Geography
Articles tagged with Geography
Bigger and wetter storms mean drier conditions over time
Antarctica sea ice collapse driven by triple whammy of climate chaos, scientists find
A new study reveals Antarctica's sea ice collapse is driven by a triple whammy of climate chaos, resulting in record-breaking lows. The Southern Ocean's transformation led to the loss of vast areas of ice equivalent to Greenland, destabilizing global ocean currents and accelerating global warming.
[Research Article] A tool for crop phenology metrics analysis from big Earth observation data
Polluted air harms hearts more in individuals with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome
A new study published in The Innovation Medicine found that long-term exposure to air pollution significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. Exposure to fine particulate matter and cooking fuel was linked to a higher risk of CVD.
Location, location, location: How the Nile helped an ancient Sudanese city thrive for centuries
The University of Michigan study reveals that Napata, an ancient city in Sudan, benefited from the Nile's relatively stable flow and deposits of clay and silt. This landscape feature reduced flood risk while maintaining access to water, allowing for successful settlement and cultural development.
New global model reveals how biochar can boost climate-smart agriculture
A new study uses a process-based model to predict biochar's effectiveness in various agricultural systems worldwide. The research highlights that biochar can improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but its benefits vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and management practices.
Sinking land drives coastal flood risk on densely populated Java Island
A new study reveals that subsidence is a major driver of coastal flooding along Java Island, with rates of up to 15 centimeters per year. Groundwater withdrawal and agricultural water use are identified as key culprits, highlighting the need for active monitoring and mitigation.
AI uncovers two decades of evolution in China’s hydrological research: a novel large language model approach
A team of researchers used AI to analyze 289,513 global publications and isolated 4,177 highly relevant studies on China's major basins. The study highlights crucial milestones in Chinese hydrology and aims to guide future research priorities and sustainable water resource strategies worldwide.
[Research Article] CA-MTransUNet: Cloud-aware mixture-of-experts linear transformer U-Net for forest burned area (FBA) mapping using Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 images
The CA-MTransU-Net architecture achieves superior mIoU of 87.00% and faster inference speeds compared to benchmark algorithms, providing a scalable solution for post-fire damage assessment in cloud-prone landscapes.
FAU study finds parasites defy biodiversity rules, thriving far from the equator
Researchers found that trematode parasites are more abundant in cooler temperate waters, defying the typical pattern of higher biodiversity near the equator. Temperature and host mobility play a major role in shaping parasite distributions, with certain species thriving in areas where hosts can tolerate infections better.
Using ‘imaginative’ AI to survey past and future earthquake damage
Researchers developed an AI model to create highly photorealistic 3D reconstructions of ground-level damage after earthquakes. The LoRA-Enhanced Ground-view Generation diffusion model can recognize complex visual patterns and predict where structures may be damaged, even in densely populated urban areas.
Carbonsphere launches for carbon science and net-zero solutions
Carbonsphere is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to carbon science, technology, and policy. The journal aims to foster evidence, tools, and solutions for a just and sustainable net-zero future by linking natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Schwartzman part of team awarded $1 million Sloan Foundation grant
A $1 million Sloan Foundation grant will track and monitor data center development in Tennessee, Georgia, and Virginia, exploring its impact on rural communities. The research aims to understand how different policies and regulations shape data center development and its effects on communities.
Global greening: The Earth’s green wave is shifting
A team of researchers has developed a novel method to track the Earth's greenness by calculating its centre of mass. They found that the 'green centre' oscillates between northernmost positions in mid-July and southernmost positions off the coast of Liberia in March, with a consistent northward shift across all seasons.
Rising simultaneous wildfire risk compromises international firefighting efforts
Scientists warn that synchronised extreme fire weather, characterized by warm and dry conditions, has increased worldwide since 1979, straining international firefighting cooperation. The number of high-risk days with simultaneous fires is more than doubling, making wildfires harder to tackle and increasing air quality issues.
ASU researchers to lead AAAS panel on water insecurity in the United States
Growing evidence shows water insecurity is an increasing challenge in the US and other high-income countries. Rural areas face unreliable access to safe and affordable water due to aging infrastructure, lack of maintenance, and extreme weather events.
The extent of drought areas shapes public response
A study analyzing news reports, social media posts, and internet search data during the 2022-2023 South Korea drought found that public views change depending on problem size and distance from people. Public interest, emotions, and behavior also shifted as the disaster scale changed.
‘Energy efficiency’ key to mountain birds adapting to changing environmental conditions
Researchers found that many birds don't strictly follow their supposed temperature adaptations, instead moving to efficiently acquire and use energy. This 'energy efficiency' hypothesis suggests that altitudinal migration is a behavioral mechanism allowing birds to optimize their energy budgets in the face of seasonality and competition.
Call for papers: 10th anniversary special issue of Big Earth Data
The Big Earth Data journal is launching a special issue to reflect on its decade-long impact and showcase cutting-edge advancements in big data research. The journal focuses on Earth-related big data, emerging as a flagship platform at the intersection of Earth science, space science, information science, and sustainability science.
Research Article | Evaluation of ten satellite-based and reanalysis precipitation datasets on a daily basis for Czechia (2001–2021)
A new study evaluates the accuracy of ten satellite-based and reanalysis precipitation datasets using in-situ rain gauge measurements across Czechia from 2001 to 2021. The GSMaP dataset showed superior performance for rainy days, while ERA5-Land overestimated annual precipitation by 15–35%.
Scientists solve 66 million-year-old mystery of how Earth’s greenhouse age ended
Researchers discovered that a significant drop in calcium levels in the ocean led to a massive decrease in carbon dioxide, driving global cooling and ending the planet's greenhouse era. The study suggests that changes in seawater chemistry played a key role in shaping climate history.
Safeguarding the Winter Olympics-Paralympics against climate change
Researchers recommend shifting Olympic and Paralympic Games to earlier dates to protect fairness and safety for athletes. Snowmaking is also seen as a crucial adaptation strategy to ensure the viability of snow sports.
Large parts of the tropics overlooked in environmental research
A comprehensive study from Umeå University reveals that humid lowland forest ecosystems receive disproportionate attention, while colder and drier regions are severely underrepresented. This imbalance can lead to policy decisions based on incomplete or misleading science, affecting climate-vulnerable ecosystems.
Major river deltas are sinking faster than sea-level rise
A recent study found that nearly every major river delta is experiencing subsidence, with at least some portion sinking faster than the sea level in 18 of the 40 deltas examined. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to the lives of over 236 million people, particularly in regions such as the Mekong and Nile river systems.
Scientists discover how fast the world’s deltas are sinking
New research reveals that land subsidence caused by humans is the main culprit behind delta sinking, posing increased flooding risk to 236 million people. The study identifies groundwater extraction as the dominant cause of subsidence, highlighting the need for urgent local interventions.
Study models the transition from Neanderthals to modern humans in Europe
The study uses a numerical model to simulate encounters between Neanderthals and modern humans on the Iberian Peninsula. Climate fluctuations significantly influenced population dynamics, with mixing possible in certain regions. The research offers a broader explanatory framework for interpreting archaeological and genomic data.
Southeast Asia’s greenhouse gas emissions demand urgent regional action
A new study reveals that Southeast Asia is a significant source of climate-warming gases, with deforestation and fossil fuel use leading the way. The region's natural carbon sinks are being overwhelmed, making it challenging for countries to reach climate neutrality without urgent regional action.
Hidden patterns of isolation and segregation found in all American cities
A comprehensive analysis of 383 US cities found common patterns of isolation and segregation, with wealthy suburban areas and poorer downtown zones often having limited interactions between residents. Researchers recommend zoning incentives and strategic development to encourage greater diversity and social mixing.
Risk to Amazon rainforest from land use and climate change
A new study estimates that the Amazon rainforest could lose up to 38% of its area by the end of the 21st century due to land use changes and climate change. The research, published in PNAS, suggests that abrupt transitions from dense forest coverage to savannah-like landscapes pose a significant risk to the ecosystem.
Lucrative ERC grants for five LMU researchers
Five LMU researchers have been awarded Consolidator Grants by the European Research Council to tackle various research challenges. Professor Sophia Stoecklein's project CONNECT aims to develop a functional connectivity MRI tool for cancer diagnostics, while Professor Matthias Garschagen's GOALT project focuses on establishing a theoret...
Over half of global coastal settlements are retreating inland due to intensifying climate risks
Over half of global coastal settlements have retreated from the coast over the past 30 years in response to intensifying climate hazards. Coastal regions in Africa and Oceania lead the retreat, while poorer regions often expand shoreline settlements due to economic needs.
Cities around the world must plan more explicitly to reach UN goals on inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability, new research reveals
A new report from the University of Liverpool highlights the uneven progress toward achieving UN SDG11, a goal to make cities more inclusive, safe, and sustainable. To meet this goal by 2030, planners must translate global awareness into local action.
Sand mining threatens the future of critical SE Asian ecosystem
The study found that sand mining in the Mekong River is causing a decline in the reverse flow system that feeds water into Tonlé Sap Lake. The lake is home to 885 species and provides livelihoods for almost two million fishers, but its future is at risk due to the increased extraction rates.
Heat- and cold-related mortality burden in the US from 2000 to 2020
Heat- and cold-related mortality burden in the US increased significantly between 2000 and 2020, with temperature extremes contributing to excess deaths. The study found that geographic location, cause of death, and demographic factors played a crucial role in differential vulnerability to temperature-related health risks.
Tulane researchers uncover why breaking up is hard for some continents
Tulane researchers discovered that an area of the African tectonic plate, previously thought to be weak, is now resisting deformation due to dehydration 80 million years ago. This process strengthened the plate and made it more resistant to future breakup.
Assessment of heavy metal pollution in an urbanized waterway of the Pearl River Delta, China
Research reveals heavy metal concentrations were higher than global averages, especially for Zinc, Chromium, and Nickel, posing ecological risks in the region's waters and sediments. Cadmium was found to be a significant contributor to sediment pollution, with an 'extremely high' potential ecological risk index.
New study reveals fastest Antarctic glacier retreat in modern history
A landmark study by Swansea University reveals the Hektoria Glacier lost nearly half its length in two months during 2023, a pace similar to the end of the last ice age. The rapid retreat was boosted by the shape of the land beneath it, leading scientists to identify vulnerable glaciers and prioritize their monitoring.
How people process mental images versus real-life visuals
Researchers found that brain mechanisms for spatial attention differ when processing mental images from memory versus visuals on a screen. When recalling imagery, frontal areas are more active, suggesting distinct mechanisms for spatial attention in mental imaging.
Study: Plant functional diversity varies greatly
Plant functional diversity varies greatly depending on seasonal cycles and wet-dry periods, according to a new study that analyzed 4,000 satellite images. The researchers used AI algorithms to derive plant traits from the images and calculated quantitative measures of functional diversity.
Research unearths origins of Ancient Egypt’s Karnak Temple
The study establishes the earliest occupation at Karnak as around 2520 BCE, coinciding with the Old Kingdom period. Researchers also found a link between the temple's location and an Ancient Egyptian creation myth, where the high ground on which Karnak was built may have been seen as a manifestation of the creator god Ra-Amun.
Yang receives funding for welfare and poverty mapping project
George Mason University's Ruixin Yang receives $15,000 funding from the International Food Policy Research Institute to develop a welfare and poverty mapping project utilizing satellite-derived data. The project will provide technical support to the spatial analytics team and strengthen geospatial research outputs.
WMO report on global water resources: 2024 was characterized by both extreme drought and intense rainfall
The WMO report reveals that 2024 was marked by severe drought in the Amazon basin and Southern Africa, while Central Europe experienced excessive rainfall, leading to devastating floods. Glaciers globally lost 450 billion metric tons of ice, accelerating climate change impacts.
Lake Michigan study shows increase in structures to combat rising water levels
A study found that Lake Michigan shoreline armoring has increased fivefold in response to high-water levels, posing threats to coastal ecosystems. The increase in structures like seawalls and groins raises concerns about their long-term effects on the environment.
Targeted snow monitoring at hotspots outperforms basin-wide surveys in predicting water supply
Researchers found that targeted snow monitoring at hotspots can improve water supply predictions in most basins, with typical gains of 11-14% compared to 4%. This approach is more cost-effective than basin-wide surveys and has potential for more accurate forecasts.
Effective urban planning from real-world population tracking
A new approach to urban delineation uses human behavioral patterns to determine urban areas and land use. The study analyzed Points of Interest data using Kernel Density Estimation and identified five hotspots of urban activity in Pekanbaru, revealing that traditional methods often obscure the true dynamics of urban life.
New Reichman University study: bacteria survive dust storms and introduce new genetic traits into our air
A new study reveals bacteria can survive inside dust particles transported through desert storms, carrying new genes that may affect human health. The research team identified a beneficial bacterium from the Bacillus subtilis family, which could enhance applications in agriculture, construction, and medicine.
We must develop thinkers, not crammers and fact experts
A Norwegian University of Science and Technology expert analyzes national curricula for geography in upper secondary school, revealing shortcomings in teaching geographical thinking and place concepts. The study emphasizes the importance of connecting topics within nature and society, enabling students to analyze world situations and i...
Rising temperatures intensify "supercell thunderstorms" in Europe
A new study published in Science Advances predicts a significant increase in supercell thunderstorms across Europe, with the Alpine region and northern side of the Alps expected to see up to 50% more storms. The simulations show that temperature increases of 3 degrees Celsius will concentrate these storms in the region.
Nature experiences bring depth and meaning to life
A new Finnish study reveals that nature experiences play a significant role in people's long-term well-being, particularly in boosting self-acceptance and purpose in life. The research found that younger and older participants alike valued the sense of connection with nature, which helped them tap into their own values and agency.
‘Peak water security’ crisis, Texas A&M researcher warns
Researchers warn of declining access to safe and reliable water in the US, urging better tracking tools and policy reforms. A new tool, Household Water Insecurity Experiences (HWISE), measures water insecurity in over 1,000 households across the country.
Land use severely reduces global carbon in plants and soils
A new study reveals that human influence has reduced global natural land carbon stocks by 24%, equivalent to 344 billion metric tons of carbon, mainly due to expanded pasture and croplands, as well as forest management.
Findings show NT’s vital water source is drying – and it can be seen from space
A critical water source for the Northern Territory is experiencing significant losses since 2014, with groundwater levels reaching their lowest recorded storage level in 2021. The study, published in Ecological Informatics, uses satellite data to track groundwater depletion and highlights the need for improved water regulation.
Impact of the MISSION act on quality and outcomes of major cardiovascular procedures among veterans
The MISSION Act implementation led to significant decreases in travel times for eligible veterans seeking non-VA care. However, this shift was linked to a rise in major adverse cardiovascular events within 30 days of procedures like percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting.
Huge hidden flood bursts through the Greenland ice sheet surface
Researchers discovered an 85m-deep crater and 90 million cubic metres of water flooded out of a subglacial lake, fracturing the ice above and creating a massive flood. The study highlights the need to better understand how often subglacial lakes drain and their impact on the surrounding ice sheet.
Time machine in drones? – Photorealistic depiction of the Great Hungarian Plain before water regulations
A new tool helps understand original landscape functioning and supports current land use strategies by generating realistic drone footage of past landscapes. The study uses AI to create photorealistic depictions of the Great Hungarian Plain before water regulations.
Newly discovered remains of ancient river landscapes control ice flow in East Antarctica
Researchers have found extensive, previously unmapped flat surfaces beneath a 3,500 km stretch of the East Antarctic coastline, which were formed by large rivers after East Antarctica and Australia broke apart. These surfaces may currently be regulating the rate of ice loss from the East Antarctic Ice Sheet.
Scientists warn of urgent need to tackle changes impacting river deltas
A new framework identifies key causes of changes affecting river deltas, including climate change, sea level rise, and human activities. The framework provides a basis for prioritizing timely, locally grounded action to address the complex challenges facing these critical ecosystems.
Cities at the climate crossroads: Can growth be sustainable?
A new study from ICTA-UAB reveals that urban growth can be unsustainable if not managed carefully, with environmental consequences including increased consumption and emissions. The research provides a comparative framework for understanding different approaches to urban growth, highlighting the need for evidence-based solutions.
Where there’s fire, there’s smoke
A new online platform, SMRT-Flames, estimates the health impacts of wildfire smoke and provides fire managers with tools to assess potential smoke exposure. The app uses a Harvard-developed computer model to predict how fires would behave across regions and how smoke would pool and disperse.