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Quebec’s residential energy use is better explained by demographics than building age, Concordia study shows

A Concordia University study found that demographic factors such as income and household size drive energy consumption in Quebec's major urban centres. The research used meter readings and census data to reveal strong links between social characteristics and energy use, with higher-income areas and larger households consuming more energy.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateMar 31, 2026

Who benefits from neighborhood parks?

A new study found that public greenspaces are lacking in many American communities, with some groups facing significant barriers to access. The research highlights the need for more inclusive park planning and distribution to ensure equal benefits for all residents.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2025

Illinois plant ecologists fight to restore Midwest biodiversity

Researchers at the University of Illinois are working to bring back biodiversity to the Midwest by analyzing commercially sold seeds and plants. They found that long-lived species were more available than sensitive ones, and certain plant groups were over- or underrepresented in commercial seed mixes.

“Significant proportion” of world’s rural population missing from global estimates, says study

A new study from Aalto University found that global population datasets may underestimate rural populations by as much as 53% to 84%, revealing a systematic and profound extent of the bias. The findings have far-reaching consequences, suggesting that the needs of people living in rural areas have been under-represented in decision-maki...

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 18, 2025

Ridge-to-reef ecosystem census reveals hidden reservoir for microbiomes

A team of researchers at the University of Hawaii collected over 3,000 microbial samples from Waimea Valley's watershed, discovering that microbes follow the food web and are maintained within soil and stream water. The study also found that local distribution of a microbe predicts its global distribution.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2022

New study shows rundown neighborhoods not slated to go into a steep decline

A new study from the University of California Firearm Violence Research Center shows that physical disorder in Detroit doesn't lead to a steep increase in violent crime. The study's findings suggest that community-driven efforts to rebuild and remake rundown neighborhoods can be effective in reducing disorder and fear.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe British Journal of Criminology·DateAug 27, 2021