A study by IIASA researchers and Chinese colleagues highlights the need for sustainable food production in China to avoid environmental destruction. The global impact of China's increasing food demand is expected to be substantial, with significant challenges facing trading partners, particularly those involved in livestock products.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 18, 2021
A new paper from University of British Columbia expert Dr. Mary O'Connor emphasizes the need to consider feedbacks in biodiversity research and policy making to mitigate negative consequences for humans. The authors propose building national and global biodiversity observatories to monitor ecosystems and human activities, enabling data...
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 14, 2021
A study in Nature Communications finds that strong El Niño events can drive nearly 6 million children into undernutrition, affecting 70% or more of children globally. Proactive climate action could prevent this tragedy by providing targeted interventions to vulnerable areas.
SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A study by Brazilian researchers warns of extreme heat risks in northern Brazil due to savannization and climate change, posing a threat to human health and productivity. Approximately 12 million people may be exposed to extreme risk of heat stress by 2100, with severe economic implications.
SourceFiocruz Piauí·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateOct 1, 2021
A new report by International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) suggests that accelerated adaptation can substantially reduce Egypt’s food production losses from climate change. Climate change-induced biophysical crop stress could lead to a 10% reduction in food crop yields by 2050, but investing in agricultural research and devel...
SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2021
The Sustainable Agriculture Matrix provides a comprehensive assessment of agricultural sustainability at a national level, considering environmental, economic, and social impacts. The framework helps governments and organizations evaluate progress, identify priorities for improvement, and inform policies towards sustainable agriculture.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalOne Earth·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 17, 2021
The study found that policies promoting comprehensive nitrogen mitigation options could alleviate hunger by 590 million people by 2050. Increasing nitrogen use efficiency in agronomic practices is the most effective strategy to reduce undernourishment while respecting regional nitrogen boundaries.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Food·DateSep 13, 2021
A new five-year research project led by Thomas Neeson aims to model the impacts of conservation incentives on farmers in the Red River basin. The study will help understand how voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs can be effectively designed to promote sustainable water use.
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Analysis shows US workers in weather-exposed industries work fewer hours on hot days during economic growth, but not during recession. The study predicts $80 billion in lost wages by 2090 due to high-heat labor conditions.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 25, 2021
Researchers propose new statistical approaches to estimate climate change impacts on US agriculture, focusing on county-level analysis. They suggest that current grouping methods can lead to inaccurate results and recommend using C-Lasso, causal forest algorithm, and geographically weighted regressions.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalClimatic Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 20, 2021
A new study reveals significant differences in forest recovery rates across Amazonian countries, with some experiencing little to no recovery even 20 years after deforestation. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to protect and restore remaining forests.
SourceBangor University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2021
The EU project TUdi aims to develop and disseminate soil healing strategies in three major agricultural systems across Europe, China, and New Zealand. By adopting healthy and productive agricultural ecosystems, the project hopes to achieve significant improvements in food security and reduce environmental degradation.
The AGRIMODELS Cluster is exhibiting the latest data, tools and models needed for evaluating policy impacts on farm, regional, national and global levels. The cluster aims to improve agricultural policy modeling through projects BESTMAP, MIND STEP, and AGRICORE.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
China's community seedbanks are conserving agricultural biodiversity by protecting crop varieties, improving farmer livelihoods, and increasing food security. These seedbanks also promote climate resilience through their focus on local environmental conditions.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateJul 6, 2021
A new study found that people blame wild animal trade or government preparation for epidemic outbreaks instead of animal agriculture and global meat consumption. The research highlights the critical need to understand the causes and risks posed by animal agriculture in preventing future pandemics and zoonotic diseases.
Researchers propose policies that provide assistance to farmers in poorest regions could reduce poverty while increasing environmentally friendly practices. Mobile technology improves access to these resources, helping local governments identify individuals seeking alternative livelihoods.
SourceBoston University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 8, 2021
Research in Tanzania shows that women farmers face social structural barriers and discriminatory land rights, limiting their ability to increase crop yields. Access to improved seeds, knowledge, and decision-making is key to closing the gender yield gap.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalSustainability·DateMar 30, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A new analysis found that California's stringent diesel emissions standards have lowered the expected number of deaths linked to diesel exhaust by 50%. The study also suggests that adopting similar rules nationwide could produce similar benefits, particularly for communities that have suffered the worst impacts of air pollution.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021
A sector-based approach to regulations has reduced diesel particulate matter (DPM) emissions in California by 78%, outperforming the US average of 51%. The analysis suggests that adopting similar policies could help reduce DPM emissions nationwide, improving public health.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021
Adequate birth spacing may help alleviate stunting in Indian children, according to a Cornell University study. The study found that when children are born at least three years after their older siblings, the height gap between them disappears.
SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers will use a combination of data from scientific monitoring, citizen scientists, and high-tech sensors to assess UK insect abundance and diversity. The project aims to provide definitive evidence on whether insects are declining overall and inform environmental policies to protect them.
Researchers found that commitments at UN level were rarely translated into national law, leading to implementation gaps and insufficient monitoring. The authors suggest strengthening financial resources, introducing new instruments, and establishing a mechanism to verify compliance with biodiversity targets.
SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 26, 2021
A landmark agreement, the Amazon Soy Moratorium, has prevented thousands of square kilometers of deforestation over its first decade, with no negative impact on agricultural growth. The policy's success can be attributed to cooperation among private companies, NGOs, and government agencies.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Food·DateDec 14, 2020
A new study from the University of Illinois found that hiring foreign-educated registered nurses does not displace U.S.-educated nurses and may even boost wages for highly educated natives. The research analyzed data from 1980-2015 and covered every commuting zone in the US, including rural areas.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalIZA Journal of Labor Policy·DateDec 3, 2020
The AGRIMODELS Cluster brings together three European projects aiming to improve agricultural policy-making by developing synergies among complementary approaches. The projects will create a modular and customisable toolset for flexible use, addressing key challenges such as food and water security, carbon storage, and biodiversity.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
A recent study published in Nature Food found that countries have a significant impact on nitrogen pollution, often multiple times greater than their effect on crop yields. Countries can curb fertiliser use without compromising yield by adjusting institutions, economic development, population size, and farm production processes.
A recent meta-analysis of 5,188 studies reveals that crop diversification enhances ecosystem services while maintaining or improving crop yields. This 'win-win' result has significant implications for agriculture and the environment.
SourceIowa State University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 10, 2020
The report assesses soil biodiversity across the globe, highlighting its decline and impact on ecosystem services such as water cycle regulation and carbon sequestration. The study provides a comprehensive framework for managing soil health, which is crucial for maintaining agricultural productivity and mitigating climate change.
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A new study shows that clean air is achievable globally with policy interventions in multiple sectors, including environmental policies, energy and climate policies, and agricultural production system transformation. The required measures would also contribute to sustainable development and human development goals.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateSep 29, 2020
A three-year research project funded by the USDA aims to analyze consumer preferences for US beef and estimate demand in select countries. The study will provide insights on economic implications of trade policies and strengthen the US beef export market.
SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateSep 4, 2020
A unique study reveals that EU agricultural subsidies flow to intensively farmed regions causing environmental damage, while poorer regions are underfunded. The Common Agricultural Policy's €54 billion annual budget is concentrated in the hands of only 20% of farmers.
Researchers find that a combination of subsidies, weather experience, and financial literacy leads to long-term insurance uptake. Subsidies alone have limited effect without financial education and actual payout experience.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateJul 29, 2020
Researchers argue that one-sided narratives shape the dichotomy between state-led and market-led approaches to promote agricultural development. A combination of state-led initiatives, donor-funded or market-led approaches, and input subsidy programs can work if there is evidence-based policy learning between both camps.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalWorld Development·DateJul 13, 2020
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A global analysis reveals a significant gap between scientific knowledge and policy responses to nitrogen pollution. Agricultural sectors dominate policies that incentivize nitrogen use, while few aim to reduce pollution.
SourceNew York University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 6, 2020
A recent study published in Climate and Atmospheric Science reveals that half of the world's population is exposed to increasing air pollution. The research highlights that air pollution constitutes a major threat to public health, with an estimated four million deaths annually attributed to outdoor air pollution.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateJun 17, 2020
A study from the University of Illinois found that reducing speed limits in São Paulo, Brazil, dramatically reduced fatal accidents and increased travel times only minimally. The policy resulted in an estimated 1,889 averted accidents and 104 averted fatalities, with 86% of benefits going to low-income residents.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Public Economics·DateJun 11, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
New Cornell research found a link between exposure to TV alcohol ads and drinking behavior, with higher ad exposure correlating to more drinks consumed. The study estimated that nearly 55,000 adults were exposed to over 576 alcohol ads per year.
A study by Michigan State University examines the complex relationships between small-scale fishing activities, including pre- and post-harvest interactions, to understand the impact on fishers' livelihoods. The research highlights the importance of trust and collaborative relationships in shaping these dynamics.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 23, 2020
Researchers propose a two-step process to develop a more sustainable land management system: designing a framework with digital agriculture technologies and implementing policies that support farmers. The study suggests targeted tax incentives and subsidies can help drive policy change and reduce environmental impacts.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 22, 2020
Researchers found that higher tariffs had a small correlation with decreased invasive pest findings, but this impact was not sensitive enough to be a good tactic. Revoking duty-free status on fruits and vegetables is the only way to achieve measurable impact in pest reduction through tariffs.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateApr 16, 2020
A survey of over 1,000 German consumers found broad support for nutritional policy action, despite initial concerns about social acceptance. Key findings indicate that people's opinions on food policies are not tied to individual dietary struggles, with those who eat a healthy diet also being in favor of regulation.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNutrients·DateMar 11, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
EU Common Agricultural Policy is set to be revised, with over 3,600 researchers urging that scientific data be taken into consideration. The position paper proposes ten measures to improve the policy, including adequate funds for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and effective protection of natural habitats.
SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalPeople and Nature·DateMar 9, 2020
A new study from University of Illinois found that China's tariff quota administration significantly affected US grain exports, particularly for wheat. Wheat imports from the US could have been $324 million or 83% higher without restrictive policies.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural Economics·DateJan 23, 2020
Higher-density development with more impervious surfaces causes runoff, leading to increased water pollution. Agriculture also contributes significantly to water pollution, and anti-sprawl policies can prevent much-needed land-use changes that reduce pollution.
SourcePenn State·JournalResource and Energy Economics·DateJan 16, 2020
A new study from the University of Illinois found that affirmative action policies increased enrollment of underrepresented students in Brazilian universities. The policies, which included quota systems based on racial or socio-economic criteria, resulted in significant increases in enrollment of black and mixed-race students, as well ...
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEconomics of Education Review·DateJan 8, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A four-year study found that immigration deportation worries double the risk of developing high blood pressure in Mexican-born women, highlighting potential negative impacts on cardiovascular health. The study suggests considering immigration policies' effects on stress levels and subsequent blood pressure outcomes.
Researchers evaluated the accuracy of a commonly used numerical model in hydrology, finding that its results can be difficult to interpret correctly even when properly calibrated. The study recommends using a combination model called SWATmf to improve representation of hydrologic systems.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateOct 11, 2019
The BESTMAP project aims to develop a new flexible and interoperable framework to monitor EU policy impacts on natural, social, and cultural assets in rural areas. Computer models will help build an operational framework to analyze the adoption of agri-environmental schemes.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A UK report outlines a vision for managing land and seas after Brexit, prioritizing environmental protection and employment opportunities. The report recommends an 'ecosystem-based' approach to agriculture and fishing policies, with a focus on sustainable practices and public goods.
SourceUniversity of York·JournalPeople and Nature·DateSep 24, 2019
A new study suggests that acting on climate change will cost less than the damage inflicted by inaction. The research warns of catastrophic consequences if efforts are not accelerated to reduce global warming. Experts emphasize the urgency of addressing climate change.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalScience·DateSep 19, 2019
Adverse mental health outcomes, including anxiety and poor sleep scores, were associated with concerns over US immigration policy among Latinx adolescents. High scores on an assessment tool indicating worries about immigration policy were also linked to adverse outcomes.
The ESMERALDA project has generated research insights and practical solutions on ecosystem service mapping and assessment. The open science collection shares tested methods, collected datasets, and case study experience directly applicable to practical situations.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalOne Ecosystem·DateJun 3, 2019
Researchers found that rural-specific resources are not widely used in introducing innovation, but migrants who use pre-existing contacts and build on previous life experiences are most innovative. Policies should support diversification and acknowledge differences within rural communities.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalRegional Studies·DateMay 8, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
A new study concludes that EU's restrictive regulation of GMO crops cannot be justified, even considering risks to the environment. The researchers argue that GMO crops can be consistent with organic farming principles and should not be treated differently from conventional products.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Humanities·JournalTransgenic Research·DateApr 24, 2019
A University of Illinois study using machine learning confirms that farmer cooperatives directly benefit both forest health and farmers, unlike state-managed forests. The algorithm evaluated over 200 forest management regions in Kangra, India, covering a 14-year period.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 13, 2019
A study by researchers at Rice University shows that well-designed policy can support the use of biochar to enhance agricultural productivity, sequester carbon, and preserve valuable soil. The federal government has existing programs that promote biochar adoption, but more investment is needed in large-scale production.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A new study led by Yale University finds that school-based nutritional programs limit increases in body mass index (BMI) among middle school students. Students in schools with enhanced nutrition policies and programs reported healthier behaviors and had lower BMI trajectories compared to those without such support.
SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018
A special issue of the Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development explores local governments' engagement in food system planning. Key findings include varying levels of government involvement and the need for measuring progress or failure to identify successes and jettison failed policies.
UTIA Chancellor Tim Cross has been recognized for his exceptional service as an Extension educator and leader. He received the 2018 Distinguished Service Ruby Award from Epsilon Sigma Phi, honoring his contributions to Extension and outreach work.
SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateOct 3, 2018
Agricultural irrigation accounts for 70% of water use in some regions, and increased efficiency can lead to more water extraction, not less. Higher irrigation efficiency may even increase on-farm water use and groundwater extraction, argues a recent study by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018