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Climate taxes on agriculture could lead to more food insecurity than climate change itself

A new IIASA-led research suggests that climate mitigation schemes in agriculture could lead to more widespread hunger and food insecurity than the direct impacts of climate change. The study highlights the need for smarter, inclusive policies that prioritize development goals alongside emissions reduction.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 30, 2018

Farm size and agricultural chemical use in China

Increasing farm size in China is associated with lower fertilizer and pesticide use per hectare, yet yields remain relatively stable. Removing policies constraining land-use rights could significantly reduce chemical usage while doubling farmers' incomes.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2018
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.

Quality of diet still poor for SNAP participants

A new study finds persistent disparities in diet quality for SNAP recipients, with lower consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fish/shellfish. Despite some improvements over time, SNAP participants still have the lowest diet quality compared to income-eligible nonparticipants and higher-income individuals.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 15, 2018

Policy driver of soil organic carbon accumulation in Chinese croplands identified

Chinese croplands experienced drastic changes in management practices since the 1980s, leading to increased soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation. The study found that economics and policy-driven organic inputs dominated SOC sequestration, particularly through crop straw/stover return policies.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2018

How wind turbines annoy residents and how to reduce it

A recent study by MLU psychologists found that nearly a third of residents near wind farms experience little to no annoyance from the noise, while one in ten suffer from stress symptoms. The researchers recommend proactive addressing residents' concerns during planning phases and providing early information campaigns.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalEnergy Policy·DateJan 24, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Conservation spending predicts rise and fall of global biodiversity

Research finds that increased conservation spending is effective in reducing biodiversity loss, with countries like Brazil experiencing fewer threats and Chile facing more. A new measurement assigns percentage of responsibility to protect threatened species based on their range within a country.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNature·DateOct 25, 2017

The Lancet: Highly hazardous pesticides: Bans not secure storage

A randomized trial in Sri Lanka found that secure storage of pesticides had no impact on rates of self-poisoning or suicide. A review of global policies concluded that bans are the most effective way to reduce pesticide-related suicides. Secure storage is not a sufficient solution to this public health problem.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 11, 2017
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.

Larger swaths of tropical forest being lost to commercial agriculture

A Duke University study reveals that larger patches of tropical forest are being lost worldwide due to industrial-scale agricultural expansion. The trend is most pronounced in Southeast Asia and South America, where clearings for large-scale agriculture account for more than half of all observed forest loss between 2000 and 2012.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 9, 2017
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.

ESA announces 2017 graduate student policy award recipients

The Ecological Society of America recognizes six graduate students for their policy work, providing them with training and opportunities to meet policymakers. The students will learn about the legislative process and federal science funding, aiming to bridge the gap between science and policy.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateApr 3, 2017

Can the 'greening' be greener?

A study published in Conservation Letters found that the EU's Ecological Focus Areas (EFA) initiative has little benefit for biodiversity and farmers, despite being implemented since 2015. Fallow land was the only EFA option considered worthwhile by both ecologists and farmers.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalConservation Letters·DateJan 11, 2017
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.

Reseracher finds 'identity loan' common in undocumented workers

A new study by University of Colorado Denver researcher Sarah Horton challenges common portrayals of identity theft in workplaces dominated by undocumented immigrants. Many employers furnish workers with invented or borrowed work authorization documents, a practice she has termed 'identity loan'. This study highlights the active role e...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalPoLAR Political and Legal Anthropology Review·DateDec 12, 2016

Documenting the risk of invasive species worldwide

A global analysis of environmental risk from invasive alien species reveals that one sixth of the world's lands are 'highly vulnerable' to invasion. The study highlights the need for proactive policies and international cooperation to combat these threats.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Scientists call for increased federal investment in sustainable agriculture

A new analysis of federal funding for sustainable agriculture suggests significant improvements can be made with additional investments. Researchers found that only a small percentage of USDA-funded projects focused on sustainable agriculture, highlighting the need for increased public funding.

SourceElsevier·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·DateJul 28, 2016

What impact might Brexit have on UK agriculture?

UK policymakers face constraints due to WTO rules, EU accords, and regional priorities when devising a new farm policy post-Brexit. Brexit could affect the EU's agricultural policy and agri-food issues remain a major concern.

SourceWiley·JournalEuroChoices·DateJun 3, 2016
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Putting a price on nature, literally

Arizona State University researchers develop an equation to estimate monetary value of natural resources like groundwater and forests, accounting for ecosystem changes and human behavior. The framework enables valuation of natural capital on a balance sheet with traditional assets, guiding sustainable use.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2016

Agricultural policies in Africa could be harming the poorest

Research by University of East Anglia suggests that African agricultural policies aimed at alleviating poverty may be making things worse for the poorest. The 'green revolution' policies in Rwanda have been shown to strip smallholder farmers of their main productive resource, land, and exacerbate poverty.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalWorld Development·DateFeb 7, 2016
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.

Duke obesity experts in special issue on food and health

Researchers found that specific food items like potato chips, butter, and sugary drinks contribute to weight gain in children. Policy experts suggest labeling unhealthy products, changing food marketing, and increasing access to healthy options to promote healthier choices.

SourceDuke University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 2, 2015

Entrepreneurial spirit can help communities better withstand trade shock

A study by Penn State economists found that counties with higher rates of self-employment suffered fewer negative effects from increased imports. Self-employed workers are better positioned to recognize changes in the market and adapt to new opportunities, leading to stronger economic networks and growth.

SourcePenn State·JournalSmall Business Economics·DateOct 28, 2015
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.

Africa's future -- can biosciences help?

A new series of assays explores how African smallholders can meet SDG2 by using biosciences to protect crops from diseases and pests, increase yields, and promote food security. The results provide recommendations for policymakers, educationalists, and those interested in smallholder agriculture.

SourceRichard Hayhurst Associates·DateOct 15, 2015

Farmers' responses to crises key to informing effective food security policy

A recent study by Dr Shawn McGuire and Dr Louise Sperling found that farmers in developing countries do not scale back on seed production during times of stress. Instead, they adapt and access seed from various channels, including local markets, which supply more than half of all seed used by farmers. This challenges conventional appro...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·DateOct 12, 2015

Dietary guidelines for Americans shouldn't place limits on total fat intake

Researchers argue that restrictive guidelines on total fat consumption have led to unhealthy choices and neglect the importance of healthy fats like nuts, vegetable oils, and fish. They advocate for a focus on adopting a healthier food-based dietary pattern with more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJAMA·DateJun 23, 2015

Accentuate the positive when it comes to nutrition education

A new Cornell University study suggests that emphasizing the positive when it comes to nutrition education leads to healthier food choices. The study found that policies framed positively, supporting choice, are more effective than those with limitations.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJun 8, 2015
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.

Hidden costs: Emotion responses to command and control

Researchers found that creating conflict with target population can backfire, while positively framed policies support choice and lead to positive responses. The study highlights the need for policymakers to empathize with their audience and work with them rather than against them.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJun 2, 2015

UM study: Oil and gas development transforms landscapes

A recent UM study found that oil and gas development has transformed vast areas of North America's rangelands and croplands, leading to vegetation loss and fragmentation of wildlife habitats. The research estimates that over half a million acres of land are lost annually, equivalent to 120.2 million bushels of wheat.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2015

Embrace unknowns, opt for flexibility in environmental policies

Researchers at the University of Washington argue that environmental conservation requires adapting to an uncertain future. They suggest creating flexible policies with legs, supporting ecosystem diversity, investing in monitoring, expecting unexpected changes, and designing adaptive management strategies.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Chances of saving with solar energy greater for Indiana farms than homes

Farms in Indiana have a high chance of saving money by using solar energy, thanks to the ability to depreciate their investment. In contrast, homeowners face uncertainty and lower chances of saving. The analysis suggests that putting solar on a level playing field with coal power would give homes more incentive to adopt solar.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEnergy Policy·DateFeb 5, 2015

Study shows Brazil's Soy Moratorium still needed to preserve Amazon

A new study shows that Brazil's Soy Moratorium has been effective in reducing deforestation, but government policies alone are not enough. The moratorium helped drastically reduce soy expansion linked to forest clearing, whereas governmental policy alone only curbed a small portion of the issue.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateJan 22, 2015
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Research partnership is key to biodiversity conservation

A new policy paper emphasizes the importance of collaboration between scientists and policymakers for effective biodiversity conservation. The paper highlights the HCV approach's potential in protecting tropical biodiversity through sustainable land management schemes.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalConservation Letters·DateNov 3, 2014

Actions on climate change bring better health, study says

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that reducing fossil fuel consumption can lead to cleaner air, increased physical fitness, and improved public health. The analysis highlights opportunities for co-benefits between climate change mitigation and human health.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJAMA·DateSep 22, 2014
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study: World's primary forests on the brink

A new study reveals that only five percent of the world's pre-agricultural primary forest cover is found in protected areas, with most forests under threat from industrial logging, mining, and agriculture. Experts call for international policies to reduce pressure on primary forests, preserving their biodiversity and ecosystem services.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Letters·DateAug 18, 2014

Land quality and deforestation in Mato Grosso, Brazil

Research from Brown University suggests that the decline of suitable land for agriculture is a key factor in slowing deforestation in Mato Grosso, Brazil. The study found that land with characteristics such as flat terrain and proximity to roads was initially converted to agriculture, but this type of land is becoming increasingly scarce.

SourceBrown University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 9, 2014
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.

Ecosystem services: Looking forward to mid-century

Researchers model future land-use change in the US and propose incentive structures for landowners to provide ecosystem services. The work aims to strike a balance between human needs and natural systems, with tradeoffs identified for every policy.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 29, 2014

How Brazilian cattle ranching policies can reduce deforestation

A new study finds that supporting sustainable cattle ranching practices in Brazil could significantly reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. By subsidizing productive land use and taxing unsustainable practices, Brazil could halve its deforestation rate and shave off 25% of global emissions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014

Incentives needed to improve grain markets in India

Researchers found that grain farmers in India face regulatory barriers and lack of incentives to invest in on-farm storage, hindering market integration. Small innovations can encourage independent traders to enter the market, benefiting farmers with access to better prices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 18, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.