Environmental Issues

Bigger and wetter storms mean drier conditions over time

Does agriculture and climate affect feeding activities of soil animals?

Renewable energy is more cost effective than direct air capture at reducing carbon, new study finds

A new study published in Communications Sustainability reveals that investing in renewable energy yields more combined climate and public health benefits than direct air capture. The analysis models the health and climate benefit of cost-equivalent deployments of DAC, solar, and onshore wind across US grid regions from 2020 to 2050.

Salmon becoming river ‘ghosts’ due to deadly droughts and violent floods

A study by University of Essex and NOAA Fisheries reveals that young Californian Chinook salmon are struggling due to extreme weather and habitat destruction. The research found that juvenile salmon thrive in wet conditions but face high mortality rates during winter storms, leading to 'river ghosts' dying unseen

Significant rise in valley fever cases in El Paso linked to extreme weather, dust, UTEP study finds

Researchers at UTEP found strong connections between Valley fever and extreme weather, wind, and airborne dust, with the disease risk anticipated based on environmental signals. The study identified seasonal patterns, with peak cases in summer months.

Scientists explore whether plastic particles could be linked to significant rises in liver disease

Researchers investigate whether micro- and nanoplastics contribute to liver disease through oxidative stress, fibrogenesis, and inflammation. They emphasize the need for increased research into plastic-induced liver injury and its potential impact on human health.

Mapping microplastic movement in rivers and streams across Pennsylvania

A recent study investigated microplastic movement in freshwater ecosystems across Pennsylvania, finding that watersheds with higher population densities and adjacent wastewater treatment plants had higher concentrations of microplastics. The research also revealed local features, such as forests and rural areas, play a critical role in...

Frontiers in Science Deep Dive webinar series: Halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 critical to avoid disastrous effects on human well-being

A global paradigm shift is needed to protect intact ecosystems and prioritize Nature Positive framework, integrating Indigenous knowledge and finance. The webinar series on May 28, 2026, will explore effective actions for people and nature, guided by the Three Conditions Framework.

Why do some people act on climate change while others stay silent?

The study found three distinct types of climate supporters: activists, anxious individuals who want to help but struggle with motivation, and hierarchy enhancers who use radical tactics for competitive reasons. Understanding these differences can inform effective communication strategies for climate movements.

Hurricane-resilient coastal forests in the Northeastern U.S. may be nearing their limits

Researchers found a significant reduction in tree-ring growth after major hurricanes, but these trees can recover quickly within two years. Coastal forests in the Northeastern US are vulnerable to sea-level rise and stand dead or dying trees, posing a threat to densely populated communities.

Street green space can help cool cities, but it will not be enough on its own

A new study reveals that street greenery can reduce heat stress in cities, but its benefits depend on local conditions. The cooling effect is stronger in tropical and continental climates, but weaker in dry and temperate climates.

Halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 critical to avoid disastrous effects on human well-being

A new paper warns that halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 is urgent to avoid destabilizing the Earth's vital systems. The authors call for a unified 'Nature Positive' approach to global environmental goals and governance.

Heat from traffic is contributing to rise in city temperatures, new study finds

A new study by the University of Manchester has developed a way to measure the impact of urban traffic on city temperatures, revealing that everyday vehicle use can raise temperatures in cities. The researchers found that traffic heat increases simulated air temperatures by around 0.16°C during summer and 0.35°C in winter.

Why doesn’t the US recycle more plastic? New study points to lack of access

A new study by the University at Buffalo reveals that unequal access to recycling facilities plays a key role in shaping plastic waste management practices in the US. Wealthier and more college-educated communities are more likely to have convenient access to large-scale industrial recycling facilities, making recycling easier and more...

Loeffler lab published in Nature Microbiology

University of Tennessee Knoxville professor Frank Loeffler and his team discovered that bacteria can covalently incorporate polyfluoroalkyl carboxylates into their membrane lipids. This finding may contribute to cleaning up environmental PFAS contamination, although final disposal is still an unsolved issue.

Children living near the Salton Sea in Southern California show slower lung function growth

A long-term study found children living near the Salton Sea have slower lung function growth, with effects comparable to freeway exposure. The researchers controlled for various factors and found that dust exposure was linked to lower lung capacity, suggesting potential long-term health implications.

How can science support and enable the High Seas Treaty?

A new study provides a solutions-focused pathway to implementing the High Seas Treaty, highlighting the need for enhanced data resources and sharing. The researchers identify major scientific and technical developments that can help address challenges in biodiversity monitoring and connectivity between areas.

Oregano, rosemary and ‘time’: Long-term swine study shows natural-compound benefits

A long-term public study found that phytochemicals from oregano and rosemary supported favorable gut health and growth performance in weaned pigs, preserving microbial diversity to improve nutrient utilization. The natural agents outperformed antibiotic growth promoters in terms of final body weight and gain-to-feed ratio.

University of Cincinnati opens state-of-the-art zebrafish research facility to study infertility

The University of Cincinnati has opened a zebrafish research facility to investigate the effects of environmental contaminants on human fertility. The lab will use zebrafish as a model organism to understand molecular mechanisms behind reproductive biology and infertility.

Climate change could make unhealthy air a routine reality by 2100

A new study predicts that nearly one in three Americans will experience poor air quality daily by 2100 due to climate change. This could lead to widespread health issues, particularly among sensitive populations like the elderly and those with asthma.

VertINGreen unveiled turning indoor green walls into smart, living systems breathing life into buildings

Researchers have developed VertINGreen, a web-based platform that transforms vertical green walls into intelligent environmental systems using remote sensing technology and machine learning. This system enables precise planning and real-time monitoring of indoor plants, reducing maintenance costs and increasing the benefits of green wa...

Reading the mud: Central Asia's rivers hold a hidden timeline of human pollution

Researchers from Beijing Normal University decode historical chemical footprint in Mongolia's Orkhon River Basin to track toxic emissions drivers. The study reveals a link between economic booms and traffic jams and chemical fallout, providing insights for rewriting water management policies across Central Asia.

The forest for the trees: Why mass planting doesn't always lock away soil carbon

A 50-year study in Kerala, India found that expanding tree plantations can result in zero net carbon gains underground. The research highlights the importance of considering the type of plantation and historical soil profile when designing climate mitigation strategies.

Study: New system aims to detect percentage of recycled plastic in plastic products

Researchers created a new method combining scientific tests and artificial intelligence to differentiate recycled plastic from new plastic. The tool, developed by University at Buffalo researchers, can analyze samples and predict the percentage of recycled content with over 97% accuracy.

Why some regions are winning the fight against groundwater depletion

Researchers found that most successful initiatives incorporated multiple intervention categories, with over 80% involving alternative water sources. Implementing policies and environmental markets were also effective strategies. The study highlights the importance of multi-pronged approaches to address declining groundwater resources.

Climate variability poses a threat to cold blooded animals

A new study reveals that ectotherms, including fish and reptiles, are unable to fine-tune their physiology to cope with daily temperature changes, leaving them vulnerable. The research suggests that these animals will rely on behavioral strategies or genetic adaptation to survive in a warmer climate.

FAU-FWC Study: Endangered smalltooth sawfish make a comeback in a historical Florida nursery

Researchers found juvenile smalltooth sawfish showing strong site fidelity to the South Fork of the Saint Lucie River, spending up to 87% of their time within a 0.4 square kilometer area. This suggests that the Indian River Lagoon is once again functioning as a nursery for this endangered species.

Glacial lakes are growing rapidly in Alaska, and research shows where growth will continue

Research shows glacial lakes in Alaska expanding 50% faster than previously recorded, posing significant hazards and altering ecosystems. The study identifies areas where lakes may form and grow, helping with infrastructure planning and predicting changes to ecosystems, hazards, and recreation.

Sustainability research overlooks key actors and actions in the face of the environmental crisis

A new study reveals major blind spots in global sustainable research, overlooking key strategies and sectors needed to address the environmental crisis. The study finds that sustainability researchers are neglecting potentially powerful actors, including civil society, and failing to assign clear responsibilities across sectors.

Climate policies are cutting carbon – new study shows

A new study by UK and EU researchers finds that countries with better-targeted climate policies cut carbon emissions significantly faster than those without. The study analyzed over 3,900 climate policies adopted since 2000 in leading economies and found that these policies avoided approximately 3 billion tonnes of CO2 in 2022 alone.

Satellite images indicate that the Doñana Marshland will disappear within 60 years

The giant fire tornado that could save our oceans

Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.

As nights warm, study flags possible prenatal link to autism risk

A new study found that warmer nighttime temperatures during pregnancy may be associated with a higher risk of autism diagnosis in children. Exposure to extreme heat during early and late pregnancy increased the risk by 15% and 13%, respectively.

New study assesses potential dust control options for Great Salt Lake

A new collaborative study evaluates potential dust control measures for the Great Salt Lake, considering effectiveness, cost, water demand, maintenance needs, and ecological impacts. The analysis emphasizes the importance of long-term planning, sustained maintenance, and careful consideration of unintended consequences.

Why melting glaciers are drawing more visitors and what that says about climate change

As glaciers shrink, they're drawing visitors for their beauty and symbolic meaning in a warming world. The study highlights both emotional responses and tensions between conservation, livelihoods, and environmental responsibility.

41 US states are warming, though each in a different way, according to a UC3M and UNIZAR study

A study by UC3M and UNIZAR reveals that most US states are warming in specific parts of their temperature distribution, even when the average warming is not statistically significant. Regional differences have varying impacts on agriculture, public health, and climate action.

KTU researcher’s study: Why Nobel Prize-level materials have yet to reach industry

A KTU researcher's study explores how Nobel Prize-winning metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can be produced reliably and consistently at an industrial scale. The analysis shows that with the right production methods, MOF manufacturing can be financially viable within a short period of time.

Restoring the web of life in farmland

The METAGROLAND project aims to improve environmental farming schemes by studying plant-pollinator interactions and land manager networks. Key findings include the development of practical guidance for agri-environmental schemes that align ecological processes with real-world management.

Forest soils increasingly extract methane from atmosphere

Researchers at the University of Göttingen found that forest soils in south-western Germany absorb more methane as climate conditions become drier and warmer. This contradicts current international meta-analyses, highlighting the importance of long-term monitoring for assessing the effects of climate change.

Chicago Botanic Garden, The Morton Arboretum pledge to safeguard threatened species for Reverse the Red Day

The Chicago Botanic Garden and The Morton Arboretum have pledged to protect endangered species such as Cucharillo and Stone's Paphiopedilum through collaborative conservation strategies. These institutions will co-host the 9th Global Botanic Gardens Congress in 2027 to accelerate crucial conservation work.

Overcoming the solubility crisis: a solvent-free method to enhance drug bioavailability

Researchers developed a solvent-free method to enhance drug bioavailability by transitioning from solid to gas phase. The sealed heating (SH) method increases drug solubility without using organic solvents.

New tool tracks cross-border pollution, revealing unequal distribution of risk, responsibility

A new study provides a tool to quantify responsibility for PM 2.5 pollution, highlighting the impact of cross-state pollution on public health. The research highlights inequality in pollution across US states, with some facing disproportionate health risks and responsibilities.

Scientists devise way to track space junk as it falls to earth

Researchers use seismic data to pinpoint the trajectory of falling debris, providing near-real-time tracking and rapid retrievals. This innovation complements radar data and can help locate potential crash sites, retrieve hazardous objects, and mitigate environmental risks.

Registrations open for São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Immigration, Environmental Violence and Colonialism

The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Immigration, Environmental Violence and Colonialism is an interdisciplinary laboratory fostering critical training and collective knowledge production. Up to 100 students will be selected for the course, which will feature internationally renowned researchers as speakers.

Farmers’ voices in European protests

A study of European farmers' protests reveals a wide range of concerns including environmental regulations, which differ between countries. Farmers in Germany criticized bureaucracy, while French farmers focused on financial pressures, Belgian farmers expressed a broad mix of concerns, and Dutch farmers voiced dissatisfaction with policy.

Hidden pollutants in shale gas development raise environmental concerns, new review finds

A new review highlights the complex mixture of emerging contaminants in shale gas waste, including persistent organic pollutants and endocrine disrupting chemicals. The study emphasizes the need for integrated management strategies to balance energy production with environmental protection.

Air pollution and cardiac remodeling and function in patients with breast cancer

Fine particulate matter and ozone exposure independently associated with poorer cardiac health outcomes in breast cancer patients treated with cardiotoxic therapy. Environmental exposure modifications are crucial to mitigate cardiovascular disease risk.

A new, cleaner way to make this common fertilizer

Researchers have developed a new way to produce ammonia, a common fertilizer, that is cleaner and more efficient than traditional methods. The process uses calcium nitride and hydrogen atoms to create ammonia without emitting carbon dioxide, and can be scaled up for widespread use.

Long-term pesticide exposure accelerates aging and shortens lifespan in fish

Research led by University of Notre Dame biologist Jason Rohr found that chronic exposure to the insecticide chlorpyrifos causes fish to age faster at the cellular level, leading to accelerated aging and reduced lifespan. The study suggests that low-level exposures can silently accumulate damage over time.

New study reveals major gaps in global forest maps

A new study from the University of Notre Dame found that satellite-derived forest maps often disagree, creating uncertainty for conservation, climate, and development policies. The discrepancies can be as high as a factor of 10, affecting millions of hectares and human lives.

Vulnerable populations shoulder larger number, higher intensity of environmental burdens

New research shows that vulnerable populations in the US are exposed to a larger number and higher intensity of environmental burdens. The study found strong relationships between concentrated environmental burdens and vulnerable communities, with communities of color and those with limited English fluency facing the greatest risks.

Clues from the past reveal the West Antarctic Ice Sheet’s vulnerability to warming

Researchers found that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet retreated at least five times during warmer periods millions of years ago, indicating its extreme vulnerability to future warming. The study analyzed deep-sea sediments and identified 14 prominent melt events between 4.65 and 3.33 million years ago.

New study guides climate modelers on partnering with Indigenous communities

A University at Buffalo researcher has developed a framework to help scientists incorporate community input into Earth system models, providing more accurate and relevant regional climate data. The framework outlines four levels of co-design, allowing modelers to incorporate local knowledge and observations directly into the model.

How intersections of race, education, and socioeconomic status may predict unequal greenspace exposure

A new study found that considering factors jointly can capture a more accurate representation of disparities in residential greenspace exposure, driven by structural racism. Exposure to trees and grass provides numerous benefits to physical and mental health, but inequities persist due to disinvestment in marginalized communities.

AMS Science Preview: Volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air

Recent research reveals that volcanic eruptions can cause unpredictable weather patterns, including volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air. The study also found that the Antarctic surface atmosphere has become less stable and more prone to gravity waves since the 1950s.

The perfect plastic? Plant-based, fully saltwater degradable, zero microplastics

Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new plant-based plastic made from cellulose that rapidly degrades in natural environments, eliminating microplastic waste. The biodegradable plastic can be adjusted in strength and flexibility with added choline chloride, providing a practical solution to ocean pollution.

Sustainability-focused companies benefit more from audit transparency

Research shows that companies with strong environmental, social, and governance track records perform better after adopting rigorous auditing standards. Investors view ESG practices as a signal of corporate quality, amplifying the benefits of transparent auditing.

Invisible indoor threats: emerging household contaminants and their growing risks to human health

A new perspective highlights emerging household contaminants that may increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, and developmental problems. The authors emphasize the need for systematic monitoring and research to inform next-generation indoor air standards.

Reciprocity matters--people were more supportive of climate policies in their country if they believed other countries were making significant efforts themselves

A survey of 4,000 Chinese, Indian, Japanese, and US citizens found that people were more supportive of climate policies in their own country if they believed other countries were also taking action. The study's findings suggest that reciprocity plays a significant role in shaping public opinions on climate policy.

Oyster larvae on drugs move slowly and are stressed

Research reveals that exposure to addictive drugs like fentanyl and ketamine affects the behavior and survival rates of oyster larvae. The study found that after two weeks of exposure, survival declined in all treatments and doses, with benzoylecgonine causing the greatest reduction.