Articles tagged with Environmental Issues
A new Rice University study explores the complex relationship between self-evaluations and supportive behaviors towards environmental issues. Researchers found that individuals who experience mixed self-evaluations, including both positive self-assets and negative self-doubt, tend to exhibit less extensive issue-supportive behavior.
Researchers suggest that focusing on a country's age and history can increase citizens' confidence in its enduring future, leading to increased environmental concern. A lab-based study found that participants who viewed the US as having a longer history donated more money to an environmental organization.
This special issue of Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment brings together diverse perspectives on addressing global environmental challenges. The issue highlights socio-ecological drivers of environmental injustice, explores ways to encourage behavioral change, and emphasizes the role of religion in promoting Earth Stewardship.
Researchers found that people tend to reject damaged or imperfect recyclables, citing them as useless. To combat this, consumers and manufacturers can take steps to override these tendencies by changing packaging and product design.
Despite increased efforts by Christian leaders and organizations to promote eco-friendly values, a new study reveals that the general public's environmental concerns remain low among Christians in the US. The research surveyed over 1,400 people and found that Christians reported lower levels of pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors...
A recent study investigated public perception of how waste disposal sites affect residents living nearby, particularly odor and local pollution concerns. The study found that odour perception diminished over time as the facilities were closed, and older residents reported more concern about health impacts.
A new framework combining engineering criteria with ecological and social concerns could minimize the impacts of hydrocarbon development in the Amazon. Extended Reach Drilling and other best practice components may reduce project-related deforestation by over 75%, according to a recent study.
A new study reveals that proportions of threatened species are more closely related to socio-economic pressures from the early 20th century. This 'extinction debt' implies that current conservation efforts may underestimate true extinction risks, as many species may already be destined for extinction due to temporal delays.
A global survey reveals that environmental issues, particularly climate change, are a low priority for people in the US and around the world. In the surveys, the economy ranked highest in concern, with environmental issues ranking sixth.
A new book edited by Emilio Moran joins social and natural scientists to explore human role in addressing health challenges, managing forests and animal species. The study highlights the importance of understanding people's motivations and decisions in solving environmental problems.
A new study maps environmental stresses and ecological services in the Great Lakes, highlighting areas of high cumulative stress and potential for protection. The analysis provides a comprehensive perspective on restoration, identifying locations where multiple problems intersect and opportunities for targeted remediation.
A study from researchers at UC Berkeley suggests that reframing pro-environmental rhetoric according to values resonating with conservatives can reduce partisan polarization. The findings indicate that such approaches can increase motivation among conservatives to support environmental causes.
A Michigan State University study reveals that exposure to environmental harm increases the likelihood of environmentally-friendly behaviors among urban Chinese residents, regardless of economic status. People are more likely to act when they feel a sense of personal responsibility and can take control of their actions.
A study suggests that environmental groups can collaborate to inform the public about environmental concerns, leading to improved efficiency and targeted messaging. By leveraging existing connections and seizing strategic opportunities, organizations can build public knowledge and empowerment in environmental decision-making.
A growing field of study, ecopsychology examines the psychological, spiritual, and therapeutic aspects of human-nature relationships. It highlights various approaches to integrate psychology and environmental content in education, promoting students' appreciation for the link between their well-being and the natural world.
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation's Council of environment ministers emphasized the role of communities in building resilience to environmental changes. The ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to initiatives aimed at greenifying North America's economy and protecting its citizens' health.
The Inclusive Wealth Report 2012 proposes a new approach to sustainability by measuring natural, manufactured, human, and social forms of capital. This comprehensive index provides a more accurate picture of a country's development and well-being than traditional indicators like GDP.
The study found that cultural values associated with sustainability, such as being unselfish and prioritizing social responsibility, are linked to environmentally sustainable behaviors. The researchers observed strong correlations between these values and practices, suggesting that fostering sustainable attitudes can promote behavioral...
A study suggests that women can reduce their breast cancer risk by avoiding unnecessary medical imaging. According to the UCSF analysis of IOM report, radiation exposure from medical imaging is a known risk factor for breast cancer.
Researchers found significant health and ecosystem implications from coal-tar-based sealcoats, which release PAHs detrimental to human and ecosystem health. The study recommends avoiding coal-tar-based sealcoats in favor of asphalt-based ones or no sealcoat at all.
A new building-integrated aquaculture (BIAq) model aims to improve fish farming operations by combining building design, fish ecology, and aquaculture engineering techniques. The model aims to provide an affordable, holistic, and sustainable approach to indoor fish production, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
A special issue of Environmental Justice explores environmental justice issues in Native America, addressing governance, activism, and cultural identity. The collection of articles presents diverse concerns and views on tribal governance, modern environmental policy, and historical precedent.
The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies and WAMC Northeast Public Radio have debuted Earth Wise, a two-minute daily radio show focusing on climate change, energy, sustainable living, agriculture, and wildlife. Each segment highlights how individuals can make a positive impact.
The study highlights the human cost of biomass burning, with over 2 million premature deaths in 2005, and the environmental impact on deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. The research agenda proposes cleaner cooking fuels and technologies to improve access and adoption.
A new study found that top US companies promote sustainability on their websites to attract and retain profitable customers. The researchers assessed the environmental efforts of 500 leading companies and discovered a significant increase in sustainability programs across industries since 2008.
The proposed WEO would bring together specialized global bodies like the WTO and WHO. The organization aims to rationalize overlapping processes and make environment more integral to overall sustainability.
Professor Martin Melosi's research focuses on the historical management of water supply and sanitation systems in American cities. He argues that cities should be viewed as ecosystems with a physical, biological, and social structure, and explores the role of government in managing water resources.
Environmental anthropologist Kenny Broad and underwater photographer Wes Skiles were named Explorers of the Year for their work documenting Blue Holes in the Bahamas. Musician Jack Johnson received the Arts Ambassador for the Environment Award, while IBM was recognized for its research partnership with National Geographic.
USDA scientists recommend controlling starch buildup in sugar factories by using an intermediate-temperature stable amylase to break down unwanted starch. The solution involves adding diluted concentrated amylase solutions to factory tanks, resulting in improved product quality and reduced costs.
A virtual issue explores the long-term environmental impact of the Chernobyl disaster and its relevance to future nuclear accidents. Research reveals radiation can affect entire ecosystems, highlighting the need for better understanding and mitigation strategies.
The US EPA is collaborating with the United Nations University to develop strategies for managing electronic waste (e-waste) in Africa and Asia. The five-year agreement will support research, tracking, data collection, analysis, and information sharing to improve e-waste refurbishment and disposal.
A study by Michigan State University researcher Aaron M. McCright found that Democrats generally believe in global warming more now than they did 10 years ago, while Republicans increasingly deny its existence. The gap between these groups has increased over the past decade, hindering meaningful national energy policies.
The new journal Environmental Development aims to provide solutions to regional environmental issues through rapid assessments and integrative approaches. It bridges the gap between natural sciences, social sciences, and policy makers to foster global action and knowledge sharing.
Professor Elizabeth Canuel of VIMS has been awarded a prestigious Aldo Leopold Leadership Fellowship to enhance her skills in effective science communication. She will participate in two intensive training sessions on Capitol Hill to promote the application of scientific knowledge to address environmental issues.
Most college students fail to grasp fundamental scientific principles like the carbon cycle and conservation of matter, leading to inaccurate explanations and environmental issue ignorance. The study calls for improved teaching methods to enhance students' understanding of essential biological concepts.
A special edition of the American Chemical Society journal Environmental Science & Technology is now online, focusing on environmental policy past, present, and future. The issue includes articles on topics such as energy sustainability, biodiversity, and climate change.
A University of Gothenburg study finds that China's plastic bag charging policy reduces consumption by half, with 60% still not complying. The ordinance allows store owners to price bags and keep profits, but competition remains fierce.
Researchers found that when people believe a goal is autonomously chosen, they experience increased motivation and value, whereas imposed choices lead to decreased motivation. This study has implications for consumer behavior and marketing strategies.
A special issue of Yale's Journal of Industrial Ecology examines innovative ICT applications for energy efficiency, smart irrigation, and carbon reduction. The research assesses the environmental impacts of ICT and entertainment sectors, estimating their net environmental impact and potential for reducing carbon emissions.
A special issue of Ecopsychology explores how women's interactions with nature affect their sense of self, body image, and environmental drive. Women who spend time in natural settings tend to have better body images and distance themselves from societal beauty standards.
This special issue of Environmental Science & Technology explores key topics in environmental policy, including decimating honey bee colonies, carbon capture and storage, and biodiversity. The issue also delves into the origins of environmental issues and how scientists are addressing concerns.
China's rapid growth has led to significant environmental challenges with worldwide implications, emphasizing the need for a systems approach to tackle these issues. The country's biodiversity is threatened by extinction, and climate change requires global cooperation to develop low-emission industries.
A study by Michigan State University sociologist Aaron M. McCright found that women are more likely to believe in the scientific consensus on global warming than men. The research challenges common perceptions that men are more scientifically literate and suggests gender socialization as a possible explanation for the gender divide.
A recent article in Ecopsychology explores the catastrophic psychological responses to the BP Gulf oil spill, predicting long-lasting effects of chronic depression, withdrawal, and lack of functioning. The disaster is likely to stimulate renewed environmental activism and changes in attitudes and behaviors.
Scientists must engage non-academic audiences and tailor their message for policymakers to inform policy decisions. Effective science communication can also educate children about environmental issues through arts-based initiatives, fostering empathy and promoting collective action.
The Climate Adaptation Knowledge Exchange (CAKE) provides foundational knowledge on adaptation, new research, and innovative work from the field. The website enables scientists and practitioners to define and build the field of adaptation.
The Ecological Society of America honors seven distinguished ecologists for their outstanding contributions to the field. The awards recognize achievements in ecological research, education, and sustainability, including Simon A. Levin's Eminent Ecologist Award and Martin Lindegren's Sustainability Science Award.
Researchers discovered that human bone samples can act as a biological marker for dozens of metals and toxic elements. The study analyzed rib bones from 84 citizens in a non-industrial region in Russia, finding the presence of 44 additional elements beyond those naturally present in the body.
A University of Alberta researcher examines three social narratives that prevent people from acting on the effects of oil on the environment. These narratives, including strategic realism, eco-apocalypse, and technological utopianism, hinder effective action despite knowledge of the issue's impact.
A Stanford University study found that public opinion experts' 'most important problem' question systematically underestimates Americans' priority on global warming and the environment. When reframed, however, this question reveals a significant increase in environmental concerns.
The University of Arizona Superfund Research Program will receive $14 million to investigate metal-laden dust, water contamination and their health effects. The program aims to minimize mine dust and water leachate, stabilize arsenic residuals, and monitor pollutant distribution in air and water.
Michigan State University environmental scientist Jianguo Liu argues that China needs strong leadership and institutional innovations to achieve sustainability. He highlights the importance of integrating natural and social science research to understand complex interactions between humans and the environment.
The study reveals that plastics accumulate in garbage dumps and oceans, harming aquatic life and contaminating the food chain. Human exposure to plastic additives like BPA and phthalates is also a concern, particularly for infants, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised health.
The US liquid detergent market reached $3.1 billion in sales in 2009, driven by innovative eco-friendly products containing natural ingredients. Manufacturers are now offering specialty cleaners that reduce energy or water consumption, combining detergents with fabric softener and static reducers into single sheet-like products.
A special issue on climate justice explores the global implications of climate change on human health and the environment in disadvantaged communities. The collection of articles examines the disproportionate effects of energy production, environmental consequences, and healthcare utilization in low-income populations.
Research at the University of Granada found that consuming fish more than 3 times a week during pregnancy is associated with worse cognitive performance in children. Higher levels of mercury exposure also show generalised delays in cognitive, memory, and verbal areas.
A study found that at least 85% of computers imported into Peru are reused, rather than going directly into recycling. The US is the source of up to 76% of used computers imported to Peru, challenging the widespread belief that e-waste is mainly about dumping unusable junk.
Particulate air pollution during the 2008 Beijing Olympics was twice as high as recent games in Athens and triple that of Atlanta. Despite government efforts to reduce pollution, levels were unacceptable for most dangerous particulate matter 100% of the time, posing serious health risks to athletes and spectators.
The inaugural issue of Ecopsychology, a new peer-reviewed online journal, chronicles the transdisciplinary endeavor of ecopsychology and its role in advancing psychological practice in an ecological context. The journal examines the link between human health, culture, and environmental issues.
Stephen Schneider, a climate researcher, emphasizes the need for accurate and comprehensive reporting on global warming. He stresses that developed nations must take control of their greenhouse gas emissions to make the problem solvable in developing countries.