Articles tagged with Environmental Issues
A study published in JACC found that long-term exposure to wildfire smoke may increase the risk of heart failure, particularly among older adults, women, and those living in lower-income areas. The risk was found to be higher with increased levels of PM2.5 air pollution from wildfires compared to other types of air pollution.
A new tool, called the Condition Assessment Framework, makes it possible to assess the ecological equivalence of an area to be restored or protected in relation to a degraded area. It considers three important attributes: biodiversity, landscape, and ecosystem services.
Mount Sinai Health System has received three prestigious awards from Practice Greenhealth for its commitment to environmental sustainability. The system's Mount Sinai Green program aims to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and create healthier environments. Recent initiatives include reducing emissions by 50% by 2030 and improvi...
The article discusses how emerging contaminants like agricultural pesticides and medicines are impacting water quality in developing countries. The presence of these pollutants is linked to toxic effects on humans and ecosystems, with many being undetected or under-regulated.
The ITU-WBA Greening Digital Companies report shows that tech sector carbon emissions continued to rise in recent years due to rapid advances in AI and data infrastructure. Despite this, the report highlights encouraging progress as more companies set emissions targets, source renewable energy, and align with science-based frameworks.
A nationwide study reveals that methane leaks from energy-intensive states like Texas lower air quality for people in neighboring states. Strong environmental regulations are shown to reduce hazardous gas leaks and improve safety.
A new study uses preserved plants and animals from natural history museums to track pollution trends over two centuries. Researchers found significant changes in pollutant levels between specimens collected in the 19th and 20th centuries, highlighting the impact of industrial activity on human health.
Gold mining in the Amazon depletes land of its water, creating harsh conditions where replanted seedlings can't survive. Researchers suggest flattening sand piles and filling in ponds could improve moisture retention and boost regrowth.
A new study from North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals that coastal flooding is occurring more frequently than previously thought. The study found major flaws with the widely used approach of using marine water level data to capture instances of flooding.
A new study published in Science finds that strong climate policy can preserve twice as much ice as current warming trajectories, even if temperatures stabilized today. At a 1.5°C temperature increase, 53% of global glacier mass could be preserved, alleviating hazards like flooding and freshwater deficiency.
Subsidies to agriculture, fossil fuels, and other sectors cause significant environmental degradation, threatening biodiversity and public health. The study highlights the urgent need for a transformation of the current economic model to protect nature and ensure well-being.
A recent study analyzes evolution of sustainability in higher education institutions, highlighting need for standardization and impact assessments. University-led initiatives and campus regulations can directly impact sustainability performance.
A new international study shows that El Niño and La Niña climate patterns affect nearly half of the world's mangrove forests, threatening these vital coastal ecosystems. Mangroves are experiencing widespread degradation during El Niño events and increased growth during La Niña events.
State capital participation in China boosts corporate environmental engagement, leading to increased environmental responsibility among private firms. The study sheds light on the critical role of state involvement in corporate environmental commitment.
A new study found that adopting low-carbon lifestyles can reduce global carbon footprints by 10.4 gigatons of CO2 equivalent, equivalent to 40.1% of household consumption-based emissions in 116 countries analysed. Researchers identified 21 low-carbon actions that could achieve this reduction if adopted by the top 23.7% of global emitters.
A new study reveals that climate change is rapidly becoming a third major threat to Earth's wild animals, alongside habitat alteration and overexploitation. The research found that 5.1% of assessed animal species are threatened by climate change, with six classes having at least 25% of species at risk.
A new study found that state-led climate action can reduce carbon emissions by up to 46% by 2050, with different technologies adopted in each state. State-led efforts would focus on industrial decarbonization, while federally coordinated efforts rely more on clean energy production.
The landmark report highlights poor mental health, rising obesity rates, exposure to violence, and climate change as major challenges for adolescents. The report urges targeted actions, including early intervention and partnerships with young people, to improve their health and wellbeing.
The University of Texas at Arlington's (UTA) Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) has developed a real-time sensor data system to track environmental impact. The program helps Texas manufacturers reduce pollution, lower emissions, and save costs by identifying energy waste, water consumption, and air leaks.
New research challenges conventional views on the link between environment and conflict, highlighting global inequalities that disproportionately harm countries in the Global South. The study finds that ecological sustainability and peace are not positively correlated, but comprehensively sustainable peace is possible.
Researchers have found new organisms that can capture carbon dioxide and clean pollutants from the environment. By exploring extremophiles in homes, scientists can gain insights into their unique characteristics and develop sustainable solutions.
The University of Texas at Arlington researcher Yunyao Li has been selected by NASA to develop a system that provides early warnings of hazardous air pollution from wildfires. The project aims to enhance wildfire air quality forecasting capabilities and develop tools for decision-making processes related to health management.
Researchers at Kyoto University found that reducing urban heat release can control summertime local precipitation, with potential to mitigate extreme weather issues. By systematically decreasing sensible heat fluxes over urban areas, the team demonstrated a link between urban heat island effect reduction and less intense rainfall.
A new study found that brick kiln owners in Bangladesh are willing to implement energy-efficient operational changes after receiving training and support. The changes led to a 23% reduction in energy use and substantial savings in coal expenditures.
The European Science Alliance for Agriculture and Food (ESAAF) aims to provide independent scientific expertise to EU policies. The new coalition brings together five leading institutions to promote sustainable and resilient food systems.
Researchers found that Brazil's beef production, if left unchecked, would exceed the country's limit for meeting its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target by up to 63GtCO2e by 2030. The study suggests that adopting emission reduction practices could prevent losses of up to $42.6 billion and ensure greater competitiveness.
Researchers found daily increases of 11-24% in asthma-related emergency department visits over the first episode of a wildfire event, continuing up to 6 days after it ended. However, a second period of heavy smoke did not result in an increase in asthma-related ED visits.
New study models spatial patterns of grazing halos around coral reefs and finds that halo patterns can signal reef resilience. The research suggests that stable halos exist where herbivores are limited by predators, while oscillating halos may indicate a shift in system health.
A PSU study found that only a quarter of respondents would pay full price for washing machine filters, highlighting the need for point-of-sale purchases. Government subsidies could increase adoption by up to 20%, suggesting a potential solution to microplastic pollution.
The Wilkes Center has announced seven finalists for the $250,000 Wilkes Climate Launch Prize, which supports innovative ideas from organizations worldwide to accelerate solutions to climate change. The finalists will present their solutions during the upcoming Wilkes Climate Summit on May 15.
A new UK study found that personal values, particularly frugality, are more influential in shaping sustainable food choices than environmental attitudes. Researchers suggest focusing on everyday values people already live by to inspire lasting change.
Recent rainfall patterns play a critical role in triggering humid heatwaves in tropical and subtropical regions. In drier regions, humid heatwaves are more likely during or just after periods of enhanced rainfall, while in wetter regions, they tend to follow at least two days of suppressed rainfall.
Researchers from the University of Vienna and EPFL Lausanne found high concentrations of rubber additives in bouldering gym air, similar to car tires. The study suggests that these substances do not belong in the air we breathe, highlighting the need for better ventilation and cleaner climbing shoe materials.
A new study suggests that adding particles to the atmosphere at a lower altitude near the polar regions can effectively cool the planet. Commercial jets like Boeing 777F could reach this altitude.
Researchers at University at Albany found a near full recovery from metal pollution in Adirondack surface waters since the enactment of the Clean Air Act. The study analyzed sediment samples and found a greater than 90% reduction in metal contamination across four ponds.
A recent study suggests that aquaculture in the Amazon can be a more sustainable alternative to livestock farming, producing 10 times less greenhouse gases and using 20-100 times less land. This could help achieve food security in the region while minimizing environmental impact.
A new study by the University of Bath found that London's Low Emission Zones significantly reduced harmful pollutants, resulting in lower sick leave rates and improved mental well-being. The introduction of Ultra Low Emission Zones also delivered substantial cost savings.
A new study by Griffith University reveals that the term 'nature positive' is being used more for political rhetoric than actual conservation efforts, posing a threat to biodiversity. The research found that only 0.01% of the global tourism sector makes net positive contributions to conservation.
A recent FAU survey found that most Floridians are concerned about rising insurance premiums due to climate change, with nearly two-thirds worried about affordability. The survey also reveals strong support for addressing climate change, expanding renewable energy, and teaching climate science in schools.
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Human consumption of antibiotics has increased by 65% since 2000, resulting in estimated 8,500 tonnes reaching river systems globally. Chronic environmental exposure can reduce microbial diversity and increase antibiotic-resistant genes, impacting fish and algae health.
The Rice WaTER Institute is advancing water innovation by fostering entrepreneurship, cross-sector collaboration and access to markets. Researchers and startups are working together to tackle pressing challenges like PFAS elimination and the water-energy nexus.
Researchers from UT Arlington discovered that many wastewater treatment plants are unable to effectively remove dangerous microplastics, which can transport other pollutants into the environment. This poses potential long-term health impacts for humans, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Dr. Gadhamshetty, a leading expert in environmental engineering, brings over 25 years of experience to the role. He aims to expand the journal's influence and promote transformative research that addresses critical environmental challenges.
The new centre will focus on air quality, extreme heat, and water supply issues, bringing together experts from across NTU and regional partners. It aims to develop evidence-based policies and real-world solutions to address the growing health threats posed by climate change in tropical regions.
A study mapped US counties with high rates of water system violations and inequalities in access to safe drinking water. Counties in West Virginia, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania ranked among the top 10 for violations, while Mississippi, South Dakota, and Texas topped the list for water injustice.
Kyushu University's Direct Air Capture and Utilization device captures CO2 from air, allowing it to be reused in daily life. The technology enables small-scale, decentralized carbon capture, making it suitable for densely populated cities like Japan.
A recent study reveals that only 9.5% of plastic materials produced globally in 2022 were made from recycled materials, with the majority coming from fossil fuels. The study also highlights a significant increase in plastic waste disposal by incineration and regional differences in plastic consumption.
New research found pet dogs disturb and directly harm wildlife, even when leashed, leading to reduced animal activity and avoided areas. Dog waste contributes to water pollution and inhibits plant growth.
A recent study found that urban bird species exhibit more elaborate colours and less brown plumage compared to those that fail to thrive in cities. This suggests that urbanization plays a role in shaping the colouration of birds in these environments.
Researchers from Rutgers University mapped mercury contamination in penguins of the Southern Ocean, revealing variations in mercury accumulation among different species. The study found that Adelie and gentoo penguins had low mercury levels, while chinstrap penguins showed significantly higher exposure due to their migration patterns.
The UN University's new report emphasizes the need for deep systemic changes to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. It introduces the Theory of Deep Change, which identifies structures and assumptions that perpetuate these challenges, and highlights five areas where urgent transformation is needed.
Researchers identified five consumer segments in Japan's CSA market, with 'Sustainable Food Seekers' showing the highest interest. The study highlights the importance of promoting CSA's educational, environmental, and social benefits over organic certifications. Japanese consumers prioritize food education, environmental issues, and so...
A new study highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities, with residents emitting significantly less carbon than the national average yet suffering disproportionately due to historical and systemic inequalities. Social workers are essential in driving society toward a future that reduces dependen...
A new study reveals that microplastics accumulate and disperse in marine environments along the Texas coast, particularly in estuaries and bays. The researchers found that winds and shrimp fishing can transport microplastics out of these areas and into the Gulf of Mexico.
A multidisciplinary survey in the eastern Indian sector of the Southern Ocean found that the southern boundary of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current has shifted southward, causing a change in water temperature and mac zooplankton composition. The survey also estimated the biomass of Antarctic krill in the area, with comparable results t...
Researchers found that burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers has a comparable environmental impact to low-sulfur fuels when considering various factors. The study suggests that scrubbers are a mature technology that can effectively reduce sulfur emissions, making them a viable option for shipping companies.
Researchers argue that scientists should use storytelling techniques to convey their work, appealing to humans beyond technical writing. They propose methods such as embracing storytelling, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, and using personal anecdotes to inspire meaningful action.
A professor argues that profit-driven policies on waste are exacerbating global inequalities, blaming consumers while industry produces more waste. The book 'Waste: The Basics' calls for responsible consumption and production, regulatory incentives, and national regulations to hold industry accountable for product waste and contamination.
PET-based glitter microplastics promote calcium carbonate crystallisation in seawater, altering natural biomineralisation processes in marine organisms. The study's findings suggest that glitter microplastics can degrade rapidly, releasing smaller fragments that are easily ingested by marine life.