Articles tagged with Environmental Issues
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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...
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.
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.
Scientists at University of Lausanne classify 35 commonly used drugs in Switzerland based on their ecotoxicity. The classification reveals that painkillers like diclofenac and antibiotics like ciprofloxacin have significant consequences for aquatic biodiversity.
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.
The study analyzed microbial communities on the China Space Station, revealing common characteristics of environmental microorganisms during long-term human residence. The findings provide a baseline for microbial safety measures and advance research consensus on microbial adaptation capabilities in space.
Researchers at Lund University found that hedgehogs collected from urban areas in Sweden contained high concentrations of lead, pesticides, and other pollutants. The study provides an environmental fingerprint of urban ecosystems, highlighting the need for increased monitoring and reduced use of synthetic materials.
Researchers have developed a method to remove and destroy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water systems while transforming waste into high-value graphene. The process uses flash joule heating to break down PFAS, producing undetectable amounts of harmful volatile organic fluorides.
A new book by Lancaster University historian James Taylor highlights the lives of pioneering female stockbrokers who challenged societal beliefs about women and money. The study reveals how these women fought against exclusion and ultimately won the right to join the London Stock Exchange in 1973.
A study by University of Cologne found that virtual reality videos increased feelings of being intensely involved in the narrative, leading to a stronger positive emotional affect and greater willingness to donate. This immersive experience was found to have a significant impact on personal attitudes and behavioral intentions.
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Emerging Pollutants will tackle the challenges of monitoring and regulation of emerging pollutants. Applications can be submitted until April 20, 2025.
A recent study by Concordia researchers found that solutions journalism in Canadian alternative media outlets is often constrained by institutional lack of support and daily pressures. Despite its benefits, the practice requires strong nurturing environments to flourish.
A new study finds a positive correlation between microplastic concentration and the prevalence of high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, but not cancer. Higher microplastic pollution is associated with a higher risk of disease, suggesting a potential link between microplastics and chronic noncommunicable diseases.
Researchers propose darkening cities to improve biodiversity, human health, and reduce energy waste by embracing nocturnal living. Professor Nick Dunn's 'Dark Futures: When the Lights Go Down' presents a vision for an alternative future that reconnects humans with nature's rhythms.
Researchers developed a natural detergent using cellulose nanofibers from wood and zein protein from corn, effective in removing various stains without leaving residues. The new detergent outperformed commercial products in some tests, suggesting a potential sustainable alternative to synthetic cleaning agents.
The study finds hydrothermal liquefaction effective in breaking down complex organic compounds, producing high-energy density bio-oil and reducing pollutants like microplastics and pharmaceutical residues. Further research is needed to optimize HTL processes and explore alternative catalysts and solvents to enhance efficiency and reduc...
The regulations could roughly double emissions reductions from the power sector in 2040, falling 51% from 2022 levels if maintained, compared to 26% without the rules. The vast majority of reductions would come from accelerating coal-fired plant retirements.
Researchers found systemic monitoring disparities for six major pollutants across US Census groups, with Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders facing the largest gaps. The study highlights the need to consider biases in datasets beyond algorithmic bias.
Adopting zero-emission vehicles in Illinois could significantly improve air quality, reducing nitrogen dioxide pollution by half. This would lead to a decrease in premature deaths and new cases of childhood asthma, with the greatest benefits seen in neighborhoods currently experiencing high levels of pollution.
A research project from Politecnico di Milano proposes a novel method to recycle used vegetable oil into valuable resources like bio-lubricants and air purification devices. The project optimizes waste treatment processes while reducing waste and promoting European independence in critical raw material supply.
A new study reveals that climate change is having a severe impact on adolescent mental health in southern Madagascar, with high levels of anxiety, depression, and sense of hopelessness reported. The research highlights the need for mental health supports to be built into climate adaptation efforts to help young people facing an uncerta...
A new method using terahertz radiation has been developed to accurately measure the water content in biogas produced during biomass recycling. This allows for efficient operation and reliable results over a wide range of water vapor concentrations and temperatures.
A new study found that adding green-synthesised iron nanoparticles (G-nFe) to pig manure neutralises bioavailable copper, reducing environmental risks. The process reduces exchangeable cooper by 66.8%, carbonate-bound copper by 47.5%.
A global survey of over 30,000 people found that those from the Global South are more hopeful about climate change, leading to increased support for climate interventions. Meanwhile, European countries express strong anger and sadness towards climate change, highlighting the need for diverse perspectives in addressing the crisis.
Researchers have successfully demonstrated the environmental benefits of turning CO₂ emissions into key chemical ingredients for essential consumer goods. The study found that waste CO₂ can be part of the solution rather than the problem, reducing GWP by around 82% for paper mill emissions.
Scientists at NTU Singapore have developed a solar-powered method to transform sewage sludge into green hydrogen and single-cell protein, reducing environmental damage and creating renewable energy and sustainable food. The three-step process recovers 91.4% of organic carbon and converts 63% into single-cell protein without producing h...