Articles tagged with Environmental Policy
Trade in coral and tropical fish is substantial and growing, removing millions of animals a year. The US can leverage its market power to reduce the environmental impact by protecting more species and promoting humane sales.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine highlight the carcinogenic effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can cause harm during organ formation. EDCs, such as bisphenol A, have been linked to increased cancer rates, obesity and infertility.
Researchers from NC State University developed a new model to understand how biofuel chemicals react when burned. This helps create more efficient and environmentally friendly energy sources.
A study by David Victor finds that fossil-fuel subsidies undermine energy security and worsen the environment. Most subsidies are a waste of money, and their removal could provide $550 billion annually for more beneficial programs.
Mikhail Mikhailovich Ermolaev was a prominent Soviet Arctic scientist who worked for 13 years before being arrested and sent to the Gulag on trumped-up charges. Despite harsh conditions, he eventually resumed his academic career and established a new department at Kaliningrad State University.
A new UC Davis study finds that sudden shifts in Earth's natural systems can occur with no warning, making it difficult to prevent or prepare for major changes. The study suggests that some effects of climate change on ecosystems may only be seen once the effects are dramatic, making return to a desirable state nearly impossible.
A new study suggests that Brazil can end deforestation in the Amazon by 2020 with the help of market forces and government will. The estimated cost of achieving this goal is between $6.5 billion to $18 billion, which would result in a 2-5% reduction in global carbon dioxide emissions.
A recent study by University of California, Davis, researchers used 'bugs in boxes' to investigate the variability of invasive species' spread. The results suggest that predicting the course of an invasion may be more challenging than previously thought.
The role of society in preventing chronic diseases such as CVD is crucial. Governments, industries, and civil society must collaborate to promote healthy lifestyles and environments. The impact of societal changes on health outcomes has been observed in countries like Finland, where CVD mortality has decreased by over 70%.
A small study found that people believe bottled water has health benefits, but are unsure of the extent. Convenience and taste were more influential factors for participants when choosing bottled water.
The University of Miami's Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy has awarded two graduates, Sara Gonzalez-Rothi and R. Scott Nuzum, with Everglades Foundation Congressional Fellowships. The fellows will receive a $45,000 stipend and spend 12 months in Washington D.C. offices focused on environmental policy.
A new report identifies six Americans who view global warming differently, from 'alarmed' to 'dismissive', revealing varying levels of concern, awareness, and action on climate change.
A Michigan scientist and ethicist argue that environmental scientists have a responsibility to advocate for environmental policy. They analyze key arguments for and against advocacy, finding that most lack soundness. The researchers conclude that more active participation by scientists in policy matters is necessary to better society.
A study by K-State psychologist Satoris Culbertson found that perceived family-friendly environments benefit both individuals and organizations. The research showed that these environments increase intent to remain in the military and unit capability of successful performance.
A study by MIT researchers found that cap-and-trade programs can be effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions without a significant economic impact. The study analyzed the European Union's system and similar US programs, confirming that markets emerge to facilitate trading and emissions are reduced efficiently.
A Yale University study finds that compact fluorescent lighting can increase mercury emissions in certain countries and US states, offsetting energy conservation gains. The switch to CFLs may reduce emissions in some areas, such as Estonia and China, but increase them in others, like South America and parts of Europe.
The September 2008 issue of BioScience features research on the molecular biology toolbox, permafrost carbon vulnerability to climate change, urbanization impacts on aquatic ecosystems, warfare ecology, sociality in bats, lab-computation collaboration, deforestation and vectorborne disease, and more.
This special issue of Policy, Politics & Nursing Practice examines the economic value of nursing care and its impact on patient outcomes. The research reveals that improving work environment changes or staffing levels can lead to cost savings through increased nurse satisfaction and improved patient outcomes.
Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle will be the first recipient of a prestigious award from the Ecological Society of America. The award recognizes his commitment to ecological and environmental policy issues through initiatives such as invasive species control and renewable energy promotion.
Priority Countdown countries face policy gaps and conflicts hindering progress towards reducing maternal, newborn, and child mortality. The authors identified key challenges including financing, governance, and product availability that must be addressed to scale up effective interventions.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Active Living Research Program highlights the need for tailored interventions to address disparities in physical activity participation among underserved communities. The special issue identifies safety concerns related to crime as a key barrier to active living, while also pointing towards policy a...
A new study by George Mason University researchers suggests that companies participating in voluntary environmental programs (VEPs) do not outperform those that don't participate. In fact, non-participating companies outperformed self-monitored VEP participants by 24%.
The journal, launched by Mongabay.com, will publish original research papers and reviews on tropical forest and ecosystem conservation. It aims to stimulate publications addressing social, economic, and industrial drivers impacting tropical ecosystems.
A novel study by Jianguo Liu and Eunice Yu at Michigan State University found that divorce rates globally are on the rise, leading to more households with fewer people, increased resource consumption, and environmental degradation. In contrast, cohabitation can reduce urban sprawl and soften the environmental hit.
Researchers synthesized natural and social sciences to understand coupled human and natural systems, revealing complexities in environmental and socioeconomic patterns. The study emphasizes the need for specialization easing up to develop feasible policies for effective solutions to complex problems.
The UK's escalating waste problem can be tackled by changing buying habits and attitudes to consumption. Social marketing techniques can encourage people to reduce their consumption and lower waste output.
Ecologists and philosophers protest a new definition of 'endangered species' that could weaken the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973. The new definition limits endangered species to those at risk of extinction within their current range, which may hinder conservation efforts for species like wolves, grizzly bears, and jaguars.
Researchers at Harvard University found that Beijing's traffic restrictions in November reduced NOx emissions by 40% and traffic by 30%. The study suggests that similar efforts could lead to significant changes in air quality during the 2008 Summer Olympic Games.
An international science team led by LSU professor Robert Twilley is developing an environmental observation system for India to help reduce climate-related risks. The system will provide a scientific foundation for long-term government policies aimed at meeting international accords on greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers will develop software to predict unintended consequences of greenhouse gas reduction policies on the automotive market, life cycle environmental impact, and material demand. The goal is to ensure that policies effectively reduce emissions while minimizing undesirable outcomes.
A recent study finds that media coverage is becoming more gender-balanced, with women candidates receiving more attention and paragraphs published about them. The study suggests that this shift may be advantageous to female politicians, leading to an environment more favorable to their advancement.
Research by Cornell sociologist Sharon Sassler found that cohabiting working-class couples follow traditional patterns in advancing their relationships and pursuing careers. The study suggests that societal institutions of gender shape behaviors in these alternative living arrangements.
A new study from Ohio State University suggests that pine plantations in the southern United States could be a significant contributor to rising carbon dioxide levels. The researchers estimate that up to 10 million acres of hardwood and natural pine forests will be converted to pine plantations by 2030, leading to increased carbon emis...
A group of 654 environmental policy makers and academics have created a list of 100 key questions to help bridge the gap between science and policy. The list aims to inform policy decisions with sound scientific research, addressing pressing ecological issues.
The National Children's Study will follow over 100,000 children from birth to age 21 to examine the impact of environmental factors on child health. The study aims to improve the lives of children in Queens and inform child health guidance and policy nationwide.
A Cornell graduate student has been awarded the AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leader Award. The winner, Laughlin, will participate in a two-day event in Washington D.C., meeting with Congressional leaders and attending briefings by key government officials. She will also discuss federal programs supporting biological research.
The panel discussion highlights concerns over funding cuts for environmental research programs, including NASA's Earth Science program and the Climate Change Science Program. The scientists warn that these cuts will have a significant impact on graduate student training and the nation's economic competitiveness.
High levels of fluoride were found in several brands of instant tea, with amounts ranging from 1.0 to 6.5 parts per million. The study suggests that doctors should ask patients about their tea consumption if they have achiness in their bones.
A new institution is proposed to measure and prioritize all major global threats, enabling governments to formulate informed policies. The World Institute for Risk Evaluation (WIRE) would gather evidence, quantify risks, and provide data-driven conclusions.
The Hudson's Bay Company's pursuit of profits led to ecological stress, habitat destruction, and the decline of beaver populations. The company's focus on fur trading also introduced European farming methods and crops, altering the Northwest landscape and human population dynamics.
The Ecological Society of America presents an action plan to address growing environmental challenges globally. The report emphasizes the need for integrating ecological knowledge into policy and management, fostering an ecologically knowledgeable public, and building infrastructure for ecology.
A team of six leading ecologists warn that hatchery fish cannot save wild salmon populations, and urges NMFS to exclude them from population counts. The panel recommends protecting habitats to ensure robust wild populations, as hatcheries can dilute gene pools and alter behavior.
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), passed in 1970, has had a significant impact on US environmental policy and is now being revisited in its midlife. NEPA's strength lies in giving groups the power to oppose local projects that may threaten the environment, such as highway development.
The NY Academy of Sciences' Harbor Consortium recommends minimizing mercury emissions from coal combustion to reduce pollution in the New York/New Jersey harbor watershed. The group cites a direct link between atmospheric releases and mercury levels in fish, emphasizing the need for a national and international commitment.
Researchers say governance of critical resources is a struggle, but that humans can establish effective stewards through adaptable rules and dialogue. Successful examples include the Maine lobster fishery and Montreal Protocol on stratospheric ozone.
Professor Marchant's research team will analyze how new genomic data can be integrated into existing laws and regulations, as well as identify ethical and policy considerations for using genetic data in environmental decision-making. The goal is to develop criteria for using human genome data in environmental regulation.
A study by Michigan State University suggests that preserving biodiversity is essential for human health and economic development. The researchers emphasize the importance of finding ways to protect China's vast system of nature reserves while addressing socio-economic challenges.
A two-year study found that environmental changes in middle schools increased boys' physical activity during school hours, leading to improved body mass index. However, no significant change was observed in girls' physical activity or dietary fat intake.