Articles tagged with Environmental Policy
A Dartmouth-led study reveals the devastating impact of gold and mineral mining on tropical rivers worldwide. Mining operations have doubled suspended sediment concentrations at 80% of affected rivers, altering river ecosystems and threatening human health.
A study reveals that racial differences in gut microbiome composition arise after 3 months of age and persist through childhood. Early social and environmental exposures play a significant role in shaping the gut microbiome, with research suggesting that environmental and social factors contribute to health disparities.
Research found that increased biodiversity can either help or hinder disease outbreaks in wildlife, depending on environmental conditions. Environmental pollutants like road salt changed the susceptibility of amphibian species to parasites, with higher biodiversity communities experiencing a dilution effect when exposed to pollutants.
A nationwide program in Ecuador, which replaced gas stoves with electric induction stoves, led to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and hospitalization rates. The study found that the program resulted in a 7% decline in liquid petroleum gas consumption and a 5% increase in residential electricity usage.
New research reveals that dams have flooded over 1.13 million acres of tribal land in the US, exacerbating land dispossession and cultural heritage destruction. The study calls for dam removal, tribal ownership, or funding for repairs to address this issue.
A UK-Sri Lankan research network aimed to develop research capacities among senior academic staff members from both countries. The training network investigated differences, overlaps, and synergies between Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) research communities.
A study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that institutional investors demand disclosure of climate risk due to its impact on a company's health and performance. The survey of 439 institutional investors showed that mandatory disclosure has an effect on investors' decisions.
A recent journal article by University of Miami researchers outlines ways to achieve greater equity in ocean governance and science in the global tropics. The authors emphasize the need to give a voice to the 'tropical majority' and incorporate indigenous knowledge into ocean management.
A new study reveals that nearly half of traded hazardous chemicals are imported without consent, posing a significant threat to human health and the environment. The report highlights the need for strengthened national and international action to address global trade of highly hazardous chemicals.
The IMO's current climate targets are insufficient to address the industry's growing CO2 emissions, which now account for 3% of global emissions. The organization lacks the political instruments and resources needed to implement more ambitious goals.
Researchers found that groundwater management plans with stakeholder input offered greater protection from groundwater depletion, especially for domestic wells and ecosystems. However, only 9% of plans integrated all three stakeholder groups, with economically vulnerable communities being disproportionately affected.
A new UMass Amherst study aims to develop a more robust understanding of the effects of ambient air pollution on women's reproductive health. The researcher will analyze data from 1,228 participants to identify mechanisms and susceptible reproductive processes across the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy.
A nationwide study found that social and organizational factors play a critical role in shaping sustainable behaviors among employees. Employees are more likely to act sustainably at work if they feel supported by their company and coworkers. The study also uncovered a link between eco-friendly behaviors and higher job satisfaction, su...
A new research project at University of Leicester will develop a digital 'twin' of the UK using artificial intelligence and big data to inform environmentally-friendly land use. The project aims to reduce emissions from cattle and sheep farming, which contribute around 10% of the UK's emissions.
A new study from Harvard University reveals that despite the national reduction of mercury emissions by 90% since the implementation of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards in 2011, two regions - Texas and North Dakota - continue to be major sources of toxic air pollution. The research highlights significant sociodemographic disparitie...
A new analysis of secret industry documents reveals that the chemical industry knew about the dangers of PFAS but failed to disclose this information to the public and regulators. The study examines how the industry used tactics to delay public awareness and regulations, with devastating consequences for human health and the environment.
A study by Anne Jacqueminet and colleagues identifies three favorable patterns for positive media coverage: congruent signalers, balancing signalers, and firms using a combination of less credible signals. Highly credible third-party signals play a complex role in media perception, delivering a single congruent message.
A Japanese-led team used mapping techniques to quantify the impact of agriculture on high-priority conservation areas. The study found that commodities like beef, rice, and soybeans are often produced in high-conservation priority areas, while others like barley and wheat are sourced from low-priority areas.
The study found that about one-third of all farming occurs in high conservation priority areas, with certain staples like beef and soybeans tending to be produced there. Changing sourcing practices can help reduce the impact on biodiversity, according to researchers.
Researchers investigated California's oil extraction impact on health and jobs, finding setbacks reduce emissions but lead to job losses. Policies like carbon taxes and excise taxes aim to curb production while minimizing economic harm.
Researchers estimate that plugging 14,000 inactive offshore wells could cost up to $30 billion, with over 90% in shallow areas. The majority of costs would come from deeper water wells, but these pose less environmental risk compared to those closer to shore.
Malith Senevirathne, a PhD student from the University of Huddersfield's Global Disaster Resilience Centre, attended a special reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate Commonwealth Day 2023. The event highlighted the theme 'Forging a sustainable and peaceful common future' and promoted democracy, human rights, and equality for Commo...
The latest issue of PLOS Biology features a special collection on biology-based solutions to reduce plastic pollution, carbon dioxide emissions, and produce food or energy more sustainably. Insect enzymes may degrade plastic waste, while photosynthetic algae can capture CO2 produced by industrial applications.
A new study by Florida Atlantic University suggests that monetary policy can impact pollution, with domestic effects being more significant than international spillovers. The research found that changes in the US Fed's interest rates can reduce CO2 emissions in the short run, but not necessarily in the long run.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that local enforcement of manure management regulations can effectively reduce nutrient concentrations in rivers and lakes. The study focuses on Wisconsin's unique approach, which allows counties to participate in enforcement without state approval.
A new study from Tulane University compared popular diets on nutritional quality and environmental impact, finding that keto and paleo diets scored among the lowest on nutrition quality and had the highest carbon emissions. Vegan diets, on the other hand, generated significantly less carbon dioxide per calorie consumed.
A Kaiser Permanente study of 3.7 million adults found long-term exposure to fine particle air pollution increases the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular disease, especially in neighborhoods with lower socioeconomic status. The research lends support for strengthening air quality standards to protect public health.
The war in Ukraine may trigger a new global land race, threatening rural livelihoods and the environment. Large-scale land acquisitions could exacerbate conditions of water scarcity and land degradation, prompting concerns about policy implications and long-lasting effects on rural development.
Researchers analyzed two US Army Corps of Engineers flood megaprojects in Rhode Island that emerged simultaneously after hurricane activity around the 1950s. The study found that strong public support and political backing were crucial factors in advancing one project, while the other failed to gain momentum due to environmental concer...
Researchers warn that deep-sea mining near hydrothermal vents in the Okinawa Trough could harm species hundreds of kilometers away due to interconnected ecosystems. Key vents should be protected for conservation, with some vent sites identified as crucial hubs for maintaining connectivity.
A new Stanford-led study highlights the importance of coordinated policies governing biodiversity in Colombia, one of the world's most biodiverse countries. The research found that biodiversity is governed by nearly 200 distinct policies covering various ecosystems and conservation approaches.
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that exposure to a pro-sustainability opinion in conversation can persuade people with anti-sustainability views to support environmentally friendly initiatives. In contrast, individuals with a pro-sustainability viewpoint remain unpersuaded by opposing viewpoints.
A new study found that people in highly walkable neighborhoods are more likely to engage in adequate physical activity and have lower BMIs, but the association differs among Black, Hispanic, and Asian populations. The study highlights persistent inequities in physical activity due to systemic racism and policy barriers.
A study found that communities experiencing sudden and significant job losses in manufacturing are less likely to engage in sustainability planning and meet sustainability-related goals. This is attributed to deep-rooted connections between industry and community identity, making it difficult for these communities to transition.
A recent study found that homes near electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) in California see a significant increase in value, with those within 0.4-0.5 km of EVCSs valued up to 5.8% higher. The study also showed reduced air pollution and increased traffic, but no effect on property values within closer proximity.
The study found that the lack of capacity in wastewater treatment works is a fundamental cause behind increased frequency and duration of Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs). This refutes suggestions that blame unpredictable weather for the issue. CSO use has been increasing, with most of it attributed to WWTWs' inadequate capacity.
A new study reveals that EU consumers are 'exporting' negative environmental impacts to their Eastern European neighbours while keeping economic benefits within the EU. The bulk of environmental pressures and impacts associated with EU consumption are felt in countries outside the bloc, with uneven distribution of costs and benefits wi...
A recent study from North Carolina State University suggests that participation in environmental education programs can motivate children across diverse language groups to act responsibly toward the environment. Bilingual or multilingual students saw bigger gains on average compared to students who spoke English primarily at home.
A new study analyzed state nutrient reduction strategies and found that initial energy and inclusive planning processes were key to success. Emphasizing local water body impacts was more motivating than distant goals, and addressing scale challenges is crucial for significant results.
A group of over 100 researchers identified priorities for synthesis research in ecology and environmental science, including diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. The study aims to address pressing issues and adapt to complex shifts in the environment by incorporating diverse perspectives and data.
Researchers found that riparian buffers can increase stream flow during low-flow events and maintain water levels in areas with high future development. However, the effectiveness of buffers was limited, and they were not enough to mitigate extreme changes in stream flow.
A new UW-led report emphasizes the unequal burden of marine plastic pollution on different communities, particularly in developing countries. The study calls for a more equitable approach to address the issue, focusing on plastics production rather than waste management.
Researchers propose a new framework to address place-based biases in environmental scholarship, recognizing that historical events and social contexts can influence research outcomes. By acknowledging and overcoming these biases, scientists can design more inclusive and culturally sensitive conservation efforts.
A new study reveals that high-quality coral reefs in Hawaii are popular tourist sites, but also at risk from tourism-related development and pollution. The research used social media and aerial mapping to analyze the impact of tourist visitation on live coral cover across hundreds of coastal sites.
A team of ecologists is calling for the designation of World Heritage Environmental Datasets to secure funding and ensure their long-term accessibility. These datasets, which include vital information on climate change adaptation, resource management, and environmental policy, are essential to understanding global change.
A Rutgers researcher has created a machine learning model that can estimate arsenic contamination in private wells without sampling the water. The model identifies geological bedrock type and soil type as primary contributors to higher arsenic concentrations, highlighting the need for targeted well testing programs.
A team of 70 scientists warns that climate change will drastically reduce the ability to build a sustainable future based on healthy ecosystems. Insects face extinction and ecosystem disruption due to global warming and extreme weather events.
A CSU study found that racially segregated communities are exposed to a more concentrated form of air pollution, including toxic metals like lead and cadmium. This disparity is linked to systemic racial injustices and targeted emissions reductions can help reduce exposure.
Researchers analyzed 30 years of cardiovascular mortality data from the US and UK, finding that lead exposure contributes more to CVD death risks in the US. The study also revealed a steady decline in cardiovascular deaths associated with all environmental factors in both countries.
A Dartmouth study found that severe heat waves resulting from climate change have already caused massive economic losses worldwide. The research estimates $16 trillion was lost to the effects of high temperatures on human health, productivity, and agricultural output.
The Annenberg Science and Public Health Knowledge Monitor assesses public knowledge on climate, maternal health, vaccination, and more. The quarterly survey reports aim to highlight strengths and weaknesses in public knowledge and inform public health strategies.
A recent study found that companies' zero-deforestation supply chain commitments have reduced tree clearance in the Brazilian Amazon by only 1.6% between 2006 and 2015. Despite this, over 50% of soy-suitable forests in Brazil remain unprotected. Experts call for stronger regulations to effectively combat deforestation.
A new paper highlights the crucial role insects play in ecosystems, including pollination, food sources, and mental health benefits. The authors advocate for a shift in public perception of insects, citing government inaction on biodiversity policy, and outline strategic priorities to support insect conservation.
Ancient tree conservation is crucial for maintaining ecosystem integrity and mitigating climate change. The researchers propose a two-pronged approach to protect these trees, including germplasm conservation and forest rewilding.
Researchers advocate for ocean-centered governance to resolve crises and foster harmony with humanity. The Earth Law Center and other experts propose introducing rights to the ocean.
A proposed U.S. menthol ban could significantly reduce plastic pollution and toxic chemical leaching into soil and water supplies. The ban is estimated to cut littering by 3.8 billion cigarette butts annually, saving approximately 1.7 million pounds of waste.
Researchers analyzed 351 Chinese firms from 2006 to 2019, finding that female CEOs were associated with environmentally sustainable policies. The presence of female directors on the board strengthened this relationship. These findings suggest women's leadership can promote social and environmental benefits for stakeholders.
Research from German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research finds poorly defined land rights increase deforestation in Brazil. Private land rights can be effective if combined with strict environmental policies, such as the Forest Code.
A mobile app will be developed to record cigarette smoke exposure and other air pollutants in everyday locations, engaging Black and American Indian youth as Citizen Scientists. The study aims to enhance youth engagement in healthy environments and local clean-air policies.
Researchers found that environments with high walkability and greenness increase physical activity levels. People who spent more time in these areas had the highest levels of moderate and vigorous physical activity.