Articles tagged with Natural Resources Conservation
A new study from Colorado State University suggests that transitioning to green wastewater-treatment approaches, financed through carbon markets, could save $15.6 billion and reduce CO2-equivalent emissions by 30 million tonnes over 40 years. The research explores the potential economic tradeoffs of switching to green infrastructure an...
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that annual producer income from non-wood products is $88 billion, with the added value of processing reaching trillions of dollars. Non-timber forest products contribute significantly to food security, health, and employment in low- and middle-income countries.
Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified the most effective AI method for monitoring insect populations using bioacoustics, with deep learning models achieving high accuracy. The study found that machine and deep learning are becoming the gold standards for automated bioacoustics modeling.
The study revealed three genetically distinct populations of rusty-patched bumblebees, highlighting the need for tailored conservation efforts. The analysis showed low colony abundance and high rates of inbreeding, threatening the long-term viability of the species.
A recent study reveals that the demand for critical minerals in Africa is putting African Great Apes at risk due to deforestation and habitat destruction. The study estimates that more than 180,000 gorillas, bonobos, and chimpanzees are at risk, with West African countries like Guinea being the most severely affected.
The study emphasizes the urgent need for a just and sustainable future, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, climate change, and socio-economic inequality. The authors advocate for a global cultural shift that prioritizes kinship with nature and communal well-being to avoid devastating consequences.
A recent study suggests that Canada lynx had a broader past range in the US, potentially including parts of Utah, central Idaho, and Yellowstone National Park. The researchers used a validated model to estimate the species' historic distribution, taking into account factors such as climate change and land use.
Researchers reconstructed a Late Holocene-aged subfossil coral death assemblage and compared it to modern reefs in Southeast Florida. The study reveals significant differences in coral composition between the two periods, suggesting that modern reefs may not be able to support range expansions of temperature-sensitive species.
A new study shows that species richness is strongly correlated with forest productivity, while phylogenetic and functional diversity are negatively correlated. This finding suggests that focusing on planting more tree species can be an effective way to restore degraded ecosystems.
A new study found that about half of Cerrado plant species will experience a net range loss due to climate change by 2040, leading to less plant diversity in lowland areas. The research suggests that the fate of plant species depends on their geographical range, with mountain plants having nowhere to go.
A recent study reveals that sandy soil reptiles are more vulnerable to extinction and habitat loss due to climate change. The research analyzed occurrence records for ten species of lizard and snake adapted to sandy habitats in South America's dry regions.
Virginia Tech researchers have received a five-year National Science Foundation grant to develop an open-source automated forecasting system for lakes. The system will enable real-time data collection and publishing, allowing researchers to predict water quality in lakes around the globe.
Researchers warn of devastating impacts of Olympic tower construction on coral reef habitat and local economy in Teahupo’o, Tahiti. The study found that the site supports a thriving coral community worth at least $170,000, with potential economic losses estimated at $1.3 million if the reef is damaged.
A study estimates that global ecosystems provide USD 112-197 trillion to the economy, with forests and wetlands accounting for nearly 80% of this value. Strong synergies are found among oxygen release, climate regulation, and carbon sequestration services, while trade-offs occur between flood regulation and other services.
A new study proposes three measures to improve the EU's response to illegal wildlife trade, including creating a database of all species trade and establishing regulations to prohibit the import of illegally captured specimens. The proposals aim to transform the EU into a model of environmental protection concerning wildlife trade.
A group of marine biologists challenge the notion of a stable white shark population shifting eastwards along South Africa's coastline. They argue that data cannot support population stability or redistribution claims, citing issues with dataset presentation and the onset of declines predating orca appearances.
Researchers observed an individual orca, nicknamed Starboard, killing a 2.5-meter juvenile great white shark within two minutes. The study challenges conventional cooperative hunting behaviors among killer whales, providing new insights into their predatory dynamics and potential impact on marine ecosystems.
A new protocol has been implemented, compensating loggers to leave kite nesting sites alone. The results show that 37 young raptors were saved over 7 years. This innovative approach demonstrates the benefits of dialogue between public and private sectors in conservation.
A University of Nevada, Reno study links strategic grazing to increased food supply for the greater sage-grouse, a keystone species in the Great Basin region. The research found that targeted grazing can boost insect populations and flowering plant growth, benefiting the species' reproductive phase.
Local fishers in Mexico's Gulf of California respond to climate challenges through self-governance and organizational structures, with cooperative fishing organizations adopting conservation measures for specific high-value species. The study reveals tradeoffs between specialization and adaptability, suggesting that social structures c...
A 10-year study monitored the recovery of macroinvertebrate communities after a red sludge disaster in Hungary, finding that severe disturbances hinder long-term recovery. Community recovery dynamics were found to vary with disturbance severity.
Researchers analyzed over 200 butterfly and moth genomes to understand their evolutionary history. They found that chromosomes have remained largely unchanged since the last common ancestor over 250 million years ago, despite the diversity seen today in wing patterns and caterpillar forms.
Researchers have discovered an estimated 348,000 square kilometers of shallow coral reefs worldwide, revising previous estimates. The high-resolution satellite maps also identify areas with hard and soft bottoms, providing valuable data for scientists and policymakers to better understand and manage reef systems.
A recent study published in Biological Conservation reveals that NY bobcat populations remain critically low, with occupancies below detectable limits. Researchers used trail cameras to monitor wildlife populations in central and western NY state, tracking white-tailed deer, red fox, coyote, eastern wild turkey, and gray fox numbers.
A global meta-analysis of six continents reveals that large wild herbivores have a significant impact on ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem variability. The study found that megafauna communities with larger herbivores tend to have positive effects on local plant diversity, while smaller species communities decrease it.
A new study by UMass Amherst and the Wildlife Conservation Society finds that climate change disproportionately affects older African elephants, who will have decreased chances of survival. This can lead to a ripple effect on their ecosystems and cultures, highlighting the need for coordinated management strategies at all levels.
A spatial model predicts pesticide exposure in bumblebees, explaining nearly 75% of the spatial variation. The model uses data on pesticide application and crop characteristics, but not flower attractiveness or chemical persistence.
A study of 38 Ontario municipalities found that almost all publish their sustainability goals but under half formally report on progress. Researchers from the University of Waterloo aim to help Canadian municipalities monitor and measure their climate mitigation efforts through a new partnership.
A study in PLOS ONE suggests that Galápagos penguins may accumulate microplastics at a high rate within their food web, with the excretion rate playing a key role. The research uses modeling to simulate microplastic movement through the Galápagos penguin ecosystem and highlights the potential for biomagnification across trophic levels.
A recent study by Tokyo University of Science researchers has uncovered the mechanisms by which plants regulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The findings, published in Physiologia Plantarum, reveal that ROS-generating enzymes are activated through two conserved mechanisms involving calcium ions and phosphorylation, ...
The FAPESP School of Advanced Science on Biodiversity aims to train young environmental scientists and technicians to critically analyze biodiversity data. The school will bring together leading researchers with representatives from different user segments to cover topics such as conservation, climate change, and ecosystem services.
A study published in Perspectives in Ecology and Conservation proposes a novel methodology for projecting native tree growth and optimizing timber production in forest restoration. This approach reduces the time to harvest by 25% and increases stand density by 38%, making large-scale forest restoration more attractive to landowners.
A new study shows that changes in skin-based microbes correlate more significantly with earthworm toxicity than those in intestinal microorganisms, especially under combined soil contaminations. Epidermal microbes consuming vital elements like zinc and copper contribute to nutritional deficiencies in earthworms.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have created a standardized safety test to assess how dangerous robotic lawnmowers are to hedgehogs. The test uses specially designed hedgehog crash test dummies and has found that many models pose a threat to these animals, especially at night when they are most active.
Researchers tracked 87 Adélie penguins using electronic tags, revealing how they interact with sea ice during their long-distance migrations. The study highlights the interconnectedness of species in the Southern Ocean and how climate change may impact Adélie penguin populations.
Scientists have developed a method to study bobcats using only their pawprints, allowing for extensive data collection and analysis of ancestral background and microbial communities. This technique has the potential to inform better management and conservation of rare or endangered species.
A new study published in Science Advances suggests that protected areas for elephants are most effective when connected to allow populations to stabilize naturally. This approach, known as 'connecting parks,' enables herds to move freely and absorb immigrants, reducing the need for human intervention.
Erle Ellis, professor of geography and environmental systems, argues that human societies have developed unprecedented capabilities to scale up and transform ecological systems. However, these advancements often come with negative environmental consequences, such as climate change and species extinctions.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University's College of Engineering and Computer Science have developed a new AI method to accurately count manatee aggregations in real-time. The method uses images captured from CCTV cameras and outperforms existing baselines, offering potential ways to aid endangered species.
Researchers found that Ukrainian-controlled territories gained forest area despite military conflict, while Russian-controlled territories experienced significant forest loss. The study highlights the impact of modern warfare on environmental sustainability and conservation in Ukraine's Emerald Network.
The University of Illinois initiative brings Denali neighbors together in an online discussion forum to share views on protected area conservation and land management. The study finds that engaging diverse stakeholders leads to collaborative dialogue and thoughtful discussions, despite differing priorities.
Research finds national parks and protected areas in Thailand are more prone to forest fires when located far from indigenous communities. Collaborative work with local communities reduces forest fires and air pollution, highlighting the importance of indigenous practices.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed a method to upcycle old broken concrete using graphene, producing strong and durable concrete. The approach is gaining traction as new graphene deposits are discovered and mined, bringing down costs and improving the environmental footprint of concrete production.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a system to assess water quality challenges in Suzhou, China. The study found that the city's water capacity has increased since 2001 due to effective water management measures.
The portal brings together genomic data from different biodiversity projects to aid conservation and biodiversity efforts. It allows researchers to understand genetic factors that make a species unique, including its vulnerabilities and strengths in adapting to changing environmental conditions.
Researchers predict that vampire bats will expand their locations in search of more stable climates, potentially linked to a spillover of rabies. The team's work aims to identify and track the bats by traveling to Colombia to contain the spread.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers predicts which regions will be colonized by non-native birds, mammals, and plants. The study found that suitable habitats, dispersal ability, and history of introduction are key predictors of spread.
A new conservation tool, Lion Localizer, helps authorities track the origin of illegally traded lion parts by analyzing mitochondrial DNA. The tool provides critical information on population impact and resource allocation, supporting efforts to protect tiny West African lion populations.
Research suggests that diverse forests can capture approximately 226 Gigatonnes of carbon, but this potential can be achieved by incentivizing community-driven efforts to promote biodiversity. Restoration efforts should include natural diversity of species and sustainable practices.
A new analysis of European Red List species reveals that 19% are at risk of extinction, including a large proportion of invertebrates. Agricultural land-use change poses a significant threat to these species, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to counter biodiversity loss.
Researchers have discovered a potential bottleneck in Adélie penguins' annual cycle, which could be exacerbated as the climate continues to change. The study found that seasonal Antarctic sea ice plays a crucial role in the penguins' molting periods, with low sea ice concentration signaling extended gaps in post-breeding diving activity.
A new study by researchers at the University of Leeds found that Amazon deforestation causes land surfaces up to 100km away to get warmer. The study analyzed satellite data from 2001 to 2020 and found that regions with more local and regional deforestation warmed by an average of 4.4°C.
A study in sustainable-use reserves found local game species abundance decreases about 5 kilometers from nearest human community. Human impact on biodiversity is mitigated by management strategies, supporting community-based wildlife management for food security and conservation.
A new AI-powered tool, Salmon Vision, enables real-time monitoring of salmon populations in British Columbia and beyond, addressing data-poor fisheries and climate-smart management. The technology has shown promising accuracy in identifying salmon species and yields mean average precision rates of up to 90% for key fish species.
A new study suggests that rebates can offer solutions to California's groundwater woes by incentivizing the collection of stormwater runoff and its infiltration into aquifers. The recharge net metering (ReNeM) program, modeled after rooftop solar metering, helps agencies meet Sustainable Groundwater Management Act requirements.
A WVU team is providing free technical assistance to local industrial facilities to reduce their impact on environmental and community health. The project aims to support businesses in making changes that benefit their communities while maintaining profitability.
A new study reveals that tropical crops relying on insect pollinators are under threat from climate change and agricultural activities. The research found significant declines in insect pollinator abundance and richness, with the tropics being the most vulnerable region.
Eastern North Pacific gray whales experience extreme population swings due to changing Arctic Ocean conditions. Long-term monitoring data reveals a bumpy ride in response to variable ocean conditions.
A new study led by researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, proposes a way to improve the effectiveness of conservation funding by giving organizations more freedom to allocate funds. By doing so, the team found that conservation projects can offer a high return on investment and make a greater impact on species protection.
A new study provides comprehensive genomic resources for pangolins, helping protect these threatened mammals from extinction due to habitat loss and trafficking. The data will aid in conservation priorities and management plans, as well as tracing the pangolin trade.