Recent research conducted by Caltech researchers has shed light on a new class of enzymes that enable various bacteria to “breathe” nitrate in low-oxygen conditions. While this ability provides an evolutionary advantage for bacterial survival, it also results in the production of nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas. This discovery has significant implications for
Earth
In a changing climate, researchers have identified a concerning trend in cloud cover patterns that are contributing to the amplification of global warming. Led by Professor Johannes Quaas from Leipzig University, a team of scientists discovered that cloud cover is decreasing more during the day than at night, leading to a shift in the cooling
The catastrophic explosion of the Nord Stream gas pipeline in the southern Baltic Sea sent shockwaves through the marine ecosystem, with an unprecedented release of methane gas into the water. However, recent measurements conducted by the University of Gothenburg reveal a surprising twist – a significant portion of the methane remained dissolved in the water
A recent study conducted by UC Riverside sheds light on the detrimental impact of soot from large wildfires in California. While many research projects focus on the influence of climate change on wildfires, this particular study aims to understand the reverse scenario – how wildfires are altering the climate in return. Lead study author and
A major earthquake that occurred 2,500 years ago caused a significant change in the course of the Ganges River, one of the largest rivers on Earth. This previously undocumented event rerouted the main channel of the river in what is now densely populated Bangladesh. The study, which was published in Nature Communications, sheds light on
Barrier islands play a crucial role in protecting coastlines from the direct impacts of storms and sea-level rise. Composed of sand, these islands are constantly shifting and evolving in response to environmental factors such as winds, waves, and tides. They act as a buffer, shielding landward areas from the destructive forces of natural disasters. However,
A recent study conducted by researchers from the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) sheds light on the world’s increasing reliance on groundwater systems that are being rapidly depleted. The study, published in Nature Sustainability, emphasizes the urgent need to accelerate efforts to reduce groundwater depletion. However, the researchers also warn that addressing this issue
From providing oxygen through photosynthesis to serving as food for marine life, marine algae play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Their potential goes beyond sustaining marine life; they can also be utilized to create eco-friendly plastics and fuel. One method of leveraging marine algae for commercial purposes is through aquaculture. However, traditional aquaculture practices
In 2017, during a research field trip to the Ichinokawa Mine in Ehime prefecture, Noriyoshi Tsuchiya, a professor at the Graduate School of Environmental Studies, stumbled upon a remarkable discovery. While most people would be captivated by the dazzling sword-shaped stibnite crystals in the mine, Tsuchiya’s attention was drawn to a seemingly mundane sedimentary rock
Earthquakes are natural disasters that can cause catastrophic damage to both the environment and human lives. The ability to predict earthquakes ahead of time is crucial in order to mitigate their impact. Recent studies have shown that satellites can play a key role in detecting anomalies that may serve as early warning signs for earthquakes.
Recent research conducted by scientists at the University of Southern California has provided clear evidence that the Earth’s inner core is slowing down for the first time in many decades. This discovery contradicts previous studies suggesting that the inner core rotates faster than the planet’s surface. According to John Vidale, Dean’s Professor of Earth Sciences
The alarming increase in nitrous oxide emissions has been a major concern for researchers studying its impact on the environment. The recent report by the Global Carbon Project reveals that between 1980 and 2020, over 10 million metric tons of nitrous oxide were released into the atmosphere. This greenhouse gas is even more potent than
Climate models play a crucial role in predicting the impacts of climate change on our planet. These models help scientists and policymakers estimate sea level rise, flooding, temperature changes, and other important factors that influence decision-making. However, traditional climate models have limitations when it comes to providing quick and cost-effective information at smaller scales, such
The collaboration between researchers and artists has resulted in a groundbreaking project that aims to make invisible air pollution visible through the use of digital light painting and low-cost air pollution sensors. This innovative approach has shed light on the health risks faced by individuals living and working in Ethiopia, India, and the UK. The
The recent study published in Environmental Research Letters highlights the alarming fact that even individuals with an average sense of smell may be unknowingly exposed to natural gas leaks in their homes. This poses a significant risk to public health as small gas leaks can introduce hazardous air pollutants such as benzene, a known carcinogen.
