Volcanoes have always been a subject of fascination and fear for mankind. The idea that a seemingly dormant volcano can erupt after tens of thousands of years raises important questions about volcanic hazard assessment and our understanding of these geological phenomena. Recent research conducted by Hungarian scientists sheds light on the signs that precede volcanic
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A new study has shed light on a potentially growing natural hazard in the northern regions: frostquakes. As climate change continues to contribute to extreme weather conditions, such as heavy precipitation and cold waves, these seismic events could become more common. Frostquakes are caused by the rapid freezing of water in the ground and are
Marine organisms are vital for the global carbon cycle as they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in organic matter. This process, known as the biological carbon pump, plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change. Until now, it was believed that this pump is most efficient in oxygen-poor areas. However, a
Stir-frying has long been celebrated for its delicious dishes, but what if this popular cooking method is also polluting our indoor air and posing health risks? A team of researchers, including an air-quality expert from Johns Hopkins University, has developed a groundbreaking model that can accurately estimate and predict the concentration of particulate matter released
In a groundbreaking study, an international team of scientists, led by Dr. Xin Liu from the University of Hong Kong, has introduced a new method called ambient noise differential adjoint tomography. This method utilizes a portable instrument called a seismometer to record the Earth’s natural vibrations, leading to significant advancements in various fields, including the
New research from the Global Carbon Project science team reveals that global carbon emissions from fossil fuels have once again escalated to record levels in 2023. The annual Global Carbon Budget estimates that fossil carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions will amount to 36.8 billion metric tons this year, marking a 1.1% increase from the previous year.
Mountains have a significant influence on the precipitation change in western North America, particularly during El Niño and La Niña events. This new research provides valuable insights into the relationship between mountains, El Niño, and water allocation in the Colorado River region. By analyzing 150 years of rain and snow data, researchers have discovered trends
The formation of the East Coast of the United States has long been a topic of interest for geologists. A recent study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth provides new insights into this process, shedding light on the formation of the region during the breakup of the supercontinent Pangea and the opening
As the scorching summer heat shatters records in Arizona, it serves as a stark reminder of the alarming future that awaits our planet during the warmest season. The consequences of extreme heat are not exclusive to Arizona; they have captured global attention. For instance, a tragic incident occurred in Brazil, where a 23-year-old woman died
Scientists from the University of Oxford, in collaboration with Trillium Technologies’ NIO.space, have developed a groundbreaking tool that utilizes machine learning and hyperspectral data to automatically detect methane plumes on Earth from orbit. This breakthrough has immense potential in identifying and monitoring methane emissions, allowing for more effective action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. While
The impact of climate change on our planet is undeniable, and one of the most significant consequences is the rise in sea levels. As global warming continues, the melting of ice contributes to the increasing levels of water in our oceans. This rise in sea surface levels poses numerous challenges, including flooding of coastal areas
The current consumption and production systems that cater to our societal needs are unsustainable. As researchers from different fields have long explored ways to make these systems more sustainable, there is now an emerging collaboration between socio-technical and socio-environmental research communities. A recent special feature published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Aerosol particles have a significant impact on the Earth’s climate, and understanding their role is crucial for accurate climate modeling and forecasting. The hygroscopicity of aerosol particles, which refers to their capacity to hold water, is a key factor in determining their climate effects. The hygroscopicity of aerosol particles depends on various factors such as
The latest analysis conducted by Oxfam International has shed light on the disproportionate responsibility of the world’s wealthiest individuals in contributing to global carbon emissions. In stark contrast, the poorest two-thirds of the global population are responsible for emissions equivalent to that of the richest one percent. This alarming disparity calls for urgent action and
New research published in Science Advances introduces a more positive perspective by suggesting that plants may have the capacity to absorb more atmospheric CO2 from human activities than previously anticipated. However, the scientists behind this study emphasize that it should not diminish the necessity for urgent carbon emission reduction measures. While planting trees and conserving
