Phytoplankton, the microscopic organisms that perform photosynthesis in the ocean, play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and have a significant influence on Earth’s climate. These tiny organisms capture and transport carbon (C) through the process of photosynthesis, and their growth relies on essential nutrients like nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). The key
Earth
The massive flooding of the Sagavanirktok River in northern Alaska in 2015 had immediate consequences, including the closure of the Dalton Highway, but new research suggests that it also led to longer-term ground subsidence in the permafrost-rich region. Assistant professor Simon Zwieback from the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute conducted a study to investigate
In recent years, there has been a growing consensus among scientists that our planet is likely to surpass the 1.5℃ warming threshold. This has raised concerns about the potential irreversible changes that may occur as a result of exceeding emissions targets, a phenomenon known as a climate overshoot. These changes include sea-level rise, ecosystem disruption,
The cultivation of aromatic hops in Europe, which gives beer its bitterness, is under threat due to climate change, warns a study published in Nature Communications. The European varieties of hops are highly valued and used by brewers worldwide, but the rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall are leading to reduced yields and a decline in
The Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, is facing immense environmental challenges that threaten its health and biodiversity. Scientists have recently made a groundbreaking discovery regarding the source of previously unquantified nitrogen and phosphorous that are negatively impacting the reef. This new information suggests that existing conservation and restoration efforts may
Amidst the second release of treated radioactive wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant, concerns and misinformation have emerged regarding the potential risks of this discharge to the Pacific Ocean. Several nations and international groups have raised alarm about the impact on marine life and humans. However, a comprehensive review titled “The risks of radioactive wastewater
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting earthquakes has raised hopes for the future of earthquake forecasting. Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin have developed an AI algorithm that showed promising results during a trial in China, correctly predicting 70% of earthquakes a week in advance. This breakthrough has significant implications for
As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, there is a concerning trend emerging – humans are increasingly settling in areas highly exposed to dangerous flooding. A recent study led by a World Bank economist, Jun Rentschler, highlights the rapid growth of settlement in flood-prone zones, with China being a major
The Earth’s inner core, composed primarily of iron atoms under extreme pressure, has fascinated scientists for decades. Recent research led by The University of Texas at Austin and collaborators in China has revealed a groundbreaking discovery – certain groupings of iron atoms in the inner core are capable of rapid movement, akin to dinner guests
A groundbreaking study published in Nature Climate Change has revealed that savannas and grasslands in drier climates have a significantly greater capacity to store carbon and contribute to the reduction of climate warming than previously believed. The research draws on an extensive analysis of fire-manipulation experiments from around the world, coupled with field-sampling campaigns. Led
The University of Alabama in Huntsville has recently conducted a groundbreaking research study aimed at understanding the extent to which adding carbon dioxide to the atmosphere affects global warming. Led by Dr. Roy Spencer and Dr. John R. Christy, this study seeks to address a significant question in the field of climate change research. The
Scientists from around the world have made a groundbreaking discovery regarding the role of biological particles in the formation of ice within Arctic clouds. This research has significant implications for climate science and our understanding of the rapidly changing Arctic climate. Through extensive research conducted at the Zeppelin Observatory in the High Arctic, an international
Plastic pollution is a global environmental crisis that has gained significant attention in recent years. One aspect of this crisis is the presence of microplastics, small plastic particles that are less than 5 mm in size. These microplastics can originate from various sources, including industrial effluents and the degradation of larger plastic waste. Shockingly, research
The sea ice surrounding Antarctica has faced an alarming decrease, reaching a record low surface area during its peak size this winter. According to a preliminary analysis conducted by the US National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC), the maximum extent of Antarctic sea ice reached a mere 16.96 million square kilometers (6.55 million square
In the fight against the climate crisis, transitioning to clean energy is crucial. Among various clean energy sources, wind energy stands out as the most prevalent. However, despite its potential, the deployment of wind energy projects often encounters significant local opposition. Understanding the prevalence of opposition and the factors that contribute to it is essential
