Earth

The use of lithium-ion batteries in clean energy infrastructure presents a growing source of pollution in air and water, according to a recent study published in Nature Communications. Researchers, including Texas Tech University’s Jennifer Guelfo, have identified a novel sub-class of per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) compounds known as bis-perfluoroalkyl sulfonimides (bis-FASIs) in lithium-ion batteries, which

The Polar regions are experiencing accelerated warming at a rate much higher than lower latitudes. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has reported a significant increase in air temperature over Arctic landmasses during the 20th century, with the highest rates of increase occurring since the 1980s. This phenomenon, known as “polar amplification,” refers to the

The impact of climate change on the ocean’s overturning circulation is a topic of concern for scientists studying carbon sequestration. While it was previously believed that a slowdown in the ocean’s circulation would result in less carbon dioxide being pulled down from the atmosphere, a new study by an MIT researcher published in Nature Communications

Climate models rely heavily on various metrics to accurately predict future climate scenarios. One of the key metrics used in climate modeling is radiative forcing, which involves the impact of different atmospheric factors on the Earth’s radiation balance. General circulation models (GCMs) are commonly used for climate modeling and they specifically focus on understanding how

In a world where plastic pollution is a growing concern, a team of researchers at McGill University has developed groundbreaking technology that could change the way we monitor and manage this environmental issue. The new technology is capable of detecting and deciphering nanoplastics in water, a feat previously likened to finding a needle in a

Tropical forests play a crucial role in sustaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change. However, these vital ecosystems are facing significant threats from human activities such as deforestation and degradation. A recent study published in Nature sheds light on the often overlooked effects of human-driven degradation and fragmentation in tropical moist forests. By combining remote sensing

The melting of the Antarctic ice sheets has become a pressing issue in recent years due to the effects of global warming. A study led by the Alfred Wegener Institute has revealed crucial information about the formation of the Antarctic ice sheets millions of years ago. Previously, it was assumed that the entire continent of

Europe is home to a variety of different city types, each with its own unique characteristics and impact on human health, the environment, and carbon footprint. A recent study conducted by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) has analyzed 919 European cities to identify four basic urban configurations on the continent: compact-high density cities,

A recent study published in the journal PLOS Climate by researchers from the National University of Ireland Maynooth and the University of Maryland sheds light on how childhood home temperature and community connectedness can influence how U.S. residents set their thermostats. This information could provide new insights into encouraging energy conservation and tackling climate change.

The exploration of hydrothermal vents, located at the junctions of drifting tectonic plates, has always been an exciting area of research for scientists. These vents, known for their unique ecosystems and mineral-rich chimneys called black smokers, provide valuable insights into the Earth’s deep-sea processes. However, despite significant advancements in this field, there are still many

A recent study conducted by a UC Riverside atmospheric scientist has revealed alarming predictions regarding the impact of unchecked carbon emissions on tropical rain patterns. According to the research, continuous carbon emissions are expected to cause a significant northward shift in tropical rains in the coming years. This shift is attributed to complex atmospheric changes

In a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Birmingham, University College London, and Tsinghua University, it was revealed that the carbon mitigation efforts in 240 Chinese cities are mainly benefiting from the actions of other cities, rather than their own contributions. The study, which analyzed data from 309 Chinese cities between 2012