Marine algae play a crucial role in our ecosystem, from producing oxygen through photosynthesis to feeding fish and shellfish. But aside from their ecological importance, researchers are exploring the potential of marine algae in creating eco-friendly plastics or fuel. However, the process of growing algae commercially, known as aquaculture, often requires a significant amount of
Earth
Barrier islands play a crucial role in protecting coastlines from the direct impacts of storms and sea-level rise. Composed of sands that are constantly shifting in response to environmental factors such as winds, waves, and tides, these islands act as a buffer, shielding landward areas from the destructive effects of natural disasters. When sea levels
The study conducted by researchers from the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) sheds light on the increasing reliance of the world on depleting groundwater sources. It highlights the urgency of accelerating efforts to mitigate groundwater depletion, as failing to do so could have significant repercussions on food security globally. The study specifically points out
During a recent research expedition to the Ichinokawa Mine in Ehime prefecture, Noriyoshi Tsuchiya, an esteemed professor, stumbled upon a remarkable find amidst the dazzling stibnite crystals. While most would be captivated by the gleaming crystals, Tsuchiya found himself drawn to a sedimentary rock formation known as breccia. This seemingly ordinary rock bundle held within
Earthquakes have long been a source of devastation, but recent studies suggest that there may be a way to detect them much earlier than previously thought. Through the analysis of satellite data, anomalies in the ground have been observed that could potentially signal an impending earthquake. In addition to ground anomalies, anomalies in the atmosphere
Recent research conducted by scientists at the University of Southern California has shed light on a fascinating phenomenon regarding the Earth’s inner core. This new study, published in Nature, reveals that the inner core is backtracking and slowing down in relation to the planet’s surface. This discovery challenges previous assumptions and raises intriguing questions about
The recent report by the Global Carbon Project sheds light on the concerning trend of nitrous oxide emissions, a powerful greenhouse gas that has continued to increase from 1980 to 2020. With over 10 million metric tons released into the atmosphere in 2020 alone, primarily from farming practices, the impact of these emissions on global
Climate models play a crucial role in predicting the impacts of climate change, providing valuable information for scientists and policymakers to make informed decisions. However, the current climate models face challenges in delivering this information quickly and cost-effectively, especially on smaller scales such as the size of a city. The traditional approach of downscaling a
The collaboration between researchers and artists has led to an innovative approach of “painting with light” to make invisible air pollution visible in Ethiopia, India, and the UK. By combining digital light painting techniques with low-cost air pollution sensors, the team has successfully captured photographic evidence of pollution levels in various cities—shedding light on the
Recent research has shed light on the hidden dangers that natural gas leaks pose to indoor air quality. Contrary to popular belief, even individuals with an average sense of smell may be unknowingly exposed to hazardous air pollutants such as benzene. This revelation comes from a study published in Environmental Research Letters, which highlights the
In the modern era, the impact of climate change is being increasingly felt through the surge in flood risks in urban areas. The rise in heavy rainfall disasters has transformed into a global concern requiring innovative solutions. Traditional numerical simulations have been utilized to predict flooding events caused by heavy rain and river overflows. However,
The increasing demand for cobalt and lithium for e-car batteries, the necessity of copper, aluminum, and iron for a fossil-free power supply, and the essential need for rare earth elements for wind turbines all point towards a significant increase in material consumption by 2050. A new study conducted by the Berlin-based climate research institute MCC
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is stored in the form of methane hydrate under the seafloor. This ice-like solid contains massive deposits of carbon, estimated to be at least 1,800 gigatons, with some projections suggesting it could be as high as 20,000 gigatons. The concern arises from the fact that if the temperature rises, methane
Recent research led by Curtin University has challenged previously held beliefs about the emergence of fresh water on Earth. According to the study titled “Onset of the Earth’s hydrological cycle four billion years ago or earlier,” published in the journal Nature Geoscience, evidence suggests that fresh water appeared on Earth around 4 billion years ago.
The evolutionary history of Earth is marked by periods of rapid biodiversity growth, with one of the most significant bursts dating back to roughly 480 million years ago during the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event. A recent study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University suggests that this explosion of new species may have been catalyzed