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Saudi Arabia's Mega-City Neom Could Change Weather Patterns, Warns Insider
Donald Wuebbles, a University of Illinois professor of atmospheric science, who serves as a paid adviser to Neom, issued the warning.
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New Study Reveals Recent Ice Gains in Antarctica, But Long-Term Melting Continues
A study led by researchers at Tongji University using NASA's GRACE satellites has observed recent ice gains in Antarctica from 2021 to 2023, mainly due to unusual precipitation. However, the long-term satellite data from 2002 to 2020 shows a significant and accelerating trend of ice loss. However, experts emphasize this short-term gain does not rev...
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"Green Tech Alone Won't Save Us": Experts Warn Of Insufficient Progress Amid Climate Crisis
The rapid growth of green technology innovation may not be sufficient to address the escalating climate crisis and ecological scarcity.
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World’s Largest Iceberg A23a Grounds Near South Georgia, Raising Wildlife and Environmental Concerns
The world’s largest iceberg, A23a, has run aground near South Georgia, a key wildlife haven. Scientists are monitoring its impact on marine life, particularly on penguins and seals, as it could disrupt feeding routes. Some experts suggest the iceberg may also enhance ocean productivity by releasing nutrients. If it fragments, it may pose risks to...
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Scientists Find Wastewater Bacteria That Break Down PET Plastic, Aiding Pollution Control
Research has revealed that bacteria commonly found in wastewater can break down PET plastic, a widely used material in bottles and textiles. Scientists identified a specific enzyme responsible for degrading the plastic into smaller particles. While experts see promise in this discovery, concerns remain about its scalability for tackling large-scale...
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Scientists Detect Rising Microplastics in Human Brains, Study Raises Concerns
A study has found microplastics in human brains, with concentrations rising over recent years. Researchers suggest possible links to dementia, but some experts question the findings due to potential flaws in the analysis. While microplastics have been previously detected in human bodies, their impact on brain health remains unclear. Scientists call...
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Historical Records Unveil 16th Century Transylvania’s Climate Struggles
Centuries-old records from Transylvania offer insight into the extreme climate events of the 1500s. Researchers examined handwritten manuscripts in multiple languages to trace shifts in temperature, droughts, and floods. The study reveals how people endured environmental hardships, including famine and disease. Evidence suggests the Little Ice Age ...
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Microplastics Found in Human Brain Tissue, Study Shows Rising Levels
A study has detected microplastics and nanoplastics in human brain tissue, showing a 50 percent increase in levels over recent years. The findings suggest these particles may bypass the blood-brain barrier, leading to concerns over potential health effects. Experts are now focusing on how these plastics enter the brain and their possible role in ne...
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SpaceX Starship Flight 7 Explosion Raises Concerns Over Air Pollution
The explosion of SpaceX’s Starship Flight 7 in mid-January has raised concerns among scientists about atmospheric pollution. The upper stage, weighing 85 tons without fuel, detonated at 90 miles (146 km) above Earth, potentially releasing 45.5 metric tons of metal oxides and 40 metric tons of nitrogen oxides. Experts warn these pollutants could i...
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Polar Bear Fur's Natural Oil Prevents Ice Build-Up, Study Finds
Scientists have uncovered a surprising feature of polar bear fur: a natural oil that prevents ice accumulation. Unlike penguins, which rely on feather structure, polar bears benefit from a chemical composition that keeps their fur ice-free. A study published in Science Advances found that unwashed polar bear fur performed as well as high-performanc...
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2024 Marks Earth's Hottest Year Ever, Surpassing Critical 1.5 degree Celsius Warming Limit
In 2024, Earth recorded its hottest year ever, surpassing the critical 1.5 degree Celsius warming threshold for the first time in history. This significant temperature increase has been linked to intensified weather events, rising sea levels, and widespread environmental damage. The year saw an alarming rise in climate-related disasters, with the U...
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PFAS Chemicals Harm Freshwater Turtles in Australia, New Research Finds
Recent studies have highlighted the alarming effects of PFAS (forever chemicals) on freshwater turtles in Australia. The research, led by environmental biochemist David Beale and his team, discovered that PFAS exposure is causing serious health issues in both adult turtles and their hatchlings. The chemicals accumulate in key organs like the liver,...
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Crystal-Based Cooling Technology Could Offer Sustainable Solution for Fridges and Air Conditioners
A new crystal-based cooling technology could significantly reduce the environmental impact of refrigerators and air conditioners. The unique plastic crystals absorb heat under pressure, providing a climate-friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. However, challenges remain, such as the extreme pressures required for operation. Experts expr...
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Why OpenAI Plans Transition to Public Benefit Corporation
OpenAI is planning to transition its for-profit arm into a Delaware public benefit corporation (PBC). The aim is to raise capital. While both PBCs and traditional corporations are for-profit entities, PBCs are legally required to pursue one or more public benefits, including social and environmental goals.
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Environmental Impact of ISS Deorbit in 2031 Raises Concerns on Oceans and Atmosphere
The International Space Station (ISS) is set for a controlled deorbit in 2031, with plans to disintegrate over the South Pacific's remote Point Nemo. While NASA’s approach aims to reduce risks, concerns have been raised about the environmental impacts. Researchers highlight potential effects on Earth’s upper atmosphere, which remain poorly unde...
-
Saudi Arabia's Mega-City Neom Could Change Weather Patterns, Warns Insider
Donald Wuebbles, a University of Illinois professor of atmospheric science, who serves as a paid adviser to Neom, issued the warning.
-
New Study Reveals Recent Ice Gains in Antarctica, But Long-Term Melting Continues
A study led by researchers at Tongji University using NASA's GRACE satellites has observed recent ice gains in Antarctica from 2021 to 2023, mainly due to unusual precipitation. However, the long-term satellite data from 2002 to 2020 shows a significant and accelerating trend of ice loss. However, experts emphasize this short-term gain does not rev...
-
"Green Tech Alone Won't Save Us": Experts Warn Of Insufficient Progress Amid Climate Crisis
The rapid growth of green technology innovation may not be sufficient to address the escalating climate crisis and ecological scarcity.
-
World’s Largest Iceberg A23a Grounds Near South Georgia, Raising Wildlife and Environmental Concerns
The world’s largest iceberg, A23a, has run aground near South Georgia, a key wildlife haven. Scientists are monitoring its impact on marine life, particularly on penguins and seals, as it could disrupt feeding routes. Some experts suggest the iceberg may also enhance ocean productivity by releasing nutrients. If it fragments, it may pose risks to...
-
Scientists Find Wastewater Bacteria That Break Down PET Plastic, Aiding Pollution Control
Research has revealed that bacteria commonly found in wastewater can break down PET plastic, a widely used material in bottles and textiles. Scientists identified a specific enzyme responsible for degrading the plastic into smaller particles. While experts see promise in this discovery, concerns remain about its scalability for tackling large-scale...
-
Scientists Detect Rising Microplastics in Human Brains, Study Raises Concerns
A study has found microplastics in human brains, with concentrations rising over recent years. Researchers suggest possible links to dementia, but some experts question the findings due to potential flaws in the analysis. While microplastics have been previously detected in human bodies, their impact on brain health remains unclear. Scientists call...
-
Historical Records Unveil 16th Century Transylvania’s Climate Struggles
Centuries-old records from Transylvania offer insight into the extreme climate events of the 1500s. Researchers examined handwritten manuscripts in multiple languages to trace shifts in temperature, droughts, and floods. The study reveals how people endured environmental hardships, including famine and disease. Evidence suggests the Little Ice Age ...
-
Microplastics Found in Human Brain Tissue, Study Shows Rising Levels
A study has detected microplastics and nanoplastics in human brain tissue, showing a 50 percent increase in levels over recent years. The findings suggest these particles may bypass the blood-brain barrier, leading to concerns over potential health effects. Experts are now focusing on how these plastics enter the brain and their possible role in ne...
-
SpaceX Starship Flight 7 Explosion Raises Concerns Over Air Pollution
The explosion of SpaceX’s Starship Flight 7 in mid-January has raised concerns among scientists about atmospheric pollution. The upper stage, weighing 85 tons without fuel, detonated at 90 miles (146 km) above Earth, potentially releasing 45.5 metric tons of metal oxides and 40 metric tons of nitrogen oxides. Experts warn these pollutants could i...
-
Polar Bear Fur's Natural Oil Prevents Ice Build-Up, Study Finds
Scientists have uncovered a surprising feature of polar bear fur: a natural oil that prevents ice accumulation. Unlike penguins, which rely on feather structure, polar bears benefit from a chemical composition that keeps their fur ice-free. A study published in Science Advances found that unwashed polar bear fur performed as well as high-performanc...
-
2024 Marks Earth's Hottest Year Ever, Surpassing Critical 1.5 degree Celsius Warming Limit
In 2024, Earth recorded its hottest year ever, surpassing the critical 1.5 degree Celsius warming threshold for the first time in history. This significant temperature increase has been linked to intensified weather events, rising sea levels, and widespread environmental damage. The year saw an alarming rise in climate-related disasters, with the U...
-
PFAS Chemicals Harm Freshwater Turtles in Australia, New Research Finds
Recent studies have highlighted the alarming effects of PFAS (forever chemicals) on freshwater turtles in Australia. The research, led by environmental biochemist David Beale and his team, discovered that PFAS exposure is causing serious health issues in both adult turtles and their hatchlings. The chemicals accumulate in key organs like the liver,...
-
Crystal-Based Cooling Technology Could Offer Sustainable Solution for Fridges and Air Conditioners
A new crystal-based cooling technology could significantly reduce the environmental impact of refrigerators and air conditioners. The unique plastic crystals absorb heat under pressure, providing a climate-friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. However, challenges remain, such as the extreme pressures required for operation. Experts expr...
-
Why OpenAI Plans Transition to Public Benefit Corporation
OpenAI is planning to transition its for-profit arm into a Delaware public benefit corporation (PBC). The aim is to raise capital. While both PBCs and traditional corporations are for-profit entities, PBCs are legally required to pursue one or more public benefits, including social and environmental goals.
-
Environmental Impact of ISS Deorbit in 2031 Raises Concerns on Oceans and Atmosphere
The International Space Station (ISS) is set for a controlled deorbit in 2031, with plans to disintegrate over the South Pacific's remote Point Nemo. While NASA’s approach aims to reduce risks, concerns have been raised about the environmental impacts. Researchers highlight potential effects on Earth’s upper atmosphere, which remain poorly unde...
