Between 59 and 51 million years ago, Earth underwent significant climatic transformations known as the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) and the Eocene Thermal Maximum 2 (ETM-2). These epochs were marked by extensive warming periods, characterized by both gradual changes over millions of years and abrupt warming events, often referred to as hyperthermals. Such drastic climate
Earth
The Guliya Glacier, perched high in the Tibetan Plateau, presents a remarkable opportunity for scientists to delve deep into the past and understand how climate change has influenced life on Earth. An intriguing new study highlights how glacial ice, often viewed as a frozen relic, serves as a remarkable archive containing ancient viruses that carry
A recent extensive study conducted by prominent health experts at Northwestern University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has raised alarming concerns about public perceptions of water safety. With more than half of adults surveyed across 141 countries expressing fears of possible harm from drinking water within the next two years, this
The vast expanse of the ocean is not just a captivating natural wonder; it plays a crucial role in Earth’s climate system. When ocean waves crash and break, tiny particles known as sea spray aerosols are released into the atmosphere. These aerosols, predominantly composed of salt, are not merely inert particles; they significantly influence cloud
The Cascadia subduction zone, a geological fault line extending from Northern California to British Columbia, has long been recognized for its seismic potential. Throughout history, this region has experienced devastating earthquakes, with its last notable event recorded in 1700. Such quakes have not only reshaped the landscape but also generated tsunamis that traveled vast distances,
The urgency of addressing climate change is a topic that has gained immense traction over the past decade, culminating in various international commitments aimed at capping global warming to under 1.5 degrees Celsius by the century’s end. One of the advanced strategies proposed is the utilization of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, which involve
Over the past seventy years, scholars have increasingly come to a consensus that humanity’s influence on the planet has escalated to a point where it warrants recognition as a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene. Julia Adeney Thomas, a historian from the University of Notre Dame, emphasizes the gravity of this claim, stating that, despite its
The emergence of microplastics in marine ecosystems has triggered alarm bells among scientists and environmentalists alike. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles measuring less than 5mm, have infiltrated every corner of the ocean—from the surface waters to the deep-sea beds. This pervasive pollution not only poses risks to marine life but also threatens human health through the
Human-induced climate change has been predominantly driven by greenhouse gas emissions since the mid-20th century, with agriculture identified as a significant contributor. Among the various agricultural sectors, the U.S. beef industry stands out; it alone accounts for approximately 3.3% of the nation’s total emissions. Although collaborative efforts within the beef sector have led to some
California has long been recognized for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity, but a growing threat looms over the state: post-wildfire erosion. As climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of wildfires, especially in the last three decades, researchers have illuminated the alarming rise in erosion rates and its devastating implications. This unique phenomenon does not
As the effects of climate change become more apparent, a pressing issue is unfolding: the competition between agricultural land and forested areas for timber production. A recent study from the University of Cambridge highlights the significant shifts in land suitability that global warming is provoking—transforming areas currently dedicated to timber into fertile sites for crops.
The history of Earth recounts tales of evolution and extinction, but few chapters are as damaging yet enlightening as the oceanic anoxic events that occurred between 185 and 85 million years ago. Recent research from a collective of international scientists, led by experts from the University of Southampton, shines new light on this tumultuous period.
As the global climate crisis continues to accelerate, cities in the Global South face unique challenges that threaten the health and well-being of their residents. Recent research underscores a startling disparity in the “cooling capacity” provided by urban green spaces between the Global North and South. This differential, which calculates the effectiveness of greenery in
As summer draws to a close, many individuals seek solace in rivers and streams, particularly during the Labor Day weekend. While these aquatic escapades are often perceived as a harmless means to cool off and socialize, recent research conducted by Johns Hopkins University unveils a more complex reality. This study, which represents a pioneering effort
The Mediterranean Sea has long been a focal point for marine biodiversity studies, due in part to its unique geological history and ecological significance. A recent study, spearheaded by Konstantina Agiadi from the University of Vienna, sheds new light on the biotic responses to a significant ecological event that transpired about 5.5 million years ago,