Sustainability
Title: "Resilience in the Eye of the Storm
Part 1: The Calm Before the Storm The sun-drenched beaches of Acapulco, Mexico, had always been a haven for tourists and a paradise for the locals. The tranquil azure waters, swaying palm trees, and vibrant culture made this coastal city a beloved destination for thousands. But on a fateful day in September, the picturesque scenery would transform into a nightmarish battleground.
By Angel Jacobs2 years ago in Earth
Restoring Earth's Carbon Cycle
The world has seen remarkable changes over the last thousand years, from the rise and fall of empires to advances in technology. Yet, amid this ever-evolving landscape, one constant remained – the levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. For centuries, Earth's delicate carbon cycle maintained equilibrium. However, in the late 18th century, a monumental shift occurred as carbon dioxide levels began to rise. In the 20th century, this rise reached unprecedented heights, unseen in millions of years. The increase in atmospheric carbon has emerged as the leading driver of climate change, and the key to reversing this damage lies in restoring our planet's intricately balanced carbon cycle.
By Nathan Hall2 years ago in Earth
The Buzz About Bees:
Bees are small creatures that play an enormous role in the delicate web of life on Earth. Their buzzing presence in our gardens, fields, and orchards may be taken for granted, but the consequences of their potential disappearance would be catastrophic. Bees, both honeybees and wild bees, are vital pollinators that contribute to the production of a significant portion of the world's food supply. If all the bees were to die, the repercussions would be far-reaching, impacting not only our food system but also ecosystems, economies, and the overall health of our planet.
By Jeffrey Correa2 years ago in Earth
The Ocean's Changing Colors: A Clue to Climate Change 🌎
The mesmerizing beauty of the deep blue sea has captivated humans for generations, but what we see is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the colors of the ocean. Beneath the familiar azure surface lies a world of colors we can't even perceive. The health of the ocean, it turns out, is intricately connected to these hidden colors, and scientists are now using satellite technology to detect changes that might be attributed to climate change. In this article, we will explore how the color of the ocean is more than just a visual spectacle and how scientists are unraveling its mysteries.When we gaze at the ocean, we see a stunning shade of blue, but this color isn't arbitrary. It results from the interaction of light with the various components of seawater. The ocean absorbs and reflects different wavelengths of light, with blue being the prominent color that gets reflected back to our eyes. But the ocean's color is not static; it can change due to several factors. Particles in the water, like sand or silt, can introduce red hues, making the water appear different shades. The presence of phytoplankton, tiny marine organisms that contain chlorophyll and are naturally green, can also impact the color of the ocean. When phytoplankton populations thrive, the ocean takes on a greener hue. While these color shifts might go unnoticed by the human eye, they are significant indicators of the ocean's health. In particular, scientists are keen on tracking the "green-ness" of the ocean, as it offers insights into the state of the marine ecosystem. Phytoplankton form the base of the ocean's food web, and their abundance directly affects the overall health of the ocean's inhabitants. To measure these subtle changes in ocean color, scientists rely on satellites. Given the vast expanse of the ocean, satellites provide the only feasible means to collect consistent and comprehensive data on its color. However, the challenge lies in reconciling data from different satellites with various instruments and detectors. These discrepancies in data create obstacles when trying to discern meaningful trends. Phytoplankton's chlorophyll content, which is a vital indicator of the ocean's health, can be incredibly variable, both seasonally and annually. This variability means that obtaining a clear understanding of chlorophyll trends necessitates an extensive dataset spanning decades, all collected by the same instrument in a standardized format. In practical terms, this is a significant challenge as most satellites have limited lifespans. For instance, even though we have enjoyed the prolonged success of the Hubble Space Telescope, most satellites in Earth's orbit do not last as long. In recent developments, researchers from the UK and the US have introduced a promising solution. They propose using remote-sensing reflectance (Rrs), a parameter that measures the wavelengths of light bouncing off the ocean surface and returning to the satellite. Unlike chlorophyll, which relies on a single wavelength, Rrs averages information across various wavelengths. This multi-wavelength approach minimizes the inherent variability in the data, resulting in cleaner and more reliable results. The key advantage of Rrs is that it necessitates a shorter dataset to draw meaningful conclusions, requiring approximately 20 years of data to infer trends. Fortunately, the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), located aboard NASA's Aqua satellite, has been collecting Rrs data for two decades. MODIS's mission, which initially aimed to last only six years, has provided invaluable insights into various aspects of Earth's environment. By analyzing the Rrs data, researchers have identified a significant change in the color of the oceans since 2002. Surprisingly, this green-ification of the oceans is not directly related to sea surface temperature changes. Instead, it appears to align with predictions made by climate models, which anticipated color changes in roughly 50% of the ocean's surface. While the exact reasons behind this shift in color remain elusive, its connection to climate change is becoming increasingly evident. The greening of the oceans represents another facet of the complex effects of climate change. While we tend to associate climate change primarily with rising temperatures, it is a multi-faceted phenomenon that brings about various transformations. The change in the color of the oceans serves as a stark reminder that the climate crisis is not limited to warming; it impacts diverse parameters simultaneously. The consequences of these changes are far-reaching. Alterations in ocean communities can have profound effects on fisheries and marine ecosystems, requiring adjustments in our approach to conservation and resource management. Moreover, the redistribution and changes in plankton populations may have implications for carbon storage in the oceans. Phytoplankton play a crucial role in absorbing carbon emissions, making the oceans a critical ally in mitigating climate change. Any shift in this system deserves close attention. The beauty of the ocean extends far beyond its captivating blue surface. Beneath the waves, subtle changes in color tell a story of ecological health and evolving environmental conditions. Thanks to satellite technology and parameters like remote-sensing reflectance (Rrs), scientists can now decode these colors to better understand the ocean's complex ecosystems and their responses to climate change. The surprising greening of the oceans provides valuable insights into the broader impact of climate change, beyond temperature changes alone. As researchers continue to investigate this intriguing phenomenon, we may gain a deeper understanding of the ocean's vital role in our fight against climate change and the importance of preserving its delicate ecosystems. The unexpected longevity of instruments like MODIS aboard NASA's Aqua satellite underscores the importance of ongoing scientific observation and exploration, even when missions exceed their original expectations.
By Rakindu Perera2 years ago in Earth
THE SILENT WITNESSES
In a world progressively characterized by its natural difficulties, the Intergovernmental Board on Environmental Change (IPCC) remains as a guide of logical understanding, winding around together the mind boggling story of our planet's evolving environment. The reports gave by the IPCC act as quiet observers to the significant movements happening in our biological systems and weather conditions, giving both an unmistakable admonition and a guide for reasonable activity.
By Udeme Mark2 years ago in Earth
Are We Going to Live on the Moon Soon. Content Warning.
People have not set foot on the moon in several decades, but the situation is soon to change. NASA's Artemis program is planning to send a few missions to Earth's natural satellite. The first astronauts may step on the surface of the moon as early as 2025, as part of Artemis 3, if the current schedule holds. Following this, the next stage will commence, which will be an even more ambitious project than sending humans to the moon again. NASA aims to construct a large base camp at the South Pole of our satellite. This outpost will assist the Artemis mission in surpassing the previous record for the longest stay on the moon, which currently stands at 74 hours, 59 minutes, and 38 seconds. Additionally, the camp will serve as a launching point for missions venturing into deep space. Initially, the camp will be small, accommodating missions for a week or two.
By Faith Kinyanjui2 years ago in Earth
Tackling the Tropospheric Trends: Reducing Ruminant Rumblings 🌍
Cattle farming is a major source of methane emissions, a greenhouse gas that is warming the planet. With over 1.5 billion cows worldwide that each emit up to 220 pounds of methane per year through belching and flatulence, enteric methane from livestock accounts for about 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. As the international community works to reduce global methane by 30% by 2030 through initiatives like the United Nations Global Methane Pledge, addressing methane from cattle is a key part of the climate solution. While reducing beef consumption would lower emissions, changing human diets on a global scale presents difficulties. Researchers are thus exploring diet-based solutions directly targeted at cattle to lower their methane output. One promising avenue being studied involves supplementing cattle feed with seaweed. The reason cattle produce large amounts of methane is due to their specialized digestion system. Their four-compartment stomach, particularly the largest one called the rumen, hosts microbes that break down tough plant fibers through enteric fermentation. This enzymatic process provides calories and nutrients to the cow but also generates methane as a byproduct. The cow then belches this methane, releasing it into the atmosphere. Methane emissions can be influenced by diet—foods like grass and hay that remain in the rumen longer tend to produce more methane than grains like corn. Researchers are thus investigating food additives that can tweak cattle diets to suppress methane-producing enzymes or microbes in the rumen. One such additive showing potent methane-reducing effects is a species of red seaweed. In 2018, a study led by Dr. Ermias Kebreab at UC Davis found that adding dried red seaweed to cattle feed slashed methane emissions by over 95% in Australian cows. In 2021, Kebreab's team successfully replicated these results in a live trial with dairy cows in California, observing an 82% decrease in methane. The key compound in this seaweed responsible for its anti-methane properties is bromoform, which suppresses the enzyme that generates methane during digestion. Remarkably, the seaweed does not negatively impact the cows' health, growth, or milk production. Other feed additives under investigation include fatty acids and extracts from plants like oregano and cinnamon bark. Fatty acids work by altering rumen microbes and limiting carbohydrate fermentation, while botanical essential oils may curb specific methane-producing bacteria. Kebreab notes seaweed has been the most potent additive identified so far. Its widespread cultivation also has environmental co-benefits, as seaweed farming does not compete for scarce resources like freshwater. Seaweed growth could aid in combating ocean acidification caused by rising carbon dioxide levels as well. While seaweed shows tremendous promise, scaling up its use faces logistical hurdles. Dried seaweed is heavy and transporting from subtropical farms to cattle operations in places like the continental U.S. risks negating emissions reductions through increased shipping. Packaging and distribution must be optimized to deliver seaweed economically. More research is also needed to assess if the bromoform compound could potentially impact cow or human health with long-term exposure. Additionally, a recent Australian study found the same seaweed variety only reduced cattle methane by under 30%, indicating effects may vary. No single solution will suffice, and a portfolio of options is required. Alternative feed additives are still in development. Genetic selection of cattle that naturally produce less methane is another potential avenue. Improving grazing land management practices and manure treatment can further lower outputs. Most importantly, reducing overconsumption of red meat through dietary shifts and supporting plant-based alternatives will significantly curb emissions. With continued innovation and global cooperation through initiatives like the UN Methane Pledge, scientists are working to deploy practical methane mitigation strategies on cattle farms worldwide one step at a time. The ultimate goal is developing robust solutions that protect both the climate and vital food production systems in a sustainable manner.
By Rakindu Perera2 years ago in Earth
The Changing Landscape of Solar Power in the United States 🔋 🇺🇸
America's relationship with solar power has evolved rapidly over the past decade. As leaders set ambitious climate goals and demand for renewable energy rises, utilities have scrambled to build utility-scale solar farms across vast stretches of open land. However, this approach has not been without controversy. In many rural regions, massive solar installations have disrupted fragile desert ecosystems and farmland. "Joshua trees are torn down to make way for solar projects," lament critics. As piles of bulldozed trees attest, projects have caused an uproar by altering plant and animal habitats on a large scale. Agriculture advocates also argue valuable farmland is being lost. Looking ahead, finding suitable land to build solar at the necessary scale remains a challenge. According to studies, over half of utility-scale solar facilities already utilize deserts. Another third occupy croplands, with the remaining facilities situated in grasslands and forests. Urban areas, accounting for just 2.5% of installations thus far, represent an untapped resource. Photovoltaics researcher Joshua Pearce has studied solar power for two decades. He believes parking lots could help address solar's land problem, if covered with canopies of solar panels. "There is an awful lot of parking lot space in the United States that we can take advantage of that's already essentially unused," notes Pearce. "It's wasted space except for parking underneath it. And it's not even used most of the time."Many US cities were designed decades ago prioritizing cars over other modes of transportation. As a result, parking lots cover over 5% of developed urban land nationwide. Repurposing these concrete jungles could generate significant solar capacity without disturbing natural habitats or farmland. France is already embracing this model. A 2023 policy will require outdoor parking lots with over 80 spaces to cover at least half their surface with solar panels. Officials estimate this could add the equivalent power of ten nuclear plants worth of solar. Most importantly, parking lot solar utilizes cleared space close to existing infrastructure and customers. The benefits don't stop at energy generation. Canopies provide valuable shade for overheating vehicles while covering from snow. On hot days, shaded asphalt could even help combat urban heat islands. However, significant obstacles remain for parking lot solar to take off in the US. Chiefly, canopies are much more expensive - 50% to 100% pricier - than ground-mounted farms. Their elevated design requires extra structural support and anchoring to withstand high winds. For companies to recoup this higher upfront investment, strong policies and electricity pricing are needed. To better understand solar canopies' economic potential, Pearce co-authored a 2017 study using Walmart Supercenters as a model. Surprisingly, the researchers found canopies could turn a profit even in lower sun areas like Michigan through selling power to the grid. At Walmart stores nationwide, canopy capacity was estimated at a massive 11.1 gigawatts - comparable to France's parking lot goal. Pairing canopies with rooftop panels at each location would likely generate more than enough electricity to power operations. Stores could also sell excess power to the local utility or act as anchors for community microgrids during outages. While canopies may not be practical everywhere, Pearce's work demonstrates their viability as renewable investments in the right high-flux, high-traffic locations. If more US companies and policymakers embrace the concept, parking lots represent untapped potential to meaningfully advance the nation's clean energy transition. By putting underused urban spaces to work generating hometown power, solar canopies offer a win-win approach balancing climate, economic and community needs. As the landscape of solar development continues evolving, parking lot installations deserve stronger consideration. With conscious planning, they could help address criticisms of sprawling desert and farm projects while bringing solar's benefits closer to the nearly 80% of Americans living in urban areas. By leveraging existing infrastructure in our cities, canopy solar points the way towards a renewable future defining new purpose in overlooked asphalt wastelands.
By Rakindu Perera2 years ago in Earth
