
<p>In a stark update on the deteriorating condition of our planet, an international assembly of climate experts has reported that the Earth’s vital signs have declined to levels never before witnessed in human history. This critical state threatens the very fabric of life on our planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-scientific-consensus">Unprecedented scientific consensus</h2>



<p>Led by William Ripple, a prominent figure from the Oregon State University <a href="https://www.forestry.oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Forestry</a>, and Christopher Wolf, formerly associated with OSU, a team comprising 12 scientists has delivered a grim prognosis on Earth&#8217;s vital signs in their paper published in <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/biosci/biad080" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioScience</a></em>. </p>



<p>Titled &#8220;The 2023 State of the climate report: Entering uncharted territory,&#8221; the study underscores that a staggering 20 out of 35 planetary vital signs used as barometers for climate health have hit record extremes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-world-on-the-brink">World on the brink</h2>



<p>&#8220;Without decisive steps to address the fundamental issue of humanity&#8217;s overconsumption of the Earth&#8217;s resources, we are navigating towards the potential disintegration of natural and socioeconomic systems,&#8221; Wolf stated, painting a picture of a future marred by intolerable heat, food scarcity, and water shortages.</p>



<p>The authors highlight alarming data from 2023, pointing out that numerous records related to climate and Earth&#8217;s vital signs have been shattered &#8220;by enormous margins.&#8221; This includes unprecedented ocean temperatures, drastic reductions in sea ice, and an extraordinary Canadian wildfire season contributing to record levels of carbon dioxide emissions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echoes-of-past-warnings">Echoes of past warnings</h2>



<p>This report is not the first of its kind. It follows a significant &#8220;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-pushed-earth-to-code-red/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Scientists’ Warning of a Climate Emergency</a>&#8221; published four years ago, where Ripple, alongside other collaborators, received support from over 15,000 scientists from 161 countries. </p>



<p>Despite these earlier calls to action, little progress has been made, with Ripple emphasizing, &#8220;Life on our planet is unmistakably under assault.&#8221;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-climate-health-statistics">Alarming climate health statistics</h2>



<p>The report lays bare several shocking statistics that outline why Earth&#8217;s vital signs are at an all-time low.</p>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-chief-fossil-fuel-era-must-end-for-humanitys-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fossil fuel</a> subsidies saw a staggering increase from $531 billion to over $1 trillion between 2021 and 2022, incentivizing harmful emissions.<br></li>



<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-amplify-risks-for-socially-vulnerable-populations-in-western-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildfires</a> in Canada alone have already contributed more than 1 gigaton of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere in 2023, surpassing the nation&#8217;s total greenhouse gas emissions the previous year.<br></li>



<li>A concerning trend in global temperature rise, with 38 days already recorded where temperatures were more than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limiting-global-warming-to-1-5-degrees-celsius-would-save-billions-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1.5 degrees Celsius</a> above pre-industrial levels.<br></li>



<li>July experienced the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/july-was-earths-hottest-month-in-120000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">highest average</a> Earth surface temperature on record, likely the most extreme in the last 100,000 years.</li>
</ul>



<p>Wolf expressed deep concern, stating, &#8220;As scientists, the sudden escalation in the frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters is deeply unsettling.&#8221;</p>



<p>The study cautions that these disasters&#8217; frequency and intensity might even be accelerating faster than temperature rises. The paper forecasts a dire future, where 3 to 6 billion people will find themselves in uninhabitable conditions by the end of this century.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-vital-signs-need-transformative-policies">Earth&#8217;s vital signs need transformative policies</h2>



<p>The scientific community is advocating for policies that address &#8220;ecological overshoot,&#8221; a scenario where humanity&#8217;s demands exceed the Earth&#8217;s capacity, resulting in numerous environmental crises, including a decline in biodiversity.</p>



<p>They argue that solutions focusing solely on carbon or climate will fall short of repairing Earth&#8217;s vital signs unless the overarching pressures on global systems are alleviated. As Ripple puts it, the scientific community has a &#8220;moral duty&#8221; to guide humanity away from potential existential threats and lead action-driven dialogues.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steering-towards-a-just-sustainable-future">Steering towards a just, sustainable future</h2>



<p>The paper calls for a comprehensive overhaul of global economic practices. The authors of the study urge a transition that foregrounds human well-being, curtails excessive consumption, and drastically reduces affluent populations&#8217; emissions.</p>



<p>Key policy recommendations to reverse the decline of Earth&#8217;s vital signs include:</p>



<ul>
<li>Eliminating fossil fuel subsidies.<br></li>



<li>Encouraging shifts towards plant-based diets.<br></li>



<li>Amplifying efforts to protect global forest areas.<br></li>



<li>Establishing international treaties focused on eliminating coal and preventing new fossil fuel exploration.</li>
</ul>



<p>The authors underscore the necessity for equity and social justice in all climate-related decisions. They clearly recognize the disproportionate impact of climate calamities on the world&#8217;s most impoverished populations, who have the smallest carbon footprints.</p>



<p>In a world where climate-related disasters are becoming the norm rather than the exception, this clarion call from the scientific community is more urgent than ever. It implores global leaders, decision-makers, and individuals alike to embark on a more sustainable path, with the understanding that the very future of life on Earth hinges on the actions humanity takes now.</p>



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Life under siege: Earth’s vital signs reach an all-time low

<p>In the coolness of evening, bull <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/these-us-zoos-have-horrific-living-conditions-for-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> gather at a waterhole to drink. After a while, a senior male signals the group to move on with a deep rumble. One by one, the others respond, their infrasonic calls creating a harmonious chorus that echoes across the savanna, indicating it's time to leave.</p>



<p>For the first time, scientists from <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a> and other institutions have documented male elephants using these “let's go” rumbles to coordinate group departures from the Mushara waterhole in Etosha National Park, Namibia. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sophisticated-vocal-coordination-nbsp">Sophisticated vocal coordination&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephants-use-specific-names-to-address-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vocalization behavior</a>, initiated by the most socially integrated and dominant males, was previously thought to be exclusive to female elephants in family groups.</p>



<p>“We were astonished to find that male elephants, typically considered to have loose social ties, engage in such sophisticated vocal coordination to trigger action,” said study lead author Caitlin O’Connell-Rodwell, a research associate at Stanford University’s Center for Conservation Biology.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These calls show us that there’s much more going on within their vocal communication than has previously been known.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recording-the-elephant-rumbles-nbsp">Recording the elephant rumbles&nbsp;</h2>



<p>O’Connell-Rodwell first recorded the male “let’s go” rumble in 2004 during nighttime fieldwork to understand how elephant vocalizations travel through the ground.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“I was so excited when I managed to record it,” she recalled. “It was thrilling to realize that these males were using complex vocal coordination like the females were.”</p>



<p>From 2005 to 2017, the team collected data at the Mushara waterhole, mainly during the dry seasons. They used high-tech recording equipment, including buried microphones and night-vision video cameras, to capture the infrasonic vocalizations and behaviors of male elephants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers analyzed the vocalizations for acoustic properties and patterns, using social network analysis to understand relationships and hierarchy among the males, noting which elephants initiated the rumbles, how others responded, and the sequence of events leading to the coordinated departures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-let-s-go-rumbles-are-learned-behaviors-nbsp">“Let's go” rumbles are learned behaviors&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The “let’s go” rumbles observed in male elephants are strikingly similar to those recorded in female elephants. O’Connell-Rodwell and her team hypothesize that male elephants likely learn this behavior when they are young.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“They grew up in a family where all the female leaders were engaging in this ritual,” she said. “We think that as they mature and form their own groups, they adapt and use these learned behaviors to coordinate with other males.”</p>



<p>Both male and female elephants follow a turn-taking pattern in their rumbles, creating a harmonious vocal coordination akin to a barbershop quartet. “It’s very synchronized and ritualized. When one goes high, the other goes low, and they have this vocal space where they’re coordinating,” she explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-language-of-elephants-nbsp">The language of elephants&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study builds on previous research that used AI to reveal that wild elephants have unique names for each other, indicating the use of nouns in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-disrupts-communication-among-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a>. </p>



<p>“In our paper, we show that elephants are using verbs in the form of this ‘let’s go’ rumble. If they are using noun-verb combinations together, that is syntax. That is language,” said O’Connell-Rodwell.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mentoring-roles-of-dominant-males-nbsp">Mentoring roles of dominant males&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study also highlights the mentoring roles of some dominant male elephants within their social groups, helping to maintain cohesion and stability.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These individuals take on mentoring roles,” noted O’Connell-Rodwell. “They care about these young whippersnappers who are very needy and always wanting to be in physical contact. The older males are willing to take them under their wing, to guide them, share resources with them, and partake in their emotional ups and downs.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-lives-of-male-elephants-nbsp">Social lives of male elephants&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In countries that allow hunting, care should be taken to avoid hunting older socially connected male elephants, as their removal could disrupt social cohesion and mentoring structures within elephant populations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research also suggests that strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-bonds-can-ease-stress-among-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social bonds</a> and interactions are essential for the well-being of captive and semi-captive male elephants, highlighting the need for environments that support these social structures.</p>



<p>“Our findings not only underscore the complexity and richness of the social lives of male elephants, but also advance our understanding of how they use vocalizations in ritual and coordination and, really, move us closer to the idea of elephant language,” O’Connell-Rodwell concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://peerj.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PeerJ</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>-----</p>



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Bull elephants use deep rumbles to say ‘let’s go’

In the coolness of evening, bull elephants gather at a...

<p>In an era where sustainable practices are gaining increasing momentum, hydrogel has emerged as a game-changer in the field of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/">agr</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farmers-adopt-regenerative-agriculture-better-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iculture</a>.</p>



<p>Imagine a type of soil that can hydrate plants and control the release of nutrients as needed. This is no longer a distant concept. </p>



<p>A new smart soil represents a revolutionary approach to managing farms and gardens, making agriculture more efficient and eco-friendly.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birth-of-a-revolutionary-material-hydrogel">Birth of a revolutionary material: hydrogel</h2>



<p>The research was conducted at <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Texas at Austin</a>. The key to this smart soil is an ingenious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-hydrogel-can-extract-unlimited-amounts-of-water-from-the-air-even-in-deserts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrogel material</a> developed by the researchers. This material can absorb water and nutrients, releasing them in controlled amounts as needed by the plants.</p>



<p>In a series of tests, the soil infused with hydrogel nurtured healthier, larger plants compared to their regular soil counterparts, and it did so more efficiently, requiring less water and fewer nutrients. </p>



<p>The hydrogel's capacity to retain moisture and nutrients minimizes waste and ensures that plants receive optimal care.</p>



<p>Jungjoon Park is a graduate student in the Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering who led the research. “This new gel technology can reduce the burden on farmers by decreasing the need for frequent irrigation and fertilization," said Park. </p>



<p>He continued by noting the versatility of the technology that makes it adoptable across varying climates, from arid regions to temperate areas. </p>



<p>This adaptability is crucial as it means that farmers in different parts of the world can benefit from this innovation regardless of the local climate conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-water-scarcity">Addressing water scarcity </h2>



<p>In the modern world, agriculture is responsible for an alarming 70% of global freshwater withdrawals, with figures reaching up to 95% in some developing countries. </p>



<p>As global population numbers continue to increase, improving the efficiency of water usage in farming practices has never been more critical. </p>



<p>Traditional farming techniques pose several challenges, including inefficient water usage, land degradation, and over-exposure of nutrients leading to pollution. </p>



<p>These problems not only affect the environment but also the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices.</p>



<p>"The global water scarcity coupled with a growing population has an immediate impact on food security," said study co-author Professor Guihua Yu. He emphasized that the new class of hydrogels can provide a viable solution to combat water scarcity and promote efficient nutrient uptake.</p>



<p>The development of such innovative solutions is crucial in ensuring that agriculture can meet the demands of a growing population without depleting the planet's resources.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-impact-of-hydrogel">The impact of hydrogel</h2>



<p>In a head-to-head comparison, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/autophagy-what-makes-plant-roots-grow-faster-stronger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> rooted in the new hydrogel soil saw a staggering 138 percent increase in stem length compared to plants in regular soil.</p>



<p>Furthermore, this smart soil achieved water savings of about 40 percent. This will significantly reduce the need for regular irrigation and promote robust crop development.</p>



<p>The impressive results highlight the potential of hydrogel-infused soil to revolutionize agricultural practices.</p>



<p>The fascinating research draws on previous findings about hydrogels' ability to extract water from the atmosphere, making farming practices more efficient.</p>



<p>The study is part of a broader mission to increase access to clean water worldwide, a commitment dating back to the professor's early life.</p>



<p>By harnessing the power of hydrogels, researchers are not only improving agricultural efficiency but also contributing to global efforts to ensure that clean water is available to all.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-hydrogel-soil">The future of hydrogel soil</h2>



<p>While the present research primarily focuses on calcium-based fertilizers, the scientists plan to continue their work. </p>



<p>Future steps include integrating various types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-emissions-from-fertilizers-could-be-cut-by-80-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fertilizers</a> and conducting extensive field tests. These tests will help determine the full range of benefits that hydrogel-infused soil can offer and how it can be best utilized in different agricultural settings.</p>



<p>With such promising results already unveiled, it is safe to say that we may be on the cusp of a major shift in agriculture, heralding a new era of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-farming-is-good-for-farmers-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable farming</a>.</p>



<p>The potential for hydrogel soil to transform agricultural practices and promote sustainability is immense, and future research will undoubtedly reveal even more exciting possibilities.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsmaterialslett.4c01120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Materials Letters</a></em>. </p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Smart soil can absorb water from the air and feed itself

In an era where sustainable practices are gaining increasing momentum,...

<p>A microscopic marvel of our planet, the bdelloid rotifer, is an aquatic critter not much larger than the width of a hair. Fascinatingly, these tiny creatures can arm themselves against infections using "stolen" antibiotics from bacteria.</p>



<p>This intriguing discovery was made by researchers at the University of Oxford, <a href="https://www.stir.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Stirling</a>, and the Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rotifers-shaping-the-future-of-antibiotics">Rotifers: Shaping the future of antibiotics</h2>



<p>No bigger than a quarter of a millimeter, these bdelloid rotifers are resourceful survivors. When exposed to a potentially fatal fungal infection, they activate hundreds of bacterial and microbial genes they possess. </p>



<p>These genes churn out a diverse arsenal of antimicrobial weapons, including antibiotics, to fend off the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistance-increasing-enterococci-looming-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invading pathogens</a>.</p>



<p>"When we translated the DNA code to see what the stolen genes were doing, we had a surprise. The main genes were instructions for chemicals that we didn't think animals could make - they looked like recipes for antibiotics,” noted Chris Wilson, from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, a co-author involved in this study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magic-of-evolution">Magic of evolution</h2>



<p>Research has shown that bdelloid rotifers have been absorbing DNA from their environment for millions of years. However, this recent study is the first to document these creatures utilizing the absorbed genes as an effective defense mechanism against diseases.</p>



<p>Borrowing genes from other organisms is not a common animal trait. This unusual ability of rotifers has captivated David Mark Welch, senior scientist and director of the Josephine Bay Paul Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory. </p>



<p>“These complex genes were acquired from bacteria but have undergone evolution in rotifers," said Welch.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-rotifers-be-the-key-to-better-antibiotics">Could rotifers be the key to better antibiotics?</h2>



<p>Exploring the rotifers' unique genetic abilities might not only answer fundamental evolutionary questions, but also aid in the development of new antibacterial and antifungal drugs. </p>



<p>Today's pressing concern of antibiotic resistance could potentially find a solution in these diminutive heroes. </p>



<p>“The recipes the rotifers are using look different from known genes in microbes... it might suggest ideas for future medicines,” said Reuben Nowell, from the University of Stirling.</p>



<p>Intriguingly, the bdelloid rotifers produce non-ribosomal peptides, small amino acid-based molecules. </p>



<p>Irina Arkhipova, senior scientist at the <a href="https://www.mbl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Laboratory</a>, said the crucial next step would involve identifying these non-ribosomally synthesized peptides produced by bdelloid rotifers, and the conditions that prompt their synthesis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-safer-drugs-a-possibility">Finding safer drugs: A possibility?</h2>



<p>One of the major hurdles of drug development is the toxic side effects common in antibiotics produced by bacteria and fungi. </p>



<p>If bdelloid rotifers are indeed producing similar chemicals in their cells, they might be less toxic and safer for use in other animals, potentially paving the path to less toxic medicines for humans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peculiarities-of-the-bdelloid-rotifers">Peculiarities of the bdelloid rotifers</h2>



<p>There's a peculiar characteristic of bdelloid rotifers that deeply interests researchers - their asexual reproduction.</p>



<p>Unlike most animals, rotifers reproduce through parthenogenesis, where the offspring is an exact genetic clone of the mother, without the need for sexual reproduction.</p>



<p>“If rotifers don’t find a way to change their genes, they could go extinct. This might help explain why these rotifers have borrowed so many genes from other places, especially anything that helps them cope with infections,” said Tim Barraclough, a study co-author from the University of Oxford.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-and-bdelloid-rotifers">Biodiversity and bdelloid rotifers</h2>



<p>Bdelloid rotifers not only hold potential for medical advancements but also play a crucial role in preserving aquatic ecosystems. </p>



<p>These resilient organisms contribute to nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter, which in turn supports the growth of aquatic plants and microorganisms. Their presence helps maintain the balance of micro-ecosystems, ensuring that water bodies remain healthy and productive. </p>



<p>Understanding the ecological roles and conservation needs of bdelloid rotifers can help in developing strategies to protect diverse aquatic habitats, promoting the health of larger environmental systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rotifers-vs-antibiotic-resistance">Rotifers vs. antibiotic resistance</h2>



<p>The groundbreaking discoveries concerning bdelloid rotifers have opened up <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-create-viruses-to-combat-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">numerous avenues</a> for further research to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-increases-threat-antimicrobial-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tackle</a> antibiotic resistance. </p>



<p>Scientists are particularly interested in sequencing the rotifer genome in more detail to uncover additional hidden genes that may offer further insights into their extraordinary capabilities. </p>



<p>Moreover, investigating the mechanisms by which rotifers incorporate foreign DNA into their genomes could yield significant advancements in genetic engineering and biotechnology. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-rotifers-and-antibiotics">Future of rotifers and antibiotics</h2>



<p>With a wealth of genes borrowed from bacteria, plants, and other forms of life, the bdelloid rotifers present an exciting avenue for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-projected-to-kill-10-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientific exploration</a>. </p>



<p>The findings from this research shed light on the fascinating nature of gene movement between different forms of life, offering valuable insights for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistant-superbugs-are-being-passed-from-pets-to-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological research</a> and medical advancements.</p>



<p>The tale of these tiny survivors, armed with borrowed genes and antibiotic recipes, is a reminder that sometimes nature's smallest creatures might just hold an answer to some of our biggest challenges.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49919-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Tiny animals steal genes from bacteria to produce antibiotics

A microscopic marvel of our planet, the bdelloid rotifer, is...

<p>In 1987, the "This is your brain on drugs" anti-drug campaign was an influential public service announcement (PSA) launched by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America in 1987.</p>



<p>The ad featured an egg representing a healthy brain, then it was cracked and fried in a pan to symbolize a brain damaged by drugs. The narrator's closing line, "Any questions?" drove home the stark, simple message...all drugs are bad.</p>



<p>This advertisement emerged as one of the most emblematic and recognized anti-drug messages of its era.</p>



<p>Although it faced criticism for perhaps oversimplifying the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-brain-identify-rewards-and-punishments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complexities of drug addiction</a>, the campaign achieved a significant feat.</p>



<p>It created a lasting visual association for many viewers between drug use, including substances like magic mushrooms, and the potential for brain damage.</p>



<p>This initiative also captured attention and sparked meaningful discourse on the broader implications of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/americans-have-a-shocking-dependency-on-prescription-drugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drug consumption</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-that-was-then-this-is-now">That was then, this is now</h2>



<p>What comes to mind when you hear "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magic mushrooms</a>"? Many people think of tripping hippies, vivid colors, and altered perceptions.</p>



<p>But there's more to these mushrooms than psychedelic adventures. The medical community is now looking at their potential effects on the brain and their ability to treat mental health issues.</p>



<p>Remember the "This is your brain on drugs" campaign? It painted a harsh picture of drug use. Times have changed. Modern research shows a different view, especially about psilocybin's benefits.</p>



<p>Psilocybin, found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mushroom-magic-new-species-discovered-in-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magic mushroom species</a>, shows great promise in clinical settings for treating brain disorders. Studies suggest it can heal depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.</p>



<p>These sessions involve careful supervision and focus on healing and mental health improvement. They can lead to deep personal insights and emotional breakthroughs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-key-players">The key players</h2>



<p>A recent and incredibly thorough study from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis (<a href="https://wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WUSTL</a>) illuminates this intriguing topic.</p>



<p><a href="https://physicians.wustl.edu/people/nico-u-dosenbach-md-phd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Nico U. F. Dosenbach</a>, a professor of neurology, and <a href="https://profiles.wustl.edu/en/persons/joshua-siegel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Joshua S. Siegel</a>, an instructor in psychiatry, led this important research. Alongside them was <a href="https://physicians.wustl.edu/people/ginger-e-nicol-md/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Ginger E. Nicol</a>, an associate professor of psychiatry.</p>



<p>Their combined expertise provided a unique insight into the effects of psilocybin, the active compound in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magic-mushrooms-are-the-most-popular-psychedelic-drug/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magic mushrooms</a>, on the human brain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knock-it-down-and-rebuild">Knock it down and rebuild</h2>



<p>Psilocybin, known for its psychedelic effects, temporarily disrupts a critical network of brain areas involved in introspective thinking, such as daydreaming and remembering. This network is known as the default mode network (DMN).</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-deeply-enhances-meditation-insights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Under the influence</a> of psilocybin, the DMN becomes desynchronized, leading to the characteristic mind-bending experiences reported by users.</p>



<p>Interestingly, while the DMN re-establishes itself after the drug wears off, subtle changes persist for weeks.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/brain_stable-activity_before-magic-mushrooms-psilocybin_WUSTL_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/brain_stable-activity_before-magic-mushrooms-psilocybin_WUSTL_1s.jpg" alt="Normal human brain heat map patterns before taking psilocybin. Credit: WUSTL" class="wp-image-1939476"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Normal human brain heat map patterns before taking psilocybin. Credit: WUSTL</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>"There’s a massive effect initially, and when it’s gone, a pinpoint effect remains. That’s exactly what you’d want to see for a potential medicine," Dr. Dosenbach explains.</p>



<p>"You wouldn’t want people’s brain networks to be obliterated for days, but you also wouldn’t want everything to snap back to the way it was immediately. You want an effect that lasts long enough to make a difference."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-study-psilocybin-in-human-brains">How to study psilocybin in human brains</h2>



<p>To explore these effects, the researchers recruited seven healthy adults to take a high dose of psilocybin or methylphenidate (the generic form of Ritalin) under controlled conditions.</p>



<p>The study was designed with safety in mind, as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-why-psilocybin-mushrooms-make-you-hallucinate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychedelic trips</a> can sometimes be intense and overwhelming. Each participant was accompanied by trained experts throughout the experience.</p>



<p>Participants underwent an average of 18 functional MRI brain scans over several weeks, including before, during, and after their psilocybin experiences.</p>



<p>Four participants even returned six months later to repeat the experiment. This rigorous approach allowed the researchers to gather detailed data on how psilocybin affects functional brain networks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-induces-profound-brain-changes">Psilocybin induces profound brain changes</h2>



<p>The study's findings revealed that psilocybin causes profound and widespread changes to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-microdosing-may-improve-mental-health-by-boosting-stress-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain's functional networks</a>. These changes were not permanent but lasted long enough to potentially benefit mental health.</p>



<p>The DMN, which is usually synchronized when the brain is not focused on a specific task, became desynchronized under the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drug-induces-feelings-of-oceanic-boundlessness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence of psilocybin</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/brain_stable-activity_after-magic-mushrooms-psilocybin_WUSTL_1s.jpg" alt="Human brain heat map patterns while under the influence of psilocybin. Credit: WUSTL" class="wp-image-1939475"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Human brain heat map patterns while under the influence of psilocybin. Credit: WUSTL</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>After the drug's acute effects wore off, the DMN re-established itself, but small differences from pre-psilocybin scans persisted.</p>



<p>“The idea is that you’re taking this system that’s fundamental to the brain’s ability to think about the self in relation to the world, and you’re totally desynchronizing it temporarily,” Siegel explained.</p>



<p>“In the short term, this creates a psychedelic experience. The longer-term consequence is that it makes the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-may-boost-our-ability-to-learn-and-explore/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain more flexible</a> and potentially more able to come into a healthier state.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precise-data-on-therapeutic-potential">Precise data on therapeutic potential</h2>



<p>These findings have big implications for developing psilocybin-based therapies for mental illnesses like depression and PTSD.</p>



<p>Back in the 1950s and '60s, psilocybin showed potential as a treatment for depression, but strict federal drug policies stopped most research for years.</p>



<p>Recently, though, regulations have eased up, sparking new interest in psilocybin's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelics-could-help-us-reinvent-ourselves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapeutic potential</a>.</p>



<p>“We were able to get very precise data on the effects of the drug in each individual,” Nicol said. He explained that this approach is a step toward precision clinical trials.</p>



<p>In psychiatry, it's often unclear who should receive a particular medicine and the appropriate dosage. As a result, doctors end up trying multiple medicines and adjusting dosages until something works.</p>



<p>Using this method in clinical trials allows researchers to identify factors that determine who benefits from a medication and who doesn’t. This can help make better use of the medicines available.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bending-minds-to-improve-mental-health">Bending minds to improve mental health</h2>



<p>This study from WUSTL offers an insightful roadmap for scientists aiming to evaluate the impacts of psychoactive drugs on brain function. This could significantly accelerate the development of treatments for various psychiatric conditions.</p>



<p>One fascinating aspect is psilocybin’s ability to temporarily erase an individual’s brain network “fingerprint,” fostering a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-offers-new-explanation-for-how-psychedelic-drugs-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more adaptable brain state</a>. This discovery opens promising new avenues for addressing mental health disorders.</p>



<p>However, it’s important to recognize that psilocybin is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating depression or any other condition.</p>



<p>Self-medicating with psilocybin can be perilous and should only be done under the guidance of trained mental health professionals.</p>



<p>This emerging field of research is both intriguing and complex, urging us to consider its broader implications for mental health treatment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dissolving-and-rebuilding-brain-networks">Dissolving and rebuilding brain networks</h2>



<p>In summary, the study by Drs. Dosenbach, Siegel, and Nicol at Washington University School of Medicine offers critical insights into how psilocybin affects the brain. </p>



<p>By desynchronizing the DMN and creating lasting, non-permanent changes, psilocybin shows promise as a potential treatment for mental health conditions.</p>



<p>But what exactly does this mean for patients struggling with depression or PTSD? While the findings are promising, further research and clinical trials are essential to fully understand psilocybin's therapeutic potential and ensure its safe use.</p>



<p>As interest in psychedelics grows, studies like this pave the way for innovative treatments that could revolutionize mental health care. </p>



<p>Understanding the brain's response to psilocybin allows scientists and doctors to better harness its potential, potentially offering new hope for those facing mental illnesses.</p>



<p>So, how might this research impact future therapies? By diving deeper into the brain's intricate workings, we may unlock new pathways to healing.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07624-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em>.</p>

This is your brain, this is your brain on 'magic mushrooms'

In 1987, the "This is your brain on drugs" anti-drug...

<p>This weekend, the cosmos has a mesmerizing display in store, a natural spectacle perfectly timed with the 55th anniversary of Apollo 11's monumental achievement. As we celebrate the first time humans touched the moon's surface in 1969, the full Buck Moon will illuminate our night skies, joined by a spectacular light show, courtesy of the Perseids meteor shower.</p>



<p>The full Buck Moon will reach its zenith on July 21, but it starts showcasing its full glory on July 20 - the exact day <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/edwin-buzz-aldrin-during-the-apollo-11-walking-on-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin</a> made history.</p>



<p>The moon will even throw a weekend-long full moon party, appearing full from Friday evening right through to Monday morning.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-buck-moon-looks-so-big">Why the Buck Moon looks so big</h2>



<p>July's full moon, known as the Buck Moon, is distinguished by its impressive size and brightness, often casting a warm red or orange glow. Why does this phenomenon occur? It is primarily due to location and atmospheric interference.</p>



<p>When the moon is positioned low over the horizon, its light traverses a longer path through the atmosphere. This extended journey scatters the shorter, blue wavelengths and allows the longer, red wavelengths to dominate.</p>



<p>This fascinating process is similar to what we observe during sunrises and sunsets. Such atmospheric magic not only enhances our appreciation of natural beauty but also offers insights into the intricate interactions between celestial bodies and our atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buck-moon-and-perseids-what-s-in-a-name">Buck Moon and Perseids: What's in a name?</h2>



<p>Male deer, commonly referred to as 'bucks', typically develop new antlers in July, lending the full moon its colloquial name. </p>



<p>However, this month's full moon may also be known as the 'Thunder Moon' due to the frequent storms of July, or the 'Hay Moon', reflecting the ongoing hay harvest.</p>



<p>Interestingly, for those practicing Hinduism, Buddhism, or Jainism, the 'Guru Full Moon' or 'Guru Purnima' holds significant spiritual importance. </p>



<p>This event symbolizes the purification of the mind and honors respective spiritual masters.</p>



<p>What broader implications do these names and traditions hold for our understanding of cultural and natural cycles? </p>



<p>By exploring the interconnectedness of nature and human practices, we gain valuable insights into both ecological phenomena and cultural heritage. </p>



<p>This balanced perspective enhances our appreciation of the natural world and its myriad influences on our lives.</p>



<p>Once we bid the Buck Moon adieu, get ready for a string of supermoons, with four lined up back to back. These astronomical giants grace us when a full moon's timing coincides with its closest approach to Earth (the perigee). August 19th's '<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-sturgeon-moon-is-coming-next-week-followed-by-a-rare-blue-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sturgeon Moon</a>' will start off this run of oversized, overly dazzling moons.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perseids-meteor-shower-joins-the-sky-party">Perseids meteor shower joins the sky party</h2>



<p>Joining the full Buck Moon this weekend is the beginning of the annual Perseids <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/meteors-meteorites/perseids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meteor shower</a>. If you've been outdoors on a clear summer night recently, you might have spotted a few streaks of light whizzing across the sky. Those gleaming trails were probably Perseids.</p>



<p>The Perseids meteor shower is a celestial event that starts in mid to late July and spans until late August, painting our night skies with streaks of light in its duration.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magic-of-fireballs">Magic of fireballs</h2>



<p>As summer nights unfold, the sky comes alive with the debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet piercing through Earth's atmosphere, igniting the renowned Perseids meteor shower.</p>



<p>This celestial spectacle, however, doesn't offer a constant stream of light. On some nights, you might only spot a few meteors per hour, but at its peak, the Perseids dazzle with frequent "shooting star" displays.</p>



<p>Beyond just meteors, the Perseids are celebrated for their fireballs -- magnificent, more brilliant explosions of light and color that linger longer than typical meteor streaks.</p>



<p>These fireballs are the result of larger particles of cometary material combusting as they enter our atmosphere, providing a breathtaking glimpse into the cosmos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-watch">How to watch</h2>



<p>This year, the waxing moon might mask some of the Perseids initially, but as it sets, and the meteor shower peaks, the true spectacle begins.</p>



<p>If you can find a spot away from city lights, with clear skies, you might be in for a celestial treat.</p>



<p>Predawn hours offer the best viewing window, but spotting some meteors as early as 10 p.m. isn't uncommon.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remnants-of-comet-swift-tuttle">Remnants of comet Swift-Tuttle</h2>



<p>What's fascinating is that these meteors and fireballs are actually remnants of comets and broken asteroids. Whenever a comet like Swift-Tuttle passes by the Sun, it leaves behind a dusty trail.</p>



<p>Earth, on its annual trip around the Sun, smashes into these trails, causing the debris to catch fire and disintegrate into what we see as meteors.</p>



<p>The comet responsible for our Perseids shower was discovered by Lewis Swift and Horace Tuttle in 1862, hence the name Swift-Tuttle.</p>



<p>An astonishing fact about the comet is it's almost twice the size of the object thought to have wiped out dinosaurs.</p>



<p>The constellation from which these meteors appear to be coming from, Perseus, is the namesake of our summer spectacle, the Perseids.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buck-moon-perseids-and-skywatching">Buck Moon, Perseids, and skywatching</h2>



<p>In summary, the celestial events surrounding the full Buck Moon and the Perseids meteor shower this month offer a dazzling display in our night skies, blending history, culture, and natural beauty.</p>



<p>From the moon's impressive size and rich hues to the spectacular fireballs from comet Swift-Tuttle, these phenomena remind us of the wonders of our universe and the timeless fascination it holds for stargazers of all ages.</p>



<p>So, grab a blanket, find a quiet spot away from city lights, and let the sky put on its extraordinary show.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Full "Buck Moon" joins the Perseid meteor shower for a stellar show tonight

This weekend, the cosmos has a mesmerizing display in store,...

<p>For centuries, the legendary eruption of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/mount-vesuvius-peaks-out-through-the-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mount Vesuvius</a> that decimated the ancient city of Pompeii has been a celebrated subject of historical accounts and study. </p>



<p>The catastrophic event has fascinated historians, archaeologists, and scientists alike, serving as a stark reminder of nature's destructive power.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-complicated-narrative-in-pompeii">A complicated narrative in Pompeii </h2>



<p>A new perspective has emerged, unraveling a more complicated narrative of the natural disaster that brought the city to its knees almost 2,000 years ago.</p>



<p>Recent research has shed light on previously overlooked aspects of the calamity, suggesting that the devastation was not solely due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/catastrophic-volcanic-eruption-is-more-likely-than-we-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic eruption</a> but was also significantly influenced by concurrent seismic activities. </p>



<p>This nuanced understanding offers a richer, more intricate picture of the events that led to the tragic downfall of Pompeii, challenging long-held assumptions and opening new avenues for exploration and interpretation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vesuvius-a-catastrophic-eruption">Vesuvius: A catastrophic eruption</h2>



<p>The historical account of Pliny the Younger is the primary source of our knowledge about what transpired during the Vesuvius eruption. </p>



<p>The new insights offer a shift in perspective, suggesting an additional natural disaster might have amplified the tragic impact of the event.</p>



<p>An innovative study conducted by two renowned institutions uncovers the role of seismicity during the eruption, adding an essential piece to the grand puzzle of what occurred in 79 CE.</p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.ingv.it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia</a> (INGV) and Pompeii Archaeological Park took on the challenging task of uncovering the effects of concurrent volcanic and seismic activities that marked Vesuvius's fatal eruption.</p>



<p>Dr. Domenico Sparice is a volcanologist at INGV-Osservatorio Vesuviano and first author of the study. The findings are pivotal in understanding the events of that fateful day.</p>



<p>"These complexities are like a jigsaw puzzle in which all the pieces must fit together to unravel the complete picture," said Dr. Sparice.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-to-the-catastrophe">Clues to the catastrophe</h2>



<p>The revelation came about while the experts were excavating the Casa dei Pittori al Lavoro. They discovered peculiar characteristics of the collapsed buildings that ran contrary to the known effects of volcanic activity in Pompeii.</p>



<p>A different explanation had to be sought. The discovery of two skeletons with grave fracture and trauma injuries piqued their interest.</p>



<p>Dr. Fabrizio Galadini, a geologist and senior researcher at INGV noted: "Correctly recognizing the cause-effect relationship is essential to reconstruct the interplay between volcanic and seismic phenomena, and their effects on buildings and humans."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-and-death-in-pompeii">Life and death in Pompeii</h2>



<p>The ancient Pompeiians were living life as usual when the eruption occurred. Pumice lapilli - small rocks and ash particles - fell on the city for about 18 hours, prompting the inhabitants to seek shelter.</p>



<p>But then, devastating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquake-swarms-the-latest-hazard-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a> started and the people who didn't escape their shelters were potentially overwhelmed by the collapsing buildings.</p>



<p>"The people who did not flee their shelters were possibly overwhelmed by earthquake-induced collapses of already overburdened buildings. This was the fate of the two individuals we recovered", said Dr. Valeria Amoretti, an anthropologist who heads the Applied Research Laboratory of Pompeii Archaeological Park.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-battle-for-survival">A battle for survival</h2>



<p>Although the researchers found several indications that the individuals didn't die from inhaling ash or extreme heat, it remains unclear how many people in the city succumbed to volcanic-related causes or due to earthquakes.</p>



<p>Dr. Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park noted: "New insight into the destruction of Pompeii gets us very close to the experience of the people who lived here 2,000 years ago. The choices they made as well as the dynamics of the events, which remain a focus of our research, decided over life and death in the last hours of the city’s existence."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pompeii-s-tragic-ending">Pompeii's tragic ending</h2>



<p>The new insights into the Vesuvius eruption offer a more detailed and complex narrative of Pompeii's tragic end. </p>



<p>The combined effects of volcanic and seismic activities paint a picture of a community caught in a relentless struggle for survival. </p>



<p>These findings not only deepen our understanding of one of history's most famous volcanic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a> but also serve as a reminder of the intricate and often interconnected nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-disasters-are-on-the-rise-but-hazard-plans-are-inadequate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural disasters</a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Tragic end of Pompeii was not solely caused by Mount Vesuvius

For centuries, the legendary eruption of Mount Vesuvius that decimated...

<p>It’s commonly accepted wisdom that genetic diversity is vital for the survival of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fire-ants-can-teach-us-how-to-create-stronger-materials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>, and sexual reproduction helps maintain this diversity. But what happens when a species doesn't reproduce sexually? Usually, it's a recipe for low genetic diversity and a ticket to extinction. Yet, in the realm of clonal raider ants, this doesn't seem to be the case. Why so?</p>



<p>A recent study has shed light on this intriguing mystery, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-shifting-to-new-habitats-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">story of survival</a> in the face of biological norms, courtesy of researchers from <a href="https://www.rockefeller.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rockefeller University</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-diversity-of-clonal-raider-ants">Genetic diversity of clonal raider ants</h2>



<p>To give you some context, the clonal raider ant is a blind, queenless creature found in tropical settings around the globe. </p>



<p>The species is originally native to Bangladesh and reproduces through parthenogenesis. This type of asexual reproduction results in offspring that inherit two sets of genetically identical chromosomes from the mother – in other words, clone daughters.</p>



<p>Now, you'd be forgiven for thinking that this should lead to a drastic loss in genetic diversity and, over time, species collapse. But these resilient little creatures are confounding expectations and surviving – and flourishing – quite well.</p>



<p>Kip Lacy, a graduate fellow in the Laboratory of Social Evolution and Behavior, and his mentor Daniel Kronauer are the faces behind this discovery. They found out that the clonal raider ant doesn't leave gene transmission to chance. </p>



<p>Instead, it ensures that offspring inherit two different versions of its complete genome, thus preserving the genetic diversity existing in the ancient founder of each clonal line.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diving-deeper-into-the-mystery">Diving deeper into the mystery</h2>



<p>Under normal circumstances, chromosomes mix randomly during meiosis, a kind of cell division resulting in sperm and egg cells. This, however, doesn't seem to be the case with our ant friends.</p>



<p>Lacy and Kronauer highlight that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-ants-have-a-big-impact-on-the-hunting-behavior-of-lions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asexual creatures</a> face two significant challenges at the cellular level. Firstly, they need to produce diploid genomes (containing two sets of chromosomes) to pass onto their offspring. </p>



<p>Secondly, this offspring must have a genetic makeup compatible with development and reproduction, something that many asexual species, burdened with two identical chromosomal sets, lack.</p>



<p>"We think we've discovered how clonal raider ants are avoiding the loss of genetic diversity that otherwise routinely results from parthenogenesis," said Lacy. "Maybe this diversity enables the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-now-using-cars-to-travel-spread-to-new-locations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival of the species</a>."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-ant-maintains-genetic-diversity">How the ant maintains genetic diversity</h2>



<p>Here's where the clonal raider ant, a parthenogenetic creature, breaks away from the mold. Contrary to what you'd expect, it manages to retain significant diversity during each reproductive cycle. How does it pull off such a feat? It's all down to the process of genetic recombination.</p>



<p>In the clonal raider ant, recombination events lead to new gene copy combinations. Yet, rather than being shuffled randomly, the recombined chromosomes always inherited together. </p>



<p>"This co-inheritance could explain how this species continues to survive. In clonal raider ants, it's 800% more likely to occur than would be expected from a random roll of the genetic dice," noted Lacy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-novel-strategy-for-genetic-diversity-retention">Novel strategy for genetic diversity retention</h2>



<p>This, as Kronauer pointed out, is a unique strategy for retaining genetic diversity. It basically shows that there are more ways of dodging random genetic inheritance than we previously thought. </p>



<p>Notably, this system of unselfish inheritance, where no gene has an advantage and all gene copies are co-inherited, is a new and unexplored concept in the biological sciences. </p>



<p>Whether this method applies to other organisms, including sexually reproducing species, remains to be determined.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-unusual-reproductive-biology">Studying unusual reproductive biology</h2>



<p>This research serves as a powerful reminder of why we must explore species with unique reproductive biology. </p>



<p>"If we hadn't studied these asexual ants, we might never have learned about this mode of reproduction," noted Lacy.</p>



<p>And who knows? Their further exploration of these fascinating creatures might well rewrite our understanding of genetics and survival in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-ants-use-earths-magnetic-field-for-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural world</a>.</p>



<p>So, next time you see an ant, take a moment to appreciate the astonishing genetic diversity and survival strategies that these tiny creatures carry within. Their tiny bodies bear testament to the wonders of nature and its never-ending capacity to surprise us.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02455-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</em>.</a></p>



<p>-----</p>



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How do asexual ants maintain genetic diversity?

It’s commonly accepted wisdom that genetic diversity is vital for...

<p>In the remote and harsh environment of Antarctic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-warming-toward-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a>, communities of microorganisms flourish, offering vital clues about early life on Earth. </p>



<p>A recent study by Dr. Anne Jungblut from the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a> and her team, published in the journal <a href="https://phys.org/journals/environmental-microbiology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Environmental Microbiology</em></a>, focuses on Lake Untersee, the largest freshwater lake in East Antarctica. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-structures-with-distinct-communities-nbsp">Microbial structures with distinct communities&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Lake Untersee, perpetually covered in ice, hosts an intriguing ecosystem where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-soil-planet-warming-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial communities</a> form unique structures at its depths. These formations range from narrow pinnacles to larger cone-shaped structures, raising questions about their differing shapes.</p>



<p>“Lake Untersee, a lake in Antarctica that is perennially covered with ice, is home to unique microbial structures that are not lithified,” noted the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We have evaluated the structure of the community and its metabolic potential across the pigmented upper layers and the sediment-enriched deeper layers in these pinnacle and cone-shaped microbial structures using metagenomics. These microbial structures are inhabited by distinct communities.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-has-shaped-the-microbial-structures">What has shaped the microbial structures?</h2>



<p>According to Jungblut, having these two distinct microbial structural formations in Lake Untersee allowed the researchers to study how they formed.</p>



<p>The experts aimed to determine whether environmental forces or the species composition of microbes primarily shaped these structures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers hypothesized that if the microbes were similar, environmental factors played a significant role. Conversely, if the species differed, it suggested that microbial growth patterns influenced the structures' shapes.</p>



<p>Lake Untersee remains covered by ice, with only a small amount of light penetrating to the lake's depths to support photosynthetic life.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sampling-the-microbial-structures-nbsp">Sampling the microbial structures&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The top layer of these microbial structures is colorful due to the presence of photosynthetic organisms that capture the limited light. Below this layer, the structures appear as empty clay but are teeming with non-photosynthetic organisms.</p>



<p>The researchers analyzed small samples from the microbial structures, extracting DNA to identify the various species. They found a mix of single-celled organisms like Archaea and more complex protists, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microscopic-fungi-help-forests-fight-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microfungi</a>, ciliates, and amoebas. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-cyanobacteria-nbsp">The role of cyanobacteria&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The outer layers predominantly consisted of cyanobacteria, a type of photosynthetic bacteria common in freshwater ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The cone-shaped structures were rich in the thicker cyanobacteria <em>Microcoleus</em>, while the pinnacle-shaped ones had a higher concentration of the thinner <em>Elainellacea</em>.</p>



<p>“Based on our research, we believe that cyanobacteria play a role in how these structures form,” Jungblut said. “So there must be some way they grow that leads to these different shapes.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the study leaves unanswered questions about why different cyanobacteria species dominate certain areas of the lake and how these microorganisms interact. Future research aims to explore these interactions further.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-early-earth-conditions-nbsp">Insights into early Earth conditions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The microbial structures in Lake Untersee offer insights into early Earth conditions, as they form in a manner similar to ancient stromatolites.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Stromatolites, among the oldest known fossils, first appeared billions of years ago during the Archean era. This period, stretching from 4 to 2.5 billion years ago, saw Earth populated only by single-celled organisms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Many Archean stromatolites were composed of photosynthesizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyanobacteria-may-shed-new-light-on-the-history-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyanobacteria</a>, which played a crucial role in creating the oxygen-rich atmosphere we rely on today.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-structures-and-environmental-forces">Microbial structures and environmental forces</h2>



<p>By studying the living microbial laminated structures in Antarctica, scientists hope to learn more about early life's evolution, formation, and organization, as well as the influence of environmental forces.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Most habitats on Earth today have a lot of organisms that didn't exist on early Earth,” Jungblut said. “So we study these structures in Antarctica because it is an extreme environment where not much can live and so better reflects what it would have been like during the Archean.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexities-of-early-life">Complexities of early life</h2>



<p>Lake Untersee's unique microbial structures provide a valuable opportunity to understand the complexities of early life.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings from this study contribute to a broader understanding of how life evolved under extreme conditions and how these ancient processes can inform our knowledge of life's resilience and adaptability.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As scientists continue to explore these remote and challenging environments, they uncover vital information that bridges the past and present, offering glimpses into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/origin-of-life-on-earth-may-have-been-found-in-ancient-hot-springs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">origins of life</a> on our planet.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Microbial structures in frozen lakes shed light on how life evolved

In the remote and harsh environment of Antarctic lakes, communities...

<p>You know those little tags on your clothes? Sure, they can be annoying, especially when they itch against your skin. But they hold a world of information - more than you can imagine! They tell us a lot about the clothes we wear and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-fast-fashion-jeans-bad-for-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact on our environment</a>. Recent study discusses how fashion industry significantly contributes to environmental plastic waste.</p>



<p>The driving force behind this revelation is Professor Richard Venditti from <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a>, an expert in paper science and engineering. </p>



<p>Backed by a capable team of researchers, Professor Venditti has unveiled some eye-opening statistics about the chilling contribution of the fashion industry to environmental pollution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-waste-from-fashion-industry">Plastic waste from fashion industry</h2>



<p>The fashion industry hasn't exactly been basking in the sunshine of positive news. Stories of subpar working conditions, underwhelming wages, and the rapid-fire "fast fashion" culture have rocked its boat time and again.</p>



<p>But Professor Venditti's recent study draws our attention to an even more alarming issue - plastic leakage.</p>



<p>"We analyzed data on imports, exports and apparel production in countries all over the world," said Venditti. "Then we compared that to existing global information on different stages of the apparel value chain to estimate how much plastic leaks into the environment at each of those points."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-the-environment">Impact on the environment </h2>



<p>"Much of the plastic waste that leaks into the environment comes from clothes that are thrown away, especially synthetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-polyester-clothes-stink-more-than-cotton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apparel</a>," Venditti said. </p>



<p>"There is also waste from manufacturing, packaging and even from tire abrasion during transport, as well as microplastics which get pulled into the water when we wash our clothes."</p>



<p>In 2019, the fashion industry cranked out an unbelievable 20 million tons of plastic waste. Fashion's dirty secret lies in synthetic clothing materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, not to mention the plastics used in packaging. About 40% of this number ends up sullying our environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-s-the-villain">Who's the villain?</h2>



<p>Synthetic apparel, it turns out, is fashion's biggest polluter, churning out 18 million tons of waste in 2019 alone. In the same year, 89% of all plastic waste from the global fashion industry came from these synthetic dark horses. Close to 8.3 million tons ended up in the environment.</p>



<p>Cotton might seem like the safer bet, right? Wrong. Even our beloved cotton contributes to the plastic waste debacle. </p>



<p>Cotton clothing was responsible for 1.9 million tons of plastic waste. Throw in some other fibers and you have a grand total of 0.31 million tons. And the packaging? Don't get me started!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-waste-migration-in-fashion">Plastic waste migration in fashion </h2>



<p>The plastic waste doesn't necessarily rest where the clothes are sold. Countries like the US and Japan, known for their "fast fashion" craze, often offload their discarded clothes to lower-income countries. These nations, lacking proper waste management systems, bear the brunt of this environmental calamity.</p>



<p>This means our shopping habits in well-off countries impact the environment in less fortunate nations.</p>



<p>"What we're seeing is that in countries like the United States, we have a 'fast fashion' culture where we buy a lot of clothes and don't keep them for very long," Venditti said.</p>



<p>"When we discard those clothes, they either go into landfills or, more often, they end up in thrift stores. Some of the clothes that go to these stores are sold in the U.S., but often they end up going to other countries that do not have waste management systems robust enough to handle that kind of volume. That is where you end up with a large amount of plastic leaking into the environment."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-we-sew-up-this-issue">Can we sew up this issue?</h2>



<p>The study urges a major overhaul in the fashion industry. A shift towards a circular industry model, one that recycles materials instead of ditching them as waste, is the need of the hour. We also need to promote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mushroom-leather-mycelium-latest-eco-friendly-fashion-trend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable</a>, non-synthetic textiles.</p>



<p>So, next time you're shopping, take a gander at those tags. They speak volumes about your clothes' environmental footprint. Will your next purchase add to the plastic waste mountain or will it steer us towards a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eco-friendly-vegan-leather-could-transform-the-fashion-industry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable future</a>?</p>



<p>Remember, our fashion choices don't just define our style, they shape the kind of world we live in. Our decisions matter, more than we realize. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49441-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Fashion industry's plastic waste is a major environmental threat

You know those little tags on your clothes? Sure, they...

<p>A chicken named Cluck, a turkey called Tom, or a pig introduced as Penny – the simple act of giving a name and pointing out individual qualities may significantly change young children's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/family-dogs-boost-physical-activity-levels-among-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attitudes towards animals</a>. </p>



<p>This intriguing concept was demonstrated by researchers from <a href="https://english.swps.pl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPS University</a> who suggest that assigning distinct identities to animals actually makes children perceive them as more similar to humans. </p>



<p>Rather than seeing them as a source of their next meal, children might instead prefer to foster friendships with these named creatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-naming-animals">Science behind naming animals</h2>



<p>To lend substance to these findings, we turn to Dr. Aleksandra Rabinovitch, an expert in the Faculty of Psychology at SWPS University. </p>



<p>Dr. Rabinovitch sheds light on our relationship with animals, particularly edible ones, and its deep-rooted connection with our dietary choices.</p>



<p>Dive into the world of children's shows and stories, and you'll find animals with unique names, distinct characteristics, and individual preferences playing prominent roles. </p>



<p>An example that springs to mind is the widely cherished animated series, "Peppa Pig." But, does this approach to characterizing animals encourage children to see them as relatable beings and discourage them from associating them with meat?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cognitive-dissonance-dilemma">The cognitive dissonance dilemma</h2>



<p>The dilemma lies in the recognition that consuming meat causes harm to animals, something humans, generally compassionate towards animals, wrestle with. </p>



<p>Dr. Rabinovitch explains that to soothe this cognitive dissonance, people often resort to certain defense strategies without altering their existing dietary practices.</p>



<p>The strategies may include denying that edible animals possess human-like mental attributes, such as the capacity to experience suffering. The result? The more meat products people <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consume</a>, the less empathy they tend to show towards these animals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-meat-a-lesson-for-little-ones">Eating meat: A lesson for little ones</h2>



<p>Surprisingly, children, before understanding the origin of meat, form a unique relationship with animals. </p>



<p>They are drawn towards animals that appear "nice" and relate to them on an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-near-homes-reduce-emotional-problems-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional level</a>, much like they would with fellow humans. However, children certainly do not associate these friendly creatures with their dinner plate.</p>



<p>According to foreign research, while an impressive number of American children aged 4–7 years considered pigs (73.3%) and chickens (65.9%) as "not OK to eat," approximately 30% had difficulty accurately determining the origin of animal-based products.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-animals-with-names">Impact of animals with names</h2>



<p>Despite these trends, there has been no focused attempt to investigate how personalizing animals by ascribing human characteristics to them could influence a decrease in the acceptance of meat consumption.</p>



<p>Thankfully, that's where the team of researchers from the Social Behavior Research Center at SWPS University stepped in, dissecting this issue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-s-perception-of-named-animals">Children's perception of named animals</h2>



<p>A total of 208 preschool children aged 5–6 years were part of two studies involving interactions with pictures of pigs and chickens. The studies were carefully designed to unveil how children perceive animals before and after assigning them individual identities.</p>



<p>For instance, in one scenario, some children were shown a photo of a pig named Lelka, given personal habits and preferences. </p>



<p>The children were then asked about their willingness to foster a relationship with the pig or consume its meat. A similar procedure was conducted with chickens in a separate study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-findings">Surprising findings</h2>



<p>The findings were quite telling. A significant number of children (79% in the case of pigs and over 84% for chickens) found an animal unique when it was given a name and individual characteristics. </p>



<p>These children expressed a stronger desire to befriend such an animal and a diminished appetite for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soy-foods-boost-cognitive-abilities-and-attention-span-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dishes</a> made with its meat.</p>



<p>Dr. Rabinovitch comments on the results, stating that identifying each edible animal by name and emphasizing its uniqueness through personal characteristics can significantly alter children's attitudes towards it. These findings hold steady regardless of whether the animal is a pig or a chicken.</p>



<p>What does this all mean for parents and educators? Perhaps it's time to reconsider <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-are-less-likely-to-see-farm-animals-as-just-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how we introduce animals</a> to children, especially if we strive to foster a future where empathy for all creatures reigns supreme. </p>



<p>Ultimately, the power to shape children's perceptions and attitudes towards animals lies in our hands, or rather, our words.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195666324003088?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Appetite</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Kids who identify farm animals by name are less likely to eat them

A chicken named Cluck, a turkey called Tom, or a...

<p>Coronal mass ejections, the eruptions that cause solar storms, are at the forefront of a major breakthrough in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a> forecasting and technology, promising to eclipse previous limitations.</p>



<p>This newfound technology aims to predict the exact speed and arrival time of these powerful solar eruptions that barrel towards the Earth, posing significant risks to our technological infrastructure.</p>



<p>The ability to accurately forecast coronal mass ejections (CMEs) represents a critical advancement in protecting our satellites, power grids, and communication networks from the disruptive effects of geomagnetic storms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-threat-of-solar-eruptions">The threat of solar eruptions </h2>



<p>Solar eruptions splatter vast amounts of gas and magnetic fields into space, originating directly from our Sun's volatile atmosphere.</p>



<p>These immense bursts can lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severe-geomagnetic-storm-alert-issued-sun-begins-erupting-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geomagnetic storms</a>, which have the potential to cause widespread disruption to terrestrial technology on Earth and in its orbit.</p>



<p>Solar storms can interfere with satellite operations, power grids, and communication networks, creating significant challenges.</p>



<p>However, with recent advancements in our understanding of these solar eruptions, we are now better equipped to predict and mitigate their impacts, thereby safeguarding our crucial infrastructure and maintaining the functionality of our modern technological systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pioneers-behind-the-screen">The pioneers behind the screen</h2>



<p>Renowned researchers based at <a href="https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aberystwyth University</a> presented their findings at the Royal Astronomical Society's <a href="https://nam2024.hull.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Astronomy Meeting</a> in Hull.</p>



<p>The experts focused on the "active regions" on the sun, the hotbeds for CMEs characterized by intense magnetic fields.</p>



<p>The research involved the meticulous monitoring of these areas to observe changes before, during, and after an eruption.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-height-of-active-sun-regions">Critical height of active sun regions </h2>



<p>The "critical height" of the active regions, which refers to the height where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a> becomes unstable, captured the attention of the researchers.</p>



<p>"We can determine this critical height by measuring how the strength of the magnetic field decreases with height," explained solar physicist Harshita Gandhi.</p>



<p>She further noted that this information, when used in conjunction with a geometric model, helps track the true speed of CMEs in three dimensions.</p>



<p>The key to progress lies in this three-dimensional tracking - a breakthrough that empowers us with precise predictions.</p>



<p>"Our findings reveal a strong relationship between the critical height at CME onset and the true CME speed," said Gandhi. "This insight allows us to predict the CME's speed and, consequently, its arrival time on Earth, even before the CME has fully erupted."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-eruptions-a-double-edged-sword">Solar eruptions: A double-edged sword</h2>



<p>When Earth is in the direct path of a solar eruption, it can trigger a geomagnetic storm, producing the breathtaking phenomenon known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ongoing-solar-storms-spectacular-auroras-and-radio-blackouts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aurorae</a>, or the Northern Lights.</p>



<p>While these dazzling displays of light captivate observers with their beauty, they disguise the destructive potential lurking beneath. </p>



<p>Geomagnetic storms can lead to widespread technological malfunctions and outages. This underscores the critical need for precise and accurate prediction of CMEs, allowing us to take necessary precautions to protect our vital infrastructure from the adverse effects of these powerful solar events.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-space-weather-predictions">The future of space weather predictions</h2>



<p>Taken together, advancements in understanding the speed of a CME shortly after its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canyon-of-fire-solar-eruption-extended-more-than-60000-miles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruption from the Sun</a> allows forecasters to provide more accurate advance warnings.</p>



<p>"Understanding and using the critical height in our forecasts improves our ability to warn about incoming CMEs, helping to protect the technology that our modern lives depend on," said Gandhi.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the research carried out by these scientists not only enriches our understanding of the Sun's explosive behavior but also substantially improves our ability to anticipate space weather events.</p>



<p>With this comes better preparation and protection for the technological systems we depend on daily.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-international-collaboration">The role of international collaboration</h2>



<p>The fight against space weather threats is not one that can be tackled by a single nation alone. </p>



<p>International collaboration plays an integral role in pooling resources, expertise, and data to develop more comprehensive forecasting models. </p>



<p>Organizations like NASA, ESA, and NOAA, among others, continuously share information and collaborate on projects that aim to enhance our collective understanding of CMEs and other solar phenomena.</p>



<p>This spirit of cooperation extends to the integration of new technologies and methodologies across borders, creating a resilient network capable of providing timely alerts and safeguarding our global technological infrastructure.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Breakthrough in space weather forecasting will help us predict solar eruptions

Coronal mass ejections, the eruptions that cause solar storms, are...

<p>In today's digital age, websites play a crucial role for companies. They serve as the primary platform for customer engagement, product sales, and brand visibility. However, many people overlook the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-day-2024-the-tide-may-finally-be-turning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental impact</a> of website operations. Unfortunately, there is a significant amount of carbon emissions associated with some of the world's largest websites.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-website-emissions-of-companies">Website emissions of companies</h2>



<p>Websites consume substantial amounts of energy to function. Servers, data centers, and user interactions all contribute to their carbon footprint. </p>



<p>For companies with high traffic, these emissions can be staggering. <a href="https://www.utilitybidder.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utility Bidder</a>'s recent report focuses on this often-neglected environmental aspect, examining the emissions of major companies' websites.</p>



<p>"All companies in the modern age have climate-conscious goals, however, demand from website visitors can sometimes prove an uphill battle when trying to lower emissions; in fact, up to 4.68g of carbon dioxide can be used per page visit to some of the world’s leading major companies!" commented James Longley, Managing Director at Utility Bidder.</p>



<p>Longly noted that with millions of views per month being recorded by the likes of Apple and Amazon, the potential build-up of website emissions is alarming. The Utility Bidder team set out to analyze the global impact of website emissions.</p>



<p>“Using major companies from the top 100 of the Forbes Global 2000 list, we developed an in-depth seeding list to cover global powers from e-commerce, technology, retail, logistics, motoring, and more," said Longley. "So, which companies are proving the most damaging to the environment?"</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tech-companies-lead-the-emission-rank">Tech companies lead the emission rank</h2>



<p>While analyzing the websites that produce the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/met-office-2024-co2-levels-will-surpass-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> emissions, Utility Bidder said they found that technology companies are the biggest contributors, with half of the top 10 companies in that field. </p>



<p>"Moreover, the top three companies all operate in that sector and between them, they would need to plant well over a million trees to offset one year’s emissions."</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apple">Apple</h3>



<p>At the top of the list, Apple requires nearly 800,000 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> per year to offset its website's carbon emissions. The company's high traffic, driven by almost 1.5 billion iPhones globally, contributes significantly to its carbon footprint. </p>



<p>Despite its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030, Apple faces a daunting task in offsetting its current emissions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon">Amazon</h3>



<p>Known for its vast product range and immense user base, Amazon's website emissions require 450,627 trees to offset annually. </p>



<p>The company's name ironically evokes the Amazon rainforest, yet its digital operations have a massive environmental impact.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alphabet-google">Alphabet (Google)</h3>



<p>Google's search engine and other services generate substantial traffic, needing 411,452 trees to offset its yearly emissions. Despite having fewer emissions per page visit compared to Apple, its high user volume results in significant overall emissions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retail-and-automotive-contributions">Retail and automotive contributions</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-walmart">Walmart</h3>



<p>The retail giant's website requires 237,238 trees annually to offset its carbon emissions. Online grocery orders and other services drive heavy traffic to Walmart's site, contributing to its high emissions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tesla">Tesla</h3>



<p>The electric car manufacturer, despite its green mission, has a website that produces 4.68 grams of carbon dioxide per page visit. Annually, Tesla would need 82,678 trees to offset these emissions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-companies-with-low-website-emissions">Companies with low website emissions</h2>



<p>On the other end of the spectrum, some companies maintain remarkably low website emissions. Elevance Health, for instance, only needs 20 trees per year to offset its website's carbon footprint. </p>



<p>European companies like&nbsp;Equinor&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sanofi&nbsp;also have low emissions, reflecting the stringent environmental regulations in the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-industries-with-the-highest-emissions">Industries with the highest emissions</h2>



<p>Certain industries, particularly e-commerce and technology, exhibit higher average emissions. E-commerce companies, represented by Amazon and Alibaba, require over 230,000 trees annually to offset their emissions. </p>



<p>The technology sector follows, with companies like Apple and Google contributing to an average need of 134,060 trees per year.</p>



<p>Utility Bidder's analysis involved creating a seed list of companies from the Forbes Global 2000 list. They used SemRush to determine monthly organic traffic and the <a href="https://www.websitecarbon.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Website Carbon Calculator</a> to estimate emissions per page visit. The results provide a clear picture of the environmental impact of these digital operations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-website-emissions-of-companies">Reducing website emissions of companies</h2>



<p>“Whether you are a small or large business, there are always environmentally-friendly considerations that can be made to help mitigate the onset of carbon emissions as much as possible - from keeping your media library to compress website codes,” noted Longley.</p>



<p>Reducing website emissions involves several strategies. Businesses can optimize their websites for better energy efficiency by compressing images, minimizing code, and using green hosting services. These steps can significantly lower the carbon footprint of digital operations.</p>



<p>The digital world offers immense benefits but comes with hidden environmental costs. Clearly, some of the world's largest companies need to address the carbon emissions of their websites. </p>



<p>By raising awareness and adopting greener practices, businesses can help reduce their digital carbon footprint, contributing to a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable future</a>.</p>



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The shocking reality of website emissions

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