Shutdown risks food aid for millions as USDA halts hunger survey

The U.S. government shutdown, now in its second week, endangers food benefits for nearly 7 million women and children reliant on the WIC program. Compounding the crisis, the Department of Agriculture recently terminated the nation's key survey on food insecurity. Experts warn this move obscures rising hunger amid economic pressures.

Study links extreme heat to workplace injuries as OSHA faces delays

A new study reveals that extreme heat contributes to thousands of workplace injuries annually, with risks rising above 85 degrees Fahrenheit heat index. Researchers confirm that basic protections like water, shade, and breaks reduce these risks. However, a federal government shutdown threatens to delay OSHA's proposed national heat standard.

Rotten fish washes up on Kallax beach

Pensioner Karin Hagnelöv discovered a massive amount of rotten vendace and herring on the beach in Kallax near Luleå. How the fish ended up there remains unclear, but the find resembles scenes from a Hitchcock film with swarming birds and a strong smell. A similar discovery occurred at the same time in another part of the archipelago.

Researchers create strong biodegradable plastic from bamboo

October 08, 2025 በAI የተዘገበ

Scientists in China have developed a hard plastic from bamboo cellulose that matches the strength of conventional engineering plastics used in cars and appliances. This bioplastic is fully recyclable and biodegrades in soil within 50 days. The innovation addresses limitations in bioplastics' mechanical properties and manufacturing compatibility.

El Paso residents probe warehouse ethylene oxide emissions

A Grist investigation has revealed that emissions of the carcinogen ethylene oxide from Cardinal Health warehouses in El Paso may exceed safe limits, raising cancer risks for much of the city's population. Former worker Maria, diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer years after her time at the facility, now suspects a link. Nearby residents report headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues amid limited federal oversight.

Earth911 updates guide to eco-friendly Halloween decorations

Earth911 has refreshed its popular article on sustainable Halloween decorations, adding two new DIY ideas to reduce holiday waste. Originally published in 2017, the guide emphasizes using recycled materials for fun, environmentally kind crafts. It highlights seven easy projects suitable for families.

Earth911 updates zero-waste lifestyle guide in 2025

October 08, 2025 በAI የተዘገበ

Earth911 has substantially updated its guide on adopting a zero-waste lifestyle, highlighting practical steps to reduce trash amid growing global waste challenges. The article, originally published in 2016, stresses the shift from a linear to a circular economy to minimize environmental impact.

Plumas National Forest pursues ambitious wildfire protection plan

The U.S. Forest Service has launched the Plumas Community Protection project to safeguard 285,000 acres of Northern California's Plumas National Forest from megafires through thinning, logging, and prescribed burns. Funded by $274 million from Congress in 2023, the initiative aims to build forest resilience following the devastating 2021 Dixie Fire. However, progress has been slow amid bureaucratic challenges and limited transparency.

Geoarchaeological study reveals Karnak Temple's 3,000-year evolution

A new geoarchaeological survey has uncovered the transformation of Egypt's Karnak Temple from a flood-prone island to a major ancient religious center. Researchers analyzed sediments and pottery to trace its history over three millennia, linking its location to ancient creation myths. The findings, published in Antiquity, suggest the temple's earliest occupation dates to the Old Kingdom around 2305-1980 BCE.

Review of Erika Bjerström's book on climate and populism

In her new book 'Democracy Dies in the Heat,' SVT journalist Erika Bjerström reveals how right-wing populism uses climate denial as election bait. She also details the personal attacks directed at her online. Reviewer Sara Martinsson describes the book as an urgent alarm report.

Opinion piece urges rethinking urban design for climate resilience

Dr. Rob Moir argues in a guest opinion that climate change intensifies storms and flooding through warmer air and impervious urban surfaces. He calls for reconnecting with natural land and water cycles to build resilient cities. Solutions like permeable pavements and rain gardens could mitigate risks.

Deep-sea mining poses new threat to sharks and rays

A new study warns that proposed deep-sea mining could endanger 30 species of sharks, rays, and chimaeras whose habitats overlap with mining zones. Nearly two-thirds of these species are already threatened with extinction from human impacts. Researchers from the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa highlight risks from seafloor disruptions and sediment plumes.