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.

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.

Researchers create strong biodegradable plastic from bamboo

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.

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.

Plumas National Forest pursues ambitious wildfire protection plan

October 08, 2025 Reported by AI

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.

European institutions launch campaign for International Coccolithophore Day

Five European research institutions have announced an initiative to establish October 10 as International Coccolithophore Day, highlighting the crucial role of these microscopic plankton in regulating Earth's climate. Coccolithophores, tiny algae smaller than dust grains, capture carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, and form geological records of climate history. The campaign aims to raise awareness of their impact on ocean ecosystems amid climate change threats.

Earth911 updates zero-waste lifestyle guide in 2025

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.

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.

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.

Fossil fish rewrites otophysan evolution history

October 05, 2025 Reported by AI

A tiny fossil fish discovered in southwestern Alberta is the oldest North American otophysan, offering new insights into the evolution of freshwater fish species. Named Acronichthys maccognoi, the 4 cm specimen from the Late Cretaceous period suggests otophysans transitioned from marine to freshwater environments at least twice. The find, detailed in a study published on October 2 in Science, challenges previous understandings of their global spread.

Moose hunting begins and affects riders' trail outings

Moose hunting in southern Sweden starts today, October 8, bringing excitement for hunters but caution for riders who must carefully plan their outings. Riders in Östergötland stress the importance of dialogue with local hunting groups. The hunt continues until January 31.