Researchers create strong biodegradable plastic from bamboo

8 октября 2025 Сообщено ИИ

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.

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.

EPA plans to end greenhouse gas emissions reporting program

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed eliminating its Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, which requires large emitters to report emissions data. This move, part of broader rollbacks under the Trump administration, raises concerns about tracking national emissions and forming climate policy. Climate experts and NGOs warn that while alternatives exist, they cannot fully replace the federal system's role.

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.

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.

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.

Culligan CEO outlines sustainable water future in podcast

In a recent podcast, Culligan International CEO Scott Clawson highlighted the company's efforts to provide clean water alternatives amid global contamination issues. He discussed initiatives to reduce plastic waste and achieve net positive water impact. Clawson emphasized consumer choices in driving sustainability.

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

7 октября 2025 Сообщено ИИ

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.

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.

Fossil fish rewrites otophysan evolution history

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.

Marine heat waves clog ocean's carbon sequestration mechanism

Two major marine heat waves in the northeastern Pacific have disrupted the ocean's natural process of sinking carbon to the seafloor via zooplankton fecal pellets. A new study reveals shifts in phytoplankton and zooplankton communities that reduced carbon export during these events. This malfunction could impair the ocean's ability to absorb a quarter of human CO2 emissions.

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.