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The article explains how climate change is seriously damaging coral reefs around the world. Rising ocean temperatures are causing coral bleaching, which happens when corals lose the algae that provide them with nutrients and color. The article also discusses how pollution, overfishing, and ocean acidification make the problem even worse. Scientists are trying different solutions, such as creating artificial reefs and protecting marine environments, but many experts believe reducing carbon emissions is the most important step. Coral reefs are important because they support marine biodiversity, protect coastlines, and help provide food and jobs for millions of people.

I thought the article was very interesting and informative because it showed how connected humans are to the environment. One thing that stood out to me was how coral bleaching can happen from only small increases in ocean temperature, which shows how sensitive ecosystems can be. I also liked how the article included possible solutions instead of only focusing on the negative effects of climate change. Reading the article made me realize that protecting coral reefs is important not just for sea life, but also for people who depend on oceans for food, tourism, and protection from storms. Overall, I think the article did a good job explaining why climate change is a global issue that affects both nature and human societies.

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Article #8: Biodiversity - our strongest natural defense against climate change

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Article #8: Biodiversity - our strongest natural defense against climate change

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This article talks about the deep connection between biodiversity and climate change. Healthy ecosystems can help regulate Earth's climate. Some examples of health ecosystems that make an impact may be forests, wetlands, oceans, and grasslands. These ecosystems absorb carbon dioxide. With climate change damaging those ecosystems through rising temperatures, flooding, and habitat destruction, the article argues that the protection of biodiversity, it is one of the strongest natural defenses against climate change. This may be because diverse ecosystems can become more resilient and are more likely to recover from environmental disturbances. In restoring ecosystems, the article puts great emphasis on the fact that reducing human impacts is key to creating a sustainable future.

I really like this article because it made it easy to understand how there's an even greater connection between biodiversity and climate change. It shows how our environmental problems are not just separate issues but are instead interconnected. While many people put their focus on only reducing carbon emissions, protecting biodiversity can be just as important for maintaining a stable ecosystem for human survival in the future. I found it very interesting how nature can help reduce climate change. I have never thought about nature being a factor in slowing down or even stopping climate change. Overall, it made me expand my thoughts and gave me a greater understanding of how there are more solutions than we realize; we just have to pay close attention.

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Article #8: Report Identifies the World’s Largest Methane Leaks Contributing to Global Warming

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Article #8: Report Identifies the World’s Largest Methane Leaks Contributing to Global Warming

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Scientists have revealed the worst methane leaks in 2025. This data was collected by analyzing satellite data. Oil and gas facilities emit harmful plumes that can negatively affect the climate. This stems from poor maintenance, which can be easily fixed. The list compiled by these scientists revealed that these major leaks have the same impact as “a coal-fired power station.” The top 25 list is compiled of the worst major methane leaks produced by the University of California, Los Angeles. Fifteen of the twenty-five were from Turkmenistan. Emissions of methane can cause around 25% of global warming, and there has been a major surge of it since 2007. The list was compiled from 4,400 major plumes in 2025. Turkmenistan officials stated last October that they had collaborated with the UN to fix major methane leaks. However, it has been reported that substantial leaks remain. The article includes quotes that warn European buyers to steer away from buying imported gas from Turkmenistan. As the EU is placing strict limits on methane emissions and leaks. These plumes can emit to more than 100kg/hour, which is the same as running “20,000 SUVs”.

From what we have learned in class, this report is deeply concerning. Although methane emissions contribute a smaller percentage to climate change than carbon emissions. Harmful plumes from oil and gas facilities can alter our estimate of how much methane is actually contributing to climate change. As the article states, scientists have been very concerned about these specific methane emissions since 2007. Besides the fact that these plums can emit around the same amount as 20,000 SUVs, which by itself is concerning. But what is concerning, but also disturbing, is that the list created by UCLA researchers included only 4,400 significant plumes in 2025. Although it’s worth noting that it isn’t all "pessimistic" news, the EU plans to place stricter regulations to prevent these methane leaks. However, I don’t see why these facilities, such as those in Turkmenistan, fail to fix the problems that cause these methane leaks. Scientists say it is easy and cheap to repair these facilities so they no longer leak methane. Which leads me to question the intentions of the gas and oil facilities, as to why they aren’t making this simple correction.

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Revealed: the world’s worst mega-leaks of methane driving global heating

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Exclusive: Fixing a leak can be simple and equivalent to closing a coal power station, making lack of action maddening, say analysts

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Article #8: Managing nitrogen for food and environment 

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Article #8: Managing nitrogen for food and environment 

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The article discusses the challenge of managing nitrogen use in agriculture while protecting the environment. Nitrogen is essential for plant growth and food production, and the invention of the Haber-Bosch process which greatly increased the availability of synthetic fertilizers, helping to support global population growth. However, a large portion of applied nitrogen is not absorbed by crops and instead leaks into water, soil, and the atmosphere. This leads to serious environmental problems such as water pollution, eutrophication, air pollution, climate change, and soil degradation. The article also explain that nitrogen use has already exceeded safe environmental limits in many regions. At the same time, global food demand is expected to rise significantly by 2050, making it impossible to simple reduce fertilizer use. The article emphasizes improving nitrogen use efficiency through better farming practices, such as applying the right amount at the right time, improving soil quality, and reducing waste. It also highlights the need for policy changes and improved infrastructure to reduce nitrogen pollution from agriculture and other sectors.

In my opinion, the issue of nitrogen pollution is one of those problems where human progress has caused unexpected issues. Fertilizers made it possible to grow enough food for billions of people, which is a major achievement, but the way nitrogen is currently used is clearly not sustainable. Too much of it is wasted and ends ip harming ecosystems, polluting water, and contributing to climate change. I think the biggest concern is that we are already beyond safe environmental limits in many regions, yet food demand is still rising, so the pressure will only increase. This makes it urgent to improve farming efficiency rather than just increasing fertilizer use. In terms of solution I think we have to focus on smarter technology, better regulation, and more responsible agricultural practices so we can feed the population without damaging the planet.

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Managing nitrogen for food and environment - Nature Geoscience

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Unsustainable use of nitrogen fertilizers and ineffective control of nitrogen losses have resulted in various environmental issues. A key challenge for nitrogen management is to meet the food demands of a growing global population while reducing nitrogen pollution.

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Article #8: Amsterdam’s Ban on Meat and Fossil Fuel Advertising Comes Into Effect

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Article #8: Amsterdam’s Ban on Meat and Fossil Fuel Advertising Comes Into Effect

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Over 50 cities, mostly in Europe, have either restricted or tabled motions to introduce formal limitations on the advertising of polluting products and services. Amsterdam being the first capital city in the world to introduce such a policy. The ban spans high-carbon products and services like flights, petrol and diesel vehicles, gas heating contracts, as well as meat products like fast-food burgers across all public spaces in the city, including on billboards, public transport, and in transit environments. These services and products immensely contribute to climate change. “Advertising doesn’t just sell products; it grants social licence, shaping what we see as normal and acceptable,” said Andrea Mancuso, Community & Grants Manager at Creatives for Climate. Additionally, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has previously called on countries to ban fossil fuel advertising in the same way they restricted tobacco.

I found this article very hopeful and interesting. This ban on advertisements of polluting products and services is one step further towards saving our planet, and I hope it becomes a global trend. If cities around the world follow in the footsteps of cities like Amsterdam, we will help reduce fossil fuel emissions and overconsumption by drastic amounts. I truly hope that efforts like these help influence our own country and the United States government.

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Amsterdam’s Ban on Meat and Fossil Fuel Advertising Comes Into Effect | Earth.Org

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A ban on fossil fuel and meat advertising in public spaces came into effect on Friday in Amsterdam, the first capital city to do so.

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Article 8: US proposes endangered species protections for an imperiled Jamaican butterfly

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Article 8: US proposes endangered species protections for an imperiled Jamaican butterfly

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This article discusses the Jamaican kite swallowtail, a rare butterfly from Jamaica that is now close to extinction and is classified as endangered. Back in the 1960s, these butterflies had populations in the 700,000s, but now their largest number is expected to be around 250 in the wild. They are threatened by deforestation in Jamaica, as the trees that they inhabit are being cut down to make furniture and for cooking. The butterfly's breeding habitat has shrunk by about 70% since the 1960s, and extreme weather events and illegal trade are also contributing to their decline. This species of butterfly is especially vulnerable because it survives in only a few breeding areas in Jamaica and depends on one specific type of tree to survive. To help protect and conserve the species, the US government is listing the butterfly as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. If this is approved, it will make it illegal to import or sell the butterfly in the US, which will limit threats from people buying and selling butterflies illegally to use as home decor, which will hopefully help the species move towards conservation.

I think this article was nice to refresh my knowledge on biodiversity and endangered species, as it was my favorite unit we learned in ESS class. It is something that I hope to continue learning about in the future and possibly make a career out of, and it is comforting to know that in the US especially, there are incentives being taken to ensure protection of vulnerable and endangered species. I also think that conservation of insects especially is very important because they are huge contributors to photosynthesis and healthy carbon in the atmosphere, and if they go extinct, it will harm the base of many food chains but also harm plant life which is the base of all life on earth. I would like to see more action taken to conserve this species, and hopefully it sees sufficient results in its conservation status.

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US proposes endangered species protections for an imperiled Jamaican butterfly

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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recently proposed listing Jamaica’s most imperiled butterfly, the Jamaican kite swallowtail, as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The species (Protographium marcellinus), a small, fast-flying butterfly, flutters through its limestone forest home. Its wings, painted in streaks of bright turquoise and black with a dash of red, […]

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Article Review #8: Clear Waters, Murky Morals: When Humans Swim With Killer Whales

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Article Review #8: Clear Waters, Murky Morals: When Humans Swim With Killer Whales

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The article is about the impact of tourism on orcas. In Mexico and Norway, there is a large industry based around orcas. People can pay money to go on a boat tour, where they can sometimes get to swim with orcas. Although there has been no accidents involving this practice yet, scientists and experts say it is only a matter of time. The boats and swimmers are highly disturbing to the orcas, and the practice is not regulated well. Even when there are regulations, such as banning the use of drones, it is not common that people obey these regulations.

In my opinion, this practice needs to be more heavily regulated. The impact of human activity on these orcas is clearly very negative. This practice also brings in large amounts of money, though, which is why governments are hesitant to regulate it. This article also raises an interesting question, how can we measure the impacts of human disruption on wildlife without disturbing them more? Even the most non-invasive ways of tracking and managing wildlife can still disrupt their natural ways of being. Overall, I think tourists and scientists alike should maintain a certain level of awareness about the consequences of their actions.

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Article 8: The truth behind your $12 dress: Inside the Chinese factories fuelling Shein's success

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Article 8: The truth behind your $12 dress: Inside the Chinese factories fuelling Shein's success

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This article is about the working conditions inside fast fashion factories in China. And in specific, this article focuses on Shein. Using the phrase, “Shein village” this article talks about how the workers are in those factories for extremely long hours and even up to 75 hours a week, with only one day off each month. Many workers are paid by the number of clothing pieces they complete, meaning they must work faster and longer to earn enough money. The article also discusses how Shein’s low prices and huge success depend on this fast production system. At the same time, the company has faced criticism over unfair labor practices and low wage where allegations of forced labor stirred. The BBC investigation focuses on the economic importance of these factories and the social complexities faced by the workers.

This is a topic I felt alarmed and concerned about how workers are treated in the fast fashion industry. It was upsetting to learn that many people work such long hours to barely earn enough money for their families. The article made me realize that the cheap clothes many people buy come at the cost of workers’ health and well-being. And I honestly was not that surprised that these harsh conditions continue even though labor laws exist to protect workers, because companies can be very exploitative. At the same time, the article showed how workers feel trapped because they need the income, even if the work is exhausting. Overall, the article made me think more carefully about where clothing comes from and the hidden human cost behind fast fashion.

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Shein: Inside the Chinese factories fuelling the company’s success

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Workers making clothes for the fast fashion giant tell the BBC they labour for up to 75 hours a week.

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Article #8: At Water Week 2026, Local Leaders See a Glimmer of Hope

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Article #8: At Water Week 2026, Local Leaders See a Glimmer of Hope

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This article about Water Week 2026 focuses on both progress and ongoing concerns surrounding America’s water future. Local leaders and water professionals gathered in Washington, D.C. to push for stronger investments in water infrastructure and more support for low income households struggling to afford water bills. One development was the EPA’s proposal to begin addressing contaminants like microplastics in drinking water, showing that newer environmental threats are finally being taken more seriously. The conference also emphasized rebuilding the water workforce and modernizing outdated systems. However, the article makes it clear that many attendees are still worried that economic priorities often outweigh public health and environmental protection. While there were signs of progress, there was also frustration that climate resilience and water justice are not moving fast enough, especially as communities face pollution, aging infrastructure, and increasing climate related water crises.

I think this article is important because it shows that water issues are about health, climate change, inequality, and government responsibility. Clean water is something people often take for granted, but this article makes it obvious that protecting it requires constant investment and political will. I find it hopeful that issues like microplastics are finally being recognized, since that shows science and policy can still work together. At the same time, it’s concerning that economic interests still seem to come before environmental safety in many cases. If governments continue to delay action, the consequences could be serious, especially for lower income communities that are already more vulnerable. Overall, this issue feels worth studying because water security affects everyone, and without stronger leadership, future generations may face even greater challenges just to access safe water.

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At Water Week 2026, Local Leaders See a Glimmer of Hope - Inside Climate News

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed adding microplastics and pharmaceuticals to a list of contaminants in drinking water, but attendees still worried that the administration was prioritizing economic interests over climate and health issues.

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Article #8: Scientists say a critical Atlantic ocean current is weakening and the world could feel the impact

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Article #8: Scientists say a critical Atlantic ocean current is weakening and the world could feel the impact

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This article explains how scientists at the University of Miami found strong evidence that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, a major Atlantic Ocean current system that helps regulate Earth’s climate, has been weakening over the past 20 years. Using deep-ocean instruments and long-term measurements from multiple locations in the North Atlantic, researchers observed a widespread slowdown in the circulation system rather than a temporary change. The AMOC moves heat through the Atlantic Ocean and helps control temperatures, storms, rainfall, and sea levels around the world. Scientists warn that a weaker AMOC could lead to more extreme weather, stronger storms, changing rainfall patterns, colder winters in parts of Europe and North America, and rising sea levels along coastlines. Researchers believe climate change is a major cause of the slowdown, since melting ice from Greenland and the Arctic adds freshwater to the ocean, making it harder for cold, salty water to sink and keep the circulation moving.

This article highlights an important environmental issue that is often overlooked: The weakening of the AMOC. As Earth's natural circulation system slows, increased changes in temperatures and weather patterns could be felt across the world, as widespread differences were recently observed. Because the suspected cause of this is climate change, humans must work as one unit through enforced legislation and global intention to reduce carbon and methane emissions. Making a collective switch to clean energy will enable progress in both minimizing and preventing further climate change.

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Scientists say a critical Atlantic ocean current is weakening and the world could feel the impact

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Scientists have uncovered strong evidence that a major Atlantic Ocean current system tied to global climate is weakening. The slowdown has been detected across a vast region of the North Atlantic over nearly two decades. Since this ocean circulation helps regulate weather and temperatures, changes could affect storms, rainfall, sea levels, and even winter conditions in parts of Europe and North America.

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This article discusses how Rewilding Argetina and The Global Rewilding Alliance and their reintroduction of jaguars in Argentina. March 2024 marked a significant event as a female jaguar was released into El Impenetrable National Park in Argentina. This was considered an important step in the reestablishment of apex predator populations. Kerana (the jaguar) was followed by Nala, who was the first jaguar to be born in semi-captivity in the park. Other species are also being reintroduced through this project such as the giant river otter, marsh deer, red-footed tortoise, and lowland tapir. The rewilding efforts are also being expanded into Ibera Park. This project and the organizations focus largely on reintroducing keystone species which is the jaguar is at the forefront of their mission.

I always thought of jaguars as a species that dominated all of South America but seeing how limited their populations are further south is interesting. I think it's remarkable that these organizations have been able to successfully reintroduce these many jaguars into these parks, considering how many different countries they span. I would like to know if such an endeavor could be successfully done in the U.S.. Jaguars in the U.S. have seemingly been reintroducing themselves but because of the wall, I'd imagine it is quite difficult for more individuals to cross over. I wonder if with the help of organizations and projects like this, the jaguar populations within the U.S. would begin to grow.

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Rewilding Jaguars in Argentina: From Individuals to Ecosystems - The Global Rewilding Alliance

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Rewilding jaguars in Argentina is helping to bring balance to entire, complex ecosystems that rely on their crucial role.

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Article Review #8: Gray whales are entering San Francisco Bay and many aren’t surviving

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Article Review #8: Gray whales are entering San Francisco Bay and many aren’t surviving

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This article is about how gray whales are breaking their migration patterns. This is because climate change is disrupting their food source in the arctic. They are moving to places like the San Francisco Bay. This is very dangerous for them because “nearly one in five whales that enter the Bay don’t survive, with many struck by ships in the crowded, foggy waters”. They are very prone to this because gray whales don’t disrupt the water much when they surface. So, the foggy conditions worsen this. Additionally, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the population has declined by more than half since 2016, and sightings of calves have become rare.

I think this article is worrying but also very good to read because it gives us insight into how climate change is not just harming humans, but animals everywhere. I think it is promising that people are brainstorming ways to adapt, like educating commercial vessel operators, adjusting ferry routes, or implementing speed restrictions in high-risk areas. But I think that these must go hand in hand with mitigation methods and helping to rewild the gray whales' original habitat.

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Gray whales are entering San Francisco Bay and many aren’t surviving

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Gray whales are beginning to break their long-established migration patterns, venturing into risky new territory like San Francisco Bay as climate change disrupts their Arctic food supply. But this unexpected detour is proving deadly: nearly one in five whales that enter the Bay don’t survive, with many struck by ships in the crowded, foggy waters.

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#StopFoodWasteDay 2026: 11 Effective Solutions for Food Waste

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#StopFoodWasteDay 2026: 11 Effective Solutions for Food Waste

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Jangira Lewis's article, "11 Effective Solutions for Food Waste," offers comprehensive solutions to the food waste crisis and an overview of what is happening on our planet regarding it. The article mentions large producers and the various levels of responsibility between them and everyday consumers. It covers many strategies that work with our food system and crop diversity. It is a good article to reference since it simplifies the issue. It explains how to ethically buy food by looking at the food label and keeping track of expiration timelines. It explains the terms "sell by," "best by," and "use by" dates, as well as surface-level solutions for everyday consumption. The article is an informative piece for anyone looking to reduce their contribution to food waste.

This article is interesting since it not only claims food waste is a systemic issue but also an individual responsibility. It states that food systems are responsible for roughly 1/3 of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, and that food waste alone contributes 10% of that number, a strong indicator of overproduction in large companies. The article offers doable solutions and a promising shift toward less food waste if people take responsibility. I think the most effective option is using more circular food systems instead of linear ones so we can use waste as a resource. If businesses follow through, commit to decreasing their waste, and devote more time to creating solutions to this issue, then this can become achievable.

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Food waste is an environmental problem that needs to be eradicated, but it can also be seen as a business opportunity ready for innovative solutions. If we properly educate ourselves about food waste, we would see that taking the steps to reduce it can be an excellent way to save costs, generate profits and alleviate climate change. Here are effective solutions to tackle food waste for businesses, producers, retailers and consumers.
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The issue of food waste ranges from industrial to individual; there are many contributing factors towards why food is wasted, such as purchasing preferences, excess production, retail standards, convenience, cost and more.

Food waste affects all three realms of sustainability: environmental, economic and social. It is a societal issue that touches everyone around the globe, and it contributes to the larger issue of climate change. It has been estimated that food waste accounts for a third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions and generates 8% of greenhouse gases annually.

Solutions for food waste are needed now more than ever. Everyone can be a part of the solution to food waste, from large corporations to small communities. Innovators have explored food waste solutions in the science and technology industry, but there is still more that needs to be done.

Addressing food waste does not need to be a charitable thing or a form of philanthropy. What often goes unrecognised are the huge benefits that can be achieved from reducing food waste, and they are not just environmental. They can differ from improvements in one's health, to profits generated in a company with innovative solutions to tackle the crisis.

If businesses redirect excess food to communities with limited access to it, they can save money and reduce their methane emissions at the same time. Educating the public about the benefits of reducing food waste will also encourage businesses and consumers to monitor their waste more closely.

Creating Circular Food Systems

Businesses can benefit in the reduction of food waste economically, socially and on a broader scale, environmentally.

The aim of the project was to determine how easily these changes can be adapted to fit the individual lifestyles of consumers.

The stakeholders involved work in Maine's food-related industries, such as grocery stores, farms, restaurants, and hospitals. Key stakeholders included Hannaford, Northern Light: Maine Coast Hospital, City of Portland, and the Maine DEP, as well as many others.
1. Measuring and tracking all food storage
They recommended food systems to be reworked from a linear one into a circular one. In a linear system, there is a simple relationship between production to consumption, in which the end result is waste. However, with a circular economy, the goal is to recycle waste into a resource that can be used to create new products.
2. Creating a "Food Rescue" system
The study was successful in that stakeholders were interested in collaboration at the end of the project. It also highlighted the importance of education and accessibility to landfill alternatives. Six solutions were developed from the collaboration in the project:
3. Promoting statewide consumer and producer waste education
Businesses were encouraged to use pre-existing food waste tracking technology. These systems can help make businesses aware of the money they are wasting on food waste that never gets to consumers.
4. Building of food handling and processing infrastructure
This solution utilised a web-based system that matched locally available food to local food needs and volunteers to transfer the food to the ones that need it.

Consumer education and awareness about the food system and the waste was encouraged. Doing so helped people see the true value of the food they are purchasing. There is a general lack of awareness, so implementing education programmes in schools can be an effective way to educate the public.
5. Educate producers on the advantages of donating
This solution focuses on "upcycling" food that is already in the system, e.g. turning tomatoes into tomato sauce and increasing demand in canning and processing food for long-term storage.
6. Composting alternatives
The aim here is to connect key members of the food system and create synergy among handling and processing stakeholders. Primary issues to be addressed are transportation availability, storage limitations, and restrictions associated with food donation.

This solution is also related to the second solution. The primary goal for this solution is to educate stakeholders on food donation incentives, legal protection, and offer guidance on relevant governmental agencies.

This solution aims to increase available options for composting and other alternatives to disposal of food in landfills. Developing statewide practices to divert food waste from landfills can make huge cost savings possible.

Changing Food Crops
1. On-farm storage
The International Panel of Climate Change (IPCC) recommends producers and farmers to consider a change in crops. They believe that improving food security and lowering greenhouse gas emissions can be achieved through changing what we eat, and growing more sustainable and hardy crops. These types of crops can be ones that are low maintenance, can cope with extreme weather events, and crops that can be interspersed with pastures and arable land.
2. Value-added products
Avoiding deforestation for additional farmland could also prevent more than 70 gigatons of greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Secondary markets that produce delivery services
On-farm storage is a great way to reduce post-harvest loss. Farmers should have effective, safe and accessible storage for their products. Some countries might offer a farm storage facility loan programme (USDA) where they provide low-interest financing to help producers build or upgrade storage.
4. Donations
This is where you can enhance the value of products by upcycling them into another product. The potential to reduce food waste can be made if we create value-added products. An example of this could be processing berries into jam etc.
5. Feeding animals
There are many businesses in some countries that offer weekly or bimonthly boxes of food products that have been directly sourced from the farmers. Farmers could directly collaborate with these markets to effectively control their food production.

Donations from farmers can help provide individuals with fresh produce if they have limited access to it. There have been laws and programs created to make donations easy - liability protection, tax benefits, picking and pack-out costs, gleaning etc.

Using the food scraps as feed for animals can also be done. This is a common practice that has been around for centuries and is an easy way to divert food waste.

Redirecting Food Surplus and Educational Campaigns

Food waste from restaurants and business constitutes 28% of the food wasted. To rectify this, we can push for policies that limit waste and redirect uneaten food to places where it is needed. This can be in the form of food recovery programmes to direct surplus to shelters.

There are other wide varieties of changes retailers can make in order to reduce their food waste. Some of these include upgrading their hardware with the latest technology, focusing on long-term sustainability rather than maximising returns from a product in the short-term, modifying their policies and regulations and ensuring all food is accepted to be sold etc.

Supermarkets can also create campaigns, where they provide education, inspiration and advice to their customers. Sainsbury's - the second largest chain of supermarkets in the UK - research found that people look to supermarkets for guidance on how to tackle food waste , therefore retailers could provide literature in the form of magazines and membership programmes, that can provide ideas on how customers can prevent food waste, as well as recipes on how to utilise leftover food.

A good example is the rising number of "wonky" vegetable initiatives that have been implemented by supermarkets in recent years. These initiatives encourage consumers to buy food that does not meet aesthetic criteria, and they have been marketed in a way to make them appealing. In 2021, it was reported that Tesco's food waste scheme Perfectly Imperfect saved at least 50 million packs of fruit and vegetables from being discarded .

Rethink Our Food Perceptions and Habits

Food waste is also the responsibility of us as individuals, as food waste at home can amount to 37% of overall food waste. We need to change our habits in ways that significantly reduce the amount of food that we waste.
Key facts to help consumers 1. "Sell by" date
We also need to change our minds and the way we perceive food. Rather than preparing and cooking a meal we are in the mood for, we should base our cooking decisions off of the food we see in the fridge that needs to be used first.
2. "Best if used by (or before)" date
Changes to our diet also need to be made. Experts have stated that there is too much fish, fats, sugars, dairy products and processed foods in our diets. Aside from incorporating more fruit and vegetables in our diets, Dr. Debra Roberts, co-chair of IPCC Working Group II, has recommended that we change our diet to consist primarily of low-CO2 emission food. By doing so, we can ensure that we maintain a balanced diet based on foods such as secondary cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, and even animal foods obtained with low CO2 emissions. We can do this by making conscious decisions to eat food that has a low carbon footprint such as plant-based foods. Meal-prepping is another great way to save time and resources, which can also prevent you from overbuying during food shopping.
3. "Guaranteed fresh" date
This is the date the retailer should display the product until withdrawing it from the shelves. This date does not indicate that the food has spoiled, but merely specifies the day that it will be past its best quality. The food is still safe to consume.
4. "Pack date"
This date is for sellers and indicates when the food will be at its best quality to eat. It does not mean the food is inedible after this date, but merely informs the customer of when the best time to consume the food will be for it's flavour and freshness etc.
5. "Use By" date
This date refers to the date when the item is at its optimal freshness. This is usually used for bakery items.
6. "Expires on" date
This is usually the date on canned or packaged food. This date tells us when the product was packed. It does not indicate when it needs to be consumed by.

This is the last date that the manufacturer guarantees the product to be at its maximum quality.

This date refers to the date that it is recommended that the product should be consumed by. If you decide to eat the food after the date, it is at your own risk.

Overall, knowing the meaning of these dates is useful. However, it should be noted that some manufacturers might not put them on their products. For example, if you go to a meat market or a fish market, you may receive products in an ordinary bag, without a label.

Milk - usually safe after one week after selling

Eggs - often fine from three - five weeks from the date of purchase

Poultry and seafood - cook or freeze within one or two days after purchase

Beef or pork - cook or freeze within three-five days

Canned goods - five-18 months, depending on the acidity of the product

Benefits of Reducing Food Waste at Home
Featured image by: Marco Verch (CC BY 2.0)
Even though you will be making a conscious effort to help the environment, you will also be receiving benefits from reducing your food waste:

1. Money saved by planning what to buy properly

2. Maintaining a healthy weight and preventing overeating

3. Lessening the chances of food poisoning in your household, as storing contaminated food could accidentally be consumed without you realising

4. A well-organised, fresh-smelling pantry. There will be no bad smell or messy food waste around your pantry

5. Pest control You can keep away pests, such as rats, flies and cockroaches

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Food waste is an environmental problem that needs to be eradicated, but it can also be seen as a business opportunity ready for innovative solutions. If we properly educate ourselves about food waste, we would see that taking the steps to reduce it can be an excellent way to save costs, generate profits and alleviate climate change.

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NASA captured an image of swirling cloud patterns, called von Kármán vortex streets, forming downwind of Peter I Island near Antarctica. These spirals occur when strong winds flow around obstacles, creating alternating rotating eddies. The Southern Ocean’s powerful winds, known as the “Roaring Forties” and beyond, make this phenomenon possible. The image was taken by Landsat 8 in February 2026, showing clouds shaped by airflow disruption. Wind speeds must be moderate for vortices to form; stronger winds break them apart. This rare event highlights atmospheric dynamics and demonstrates how remote islands influence cloud formation and wind behavior.

This article is fascinating because it shows how something as simple as wind interacting with an island can create such beautiful and complex patterns in the sky. The image of swirling clouds highlights the hidden order within nature and makes atmospheric science feel more tangible and visual. It also emphasizes how even remote, seemingly insignificant places can have noticeable effects on their environment. I think it’s especially interesting that these patterns only form under specific conditions, which shows how delicate and balanced natural systems are. Overall, the article makes science feel more engaging by connecting physical processes to striking real-world imagery.

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Icy, isolated Peter I Island stirred up a show in the atmosphere off the West Antarctic coast.

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Article #8: A complicated future for a methane-cleansing molecule

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Article #8: A complicated future for a methane-cleansing molecule

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Located in the troposphere are molecules that act as atmospheric "detergents" as they help get rid of methane and other pollutants. Methane (CH4) is the second most powerful greenhouse gas when it comes to driving up temperature, second only to Carbon Dioxide (CO2). This is due to the relative abundance of gasses, methane has a higher global warming potential than CO2. As we continue to emit greenhouse gases their effects on human health and the global system in general are felt on a more extreme level. However, there is a molecule called hydroxyl radical (OH) that does a very good job of degrading pollutants in the troposphere. OH molecules are highly reactive as they contain an unpaired electron. Due to their importance in maintaining a balanced atmosphere, scientists are eager to study how they will react to the inevitably warming temperatures. A team of MIT scientists developed a model to simulate how OH concentrations will shift depending on temperature. Their model is called “AquaChem” because it simulates an Earth that is entirely covered by ocean. In the model, different atmospheric factors were incorporated separately in order to isolate their impacts on OH. Based on the study, it was concluded that the increased presence of water vapor increased the molecules concentration. This makes sense as OH is produced when ozone interacts with sunlight in the presence of water vapor. It was also found that biogenic emissions from plants can reduce hydroxyl radicals as well as decrease the “boosting” effect from the water vapor. These natural emissions are carbon based gases mainly composed of isoprenoids, released during transpiration. In the end it was found that if average global temperatures rise by degrees Celsius the water vapor increases concentrations by 9% but biogenic emissions will decrease it by 6%.

This article was very interesting because it’s an example of the type of study that is vital for understanding the uncertain future of climate change. Hydroxyl radicals are among the natural occurrences in the atmosphere that help mitigate our greenhouse gas emissions. It's important that we attempt to understand these processes so we can protect them or even try and replicate them in an artificial way. Even as OH works to break down CH4, more continues to accumulate due to human action. Understanding the future of OH levels will help us understand the future of methane levels and our safety on the planet.

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MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of Technology

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A complicated future for a methane-cleansing molecule

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Using a new model to study hydroxyl radicals (OH) — known as the “atmosphere’s detergent” for their ability to break down the powerful greenhouse gas methane — MIT scientists found a warming climate could lead to a modest increase in OH levels.

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New Study Shows Risks of Amazon Deforestation. And Rewards of Protection.

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Article #8: New Study Shows Risks of Amazon Deforestation. And Rewards of Protection.

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Article #8: New Study Shows Risks of Amazon Deforestation. And Rewards of Protection.

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The Amazon rainforest is one of the most crucial, and at-risk, ecosystems in the world. It is one of the world's most significant carbon sinks, and a hub of biodiversity. In recent years, due to climate change and deforestation, the Amazon is at risk of "a gradual transition to a degraded, grassland-like ecosystem in just a few decades, according to new research." Deforestation is already a serious concern for the Amazon due to the trees -- the core of the ecosystem -- being felled, but there is an additional effect too: increased warming. Trees in rainforests act as weather regulators, taking in water from the soil, which then evaporates and can come back down as rainfall. When trees are felled, this cycle is broken, reducing rainfall and thus increasing temperatures. Reduced rainfall means less plant growth, and this creates a knock-on effect where the land degrades. This is a positive feedback loop that, barring significant changes, will devastate the Amazon rainforest.

I think that the Amazon rainforest collapsing would be one of the most catastrophic climate events possible, as we would lose "the Earth's lungs," one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, and a home and source of livelihood for millions, many of whom are poor and indigenous. All the natural resources provided by the Amazon would vanish, and the strain placed on other ecosystems to produce the same amount of capital to sustain our consumption habits would be astronomical. Solutions to this exist; it is up to those in power to allow them to be implemented. However, in the current political climate, it is unlikely this will occur.

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Article #8: Global greenhouse gas emissions hit record high with sharp increases in Russia, China

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Article #8: Global greenhouse gas emissions hit record high with sharp increases in Russia, China

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The article explains that global greenhouse gas emissions reached a record high of 60.63 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2025, according to data from Climate TRACE. The increase was mainly driven by rising emissions in countries such as China and Russia, with fossil fuel production being the largest contributor. China remained the world’s biggest emitter, followed by the United States and India, while Russia showed the sharpest increase among major economies. Although emissions from the power sector slightly declined for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased use of renewable energy in countries like China and India, global emissions still continued to rise overall. The article also highlights how transportation, manufacturing, and oil and gas production continue to worsen climate change despite global efforts to transition toward cleaner energy sources.

In my perspective, the article demonstrates how difficult it is for the world to have a balance between economic expansion and environmental protection. The total rise in emissions indicates that existing climate initiatives are still insufficient, even though some nations are making progress through cleaner technologies and renewable energy. The fact that the fossil fuel industry is still growing while scientists are constantly warning about the long-term effects of climate change, like more severe natural disasters, rising sea levels, and high temperatures, worries me. But the modest drop in emissions from the electricity industry also shows that, if nations take renewable energy more seriously, it can actually have an impact. Overall, the article highlights the critical need for increased international collaboration and quicker shifts away from fossil fuels.

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Global greenhouse gas emissions hit record high with sharp increases in Russia, China

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Global greenhouse gas emissions increased by 303.2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2025, reaching 60.63 billion tonnes, according to data from US-based international climate science organization Climate TRACE | Anadolu

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Article 8: The biodiversity crisis is hiding in your grass

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Article 8: The biodiversity crisis is hiding in your grass

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This article discusses the intertwined relationship between humans and nature, specifically in reference to their lawns. Our lawns fail to sequester carbon, do not support pollinators, and wreck watersheds. This is especially important as, currently, two-thirds of Earth’s wildlife is gone, and 40 percent of Earth’s plants face extinction. This inequitable use of our lawns is pushing the planet toward a sixth mass extinction. Scientist Doug Tallamy warns that lawns create “ecological dead space,” while native plants, especially oaks, are essential for healthy ecosystems. Loss of habitat, pesticides, invasive species, and climate change are causing declines in wildlife and pollinators. Tallamy encourages homeowners to reduce lawns, plant native species, and use fewer harmful lights and chemicals. He remains hopeful because nature can recover when native plants return. Communities like the Olesons’ property in Iowa demonstrate how small changes can restore biodiversity and support healthier ecosystems.

I think this article is very important because it shows how even small choices, like the plants we grow in our yards, can affect the environment. Before reading, I did not realize that lawns and non-native plants could harm insects, birds, and pollinators so much. I agree with Doug Tallamy that people need to take action instead of ignoring the problem. The suggestions he gave, such as planting native species and reducing lawns, seem simple but effective. I also liked the hopeful message that nature can recover if we make better choices. Overall, the article encourages people to care more about protecting biodiversity and wildlife.

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Article 8- “New Zealand Proposes Bill to Recognize Legal Rights of Pacific Whales”

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Article 8- “New Zealand Proposes Bill to Recognize Legal Rights of Pacific Whales”

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The article explains a new law that could give whales legal rights and better protection in New Zealand. The bill would treat whales as living beings with importance instead of just resources humans can use. It talks about how whales are threatened by pollution, fishing, ship strikes, and climate change. I think the article does a good job showing why whales are important to ocean ecosystems and why they need stronger protection. I also liked how the article included Indigenous Māori beliefs, which view whales as ancestors and important spiritual beings. This makes the article more meaningful because it connects culture with environmental protection. Overall, the article is informative and hopeful because it shows that governments are trying new ideas to help endangered animals and improve conservation efforts in the Pacific Ocean.

I think this bill is a very positive step for the environment because whales are important for keeping oceans healthy. Protecting whales can also help other marine species and ecosystems survive. I think giving whales legal rights is a creative idea, but countries also need stricter environmental laws to make a real difference. One possible solution is creating larger protected ocean areas where fishing and pollution are limited. Governments should also reduce plastic waste and make ships safer for whales to avoid accidents. I believe humans should respect nature more instead of only focusing on money and development. If other countries follow New Zealand’s example, it could improve whale conservation around the world and help reduce the loss of biodiversity in oceans.

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New Zealand Could Recognize the Legal Rights of Pacific Whales

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The proposed legislation advances an ecocentric legal framework aimed at strengthening the protection of whales inhabiting the Pacific Ocean.

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Article #8 Rapid shrinking of river deltas 

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Article #8 Rapid shrinking of river deltas 

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The article from Virginia Tech highlights an often overlooked environmental crisis, the rapid sinking of the world’s major river deltas. While global conversations often focus on rising sea levels, this research reveals that the land in these fertile regions is actually dropping at a rate significantly faster than the ocean is rising. The study points to human activity as the primary driver, specifically the over-extraction of groundwater, minerals, and sand, alongside the construction of upstream dams that trap the sediment needed to naturally replenish these deltas. Because these areas serve as global "food bowls"supporting massive agricultural outputs and hundreds of millions of people. The sinking land creates a catastrophic vulnerability to flooding and saltwater intrusion. This process turns once-productive farmland into saline marshes, effectively destroying the soil’s ability to support crops. By focusing on 40 major deltas, the article illustrates that this is not a localized issue but a systemic failure of modern resource management that threatens global food security and economic stability.

In my view, this article is a sobering reminder of the "technocentric" trap that Environmental Systems and Societies students often study. We have engineered massive irrigation and hydroelectric systems to support a growing population, yet those very successes have created a feedback loop that is now undermining the physical foundation of our civilizations. It is deeply ironic that our attempts to maximize food production through groundwater pumping are the exact reason the land is now becoming too salty and unstable to farm. From an environmental perspective, this highlights the urgent need for a more "ecocentric" or holistic approach to water management. We cannot continue to treat groundwater as an infinite resource or dams as harmless infrastructure; we must recognize that sediment flow and aquifer pressure are essential ecosystem services. This study should serve as a wake-up call that "climate change" is not just about the atmosphere or the melting poles, but about how we physically manipulate the Earth’s crust. If we do not shift toward sustainable, circular water use, we risk losing the world’s most productive ecosystems to a disaster of our own making.

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Major river deltas are sinking faster than sea-level rise

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A new study published in Nature finds human-driven land sinking now outpaces sea-level rise in many of the world’s major delta systems, threatening more than 236 million people.

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Bigger cars waste more fuel, spew more pollution, take up more space, and pack more punch in a crash. In Europe, most new cars sold are SUVs.

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Article #8 - ‘At a crossroads’: will piling-up crises force Europe to put brakes on SUV culture?

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Article #8 - ‘At a crossroads’: will piling-up crises force Europe to put brakes on SUV culture?

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The article discusses how Europe is starting to question its growing “car culture,” especially the rise of large SUVs and trucks similar to those common in the United States. It explains that larger vehicles produce more pollution, take up more space, and can be more dangerous to pedestrians and cyclists. The article also links car dependence to problems such as climate change, traffic congestion, poor public health, and unsafe streets. Some European cities, like Paris and London, are trying to reduce car use by improving public transportation and bike infrastructure. Overall, the article argues that Europe is at a turning point and must decide between continuing US-style car culture or moving toward more sustainable transportation systems.

I thought the article was interesting because it showed how transportation choices can affect the environment and people’s daily lives. I think the article makes a strong point that larger SUVs and trucks increase pollution and make cities less safe and less sustainable. Examples of European cities working to improve public transportation and reduce car use showed that governments can take action to lower environmental impacts. However, the article focuses more on the negatives of large vehicles and less on why some people rely on them. Overall, the article gives a clear warning about the environmental and social effects of the growth of car culture.

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‘At a crossroads’: will piling-up crises force Europe to put brakes on SUV culture?

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Bigger cars including electric can cause multiple harms, yet resistance to rise of US-style vehicles has had mixed support

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changing their normal migration route because climate change is affecting their food supply in the Arctic. Normally, these whales travel long distances between Arctic feeding areas and warm breeding lagoons in Baja Mexico without stopping to feed much along the way. However, because their Arctic food sources are becoming less reliable, some whales are now entering San Francisco Bay to search for food. This is a dangerous change because the Bay is heavily used by ships and is often foggy, making it hard for whales to be seen. The article reports that nearly 20% of the whales that enter the Bay do not survive, and many of these deaths are caused by ship strikes. Scientists also tracked whales between 2018 and 2025 and found that most whales only appear in the Bay once, meaning they do not return in later years. This suggests the Bay is not a normal migration stop but more of an emergency feeding area for weak or starving whales. In total, 70 whales were found dead in the region during the study period, showing how serious the situation has become.

Overall, the situation shows how climate change is forcing animals into unsafe environments and increasing their risk of death. A major issue is that San Francisco Bay is a busy shipping route, especially around the Golden Gate Strait, which acts like a bottleneck where whales and ships must pass through the same space. This makes collisions more likely, especially in foggy conditions. The article also shows that over 40% of stranded whales in the wider region died from vessel strikes, which is a very high number. Possible solutions include slowing down ships in high-risk areas, changing ferry and shipping routes, and improving monitoring systems so whales can be detected earlier. Educating ship operators could also reduce accidents. In my opinion, this situation shows how human activity and climate change are combining to create serious threats for marine life, and it shows the need for urgent protection measures before whale deaths increase even more

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Gray whales are entering San Francisco Bay and many aren’t surviving

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Gray whales are beginning to break their long-established migration patterns, venturing into risky new territory like San Francisco Bay as climate change disrupts their Arctic food supply. But this unexpected detour is proving deadly: nearly one in five whales that enter the Bay don’t survive, with many struck by ships in the crowded, foggy waters.

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Article #8: Overfishing threatens the world’s oceans—but there may be hope

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Article #8: Overfishing threatens the world’s oceans—but there may be hope

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This article talks about how overfishing is threatening the world's oceans, but how there is still a sense of hope. Fishing is happening too fast for the species to even replace themselves. Overfishing started when humans were seeking blubber from whales for lamp oil, and it has been a reocurring trend since then. Another cause of overfishing is the big industrial fishing operation, which often replace the local fishers in coastal communities to catch their fish. Due to overfishing, the fish population in the oceans have been declining since 1989. The effects from overfishing have had a huge impact on biodiversity. Coral reefs are becoming vulnerable, because the reefs rely on the fish to eat algae. Fishing for too many herbivores can weaken the reefs and make them more succeptible to being destroyed by extreme weather events and climate change.

From an environmental view point, the issue of overfishing will continue to have very detrimental effects if nothing changes, because it messes up the marine ecosystems and food chains. To prevent overfishing, many scientists say that most fish populations could be restored with aggressive fisheries management and better enforcement of laws governing catches, including instituting catch limits. An increased use of aquaculture, which is farming of seafood, would also help.

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How overfishing threatens the world’s oceans—and why it could end in catastrophe

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Decades of harvesting the seas have disrupted the delicate balance of marine ecosystems—despite global efforts to mitigate the damage.

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Article #8: Amsterdam’s Ban on Meat and Fossil Fuel Advertising Comes Into Effect

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Article #8: Amsterdam’s Ban on Meat and Fossil Fuel Advertising Comes Into Effect

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The article on Amsterdam’s new ban on meat and fossil fuel advertising presents an environmental policy that reflects the city’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and shifting public behavior toward sustainability. The article explains how advertising shapes consumer norms, arguing that promoting high-carbon products normalizes environmentally harmful choices. By comparing these restrictions to anti-smoking ad bans, the article highlights how governments can use public policy to influence social attitudes over time. I think the article is informative and persuasive because it backs its claims with evidence about the environmental impact of fossil fuels and livestock production, while also showing that this is part of a broader international movement involving cities like The Hague, Stockholm, and Edinburgh. From an ecocentric perspective, the policy prioritizes the health of ecosystems over corporate profits, emphasizing humanity’s responsibility to reduce environmental harm.

From my environmental viewpoint, I support Amsterdam’s policy because it combines ecocentric values with a technocentric understanding of how systems and behavior can be redesigned for sustainability. Reducing exposure to ads for polluting products can help shift consumer culture, but advertising bans should only be one part of a larger strategy. Simply removing ads does not automatically lead people to accessible alternatives, especially if sustainable transportation or food options are expensive or inconvenient. A stronger solution would involve pairing ad restrictions with investments in green infrastructure, such as expanding electric public transit, making plant-based foods more affordable, and supporting clean-energy technology innovation. This technocentric approach uses human innovation to solve environmental challenges while still recognizing ecological limits. For example, Amsterdam could subsidize local sustainable businesses and launch public awareness campaigns promoting low-carbon lifestyles rather than only restricting harmful messaging. In my view, real climate progress happens when governments both discourage damaging behaviors and actively make sustainable choices easier to follow.

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Amsterdam’s Ban on Meat and Fossil Fuel Advertising Comes Into Effect | Earth.Org

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A ban on fossil fuel and meat advertising in public spaces came into effect on Friday in Amsterdam, the first capital city to do so.

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Article #8: A Strong El Nino May Be Coming: Global Warming is Changing Its Effects

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Article #8: A Strong El Nino May Be Coming: Global Warming is Changing Its Effects

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A strong El Nino could develop later this year, with effects enhanced due to global warming. Climate change is causing the impacts to be more extreme and less predictable. Normally, El Nino brings wetter conditions to the Southern US and South America, and drought to the Amazon, Asia, and South Africa. Recently, these effects have changed or grown into intense floods, wildfires, and droughts. This is because the warmer atmosphere increases evaporation and holds more moisture. There are also faster changes between El Nino and La Nina, which could influence ocean currents and overall seasonal patterns.

In my opinion, this is another unfortunate side effect of climate change. I think we need to focus on restoring our planet using sustainable methods of agriculture and transportation to minimize global warming. It is becoming clear through recent events that global warming is not just an issue for wildlife, but also an issue for us as humans. More severe storms, floods, and droughts not only threaten ecosystems, but also our societies. I think we need to take this issue extremely seriously and recognize the threat to our civilizations. That being said, I think we need increased awareness worldwide and more government intervention to enforce sustainable lifestyles.

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This article talks about how food waste is a major global issue, with one third of all food produced being lost or wasted. The process of food waste has different levels. Food loss is what occurs during production and transportation, while food waste is what happens at the retail and consumer level in countries like the U.S. Food waste contributes to global hunger and wastes resources that are necessary to people in need. Food waste contributes to the climate by producing enough greenhouse gas emissions to rank among the world's largest emitters. For example if food waste was eliminated, there would be enough food to feed around 2 billion people. There has been some help towards this topic such as the World Food Program supplying better food storage and finding new innovations to stop the problem.

I think this topic is important to talk about because even though there are so many issues that affect humans and humans in need, there are just as many negatives towards our climate. When food is thrown away it ends up in a landfill and decomposes without methane, producing methane that traps heat in the atmosphere. Growing food uses land, water, fuel, and energy and when the food gets wasted all the resources are wasted meaning we have used unnecessary emissions. Methods such as farming and using tractors, transportation and shipping food over long distances, and the storage and packaging process are all steps that release carbon and other greenhouse gasses.

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Curdled milk, rotting apples and expired meat. We're taking a closer look at the staggering amount of food humans waste every year and how your fridge can be part of the solution.
Read on to learn how and why we waste food, how losing all that precious food makes vulnerable people hungrier and what you - yes, you! - can do about it.

How Much Food Do We Waste Every Year?

Globally, one trillion dollars' worth of food goes to waste every year. That's one-third of all food produced for human consumption ( 1.3 billion tons of it). Before we get into how all that food waste affects hunger, here are a few key facts to keep in mind:

1. Food loss is when food gets damaged as it moves through the supply chain (think rotting bananas and spilled milk). Food waste is when edible or surplus food is thrown away by retailers or consumers (like when restaurants order too much food and throw out the extras).

2. If wasted food were a country, it would be the third-largest producer of carbon dioxide in the world after the United States and China.

3. Rich countries waste as much food as sub-Saharan Africa produces. According to the U.N. Environment Programme, industrialized countries in North America, Europe and Asia collectively waste 222 million tons of food each year. Meanwhile, countries in sub-Saharan Africa produce 230 million tons of food each year.

4. Finally, the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says that if we stopped wasting all that food, we'd save enough to feed 2 billion people . That's more than twice the number of undernourished people across the globe.

Check out more facts about food waste.
Related articles you might be interested in:

Food Waste, Climate Change and Hunger: A Vicious Cycle
How to Take Action to Prevent Food Waste
3 Myths About Food Waste

How and Why Does Food Get Wasted?

In industrialized countries like the United States, 31 percent of food waste happens at retail and consumer levels. Think about all the food we toss out at home, what we leave on our plates at restaurants, and what ends up in grocery store trash bins. At an agricultural level, our food system produces imperfect or "ugly" foods that get trashed for no good reason.

There's also a big difference between how food is wasted or lost in countries around the world. In developing countries, most food loss happens during or after harvest time. Farmers face problems like

poor storage

outdated technology

not enough manpower

transportation challenges getting crops to markets

Together, these problems mean that too many small-scale farmers are forced to watch their crops - and livelihoods - rot.

Why Is Food Waste Such a Big Problem?

We're locked in a terrible cycle when it comes to food waste, climate change and hunger.

Wasted food requires energy, land, water and labor to produce, store, harvest, transport, package and sell. When we toss out food, we're throwing away precious resources that could have been used to feed hungry people. And all that rotting food produces three billion tons of greenhouse gases like methane, directly contributing to climate change.
Read more about food waste, climate change and hunger.
How Reducing Food Waste Can Help End World Hunger

If we stopped wasting food, we could cut global emissions by 8 percent, free up valuable land and resources, and save enough food to feed 2 billion hungry people .

Here are a few ways the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is fighting food waste and loss:

1. Food Storage: Small-scale farmers can lose up to half of their harvest because they don't have access to modern storage equipment. We provide them with silos and air-tight bags to cut their post-harvest losses from 40 to 2 percent.

2. Nonperishables: Our typical food ration includes long-lasting staples like flour, dried beans, salt and cooking oil - all packaged in sturdy containers. These are all long-lasting foods so nothing spoils or gets thrown away.

3. Innovation: From hydroponics to virtual farmers markets, we're helping communities find new ways to grow, sell and store food despite challenging environments.

4. Policy: The U.S. Farm Bill authorizes distributing excess American-grown crops like rice, corn, wheat and soybeans to hungry people. It's just one of the many policies we work on to end hunger.

Ways to Reduce Food Waste at Home

Food waste in the United States and other high-income countries is one of the easiest problems to solve. Here are few simple ways you can help:

1. Plan your meals and write a shopping list. And check your fridge to see what you've already got. This will help you avoid buying unnecessary food.

2. Careful buying in bulk - especially foods with a limited shelf life.

3. Ask if you can buy the "ugly" fruits or veggies that get left behind at grocery stores. There are even companies that will help you get direct access to this kind of produce, and it's often cheaper.

4. Check the temperature setting of your fridge. Keep the temperature at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below to keep foods safe. The temperature of your freezer should be zero degrees Fahrenheit.

5. And use your freezer! Freezing is a great way to keep food longer.

6. Make a spot in your fridge for food on its last legs - and have a plan to eat it.

7. If you have more food than you can eat, donate it or hand it off to a neighbor or friend.

8. Remember the food you took to-go and bask in the joy of restaurant leftovers!

As the FAO says, our food systems can't be resilient if they aren't sustainable. As we fight food waste at home and around the world, and make our food production systems more efficient, we can free up those resources for the hungry.
Learn more about food waste and global hunger.

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How Food Waste Affects World Hunger - World Food Program USA

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Humans - and our food systems - waste a staggering amount of food. It's a global mess, and one we need to face head on if we're going to win the fight against hunger.

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Article #7: Three Tough Truths About Climate

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Article #7: Three Tough Truths About Climate

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The main argument of this article is that the way we currently think about climate change needs to shift. Bill Gates presents three key ideas. first, that climate change is serious but not the end of civilization; second, that focusing only on global temperature or emissions isn’t the best way to measure progress; and third, that improving human welfare, like health, agriculture, and economic development, should be the main priority. He argues that too much attention is placed on short-term emissions goals, which can sometimes take resources away from more effective solutions, especially in poorer countries. Instead, he believes innovation in clean energy, better infrastructure, and economic growth can both reduce emissions and improve lives at the same time.

I think this article presents a perspective that’s different from what we usually hear, and that’s what makes it worth paying attention to. I agree with the idea that climate change solutions should also focus on improving people’s lives, especially in developing countries where issues like poverty and health are immediate concerns. However, I also think Gates might be downplaying how urgent climate change really is. Even if it won’t “end civilization,” it can still cause serious damage, especially for vulnerable populations. I do think his focus on innovation and long-term solutions is important, but it shouldn’t replace efforts to reduce emissions right now. Overall, this article made me think more critically about how we measure success in climate action.

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A new approach for the world’s climate strategy | Bill Gates

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Bill Gates explains why the world’s climate change strategy should focus on human welfare—even more than temperatures or greenhouse gas emissions.

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Article #6: Nicholas Stern, economist: ‘Degrowth is a diversion and a conspiracy against the developing world’

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Article #6: Nicholas Stern, economist: ‘Degrowth is a diversion and a conspiracy against the developing world’

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This article features an interview with economist Nicholas Stern, who argues strongly against the idea of “degrowth,” or reducing economic growth to fight climate change. He claims that degrowth is a distraction from the real goal, which is transforming economies to be cleaner and more sustainable. Stern believes that economic growth and climate action can actually work together, especially through investments in renewable energy and new technologies. He also argues that degrowth could harm developing countries, since they still need economic growth to improve living standards. According to Stern, these countries should be allowed to grow, but in a cleaner way than wealthier nations did in the past. He emphasizes that fighting climate change is not just necessary, but also an opportunity for economic progress.

I think this article presents an interesting and realistic perspective on climate change and economic growth. A lot of discussions about sustainability focus on cutting back or limiting growth, but Stern’s argument shows that growth itself isn’t the problem. I agree that developing countries shouldn’t be forced to slow down their progress, especially when wealthier nations became rich through environmentally harmful practices. At the same time, I think it’s important to be careful, because not all growth is automatically sustainable, even with new technology. There still needs to be strong regulation and accountability to make sure industries actually reduce their environmental impact. Overall, this article made me think more critically about solutions to climate change. Instead of just saying “use less,” it suggests we should focus on changing systems, which seems more practical and fair in the long run.

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Nicholas Stern, economist: ‘Degrowth is a diversion and a conspiracy against the developing world’

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The British lord, an expert on the ecological transition, argues that ‘Trump is a short-term problem in relation to a long-term process, which is inexorable’

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Article Review #5: Steady Increase in Conservation Tillage for Corn and Soybean Fields

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Article Review #5: Steady Increase in Conservation Tillage for Corn and Soybean Fields

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The article explains how conservation tillage is becoming more common in corn and soybean farming. Conservation tillage is a method where farmers disturb the soil less compared to traditional plowing, leaving crop residue on the surface. This helps protect the soil from erosion, improves water retention, and supports healthier soil overall. The article points out that more farmers are adopting this practice over time, which shows a shift toward more sustainable agriculture. It also mentions that conservation tillage can help reduce fuel use and lower carbon emissions because farmers don’t need to run heavy machinery as often. Even though some farmers still rely on traditional methods, the steady increase in conservation tillage suggests that agriculture is slowly adapting to environmental concerns while still maintaining productivity.

I think this is a positive and realistic example of how environmental progress can happen in everyday industries like farming. Instead of completely changing how food is produced, conservation tillage shows that small adjustments can still have a big impact over time. Protecting soil might not seem like a major issue at first, but it’s actually essential for long term food security and environmental health. If soil gets damaged or eroded, it becomes much harder to grow crops in the future. I also think it’s important that this method benefits farmers too, since it can save time and fuel, making it more likely that people will actually adopt it. Overall, this article makes me feel more hopeful because it shows that sustainability doesn’t always require extreme changes.

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Steady Increase in Conservation Tillage for Corn and Soybean Fields | Farms.com

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University of Illinois researchers developed a satellite and machine learning framework to track tillage practices across the Midwest, supporting better soil health monitoring, conservation planning, policy decisions, and long-term agricultural sustainability.

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#7: L.A. Fires Show Limits of America’s Efforts to Cope With Climate Change

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#7: L.A. Fires Show Limits of America’s Efforts to Cope With Climate Change

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This article is about the limits of America’s efforts to reduce climate change. California has the most protections in place for handling wildfires. It is the state that deals with them most frequently, and therefore has a variety of systems for handling them. The CalFire, Californias fire agency has a budget of over 4 billion dollars. Yet these efforts are still not enough. Wildfires are growing worse, and so are their effects. This article seems to suggest that when temperatures inevitably warm as a result of climate change, we will not be equipped to handle it. There are of course, some changes that could be made to increase wildfire readiness, but this may not be enough to handle the new era we are facing.

This article is very scary. To me it shows that no matter how much we try to mitigate the effects of climate change, the only true solution is to adress the problem at it's root. Until we take action to stop climate change, we face a dangerous future. Californias wildfires is evidence of this. California has taken all the proper precautions, done everything they can to protect their people, but it is still not enough.

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#7. Why EVs Alone Won’t Fix Climate Change

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#7. Why EVs Alone Won’t Fix Climate Change

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The use of electric vehicles, while a good way to reduce climate change, will not fully fix it. Latency is a big factor as to why EVs won't fix climate change by themselves. Even if we push for mass use of EVs, it would take decades for fuel-powered vehicles to be gone from the roads. EVs make up a very small percentage of people who own EVs as their personal vehicles. States like California might be stopping the selling of fuel-powered cars but not until 2035. EVs don't get rid of pollution either. Fuel-powered vehicles specifically cause tailpipe emissions and EVs don't. That being said, they can still cause pollution through tires and brakes. This article argues that vehicle density on the roads should be reduced in general through the use of urban communities that allow for walking and biking. Reducing VMT would also give us quieter neighborhoods, less traffic, and shorter commutes.

I find this article very interesting. I like how this article did not sugarcoat that fact that EVs can still be harmful, though not as harmful as fuel-powered vehicles. I also like to hear that Califonia and other states are going to stop selling FPVs as a whole in the near future. I think one thing that needs to happen alongside the building of more urban/walkable cities is making EVs less expensive because right now, EVs like Teslas and Waymos are seen as luxuries. Another issue is that EVs like Teslas can only be managed and serviced by Tesla, which disadvantages many people and prevents them from buying them. I think, though, that if we successfully create more urban and walkable communities, lessen the cost of EVs, and broaden the companies that can manage and service them, then we can possibly move to a future with less VMTs.

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Why EVs Alone Won’t Fix Climate Change - California YIMBY

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What does victory look like for the urban abundance movement? Learn more about the Metropolitan Abundance Project.

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Article #7: Climate adaptation and resilience: The opportunity awaiting South-East Asia

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Article #7: Climate adaptation and resilience: The opportunity awaiting South-East Asia

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The article discusses the impact of climate-related disasters, particularly typhoons Kalmaegi and Fung-Wong, on Southeast Asia, causing billions in damages and disrupting millions of lives. It highlights the region's vulnerability to climate shocks and the need for increased private sector investment in climate adaptation and resilience, especially through water-related solutions. The private sector has a significant opportunity to invest in adaptation technologies, infrastructure, and financing mechanisms that can strengthen climate resilience and unlock a trillion-dollar annual investment opportunity by 2050. The article also mentions various initiatives and events, such as the Southeast Asia Partnership for Adaptation through Water (SEAPAW) and the upcoming "Year of Water" in 2026, that aim to facilitate private sector engagement and collaboration in addressing climate adaptation challenges in the region.

The article's discussion of climate-related disasters in Southeast Asia, especially the catastrophic effects of typhoons like Kalmaegi and Fung-Wong, highlights a more general and pressing reality: climate change is a current, compounding crisis that disproportionately affects vulnerable regions rather than a remote or abstract threat. The most striking aspect is not just the enormous amount of economic harm (billions of dollars) but also the severe social upheaval that millions of people, many of whom already live in unstable circumstances. This supports the notion that climate change serves as a "threat multiplier," escalating already-existing disparities and highlighting flaws in governance, infrastructure, and resource management systems. Due to its low-lying coastal regions, crowded population, and reliance on agriculture, Southeast Asia is particularly vulnerable to harsh weather.

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Anne Christianson and Ying Jie Tan and World Economic Forum

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The climate adaptation and resilience opportunity in Southeast Asia

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Climate adaptation and resilience represent a trillion-dollar investment opportunity for the private sector, with Southeast Asia facing an urgent financing gap.

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Article #7: What does new research tell us about blue carbon?

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Article #7: What does new research tell us about blue carbon?

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Blue carbon is the organic carbon captured and stored by marine ecosystems. It is an extremely important part of our fight against climate change and must be protected to ensure that the ecosystems can function naturally. On the Isle of Man, research was conducted starting in 2022 to understand the potential for marine ecosystems and their role in storing carbon. After 3 years they found that the top 10 cm of coastal habitats around the island stored over 500,000 tons of carbon, the equivalent of the annual emissions of 390,000 cars. The mapped habitats included 50,000 hectares of muddy seabed, 196 hectares of seagrass, and 7.4 hectares of coastal wetlands. Another fact that was noticed was that carbon storage is lower in the areas with high fishing intensity, showing how human disturbances affect the release of carbon. Efforts are being made to protect and manage these habitats, with plans to create a marine nature reserve off Bulgham Bay in Maughould. This would be vital in stopping further development and destruction of habitats through bottom trawling, trampling and anchoring. The top habitats to protect are saltmarsh and eelgrass areas, protected under “areas of special scientific interest”. The results from the Manx Blue Carbon Project show not only how important oceans are for wildlife, but also for fighting climate change.

This article is interesting because it highlights the importance of natural carbon stores on Earth. Humans continue to produce more greenhouse gases everyday, only increasing the effects of climate change. While we can’t rely solely on carbon sinks to save us, we can’t afford to destroy them either. Thinking beyond the carbon sequestration benefits, many carbon sinks are vital habitats and help to maintain the healthy level of biodiversity needed. Protecting the natural sinks, such as the Isle of Man’s marine habitats, is vital. The place to start is with research, allowing us to identify the exact potential for carbon storage and evaluate monitoring and restoration options. As the project lead Rowan Henthorn said this research gives tools to make “informed, long-term decisions”, essential when approaching policy makers.

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What does new research tell us about IOM blue carbon habitats?

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Researchers find that the Isle of Man’s blue carbon habitats absorb 500,000 tonnes of carbon.

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The article explains new scientific research about Doggerland, a piece of land that once connected Britain to Europe but is now underwater in the North Sea. Scientists from the University of Warwick discovered that this area had forests much earlier than people originally thought, over 16,000 years ago. They used sedimentary ancient DNA to find evidence of trees like oak, elm, and hazel, along with a surprising species that was believed to have disappeared hundreds of thousands of years ago. The study also suggests that Doggerland stayed above water longer than expected, even surviving major flooding events like the Storegga tsunami. Because of its environment, Doggerland may have supported animals and early human populations before forests spread across Britain. Overall, the article shows how new technology is helping scientists better understand ancient ecosystems and how humans may have lived in them.

I think this article is really interesting because it changes how we understand early human life and the environment during the Ice Age. It is surprising that a place now completely underwater in the North Sea used to be full of forests and possibly people. This makes me think about how much of Earth’s history is still hidden and waiting to be discovered. The idea that Doggerland was more than just a land bridge, but actually a thriving habitat, makes the past feel more complex and alive. I also think it is cool how scientists used DNA from sediments to figure this out, showing how advanced technology can reveal things we could not know before. However, I wonder how much more evidence we still need to fully understand what life there was like. Overall, this research makes me more curious about ancient environments and how they shaped human history.

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A “lost world” beneath the North Sea was once full of forests

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Long before rising seas swallowed Doggerland beneath the North Sea, this lost landscape may have been a surprisingly lush and life-friendly haven. New DNA evidence reveals that forests of oak, elm, and hazel were already thriving there more than 16,000 years ago—thousands of years earlier than scientists thought possible. Even more astonishing, researchers detected traces of a tree species believed to have vanished from the region hundreds of thousands of years ago.

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Article #7: Britain Requires Solar Panels and Heat Pumps in All New Home

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Article #7: Britain Requires Solar Panels and Heat Pumps in All New Home

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The article explains that the UK government is introducing new rules requiring most newly built homes to include solar panels, heat pumps, and improved insulation in response to an energy crisis linked to global conflict. These measures are designed to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels, which have become more expensive and less secure. By shifting toward renewable energy and more energy-efficient housing, the policy aims to lower greenhouse gas emissions and support climate change mitigation. Overall, it shows how economic and political pressures can accelerate the transition to cleaner energy systems while also improving long-term energy security.

This article is very optimistic, as it details a country taking real steps toward maintaining lower carbon emissions. If other countries follow the UK by legally enforcing clean energy, the difference in global temperature and air quality will become significant. It is a good thing that the environmental impacts of geopolitical events are being considered and addressed by powerful individuals. I believe that the only way to enforce real change is through policy, and making the early conversion to sustainable energy usage will benefit atmospheric conditions in the long run.

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Britain responds to Iran war energy shock by requiring solar panels and heat pumps in all new homes

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The move comes as part of Britain’s response to the Iran war, with the conflict triggering the largest supply disruption in the history of the oil market.

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Article #7: Ensuring Soil Carbon Farming Climate Mitigation Claims Represent Reality 

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Article #7: Ensuring Soil Carbon Farming Climate Mitigation Claims Represent Reality 

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This article talks about soil carbon sequestration as a climate change mitigation strategy, where sustainable farming practices such as reduced tillage, cover cropping, and improved land management are used to store carbon in soils and plants instead of releasing it into the atmosphere. It emphasizes that this approach has significant potential, with estimates suggesting it could capture up to 5 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, which is about 10% of global annual emissions. However, the article also emphasizes that despite this potential, soil carbon farming is not widely used in carbon markets because there is limited reliable data proving its effectiveness. A major issue is the lack of strong Measurement, Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification systems, which makes it difficult to confirm how much carbon is actually being stored and whether these gains are permanent.

In my opinion, I think this strategy to reduce carbon emissions is a great idea because, especially in the modern world, the rising level of carbon dioxide is a major issue contributing to climate change. Finding practical and sustainable solutions like soil carbon sequestration is important because it directly targets emissions while also improving agricultural practices. Additionally, the issue raised in the article is very relevant, but I believe it can be addressed effectively. With the rapid development of modern technology in recent years, challenges such as weak measurement, monitoring, and verification systems could potentially be improved. It is very important that this issue is addressed because, given its benefits, it could significantly help in solving issues related to carbon emissions and reduce climate change that is caused by human activity.

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Ensuring Soil Carbon Farming Climate Mitigation Claims Represent Reality

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A recently released report from the Yale Applied Science Synthesis Program and the Environmental Defense Fund offers practical ways to generate more high-quality evidence to increase confidence that the effects of soil carbon farming represent real carbon accrual or avoided greenhouse gas emissions.

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Article #7: HKU Hosts Hong Kong Climate Week 2026 Opens with Focus on
“From Mitigation to Adaptation”

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Article #7: HKU Hosts Hong Kong Climate Week 2026 Opens with Focus on
“From Mitigation to Adaptation”

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Hong Kong Climate Week 2026, hosted by the University of Hong Kong’s Institute for Climate and Carbon Neutrality, opened under the theme “From Mitigation to Adaptation - Bridging Global Consensus and Local Implementation.” The event focused on using Hong Kong’s strengths in finance and innovation to support the transition to net-zero while developing practical solutions for climate challenges. Leaders emphasized the importance of urgent action, collaboration, and the role of research and education in preparing the next generation to address environmental issues. Over the week, participants discussed how global climate commitments can be turned into meaningful changes in communities and industries. The conversations highlighted both the challenges we face and the opportunities to drive progress through new technologies and partnerships.

I found this article very inspiring and hopeful because it shows how Hong Kong is taking steps to address climate change by connecting global knowledge with local action. I think it is promising that the event focuses on technologies like AI and on green finance, which can make solutions more effective and accessible. I hope the discussions and partnerships formed during the week lead to real projects that reduce emissions and support adaptation. Even though some progress has been made, there is still much work to do, and events like this can inspire governments, scientists, and businesses to take stronger action toward a sustainable future.

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HKU Hosts Hong Kong Climate Week 2026 Opens with Focus on “From Mitigation to Adaptation” - Press Releases - Media - HKU

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Mr Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government,  delivers Opening Remarks for HKCW From left to right: Prof Bojie Fu, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences; Mr Luke Wu, Board…

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Article 7- “India Raises Climate Ambition: 47% Emissions Cut, 60% Clean Energy By 2035”

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Article 7- “India Raises Climate Ambition: 47% Emissions Cut, 60% Clean Energy By 2035”

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The article explains India’s updated climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, highlighting its plan to reduce emissions intensity by 47% and increase non-fossil fuel energy capacity to 60% by 2035. It emphasizes that these goals are based on real progress, as India has already made significant improvements in reducing emissions and expanding clean energy. The report presents India as balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth and energy needs, especially for a large and developing population. It also places the announcement in a global context, noting that some countries are slowing their climate efforts, which makes India’s actions more important. Expert opinions included in the article are mixed, some praise the realistic and achievable targets, while others believe they are not ambitious enough given India’s current pace of progress. Overall, the article provides a balanced view of India’s climate strategy, combining facts, expert insight, and global context.

India’s updated climate goals show steady progress, but they may be too cautious at a time when stronger action is needed. Since India has already exceeded some earlier targets, aiming for only 60% clean energy by 2035 could limit its potential to lead globally in renewable energy. However, it is understandable that India must consider energy security and economic development while making these commitments. A possible solution would be for India to set flexible targets that can be increased over time as technology improves and costs decrease. The government could also invest more in energy storage, electric infrastructure, and reducing dependence on coal. Additionally, stronger international support through funding and technology sharing would help India move faster. By combining realistic planning with more ambitious long-term goals, India can continue to grow economically while playing a major role in addressing climate change.

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The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved India's updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for the 2031-2035 period under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, committing to deeper emissions cuts and a stronger shift toward clean energy.

The revised targets, part of India's obligations under the Paris Agreement, include reducing the emissions intensity of GDP by 47% from 2005 levels and increasing non-fossil fuel-based power capacity to 60% by 2035. The announcement followed a Cabinet briefing and marks India's third NDC submission.

"At a time when conflict and energy security concerns are pulling countries away from climate commitments, India's new NDCs send an important signal. A targeted 60% share of non-fossil electricity capacity in 2035 suggests that while India has raised its ambition to decarbonise thepower sector, it is also doubling down on energy security and affordability for hundreds of millions ofits citizens," said Dr Arunabha Ghosh, CEO, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW).

Sharper Climate Commitments

Cut emissions intensity of GDP by 47% by 2035 (from 2005 levels)

Achieve 60% of installed power capacity from non-fossil sources

Create a carbon sink of 3.5-4 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through forests and tree cover

Under the updated framework, India has pledged to:

Officials described the targets as a significant enhancement over previous commitments, citing India's "strong track record" of early achievement.
Grounded in Past Performance
Government data shows that between 2005 and 2020, India reduced emissions intensity by 36%, crossed 52% non-fossil fuel capacity in the power mix, and created a 2.3 billion-tonne carbon sink.

The Cabinet emphasized that the new goals are "not aspirational" but based on demonstrated progress. India had met its earlier 2015 NDC targets-33-35% emissions intensity reduction and 40% non-fossil capacity-well ahead of schedule.

The Press Information Bureau said the updated NDC aligns with the principles of equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR-RC), while supporting the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Global Context and Strategic Significance

The announcement comes amid disruptions in global supply chains and energy markets due to ongoing conflict in West Asia, underscoring the risks of fossil fuel dependence.

Experts say India's approach reflects a balance between climate ambition and energy security. While domestic projections by the Central Electricity Authority suggest non-fossil capacity could reach nearly 70% by 2035-36, the formal NDC target remains at 60%, indicating a cautious but credible international commitment.
Policy Backbone and Implementation
With India holding the chair of BRICS this year, the updated NDC is also seen as a signal of leadership from the Global South on climate action, particularly at a time when some developed nations are perceived to be slowing their climate efforts.

The targets will be driven by ongoing initiatives such as renewable energy expansion, green hydrogen, battery storage, and cleaner industrial processes. Programs under the National Action Plan on Climate Change, along with international collaborations like the International Solar Alliance, will support implementation.
Focus on Adaptation and Inclusion
The government also highlighted investments in green energy corridors, carbon capture technologies, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

Beyond mitigation, the updated NDC places strong emphasis on adaptation measures, including coastal protection, glacier monitoring, heat action plans, and disaster resilience.
Mixed Expert Views
Community participation will be encouraged through the "Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)" initiative, aimed at promoting sustainable practices at the individual level.

Climate experts broadly welcomed the enhanced targets but expressed varying degrees of optimism. Some praised India's commitment to multilateralism and leadership, while others argued that the targets-especially the 60% clean power goal-may underestimate the country's actual potential given current progress.

Vibhuti Garg, Director South Asia, Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) says "With non-fossil fuel capacity already crossing ~52% by 2025-26, atarget of 60% by 2035 does not adequately reflect either the pace of progress or the scale of opportunity ahead.At a time when India remains vulnerable to global supply and price shocks-particularly in imported fossil fuels-the case for accelerating electrification from clean energy sources across sectors isstronger than ever. Industrial electrification, in particular, offers a dual benefit: reducing import dependence while enhancing long-term economic resilience".
Labanya Jena, Director, Climate and Sustainability Initiative:

"A 47% reduction in emission intensity by 2035, alongside achieving 60% non-fossil capacity, signals continuity in ambition while remaining grounded in domestic, developmental and geopolitical realities. The fact that India has already crossed 50% non-fossil capacity underscores the credibility of this trajectory. Equally important is the expansion of carbon sinks, which reinforces the country's commitment to nature-based solutions", said Aarti Khosla, Director, Climate Trends.

"In the ambition of the new NDCs, the carbon emissions goal is now 47%. This is not very optimistic, at least from the mitigation perspective. Taking into account India's current technical and financial capacities and its reliance on imported technologies, the government is likely being cautious about these commitments. Also, given that the US has backed out and the EU has also gone on a backfoot on climate, the global effort has already been waning. So India also seems to have committed in a cautious manner. India is keen on electrifying its transport and cooking but the source of electrification will remain coal even though we are adding massive clean energy. Coal will remain the dominant source of energy till 2035.

The Cabinet termed the approval a "major milestone" in India's long-term climate strategy, reinforcing its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

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India Raises Climate Ambition: 47% Emissions Cut, 60% Clean Energy By 2035

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Government data shows that between 2005 and 2020, India reduced emissions intensity by 36%, crossed 52% non-fossil fuel capacity in the power mix, and created a 2.3 billion-tonne carbon sink.

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Article 6- “Island nations fight to save cultural heritage from climate change”

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Article 6- “Island nations fight to save cultural heritage from climate change”

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This article clearly explains how climate change is affecting more than just the environment by showing its impact on culture and daily life in places like the Maldives and Palau. It uses strong examples, such as the Nakaiy calendar and the threat to historic sites like the Koagannu Cemetery, to show how traditions are closely tied to nature. The article also includes perspectives from experts and connects these local issues to global efforts like the Paris Agreement, which helps show the larger context. What makes the article effective is that it focuses on real people and communities, making the issue feel more personal and serious. It is well organized and easy to follow, and it highlights a part of climate change that is often ignored, which is the loss of cultural identity and history.

I think the article brings attention to an important issue that many people overlook. Losing cultural traditions and historical sites is just as serious as losing land, because once they are gone, they cannot be replaced. A possible solution is to combine traditional knowledge with modern technology so communities can adapt while still preserving their culture. For example, systems like the Nakaiy calendar could be recorded and studied alongside current climate data to help keep them relevant. It is also important for wealthier countries to provide more financial support to small island nations, since they are the most affected but have the fewest resources. Increasing awareness is another key step, because more attention could lead to stronger global action. Without better support and planning, these cultures may continue to disappear.

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Island nations fight to save cultural heritage from climate change

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The climate crisis is putting human heritage in the firing line. In response, small island states are learning how to adapt

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Article #7: Climate Change Mitigation: Reducing Emissions

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Article #7: Climate Change Mitigation: Reducing Emissions

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This article explains that in order to combat climate change, we need to focus largely on reducing greenhouse gas emissions globally. We also need to strengthen natural systems that absorb carbon, such as forests. The European Union has made a huge effort and large amount of progress in reducing carbon emissions, but the article shows that more countries will need to act as the EU did to make a global difference, since the EU is only responsible for 6% of global emissions. The European Union has cut their emissions by 37% since 1990 simply by switching to more sustainable energy types and making other cuts that do not largely affect lifestyles. This shows that progress is possible, it just requires government dedication. The article also emphasizes that global agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement help tremendously in enforcing sustainable practices.

In my opinion, it is inspiring to hear about the progress the EU has made in sustainability, however, it presents a call to action for other countries. The EU has proven that when world leaders acknowledge and prioritize climate change as a serious issue, it can be combatted efficiently. I think other countries should use the EU as an example and implement similar methods that prioritize environmental health and reductions of emissions to make a serious difference worldwide.

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Climate change mitigation: reducing emissions

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Our climate is changing because of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. Despite notable emission reductions over the last decades, the EU must transform production and consumption systems to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

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Article #7: Climate change mitigation: reducing emissions

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Article #7: Climate change mitigation: reducing emissions

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Climate change mitigation focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions that trap heat in the atmosphere. The European Union has cut emissions by 37% since 1990 through renewable energy use, energy efficiency, and reduced fossil fuel dependence. It aims for a 55% reduction by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. Progress includes an 8% drop in emissions in one year, largely due to less coal use. However, carbon sinks like forests are weakening, absorbing less carbon than before. Methane emissions have decreased but must decline faster. Since the EU produces only 6% of global emissions, international cooperation remains essential.

The European Union’s progress on reducing emissions is impressive, especially achieving such large reductions while maintaining economic activity. However, the weakening of natural carbon sinks is concerning because it shows that technological progress alone is not enough. Protecting forests and ecosystems should be just as important as reducing emissions. I think global cooperation is the most critical factor, since climate change cannot be solved by one region alone. While the EU is setting a strong example, other countries must match this effort. Overall, the plan is realistic, but success will depend on consistent action and stronger worldwide commitment.

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Climate change mitigation: reducing emissions

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Our climate is changing because of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. Despite notable emission reductions over the last decades, the EU must transform production and consumption systems to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

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Article #6: How Climate Change is threatening human rights 

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Article #6: How Climate Change is threatening human rights 

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This article explains that climate change is not just an environmental issue but a serious human rights crisis as well. The article emphasizes that the current global efforts are far from being sufficient to protect people, especially the most vulnerable people. The rising temperatures, even at 1.5 degree celsius, already threaten livelihoods, displace communities, and can cause irreversible damage such as melting glaciers and loss of ecosystems. It is seen that the poor and developing nations, which contribute least to emissions, suffer the most, raising issues of fairness and responsibility. The article also highlights gaps in international law, which struggles to address climate-related harm and displacement. However, recent legal developments, including the guidance from the International Court of Justice, are beginning to link climate change with human rights obligations, helping to address these ongoing challenges.

In my opinion, climate change as a human rights issue is still very underrepresented and not clearly explained to the public. Most of the discussions focus on environmental impacts like temperature rise or pollution, but failed to show how these challenges directly affect people's basic rights, such as access to food, water, and shelter. This lack of awareness makes it harder for people to understand the true urgency of this issue. It also highlights how those who have contributed the least to climate change are often the ones who suffer the most. Additionally, it also allows governments and powerful nations to avoid responsibility. More attention and clearer communication are needed so that people recognize climate change as not just an environmental problem, but also as a global issue of justice and human rights.

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How climate change is threatening human rights

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With rising effects of climate change across the globe, the world has started recognising that climate change is not just an ecological collapse, but also a human rights crisis.

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Article 7: The role of peatlands for climate change mitigation

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Article 7: The role of peatlands for climate change mitigation

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This article discusses the role of peatlands in climate change mitigation, focusing on a study conducted by scientists at the University of Latvia. Peatlands are important for biodiversity and water regulation, but they are threatened ecosystems in Europe. The LIFE PeatCarbon project, which was created by scientists at the University of Latvia, focuses on improving the hydrology and vegetation diversity of peatlands in both Latvia and Finland, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions, prevents further peatland degradation, and uses remote sensing to monitor the sites. Peatlands are vital for climate change mitigation as they are carbon sinks; they store about 30% of the world's soil carbon while covering only about 3% of the Earth's surface. Restoring and preserving peatlands significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, as peatlands sequester carbon instead of CO2, accumulating it as peat over thousands of years. Peatlands in the Baltic Sea region have been degraded by human activity over the years, causing them to transition from carbon sinks to sources of greenhouse gases. The project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 37,117 tons of CO2 per year in Latvia and 3,500 tons in Finland, turning peatlands back into carbon sinks.

This article was very interesting. We learned about peatlands last year in this class, and reading the article helped me apply my knowledge of carbon sinks to the issue of climate change, which was very satisfying for me. Carbon sinks such as peatlands are very important in climate change mitigation, as they absorb and store more CO2 from the atmosphere than they release. Peatlands are also very important for maintaining biodiversity in wetland ecosystems and help to reduce flooding. It was beneficial for me to understand all of the benefits of peatlands through this article to understand why we should conserve them and to see a specific example of another country using a sustainable working method to conserve peatlands, which have been destroyed by human activity in these Balkan countries. I think that we should be inspired by this project in conserving our own peatlands in the US, as they are likely being destroyed here as well, and I think that this is a good way to mitigate climate change, as it is sustainable and does not only benefit the climate but also species.

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Life PeatCarbon Project: The role of peatlands for climate change mitigation

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Dr. Māra Pakalne provides insights into the LIFE PeatCarbon project by exploring the significance of peatlands in mitigating climate change

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Agriculture in Brazil: how land‑use choices affect biodiversity and the global climate

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Agriculture in Brazil: how land‑use choices affect biodiversity and the global climate

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Brazil is one of the world’s most prolific agricultural producers and exporters of soybeans, beef, coffee and sugar. This has benefited their citizens economically and improved their prominence globally. The expansion of agriculture has caused natural vegetation to be converted for agricultural use, even in areas that are critical for biodiversity conservation and carbon storage. This study explored how changes in land use in Brazil could affect biodiversity, the climate crisis, and the agricultural economy by 2050. It explored two scenarios, a high growth option and a sustainable option. The results are to be expected, where the high growth option (farming more land) led to higher revenue, but major CO2 emissions and habitat loss. The sustainable option (farming less land) led to lower revenue, but significant carbon capture and biodiversity recovery.

Brazil’s success in agriculture is impressive, and I hadn’t expected it. However, it highlights a difficult trade off between growth in the economy and environmental protection. Expanding farmland to increase revenue may be beneficial in the short term, but the long-term costs (higher CO₂ emissions, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem damage) are too significant to ignore. The study reinforces that a sustainable approach, while potentially reducing profits, offers benefits for the climate and global ecosystems. In my opinion, prioritizing sustainability is the more responsible path, as protecting natural resources ultimately supports both environmental health and long-term economic stability, rather than sacrificing the future for immediate financial gain.

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Agriculture in Brazil: how land-use choices affect biodiversity and the global climate

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The choices made in Brazil, where the COP30 UN climate conference takes place this month, have consequences for the entire planet.

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Article #7 - Trump wants the EPA to stop regulating climate pollution. Blue states have launched a high-stakes legal case against him

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Article #7 - Trump wants the EPA to stop regulating climate pollution. Blue states have launched a high-stakes legal case against him

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The CNN article outlines a legal conflict following efforts by Donald Trump to dismantle the EPA’s “endangerment finding,” a cornerstone of U.S. climate policy since 2009. It explains how this rule rooted in the Supreme Court decision Massachusetts v. EPA allows greenhouse gases to be regulated under the Clean Air Act due to their threat to public health. The reporting effectively highlights the political and legal tension, featuring responses from figures like Gavin Newsom and Letitia James, while also acknowledging the administration’s claim that the issue is politically motivated. The article is balanced in presenting both sides but leans toward emphasizing scientific consensus and urgency, particularly through references to extreme weather. Overall, it is informative, and though it could benefit from a deeper explanation of the legal arguments behind dismantling the rule rather than focusing primarily on political framing.

From a moderately ecocentric perspective, the attempt to remove the endangerment finding is environmentally and scientifically regressive, as it worsens one of the few enforceable mechanisms to limit emissions at a national scale. Climate change operates as a collective-action problem, where federal coordination is crucial, leaving regulation to fragmented state efforts risks inefficiency and inequity. However, a purely ecocentric stance may overlook economic and technological realities, so a hybrid technocentric solution is better. Rather than eliminating the finding, policymakers could modernize it by integrating market-based tools like carbon pricing, stimulating clean energy innovation, and leveraging private-sector advancements in renewables and carbon capture. This approach maintains regulatory authority while aligning with economic growth and technological progress. Ultimately, weakening federal oversight is likely to delay climate mitigation, whereas reforming and strengthening policy frameworks offers a more balanced path including environmental protection with long-term economic stability.

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Trump wants the EPA to stop regulating climate pollution. Blue states have launched a high-stakes legal case against him | CNN

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A coalition of 40 Democratic states, cities and counties sued the Trump administration on Thursday, challenging the recent termination of a longstanding policy allowing the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate climate pollution.

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Article #7: Heat pumps for all new homes and plug-in solar in green tech drive

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Article #7: Heat pumps for all new homes and plug-in solar in green tech drive

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Developers in England will now be required to install solar panels and heat pumps in all new homes. This is a part of updated planning requirements published by the government. It also said plug-in panels that homeowners can self-install on balconies would be available in supermarkets in the coming months. These small versions of the green tech are already deployed across Europe but are not currently sold in the UK due to safety regulations. This would drastically decrease the fossil fuels in the environment, and lower the effects of climate change. "It's going to give clarity to the UK market, installers, builders, manufacturers, that there's a significant market that's there," said Garry Felgate, CEO of MCS Foundation, which certifies installers of low carbon heating systems. These heat pumps and solar panels will add an additional 10,000 pounds onto the cost of the home for developers, but over time it will bring down the cost of energy bills for customers. Heating in homes was previously run by oil, but not all of the homes are required to have climate friendly systems, which consist of wood burners and heat pumps. These heat pumps and solar panels have been successful in other countries in Europe, because they lower the fossil fuel emissions.

From an environmental standpoint, these heat pumps and solar panels being installed in all of the new houses in England will drastically reduce the fossil fuel emissions over time, which will then lead to less climate change in the future. In my opinion, this is a great solution to mitigate climate change. The only down-point is that it is that the installation of these are a bit more expensive than having an oil-powered house. But, I think that if people understand that having these are for the good of our climate, they will want to use them.

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Heat pumps for all new homes and plug-in solar in green tech drive

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Solar panels that can be plugged in at home could be available to buy in supermarkets in the coming months.

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Article #7 Results from the first EPA-permitted ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) field trial

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Article #7 Results from the first EPA-permitted ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) field trial

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The article talks about the first findings from the EPA-permitted field trial of Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE), a marine carbon dioxide removal strategy. OAE works by adding alkaline substances like liquid lime or other minerals into the ocean to raise its pH. This process copys the natural process of weathering rocks, essentially turning the ocean into a "giant sponge" that can soak up more atmospheric CO2​ and store it as stable bicarbonate ions. The 2026 WHOI study in the Gulf of Maine successfully tracked a "patch" of enhanced alkalinity for five days, proving that the dispersal was safe and effective. Most importantly, the researchers found no significant negative impact on the base of the marine food web, such as phytoplankton or bacteria. This study is a major milestone in proving that we can chemically "tune" the ocean to fight climate change without crashing delicate marine ecosystems.

In my opinion, OAE is a fascinating but risky example of a Technocentric approach to mitigation. What I like about this study is that it addresses two problems at once: it removes carbon while also fighting ocean acidification, which is a huge win for coral reefs and shellfish. However, we are essentially pouring chemicals into the ocean to fix a problem we caused on land. This feels like a "Band-Aid" solution that might encourage people to keep burning fossil fuels because they think the ocean will just "clean it up. I believe we should be wary of any "quick fix" that treats the ocean as a laboratory rather than a ecosystem.

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Link to photos, captions, and credits is here
Woods Hole, Mass. and Glasgow, UK (February 25, 2026, 3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET) - The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) today announced preliminary findings from the first U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-permitted ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) field trial, which was conducted in federal waters in the Gulf of Maine in August 2025. The trial, part of the. The findings from the LOC-NESS (Locking Ocean Carbon in the Northeast Shelf and Slope) project were shared at a press briefing at the biennial Ocean Sciences Meeting (OSM), the premier international conference of marine scientists, students, and professionals, currently underway in Glasgow, Scotland.

Ocean alkalinity enhancement is a marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) approach identified by leading scientific bodies, including the U.S. National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), as a high-potential strategy for durable atmospheric carbon dioxide removal. OAE works by enhancing the ocean's natural capacity to absorb carbon dioxide while simultaneously avoiding extra ocean acidification. This research, which has earned significant, independent support from the scientific community, is funded by several philanthropic and federal sources and advances critical goals laid out in the National Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Strategy released by the U.S. government in 2024.

In August 2025, the LOC-NESS team conducted an engineered, six-hour dispersal in the Wilkinson Basin area of the Gulf of Maine. Highly purified sodium hydroxide, commonly used to adjust the pH of drinking water, was introduced into the surface waters of the Wilkinson Basin area of the Gulf of Maine along with a red tracer dye known as Rhodamine Water Tracer (RWT). WHOI scientists in a fully equipped research vessel followed behind the release vessel to carefully monitor environmental conditions and then remained on-site to follow the patch of alkalinity for four days, tracking the physical, chemical, and biological conditions of the ocean to assess OAE's potential for safely removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In addition, scientists deployed four self-propelled autonomous underwater vehicles and free-swimming gliders to measure key water properties before, during, and after release and monitored the evolution of the alkalinity patch by satellite. Complementary observations included CTD profiles, water sampling, plankton net tows, and satellite imagery. Release of the alkalinity was also observed by WHOI engineers, chemical industry experts, federal regulators, and a commercial fisher.

Speaker summaries from the press briefing

Adam Subhas, LOC-NESS Principal Investigator, WHOI

Subhas is the LOC-NESS principal investigator (PI) and project lead. He emphasized that LOC-NESS was created in response to international scientific consensus that carefully designed field trials are essential to validate the effectiveness and environmental impacts of marine carbon dioxide removal approaches, and added that mCDR does not replace the need for reduced carbon emissions.

Preliminary findings from the LOC-NESS field trials confirm:

It represented a successful and controlled dispersal of alkalinity and tracer.

Effective tracking of the alkaline patch for approximately five days (dispersal day plus subsequent monitoring) is possible.

There is a strong correlation between modeled and observed dispersal patterns.

Seawater pH and tracer levels returned to baseline within the expected timeframes.

The experiment successfully and safely produced conditions that allowed the surface ocean to take up carbon from the atmosphere. A portion of the resulting CO₂ uptake can be quantified by combining pH and pCO₂ measurements with data from the rhodamine tracer.

Tracking an alkalinity patch in the ocean with a water tracer dye is a highly effective monitoring approach at the research stage.

These preliminary and subsequent results will translate to substantive recommendations for MRV (measurement, reporting, verification), a key goal of the field trials. Research by the LOC-NESS team will continue refining the impacts and compiling quantitative results into an upcoming peer-reviewed publication.

"LOC-NESS was designed to inform future science, regulation, and policy surrounding marine carbon dioxide removal. These early results demonstrate that small-scale OAE deployments can be engineered, tracked, and monitored with high precision," said Subhas. "We are confident that the data collected and our analysis will advance scientific knowledge of OAE's carbon uptake potential and environmental impacts. We need independent, transparent research to determine which solutions might work."

David "Roo" Nicholson, LOC-NESS Co-Principal Investigator, WHOI

Nicholson led the deployment and use of autonomous gliders, and a long-range AUV to collect additional data before, during, and after the field trials. These data were integrated with shipboard, remote sensing, and drifter data to realize a more comprehensive view of the experiment. Real-time dashboards accessible to shipboard and shore-based teams enabled precise real-time tracking of the alkalinity-enhanced water. This open-source, cloud-based data integration system is publicly available and adaptable for future research. Technology included:

Autonomous gliders

Drifters

Satellite imagery

Modeled particle tracks

A long-range AUV

Shipboard sensors

"We successfully tracked the LOC-NESS OAE patch across five days with a mixed fleet of in-water assets," said Nicholson, "and our results provide a roadmap for designing and implementing observing systems for larger-scale OAE additions. Approaches that integrate in situ observations, remote sensing, and numerical modeling are essential for future monitoring and verification of marine carbon removal."

Rachel Davitt, PhD Student, Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences, Rutgers University

Davitt helped to lead the biological and ecological impact assessment on LOC-NESS alongside other WHOI and Rutgers scientists. Davitt collected both discrete and underway data to measure impacts to the microbial community, combining with data on zooplankton and fish/lobster larvae to give a holistic overview of the effect of the deployment on the biological system. Davitt presented these data, which included impacts to the microbial community (bacteria and phytoplankton) and impacts to zooplankton, fish larvae, and lobster larvae. Key findings include:

Biological impacts in the laboratory appear concentration- and exposure-dependent, and as hypothesized, the field trial resulted in no measurable impact to ocean life.

When comparing bacteria concentrations, phytoplankton cell concentrations, amount of dying cells, photosynthetic health, and chlorophyll-a concentrations in and out of the alkalinity patch over the study period, no significant differences were found. Additionally, there were no significant differences in zooplankton abundance, fish larvae abundance, and lobster larvae abundance in and out of the alkalinity patch.

Although we did not measure direct impacts to higher trophic levels, and impacts to fisheries are still uncertain and will need modeling to resolve clear results, the base of the marine food web that higher trophic levels rely on was not significantly impacted from the data we collected.

Therefore, initial assessments of research data indicate that there were no significant biological impacts due to the alkalinity addition, largely in keeping with laboratory experiments conducted before the field trial.

"Based on the biological and ecological impact data that we have collected and analyzed so far, there was no significant impact of the LOC-NESS field trial on the biological community using the metrics we measured," said Davitt. "Further studies should continue to explore concentration and exposure-dependent effects of alkalinity on biological systems, especially in complicated ecosystems such as the Gulf of Maine, as well as working to improve modeling abilities to assess potential impacts on fisheries."

Kristin Kleisner, Lead Senior Scientist, Associate Vice President for Ocean Science, Environmental Defense Fund

LOC-NESS team members organized or participated in more than 50 community engagement and outreach activities throughout the research, design and public review process. Kleisner summarized the efforts conducted with fishing communities, tribal representatives, industry stakeholders, and the public. Key reflections include:

Repeated engagement showed project transparency and willingness for collaboration with stakeholders.

Stakeholder feedback helped to influence research questions, permitting requirements and communications.

Engagement can help achieve multiple goals, ranging from public education to dispelling misinformation to hearing and addressing community concerns.

Challenges remain in defining responsibility for engagement across various project phases, but the LOC-NESS team have shown that, especially in early stages of research and testing, engagement early and often is key to building trust.

"Robust two-way engagement can't be an afterthought-it's critical for giving communities and rights holders a platform to voice concerns, gain knowledge and make informed decisions based on that information," said Kleisner. "The LOC-NESS team has greatly advanced understanding about what meaningful engagement entails for mCDR and how to build legitimacy and trust in responsible research."

Background leading up to the August 2025 field trials:

In April 2025, the EPA approved the LOC-NESS field research proposal following a rigorous, year-long review that included two public comment periods totaling 75 days and garnered more than 250 comments. The research earned significant, independent support from the scientific community.

EPA consultations with NOAA Fisheries and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found minimal potential environmental impact for the scale and nature of the proposed trial. The EPA determined that the project "demonstrates scientific rigor" and is "not expected to significantly affect human health, the marine environment or other uses of the ocean."

This non-profit research builds on years of laboratory experiments, computer modeling, and theoretical studies about the safety and effectiveness of OAE, and it comes as commercial ventures related to OAE are progressing.

Prior to the field trial, a series of lab experiments were conducted with the copepod Calanus finmarchicus, a primary food for North Atlantic right whales and commercially important fish, with preliminary results showing no impact of elevated pH on this key food web species in the region.

The LOC-NESS team performed a simulated alkalinity deployment at a 10-million-liter, open-air federal testing facility in New Jersey, which helped refine the engineering and methodological design of the Gulf of Maine experiment.

LOC-NESS team members organized or participated in more than 50 community engagement and outreach activities throughout the research design and public review process.

The LOC-NESS project is funded by the Carbon to Sea Initiative and ICONIQ Ocean Co-Lab, with additional monitoring support from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). LOC-NESS is an independent scientific research effort with no commercial stake in mCDR development.

On-site media contact:
Suzanne Pelisson, Director, Public Relations

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
SPelisson@WHOI.edu

973-801-6223
### About Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is a private, non-profit organization on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, dedicated to marine research, engineering, and higher education. Established in 1930, its primary mission is to understand the ocean and its interaction with the Earth as a whole, and to communicate an understanding of the ocean's role in the changing global environment. WHOI's pioneering discoveries stem from an ideal combination of science and engineering-one that has made it one of the most trusted and technically advanced leaders in basic and applied ocean research and exploration anywhere. WHOI is known for its multidisciplinary approach, superior ship operations, and unparalleled deep-sea robotics capabilities. We play a leading role in ocean observation and operate the most extensive suite of data-gathering platforms in the world. Top scientists, engineers, and students collaborate on more than 800 concurrent projects worldwide-both above and below the waves-pushing the boundaries of knowledge and possibility. For more information, please visit www.whoi.edu.

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Results from the ocean alkalinity enhancement field trial

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LOC-NESS project team shares findings at annual Ocean Sciences Meeting

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Why We Need Both Climate Adaptation and Mitigation 

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Article #7 - All or Nothing: Why We Need Both Climate Adaptation and Mitigation 

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Article #7 - All or Nothing: Why We Need Both Climate Adaptation and Mitigation 

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The article discusses how climate change is worsening due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels, which have increased greenhouse gas emissions and raised global temperatures. To tackle this issue, the world needs two key strategies: mitigation and adaptation. Mitigation aims to lessen the causes of climate change, such as transitioning to renewable energy, conserving forests, and reducing emissions. Adaptation, on the other hand, is about adjusting to the effects already occurring, such as constructing flood barriers or preparing for severe weather. The article emphasizes that both strategies are equally crucial and rely on one another. Mitigation helps prevent future harm, while adaptation enables us to cope with current challenges. Overall, it states that we cannot pick just one approach; we need both strategies working together to effectively combat climate change and safeguard the planet.

I think this article clearly highlights the necessity of employing both mitigation and adaptation to tackle climate change. It successfully connects sustainability with human effects on the environment. Real-world examples illustrate the urgency of the problem, though additional data could strengthen the argument. Overall, it is a well-rounded and informative piece.

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Why We Need Both Climate Adaptation and Mitigation | Earth.Org

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Climate adaptation and climate mitigation form the foundation of global response to the climate emergency.

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Article #7: 'The start of the healing process': the vital work to restore Britain's peatlands

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Article #7: 'The start of the healing process': the vital work to restore Britain's peatlands

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According to The Guardian, peatlands, or peat bogs, are very important ecosystems, not just because they are carbon stores, but because they are vibrant habitats for living organisms, they provide important natural capital, and since peat accumulates over time, they act as repositories of "9,000 years of natural archaeology." However, they are under serious threat around the world because of mining, industrial development, agriculture, and climate change. To help mitigate the impacts of these activities on the peatlands, the South West Peatland Partnership has begun a large restoration project that aims to restore "more than 2,600 hectares"--a long and arduous process, but one that has made observable progress. So far, 1,700 of the 2,600 hectares have been restored, and though the process is long and costly at £13 million over four years, benefits are already becoming apparent. For instance, more species of dragonflies are returning to the peatlands. This is very important, as dragonflies are primary consumers and thus constitute the bedrock of the ecosystem.

I always thought wetlands were overlooked as ecosystems, shoved aside in favor of more majestic ones like rainforests, when they in fact do a tremendous amount of work to keep Earth's atmosphere healthy, in addition to being important habitats for all kinds of animals, including humans in some parts of the world. Whenever my family travels through the peatland swamps of New Jersey, especially the part on the highway adjacent to the port and to Newark, I always find it very sad how much waste and runoff goes into them. It does make me feel much better to know that we are finally grasping just how crucial these ecosystems are, though. I am left wondering, however, how impactful the small-scale harvesting of peat for fuel is on the overall health of peatlands, as described early in the article.

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'The start of the healing process': the vital work to restore Britain's peatlands

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A project on Dartmoor to reprofile the landscape aims to return the springy bog - and carbon store - to its natural condition

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Article #7: U.S. clean energy investments: 2025 Quarter 3 analysis

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Article #7: U.S. clean energy investments: 2025 Quarter 3 analysis

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This article talks about how the Q3 20025 analysis of clean energy investments made by the U.S reflects ways federal policies are reshaping the impact of laws like the Inflation Reduction Act. This law helped with private investments, taxes, and funding. New policies like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act have ended many of these incentives, many of which include solar and electric vehicles. Simotaneously the government cut funding, which created uncertainty for companies. In the report 35$ billion was invested, and around $4 billion worth of projects were canceled. Ultimately, the quarter report shows that while companies are still investing, it is starting to show because there is more uncertainty.

I enjoyed this article since this situation shows how important stable government support is for clean energy consumption. Companies may feel unsteady when investing due to the changing policies. Technologies like hydrogen and electric vehicles are all clean energy sources and need long-term support from investors to grow. The government needs to be more careful when adjusting policies so they can sustain support. In my opinion, the U.S. should be more consistent with its incentives so businesses can confidently invest, ultimately helping the U.S reach its goals for reducing emissions and the utilization of clean energy.

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U.S. clean energy investments: 2025 Quarter 3 analysis

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To deploy more innovative energy technologies for U.S. energy security, resilience, and growth, it is crucial to understand how shifts in federal policy and executive actions impact private investment.

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Article #7: Power of ecosystems in climate mitigation

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Article #7: Power of ecosystems in climate mitigation

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The University of Pennsylvania looked into nature based solutions that support climate change mitigation, and how to remove carbon from natural habitats effectively. Nature based solutions are actions that reduce and remove harmful greenhouse gas emissions and protect, manage, and restore ecosystems to eliminate climate change. One example is forestation which helps damaged forests recover or grow new trees on land that was not originally a forest. This process helps return forest structure, ecological processes, and biodiversity to a more natural state. Another example is ecosystem restoration which helps ecosystems that have been damaged or destroyed, and conserve the ones that are currently intact. This could take place in urban areas, mountains, freshwaters, forests, grasslands, etc.

These processes deserve attention because by 2030, the restoration of 350 million hectares of degraded land and water ecosystems could remove 13 to 26 gigatons of greenhouse gasses from earth's atmosphere. These nature based solutions make it easier for ecosystems to capture C)2 from the air, and remove it from the atmosphere. Natural carbon sinks such as forests, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems can absorb almost one half of the excess CO2 that human activities produce. Overall, Nature based solutions are one of the best options since they can conserve and expand ecosystems to promote healthier wildlife habitats and protect biodiversity at the same time. NBS can be started small in communities or areas, however can also turn into a large-scale practice with the help from governments and policies being implemented.

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Nature-based solutions: harnessing the power of ecosystems in climate change mitigation | Penn LPS Online

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Climate change poses a critical threat to nature, wildlife, and people around the world. Human activities such as deforestation, livestock farming, and the burning of fossil fuels have contributed to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions while limiting the ability of ecosystems to sequester carbon from the atmosphere. Nature-based solutions, on the other hand, can play a vital role in storing and removing carbon, protecting natural habitats, and enhancing community resilience in the face of the many impacts of climate change.

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Article #7: Combining Modeling and Communication Strategies in Order to Mitigate Climate Change

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Article #7: Combining Modeling and Communication Strategies in Order to Mitigate Climate Change

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In order to help facilitate regions around the world that are having issues in implementing adaptation measures and climate-related goals. A communication toolset combined with climate mitigation is required. This approach was developed within the “KNOWING” project, which was developed for three different climate contexts. This approach can provide guidance to regions on achieving climate neutrality while adapting to climate change. An advantage of using communication skills regarding climate change is that they can help overcome misinformation and ensure the implementation of measures is sustainable. Regarding the interconnection between climate mitigation and adaptation measures, a systems model is used to map the approach. The first step of the approach is to establish a qualitative framework to model the interconnected effects of measures within regional strategies. The second step is to use specific models to quantify the impacts, for example, an urban climate model that assesses the cooling effects of greening and desealing. The final step is to use the outputs of these models in order to set up a quantified systems model. By using this systems model to provide specific targets for regions, in order to achieve climate mitigation and adaptation goals. An advantage of this approach is that it can explain climate change while offering the potential for the use of models.

While reading the article, I was a little confused about the language. The strategies and approach differ from other articles I have reviewed, which provide direct approaches such as government regulation and monitoring. However, this article presents holistic strategies for climate mitigation. From this article, I developed a greater appreciation for systems models. I reflected on the past two years regarding the creation of systems models. But I never thought about using systems models to provide solutions to climate change. I always viewed systems models for graphing environmental processes, like the atmosphere or the carbon cycle. The article helped me gain a better understanding of systems models and may help me on the IB exam. What I’m wondering is whether we could use this approach in different climate contexts, such as the United States. Would different governments be open to following this approach and implementing its mitigation measures? How is qualitative data collected to follow the steps of this new approach, and why not quantitative data?

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Combining modelling and communication strategies for integrated climate mitigation

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Marianne Bügelmayer-Blaschek and Alexandra Millonig explore how to combine modelling and communication strategies for a sustainable future

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Article #6: Are Species Able to Evolve Fast Enough to Handle Climate Change?

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Article #6: Are Species Able to Evolve Fast Enough to Handle Climate Change?

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Species that were facing population declines seem to have recovered through rapid evolution. Evolution has saved many species from extinction in the past, as Earth’s climate has varied widely from what it is now. The issue around plants and animals having to adapt, is around time. Compared to now, “the fastest climate change we know”, occurred 56 million years ago, when the temperature rose from 5 degrees Celsius to 8 degrees Celsius. However, it is possible that organisms can adapt if their generation times are short. One example of species adaptation to climate change is the scarlet monkeyflower. The plant survived the severe drought that hit California between 2012 and 2015. These plants were hit hard by the drought, as they thrive on water, some populations have died out. But other populations of the flower had survived by evolving. This is called “evolutionary rescue”. There are examples of evoluntonry rescue, mostly seen in labs. However, the scarlet monkeyflower is one of the first examples of this to occur in the wild. Climate change can lead to population decline, causing a loss of genetic diversity, which can limit evolution. However, there is hope that current predictions of species decline account for evolution.

As I continue these article reviews, I become more optimistic about the future. What I learned from this article is that species adaptation can occur rapidly. Even when facing natural disasters set forth by climate change. I wonder what specifically caused the scarlet monkeyflower to be able to go through evolutionary rescue. Does it have to do something with it’s genetics? I’m wondering why a certain population of the wildflower was able to adapt to the extreme drought in California, and where this population was located? I’m also wondering more about the studies that identified evolutionary rescue, as seen in labs. The article suggests that evolutionary rescue can occur, further underscoring hope for our future in the face of climate change. The article makes me feel optimistic about the potential I have as a future biologist. Yet it is important to understand that we can’t be blindsighted from these results. We still have to do our part in mitigating our contribution to climate change.

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Can species evolve fast enough to survive as the planet heats up?

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The story of a wildflower that adapted to a severe drought in California raises hopes that evolution will come to the rescue of species hit by climate change, but there are limits

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Article Review #5: Less intensive farming works best for agricultural soil

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Article Review #5: Less intensive farming works best for agricultural soil

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This article is based on a research team led by the Netherlands Institute of Ecology which was researching how to help soil health during agriculture. They found that whether it was organic or conventional farming, there wasn’t much of an influence. They concluded that farmers had to do less, by not ploughing as much. They explained that when ploughing happens it disrupts the soil life. Also, they said there should be, “mixtures of grasses and plants from the bean family, such as clovers, contributes to multifunctional healthy soil”. This is unsurprising as the biodiversity will make the soil more resilient. The researchers are suggesting, “'Productive de-intensification. If it is successful, you will get more functions from a less intensively cultivated soil while retaining the crop yield as much as possible'”.

I think that this article was very hopeful and useful. It identified what is currently wrong with agriculture and posed an excellent solution. I think it relates strongly to what we’ve learned in class especially as it favors bringing in biodiversity and cover cropping. I think more farmers should de-intensify their practices in order to help their soil health. It’s good that the sustainable practice will not lead to a drastic decrease in yield. I also liked that in the article they said, “'You don't necessarily have to have gone through the entire transition to organic farming to still have a positive impact on soil health,'” I think this is a very good sentiment as some may feel uneasy about shifting the practices they already have.

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Less intensive farming works best for agricultural soil

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The less intensively you manage the soil, the better the soil can function. Such as not plowing as often or using more grass-clover mixtures as cover crops. Surprisingly, it applies to both conventional and organic farming.

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Article #6 Air pollution makes it harder for insects to find food and mates

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Article #6 Air pollution makes it harder for insects to find food and mates

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The article is based on research from the University of Melbourne, and highlights a cause of the global decline in insect populations. While we often focus on how pollution affects human lungs, this study reveals that tiny particles from industry and bushfires physically "clog" the antennae of insects like bees, moths, and flies. Since insects rely on these antennae to "smell" their world, the pollution creates a physical barrier that prevents them from detecting vital chemical signals. In experiments, contaminated insects were unable to find food or mates, often choosing directions at random. This sensory "blinding" happens even in remote areas far from the pollution source, as wind carries these particles thousands of kilometers. This suggests that air pollution is not just a health risk but a direct threat to global biodiversity and food security.

In my opinion, this study is an eye opener because it shows that human impact is much more "invisible" than we think. We usually measure biodiversity loss by looking at habitat destruction or hunting, but this research proves we are unintentionally breaking the very "biological Wi-Fi" that ecosystems need to function. If bees can't smell flowers, our entire agricultural system could collapse. I find it alarming that even "safe" levels of pollution for humans are enough to effectively disable an insect's ability to survive. It proves that our environmental standards need to account for all life, not just our own.

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#6. Why People Fail to Notice Climate Change

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#6. Why People Fail to Notice Climate Change

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This article explains how, though the effects of climate change have been very apparent in recent years, it still seems that people have trouble actually notice. The article gives a few reasons as to why this is. For one, people understand the impact of discrete data than they do continuous data. This means that most people won't understand the weight behind graphs that show the way temperature has risen over the years. The article also points out how people's perception of what a "normal temperature" is or what "normal weather conditions" are shaped by only the last 2-8 years of their life and so since climate change impacts the weather and temperature slower than humans because accustomed to things, we often don't notice that things are drastically different from what they were.

I thought this was a very interesting topic. I have always been kind of aware of climate change and its effects and didn't understand when other people seemingly don't notice it. This article explains why that is very well. I also think that since a lot of people were not alive or do not have a good memory of what normal temperatures and weather conditions and so they don't have a way of confidently saying that current temperatures and weather conditions are abnormal. I think that it's interesting that people respond a lot more to discrete graphs than continuous graphs and I wonder if we shift the way we present the effects of climate change we might see an increase in how many people notice it

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People quickly normalize extreme weather. Simple visuals highlighting abrupt change could help climate change break through our mental blind spots.

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This article is about a climate scientist reflecting on his journey to Antarctica. He was with a group studying the fastest melting glaciers in the world, known as the Thwaites. He described Antarctica's beauty, and how it was unlike any experience he had ever had. Antarctica does not have a lot of visual reference points, most of it is the wide expanse of sea and sky. He describes how if Thwaites sheds too much ice, it could allow the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to break loose and slide into the sea. This could threaten coastal communities as sea levels rose.

I really liked how this article described Antarctica's beauty in such detail. It was clear that on his journey, he had come to a realization about the importance of his work. To see the scale of the glaciers was a wake up call for him. This article was very well written, and thus a skilled way to communicate the importance of taking climate action. I think because we are so far away from Antarctica and the glaciers, it's difficult for us to envision how it can affect us. We all need to be more considerate of these issues in our daily lives.

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Article #6: Beyond ‘Endangerment’: Finding a Way Forward for U.S. on Climate

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Article #6: Beyond ‘Endangerment’: Finding a Way Forward for U.S. on Climate

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The EPA’s decision to repeal the greenhouse gas “endangerment finding” could threaten the United States ability to address climate change. The endangerment finding was created under the Clean Air Act after the Massachusetts v. EPA ruling and allowed the government to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. This has proven essential over the years to lower GHG levels coming from cars and power plants. If the repeal remains in place after legal challenges from the Supreme Court, it could slow national climate action. Future administrations would have fewer tools to put limits on emissions. However, climate progress could still continue through other strategies such as expanding renewable energy and modernizing the power grid. The US has already taken steps towards this by improving disaster preparedness and allocating funds towards the bipartisan issue of civilian safety. While this repeal creates challenges, there are still opportunities for the US to pursue policies to reduce emissions and address climate change.

This article shows the political side of climate change and the power held by the US government and its legislation. In my opinion, repealing the endangerment finding would make it much harder for the US to address climate change. The finding had been one of the main tools the government uses to limit GHG emissions and removing it would slow progress on reducing emissions. Even small reductions can contribute to lowering overall greenhouse gas levels and reducing climate impacts. The EPA argues against that saying that US vehicle emissions aren't enough to meaningfully contribute to climate change. Climate change is a global problem, and that means individual countries shouldn’t avoid taking responsibility for their emissions. I think the US should continue pursuing policies that encourage renewable energy, improve energy efficiency, and reduce emissions rather than weakening existing environmental regulations.

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Beyond ‘Endangerment’: Finding a Way Forward for U.S. on Climate

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Environmentalists are challenging the EPA’s repeal of the “endangerment finding,” which empowered it to regulate greenhouse gases. Whether or not the action holds up in court, now is the time to develop climate strategies that can be pursued when the political balance shifts.

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Article #6: Peak interest: Toronto’s snow mountains that refuse to melt are a toxic hazard

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Article #6: Peak interest: Toronto’s snow mountains that refuse to melt are a toxic hazard

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Heavy winter storms in Toronto have created massive “snow mountains” made from plowed snow mixed with road salt, oil, antifreeze, trash, and other pollutants. These piles can reach nearly 100 feet tall and are stored at special dumping sites around the city. While removing snow is necessary for road safety, experts like Donald Jackson warn the melting snow releases large amounts of salt and contaminants into waterways. High chloride levels from road salt can harm fish and aquatic ecosystems and contaminate groundwater used for drinking. Researchers say salt pollution can persist for years, making these snow piles a long-term environmental concern.

I think the situation with Toronto’s snow mountains shows how even necessary solutions can create serious environmental problems. Cities like Toronto have to remove snow from roads and sidewalks to keep people safe, but storing huge piles of contaminated snow creates another risk. As the snow melts, road salt and other pollutants can flow into rivers and groundwater, harming fish and ecosystems. Research from experts such as Donald Jackson shows that chloride from salt can reach dangerous levels in freshwater. This makes me think cities need to find better ways to manage winter storms, such as reducing salt use or improving filtration systems. While safety during storms is important, governments should also consider the long-term environmental impacts. If these pollutants stay in soil and water for years, the damage could continue long after the snow has melted.

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Peak interest: Toronto’s snow mountains that refuse to melt are a toxic hazard

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Reaching up to 100ft, these massive piles contain tonnes of salt that keep roads clear but pose environmental and health risks

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‘A sobering preview’: extreme heat now affects one in three people globally, study finds

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‘A sobering preview’: extreme heat now affects one in three people globally, study finds

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This article"‘A sobering preview’: extreme heat now affects one in three people globally, study finds" by The Guardian focuses on a recent study indicating that the rising global temperatures are increasing the risks of everyday activites. One third of the world's population lives in areas where extreme heat is an ongoing issue in their everyday lives, restricting their ability to do normal physical activities outside. In the aritcle it includes research on how himans tolerate heat and highlights that older adults are especially vulnerable because there bodies regulate temperatures less effectively. Along with this, people over 65 experience around 900 hours per year where outdoor activity can be dangerous to their health. Studies show this number has nearly doubled since 1950. Countries like South Asia, Southwest Asia, and Africa expeirience the worse of these effects from global warmings heating of the planet. Overall, the article emphasizes global inequality from the activities we do causing global warming.

In my opinion, this article shows a strong concern towards climate change and the ethical and health aspects of it. It stresses how it affects daily life around the world and how it's unfair that many regions experiencing this effect and heat are countries that contributed the least to greenhouse gas emissions. The research shown is useful to stress since it makes the issue more tangible by connecting the rising temps to everyday activites like walking. This conceptualizes the consequences beyond just a statistic. Overall, this article is very persuasive since it connects research to a real human experience, emphasizing the need for human action.

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‘A sobering preview’: extreme heat now affects one in three people globally, study finds

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Rising temperatures making it hard even for young, healthy people to safely do normal physical tasks in many regions

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Article #6: Arctic is again the hottest it's been in 125 years, with record-low sea ice, NOAA report says

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Article #6: Arctic is again the hottest it's been in 125 years, with record-low sea ice, NOAA report says

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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s annual Arctic report card has shown how rapidly the area is shifting as the Earth continues to warm. Melting permafrost is altering ecosystems, turning over 200 watersheds in Arctic Alaska orange as iron and other elements are released into its rivers. Researchers have observed higher acidity and a greater concentration of toxic metals in these streams. At the American Geophysical Union’s annual meeting in New Orleans, NOAA unveiled the report, describing how climate change is scrambling ecosystems and threatening livelihoods in the Arctic region. The Arctic is warming two to four times faster than other parts of the Earth because of a dynamic called Arctic amplification, which changes both ocean currents and how much sunlight is absorbed by the Earth’s surface near the pole. Additionally, the report’s author discusses how proposed budget cuts to the network of science programs that take measurements in the Arctic could harm the data collection that drives the report and decisions made based on it. The Defense Meteorological Satellite Program is already scheduled to be decommissioned, affecting the measurement of sea ice.

I found this article to be very interesting, but also alarming. I had no idea that the Arctic warms at a much faster rate than the rest of the world because of Arctic Amplification. I believe these reports are an essential part of enacting change and raising awareness because it puts our warnings into data derived from authentic research. This article warns us of the consequences if we get rid of programs and resources essential for the data collection that allows us to make these reports. Stopping climate change is not possible without legislation, and these reports are often presented to the government to enact change.

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Arctic is again the hottest it’s been in 125 years, with record-low sea ice, NOAA report says

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Although the Trump administration has taken steps to scuttle or downplay other reports about climate change, this one struck a similar tone to those from past years.

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The article explains how a tiny ocean microbe called Nitrosopumilus maritimus may help oceans stay healthy as the planet warms. Scientists first thought warmer deep ocean water would harm important microbes that control ocean nutrients. Instead, researchers found that this microbe can adjust to warmer water and lower iron levels by using iron more efficiently. This microbe performs a process called ammonia oxidation, which is part of the ocean’s nitrogen cycle. The nitrogen cycle is important because it helps create nutrients that support marine plankton. Plankton are tiny organisms that form the base of the ocean food chain, meaning many sea animals depend on them to survive. Experiments showed that when temperatures increased, the microbes needed less iron to live and grow. Because of this ability to adapt, scientists believe these microbes may continue helping control ocean nutrients and support marine life even as ocean temperatures continue to rise.

I think this research is interesting because it shows that some organisms can adapt to climate change instead of only being harmed by it. Many studies about climate change focus on negative effects, so it is surprising to learn that certain microbes may actually continue functioning or even become more important in the future. Since these microbes help control nutrients and support plankton, their ability to survive in warmer oceans could help protect parts of the marine ecosystem. However, I still think climate change is a serious problem because not all species can adapt the same way. While these microbes might adjust, other marine organisms could still struggle with warmer water, changing chemistry, or less food. Overall, this study shows how important small microorganisms are to ocean health and why scientists need to keep studying how climate change affects ecosystems.

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Ocean warming may supercharge a tiny microbe that controls marine nutrients

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As deep-sea waters warm, scientists expected trouble for the microbes that help keep ocean chemistry in balance. Instead, researchers found that Nitrosopumilus maritimus can adapt to warmer, iron-limited conditions by using iron more efficiently. Because these microbes control key nitrogen reactions that support marine life, their adaptability could help sustain ocean productivity. In a warming world, they may play an even bigger role in shaping marine nutrient cycles.

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Article #6: Tehran's Smothering Smoke Has Roots in 'Mazut', an unusually dirty fuel

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Article #6: Tehran's Smothering Smoke Has Roots in 'Mazut', an unusually dirty fuel

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Tehran has historically had some of the most polluted air in the world due to their reliance on power plants. Iran primarily uses a sulfur-heavy fossil fuel called Mazut that accelerates carbon outputs. Most of the world has banned burning this material, as it is low quality and highly toxic to the environment, but few countries, including North Korea, do not acknowledge these limitations. Current Israeli-led bombings to Tehran oil facilities have sent Mazut tanks into flames, and the consequences to both locals and the environment has been detrimental. In 2025, Iran's Clean Air Scientific Association estimated 58,000 deaths due to poor air quality. The numbers have since been projected to skyrocket, as Iran experiences economic isolation and mismanagement. Higher value fossil-fuels that are safer alternatives to Mazut are sold overseas for foreign currency. This crisis is prolonged, and the air quality in Tehran will likely increase drastically if change is not made.

I believe the situation in Tehran is more dire to humans than is being presented in the media. It is very important that large-scale issues are addressed from both an anthropocentric and ecocentric viewpoint. The root of this issue lies in Iran's economic instability, which is forcing leaders to turn to Mazut as a cheaper and more accessible option. They are not considering, however, how prolonged usage, especially with recent attacks. will result in complete deterioration of air quality. This will likely cause future lung diseases in locals, as well as contributing to the overall contamination of Earth's atmosphere. I believe Iran should look to improve its management strategies, or even relocating Mazut tanks at the very least, to ensure a safer future for their residents and the environment.

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Article #6: Testing the waters: can pumping chemicals into the ocean help stop global heating?

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Article #6: Testing the waters: can pumping chemicals into the ocean help stop global heating?

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This article is about alkaline chemicals tagged with red dye being pumped into the Gulf of Maine. Scientists are pumping 65,000 litres of this dye to try and ease the spread of global warming. The ocean is already incredibly alkaline, and boosting this natural alkalinity using a chemical antacid should, in theory, encourage the ocean to absorb more carbon. Over a large surface area, and in combination with sharp emissions reductions, "OAE could prevent global temperatures exceeding 2C above preindustrial levels, while locally reducing ocean acidity, which is now higher than at any point in the past million years and poses a dire threat to marine life and fisheries." Over five days at sea, the Loc-Ness project used state-of-the-art technology including autonomous gliders, long-range autonomous underwater vehicles and shipboard sensors to trace the dispersal of 65,000 litres of sodium hydroxide, an alkaline chemical that was tagged with a red dye, from the release site. After this, they measured that the natural alkalinity of the ocean returned. This expirament showed no significant harm to the local sea creatures.

From an environmental viewpoint, this experiment of pumping the alkaline chemicals into the ocean was successful, because it was able to bring back some of the natural alkalinity without harming the ecosystems around it. Bringing back this natural alkalinity has the power to reverse the effects of climate change. The article talks about for some people, using chemicals to solve an environmental problem seems reckless, but Phil Renforth, an expert in carbon dioxide removal, says that we are already experimenting with the climate in uncontrolled ways, so it won't hurt it to experiment a little more. Overall, even though there is some controversy with this experiment, it will help the environment more than it will hurt it, and it will help the spread of climate change, because it will stop it at the source.

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For four days last August, a thick slick of maroon bruised the waters of the Gulf of Maine. The scene, not unlike a toxic red tide, was the result of 65,000 litres of an alkaline chemical, tagged with a red dye, that had been deliberately pumped by scientists into the ocean.

Though it sounds perverse, the event was part of a scientific experiment that could advance a technology to combat both global heating and ocean acidification. Ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE), as the approach is called, acts like natural weathering, but on human - rather than geological - timescales.

"The ocean is already incredibly alkaline. [It holds] 38,000bn tonnes of carbon, stored as dissolved bicarbonate, or baking soda," says Adam Subhas, the lead oceanographer of the research team who announced early results from their test at the AGU Ocean Sciences Meeting in Glasgow.

Boosting this natural alkalinity using a chemical antacid should, in theory, encourage the ocean to absorb more carbon. Over a large surface area, and in combination with sharp emissions reductions, OAE could prevent global temperatures exceeding 2C above preindustrial levels, while locally reducing ocean acidity, which is now higher than at any point in the past million years and poses a dire threat to marine life and fisheries.

Licensed by the US Environmental Protection Agency and overseen by scientists from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the experiment took place 50 miles off the coast of Massachusetts in an area commonly fished for cod, haddock and lobster.

Albeit small in scale, their study, which has yet to go through peer review, found promising results. Over five days at sea, the Loc-Ness project used state-of-the-art technology including autonomous gliders, long-range autonomous underwater vehicles and shipboard sensors to trace the dispersal of 65,000 litres of sodium hydroxide, an alkaline chemical that was tagged with a red dye, from the release site.

During that period, they measured up to 10 tonnes of carbon entering the ocean and an increase in local pH at the deployment site from 7.95 to 8.3, which represents a return of ocean alkalinity to preindustrial levels. The experiment showed no significant harm to creatures including plankton and fish and lobster larvae, though the team did not measure the impact on adult fish or marine mammals.

The experiment took place 50 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, in an area commonly fished for cod, haddock and lobster. Photograph: Sebastian Zeck

For some, using chemicals to solve an environmental problem seems reckless. "What we're seeing is a push to exert more precise control over natural systems," says Benjamin Day, a senior campaigner on climate and energy justice at Friends of the Earth US. Day says he is "profoundly concerned" about the environmental impacts of OAE happening at scale, including the risk of "catastrophic unforeseen consequences".

But, like it or not, we are already experimenting with the climate, in uncontrolled ways. "We really need to think about this in terms of stewardship," says Phil Renforth, an expert in carbon dioxide removal (CDR) at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. "We're adding CO ₂ to the atmosphere every year. A large proportion of that is going into the oceans, and the real question is: can we be proactive about how we manage it?"

In practice, OAE is a lot like liming, which was first used 2,000 years ago by Greek farmers to neutralise the acidity of their fields. More recently, in the 1980s, Scandinavian rivers suffering fish declines from acid rain were heavily dosed with alkaline lime; reported successes include the return of native salmon to Sweden's Ätran River.

There are already numerous OAE startups verified to sell carbon credits through an international carbon removal registry, Isometric. Those credits are being bought by companies who aim to bill their businesses as net zero.

Yet it is still unclear whether OAE works safely at the level required to have a climate benefit. Subhas's team, which includes researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Rutgers University and the Environmental Defence Fund, is the first to test this in open waters.

Their plan is now to model, using ocean data, how the chemical plume continues to absorb CO ₂ over time. "In the best-case scenario, this dispersal would lead to the uptake of about 50 tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into seawater over the course of about a year," says Subhas. For comparison, 50 tonnes of carbon is equivalent to the annual emissions of five UK citizens.

If that seems puny, it is because the team - who have no commercial ambitions with OAE - started small, to demonstrate best practice in a field that is fast evolving. "If these experiments need to be done, we want them to be done by respected, objective, transparent research institutions who are making a real effort to engage and involve us along the way," says Sarah Schumann, a commercial fisher who joined the research team as an observer at sea.

Before her involvement, Schumann attended five of 50 meetings - conducted, in person, by the scientists - with fishers, tribal leaders and stakeholders along the Massachusetts coastline, to address local concerns ahead of the field trial.

While Schumann says local fishers have experience of collaborating with researchers, and generally trust the science, "there was a lot of concern that this could become a Trojan horse that allows other players to get their foot in the door", she says, referring to the fact that commercial operators are keen to show OAE as effective, and therefore eligible for carbon credits.

Shumann is not alone in this concern. "We are getting a lot of companies that are just racing ahead of this," says Day, "and they're being facilitated by a few tech companies who were very eager to offset their emissions".

But if OAE is to scale up as a meaningful technology, it will probably require private and public investment. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says it could remove between 1bn and 15bn tonnes of CO ₂ annually at a cost of up to $160 (£120) per tonne.

"There are not many places on our planet where we can store carbon," says Renforth. "We shouldn't be throwing anything off the table until we've really got a workable solution across the whole space."

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Testing the waters: can pumping chemicals into the ocean help stop global heating?

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To some it was a reckless experiment but scientists hope the dispersal of 65,000 litres of sodium hydroxide into the Gulf of Maine could ease the climate crisis

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Rising seas are reshaping the world’s lowest-lying islands, but responsible travel can be part of the solution. So how can we visit without increasing their vulnerability?

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Article #6: The world’s lowest-lying islands are under threat, here’s how to make a difference

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Article #6: The world’s lowest-lying islands are under threat, here’s how to make a difference

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This article explains that many of the world’s lowest-lying islands, such as Tuvalu and the Maldives, are threatened by rising sea levels caused by climate change. Even small increases in sea level can flood land, damage homes, and harm food production because these islands are only a few meters above sea level. The article also discusses possible solutions, including building artificial islands, restoring coral reefs and mangroves, and practicing responsible tourism that protects local environments and communities. Overall, the article shows that climate change is a major threat to island nations, but sustainable actions and global cooperation could help reduce the impact.

I think that the article does a strong job explaining how rising sea levels caused by climate change are threatening low-lying island nations. I think the article is effective because it shows how this issue directly affects people’s homes, food supply, and future, not just the environment. The examples help readers understand how serious the situation is for islands that are only a few meters above sea level. I also liked that the article includes possible solutions, such as protecting coral reefs, restoring mangroves, and promoting responsible tourism, because it gives some hope instead of only focusing on the problem. Overall, I think the article is informative and helps raise awareness about why climate change is such an urgent issue for vulnerable island communities.

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The world’s lowest-lying islands are under threat—here’s how to make a difference

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Rising seas are reshaping the world’s lowest-lying islands, but responsible travel can be part of the solution. so how can we visit without increasing their vulnerability?

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Article #6 - China was already a wind energy superpower. Now it’s testing giant airborne turbines

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Article #6 - China was already a wind energy superpower. Now it’s testing giant airborne turbines

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Chinas development of Stratospheric Airborne Wind Energy Systems (SAWES), led by Tsinghua University and the startup Beijing SAWES Energy Technology. The project’s latest prototype, the SAWES Type S2000, is a floating wind turbine system that uses helium-filled aerostats to lift turbines thousands of feet into the air, where wind speeds are stronger and more consistent. During a 2025 test in Sichuan Province, the system floated at 2,000 meters and produced 385 kWh of electricity while connected to the grid. Compared to traditional wind turbines, these airborne systems reportedly require up to 90% less material and do not need large concrete foundations, reducing land disturbance and ecological impact. Researchers claim the turbines also create less noise and visual pollution and may be safer for birds. But some experts note that more research and verification of power output and tether technology are needed.

From a technocentric environmental viewpoint, the SAWES project demonstrates how technological innovation can help address climate change and energy shortages. Using high-altitude winds could significantly increase renewable energy production without expanding land-based wind farms, especially in regions where space is limited or environmentally protected. However, the technology still faces challenges, including aviation regulations, reliability of long tethers, and the need for independent testing. A practical solution would be to expand international research collaboration and pilot programs in different environments to verify the system’s efficiency and safety. Governments could also develop clear airspace policies specifically for airborne energy technologies. Combining SAWES with other renewable sources, such as solar and conventional wind farms, could create a more stable and diversified clean energy grid. If proven effective, this technology could provide electricity to remote areas, disaster zones, and islands while reducing dependence on fossil fuels, demonstrating how advanced technology can support sustainable environmental management.

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China was already a wind energy superpower. Now it’s testing giant airborne turbines | CNN

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A Chinese project is testing wind turbines that generate electricity from high in the sky.

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Article 6: Sea level changes due to climate change 

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Article 6: Sea level changes due to climate change 

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The global mean sea level has risen about 8-9 inches since 1880 and a large contribution to this is from the rapid melting of water from glaciers and ice sheets due to the warming of seawater. In 2023, the global mean sea level was 101.4 which is recorded to be the highest annual average in the satellite record since 1933. Climate change is a direct cause of these issues because as earth's temperature increases, large amounts of land ice melt and flow into the ocean. For example massive ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica are losing ice and adding more volume into the ocean. Additionally, water expands when it warms meaning ocean water takes up more space. Naturally there will be different sea levels in different regions, and that is because of the natural variability in the strength of winds and ocean currents that influence how much and where the deeper layers of ocean store heat.

This topic is important because in the U.S almost 30% of the population lives in coastal areas, and sea levels rising contributes to flooding, shoreline erosion, and storm hazards. Globally, 8 out of 10 of the world's largest cities are near the coast. However, people living in coastal areas aren't the only ones affected, urban settings along coastlines are experiencing threats towards infrastructure necessary for jobs and industries. Humans aren't the only one at risk, coastal ecosystems are highly endangered as well. Rising sea levels creates stress on coastal ecosystems that provide protection from storms, and habitat for fish and wildlife. An increase in saltwater contaminates freshwater which is a major supplier for water supplies and ecosystems. In the future, as global temperatures continue to rise, reports have said that many parts of the U.S can expect the overall amount of sea level rise to exceed the global average, and in 2050 be half a foot higher than the national average.

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Global average sea level has risen 8-9 inches since 1880, and the rate is accelerating thanks to glacier and ice sheet melt.

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Scientists at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography have included damage to the ocean by calculating the social cost of carbon and estimating the economic harm caused by carbon dioxide emissions. The study found that ocean-related damages add about 46.2 per ton of CO2, bringing the total cost to 97.2 per ton, nearly doubling previous estimates. With global emissions reaching 41 billion tons in 2024. Nearly 2 trillion in ocean-related damages each year had not previously been counted. Climate change harms the ocean through warming waters and chemical changes, which damage coral reefs, mangroves, fisheries, and coastal infrastructure while also reducing seafood supplies and important nutrients. These impacts are uneven because island nations and smaller coastal economies being especially vulnerable.

I think this research is valuable because it shows that climate change is even more costly to society than many people think. Oceans support food systems, economies, and ecosystems for millions of people, so ignoring their damage gives an incomplete picture of the true consequences of carbon emissions. By putting an economic value on these losses, scientists can help governments and policymakers better understand the urgency of reducing emissions and protecting marine environments. It also highlights how climate change can disproportionately affect coastal and island communities that rely heavily on the ocean for their livelihoods and nutrition.

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Damage to the ocean nearly doubles economic cost of climate change, new study finds

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Scientists have factored damage to the ocean to the social cost of carbon for the first time -- finding it nearly doubles the economic impact from climate change.

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Article 6: The effects of climate change on wildlife

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Article 6: The effects of climate change on wildlife

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This article discusses the effects of climate change on wildlife animals, including specific examples of animals such as snow leopards, tigers, penguins, and pandas. The article begins by detailing how climate change is affecting wildlife; between 1970 and 2020, 73% of monitored wildlife populations declined, mostly due to climate change. As our planet heats up rapidly, animals do not have enough time to migrate to different climates or adapt to changing ecosystem conditions, leading to their deaths. The article details that up to 14% of species face a very high risk of extinction at 1.5 degrees C of warming, and at 3 degrees C of warming, up to 29% of species could become vulnerable to extinction. The article also details that the effects of climate change do not just include temperature changes, but also changes in weather; Earth is experiencing harsher weather conditions such as floods and droughts, and wildlife is struggling to adapt to these harsh changes, their food and water sources are disappearing, and their homes are not habitable for them anymore. The article mentions specific examples of wildlife most affected by climate change. For example, Antarctic sea ice cover has reduced by 60% over the last 30 years, affecting conditions for penguins; their chick hatching times are affected, and their food sources are declining with the temperature changes. The article ends by providing solutions to combat climate change, including reducing our reliance on greenhouse gases.

This article was very eye-opening to the fact that climate change is not just affecting humans and our habitats, but also animals in different ecosystems. Reading this article was also helpful for me as an IB Art student whose exhibition theme surrounds the topic of endangered species and biodiversity. It was helpful to see specific examples of animals affected by climate change for me to include in my artist research. I appreciated that the article's tone was not pessimistic, but it detailed the harmful effects of climate change that are being caused by human selfishness, and it offered solutions on how we can combat climate change and reduce our reliance on greenhouse gases to make ecosystems more habitable for these animals. I also liked how the article did not just include obvious examples such as elephants and koalas which are usually the poster animals for the climate justice movement, but they used a diverse range of animals from different habitats and how they are affected by climate change in different ways and how humans have both created these horrible conditions in these different ecosystems but also how we can combat it.

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The effects of climate change on Wildlife

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Climate change affects us all – wildlife and people. To protect wildlife, we have to protect our one shared home. Together, we can do it.

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Article Review #6: Antarctica just saw the fastest glacier collapse ever recorded

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Article Review #6: Antarctica just saw the fastest glacier collapse ever recorded

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This article talks about Antarctica’s Hektoria Glacier and how it lost about half its ice in two months after it lifted off a flat seabed and shattered apart. Scientists say if similar things continue to happen it could accelerate sea levels rising. This glacier collapsed mainly because of flat bedrock beneath it. As the ice thinned, the bedrock led to large sections of ice lifting off the ground and floating. While the Hektoria Glacier is relatively small, if this were to happen to a larger glacier, consequences for sea levels would be severe. The glacier thinned away from the bedrock layer because of a process called calving, which is accelerated by increased water and air temperatures. Calving is when edges of the glacier break away from it.

I found this article alarming and interesting because if similar events occur on larger glaciers sea levels could rise drastically, which could threaten coastal communities. For them, this could create more frequent flooding, and loss of homes. Since events like these accelerate the process of sea level rise, there will be less time to prepare for the events. It is also alarming because there is no known way to reverse this from happening.

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Antarctica just saw the fastest glacier collapse ever recorded

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Antarctica’s Hektoria Glacier stunned scientists by retreating eight kilometers in just two months, with nearly half of it collapsing in record time. The rapid breakup was driven by a flat, underwater bedrock surface that allowed the glacier to suddenly float and fracture from below. Satellite and seismic data captured the dramatic chain reaction in near real time. The findings raise concerns that much larger glaciers could one day collapse just as quickly.

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Article #6: UN says world must jointly tackle issues of climate change, pollution, biodiversity and land loss

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Article #6: UN says world must jointly tackle issues of climate change, pollution, biodiversity and land loss

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Following a new environmental assessment by almost 300 scientists from 83 countries, there are calls to address pressing environmental issues including climate change and biodiversity loss that threaten over 1 million plant and animal species with extinction. Experts argue that many of the issues our planet faces are deeply intertwined, particularly climate change and biodiversity loss. Furthermore, other societal issues (like worsening health, poverty, threatened food and water security, and even national security) are also tied to these environmental problems. Experts advocate for an approach that involves every area of government, the financial sector, industry and citizens and a circular economy that recognizes that natural resources are limited. The timing of this meeting is crucial, as nations are not on track with the goals they made 10 years ago to slow climate change.

While I agree with the urgentness of this article, it offers problems only, with no solutions. I wish they spent time discussing more of the potential solutions to these problems, rather than nitpicking the failures of these countries. I like how they connect different perspectives (environmental, economic, social), and I agree that they are all dependent on each other. It reminds me of the three Es (environmental, equity, and economic). Solutions need to address all three to be viable. I think we should use scenarios like The Montreal Protocol as examples of successful global solutions, and look to implement similar diplomacy in the future with other environmental issues.

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UN says world must jointly tackle issues of climate change, pollution, biodiversity and land loss

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The most comprehensive global environment assessment ever undertaken calls for a new approach to jointly tackle the most pressing environmental issues including climate change and biodiversity loss that threaten over 1 million plant and animal species with extinction.

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Article #6: Climate change is speeding up — the pace nearly doubled in ten years

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Article #6: Climate change is speeding up — the pace nearly doubled in ten years

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According to new trends published in Nature recently, global warming is not only worsening, it's speeding up. Researchers from the University of Maine found that "global warming has sped up, to a rate of around 0.35 ºC per decade," faster than previously thought. Even when environmental fluctuations are taken into account, such as the El Niño and La Niña weather phenomenons, the vast increase in the worsening of global warming is painfully apparent. Not all scientists agree on the 0.35 ºC per decade estimate, its methodology, and its consideration of environmental factors, with some giving a more conservative 0.30 ºC per decade, but all agree that the issue is serious and is not being addressed adequately, considering that we are predicted to overtake the Paris Agreement temperature threshold by 2030.

I had always vaguely understood that warming levels were exponential in nature, but I had no idea it was this bad or that the extent of it was this disputed. I also did not realize just how close we were to breaking the Paris Agreement threshold. Unfortunately, barring massive political change, I don't think there will be any positive change, and we will definitely not turn around from that grim 2030 projection. I also think that data like the University of Maine's should be gathered on a yearly basis to monitor how the growth rate is changing over time.

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Climate change is speeding up — the pace nearly doubled in ten years

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Earth is now warming at a rate of around 0.35 ºC per decade, fresh analysis finds.

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Article #5: Soil Erosion Threat Increasing with Climate Change 

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Article #5: Soil Erosion Threat Increasing with Climate Change 

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This article explains how soil erosion is becoming a greater threat due to climate change, especially in the northeastern U.S. Warmer temperatures and more intense rainfall events increase the soil loss from the agricultural land. The current erosion rate average is about 4.62 tons per acre per year, which results in about 1.70 billion tons of soil lost annually and major economic losses for the farmers as well. The article also explains that the extreme rainfall events cause most of the erosion in short periods of time, rather than a high storm coming in; this soil erosion in the short periods of time happens especially when the soils are exposed by tillage. Additionally, studies show that no-till farming with permanent soil cover can greatly reduce erosion, making soil conservation very important.

In my opinion, this is very concerning because soil is the foundation of the Earth and is essential for food production and the stability of the ecosystem. If soil continues to be lost day by day due to erosion, it can lead to a serious shortage of fertile land, making it harder to grow crops. This would directly increase the risk of food insecurity and higher food prices, affecting both the farmers and consumers. Furthermore, losing topsoil also reduces the soil nutrients and organic matter, leading to lower crop yields and forcing the farmers to rely more on fertilizers, which can be harmful for both the plants and for us consumers as well. In the long term, this can further damage the environment through runoff and water pollution. Therefore, protecting soil through conservation practices such as no-till farming and permanent soil cover is extremely important to ensure a more sustainable agriculture and the future food security as well.

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Soil Erosion Threat Increasing with Climate Change

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Warmer temperatures and more intense rainfall events in the Northeast increase the threat of soil erosion and make protecting soil with permanent cover increasingly important.

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Article #5: AgTech Seedlings: Bonsai Robotics secures $15M to advance automated fruit harvesters

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Article #5: AgTech Seedlings: Bonsai Robotics secures $15M to advance automated fruit harvesters

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Agricultural Technology, also known as AgTech, is projected to be the new frontier of sustainable farming. Bonsai Robotics has received a $15 Million grant to continue their AI powered autonomous farming technology around the world. It has already been tested in numerous countries around the world. They have been useful in mass agricultural production, particularly their flagship product, Visionsteer, which turns existing machinery into autonomous vehicles. This automation will allow current agricultural practices to be sustained, and will limit labor shortages. It will be used to form new partnerships with other agricultural companies, such as Bison Ventures, Cibus Capital, and Acre Venture Partners. The company is based in San Jose, California, which is an epicenter for the agricultural industry.

While this new technology appears as a good solution from an anthropocentric perspective, sustained use of Artificial Intelligence may have an overall harmful impact on the environment. Bonsai Robotics' use of AI allows for reduced labor shortages, which will make way for increased cash flow and improve the overall profitability of the company. This will minimize food shortages in the long run. Enhanced technology may also improve resource efficiency, as the machinery is precise and reduces fuel usage. However, using AI itself allows for massive data consumption and emits fossil fuels, contributing to global warming. I believe this solution should be used within limitations and closely monitored.

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Agtech Seedlings: Bonsai Robotics secures $15M to advance automated fruit harvesters

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Also in this week’s farm technology news: CH4 Global begins large-scale production of methane reduction feed additives and an indoor greens grower expands and rebrands.

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Article #5: ADM and Bayer Expand Sustainable Soybean Program in India

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Article #5: ADM and Bayer Expand Sustainable Soybean Program in India

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This article discusses how ADM and Bayer have extended their sustainable agriculture partnership in India for another three years, which will support 100,000 soybean farmers in Maharashtra. The program was launched in 2022, and will expand to more districts, covering a much larger farming area. It focuses on training farmers in sustainable practices such as pest management, biodiversity protection, and ProTerra-aligned standards, while using Farmer Producer Organisations to extend reach and improve living conditions of farmers.

In my opinion this partnership is a step in the right direction because it goes beyond short-term aid and focuses on long term stability for farmers while prioritizing the environment. The size of the expansion and focus on training shows a serious commitment to sustainability, not just what will produce higher agricultural yields. If it is executed successfully and consistently, I think it could become a solid model for large companies to responsibly support farmers and the environment.

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ADM and Bayer expand sustainable soybean program in India

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Nutrition leader ADM and healthcare and agriculture giant Bayer have jointly revealed a three-year extension to their sustainable agriculture partnership to support soybean farmers in Maharashtra, India.

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Article 5- “Soil Searching: The Hidden Crisis of Soil Health in the Asia Pacific”

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Article 5- “Soil Searching: The Hidden Crisis of Soil Health in the Asia Pacific”

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The article explains how soil degradation has become a serious but often ignored crisis in the region. It specifically highlights erosion, salinization, contamination from heavy metals and pesticides, and land subsidence as major threats that directly affect food production and ecosystems. What stood out to me was the statistic that nearly one-third of the world’s land is already degraded and that soil degradation could increase by almost 50% by 2070, showing how urgent the problem is. The article also explains how human activities such as industrial agriculture, mining, deforestation, and overuse of chemical fertilizers have worsened soil health. I read of traditional practices, like terrace farming in India and rice cultivation methods across Asia, which are especially effective because it showed that solutions to soil degradation already exist and have worked for centuries.

Reading this article made me realize that soil degradation is much of a policy and management issue, as it is a farming problem. While regenerative agriculture techniques like minimal tillage and organic matter can increase soil carbon by up to 40%. In my opinion, governments in the Asia Pacific need to provide financial incentives, training programs, and stricter regulations on industrial pollution and chemical use. Policies should limit heavy metals and pesticide runoff and invest in remediation methods for contaminated soils. If soil continues to be treated as disposable, food insecurity and environmental damage will only worsen.

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Article #5: Reintroduced legislation helps farmers transition to organic

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Article #5: Reintroduced legislation helps farmers transition to organic

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The Opportunities in Organic Act of 2026 is a reintroduced piece of legislation aimed at helping farmers transition to organic agriculture. Led by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and supported by lawmakers from both parties, the bill focuses on reducing high organic certification costs and expanding technical assistance from the USDA. It would increase cost-share payments, provide extra support for underserved and socially disadvantaged farmers, and fund organizations that help producers adopt organic practices. Supporters argue that organic farming improves soil health, reduces harmful pesticides, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and helps create a more sustainable and resilient food system.

I think the Opportunities in Organic Act is a positive and necessary step for American agriculture. Many farmers want to switch to organic farming but are held back by high costs and lack of support, which makes this bill especially important. By lowering certification expenses and increasing technical assistance, the government is encouraging more sustainable farming without forcing farmers to take on unnecessary financial risk. Organic farming also benefits the environment and public health, which helps everyone, not just farmers. Overall, this legislation seems like a smart investment in the future of agriculture, rural communities, and a healthier food system.

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Reintroduced legislation helps farmers transition to organic

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WASHINGTON, D.C. | U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) joined 14 lawmakers in reintroducing the Opportunities in Organic Act, legislation designed to help farmers and other agricultural producers transition to organic practices.

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Article #5: Corn-based material introduced for biodegradable packaging

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Article #5: Corn-based material introduced for biodegradable packaging

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This article discusses CornNext’s development of CornNext-17, a biodegradable material made from corn starch through a natural fermentation process. The material can be used to produce items such as straws, cutlery, food containers, and other packaging. It breaks down in about 30 days in natural environments and does not contain harmful chemicals like PFAS. Even though it decomposes easily, it is designed to be strong enough for normal daily use and lasts longer in water than paper products. The article also explains Corn Next’s plans to move operations to Illinois to be closer to corn suppliers and research universities. Overall, CornNext-17 is presented as a promising, sustainable alternative to traditional plastic.

I found this article to be very interesting and hopeful. I think a product like this would be very beneficial for the environment as it helps reduce plastic waste. I hope that this starch and other biodegradable materials can be incorporated in various dining establishments and everyday life. Although there has recently been a rise in sustainable alternatives, there is still so much plastic being used in society so it is essential we take advantage of discoveries like these. I hope that the company who created CornNext-17 can share their methodology to other companies so they can begin producing this material as well.

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Lend an ear: Corn-based material introduced for biodegradable packaging

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Corn Next believes it has cracked the corn code for more sustainable packaging and is eyeing a move to Illinois to be closer to supplier ADM.

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Article #5: Keeping Cattle on the Move and Carbon in the Soil

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Article #5: Keeping Cattle on the Move and Carbon in the Soil

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This article describes how ranchers and conservationists are working together to protect prairies in Canada and the U.S. Prairies used to make up a quarter of North American land, but they were plowed up to plant grain and other crops. Now, only a third of those native prairies remain. Grasslands play a key role in storing carbon, holding up to thirty percent of all carbon stored in the Earth’s soil. Plowing releases large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Grasslands across the world, from Africa, to Asia, to Europe, are all threatened. Ranchers from North America, along with ecologists in Brazil and UN workers in Kyrgyzstan are part of a global network of people working to protect prairies and grasslands. Ranchers have begun to adopt new farming practices, like rotating herds and resting paddocks for large intervals. This improves grassland health, improving carbon sequestration.

I think that this article is very interesting as it shows that traditional livelihoods can coexist with scientific innovation and climate solutions. It often seems like these things are at odds, but in reality, they are closely interlinked. I liked reading the perspectives of the ranchers about why these solutions are so important. Many of these ranchers have lived close to the land for many years, and their entire lives are tied to the prairies. It’s very hopeful to me that there are vast networks of people across the globe all working to improve the health of our planet.

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The article explains how new technology is helping agriculture become more sustainable and efficient. One major development is precision farming, which uses drones, GPS, and sensors placed in fields to collect information about soil, crops, and weather. These tools show farmers exactly where plants need water, fertilizer, or disease treatment, instead of treating the whole field. This helps reduce waste and protects the environment. The article also discusses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, which analyze farm data to predict crop diseases, pest problems, and yields before they become serious. Internet of Things (IoT) devices connect sensors, machines, and mobile apps, allowing farmers to monitor their farms in real time, even from far away. In addition, genetic technologies are being used to develop crops that can survive drought and climate stress. Overall, these technologies help farmers grow more food while using fewer resources and causing less environmental damage.

The article suggests several ways to make farming more sustainable by using new technology wisely. It explains that tools like sensors, data systems, and AI can help farmers use less water, fewer chemicals, and avoid wasting resources. One important idea is that these technologies should be easy to access and affordable, especially for small farmers, not just large farms. The article also introduces the idea of combining modern technology with traditional farming methods, which can help protect the environment and improve crop production. In my opinion, the article is helpful and easy to understand because it shows both the benefits and the challenges of using technology in farming. I liked that it focuses on helping farmers make better decisions instead of replacing them. Overall, the article shows that when technology is used responsibly, it can improve food production while also caring for the environment and future generations

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Highlights

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The agriculture industry is undergoing a major transformation.

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Focus is shifting towards food security and environmental sustainability.

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Emerging technologies are improving crop disease management and supply chain efficiency.

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This study explores how new technology affects sustainable agriculture.

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Farmers are adopting technologies to better manage land and boost sustainable production.

Abstract

The need to ensure food security and promote environmental sustainability has led to a transformative period in agriculture. This period is characterized by the use of novel technology, which provides solutions that effectively address ecological concerns while also ensuring economic viability. Emerging technologies, such as precision farming enabled by drones, sensor-based monitoring systems and genetic editing techniques that result in drought-resistant crops, are significantly changing the agricultural sector. The integration of data analytics and machine learning algorithms is transforming supply chain management and enhancing the capabilities of predictive analytics in the context of crop diseases. Technological interventions serve to optimize efficiency and minimize the adverse ecological effects associated with farming, promoting the goals of sustainable agriculture. However, it is important to carefully address ethical and socio-economic considerations, including accessibility and data privacy, to manage these effects effectively. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the contributions of emerging technology to sustainable agriculture, evaluate its constraints, and suggest a comprehensive framework for its ethical and equitable integration. Communication technology has also impacted the agricultural sector, particularly with the increased use of connected devices. Artificial intelligence and deep learning advancements make processing collected data faster and more efficient, leading to more sustainable agricultural production using free, open-source software and sensor technology solutions. This technology enhances land optimization and boosts agricultural productivity, making sustainable farming practices more viable for both large and small-scale farmers. Our bibliometric analysis indicates a notable increase in interest in integrating sustainable agricultural methods with new technologies, particularly since 2018. It also revealed a strong link between precision agriculture, smart farming, machine learning, and the Internet of Things. However, awareness of technology is not very prevalent in the Asian region, especially among small-scale farmers. As a result, excessive usage of agricultural resources and wastage bring many adverse repercussions, and it's a high constraint to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Data availability

No data was used for the research described in the article.

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Advancing sustainability: The impact of emerging technologies in agriculture

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The need to ensure food security and promote environmental sustainability has led to a transformative period in agriculture. This period is characteri...

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The article dives into the evolution of Satoyama, an indigenous Japanese approach to farming, from its birth around the 1600s to its modern variation in now Tokyo. Traditionally Japan has Kanto Loam soil, it is known for its low fertility and was managed by employing a circular approach to improve it. Where "inputs" of leaves and organic waste matter are transformed into a natural nutrient-rich compost created with grass ash, animal manure and human night soil.. Although urban sprawl has resulted in the fragmentation of the once massive ecosystem, the "Modernized Urban Satoyama" maintains the flow by capturing green waste from urban parks, schools, and food waste from urban shopping outlets to create their own firtilzers. In this approach to land management, the urban area is considered a nutrient storage site that reduces the need for synthetic chemical-based fertilizers, which are major contributors to eutrophication in local water catchments. This approach drastically reduces the ecological footprint of food production by employing a closed-loop approach that minimizes the distance between production and consumption sites, effectively making the local food system resilient to global supply chain disruptions.

In my opinion, the Satoyama model is an essential blueprint for global soil conservation since it reconfigures the Environmental Value System away from a technocentric mentality and toward an Ecocentric and sustainable ond.  In contrast, the Satoyama model treats the farm as a complex system that not only produces food but also yields essential service for the community around it. In order to address this global catastrophe. I thought it was very cool how the artilce spoke about everyone contributing to fresh produce that they can then go buy. These farms are in the middle of their neigborhoods and they can literally see the production of the crops that they can then go consume. It is grown fresh and I know I can't say that I know of farmers around my town that I can then go buy from stands in the streets and that just adds on the community and the economy as one. All in all I feel modern Satoyama is a great example of how we can move away from modern farming with chemical fertilizers and create a community based service that benefits everyone.

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By Akiko Iida - project lecturer at the School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo - and Makoto Yokohari - presidential endowed chair of ARISE City Research Unit, The University of Tokyo. Urban-rural mixed landscapes in Tokyo offer a rare and inspiring example of how a dense metropolis can sustain its agricultural heritage. Once dismissed as a consequence of unplanned urban sprawl during the postwar period, these landscapes are now recognized as a sustainable urban form. This article introduces the concept of "urban satoyama" - a contemporary interpretation of traditional satoyama landscapes within the urban context - and draws on historical transitions and current practices to examine how it supports evolving circular food systems.
Urban agriculture in Tokyo, Japan, has a history spanning over 400 years. In 1603, when Tokugawa Shogun established Edo (present-day Tokyo) as the new capital, agricultural villages developed in the peri-urban and rural areas to supply fresh food and fuel to the growing city.

Even after the fall of the Edo Shogunate and Japan's subsequent opening to the outside world in 1867, the landscapes of peri-urban and rural areas remained largely unchanged. However, following World War II Tokyo experienced rapid urban sprawl, leading to widespread urbanization and a significant reduction in farmland and woodlands.

In response, the Productive Green Land Act was revised in 1991 to help conserve urban farmland (see Box by downloading the full issue). According to the census in 2020, approximately 10 000 farming households and 6530 hectares of farmland remain in Tokyo, accounting for 0.1 percent of all households and 3 percent of the city's land, respectively. It contributes to Tokyo's distinctive urban-rural mixed landscape.

These mixed-use urban areas were formed as a result of the interaction between two opposing forces: agricultural stakeholders who aimed to preserve farmland and urban planners who sought to promote urbanization in response to housing shortages. From the perspective of those advocating urbanization, the lack of a clear boundary between urban and rural areas, as well as the presence of urban farmlands within high-dense urban areas, was sometime regarded as a failure of urban planning.

However, as Japan entered an era of population decline in 2008, a major shift in perspective occurred. In 2015, the Basic Act on the Promotion of Urban Agriculture was enacted, marking a significant turning point in national policy. In 2017, the City Planning Act was also amended, introducing a new land-use zone called Garden Residential Zone ( Den'en Jūkyo Chiiki), specifically intended to preserve farmland within residential areas. Today, even from urban planners' standpoint, urban farmland is recognized as an integral and valuable land use within cities.

The origins of satoyama

In the Kanto Plain, where Tokyo is located, much of the soil is Kanto Loam. Formed from volcanic ash, it holds water well but tends to drain poorly and is typically low in nutrients. To improve soil quality, agricultural woodlands were developed as a traditional form of land use during the Edo period. Farmers collected leaf litter to produce organic compost and improve soil fertility. They also used various types of organic waste - including grass ash, animal manure and human night soil - as fertilizers. By the early 18th century, Edo had grown into a metropolis of over one million people, supported by circular agricultural practices.

At that time, rural villages were composed not only of rice paddies and vegetable fields, but also of diverse landscape elements that formed unique socio-ecological productive landscapes known as satoyama. These included homestead woodlands ( yashikirin) that surrounded farmhouses, coppice forests ( zoukibayashi) used to collect leaf litter and firewood, agricultural irrigation channels, drinking water channels, and rivers.

Over time, however, these satoyama landscapes became fragmented due to urban sprawl. Contaminated water led to the termination of rice paddies, while the widespread use of chemical fertilizers and gas diminished the need for coppice forests. Many fields were also converted into residential areas. What remains today are urban farmlands maintained by farming households, the homestead woodlands ( yashikirin), water channels with recycled water from sewage treatment plants and rivers that have been entirely concreted.

Evolution in urban context

Although these transformed landscapes may seem to have lost the beauty and integrity of traditional satoyama, the underlying systems of resource use have not disappeared. They have evolved and adapted to urban realities.

For example, rather than collecting leaves from coppice forests, today's farmers gather leaf litter from shared green spaces within the urban fabric, such as urban parks, schoolyards, roadside trees and shrines. Some urban farmers also utilize food waste such as rice bran or buckwheat husks from nearby stores, and even manure or bedding straw from zoos.

In many cases, such practices have been carried out based on farmers' own decisions rather than as the result of institutional support from local governments. The farmers cite economic reasons, such as the lower cost of producing their own fertilizer from freely available organic waste instead of purchasing chemical fertilizers, and operational reasons such as the need for organic compost to create high-quality soil.

This evolving system could be described as a modernized "urban satoyama", a contemporary form of socio-ecological landscape that reinterprets traditional resource circulation within the urban context. Unlike traditional satoyama, urban satoyama landscapes incorporate green waste from urban parks and organic waste generated by urban residents to support circular agricultural practices.

Of course, not all urban farmers follow these traditional practices; many have shifted entirely to chemical fertilizers. However, in addition to older generations, younger urban farmers with a strong environmental consciousness are increasingly adopting organic farming method inspired by the traditional circular practices of satoyama agriculture, including leaf compost farming.

Urban circular food systems

Today, farmers are leveraging their proximity to residential areas to operate their agricultural businesses in various ways. One such approach is direct-to-consumer sales at farm stands, in which more than 70 percent of Tokyo's urban farmers engage. Others supply produce for school lunches, or lease plots for allotments and community gardening. These diverse strategies take advantage of the urban-rural mixed landscape and represent a distinctly urban characteristic. They differ from rural farming, which primarily focuses on wholesale market distribution.

This proximity allows Tokyo's urban farmers to keep the distance between production and consumption remarkably short. Residents can enjoy locally grown produce while passing by the very fields where it was cultivated. This proved to be a significant advantage during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to restrictions on movement, global supply chain disruptions drew increased attention to local food sources such as farm stands and allotments. Recent research found that urban residents in Tokyo who used farm stands or allotments had significantly lower levels of concern about current and future food insecurity than those who did not. This underscores the critical role of local urban food systems in ensuring food security and community resilience in times of disruption.

Moreover, Tokyo's local food system involves not only production and consumption but also the reuse of organic waste through composting. This small-scale, closed-loop model supports urban sustainability by reducing waste, conserving resources and reintegrating nutrient cycles within the city.

Tangible and intangible heritage

The urban-rural mixed landscapes of urban satoyama in Tokyo represent a form of tangible cultural heritage that is continuously evolving. Equally important is the continuity of intangible heritage, including traditional farming practices such as leaf composting and the knowledge of cultivating heirloom crops. These tangible and intangible forms of urban satoyama have been shaped through the collaborative efforts of individual farmers, agricultural cooperatives and government bodies responsible for creating supportive policies.

Going forward, it will be essential to further evolve tangible and intangible heritage by actively engaging citizens in this process. This would not only support the ageing population of urban farmers, but also provide urban residents with a meaningful way to reconnect the wisdom of satoyama with urban life. Such engagement could inspire shifts toward more circular lifestyles among citizens. This, in turn, embodies the contemporary value of urban satoyama as a living heritage.

Download the full issue of Urban Agriculture Magazine 42 below to explore the whole article.

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Urban satoyama: evolving circular food systems in Tokyo - RUAF Urban Agriculture and Food Systems

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Urban-rural mixed landscapes in Tokyo offer a rare and inspiring example of how a dense metropolis can sustain its agricultural heritage. Once dismissed as a consequence of unplanned urban sprawl during the postwar period, these landscapes are now recognized as a sustainable urban form.

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Article #5: How China Was Able to Lead the Way for Soil and Water Conservation

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Article #5: How China Was Able to Lead the Way for Soil and Water Conservation

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The Loess plateau spans across three provinces in China, covering more than 245,000 square miles. It was stated that by the end of the 20th century, it would be considered to be the “most eroded place on Earth”, according to the leading ecologist John D Liu. How this was able to occur was from farmers spanning generations who broke down the soil and destroyed it. In 1999, the Chinese government decided to take action by launching a pilot program that was backed by World Bank funding. The focus of the project was to restore agricultural production and natural income in the plateau. The project was developed for more than three years, with the collaboration of experts, communities, farmers, and local officials. The project offered incentives for people to convert their farmland to grassland and forests. Alongside tax benefits to balance out farming losses and offer land use contracts to enforce more sustainable farming. In 2016, more than 11,500 sq miles were converted into a forest or grassland. It was due to ending monoculture agriculture and converting to mass-species planting that the plateau was able to regenerate.

When I saw the article, I was able to recognize the plateau. We watched a documentary last year about the restorative practices implemented around the plateau. When reviewing the article, I would consider this to be one of the more optimistic articles that I’ve reviewed. Seeing that 11,500 sq miles of the plateau were able to regenerate simply by changing the farming practices. What we can learn from this article is that maybe subsistence farmers and farmers in general should make the switch from monoculture to cultivating multiple species planting. Another thing we can learn from this article is that financial incentives can help persuade people to adopt more sustainable farming practices, and perhaps sustainability practices in general.

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‘All the birds returned’: How a Chinese project led the way in water and soil conservation

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The Loess plateau was considered the most eroded place on Earth until China took action and reversed decades of damage from grazing and farming

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#5. No-Till Agriculture in South America and The Importance of Herbicides

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#5. No-Till Agriculture in South America and The Importance of Herbicides

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This article is about no-till agriculture in South America. No-till agriculture is the practice of planting crops in unprepared soil and only opening slots, trenches, or bands of sufficient widths and depths and not using more than needed. Brazil is the leader of no-till farming and there is a very low percentage of tillage among small farmers. Argentina and Paraguay have also adopted the practice and have reduced costs greatly. No-tilling agriculture has been shown to greatly reduce soil erosion and water run off. That being said, tilling's purpose is to get rid of weeds and that is essential in agriculture, so Herbicides are used to make that no-tilling can still be done. This article actually argues that the reason that the no-tilling methods in South America is because of chemical herbicides.

Before this article, I wasn't familiar with tilling or how they affected the environment. I understand the need for it but also clearly see the negative ramifications of it. I'm happy to see that countries like Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil have been so successful using the system. I do wonder how effective this'll be in the long term since it seems to be reliant on the use of chemical Herbicides. I also wonder if non-chemical Herbicides could possibly result in the same success.

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Importance of Herbicides for No-Till Agriculture in South America - CropLife International

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Article 5: Sustainable Agriculture in Idaho

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Article 5: Sustainable Agriculture in Idaho

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This article explains how agriculture is very important to Idaho's economy and its conservation. Approximately 85% of Idaho's water supply is used to support agriculture, but climate change is damaging Idaho's farming systems, which in turn disrupts their food systems as crops such as potatoes and barley are necessary for food and farming sustainability. However, Idaho has started to shift towards regenerative farming practices, which are increasing its soil health and food security. The Nature Conservancy program is partnering with local farmers in Idaho to adopt farming methods that are more sustainable and ensure food security. This shift towards regenerative farming allows for improved soil health, as farmers reduce their need for fertilizers, pesticides, and excess water. This helps the crops combat stress with climate change and leads to healthier soil with improved water quality and more nutrient-dense food. While this program is still new, it has clearly established methods of collaborating with demonstration farms and local businesses, and is operating on the principles of cover cropping, minimal tillage, crop diversity, and integrating livestock to ensure long-term health of Idaho's food and water systems.

I think this model of regenerative farming is very exciting and shows a sustainable method of ensuring food security and agricultural productivity. I thought this article was particularly interesting as it related to my IA and the issue of soil health, and I think that many developing countries that are suffering from soil salinization and issues with soil health would benefit from these practices of regenerative farming. I think that elements of regenerative farming could also be applied to aquatic food production systems like the ones we were studying in class. I think that Inuit fish farming could be an example of regenerative farming in the context of aquatic food production. While I do agree that this system has the opportunity to become more developed over time, I think that this program being adopted in a state that depends very much on agricultural productivity for food security such as Idaho shows that there is a future with regenerative farming and that we could see it being implemented across many different ecosystems and in many different contexts.

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The Healthy Soil, Clean Water Program is rooted in the belief that it is possible to sustainably feed a growing population while promoting a healthy environment and helping communities thrive.

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Article #5 - Soil and Water: Why We Need Conservation Agriculture 

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Article #5 - Soil and Water: Why We Need Conservation Agriculture 

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This article explains that soil and water are being harmed by things like too much ploughing and leaving fields bare, which leads to soil erosion, loss of nutrients, and pollution of water with chemicals like nitrates. Conservation agriculture, which includes practices such as using cover crops and reducing tillage, helps protect the soil, improves water quality, stores more carbon, and supports healthier ecosystems. It also says that more farmers should use these practices and that government incentives could help increase their adoption to ensure sustainable food production and protect the environment.

The article is pretty informative and easy to understand, especially for learning about how farming affects soil and water. It clearly explains the problems caused by regular farming, like soil erosion and water pollution, without being confusing. I also liked that it didn’t just point out the issues but actually talked about solutions, such as using cover crops and reducing tillage. Overall, it’s a helpful article that explains why conservation agriculture is important clearly and straightforwardly.

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Soil and Water: Why We Need Conservation Agriculture

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The widespread adoption of conservation agricultural practices to protect soils is key to ensuring food security and water quality for current and future generations in the United States.

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Article #5: Nutrialgae – Novel sustainable algae-based fertilizers

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Article #5: Nutrialgae – Novel sustainable algae-based fertilizers

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As the global population continues to grow, the demand for food is even increasing. The current agricultural systems commonly used involve heavy use of chemical fertilizers. These are often applied in excess amounts and get washed in bodies of water. The excess nitrates and phosphates wreak havoc on the marine ecosystems with Eutrophication. However, there is a solution trying to be implemented by a biotech startup company called Ficosterra. They have developed seaweed-based fertilizers, calling the project “Nutrialgae”. This aims to try and feed the population while having less environmental impact. Traditional farming is very taxing on the natural environment. Chemical fertilizers can cause nutrient pollution as well as degrade the soil's ability to filter nutrients, overall contributing to a loss of soil quality. This type of fertilizer isn’t a sustainable option, it degrades the productivity and long term quality of the soil. The challenge here is that while it may seem helpful in the short term, chemicals are actually causing more harm than good. In the Nutrialgae project, seaweed extract is used to make biostimulants and biofertilizers. Seaweed is a readily available and renewable resource. The end product improves soil quality and enhances the nutrient uptake, increasing crop yield by up to 20% when compared to traditional methods. This system can reduce reliance on chemicals without compromising crop productivity. Ficosterra also offers scale-up support and implementation to help its solutions be adopted in developing countries.

This article was very interesting because it directly connects the chapter we just finished and the one we are about to enter. In my opinion it shows how connected the land and ocean are to each other, especially when it comes to human impact and pollution. The natural solution of seaweed fertilizer protects marine ecosystems which in turn protects the aquatic food production systems, another important global food source. Nutrialgae shows the importance of maintaining both a healthy ocean and terrestrial ecosystem as the raw materials for the product (seaweed) comes from the ocean. By changing the way we farm on the land, we also change the health of the marine ecosystems.

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The Ocean Innovation Challenge (OIC) - UNDP

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NUTRIALGAE - novel sustainable algae-based fertilizers

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This Project Is Helping Tackle Eutrophication in the Mediterranean Sea

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This Project Is Helping Tackle Eutrophication in the Mediterranean Sea

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The article provides an overview of how the SEACURE project addresses eutrophication in the Mediterranean through a soil–river–sea approach. It explains the scientific basis of eutrophication as we learned in class and then links the problem to concrete solutions being tested in Spain, Italy, and Greece. A major strength of the article is its emphasis on prevention at the source, particularly through precision agriculture, soil health restoration, and improved nutrient management, rather than relying on fixing the outcome. The inclusion of nature-based solutions demonstrates a strong eco-centric stance, highlighting how natural processes can be used to restore ecosystem balance. At the same time, the article acknowledges technological tools like biochar integration and wastewater treatment upgrades, giving the project credibility and practicality. Overall, the piece is informative and successfully frames eutrophication as a systemic issue that requires natural interventions rather than technical fixes.

From an eco-centric perspective, the SEACURE project is a intriguing example of working with natural systems instead of against them. I strongly support its focus on soil health, wetlands, and biological nutrient removal, as these solutions not only reduce pollution but also improve biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. However, my view also includes a technocentric dimension. I think for these solutions to be truly effective, they must be supported by strong monitoring systems, policy enforcement, and efficient technology. "Precision agriculture", for example, should be paired with digital nutrient tracking and programs to ensure efficiency. A key limitation is that many of these solutions depend on long-term commitment from farmers, governments, and agencies. To address this, a potential solution would be nutrient budgeting and water quality sensors. This eco-technocentric approach would preserve the ecological integrity of Mediterranean systems while using technology to ensure efficiency.

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This Project Is Tackling Eutrophication in the Mediterranean Sea

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The SEACURE project aims to tackle eutrophication, or nutrient pollution, in the soil-river-sea system across the Mediterranean Sea.

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Article #5: New USDA program funds regenerative conservation practices

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Article #5: New USDA program funds regenerative conservation practices

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The group Rural Investment to Protect our Environment (RIPE) is applauding USDA’s decision to provide $700 million for the new Regenerative Pilot Program to help farmers improve soil health and water quality, and boost long-term productivity. RIPE has been seeking more compensation for producers’ conservation activities for nearly a decade. RIPE is an organization that advocates for increased funding for farmer conservation efforts. They released a detailed analysis quantifying the public benefits from the adoption of regenerative climate-smart agricultural practices. USDA is investigating the connections between regenerative agriculture and public health. They say that protecting and improving the health of the soil is critical for the future viability of the farmland, and the future success of American farmers. With this program, the USDA wants to protect the topsoil from unnecessary erosion and improve soil health and land stewardship. The press release said the new pilot program will deliver an outcome-based approach to conservation that empowers producers to plan and implement whole-farm regenerative practices through a single application.

From an environmental viewpoint, the USDA's $700 million donation was very beneficial to the farmers who needed to improve their soil health and water quality. Without this donation, these farmers would be struggling to produce crops and generate income. In my opinion, farmers really benefit from this donation because it also helps to investigate the soil that they are using, which will benefit their crops and economies in the long run.

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New federal initiative provides farmers funding for soil health practices and conservation through streamlined application process.

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Article #5: Top 5 Sustainable Agricultural Innovations in 2025

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Article #5: Top 5 Sustainable Agricultural Innovations in 2025

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The article “Top 5 Sustainable Agricultural Innovations in 2025” by Ankit Singh is about how technology is reshaping water farming due to discoveries about climate change, resources, and security. It provides an informative overview and highlights five innovations invented to address these issues. One innovation is an electric crop-spraying drone, biodegradable Packaging, AI-powered robot harvesting, green hydrogen production from Farm waste, and affordable IoT sensor networks for small farms. The author explains the pros of each Innovation and how it works. It also gives examples of companies that are actually using these inventions. The article showed statistics allowing us to understand the real impact of these technologies. The article also emphasizes how there are various environmental benefits and improved productivity.

In my opinion, this piece demonstrates how sustainability and innovation in agriculture are teaming up to acknowledge Environmental issues. In my opinion, this article does a good job of showing the importance of sustainable agriculture and how these Innovations reduce chemical use, use cleaner energy, and overall improve efficiency. The article also emphasizes how the technology is accessible and isn't just limited to large corporations; however, it does say that it is hard to bring these various inventions to developing countries due to cost barriers and limited training. ultimately this article effectively introduces a future farming in many ways, we are effectively trying to reduce waste, while also meeting the rising food demands without hurting our planet.

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Top 5 Sustainable Agricultural Innovations in 2025

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Unveiling five pivotal technologies in sustainable agriculture, this article explores advancements that enhance productivity while preserving natural resources.

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Article #5: Five years of oxen grazing enhances soil carbon and structure in alpine vineyards

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Article #5: Five years of oxen grazing enhances soil carbon and structure in alpine vineyards

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As our class has discussed with rice-duck farming, combining livestock and agriculture is more sustainable than conventional farming methods. This recent study by Ilania et. al. shows that the combination of oxen grazing and viticulture (vineyards) in the South Tyrol region of Italy was successful, with "no evident negative effects." Specifically, they note that carbon sequestration (measured by the amount of carbon in the soil) greatly increased, as did general soil health. This study is significant because, while smaller animals have been investigated for studies like this, very little research has been done on animals as large as oxen. The results specifically regarding the use of cattle were also positive, as the oxen did not trample crops or compress the soil. The researchers note that hybrid livestock-agriculture systems enjoyed widespread use "until the 20th century."

I think that systems like these are incredible, and the possibility that they can be used with larger livestock is very promising. However, the likelihood that they will be used on a wide scale seems low to me, as the agricultural multinationals that control much of the world's agriculture are interested in profit, not sustainability. Generally, this translates to them being more interested in yield in the short term than in the long term. However, small and family farmers could use this strategy, because it would be both feasible (it's how agriculture operated for millennia) and advantageous. Perhaps, if these farms use these techniques, they could attain higher yields, and as a result begin to take a little bit of power away from agriculture multinationals by eliminating their food monopoly.

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Five years of oxen grazing enhances soil carbon and structure in alpine vineyards - Scientific Reports

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Integrating livestock with crop farming can greatly enhance agricultural sustainability and accelerate the agroecological transition. This study investigated the five-year effects of oxen grazing in a vineyard in South-Tyrol (Italy). Grazing occurred from autumn to spring over five consecutive years at a density of 5–7 oxen ha− 1. An adjacent site remained ungrazed. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for soil carbon pools (elemental analyzer), compaction (bulk density), soil structure (micro–water-stable aggregates, µWSA < 63 μm; macro-water-stable-aggregates, MWSA < 250 μm), plant available elements (ICP-MS), total microbial biomass (fumigation and extraction) and microbial abundance (qPCR). The results showed that, despite both fields being pedogenically similar, oxen grazing improved soil C. Oxen grazing increased total organic carbon (+ 14%), total nitrogen (+ 12%), carbon/nitrogen ratio (+ 2%), dissolved organic carbon (+ 11%) and dissolved carbon (+ 11%). Available elements and soil bulk density did not change, while soil structure even improved as evidenced by the increase of µWSA (+ 14%) in the oxen-grazed site. This observation is supported by the increase in bacterial abundance (+ 1%) as they are typically present in µWSA, while MWSA and fungal abundance together with microbial biomass remained stable across the two sites. Our findings highlight the potential of combining viticulture with pasture as a strategy to enhance soil health and C, with no evident negative effects. Strengthening the integration and cooperation between viticulture and livestock farming could play a key role in advancing sustainable agriculture for the agroecological transition.

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Article 5: Understanding why farmers adopt soil conservation tillage

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Article 5: Understanding why farmers adopt soil conservation tillage

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Today, the main challenge of agriculture is to sustainably produce enough food and fiber for a growing population without harming the environment. Recent practices have been unsustainable towards soil which worsens soil erosion and soil degradation. Conservation tillage is one of the most widely adopted soil conservation methods which involves the planting of crops directly in the soil with little preparation. This method covers at least 30% of the soil surface with crop residue after planting. The planting takes place in undisturbed soil and avoids mechanical procedures. Fertilizer is injected with the seeds into the soil without the need to fertilize the whole field causing little disturbance. Conservation tillage is a popular method because the machinery needed is widely available, and the techniques are well known.

Something interesting this article stated is how Conservation tillage provides social benefits. Although it is nice to see the change this technique can bring to the enviorment, it is different and helpful to see how us as humans will be changed by something. For example it enhances public health and quality of life through cleaner air and water, reduces the need for costly sediment removal, and helps stop climate change through reduced carbon emissions. As for the community, it supports society by improving wildlife habitats, creates safer and quieter working environments, and fulfills the goal of long term food security for future generations. Besides the social benefits, this method is impactful in changing other environmental concerns.

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Article #5: U.S. Department of Agriculture unveils $700 million for regenerative agriculture  

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Article #5: U.S. Department of Agriculture unveils $700 million for regenerative agriculture  

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On December 10, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the launch of a $700 million program to support regenerative agriculture practices across the country. The program, called “The Regenerative Agriculture Pilot Program”, is meant to enhance the sustainability of American agriculture in the future while improving the production of healthy/nutritious food. This will be done by increasing water efficiency and supporting carbon sequestration through cover cropping, crop rotation, reduced tillage, rotational grazing and integrating livestock. Not only is this environmentally beneficial, it will also make farm systems more resilient.

Often, environmental and economic perspectives are at odds, causing tension. However, this article is an example of a short-term investment creating both environmental and economic benefits long-term. Furthermore, this initiative is beneficial to human health, as agriculture will become more focused on nutritious food according to the article. It’s great to see an example of political change being enacted to protect the environment, particularly as it relates to agriculture (a fundamentally important aspect of humanity). This change occurred less than two months ago, but I look forward to seeing the effects of this program down the line.

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Key Takeaways

On December 10, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the launch of a $700 million pilot program to support regenerative agriculture practices across the country. The Regenerative Agriculture Pilot Program seeks to enhance long-term agricultural sustainability, strengthen conservation outcomes and improve the production of healthy, nutritious food through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

What is regenerative agriculture?

Regenerative agriculture focuses on a holistic approach to farming that emphasizes improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, increasing water efficiency and supporting carbon sequestration. These practices - such as cover cropping, crop rotation, reduced tillage, rotational grazing and integrating livestock - aim to make farm systems more resilient while reducing inputs like fertilizer and pesticides and restoring degraded land. Regenerative farming also supports broader ecosystem and community benefits, including promoting biodiversity, improving the quality and nutrient density of agricultural products and strengthening rural economies.

How will this be implemented?

USDA's Regenerative Agriculture Pilot Program will be delivered through investing $700 million to two existing Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs:

$400 million for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to provide financial and technical assistance for on-farm regenerative agriculture practices

$300 million for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to reward producers who maintain or expand conservation efforts on working lands

Farmers participating in the initiative will complete whole-farm assessments and develop regenerative conservation plans that include at least one core soil health or resource management practice. Participants will also conduct soil health testing to measure progress over the life of the contract.

How does this impact counties?

Counties recognize their vital role in supporting agricultural production, land stewardship and community health. NACo values the work of USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the technical expertise its field offices provide to help counties address local conservation priorities. NACo also supports federal incentives that encourage the best practices to protect natural resources and promote environmental resilience.

NACo will continue to monitor USDA's implementation of the Regenerative Agriculture Initiative and share updates as additional program details become available.

View USDA Press Release New USDA Regenerative Agriculture Pilot Program Homepage

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U.S. Department of Agriculture unveils $700 million for regenerative agriculture

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On December 10, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the launch of a $700 million pilot program to support regenerative agriculture practices across the country.

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The article explains a new water purification technology created by engineers at the University of Michigan and Rice University that helps turn seawater into safe drinking water. The main problem the technology solves is removing boron, a natural element found in seawater. While boron is harmless in small amounts, too much of it is unsafe for people to drink and can damage crops. Most desalination plants use reverse osmosis to remove salt, but this process does not remove much boron because boron does not carry an electrical charge. To fix this, plants usually add chemicals to change boron’s charge, then filter it again, which costs more money and uses more energy. The new technology replaces these chemical steps with carbon cloth electrodes. These electrodes use electricity to change the water’s pH, which gives boron a charge so it can be captured. Once removed, the water returns to a neutral state and is safe to drink. This method lowers energy use, reduces chemical waste, and can cut desalination costs by up to 15%. As freshwater supplies continue to shrink worldwide, this technology could help provide cleaner, cheaper drinking water for many communities.

The solution offered in the article is using carbon cloth electrodes instead of adding large amounts of chemicals during desalination. This makes the process cheaper, cleaner, and better for the environment. One important benefit is that the same system could be adjusted to remove other harmful substances, like arsenic, from water. A possible next step would be using this technology in large coastal desalination plants as well as in smaller systems for areas with limited clean water. Governments and water companies could also combine this technology with renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to make desalination even more sustainable. Another idea is using it in emergency situations, like natural disasters, where quick access to clean water is needed. In my opinion, this technology is a smart and realistic way to help solve the growing global water crisis. Instead of only focusing on saving freshwater, it improves how we use seawater, which is widely available. If this system continues to be developed and used worldwide, it could make clean drinking water more affordable and accessible for millions of people.

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New water purification technology helps turn seawater into drinking water without tons of chemicals

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Water desalination plants could replace expensive chemicals with new carbon cloth electrodes that remove boron from seawater, an important step of turning seawater into safe drinking water.

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Article 3: Zoos & Aquariums’ Role in Saving Endangered Species

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Article 3: Zoos & Aquariums’ Role in Saving Endangered Species

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This article is about zoos and aquariums' role in protecting endangered species, and specifically how they use breeding programs to do so. These programs have been shown to increase animal populations while also preserving genetic diversity, which is important to maintaining healthy and resilient species. With vertebrate populations having declined drastically since 1970, zoos serve as a protection effort for species like red wolves. The article focuses in on the carefulness of genetic planning, and how they have to complete measures like genetic testing, and this is important because it’s a great way to prevent inbreeding while also improving survival chances. It also warns us about many challenges that were gone through, but ethical concerns about captivity and difficulties with reintroducing animals into the wild stood out to me the most, because of the deep layers to it. Beyond breeding, zoos contribute through education and by providing safe havens during natural disasters. I also saw how this article emphasized future innovations like advanced genetic technologies using AI and global cooperation to strengthen conservation efforts.

Personally, I thought the article had a balanced perspective on the role of zoos in conservation, and the importance of not portraying zoos as a perfect solution was a great contribution to the article, as it recognized both their benefits and limitations. The article emphasized genetic diversity and long-term planning, showing that conservation is also a complex scientific responsibility, which also made me think that intentional breeding was interesting because of how advanced scientific technology can be. I also found the discussion of education and public awareness important, since inspiring people to care about endangered species is key to making people want change; however, the article elaborates that breeding programs alone are not enough without protecting natural habitats. Overall, it does a good job persuading its readers that zoos are an essential part of a collaborative effort to prevent extinction.

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Zoos & Aquariums’ Role in Saving Endangered Species - Endangered Species Coalition

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Article by: Jane Marsh, Editor-in-Chief of Environment.co _ The growing concern for endangered species has spotlighted zoos as crucial players in wildlife conservation. Their breeding programs increase populations of endangered species and focus on preserving genetic diversity and reintroducing animals…

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Article #4 - “Troubled waters? The future of drinking water in the U.S.”

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Article #4 - “Troubled waters? The future of drinking water in the U.S.”

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This article explores how tap water is far more complicated than most people realize. Through Nicole Deziel’s responses, the article shows how decisions about drinking water often involve benefits against risks. The discussion of fluoride stood out to me because it challenges the assumption that public health solutions are always straightforward. While fluoride has clear dental benefits, the article explains how new research has raised concerns about overexposure, especially for children. The section on PFAS was especially alarming, as it revealed how chemicals designed for convenience have become nearly impossible to remove from our environment. By also connecting water safety to climate change, The article emphasizes that environmental issues do not exist by themselves, but are connected to public health and policy

Reading this article made me see how environmental problems are often created by prioritizing short-term convenience over long-term consequences. While individual actions like using water filters can help, the article made it clear that these solutions place responsibility on individuals rather than on corporations and policymakers who allow contamination.

From my viewpoint, real change needs to come from stricter regulations, particularly regarding PFAS, which should not be allowed in products that eventually end up in our water. When people distrust science, environmental protections like water protection are more likely to be taken away. Clean drinking water should not depend on affordability, but on protecting water through regulation.

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Troubled waters? The future of drinking water in the U.S.

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From fluoride to “forever chemicals,” drinking water has been in the spotlight this year. In a Q&A, Yale epidemiologist Nicole Deziel discusses the water we drink today — and what’s on tap for the future.

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Article 4: Human water demand can imperil California’s endangered species

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Article 4: Human water demand can imperil California’s endangered species

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This article talks about how rivers in Southern California have been altered by humans and how streams accidentally harm aquatic ecosystems rather than helping them. In an area that has historically relied on significant seasonal variance, researchers discovered that irrigation canals and wastewater treatment facilities produce unnaturally stable, year-round water availability. The natural cycles that support native riparian forests are disturbed by this additional water, even while it initially encourages faster forest development and brighter vegetation. These ecosystems rely on low summer flows to enable seedlings to establish and outcompete invading species, and high spring flows to distribute seeds. Aging trees predominate in forests with no younger replacements when water levels stay constant, a situation referred to as "living dead" ecosystems, but overall the study emphasizes how California's riparian forests are becoming more vulnerable due to changing flow patterns and groundwater depletion.

I found the article fascinating because it challenges the common assumption that more water always benefits ecosystems, particularly in dry regions. It was also shocking to see that human activity may make forests seem healthier in the short term while risking their long-term existence. The term "living dead" ecosystems was important because it made it evident how environmental harm might go unnoticed beneath perceived vegetation. It began to make me think about how well-meaning ideas that disregard how ecosystems are supposed to work can have unexpected repercussions.

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Human water demand can imperil California’s endangered species - The Wildlife Society

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In Southern California, where scarce water resources are carefully managed, it would seem like wildlife would benefit when more water flowed in streams and rivers. But that’s not what researchers…

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Water Pollution Fight in Iowa Hits Snag as EPA Removes Rivers from 'Impaired' List 

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Water Pollution Fight in Iowa Hits Snag as EPA Removes Rivers from 'Impaired' List 

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This article highlights the concerns over the nitrate pollution in Iowa's rivers and the EPA's recent reversal on listing the seven river segments as "impaired." Originally added to address high nitrate levels from industrial agriculture, including hog farms, fertilizer runoff, and tile drainage, the designation would have required cleanup plans under the Clean Water Act. This reversal means stretches of the Cedar, Des Moines, Iowa, Raccoon, and South Skunk rivers are no longer considered polluted, reducing federal oversight and delaying potential mitigation efforts. High nitrates in drinking water pose serious health risks, including “blue baby syndrome” and links to cancer and thyroid disease. Citizen testers and water utilities report frequent nitrate exceedances, however most of the drinking water providers in Iowa lack nitrate treatment systems. Advocates like Linda Fitzgerald fear that delisting these rivers undermines water protection, slows pollution reduction, and fails to hold industrial agriculture accountable, even as water quality problems continue to threaten communities, ecosystems, and public health in the state.

In my opinion, the EPA’s decision to remove seven Iowa river segments from the impaired waters list is a bad especially for the public health and environmental protection. Nitrate pollution from industrial agriculture is a serious problem, affecting the drinking water and causing many health risks including “blue baby syndrome” and possibly cancer. Delisting these rivers reduces the accountability for cleanup and sends the wrong message that the problem is solved, while it technically is not. The stronger oversight and stricter pollution controls are needed for this issue, along with the investment in water treatment for all communities. Protecting Iowa’s rivers is essential for both people’s health and the environment.

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When the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency added seven Iowa river segments to the state's impaired waters list last year, Linda Fitzgerald thought it would be a meaningful step toward addressing water pollution. The self-described "fifth-generation river rat" has seen local waterways become more polluted and the proliferation of factory farms in the state. "It really looked like we were getting somewhere," Fitzgerald, who is also a member of Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, tells Sentient. But for Fitzgerald and other Iowa clean water advocates, that progress was upended July 11.

The EPA rescinded its November 2024 order to add the seven river segments, which means stretches of the Cedar, Des Moines, Iowa, Raccoon and South Skunk rivers in Iowa will no longer be classified as "impaired." In effect, these rivers are no longer treated as exceeding the EPA's standard for nitrate levels in groundwater. The decision removes the requirement for cleanup plans under the Clean Water Act and reduces federal scrutiny of these Iowa waters.

Under the Clean Water Act, states must update and submit a list of "impaired" rivers, streams and lakes that are polluted or at risk to the EPA every two years. Once a water body is added to the list, it remains there until the EPA approves the state's plan to reduce pollution. Even after that cleanup plan is in place and the water is no longer considered impaired, the state continues to track it until the water body is fully restored.

The EPA's reversal on adding the seven Iowa river segments comes after Central Iowa Water Works, a regional collective of water utilities, issued a first-ever lawn watering ban, in response to high levels of nitrates in the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers, two key water sources for central Iowa. The restrictions were lifted on August 15.

High nitrate concentrations are driven in part by agriculture in Iowa, where livestock operations produce 109 billion pounds of manure each year. Fertilizer runoff from both synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and livestock manure washes excess nitrogen into rivers, streams and groundwater.

Elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers and livestock manure also contribute to harmful algae blooms, especially in spring and summer, and threaten wildlife. Between 2013 and 2023, manure spills from factory farms in the state killed nearly two million fish.

Fitzgerald had hoped that designating these rivers as impaired would push the state to acknowledge that nitrate pollution in Iowa's waters comes largely from industrial agriculture - waste from hog farms, excessive fertilizer use and widespread tile drainage, which refer to a network of underground engineering mechanisms that remove excess water, making Iowa soils especially fertile. "Just admitting that the source is ag and having to come up with a more effective reduction strategy would be a big win," she later told Sentient in an email.

In 2024, Iowa's Department of Natural Resources submitted a list that included 577 water bodies, with 746 impairments, based on data from 2020 to 2022, excluding the seven river segments.

At the time, environmental groups argued the list was not representative of the full scope of water pollution in Iowa, especially since it was based on data from drought years with unusually low nitrate levels. In its November 2024 decision - the one it later reversed - the EPA said nitrate concentrations in the seven water sources exceeded safe drinking water standards and added them to the list.

But in a July 11 letter to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, James Macy, who heads EPA Region 7 - which covers much of the Midwest - wrote that the agency was reversing its earlier decision to review the new information provided by the DNR. Macy wrote that "the EPA is rescinding its partial disapproval and identification of the referenced seven waters so that it can further evaluate this rationale and reconsider its decision."

Iowa Environment Council general counsel Michael Schmidt tells Sentient that delisting could undermine efforts to clean up these waterways, especially amid funding cuts for water monitoring. "Removing them from the impaired waters list suggests we don't need to worry about them because they're meeting the standards and everything is fine," he says.

The rollback did not surprise Fitzgerald, but it did leave her disappointed, "especially having felt like maybe we made an impact and maybe something good was going to come out of it."

Nitrate Pollution Threatens Water and Health

High levels of nitrate in drinking water can be dangerous. Consuming excessive nitrates can cause methemoglobinemia - or " blue baby syndrome" - which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, especially in infants. Research has also linked nitrates in drinking water to a higher risk of other conditions, including thyroid disease and cancer.

Iowa has the fastest-growing rate of new cancers in the country and the second-highest incidence rate after Kentucky, according to a 2024 report by the Iowa Cancer Registry. The report highlighted alcohol and binge drinking as cancer risks, but did not mention agriculture as a potential contributing factor.

Fitzgerald says cancer is so widespread, that it would be hard to find anyone in Iowa who has not been affected by cancer or Parkinson's, either personally or through a family member. Fitzgerald herself was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer in her early 30s, and more recently with a bone marrow abnormality.

EPA's legal limit for nitrate in drinking water is 10 milligrams per liter. Fitzgerald, who conducts citizen water testing in Cedar River, says she often finds nitrate levels at or above the EPA limit, especially in areas where farmlands drain or after a heavy rain. Citizen testing does have limits: handheld kits and strips are less precise than laboratory methods, and factors like water flow or temperature can affect readings.

While Des Moines Water Works operates one of the world's largest nitrate removal facilities, 96 percent of Iowa's drinking water providers lack any treatment system to remove nitrate, according to the Iowa Environmental Council.

Advocates Call for 'Complete Overhaul' of Agencies

Removing Iowa waters from the impaired list is "misguided," Schmidt said in a press release, adding that the decision erodes public trust in agencies meant to protect clean water. In an interview with Sentient, Schmidt says the state should enforce reduced fertilizer use and improve manure application to address nitrate pollution in Iowa's waters.

Fitzgerald would like to see a bigger change. "Both of those organizations just need to have a complete overhaul before they can actually be effective. One of the things they might focus on is trying to get the polluters to pay for their pollution," she says. Still, she's not optimistic at the moment. "With those regulators in charge, it's not going to happen."

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Water Pollution Fight in Iowa Hits a Snag as EPA Removes Rivers from 'Impaired' List

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Iowa clean water advocates criticized the EPA's move to reverse a decision adding seven Iowa river segments to the state's impaired waters list.

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Article Review #4: How Many Blue Whales Are Left? The Species Nearing Extinction

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Article Review #4: How Many Blue Whales Are Left? The Species Nearing Extinction

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This article describes how the blue whale has become an endangered species. This is due to vessel strikes, whaling, and ocean noise. Ocean noise is when noise pollution from humans interferes with the whales' communication. It also mentions how the ecosystem would be affected if the blue whale were to go extinct. The krill they consume would multiply and cause a decrease in the phytoplankton and algae they eat. Some solutions were offered. The article explains how commercial whaling is now banned, they are working to prevent vessel strikes, and they are attempting to remove fishing gear and nets.

In my opinion, these solutions are a good start and I was happy to see that the ban on whaling was helping the blue whale population recover by 7% per year. I also found it interesting how blue whales absorb lots of our carbon and help regulate our climate. I think it is smart to implement speed restrictions on vessels to prevent strikes and to use drones to monitor whale migration.

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The Blue Whale is close to extinction. How many are left? | FairPlanet

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What makes the blue whale an endangered species, and how will the population of the world’s largest animal rebound?

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Article #4:Kent water failure was foreseen and could have been stopped, regulator says

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Article #4:Kent water failure was foreseen and could have been stopped, regulator says

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The Guardian’s Kent water article reports on a major water treatment failure in Tunbridge Wells that left around 24,000 households without safe drinking water for nearly two weeks. A regulator later concluded that the incident was foreseeable and could likely have been prevented if known risks had been addressed earlier. The failure was linked to aging infrastructure, insufficient testing, and delayed upgrades. While a boil-water notice was eventually issued, critics argue that regulatory and operational weaknesses limited faster intervention. The incident has reignited concerns about the reliability of the UK’s water systems and the consequences of underinvestment in essential public infrastructure.

In my view, the Kent water failure highlights a serious systemic problem rather than an isolated mistake. When regulators acknowledge that a crisis was foreseeable, it suggests that warnings are not being taken seriously enough. Access to clean water is a basic necessity, and failures like this undermine public trust in both water companies and oversight bodies. Aging infrastructure should not be an excuse when the risks are well known. This incident should serve as a wake-up call for stronger regulation, clearer accountability, and sustained investment, because waiting until systems fail puts public health and confidence at unnecessary risk.

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Kent water failure was foreseen and could have been stopped, regulator says

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Problem at water treatment centre left 24,000 Tunbridge Wells homes without drinking water for two weeks

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Article #4: Amidst Many Californians Experiencing the Effects From the Tijuana River, What Will California Do About It?

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Article #4: Amidst Many Californians Experiencing the Effects From the Tijuana River, What Will California Do About It?

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There have been frequent instances of pollution from the Tijuana River affecting California. Sewage spills have been occurring as early as the 2000s. However, there is now a full-fledged environmental crisis in San Diego County due to Tijuana River sewage contamination. The federal government has pledged to place “two-thirds of a billion to clean it up”. However, local lawmakers are encouraging the California government to do more about the pollution problem. One state senator stated that this is an “‘international environmental disaster’". Local leaders and scientists convened to discuss why this environmental disaster happened. The main suspects are failed infrastructure, industrial waste, and years of neglect. Last year, the governor of California declined to declare a state of emergency. The impacts of pollution on the San Diego coastlines threaten marine life, taint the air and water in the area, and harm humans. Although this is a major environmental disaster, there are solutions. The United States government repaired and expanded the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant's capacity by 10 million gallons. The Mexican government also repaired one of its water treatment plants, which reduces the flow of sewage into the ocean.

I was surprised to hear about this environmental disaster, as there isn’t enough news coverage of it. The article addresses several issues, such as the various perspectives on how they are handling this disaster. One of the quotes gathered in the article states that this may be the largest environmental disaster in the United States currently. With the inclusion of how the state government of California is handling this, I’m surprised. The California government is displaying gross negligence in handling this disaster. San Diego County is considered a biodiversity hotspot. Therefore, a state of emergency should have been declared. Not only are the people in the affected areas at risk, but marine life is also affected. This article demonstrates to me that governmental systems aren’t responsive to environmental issues and disasters until it’s too late. The people should reconsider who they are putting into office.

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The U.S. is committed to cleaning up Tijuana River pollution. Will California follow through?

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As Tijuana River sewage has contaminated neighborhoods, the federal government has pledged two-thirds of a billion to clean it up. Will California follow?