Read the full story in The Revelator.
Returning prescribed fire to California forests is the focus of a new climate-adaptation plan from the Karuk Tribe, but the federal government will need to play big role.
Month: August 2019
Bad Blooms: Researchers review environmental conditions leading to harmful algae blooms
Read the full story from Utah State University.
When there is a combination of population increase, wastewater discharge, agricultural fertilization, and climate change, the cocktail is detrimental to humans and animals. This harmful cocktail produces harmful algal blooms, and many of these are toxic to humans and wildlife.
Nordstrom Commits to G7 Fashion Pact and Launches Sustainable Style Category
Read the full story in Elle.
The fashion industry has had a long history of using unethical practices to produce clothing, but thanks to the G7 Fashion Pact, history will (hopefully) no longer repeat itself. A coalition made up of 32 global luxury retailers brought together by French President Emmanuel Macron and representing around 150 brands have pledged to fight the global climate crisis. As part of the initiative, Nordstrom has launched a new Sustainable Style online shopping category.
Cleaning pollutants from water with pollen and spores — without the ‘achoo!’
Read the full story from the American Chemical Society.
In addition to their role in plant fertilization and reproduction, pollens and spores have another, hidden talent: With a simple treatment, these cheap, abundant and renewable grains can be converted into tiny sponge-like particles that can be used to grab onto pollutants and remove them from water, scientists report. Even better, these treated particles don’t trigger allergies.
Flame retardants — from plants
Read the full story from the American Chemical Society.
Flame retardants are present in thousands of everyday items, from clothing to furniture to electronics. Although these substances can help prevent fire-related injuries and deaths, they could have harmful effects on human health and the environment. Today, scientists report potentially less toxic, biodegradable flame retardants from an unlikely source: plants.
Wild ground-nesting bees might be exposed to lethal levels of neonics in soil
Read the full story from the University of Guelph.
In a first-ever study investigating the risk of neonicotinoid insecticides to ground-nesting bees, University of Guelph researchers have discovered hoary squash bees are being exposed to lethal levels of the chemicals in the soil.
New rider data shows how public transit reduces greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions
Read the full story from the University of Utah.
Researchers used tap-on tap-off rider data to quantify the emissions saved by buses and commuter rail lines, and also project how much additional emissions could be saved by upgrading the bus and rail fleet.
Look out food deserts: here come the food forests
Read the full story in Ensia.
As cities build up green spaces, developers are increasingly factoring in fruit and nut trees, berry bushes and more as a way to boost nutrition while enhancing aesthetics
Fake climate science videos have millions of views on YouTube. Here’s what scientists can do about it.
Read the full story at Ensia.
You probably know you can’t believe everything you see on the Internet. But you may still be surprised to find how easily fake science makes its way through YouTube and other social media sites — and how intentionally it’s being promoted.
A new study from a researcher at Aachen University in Germany about the prevalence of inaccurate climate science and conspiracy theories on YouTube illustrates the grim reality, but also a way to fix it.
EPA to Implement Emissions Guidelines for MSW Landfills
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a plan to implement the emissions guidelines and compliance times for municipal solid waste landfills (MSW Landfills EG) for existing MSW landfills where state plans or tribal plans are not in effect, as reported in the Federal Register.
This proposed plan includes the same elements as required for a state plan: Identification of legal authority and mechanisms for implementation; inventory of designated facilities; emissions inventory; emission limits; compliance schedules; a process for the EPA or state review of design plans for site-specific gas collection and control systems; testing, monitoring, reporting and recordkeeping requirements; public hearing requirements; and progress reporting requirements. Additionally, this action summarizes implementation and delegation of authority of the MSW Landfills Federal Plan.
Comments must be received on or before October 7. EPA will hold a public hearing on September 6 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET in Research Triangle Park, N.C.
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