People have been engineering river deltas for millennia, but new research identifies the optimal placement for diversions that benefit both local communities and the environment—and it might be close to a city.
News
Satellites Allow Scientists to Dive into Milky Seas
Satellites may finally be able to report the fleeting phenomena of milky seas in near-real time, allowing researchers to potentially study an ocean mystery that has survived more than 2 centuries.
Longer Days Likely Boosted Earth’s Early Oxygen
Microbial mats in a Lake Huron sinkhole, combined with modeling work, suggest that the changing length of Earth’s day could have played a key role in oxygenating the atmosphere.
How the “Best Accidental Climate Treaty” Stopped Runaway Climate Change
The Montreal Protocol halted the destruction of the ozone layer. In the process, it saved one of Earth’s most important carbon sinks.
Heat Pumps Can Lower Home Emissions, but Not Everywhere
A new study shows that in the right places, heat pumps can help homeowners lower greenhouse gas emissions, save on heating and cooling costs, and promote public health.
Forecast: 8 Million Energy Jobs Created by Meeting Paris Agreement
Quickly switching to renewables will create 5 million more jobs by 2050 than sticking to fossil fuels will, according to projections.
Lake Erie Sediments: All Dredged Up with Nowhere to Grow
Agriculture is a key contributor to the algae mats that plague Lake Erie. With so many fertilizers entering the lake, could sediment from the lake floor be used to grow crops instead?
Megaripples on Mars—How to Name Wind-Shaped Features on the Red Planet
New research suggests a more settled terminology for Martian aeolian landforms based on size and geomorphology.
How Can Wristbands Monitor Pollution, PAHs, and Prenatal Care?
Silicone wristbands can help monitor pregnant women’s exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Tracking these toxic chemicals, produced by combustion, could improve public health outcomes.
Tracking Sustainability Goals with Creative Data Sources
Nontraditional sources of data could assist in charting the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, helping design appropriate policies and investments to improve the state of the environment.