Earth

Earth

A bold plan to save the planet turns carbon dioxide into stone

Scientists hope that capturing carbon dioxide this way will limit both further warming of our planet and an escalation of extreme weather events.

Environment

We all unknowingly eat plastic, which may host toxic pollutants

In the environment, plastics attract all types of toxic chemicals. If ingested, new data show, chemicals on those plastic bits may harm the gut.

Climate

UN report calls for two-pronged approach to slow climate impacts

The latest IPCC climate change report underscores an urgent need for action to avoid the worst consequences of global warming.

Materials Science

A disinfectant made from sawdust knocks out deadly microbes

It’s made by pressure-cooking sawdust and water, is cheap and easy to make — and could lead to greener cleaning products than chemicals used today.

Earth

The Alps’ Matterhorn shows how much even big mountains sway

Such mountain sway data can help planners map high-risk zones for peaks, bridges or any large structures.

Tech

Teen inventors say: There’s got to be a better way

Finalists in the 2022 Regeneron Science Talent Search are revamping prostheses, earthquake safety systems and air travel.

Environment

Satellites find big climate threats — ultra-emitters of methane

Eyes in the sky show many of the worst methane emitters are in countries that produce a lot of oil and gas, such as Russia and the United States.

Earth

Let’s learn about Earth’s secret stash of underground water

Groundwater provides drinking water to billions of people and is used to water crops worldwide.

Animals

Orcas can take down the largest animal on the planet

For the first time, scientists observed that orcas can kill blue whales by using the same hunting techniques that have worked on other large whales.

Chemistry

New process can transform urban CO₂ pollution into a resource

Researchers have developed a liquid metal that breaks down carbon dioxide in the air, converting it from a climate threat into a valuable raw material.

Tech

These flying robots protect endangered wildlife

Flying drones make conservation work much easier. Around the world, drones and artificial intelligence help scientists study or protect endangered animals.

Plants

More than 9,000 tree species may be waiting to be discovered

Scientists estimated how many tree species are on Earth, an important step for forest conservation and protecting biodiversity.