New source of greenhouse gas: scientific discoveries and environmental consequences
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New source of greenhouse gas: scientific discoveries and environmental consequences

Researchers at Caltech have made a significant discovery: They have discovered a new type of enzyme that allows a variety of bacteria utilizing nitrates for respiration when oxygen levels are low.

The scale of nitrous oxide production and its impact on agriculture and the environment

This process leads to the formation of nitrous oxide (N₂O), a powerful greenhouse gas that has the third largest impact on the climate following carbon dioxide and methane. Unlike carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide does not stay in the atmosphere for long,so measures to reduce its emissions can produce quick results. For example, Careful use of fertilizers can lower nitrous oxide emissions and save farmers money. It is now clear that the number of bacteria producing nitrous oxide significantly exceeds previous estimates,” says Professor Woody Fisher.

Understanding the sources of this gas assists in making better-informed decisions. Farmers will be able to take into account the microbial communities in the soil to use fertilizers more efficiently.

The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, was led by Ranjani Murali and James Hemp. The team examined the genome sequences of tens of thousands of microbes and identified many reductases that encode proteins for using nitric oxide in respiration. This process occurs in environments ranging from wetlands to alpine soils where oxygen levels are low.

The discovery changes the understanding of the development of metabolic pathways in microbes. This suggests that the proteins responsible for nitrate respiration evolved from those that used oxygen for respiration about two billion years ago.

“Using automated metabolomic analysis without experimental validation can lead to erroneous conclusions,” cautions James Hemp. This research greatly advances our understanding of enzymes involved in microbiological processes.

The study’s co-authors also included scientists who previously held graduate studies and teaching positions at the California Institute of Technology, the University of Nevada, the University of Illinois, and Montana State University.

The impact of greenhouse gases on agriculture: challenges and adaptation to climate change

This fact Is crucial due to the substantial influence of greenhouse gases on agriculture, primarily through changes in climatic conditions and environmental parameters:

1.  Climate Change: Rising concentrations of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide are causing alterations in climate conditions. This can result in higher temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and an increase in extreme weather events such as droughts and floods.. These changes can significantly impact crop growth, yield and distribution of planted areas.

2. Plant resistance: Increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can lower crop resistance to diseases, pests, and stress conditions. This can lead to a decrease in yield and product quality.

3. Water resources: Changes in precipitation and temperature also affect the availability and quality of water for agriculture. Uneven distribution of precipitation can lead to instability in water supplies, which is critical for agriculture and livestock production.

4. Biodiversity and ecosystems: Climate change is affecting biodiversity and the health of ecosystems that underpin agricultural production. Declining biodiversity and ecosystem degradation can reduce the potential for sustainable agriculture and threaten food security.

All these factors highlight the necessity to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and adapt agriculture to changing climate conditions to ensure sustainable development and food security.

Saving tigers: conservationist initiatives
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Saving tigers: conservationist initiatives

Saving tigers is one of the key goals of conservationists around the world. These majestic, endangered predators require coordinated efforts to protect and conserve them. A variety of initiatives aimed at protecting tigers include protecting their natural habitats, combating poaching and working with local communities.

Tigers on the verge of extinction:global conservation efforts

More than 100,000 tigers lived on Earth 100 years ago, but today their numbers have fallen to less than 3,500. Despite the fact that tigers are officially recognized as an endangered species and are protected by law around the world, they continue to be victims of poachers. Most often, tigers killed by poachers are sold in China. There, their body parts and organs are used to make traditional medicine and as aphrodisiacs.

Over the past ten years, according to information from the World Wildlife Fund, more than 1,000 tigers have been killed. Every year, 150 representatives of this species die worldwide. India, which is now home to more than half of all tigers on the planet (approximately 1,400 individuals), remains the country with the largest number of poachers. Despite special programs to protect tigers, on which the Indian authorities spent 487 million euros, the extinction of tigers in India has not yet been prevented.

Over the past 50 years, the number of Far Eastern (Amur) tigers has increased from 100 to 500 individuals. Participants of the International Forum in St. Petersburg proposed creating an international association that would include Interpol and the customs authorities of participating states. The forum’s participating countries with tigers include Bangladesh, Burma, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, Russia, Thailand and Vietnam. Representatives of these countries must approve a program to save tigers, which will be funded over the next five years by $330.8 million.

The fight for the survival of tigers: initiatives by conservationists

Tigers are one of the most endangered species on Earth, and conservationists are fighting for their survival. One of the key initiatives is strengthening control over poaching. Various organizations and governments create special teams and programs to combat poachers who hunt tigers for their valuable parts and organs.

Another important initiative is the conservation and restoration of tiger habitat. This includes creating sanctuaries and national parks where tigers can live and breed in safety. Work is also being carried out to restore forests and improve living conditions for wild animals.

Education and public awareness also play an important role. Campaigns are being conducted to highlight the problem and the need to protect tigers. Educational programs and events are aimed at increasing awareness and public involvement in the conservation of these unique animals.

Innovative approaches are also being used to protect tigers. The use of new technologies such as drones and GPS is helping to track and monitor tigers and their habitats, detect poachers and prevent illegal wildlife trade.

All these efforts are aimed at preserving tigers for future generations and ensuring that they can live in their natural environment.

In addition to these major initiatives, conservationists are also actively working to preserve the genetic diversity of surviving tiger populations. This includes programs to breed and restore captive populations, as well as research to study the genetic makeup and health of the remaining tigers.

One strategy is to create connectivity corridors between different reserves and national parks to allow tigers to migrate and genetic pools to mix to prevent inbreeding and keep populations healthy.

Working with local communities to become partners in tiger conservation is also an important aspect. This includes educating neighboring communities about the importance of tiger conservation, creating alternative sources of income to reduce pressure on natural resources, and involving local residents in conservation and poaching control programs.

Tiger conservation is a complex and long-term task that requires joint efforts by governments, the public and the scientific community. However, thanks to the persistent efforts of initiative groups and organizations, there is hope that tigers will be able to survive the threats and maintain their place in our world.

Caribbean crisis: an island on the verge of flooding and panic among residents
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Caribbean crisis: an island on the verge of flooding and panic among residents

For more than a century, the people of this island, inhabited by the indigenous Kuna people, have called it home. Now, with the threat of complete flooding, 1,200 people are forced to leave their way of life and move to the mainland. A tranquil corner located off the coast of Panama is gradually losing its landmass under the influence of the sea, leaving only a memory of the past.

Under threat of flood: the island’s population is preparing to evacuate

The small Caribbean island of Gardi Sugdub is periodically flooded by the sea. It is located just three kilometers off the coast of Panama and has been home to the indigenous Kuna people for over a hundred years. This island became the first place for the relocation of Latin Americans by government decree. Now its 1,200 residents are faced with the need to leave their usual places of residence before they finally disappear under water.

About three hundred families are actively preparing for drastic displacement. These people, whose lives are inextricably linked with the sea and tourism, will be evacuated to land in the near future.

“It’s hard for us, because we are preparing to leave the houses where we have lived all our lives. We are losing touch with the sea, where we fished, swam and received tourists. The sea is gradually flooding our island,” says 24-year-old Nadine Morales, who is planning to move together with my mother, uncle and boyfriend.

A spokesman for Panama’s Housing Ministry says some residents have decided to stay on the island until their health is at risk, but did not specify the exact number. Authorities will not force the people to evacuate, according to the official, who asked to remain anonymous.

Climate change and the future of Gardi Sugdub: challenges and hopes for the best

The Caribbean island of Gardi Sugdub has witnessed a slow but inexorable advance of sea water onto its shores. Just 400 yards long and 150 yards wide, it rises just 40 centimeters above the water level. For the indigenous Kuna people, the island is much more than just a piece of land – it is their history, their culture, their home. However, even with their efforts to strengthen the coast, the sea continues to swallow up the land, streets, and houses. “In recent years, I’ve seen climate change have a huge impact. The tide is higher than ever and the heat is unbearable,” said Nadine Morales, 24, as she and her family prepare to move to the mainland. Some of the residents decide to stay until the last while it is safe, however, every year the decision becomes more and more difficult, and the future of the island becomes more and more uncertain.

Unfortunately, the situation on Gardi Sugdub Island is becoming increasingly tense as the resettlement deadline approaches. Residents will have to adapt to new living conditions on the mainland, which can be difficult after centuries spent on their home island.

The prospect of leaving home, their roots and their traditional way of life poses complex emotional and practical challenges for local residents. Residents of the island of Gardi Sugdub are due to move to the mainland by the end of next year, where the first houses for them have already been built. However, due to a lack of funding, construction has been temporarily suspended. It is doubtful whether the move will be completed as planned, given the limited time for full adaptation and relocation.

However, joint efforts by local organizations, government and international parties can mitigate the impact of this emergency. It is important to provide support and assistance to the island’s residents in the process of adapting to new conditions, as well as to develop measures to prevent similar crises in the future.

Despite the uncertainty and difficulties that must be overcome, there is still hope for a more stable future. Local residents continue to fight for their survival and the preservation of their culture, hoping for better times ahead.

Iceland opens world record carbon plant
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Iceland opens world record carbon plant

Climeworks, a Switzerland-based company, has introduced its second commercial direct air capture (DAC) plant, dwarfing its predecessor Orca in size by a factor of ten. Orca, which commenced operations in 2021, served as the foundation for this leap in scale, as reported by CNN.

Direct air capture: Climeworks and Carbfix create a zero-waste process

Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology utilizes chemical reactions to extract carbon from the atmosphere. The resulting carbon can be repurposed for various applications, including underground storage or conversion into valuable products.

Climeworks intends to sequester the captured carbon underground, where it naturally transforms into rock, effectively storing the carbon indefinitely. This process, known as sequestration, is conducted in collaboration with the Icelandic company Carbfix. What sets this project apart is its reliance on Iceland’s clean geothermal energy to power the entire operation. As a result, the process of capturing carbon and converting it into stable stone occurs without emissions from the technology itself, thereby aiding in the reduction of carbon emissions.

Despite the potential of carbon removal technologies like DAC, they remain contentious due to significant challenges. Critics argue that they are costly, energy-intensive, and not yet proven at scale. Additionally, some advocates for climate action express concern that focusing on such technologies may divert attention from the urgent need to decrease dependence on fossil fuels.

Climeworks unveils Mammoth, a giant carbon capture plant

Climeworks has unveiled Mammoth, an enormous carbon capture facility. Construction of Mammoth commenced in June 2022, marking it as the largest facility of its kind globally. Its modular design accommodates 72 collection units dedicated to capturing carbon from the air. Presently, 12 of these units are operational, with plans to expand in the coming months.

According to Climeworks, Mammoth has the capacity to extract 36,000 tons of carbon annually from the atmosphere. This is equivalent to offsetting the emissions of approximately 7,800 gas-powered vehicles for a year. Mammoth represents a significant stride in mitigating the impact of carbon on the climate and underscores the potential of carbon capture technologies to address climate change on the requisite scale.

Mass extinction: more than 1,400 bird species lost to human activity
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Mass extinction: more than 1,400 bird species lost to human activity

The world of wildlife around us is a different combination of different species of animals. Scientists have recently discovered how devastating the consequences of our actions can be. Birds and humans have a long history of coexistence, but unfortunately, many bird species have vanished because of human activity  intervention. Recent research by a team of scientists from Sweden and the UK, headed by Rob Cook, has used statistical models to determine the extent of this influence. They concluded that before the 1500s, human activity may have been responsible for the extinction of a significant number of bird species, as reported by New Humanist.

Tragedy on the islands: extinction of birds due to human activity

Recent scientific research led by Rob Cook of the UK’s Center for Ecology and Hydrology has highlighted how the islands have become a major focus of these tragedies. Using New Zealand as an example, where the scientific community has a complete record of pre-human bird species, the researchers made a number of educated guesses to arrive at the global death toll. The results were stunning: every eighth bird species became a victim of human activity. The total number of species lost was a dismal figure – about 1,400 species were destroyed due to our influence. This is alarming because birds play a key role in the balance of nature, from  pollinating plants to scattering seeds, and their disappearance severely disrupts ecosystems.

Although the past cannot be changed, the present situation for our feathered friends does not look much promising. In the UK alone, wild bird numbers have decreased by 73 million since  the 1970s. Simple measures such as installing bird feeders or limiting outdoor cats’ access to them can help, but more serious steps are needed to make real change. Restoring natural habitats, moving towards sustainable agricultural practices and efforts to combat climate  change are critical measures to give birds a chance to survive in the modern world.

This study doesn’t just describe the pain of loss in nature, it serves as a wake-up call for humanity. It highlights our significant impact on the planet and calls for greater conservation efforts. By understanding our past mistakes, we can move forward to a future where birds and people can continue to thrive together without hurting each other.

Endangered Birds: The Biodiversity Crisis and the Role of Human Impacts

Every year, many bird species disappear on Earth as a result of human activity and environmental changes. According to research, since the beginning of the 20th century, about 200 bird species have been declared extinct. Among them are such famous species as the giant dodo, passenger pigeon and pygmy islander deer giant dodo,lived on the island of Mauritius, and was one of the largest flying birds in the world. However, the arrival of European sailors in the 17th century led to the extinction of this visible and clumsy bird within just a few decades.

Passenger pigeon,once the most abundant bird species in North America, was driven to extinction in the early 20th century by commercial hunting and loss of natural habitats.

Islander dwarf deer,living on the islands of the Mediterranean Sea, also faced threats caused by human influence. Loss of natural habitats and hunting have led to the   disappearance of this distinctive bird species. Human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, the introduction of invasive species, and hunting, have emerged as the primary drivers behind the extinction of numerous bird species.Island species, whose natural habitats are being destroyed, are particularly vulnerable to these threats.

It is unfortunate that many of these extinct species were distinct and have no counterparts among current  bird species. Their loss not only means a loss of biodiversity, but also the potential loss of valuable information about the life and evolution of birds.

To preserve the remaining species and prevent further extinction of birds, it is necessary to take effective measures to protect nature, preserve and restore their habitats, and reduce human impact on the environment.

Dust storms on the rise: Scientists predict tougher times for Europe
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Dust storms on the rise: Scientists predict tougher times for Europe

Dust storms are becoming increasingly common in the European region, confirming scientists’ alarming predictions of an increase in extreme weather events. Recent studies show a steady trend of increasing frequency and severity of these storms, raising serious concerns about the continent’s future climate. Scientists have expressed concern that more frequent and intense dust storms could have serious consequences for the region’s environment, health and economy, making predictions of tougher times for Europe increasingly likely.

Environmental alarm: scientists have discovered an increase in sandstorms in different parts of the globe

Sand and dust storms are becoming “increasingly common and severe” in parts of the globe, according to the United Nations. They especially affect the desert and steppe regions of our planet. In the American Great Plains, for example, the number of such storms has doubled over the past two decades. It is also worth noting that in just two months of 2022, ten sand storms were recorded in Iraq.

As the number of storms increases across the planet, scientists are racing to investigate and explain the trend. The main influencing factors are considered to be large-scale deforestation, overgrazing, soil erosion and climate change.

Professor David Thomas, from Oxford University’s Center for the Environment, notes that any human activity on the edges of deserts that reduces water bodies or removes natural vegetation increases the risk of dust storms. He cited examples of negative consequences such as the drying up of the Aral Sea and the draining of the Iraqi swamps as vivid illustrations of this.

Many sandstorms in desert areas are of natural origin. One scientist notes that parts of the Sahara are a natural source of dust in the atmosphere that is not due to human activity. For example, dry lake beds left behind by past wet climates act as natural sources of dust around the world.

The United Nations recommends land restoration and effective soil and water management to increase soil fertility and vegetation cover, among other ways to combat natural disasters. Despite the surprise of this fact, China is a leader in this field, implementing the world’s largest tree planting project.

Since 1978, when the Great Green Wall project began, more than 66 billion trees have been planted, with plans to reach 100 billion by 2050. The project aims to protect northeastern China from dust storms emanating from the Gobi Desert, offering hope for a more sustainable future for the region.

Sandstorms and health: serious risks for people

Sandstorms can have serious impacts on human health due to various factors:

Respiratory system. Dust and sand thrown into the air during storms can enter the human respiratory tract. It can irritate the lining of the nose, throat and lungs, and may worsen existing breathing problems such as asthma or bronchitis.

Diseases of the respiratory system. Long-term exposure to dust and fine sand can lead to the development of various respiratory diseases, including pneumonia, bronchial infections and even pneumoconiosis (a disease caused by inhalation of mineral dusts).

Eye diseases. Sand and dust in the air can cause irritation and inflammation of the eye mucosa, which can lead to conjunctivitis, allergic reactions and other eye diseases.

Skin health. Contact with sand and dust can also have a negative impact on the skin, causing dryness, irritation, allergic reactions and even sunburn due to the reduction of the protective layer of the atmosphere during storms.

Mental Health. Sandstorms can cause stress and anxiety in people due to the threat they pose to health and safety, especially if they occur too frequently or with high intensity.

In general, sandstorms pose a serious threat to human health, especially for those living in regions prone to such natural phenomena.

Population recovery: red squirrels on Mersea Island are back to normal
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Population recovery: red squirrels on Mersea Island are back to normal

After their original range was lost, red squirrels virtually disappeared from the island, but the efforts of volunteers and scientists have led to the restoration of their population, while maintaining the integrity of the local ecosystem.

David and Anne Scott: life with red squirrels on Mersea Island

Red squirrels, one of the iconic species in European forests, have become the focus of conservationists and communities on Mersea Island in Essex, England. More than ten years ago, when the number of these animals on the island began to decline, residents and scientists decided to organize a program to return red squirrels to their community.
More than a decade ago, residents of Mersea Island in Essex, England, began a program to reintroduce red squirrels to their community. Starting with 27 squirrels in 2012, the initiative has become a success and the red squirrel population is now estimated to number between 50 and 100 individuals. These animals have restored their role in the island’s ecosystem and become a joyful sight for local residents, confirming humanity’s ability not only to destroy nature, but also to restore its vulnerable components, reports the BBC.

This successful red squirrel reintroduction project has brought much joy to the island. David and Anne Scott, who have lived here for about seven years, enjoy seeing these fascinating creatures in their garden. Squirrels have become such a familiar and beloved part of their daily lives that David compares the satisfaction of watching them to the entertainment value of watching television. They, like other island residents, deeply appreciate the unique opportunity to observe these animals up close.

Ann and David Scott have turned their garden into a cozy haven for squirrels, providing them with a variety of treats including hazelnuts and banana chips. Their enjoyment of interacting with the squirrels highlights how strong bonds can form between humans and wild animals if they are given the opportunity to coexist peacefully. This personal interaction with the animals confirms the overall success of the Mersea Island Red Squirrels’ reintroduction program. Volunteers have put significant effort into not only bringing back red squirrels, but also helping them thrive given the lack of gray squirrels on the island, which often compete with red squirrels for resources and territory.

Thanks to dedicated efforts to conserve the environment and create a suitable environment for the growth and development of these species, the project has been a success. Mersey’s innovative initiative, inspired by examples of other island communities conserving red squirrel populations, is an important example of how careful planning and active involvement of local communities can lead to the revival of local wildlife. The thriving red squirrels on Mersea Island provide inspiration to conservationists and motivate similar efforts in other regions, highlighting the positive impact of restoring native species to their natural habitats.

The role of squirrels in the ecosystem: seed dispersers and population regulators

Proteins play a key role in the ecosystem, having several beneficial functions:

Seed distribution. Squirrels are active distributors of seeds of various plants. They can carry seeds over long distances, which facilitates plant dispersal and supports biodiversity.

Regulation of insect numbers. Squirrels are natural predators for many insect species. Their consumption of insects helps control pest populations and maintain balance in the ecosystem.

Work as an indicator of the state of the ecosystem. Changes in squirrel numbers and behavior may serve as an indicator of health and ecosystem sustainability. A successful squirrel population usually indicates a good ecological environment.

Interaction with other animals. Squirrels can be an important link in the food chain, providing food for predators and maintaining balance in populations of different species.

Creation of food warehouses. Squirrels often create food warehouses where they bring and store nuts and other foods. This may help regulate populations of plants and other species, as well as provide food for other animals during the winter.

Thus, proteins are an important part of the ecosystem, performing a number of useful functions that maintain the balance and diversity of life in nature.

Problems with water in the Seine: environmentalists raised concerns for athletes at the Olympic Games in Paris
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Problems with water in the Seine: environmentalists raised concerns for athletes at the Olympic Games in Paris

On April 8, the French non-profit environmental organization Surfrider Europe concluded that the current state of water in the Seine River does not allow water sports competitions to be held at the Paris Olympic Games.

Surfrider Europe opposes the Olympic competition in the Seine River: what is the reason

OrganizationSurfrider Europe Categorically against carrying out aquatics competitions at the Olympic Games in Paris.

We are completely against holding swimming competitions or other events in the Seine River due to its current condition. We consider it unacceptable to put the health of Olympic Games participants at risk“, the organization wrote on the social network X (formerly Twitter). Representatives of Surfrider Europe have been monitoring the state of water in the Seine since September 2023. During this time, they took 14 samples from the river for analysis in an independent laboratory. According to them, none of the samples does not meet European water quality standards.In particular, the concentration of E. coli on average exceeds 2 thousand colony-forming units (CFU) per 100 ml, with a norm of 1 thousand CFU, reports the newspaper Le Figaro.

Earlier, on April 4, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed his willingness to swim in the Seine River, where competitions will be held at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, despite concerns about water quality. In 2023, a test swimming competition on the Seine was canceled due to doubts about the purity of the water, the newspaper Le Figaro noted. Due to deteriorating water conditions, swimming in the river was prohibited back in 1923. However, as the publication points out, these Olympic Games are planning to resume swimming in the Seine.

According to the latest poll from the end of March, 52% of French citizens believe that the country is not ready to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Le Monde newspaper reported on March 21 that a “social cleansing” was taking place in the Paris region ahead of the Olympics. Police carried out numerous raids on refugee camps and homeless communities. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced on March 5 that the number of spectators at the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics in Paris would be almost halved to ensure safety. The Paris Olympics will take place from July 24 to August 11, with the opening ceremony taking place on July 26.

Safety concerns: the water environment in the Seine River is at risk for sporting events

The state of the water in the Seine River is currently a major concern and does not meet safety requirements for aquatics competitions. This important circumstance calls into question the possibility of holding sporting events related to the Seine River, including the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The reasons for such an unfavorable state of water in the river may be different. This may be due to river pollution from various sources, such as industrial emissions, pollution from domestic wastewater, as well as other factors affecting the ecological state of the reservoir. Careful analysis and monitoring of water quality is necessary to identify sources of pollution and take measures to eliminate them.

Failure to comply with safety requirements for aquatics competitions can have serious consequences. This can affect the health of competitors as well as their performance. The safety and health of athletes involved in water activities should be a priority for organizers of sporting events.

Solving the water problem in the Seine River requires a comprehensive approach and collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental organizations, scientific institutions and the public. It is necessary to develop and implement effective measures to clean up and protect the river to ensure its suitability for hosting sporting events and preserving the river ecosystem as a whole.

Air pollution in Europe: High levels of fine particles threaten health
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Air pollution in Europe: High levels of fine particles threaten health

Recent studies indicate that air quality across Europe has seen a noticeable improvement over the last twenty years. However, despite these improvements, a considerable segment of the European populace lives in areas where pollution levels exceed the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Conducted by researchers at the Institute for Global Health in Barcelona (ISGlobal), a recent study delved into the daily pollution levels across more than 1,400 areas spanning 35 European nations, collectively hosting approximately 543 million individuals. The investigation, spanning from 2003 to 2019, unveiled a decline in the the total levels of suspended particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) as well as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) throughout the majority of European regions throughout the past twenty years.

Air quality in Europe has experienced notable improvements, particularly regarding the levels of pollution from pollution caused by coarse particulate matter (PM10) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), where the largest declines have been observed.

Air pollution still above WHO standards

According to the researchers’ report, despite advancements in air quality, numerous citizens still experience the negative effects of air pollution that exceed the recommended standards of the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to the study, 98% of Europeans continue to live in areas with unfavorable levels of PM2.5. Each year, over tiny particles in the air closely associated with cardiovascular disease , strokes, and diabetes, is linked to approximately 250,000 premature deaths in the European Union each year.

Although the number of deaths caused by PM2.5 fell by 41% from 2005 to 2021, the European Environment Agency encourages member states to continue efforts to further reduce pollution. About 80% of Europeans reside in regions with elevated levels of PM10, and approximately 86% experience high levels of NO2.

Ozone concentrations in southern Europe increased by 0.58%, in other regions of the continent they either remained the same or even decreased. Researcher Zhao-Yue Chen from ISGlobal notes that targeted action is required to address PM2.5 and ozone, especially in light of the increasing risks posed by climate change in Europe.

Study reveals: where are the most polluted areas in Europe?

Air pollution levels have indeed seen a decrease over the past two decades, certain hotspots persist across the continent. The most significant concentrations of particulate matter pollution (PM2.5 and PM10) are notably found in Northern Italy and Eastern Europe. Moreover, Northern Italy and specific regions of Western Europe, such as southern UK, Belgium, and the Netherlands, continue to experience elevated levels of pollution exhibit elevated levels of NO2

The largest decreases in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were recorded in central Europe, while NO2 decreased predominantly in metropolitan regions in Western Europe.

A vicious circle: the correlation between climate change and air pollution

Researchers suggest a delicate balance exists between climate change and atmospheric pollution. Elevated temperatures and strong solar radiation play a role in generating ozone through chemical processes. The rise in ozone levels subsequently speeds up the creation of fresh PM2.5 particles. Climate change also heightens the likelihood of wildfires, which further elevate PM2.5 and ozone levels in the air.

“This intricate interaction establishes a hazardous loop, emphasizing the critical importance of addressing the dual challenges posed by climate change and air pollution.  concurrently,” remarked Joanne Ballester Claramunt, a research fellow at ISGlobal and the primary author of the study.

Which animals play a key role in environmental initiatives?
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Which animals play a key role in environmental initiatives?

In light of the growing environmental concerns of our planet, it is becoming increasingly important to draw attention to initiatives that contribute to the preservation of the environment. In this context, the role of animals that help people in efforts to save the planet should not be underestimated.

From bees to dolphins: how nine animal species are helping to save the planet

As humans, we are responsible for many of the planet’s environmental problems. However, we are not alone in the fight to save her.Here are eight examples of such animals and their importance to environmental initiatives:

Bees. These little workers are an integral part of our ecosystem through plant pollination. They play a key role in maintaining biodiversity and crop productivity.

Thanks to their exquisite sense of smell, bees are able to detect mines. Not only do they help scientists make accurate maps of minefields, but they also avoid the danger of self-explosion by lingering in the air above the mine. In addition, bees warn of the release of toxic substances by making characteristic sounds for various chemicals. This allows scientists to use them to accurately detect dangerous substances and chemical weapons attacks.

Mountain gorillas. They are a symbol of the fight to preserve wildlife. Efforts to protect mountain gorillas could lead to the creation of sanctuaries and national parks, which would help conserve biodiversity and prevent deforestation.

Whales. Different species of whales help science study marine ecosystems and climate change, as their migrations and behavior can serve as indicators of the health of the oceans.

Fishing eagles. These birds of prey are an indicator of the ecological sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. Their presence indicates that there are enough fish and other animals in the water bodies, which indicates the health of the aquatic environment.

Beavers. Their dam-building activities help create ecosystems in aquatic habitats, improving water quality and providing housing for many other animal species.

Corals. Although they are not animals in the traditional sense, corals are the foundation of marine ecosystems. Their conservation is critical to combating climate change and maintaining marine biodiversity.

Pandas. These threatened species are a symbol of wildlife conservation. Conservation efforts for pandas can help preserve their natural environment and the other species with which they coexist.

Dolphins. Their unique communication and behavioral abilities help scientists study marine ecosystems and make recommendations for their conservation.

Narwhal whale: new data on ocean temperatures Finding evidence of climate change in icy Arctic waters can be a challenge. So the researchers turned to narwhals, skilled deep-sea divers (their ability to dive to depths of more than 1.5 km). After equipping 14 narwhals with thermometers and satellite transmitters, scientists from the University of Washington found that the water in the center of Baffin Bay is 0.9 degrees Celsius warmer than previously thought. This new data will help improve climate models.

These nine animal species are just a glimpse of how wildlife diversity contributes to efforts to conserve ecosystems and natural resources. It is important to recognize their role and support initiatives to protect and conserve them, as this affects not only the animals themselves, but also the well-being of the entire planet.

Animal symbols and environmental challenges: the importance of their role in wildlife conservation

Animals, symbols of the fight for wildlife conservation, play an important role in environmental initiatives. Here’s the role they play:

Penguins Are symbols of the fight to preserve wildlife, especially due to climate change and the loss of their natural habitats in Antarctica. They are a reminder of the need to protect marine ecosystems and maintain biodiversity in the oceans.

Mountain gorillas symbolize efforts to conserve wild animals and their habitats. They help draw attention to the problems of species extinction, illegal hunting and forest destruction. Protecting mountain gorillas requires the creation of sanctuaries and national parks to help preserve ecosystems and prevent deforestation.

Foxes play the role of symbols in the fight for the conservation of biodiversity and conservation of ecosystems. They emphasize the importance of conserving wild animals and preventing their extinction due to illegal hunting, destruction of their natural habitats and environmental pollution.

All of these animals are important symbols of the fight for wildlife conservation and call for action to protect and sustainably use natural resources.