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In recent years, scientific research has increasingly focused on the impact of the environment on human health, and one of the most intriguing aspects of this study is the role of natural scents. Scientists have begun to explore how the scents of forests, the sea, and other natural landscapes can impact our physical and emotional well-being. These studies aim to uncover how natural scents can reduce stress, improve mood, and even have a positive impact on overall health. Understanding these interactions can open up new perspectives for creating wellness practices and improving quality of life through mindful interaction with nature.

Green Window to Recovery: How Nature Views Speed ​​Up Healing in Healthcare Facilities

A study has demonstrated the surprising effect nature has on the healing process of hospital patients. In the experiment, scientists compared the treatment results of two groups of patients who were in similar conditions, but with one difference: one group had the opportunity to see greenery and open spaces from their rooms, while the other group had a view of brick walls or empty courtyards.

The results of the study showed that patients whose windows overlooked nature recovered significantly faster. They demonstrated lower levels of stress and pain, and required fewer medications to relieve symptoms. Surprisingly, even short-term contact with the natural landscape contributed to a faster recovery and improved overall well-being.

This experiment highlighted the importance of visual and psychological interaction with nature for human well-being. It became the basis for further research aimed at integrating natural elements into medical institutions and creating more comfortable conditions for patients, which opened up new horizons in the approach to treatment and rehabilitation.

Nature’s Scent as Medicine: New Research Reveals Potential of Olfaction to Improve Quality of Life

Understanding how natural scents affect our health could not only improve our well-being, but also influence how we care for our planet, protect ecosystems, and design urban spaces, homes, and parks. While traditional research has focused primarily on the visual aspects of interacting with nature, such as enjoying green landscapes, much less attention has been paid to the role of the sense of smell. A group of researchers aims to change this approach by focusing on how the scents of nature affect our physical and emotional well-being. This new area of ​​research could pave the way for a deeper understanding of how scents can contribute to our health and well-being, as well as influence the future design of living spaces and conservation.

“Our environment is saturated with scents, and we have a sophisticated olfactory system that detects and interprets them, which in turn influences our mood and behavior,” explains Gregory Bratman, an associate professor of ecology and forestry at the University of Washington. “Yet, in contrast to the extensive research on the visual perception of nature, we know much less about how nature’s scents and olfactory cues affect us.”

Gregory Bratman points out that while the visual and emotional effects of nature are being studied extensively, the sense of smell remains less explored. “Smells play a key role in shaping our perception of the world around us and can have a significant impact on our psycho-emotional state,” he adds. Research shows that olfactory signals can trigger various emotional responses and even change cognitive processes.

Modern research is beginning to focus on the importance of olfactory perception, viewing it as a powerful tool in improving quality of life and well-being. For example, the smells of forests, fresh grass, or sea air can have a calming and restorative effect. This knowledge can be used to create more harmonious and supportive spaces in healthcare settings, urban areas, and residential areas.

As scientists continue to delve deeper into the study of olfactory perception, we are beginning to realize how important it is to incorporate the scents of nature into solutions aimed at improving overall well-being and creating healthier, more comfortable living conditions.

Gregory Bratman and his international colleagues are joining forces to study how odors and aromas from natural environments affect our health and well-being. This interdisciplinary team of specialists, including experts in olfaction, psychology, ecology, public health, atmospheric sciences and other fields, works in scientific institutions around the world, from the US and UK to Taiwan, Germany, Poland and Cyprus.

In Thailand, disaster once again struck the country with destructive force: floods that swept through several regions led to the tragic death of 22 people. The situation remains critical and authorities are warning of possible new threats, urging citizens to be extremely careful and prepare for further challenges that could hit in the coming days.

Shinawatra visits affected areas as rescue workers try to free workers from rubble in Nakhon Ratchasima

Thailand has been hit by powerful monsoon rains in recent days, causing widespread flooding and landslides that have killed 22 people and left 19 others injured. Local authorities reported widespread destruction affecting more than 30,000 households in various provinces of the country. These extreme weather conditions were the result of intense torrential rainfall that hit the country and caused river levels to soar, flooding large areas.

On the southern island of Phuket, which was hit particularly hard, a landslide struck, killing 13 people, including a Russian couple and nine migrant workers from neighboring Myanmar. These tragic events are only part of a larger picture of destruction that has affected dozens of provinces. Officials warn the risk of flooding and landslides remains and urge residents to take extra care.

Prime Minister Patong Tan Shinawatra is actively involved in providing assistance to the victims. He personally visits flooded areas, distributing food rations to residents of northern Nana. At the same time, the Ministry of Transport is faced with the challenges of rescue operations, in particular at the construction site of the Thai-Chinese railway in Nakhon Ratchasima province, where a tunnel collapsed. Rescuers are struggling to free three workers from the rubble, highlighting the scale of the problem.

In light of current events, authorities urge the public to take precautions and monitor weather forecasts as monsoon rains are expected to continue. Experts warn of possible new waves of floods and landslides, which could cause further damage and loss.

New threats: strategies to prepare for and protect against floods and landslides

With the growing threat of floods and landslides, it is important to know how to act correctly to minimize risks to life and health. The first and foremost recommendation is to follow weather warnings and recommendations from local authorities. Modern technology allows you to quickly receive information about potential threats, so it is important to stay up to date with the latest updates and prepare in advance for possible disasters.

If there is a threat of flooding, if you are in a risk area, you should evacuate immediately. The water can rise very quickly and you need to be prepared to react quickly. Prepare an emergency kit that includes important documents, medications, water, non-perishable food, a flashlight and spare batteries. If you are indoors, move valuables to upper floors and turn off electricity to prevent short circuits.

In case of landslides, it is also important to act in advance. If you live near slopes or in an area prone to landslides, try to avoid these areas in rainy conditions. Watch closely for signs of ground instability, such as cracks in the ground or flooded areas. If a landslide has already occurred, immediately leave the danger zone and report the situation to emergency services. Try to avoid driving in landslide areas, as roads may be destroyed or blocked.

In both cases, remain calm and follow the instructions of local authorities. Regular training and emergency response training will help you and your family be more prepared for unexpected natural disasters.

Scientists warn that coming heat waves could have serious consequences for human health and ecosystems. Sudden spikes in temperature above historical norms are not only a nuisance, but also a real threat to life, especially for vulnerable populations. Preparing for and adapting to extreme weather conditions are becoming a priority to reduce potential hazards and support people’s physical well-being during this dangerous summer period.

Climate crisis: World heat records in 2024

Much of the US population has already experienced extremely high temperatures. In Death Valley, the thermometer jumped to an alarming +53.9°C, and Las Vegas set a new all-time high with a reading of +48.9°C. Extreme temperatures continue to grip countries around the world, The Conversation reports.

The past 13 months have been the hottest months on record, according to the European Union’s climate service Copernicus. Over the past 12 months, average temperatures have exceeded pre-industrial levels, which date back to the period between 1850 and 1900, by at least one and a half degrees.

These data are of great concern to scientists, since such temperature deviations indicate a significant impact of human activity on the Earth’s climate system. Rising temperatures are having destructive effects on ecosystems, causing global sea levels to rise, and increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events such as droughts, hurricanes and floods. In this context, urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to a changing climate to reduce the impact of global warming and ensure a sustainable future for all people on earth.

Early summer heat is reportedly evidence of a continuing global warming trend. These dangerous temperatures pose a significant risk to human life across the planet.

Global warming: heat becomes a global threat

In Mexico and Central America, long weeks of extreme heat coupled with prolonged drought have caused severe water shortages and led to dozens of deaths.

Extreme heat in Saudi Arabia led to tragedy: more than 1,000 people died during the pilgrimage to Mecca. On June 17, the temperature in the Grand Mosque in Mecca reached +51.8 degrees Celsius. Hospitals in Pakistan have become overwhelmed due to intense heat and frequent power outages and water shortages in the past few weeks. In neighboring India in April and May, temperatures reached +48.9° for several days in a row, causing suffering for millions of people.

In Greece, thermometers rose above +37.8°, which led to the death of several tourists. Record temperatures were also recorded in Japan.

Heat waves, once considered a rarity, have now become an almost regular occurrence. This not only poses serious risks to people, but also causes serious damage to ecosystems, agriculture and infrastructure. Combating climate change requires coordinated efforts and immediate action at all levels to mitigate the effects and prevent further deterioration of the situation.

Researchers warn: it’s not just summer 2024

And while heat waves are a natural part of the climate, their intensity and scale in 2024 leave little room for doubt. Studying the last ice age, which began about 20,000 years ago, you can see the planet was only 6 degrees lower than it is now. This reminds us that even a small warming of 1.2 degrees can change the climate dramatically. The summer of 2024 will likely go down as one of the hottest summers ever recorded, but it’s important to recognize that the future may also bring unexpected temperature swings. In 2024, high temperatures pose not only a challenge to vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly and outdoor workers, but also a threat to the economy. Extreme heat can damage infrastructure and lead to railroad breakdowns and power outages, which are especially critical during periods of increased energy demand for cooling. June 2024 has already set the record for the hottest on record, and scientists are predicting the entire year could be the warmest on record since the mid-1800s.

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.

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.

The inaugural seven-night Caribbean voyage of the largest cruise vessel globally, known as the Icon of the Seas, commenced from the Miami, Florida port. The length of this vessel is a record 365 meters. For comparison, the famous Titanic was shorter by almost 100 meters, having a length of 269 meters, and the length of the United States Navy’s largest aircraft carrier, the Gerald R. Ford, measured 333.

Sea Garden City: Explore the amazing features of the ship for maximum comfort

In addition to a variety of entertainment, the ship offers comfortable accommodation for up to 7,600 passengers. It is a true city on the water, providing access to a variety of entertainment and services on its 20 decks. Passengers can enjoy not only a rich selection of restaurants, cafes and bars, but also green areas with tropical vegetation where they can relax and enjoy nature right on the ship.

Registered in the Bahamas and built in Finland at a cost of US$2 billion, the ship is a remarkable piece of engineering. Its propulsion engines operate using liquefied natural gas (LNG). The fight for clean air: environmental challenges and solutions in the maritime industry.

Environmentalists have expressed criticism regarding the use of this type of fuel, arguing that its utilization results in the emission of methane into the atmosphere.  While natural gas in a liquefied state (LNG) combustion is more environmentally friendly than conventional marine fuels such as heating oil, its composition is 85-95% methane. This increases the risk of methane leaking into the environment, with methane being a more dangerous greenhouse gas compared to carbon dioxide. Over the span of two decades, methane captures 80 times more heat in the atmosphere in comparison to carbon dioxide, which has notable reductions in such emissions, a key goal in the fight against climate change.

Brian Comer, acting as the head of the maritime program at the International Council on Clean Transport (ICCT) has expressed reservations about the utilization of LNG as a marine fuel.

He makes an estimation that this will lead to a 120% increase in greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere over the life of the ship than using traditional marine gas oil. An earlier report by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) revealed that methane emissions from vessels utilizing liquefied natural gas (LNG) exceed established standards. However, according to Royal Caribbean, the owner of the ship, the Icon of the Seas boasts a 24% improvement in energy efficiency than modern shipping regulations require. The company also plans to unveil a ship with zero emissions by the year 2035.

As per the Cruise Lines International Association, the cruise sector stands out as one of the fastest expanding sectors within tourism, especially attractive to young people. In 2021, this tourism business sector contributed US$75 billion to the global economy. Of the 54 cruise ships that will be used by travel agencies from January 2024 to December 2028, 63% will run on LNG. Currently, only about 6% of Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is utilized by cruise ships.

The consequences of the war in Ukraine affected the nature and environment of neighboring countries, including Romania and Moldova. This was reported by the ministers at the international environmental forum “United for Nature. Agenda for Ukraine”, held in Kyiv.

Environmental consequences of war: ministers from Romania and Moldova discuss challenges and collaboration

Mircea Feket, Minister of Environment, Water Resources and Forests of Romania, emphasized that the impact of the war on ecology is felt not only within the borders of Ukraine.

“We observed how construction waste appeared in the Danube Delta, where it should not have been. After the explosion at the Kakhovskaya dam, various rumors began to spread about the danger to the water quality in the Black Sea. We cooperated with our colleagues from Bulgaria and Ukraine in this matter. I immediately turned to the Minister of the Environment of Ukraine and asked about the quality of the water. We analyzed satellite images, determined the speed of water movement and performed various calculations. As a result, it turned out that the water in the Black Sea in this particular case remained safe for residents of other countries . However, we need to constantly monitor these processes, determine the damage to the environment, since this damage concerns the whole of Europe. Therefore, the aggressor must be punished,” – said Mircea Feket.

In turn, the Minister of the Environment of Moldova emphasized that the country notes the deterioration of air and water quality due to the war in Ukraine. According to her, ecologists actively monitor and monitor these processes.

“We are already seeing changes in air and water quality, and it is possible that cumulative impacts will increase over time. This requires further monitoring. We have also recorded active animal migration associated with wildfires and explosions, as animals are a very mobile part of nature , which responds to changes in the environment,” – Yordanka Rodika-Yordanov said.

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine, Ruslan Strelets, said that the process of holding Russia accountable for the damage caused to Ukraine’s nature is currently underway. 

“We are developing several directions for further actions. Among them are political and legal ways. We are already keeping records of damages, including the environmental aspect, and are working on mechanisms for their compensation from the aggressor. We have also initiated the Ukrainian environmental declaration and hope that other countries will join it It is important to note that this process of prosecution for crimes against the environment is historic and for the first time in the history of mankind,” – he emphasized.

“EcoThreat”: real figures of environmental damage after Russian aggression in Ukraine

Actual damage to the environment as a result of Russia’s war against Ukraine was announced at the forum. However, according to Ruslan Strilets, these data are constantly changing. Current information can be found on the official resource of the Ministry – “EkoZagroza”.

“To date, 3,600 cases of crimes against Ukraine’s environment have already been recorded. The total amount of damages already exceeds 2.2 trillion hryvnias. Most of these damages include atmospheric air pollution, land and water pollution, and others,” – the Ukrainian minister said.

One of the most important tasks of the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Ukraine for 2024 is the creation and promotion of the climate agenda in Ukraine, said Ruslan Strelets, Minister of Nature Protection of Ukraine.

“For us today, it is very important to take maximum steps in the next two years towards the introduction of climate legislation and the creation of an emissions trading system. This will be a guarantee that Ukrainian industry and the economy will not be affected by CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism – the world’s first cross-border tariff on carbon emissions)”, – the minister emphasized.

It should be noted that the ecological component and the transition to a green economy are important tasks for Ukraine on the way to European integration. The government needs to make a number of changes in climate policy, including reforming the energy sector, developing renewable energy, reducing emissions, better waste management and meeting commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement.

Russian aggression not only negatively affected the state of Ukraine’s environment, but also complicated the process of reforming the environmental sphere in accordance with the standards of the European Union. According to the head of the Ministry of Environment, negotiations are underway with partners regarding the reform of Ukraine’s environmental policy.

The evolution and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) spans diverse sectors, including healthcare, education and industry, and is happening at a global level. At the same time, AI is beginning to play a significant role in solving one of the most pressing problems of our time – climate change.

According to the United Nations (UN), the use of AI can have a very effective impact on a number of problems, including improving the efficiency of resource management and reducing carbon emissions and conducting research in the field of alternative energy. Artificial intelligence is poised to become a powerful tool in combating climate challenges and helping to create a more sustainable future for our planet.

Key forecasts for the future

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), artificial intelligence holds promise for processing vast amounts of data, which will significantly improve the ability to model and predict climate change. This in turn can help governments create more effective approaches to adapting to climate change and reducing its negative consequences

One example of the use of intelligent systems in this area is a project implemented in the countries of Burundi, Chad and Sudan. This project analyzes historical changes in the environment using AI, which also makes it possible to more accurately predict these changes.

Another example is the MyAnga app, which helps Kenyan herders prepare for periods of drought. It uses data from global weather stations and satellites to provide up-to-date information on weather conditions and climate trends, helping local communities make more informed decisions and adapt to environmental changes.

Reducing the risk of natural disasters

In addition to being able to predict severe weather events, artificial intelligence can also greatly enhance society’s preparation for climate disasters by working to improve the accuracy of weather forecasts and implementing early warning systems.

Such efforts are focused on identifying areas of increased risk and implementing effective response strategies as needed. For example, for areas prone to landslides, the use of such mechanisms provides local authorities with the means to reduce possible threats and ensure the safety of citizens in vulnerable conditions.

Nature and technology abstract concept, robot hand and natural hand covered with grass reaching to each other, tech and nature union, cooperation, 3d rendering

Artificial intelligence also plays a significant role in the innovative Early Warnings for All initiative launched by the UN Secretary-General. This initiative, launched earlier this year, aims to ensure the safety of every person on the planet from hazardous weather and hydrological events.

Level of atmospheric cleanliness in cities

At the moment, there are a variety of applications that provide citizens with access to information about air pollution with high accuracy, down to specific areas and even neighborhoods. This detailed information helps you make quick decisions in everyday life, such as choosing routes with cleaner air or taking steps to improve your health.

Moreover, artificial intelligence helps improve the management of transport infrastructure. Data analysis and optimization of vehicle traffic can reduce the emission of harmful substances and reduce traffic jams, which has a positive effect on air quality in cities. In addition, smart waste management systems help minimize the environmental impact of landfills, promoting cleaner, healthier urban environments.

Artificial intelligence not only improves the quality of life in cities, but also contributes to public health by reducing the negative impact of pollution on residents.

Efficient and environmentally friendly agricultural practices

According to a UN climate change report, agriculture is responsible for about 22 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

However, artificial intelligence can change this dynamic. Through smart grids, artificial intelligence can help balance product supply and demand, facilitating the integration of renewable energy into energy systems and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. In addition, AI can optimize agricultural practices for both small farmers and large corporations, reducing losses and reducing environmental impact.