Environment

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.

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.

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.

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.

Environment

‘Mining’ cryptocurrencies pollutes the real world

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies exist only online. Yet the environmental impacts of their networks affect the real world.

Environment

How we choose to pay has hidden costs for the planet

Whether cash or credit, phone apps or digital currencies — all forms of payment have behind-the-scenes costs. And these can vary dramatically.

Environment

Bees and butterflies struggle to find flowers in polluted air

Emissions from cars and trucks make it harder for insects to find flowers. That in turn reduces flower visits and pollination, a new study finds.

Environment

Widely used pesticides may threaten Earth’s ozone layer

Data show a major class of long-used “eco-friendly” copper chemicals unexpectedly react with soil, making gases harmful to Earth’s protective ozone layer.

Environment

Scientists Say: Pollution

Pollution is any substance or form of energy released into the environment that is harmful to people or other living creatures.

Environment

Clothes dryers may be a major source of airborne microplastics

Scientists thought washing machines were a leading contributor of microplastics. Now it appears dryers may be an even bigger problem.