The Sixth Extinction’ by Elizabeth Kolbert is an overview of past and present mass extinctions. Discover why many scientists believe that humans are causing a new era of mass extinction today. (5:30 min read)
Category: Nature
Lightning Strikes Vital to Origin of Life
Lightning strikes have played a part in theories on the origin of life since Darwin. Discover how a new study sheds more light on the role of lightning in bringing life to our planet. (4:00 min read)
Origins: Cosmos, Earth and Mankind – A Review
'Origins: Cosmos, Earth and Humanity’ is a classic work in the Big History movement. Discover how it outlines the evolution of the Universe and its meaning for our lives together. (5:00 min read)
Lifeless Matter Needs Destruction to Evolve
Lifeless matter could only have evolved into self-replicating molecules by growing more complex. Discover how destruction might make this counterintuitive process conceivable. (4:15 min read)
Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Reductions Go Together
Air pollution has a cooling effect on the atmosphere, while greenhouse gases cause global warming. Discover why both emission types must be cut in combination to preserve our environment. (4:00 min read)
Carbon Taxes Are the Best Way to Fight Climate Change
Carbon taxes aren’t terribly popular in some circles, but they work. Discover what a new study found about the results of putting a price on carbon compared to other measures to combat the climate crisis.(4:00 min read)
‘Making Peace with Nature’ Report Offers Sustainable Blueprint
‘Making Peace with Nature’ is the title of a new report from the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). Discover how it lays out a blueprint for solving our climate, biodiversity and pollution challenges.(4:30 min read)
Food Waste Caused By Picky Consumers
Food waste is getting out of hand as consumers reject items with minor imperfections. Discover what’s behind our food choices and how we can improve our decision making. (4:00 min read)
Animal Movement Disruptions Threaten Biodiversity
Animal movement changes are the result of human disruption of ecosystems. Discover why these changes pose a threat to species survival and to global biodiversity. (3:30 min read)
Trees and Plants Losing Capacity to Stop Climate Change
Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change. Find out why a new study concludes that this C02 fertilization effect is getting weaker. (4:45 min read)