COP27, the UN’s annual meeting on climate change, starts November 6. Find out what’s on the agenda and why success at this gathering is essential to humanity’s future
Category: Nature
Ecosystem Stability Determined by Two Simple Factors
Ecosystem stability has three phases, a bit like ice, water and steam. Find out how a new study explains how ecologists could predict these phases by gathering only two simple pieces of information.
European Rivers Drying Up from Climate Change
European rivers are at their lowest levels in over 500 years. Find out why this is a problem for the global economy and for ecosystems throughout Europe.
Beaver Fossil Sheds Light on Mammal Evolution
A beaver fossil found in western Montana is the oldest such specimen ever discovered. Find out how this 30-million-year-old missing link is helping to explain the astonishing diversity in mammal species on our planet.Like all Canadians, I think of the beaver as an important symbol. It’s our national mascot, and the fur trade involving the … Continue reading Beaver Fossil Sheds Light on Mammal Evolution
James Lovelock: Remembering the Gaia Hypothesis Founder
James Lovelock passed away recently at the age of 103. Find out how his Gaia hypothesis led a generation to a new understanding of the world and our place in it.
Monarch Butterfly Added to Engangered Species List
Monarch Butterfly populations have been devasted over the last past few decades. Find out why the IUCN had added these iconic pollinators to the endangered species list and how scientists are working to save them from extinction.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Aggravated by Climate Crisis
Human-wildlife conflict is becoming an increasing concern as human activity encroaches on natural habitats due to climate change. Find out how a new study involving elephants shows how we can plan for and minimize these tensions in the future.
Safeguarding Biodiversity Means Conserving 44% of Earth’s Land
Safeguarding biodiversity is crucial for the survival of Humanity and the entire ecosphere. Find out why new research calls for governments to increase global land conservation from 17% to 44% if we're serious about preserving Earth's ecosystems.
Proposed Anthropocene Epoch Seeks Formal Approval
A proposed Anthropocene epoch will be reviewed this month and possibly approved by the end of this year. Find out which sites are contending to be the epoch's "golden spike" and the prospects of its final approval.
Diet-Size Relationship in Animals Disturbed by Humans
The diet-size relationship is a universal principle in the animal kingdom that dates back millions of years. Find out how human activity is disturbing that principle's balance and the implications for species extinction.