Okaloosa County Abolishes Beach Renourishment

After more than four years of debate, fears of dark, shell-heavy sand being dumped on Okaloosa Island’s white beaches have been put to rest as Okaloosa County commissioners abolished the beach renourishment project.

Cruise Ship Threatens Marine Paradise

The risk of environmental damage to the Tuscan Archipelago National Park seas’ has not yet receded, as half-million gallons (2,400 tons) of black goo are still trapped within the capsized Costa Concordia luxury liner, in danger of leaking out and polluting some of the Mediterranean’s most unspoiled sea.

Reef Fish at Risk as Carbon Dioxide Levels Build

Researchers from the Australian Research Council’s Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, examined over the years how baby coral fishes and their predators dealt with sea water containing higher levels of dissolved carbon dioxide.

Ocean Giants Ban Needed on Italy Coasts: Environmentalists

As the search continues for any further survivors of the 17-deck cruise ship Costa Concordia that capsized in the middle of a marine nature reserve off Tuscany, questions are being asked about the potential environmental impact and threats to the coastline. We have a huge ship with tanks full of fuel, aground on an island in a sea fringed with natural protected areas.

To Save a Beach, They May Ruin It

Florida led the nation in establishing detailed criteria for ensuring that only high-quality sand is placed on Florida beaches during construction of beach nourishment projects.

Keeping the Sea Safe(r) from Plastic

Most biodegradable plastics don’t break down well in marine environments—they require the relative warmth of soil or a compost heap. A new plastic on the market degrades quickly both on land and in seawater.