‘Plastic-free’ fashion is not as clean or green as it seems
To promote different fibre use without fully understanding its environmental ramifications suggests a disingenuous engagement with environmental action. It incites “superficial green” purchasing that exploits a culture of plastic anxiety. The message is clear: buy differently, buy “better”, but don’t stop buying. Yet the “better” and “alternative” fashion products are not without complex social and environmental injustices.
Two vital buffers against climate change are just offshore
A new study finds that about 31 million people worldwide live in coastal regions that are “highly vulnerable” to future tropical storms and sea-level rise driven by climate change. In some of those regions, however, powerful defenses are located just offshore.
Satellites Show Scale Of Suspected Illegal Dredging In South China Sea
An unrelenting fleet of China-based dredging vessels are churning up the South China Sea. They are accused of acting illegally, and of causing ecological damage. Satellite images show the incredible scale of the activity.
Israeli scientists work to save the country’s coastline from rising tides
As the sea level rises and human interference continues, the Israeli coast will experience more intense flooding, disappearing beaches, and intensifying coastal erosion.
New Zealand blue whale distribution patterns tied to ocean conditions, prey availability
The researchers who recently discovered a population of blue whales in New Zealand are learning more about the links between the whales, their prey and ocean conditions that are changing as the planet warms.
Mississippi river delta marshes have hit a tipping point, study finds
New research finds that marshes in the Mississippi River Delta have hit a tipping point and will likely drown this century due to sea level rise.
Antarctic ice sheets capable of retreating up to 50 meters per day
The ice shelves surrounding the Antarctic coastline retreated at speeds of up to 50 meters per day at the end of the last Ice Age, far more rapid than the satellite-derived retreat rates observed today, new research has found.
Substantial quantities of tire particles contaminating rivers and ocean
Research reveals vital new information that will improve our scientific understanding of how tiny particles from tires, synthetic fibers from clothing and maritime gear enter the ocean.
Cyclones can damage even distant reefs
Big and strong cyclones can harm coral reefs as far as 1000 kilometers away from their paths, new research shows. A new study sounds a warning about the way strong cyclone winds build extreme seas that affect coral reefs in Australia and around the world.