Rockweed Rescue

UC Santa Barbara marine scientists to restore rocky intertidal seaweed to boost coastal biodiversity.

Desert Sand could be the next bonanza for desert countries

Researchers have developed a new construction material that, unlike concrete, can be made from round grains of desert sand. Finding an alternative to conventional concrete sand would relieve environmental pressure around the world. But it would be a tragedy if the discovery of the usefulness of this readily available commodity led to an unregulated gold rush.

Non-lethal impacts of seabirds’ plastic ingestion

A new study of seabirds that had ingested plastic debris has revealed a range of non-lethal impacts on their health and physiology. While seabird deaths due to swallowing plastic debris or becoming entangled in it have received global attention, the non-lethal effects on seabirds that survive plastic ingestion are less well-known.

How to restore a coral reef

New guidelines drafted by a consortium of concerned experts could enable corals to adapt to changing environments and help restore declining populations in the Caribbean. The guidelines provide a definitive plan for collecting, raising, and replanting corals that maximizes their potential for adaptation.

Abu Dhabi is replanting mangroves in the fight against climate change

The coastal city of Abu Dhabi is one of the most vulnerable places in the world to the impacts of climate change. It’s threatened by rising sea levels and researchers say it could be too hot to live in by the end of this century if global warming trends continue. But mangroves trees are helping the city fight the climate crisis…