Cambridge scientists discovered that thin, weak zones in Earth’s plates helped spread Iceland’s mantle plume across the North Atlantic, explaining why volcanic activity once spanned thousands of kilometers. These ancient scars not only shaped the landscape but still influence earthquakes and could point to untapped geothermal energy.
Earth’s safe zones are vanishing fast
A sweeping new study reveals that humanity has already pushed 60% of Earth’s land outside its safe biosphere zone, with 38% in a high-risk state. By analyzing centuries of data, researchers mapped how human demands on biomass—from farming to energy production—have destabilized ecosystems worldwide. Europe, Asia, and North America show...
Panama’s ocean lifeline vanishes for the first time in 40 years
Every year, Panama’s Pacific coast benefits from powerful seasonal winds that drive nutrient-rich waters to the surface, sustaining fisheries and protecting coral reefs. But in 2025, for the first time in at least four decades, this crucial upwelling did not occur. Scientists suspect weakened trade winds linked to climate disruption...
Satellites confirm 1990s sea-level predictions were shockingly accurate
Satellite data reveals sea-level rise has unfolded almost exactly as predicted by 1990s climate models, with one key underestimation: melting ice sheets. Researchers stress the importance of refining local projections as seas continue to rise faster than before.
Baby pterosaurs died in ancient storms—and their fossils reveal the truth
Two tiny pterosaurs, preserved for 150 million years, have revealed a surprising cause of death: violent storms. Researchers at the University of Leicester discovered both hatchlings, nicknamed Lucky and Lucky II, with broken wings—injuries consistent with being tossed through the air by powerful gusts. These storms not only claimed their...
Scientists made plastic that eats carbon
A team of chemists has discovered how to transform PET plastic waste into BAETA, a material that captures CO2 with remarkable efficiency. Instead of ending up as microplastics in the environment, discarded bottles and textiles could become tools to combat climate change. The method is energy-friendly, scalable, and potentially lucrative,...
Even the toughest corals are shrinking in warming seas
Scientists found that Red Sea corals can endure warming seas but grow much smaller and weaken under long-term heat stress. Though recovery is possible in cooler months, rising global temperatures may outpace their resilience, endangering reefs and the people who depend on them.
Oceans could reach a dangerous tipping point by 2050
UC Santa Barbara researchers project that human impacts on oceans will double by 2050, with warming seas and fisheries collapse leading the charge. The tropics and poles face the fastest changes, and coastal regions will be hardest hit, threatening food and livelihoods worldwide.
Ghost sharks grow teeth on their heads to mate
Ghost sharks have evolved rows of true teeth on a bizarre forehead rod used for mating. Fossil and genetic evidence revealed the tenaculum’s teeth develop the same way as those inside the mouth, offering a striking example of evolution’s ability to repurpose biological tools.
Climate Change is Making Rollercoaster Harvests the New Normal
From corn chips to tofu, climate change is messing with the menu.