An ancient mountain cave in the Pyrenees may have served as one of the earliest high-altitude mining camps ever discovered, with evidence of repeated visits spanning thousands of years. The find becomes even more intriguing with the discovery of a child’s remains and clues that deeper excavations could uncover prehistoric...
When Too Much of a Good Thing Becomes Dangerous
In the absence of human interference, the soil beneath the world’s forests normally exhales carbon steadily and consistently.
Tire Pollution May Threaten Human Health, Study Finds
Tiny particles of rubber cast off by car tires, which have long been known to harm wildlife, may also pose a risk to humans, according to a new study.
Dishwashing With Side Effects: Kitchen Sponges Release Microplastics
Kitchen sponges are among the most frequently used household items – and may also represent a previously underestimated source of microplastics.
Coal Pollution is Cutting Solar Power Output, Study Finds
The new study mapped and assessed more than 140,000 solar PV installations worldwide using satellite data.
Environmental Engineers Reshape Understanding of Airborne Pollution Particles
From sizzling bacon in the kitchen to wildfire smoke in the sky, cooking and pollution release microscopic particles that affect humans' health, the air they breathe, and even weather and climate.
Carbon Dioxide and Water Played Key Role in Historic Mount Etna Eruption
The plumbing systems of volcanos are vast and complex. But they aren’t consistent, even in the same volcano.
The secret underground system keeping the Grand Canyon alive
Scientists are venturing into the Grand Canyon’s hidden cave networks to solve a mystery: how snowmelt travels underground to supply the park’s vital springs. Their discoveries could help protect the canyon’s water from drought, contamination, and other growing threats.
A hidden pollutant is changing how the world’s forests breathe
A massive global analysis found that nitrogen pollution can either speed up or dramatically slow the natural "breathing" of forest soils, depending on the ecosystem's condition. The results reveal hidden tipping points that could affect how forests store carbon and cope with climate change.
This blood-feeding fly sacrifices its sight after finding a host
Deer keds rely on flight and vision to find a host, but everything changes once they land. After shedding their wings forever, these parasites reduce the activity of key vision-related genes by about half. Scientists believe they are effectively trading sharp eyesight for extra energy that can be used for...