Soil tainted by air pollution expels carbon
New research suggests nitrogen released by gas-powered machines causes dry soil to let go of carbon and release it back into the atmosphere, where it can contribute to climate change.
Science & Technology
1. 5-degree goal not plausible: Social change more important than physical tipping points
Limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is currently not plausible, as is shown in a new, central study. Climate policy, protests, and the Ukraine crisis: the participating researchers systematically assessed to what extent social changes are al…
China’s stricter clean heating policies may have saved thousands of lives
China’s stricter clean heating policies have improved air quality in northern China, particularly in Beijing and surrounding cities — potentially reducing 23,000 premature deaths due to air pollution in 2021 than in 2015, a new study reveals.
Over 4% of summer mortality in European cities is attributable to urban heat islands
Over four percent of deaths in cities during the summer months are due to urban heat islands, and one third of these deaths could be prevented by reaching a tree cover of 30%, according to a modelling study. The study results, obtained with data from 9…
Why reflecting on your values before opening your mouth makes for happier relationships
A new psychology study finds that if people are asked to reflect on their life values before engaging in discussions, debates are more convivial and harmonious.