The global demand for cobalt and lithium for e-car batteries is expected to increase almost 20-fold by 2050, according to a recent study published in Nature Climate Change. Additionally, the development of a fossil-free power supply will require a significant amount of copper, aluminum, and iron, with the respective demand likely to double. Rare earth
Earth
In a groundbreaking new study led by researchers from Curtin University, evidence has emerged that freshwater on Earth, a vital component for sustaining life, actually appeared much earlier than previously believed. The research, titled “Onset of the Earth’s hydrological cycle four billion years ago or earlier,” was recently published in the prestigious journal Nature Geoscience.
Methane is a greenhouse gas that is significantly more potent than carbon dioxide, approximately 25 times more powerful. When methane combines with water at low temperatures and high pressure, it forms methane hydrate, a solid compound similar to ice. These methane hydrate deposits are abundant under the seafloor, storing at least 1,800 gigatons of carbon.
The history of Earth is marked by several significant events that shaped the course of life as we know it today. Among these events, the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event stands out as a pivotal moment in evolutionary history. This 30-million-year period saw an explosive burst of biodiversity, with the emergence of countless new species that
Scientists at UC Riverside have made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the way water providers tackle the issue of “forever chemicals” in drinking water. These chemicals, known as PFAS (poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances), have been a growing concern due to their adverse health effects and contamination of groundwater. With new federal standards limiting PFAS
Freshwater mussels, known for their ability to stay in one place for decades, play a crucial role as biomonitors in indicating the cleanliness of their environment. Researchers from Penn State have conducted a study on the effects of fracking wastewater on these mussels, revealing some concerning findings. The study conducted by Penn State’s Department of
The urbanization trend in Africa is rapidly increasing, with no signs of slowing down. Research has shown that the urban population in Africa has more than doubled since the early 2000s, reaching over 600 million in 2020. Experts predict that by 2050, the urban population will double again. This rapid urban growth is accompanied by
The Salton Sea, formed in 1905 due to the overflow of the Colorado River, has been dwindling in size over the years. This reduction in size has led to increased salt content in the lake, making it saltier than the Pacific Ocean. As a result, wildlife habitats have been harmed, and localized air pollution has
The battle against climate change often involves the use of farmland, where the production of food competes with the cultivation of energy crops and the installation of solar panels. Unfortunately, this clash can sometimes lead to harmful consequences, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions. However, there is hope on the horizon with the development of