global ecosystem
Credit: Felton Davis/Flickr
Planet versus plastics: the global battle for a cleaner future
Microplastics are pervasive, from Mount Everest to the Marianas Trench, affecting our air, water and health. How should the world respond to the ever-growing impacts of plastic pollution?
In short:
- Over 400 million metric tons of plastic are produced annually, with only about 5% recycled in the U.S., contributing significantly to pollution and climate change.
- Leaders are currently meeting in Ottawa to design a treaty aimed at combating plastic pollution, reflecting the global push for international cooperation.
- Innovative solutions like bioplastics and traditional materials are being considered to replace harmful plastics, promoting a circular economy.
Key quote:
“There are so many things that we can disagree on. But on this one, we all agree … There is no plastic that should be in nature.”
— Erin Simon, vice president of plastic waste and business at the World Wildlife Fund
Why this matters:
The push for a global treaty and the development of sustainable alternatives indicate a critical shift towards reducing plastic waste and its associated risks. Read more: Everything you need to know for the fourth round of global plastic pollution treaty talks.
In short:
- Over 400 million metric tons of plastic are produced annually, with only about 5% recycled in the U.S., contributing significantly to pollution and climate change.
- Leaders are currently meeting in Ottawa to design a treaty aimed at combating plastic pollution, reflecting the global push for international cooperation.
- Innovative solutions like bioplastics and traditional materials are being considered to replace harmful plastics, promoting a circular economy.
Key quote:
“There are so many things that we can disagree on. But on this one, we all agree … There is no plastic that should be in nature.”
— Erin Simon, vice president of plastic waste and business at the World Wildlife Fund
Why this matters:
The push for a global treaty and the development of sustainable alternatives indicate a critical shift towards reducing plastic waste and its associated risks. Read more: Everything you need to know for the fourth round of global plastic pollution treaty talks.
Keep reading...Show less
Newsletter
Credit: Rover_Thor/Flickr
Climate simulation raises alarm over potential ocean circulation collapse
A recent study by René van Westen showcases how melting Arctic freshwater could disrupt the Atlantic Ocean's circulation, potentially leading to abrupt climate changes.
In short:
- The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), crucial for regulating climate and weather patterns, may be nearing a critical "tipping point" due to increased freshwater from melting ice.
- Historical data and advanced simulations indicate the AMOC has shut down before, with significant global climate implications.
- Recent observations suggest the AMOC is weakening, raising concerns about its stability and the rapid, severe consequences of its potential collapse.
Key quote:
“In simple terms [it] would be a combined food and water security crisis on a global scale.”
— Tim Lenton, climate scientist at the University of Exeter
Why this matters:
Understanding and monitoring the AMOC's stability is vital for predicting future climate changes. A collapse could drastically alter weather patterns, affect global food and water security, and challenge our ability to adapt. Solutions exist but competing interests slow implementation.
Keep reading...Show less
Heavy Meadow Studio
'Rewilding' asks: What will you do after the climate apocalypse?
The upcoming indie game puts you in charge of rebuilding a destroyed ecosystem—not as a hero, but as a gig worker for a profit-hungry corporation.
ORIGINAL REPORTING
MOST POPULAR
CLIMATE
