A dangerous bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, is making a comeback. It's a germ that loves warm, low-salt water and can cause a serious illness called vibriosis. This bacteria is not new, but it's becoming more common, and experts are worried. Vibrio vulnificus is often found in brackish waters, where fresh and saltwater mix. People can get infected by eating raw or unde...
In the heart of the Florida Everglades, a small Native American tribe is making big waves. The Miccosukee Tribe, with fewer than a thousand members, recently won a temporary court victory against the Trump administration. The dispute revolves around a migrant detention center, humorously nicknamed "Alligator Alcatraz, " built on an old airstrip near their reservation...
A massive wildfire, known as the Gifford Fire, is currently ravaging parts of California, specifically the Los Padres National Forest. This fire has already consumed over 72, 000 acres of land, putting hundreds of homes and buildings at risk. The situation is dire, with the fire only 7% contained as of the latest reports. The fire has caused injuries to at least thr...
Pets bring joy and health benefits to our lives. They help us stay active, reduce stress, and keep loneliness at bay. Studies show that interacting with pets can lower blood pressure and improve overall well-being. However, our furry friends also have an environmental impact that we can't ignore. Cats and dogs consume a lot of meat. In the U. S. , they eat about a q...
Air pollution is not just bad for your lungs; it might also be harming your brain. Scientists have found a strong link between certain air pollutants and a higher chance of developing dementia. This is a big deal because dementia already affects millions of people worldwide, and that number is expected to grow. Researchers looked at data from over 29 million people ...
Vanuatu, a small Pacific island nation, is taking a bold step by turning to the world court for help as climate disasters become more frequent and severe. This move is not legally binding, but it could influence future efforts to hold major polluters responsible and secure the funds and actions needed for small island nations to adapt or survive. For decades, Pacifi...
In the aftermath of the Eaton and Palisades fires, a concerning discovery has been made. Beryllium, a toxic metal, has been found in both the burn zones and local homes. This metal, known for its lightweight and strong properties, is often used in high-tech products like aerospace components and golf clubs. However, when heated, it turns into tiny particles that can ...
Inhalers are a lifeline for people with asthma and other lung conditions. They help manage symptoms and keep folks breathing easy. But did you know that not all inhalers are the same? Some use a spray, while others use a dry powder. This difference can affect both the environment and how well the medicine works. Switching to dry-powder inhalers might seem like a goo...
Diquat, a common weedkiller ingredient, is causing concern among health experts. This chemical, found in products like Roundup, is now being used more often as other harmful substances like glyphosate are being phased out. However, research shows that diquat might be even more dangerous than glyphosate. The substance is banned in many countries, including the UK, EU...
Food waste and plastic pollution are two major environmental issues. Scientists have found a clever way to tackle both at once. They used a special bacteria called Stenotrophomonas geniculata to turn food scraps into a useful biopolymer. This biopolymer, called PHBV, is similar to natural rubber. It can be used to make things like plastic bags or packaging. The bact...