New UN report finds marine debris harming more than 800 species, costing countries millions
Marine debris is negatively affecting more than 800 animal species and causing serious losses to many countries’ economies, according to a United Nations report launched December 5th, 2016.
Researchers estimate 10,000 metric tons of plastic enter Great Lakes every year
A new study that inventories and tracks high concentrations of plastic in the Great Lakes could help inform cleanup efforts and target pollution prevention. Researchers found that nearly 10,000 metric tons — or 22 million pounds — of plastic debris enter the Great Lakes every year from the United States and Canada.
Exxon Mobil oil spill hits communities in southeast Nigeria
An oil spill from Exxon Mobil Corp facilities in southeast Nigeria’s Akwa Ibom state has hit local communities, affecting farming, fishing and drinking water.
Age-Old Problem: River in Jordan Polluted by Copper 7,000 Years Ago
The first river polluted by humanity may have been discovered in the Wadi Faynan region of southern Jordan, contaminated by copper about 7,000 years ago, a new study finds.
‘This is a 4-alarm fire’: Environmentalists to campaign against Trump’s EPA pick
Environmental advocates say they are shocked and worried after Donald Trump announced Thursday that he had selected Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt, who has denied mainstream climate science, to administer his Environmental Protection Agency.
All Human-Made Objects on Earth Amount to 30 Trillion Tons
Scientists recently discovered that all objects on Earth created by people adds up to an astoundingly large figure. All of these objects are collectively known as Earth’s “technosphere.” Distributed evenly over the planet’s surface, the technosphere would translate into about 110 pounds (50 kilograms) for every 11 square feet (1 square meter).
The victory at Standing Rock could mark a turning point
The defeat of an energy company by indigenous activists shows what nonviolent unity can accomplish. There are lessons here as we enter a challenging new age.
Princess Cruises Hit With Largest-Ever Criminal Penalty For ‘Deliberate Pollution’
The California-based cruise operator, Princess Cruise Lines, will pay a $40 million fine for “deliberate pollution of the seas and intentional acts to cover it up,” according to the Department of Justice, which calls it “the largest-ever criminal penalty involving deliberate vessel pollution.”
Plastic Island: How our throwaway culture is turning paradise into a graveyard
The distance from humanity yawns out in front of you when you stand on the pale sands of this tiny Pacific island. Midway Atoll is just about the furthest piece of land from civilization and its constant engine whir, data and jostle. Standing on the island’s remote shoreline brings a calm and humility — until you look down at your feet.