Shirley Gregory
I earned a geology degree from Northwestern University, and have written for The Chicago Tribune, Daily Journal, internet.com, Web Hosting Magazine, and other magazines, newspapers and Internet publications. I live in Florida with my husband and son, 6.
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- 8/18/2006
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Northwestern University, BS
Displaying Results 1 - 200 (of 370) for Yahoo! Voices
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Six Creatures that Show Evolution in ActionResearchers have seen the evidence for evolution in the laboratory and in nature, where different species have been observed to take on new characteristics, sometimes over the course of just a few generations. -
Eight Things You Might Not Know About Killer AsteroidsThe solar system is home to numerous asteroids, comets and other objects that sometimes come close to Earth, and have even impacted our planet with devastating consequences in the past. -
Eight Things You Didn't Know About MethaneMethane is making the news a lot lately, in both a good and a bad way: it's a dangerous greenhouse gas, but also a source of energy. -
About Platinum, Uranium and Other 'Endangered' MetalsRising global demand for electronics and other high-tech devices is putting a strain on supplies of several key metals, including platinum, copper, indium and uranium. -
Amazing New Animal Discoveries: Scientists Find Chubby Dolphins, Small SnakesResearchers around the globe continue to discover new species of insects, reptiles, fish, mammals and more. -
Ten Things You Might Not Know About SoilThere's a lot more to "ordinary soil" than meets the eye. -
Reports Showing Increasing Global Warning Signs in OceansScientists are finding a growing number of troubling threats to ocean health and biodiversity.
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Weird Ways to Harness Sun PowerResearchers continue to find new and innovative ways to tap the sun for electricity, heat and energy. -
10 Things You Might Not Know About EthanolTurning corn into ethanol for fuel might not create energy independence or help the environment as much as once thought. -
10 Things You Didn't Know About OilInteresting and often lesser-known facts about oil and its sources, uses and costs. -
Finding Natural, Local Foods in Northwest FloridaFew things taste better than a juicy, red tomato fresh off the vine, or a sweet, red strawberry picked at its peak.
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Plagues of Climate Change: Bugs, Beasts that may Thrive on WarmingScientists worry that warmer global temperatures might increase the risk of voracious insects, diseases, social stresses and storms. -
Ten Things You Didn't Know About BiodieselWith the cost of regular, fossil fuel-based, diesel passing $4.419 per gallon, diesel-dependent drivers across the U.S. are feeling a painful financial pinch, and economy-minded tinkerers are brewing their own biodiesel fuel from used cooking oil. -
Online Computing Becomes an Energy Hog: Consumption, Emissions Are Rising FastThe growing demand for online services is causing data center energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions to rise rapidly.
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What Your Nails Say About Your HealthChanges in the shape, texture or color of your fingernails or toenails can indicate a health problem you might not be aware of.
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Going Solar: From FedEx to Antarctic ResearchersThe number of businesses and individuals harnessing solar energy continues to grow as concerns mount over oil prices and climate change.
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Top 10 Endangered Foods: Future Meals Might Miss These IngredientsSome of your favorite foods might not be available in the future, as many essential crops are threatened by diseases, pollution and other dangers.
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Hydropower 2.0 - Weird Ways to Generate Energy From WaterScientists seeking ways to provide clean, renewable energy are exploring new technologies for water-generated power.
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Five Easy Ways to Go Solar Fast - Start Harnessing Sun PowerSimple projects you can build today to use sun power for heating, cooking and more.
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Build Your Own Solar-Powered CarAn introduction to resources to help you design and build your own solar-powered vehicle, large or small. -
Leaders to Assess "State of the Planet"Some of the world's top scientists, diplomats and economists will gather at Columbia University this week to discuss Earth's human and environmental problems and to identify possible solutions. -
Five Reasons for Drinking Red WineA growing body of scientific research is finding numerous health benefits from drinking red wine. -
Climate Change News You Might Have MissedRecent discoveries and warnings about how climate change might affect people and the planet.
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Florida Residential Real Estate "Stabilizing"The latest quarterly survey from the University of Florida shows signs the single-family housing market in Florida might be starting to rebound.
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Innovations in Solar EnergySolar energy offers lots of promise for reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
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Nanotechnology: Too Small to See, but All Around YouYou might or might not be familiar with the concept of nanotechnology, but you've probably already encountered nano-based products of one form or another. -
Top 10 Things I Learned From In Defense of Food: An Eater's ManifestoTips for healthful, satisfying eating from Michael Pollan's latest book, "In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto." -
Festival Celebrates Owl Hall of FameThe International Festival of Owls wrapped up this year's activities by honoring one owl and six people for their work in educating the public about owls and protecting owl welfare.
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Leap Day Marks Year of the FrogThis week marks not only Leap Day but the official "leap-off" of the Year of the Frog, a global campaign aimed at protecting the endangered populations of frogs and other amphibians around the world. -
Three Mile Island Seeks Nuclear Facility Longer LifeThe operators of the functioning reactor at the Three Mile Island nuclear facilities are seeking a 20-year extension of their license. -
How Are Humans Changing Nature?Scientists will meet on Thursday, Feb. 28, to discuss how human activities are affecting nature in different parts of the world. -
Humans Impact Oceans Worldwide: Fishing, Farming, Pollution Harm Sea LifeScientists are increasingly realizing how much human activity is affecting the world's oceans ... usually for the worse.
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Animal Species Under ThreatNumerous species around the world are being threatened by mass die-offs, including bees, birds and bats. -
Group to Presidential Candidates: Say Yes to Science DebateScience Debate 2008 organizers are urging supporters to contact the U.S. presidential candidates' campaigns and urge them to take part in a debate on science policy.
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10 Things You Didn't Know About DungThere's more to animal droppings than meets the eye ... or nose. -
Scientists: Keep Science Free of PoliticsA growing chorus of scientists and science advocates across the U.S. is calling for an end for political interference in scientific matters.
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Florida Catching Up to Solar PowerFlorida has long lagged behind less-sunny states in its adoption of solar power, but it's starting to catch up and do more to encourage the development of clean energy and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
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Carbon Dioxide Affects More Than ClimateA growing body of scientific research is discovering new ways in which rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels might affect life on Earth.
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Group Calls for Presidential Science Debate: Says Climate, Energy, Health Are KeyA grassroots initiative called Science Debate 2008 is seeking support for a public debate on science and technology issues as part of the 2008 U.S. presidential race.
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Solar Power Advances Keep Coming in 2008A number of new advances, including a new energy conversion efficiency record, continue to make solar power more efficient and cost-effective. -
Humans Push Earth to Tipping Point: Small Changes Could Create Dramatic ResultsA growing body of scientific research indicates that human-caused global warming could push the Earth past a tipping point into dramatic and irreversible change.
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Southwest's Water Future DimScientists and water resource experts warn the U.S. Southwest can expect continued, and worsening, drought conditions in the coming years.
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More Corporations Consider Climate ChangeMore than 3,000 corporations around the world are being asked to provide details on how they are addressing climate change; however, a recent poll finds many business leaders are still failing to consider climate change a priority. -
Growing Movement Fights Soft DrinksA growing number of health and consumer watchdog groups are working to reduce the consumption of soft drinks, especially by children, to help fight a growing global trend of obesity. -
Green Groups Decry Arctic Drilling PlansThe U.S. Minerals Management Service this week plans to sell oil and gas drilling leases for the Chukchi Sea off the Alaska coast. -
Banking on the Earth's Food Crop FutureAround the world, seed banks and seed exchanges are working to preserve food-crop seeds from regional disasters, war, climate change and the monoculture of industrial-style agriculture. -
Climate Talks Aim for Better PredictionWeather experts from around the globe are meeting in Geneva for the first time this week to begin setting an agenda for next year's World Climate Conference.
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Top Five Unnatural Foods: Clone Burgers Not yet on ListThe U.S.D.A.'s recent announcement that meat from cloned animals was safe for human consumption doesn't mean clone burgers will be the first unnatural food most of us have eaten.
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Climate Activists Seek to 'Focus the Nation'Organizers of "Focus the Nation" seek to hold the largest teach-in in U.S. history on Thursday, Jan. 31, with a focus on global warming and solutions to climate change. -
Human Changes Alter Earth's GeologyA growing body of research indicates that human changes to the planet are so significant that we've created a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene. -
Tapping the Gulf Stream for EnergyScientists and engineers at Florida Atlantic University's Center of Excellence in Ocean Energy Technology are developing a prototype system of deep-sea turbines that could tap the Gulf Stream as a clean source of energy.
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Environmentalists Seek Protection for Giant Palouse WormConservation groups are suing to win Endangered Species Act protection for the giant Palouse earthworm, which is native to Washington and Idaho.
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More Hurricanes or Fewer in Warming World?Scientists remain uncertain about whether climate change will mean more and stronger hurricanes in the future.
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World's Poor Feel More Environmental PainResearchers and world leaders say the world's wealthiest countries create ecological problems that disproportionately affect the poorest around the globe.
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Report: Katrina Response Fails International StandardsA special report from the Institute for Southern Studies finds the U.S. government has failed to live up to international human rights standards in its handling of the massive displacements caused by Hurricane Katrina. -
The Nuclear Problem: Phasing Out Reactors Would Worsen Global WarmingFailing to replace today's nuclear reactors with either new plants or an equivalent capacity of clean alternatives could help accelerate rising carbon dioxide emissions and climate change, experts fear. -
Harnessing Landfills for EnergyA growing number of projects are seeking to capture methane gas emissions from landfills, and use the gas to provide a source of clean, renewable energy. -
Western Antarctic Losing More IceRecent research finds that Antarctica, like the northern polar regions, is seeing shrinking ice cover as the climate warms.
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Nuclear Energy Sees Growing SupportA growing number of policy-makers, scientists and others are advocating a shift to nuclear power as a way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and curb climate change. -
'Tropical' Disease Dengue Could Impact United StatesScientists and public health experts warn climate change could make once-tropical diseases like dengue more of a threat to the U.S. -
MESSENGER to Reveal MercuryThe MESSENGER spacecraft will make its first flyby over the planet Mercury on Monday, Jan.14. -
2008 Likely to See Increase in Solar StormsScientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say a new sunspot in the sun's Northern Hemisphere could indicate the start of a new 11-year cycle of solar storms that can interfere with cellphones, GPS systems, ATMs and other satellite-based technology. -
'Deep Impact' in Real Life: Scientists Track Asteroid ThreatsScientists at NASA's Near Earth Object Program regularly track asteroids and comets that come close to the Earth's orbit; they are also watching an asteroid that might collide with Mars next month. -
Is the World Facing 'Peak Food'?Global grain reserves are down and food prices are up, as a "perfect storm" of global trends threatens world food supplies, especially for the poor. -
Cold Enough to Start Shivering?Researchers at the Oregon Health and Science University have traced the pathways leading from the skin to an area of the brain that decides when it's time to start shivering. -
1998 - 2007 Warmest Decade on RecordThe World Meteorological Organization reports that the decade just ending has been the warmest on record globally. -
Buried Roman Town Caistor Reveals SecretsUsing a cesium vapor magnetometer, researchers have been able to create detailed maps of a buried Roman town in the U.K.
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Watch for Fructose Instead of StarchesA research team at the University of Florida has found that fructose might have a greater impact on weight and health than glucose from starchy foods like bread. -
Arctic Seas Warm as Ice ShrinksResearchers at the University of Washington report that some parts of the Arctic Ocean saw surface water temperatures up to 9 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than average this past summer. -
Giant Mud Waves Found on Arctic Sea FloorResearch teams aboard two Arctic icebreaker expeditions in 2005 and 2007 found giant waves of mud along the sea floor, as well as evidence of past undersea glaciers that scraped huge gouges into the bottom. -
U.S. Needs Better Nuclear Power Safety, Report FindsA report from the Union of Concerned Scientists says the U.S. needs to improve its safety and security standards before considering expanded nuclear power as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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Humans Still Evolving, Research FindsResearch published this week finds that human evolution has been ongoing and rapid, especially since the invention of agriculture and the growth of population. -
Sensors to Monitor Antarctic 24/7A project called POLENET will gather data year-round from a network of newly placed GPS trackers and seismic sensors across the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. -
Website Lets Surfers Join Panda ExpeditionA Michigan State University Website will feature video clips and photos taken by a researcher tracking pandas in China to fit them with GPS-equipped collars. -
Project Aims to Catalog Island EcosystemA team of researchers is setting out on a three-year effort to catalog every species of animal, plant and fungus on the South Pacific island of Moorea. -
Human Fossil Shows Signs of TuberculosisAn international research team has found signs of tuberculosis infection in a 500,000-year-old Homo erectus skull found in western Turkey. -
Teens Name Global Warming Top ConcernAn online survey by Greenpeace International and the virtual teen community Habbo found that a majority of teens name climate change as their top concern. -
New Australian Center Targets Climate ChangeTwo research agencies in Australia have joined forces to create a new center focused on Australian climate and weather research. -
Theory Explores How Molecules Became CellsThe National Science Foundation reports that researcher Helen Hansma has developed a new hypothesis for the first origins of life on Earth. -
Tests Find Asbestos in "CSI" ToyThe Environmental Working Group is calling on toy stores to recall Planet Toys CSI: Crime Scene Investigation™ Fingerprint Examination Kits, which have been found to contain asbestos.
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Groundwater Might ID Geothermal Energy SourcesResearchers have found that unusually high ratios of helium-3 to helium-4 in groundwater might indicate potential sources of geothermal energy below.
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New U.S. Geological Survey Web Site Provides Post-Wildfire Guidance for CaliforniansThe U.S. Geological Survey has launched a new online tool with fact sheets, tracking tools, photos, videos and links to help southern California residents deal with the impacts of recent wildfires.
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Seeding Oceans Might Not Lock Up CarbonNew research finds that trying to increase the amount of algae in oceans doesn't increase the amount of algae-absorbed carbon that sinks deep underwater.
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Foie Gras a 'Diseased' Food, Animal Welfare Groups SaySeveral animal welfare groups have petitioned the U.S. Department of Agriculture seeking to declare foie gras a "diseased food" unfit for human consumption. -
Middle-Class Families in United States At Financial RiskA report from Demos and Brandeis University uses a new index to assess the financial health and stability of middle-class families in the United States.
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20 States Get "F" Grades for School Food PoliciesThe Center for Science in the Public Interest has released its 2007 report card that grades U.S. states on their school nutrition policies. -
Group Urges FDA to Reduce Salt in U.S. FoodsThe Center for Science in the Public Interest is urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to do more to reduce salt in foods; too much sodium is blamed for 150,000 deaths a year in the U.S.
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Drought Leaves More CO2 in AtmosphereResearchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found that the 2002 drought across North America cut the continent's natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide in half. -
Program Aims to Preserve Endangered LanguagesThe National Science Foundation is making its Documenting Endangered Languages program permanent in an effort to preserve many languages in danger of dying out soon. -
Court Decision Preserves Salmon ProtectionsConservation groups are cheering the Bush administration's withdrawal of its appeal in a lawsuit challenging changes to environmental protections for salmon. -
Nanotech Safety Needs Better OversightEnvironmental Defense recommends the federal government should set up a system similar to that used for nuclear power to ensure the same agency isn't responsible for both promoting and overseeing nanotechnology.
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California Wildfire Disaster Teaches Some, Not OthersA study by the National Science Foundation finds California officials will have to address two different responses to last month's wildfires: some people will take measures to prevent future damage, while others will do nothing because they believe the "worst is over."
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More Clouds Means Fewer Frogs?A joint study by the University of Manchester and The Manchester Museum finds Costa Rican tree frogs might have unique skin properties that allow them to benefit from "sunbathing" that kills a lethal fungus. -
Why Budget for Water?The U.S. Geological Survey has issued a report explaining the importance of accurate water budgets for current and future water use.
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Viruses from Yellowstone National Park and Elsewhere Travel Far, IndependentlyScientists studying viral populations in the hot springs of Yellowstone National Park find the viruses can travel miles from spring to spring without their microbial hosts.
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Groups Seek 'Endangered' Status for LoggerheadsThe Center for Biological Diversity and Oceana have filed a petition asking federal officials to boost protection for the western North Atlantic loggerhead sea turtle from "threatened" to "endangered." -
Climate Changing Faster Than PredictedA report from The Climate Institute in Australia finds that new scientific data indicates the International Panel on Climate Change's last report probably underestimates the speed of global warming.
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Alternative Fuel 'Carbs' Count, Report SaysA report from the Union of Concerned Scientists says it's important to take into account an alternative fuel's start-to-finish impact on greenhouse gas emissions. While tailpipe emissions from liquid coal are similar to ethanol's, coal's impact on pollution is worse.
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Efficiency Could Help Offset Energy DemandsThe National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency has released "Vision for 2025: Developing a Framework for Change," a guide to help policy-makers institute cost-effective energy-efficiency improvements. -
Robot Network Watches World's OceansAn international research project has deployed a network of 3,000 underwater robots in oceans around the globe to provide ongoing data for ocean, climate and fisheries research. -
Offshore Fish Farms 'Not Ready for Primetime'A study by Food & Water Watch examines four government-funded offshore fish farms and concludes that open ocean aquaculture is neither environmentally friendly nor economically viable.
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Astronomers Discover HIP 56948, Best 'Solar Twin' YetAstronomers using the McDonald Observatory in Texas have identified a star that's more physically and chemically similar to the Sun than any previously discovered "solar twin." -
Climate Change a "Public Health Threat"The American Public Health Association this week announced a major new initiative to address the public health threats created by climate change.
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World's Energy Future Needs Fast ActionThe International Energy Agency's new report, "World Energy Outlook 2007," says the fast economic growth of China and India require other countries around the world to act now to ensure future energy security.
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A Single Extinction Affects ManyA team of international researchers has found that natural systems in which some plants become extinct can lose up to half their overall productivity.
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Rising Seas Threaten Drinking Water SuppliesResearchers at Ohio State University found that rising sea levels could contaminate underground supplies of fresh water more than previously thought. -
Green Collars the Future of EmploymentA report from the American Solar Energy Society predicts as many as 40 million Americans could be employed in renewable-energy or energy-efficiency industries by 2030, if policy-makers launch an aggressive campaign to grow green businesses. -
Universe Might Weigh Much Less than We ThinkA research team theorizes that some of the x-rays coming from inside galaxy clusters are caused by electrons and photons colliding, not by gases; because electrons are much smaller than gas atoms, that means the universe's mass might be much less than previously believed. -
Kentucky Weapons Depot Cited for ViolationsThe Kentucky Department of Environmental Protection has cited the Blue Grass Army Depot for environmental violations, and forwarded evidence of possible criminal activity to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Kentucky inspector general.
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Saving Energy Can Encourage More ConsumptionA report from the UK Energy Research Centre finds governments are overestimating how much energy can be saved through improved energy efficiency; sometimes, more fuel-efficient cars, for example, can cause people to drive more than before.
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Groups Target Organic Fish StandardsMore than 40 environmental and food-safety groups have signed a letter asking the National Organic Standards Board not to adopt recommendations that would allow organic-labeled fish to be fed wild fishmeal and kept in net-pens open to the wild. -
U.S. Drought Portal Offers Maps, Info on Dry Weather ImpactThe federal government has unveiled a new U.S. Drought Portal that provides online maps, information, photos, planning resources and educational links related to drought conditions across the country. -
Oil, Gas Drilling Creates Health HazardsThe Natural Resources Defense Council released a report detailing the health and environmental problems caused by regulatory loopholes for oil and gas drilling, which is rapidly expanded in Western states. -
New Tracker Shows United States Nuclear Reactors, Safety RecordsThe Union of Concerned Scientists has unveiled its new Nuclear Power Information Tracker, which lets users view the locations and past safety problems of various nuclear power plants across the U.S. -
Buried Stumps Emerge as Glaciers Retreat Due to Global Warming, Says Geological Association of AmericaA geologist discovered that retreating glaciers in Canada have left behind near-pristine stumps from trees buried under the ice some 7,000 years ago. -
Climate Change Will Hit Kids HardestA report from the American Academy of Pediatrics outlines ways in which climate change will create increased health threats for children, and advises pediatricians on how to address those threats. -
Recalls Don't Catch All Products with LeadConsumer Reports conducted a four-month investigation that found lead in many consumer products that have not come up for recall. -
'Dump Soda' Global Campaign Goes After 'Liquid Candy'An international coalition of consumers groups is advocating a ban on soda marketing to children, an end to soft-drink sales in schools and a soda tax to support nutrition and exercise programs. -
Great Lakes Seeing More PrecipitationThe U.S. Geological Survey has found that rain and snow over the Great Lakes Basin have increased by more than 4 inches over the past 90 years.
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Australia to Create Online Encyclopedia of LifeAustralia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization has named Donald Hobern its first director for its Atlas of Living Australia project. -
Study Ties Methane Spike to Melting Ice Age PermafrostA multi-institution study finds that much of the methane to enter the atmosphere suddenly at the end of the last ice age might have come from arctic lakes created as permafrost melted.
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Toddlers Are Getting Rocket Fuel in Water, FoodThe Environmental Working Group analyzed federal data to determine that 1 in 16 one-year-olds are being exposed to daily, unsafe levels of perchlorate, the explosive ingredient in solid rocket fuel.
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Poll: Work, Money, Housing Stressing AmericansA survey by the American Psychological Association finds about half of Americans believe their levels of stress have increased over the past five years, with work, money and housing being the primary causes for concern.
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No Cash for Holidays? Try These Free Gift IdeasSix ideas for creating or getting free gifts to give to friends and family this holiday season. -
Project Sunrise's Jumbo Balloon Seeks Sun's SecretsAn international effort known as Project Sunrise aims to send a solar telescope high into the atmosphere to capture unprecedented images of the sun's surface. -
'Smart Growth' Depends on Community-Building in Right LocationsA study published in a journal of the Ecological Society of America finds that clustered developments can minimize habitat loss, but that some areas are too environmentally sensitive to make good locations for clustered communities.
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Carbon Emissions, Intensity Both on the RiseA multi-institution study reports that carbon dioxide levels are rising both in absolute amounts and intensity, while the natural ability of land and oceans to absorb carbon dioxide is decreasing. -
Peak Oil is HereThe Energy Watch Group on Monday released an analysis indicating that global oil production peaked last year and will begin declining by several percent annually. -
Action Needed Now to Secure Energy FutureA report released today by the InterAcademy Council urges immediate action to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and increase renewable energy technologies to avoid dangerous climate change and global conflict over unevenly distributed energy supplies.
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Industries Pollute Faraway Rain and SnowA USGS study finds that much of the nitrate pollution falling in rain and snow in the Northeast and Midwest comes from coal-fired power plants and other industrial sources hundreds of miles away.
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A Dry Winter is ComingThe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts the Southeast and Southwest will continue to see drought conditions this winter, and much of the country will be warmer-than-average. -
Are U.S.-Grown Golden Gourmet Mushrooms Organic?A complaint by the Government Accountability Project is asking the USDA's National Organic Program to investigate possible mislabeling of organic mushrooms by a company in California. -
September Heat Worsens Droughts across the United StatesThe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that September saw more than 1,000 broken records for heat, with worsening drought in more than half of the U.S. -
Study Shows Subjects Overestimate Sleep TimeAn article in this week's issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine reports that sleep subjects regularly overestimate how long they sleep each night. -
Treasury Chief Warns of Ongoing Housing TroublesU.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson today described how the housing market is not bouncing back as quickly as once expected, and called for government action to avoid future repeats of the current subprime mortgage fallout. -
Schwarzenegger Says No to Restaurant Nutrition LabelsCalifornia Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a bill that would have required chain restaurants in the state to post nutritional information on menus or menu boards; he signed into law several other bills, including a ban on phthalates in baby toys.
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Cows Get Blamed Again for Global WarmingA study in Germany indicates the practice of allowing cows onto pastures during winter encourages the growth of methane-emitting microorganisms in the soil -
Research Shows Whales' Surprising TravelsResearchers are using satellite data from tagged humpback whales to learn more about how the creatures migrate from the South Pacific to their feeding grounds in the Antarctic.
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One of Three Lipsticks High in LeadIndependent laboratory testing of 33 brand-name lipsticks showed one-third had levels of lead higher than those allowed in candy for children, according to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.
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Oregon Researchers to Study Toxic Algae BloomsThe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration awarded Oregon-based researchers nearly a half-million dollars to start a five-year project to improve the monitoring and prediction of toxic blooms of algae.
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Air Pollution Threatens Europeans' HealthA report from the European Environment Agency calls for a more reliable and shared system for communicating environmental information across the entire pan-European region.
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EPA to Develop Sequestration, Greenhouse Gas Emission RegulationsThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced plans to develop a regulatory system for geologic sequestration, a process that involves injecting carbon dioxide emissions into rock formations deep underground to keep them out of the atmosphere.
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Score One for Albatross, One for SalmonDecisions announced today by the environmental law firm Earthjustice could spell improved protection for the struggling black-footed albatross and Oregon Coast coho salmon populations.
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Ethanol Production Creates Water, Health RisksA National Research Council committee found that growing more corn for ethanol could stress water supplies and create increased health and environmental risks.
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'Megadroughts' Once Left Tropical Africa Desert-LikeResearchers from the University of Arizona found signs of repeated "megadroughts" in tropical Africa between 135,000 and 90,000 years ago; the climate could explain why human populations crashed, then later migrated out of Africa.
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Genetically Modified Corn Could Hurt Aquatic SystemsA team of researchers found signs of GM corn pollen in nearby streams; the team also found GM pollen and leaves causes less growth and, in high levels, increased mortality among the aquatic caddisfly, a source of food for fish and amphibians.
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American Electric Power Utility Company Agrees to Record SettlementAEP, which operates 25 coal-fired electric plants in the U.S., has agreed to a landmark settlement in which it will spend $4.6 to reduce pollution from its facilities.
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Online Poll Shows Positive Attitude Toward Organic FoodHarris Interactive says the results of its online poll indicates the organic food market will continue to grow. -
Institute of Medicine Honors Husband-Wife TeamAt its 37th annual meeting today, the Institute of Medicine honored Betty and David Hamburg for lifelong achievement in mental health research.
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Appendix Might Be Useful After AllResearchers at Duke University Medical Center theorize that the human appendix might protect the good bacteria needed for digestion, and help repopulate the intestines with that bacteria after a severe illness.
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Protein Change Could Make Bird Flu DeadlierResearchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified a key protein change that could make it easier for the bird flu virus to infect by person-to-person.
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Green Groups Order San Diego Utility to Meet Energy Standards by 2010Two conservation groups have asked the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to require San Diego Gas & Electric to get 20 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2010, according to news from the Center for Biological Diversity.
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USDA Finds Contaminants in Commercial Rice SupplyInvestigators with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have found that trace amounts of genetically engineered rice made their way into two commercial varieties of long-grain rice, according to a USDA press release.
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A Green Look for Halloween: Six Ideas for Eco-Themed CostumesSuggestions for environmentally oriented Halloween costumes. -
U.S. Fails to Track Critical MineralsA study by the National Research Council identified several minerals that are critical to the U.S. economy and military effectiveness, and recommends ways to ensure better supplies in case of shortfalls, threats or sudden growth in demand.
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Kids Don't Get Enough Calcium from MilkPenn State researchers find most children don't consume the recommended daily requirements of dairy products, but do eat too many whole-fat dairy products. -
Scientists Get Hands-On Look at San Andreas FaultRock samples taken from more than 2.5 miles below the surface now enable geologists to see what the San Andreas Fault is made of. -
Utah Dig Reveals "Arnold Schwarzenegger" of DinosaursUtah scientists this week unveiled a new species of duck-billed dinosaur found in the Grand Staircase region of Utah. -
Some Diets Better for Heart Than OthersResearchers found that the Ornish, Weight Watchers High Carb and New Glucose Revolution weight-loss plans were most effective at reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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NOAA Now Predicts Pollution for Most Big CitiesThe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has expanded its ozone forecasting capabilities to include most big cities across the U.S.
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Polls Show Demand for Revamped Farm BillPolling in five states show people would think better of Congress if the 2007 Farm Bill set aside more money for conservation and allocated less for crop subsidies, according to Environmental Defense.
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U.S. Communities Could Face Water CrisesFood & Water Watch is calling for a national Clean Water Trust Fund to ensure that critical clean-water projects around the country receive adequate funding.
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Looking for Heart-Healthy Omega-3s?The Center for Science in the Public Interest reports that many food products claiming to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids don't live up to the hype.
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Coral Reef Fund Announces $3.5 Million in GrantsThe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has announced funding for 29 coral reef conservation, protection and education projects in the U.S. and overseas.
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Sudden Climate Change Didn't Kill Off NeanderthalsAn international research team has mapped together climatic, geologic and paleontological data to conclude that the climate did not change suddenly at times the Neanderthals are believed to have gone extinct.
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Researchers Find Earliest Signs of Oxygen on EarthScientists have found signs of the first oxygen in Earth's atmosphere and oceans in rocks some 2.5 billion years old.
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Trim Your Food Budget and Your WaistlineIdeas for cutting costs at the grocery store and eating healthier meals at home.
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U.S. Proposal Would Tax Carbon EmissionsCongressman John Dingell (D, Michigan) is seeking public comments on his proposal to tax carbon-based fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and raise funds for renewable energy research.
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Organic and Fair-Trade Halloween TreatsA guide to Halloween treats from fair-trade candy-makers and other companies that work to help the environment or benefit others. -
Volunteers Needed for New Orleans RebuildingA collective formed after New Orleans was flooded is seeking skilled laborers to help with its Ninth Ward home reconstruction efforts. -
Sierra Club Chooses Al Gore for Top '07 AwardThe Sierra Club has announced the winners of its 2007 National Awards, with the top honor going to former vice president Al Gore for his work to build awareness of global warming.
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Southwest Streams Show Improved Water QualityA study by the U.S. Geological Survey has found that the level of dissolved salts and other solids in streams and groundwater has declined at many sites in the American Southwest over the past two decades.
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LA Times Writers Win Top Environmental PrizeTwo reporters with the Los Angeles Times today received the Grantham Prize for Excellence in Reporting on the Environment, the world's largest cash prize for journalism.
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Play Video Games, Lose Weight?University of Houston computer science professor Ioannis Pavlidis has developed a PDA-based video game system that links daily physical activity, from foot-tapping to stair-walking, to video-game action and points.
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New Law to "Shine Light" on FDA Drug ApprovalsThe Food and Drug Administration Revitalization Act approved by the U.S. House this week calls for online data publishing of drug trials, reduced conflicts of interest in advisory panels.
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Peace Day Highlight is Worldwide Minute of Silence at NoonThousands of events around the world are planned today, Sept. 21, to observe the International Day of Peace.
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Petition Seeks Better Climate Change Info for InvestorsA group of 22 investors, environmental groups and public interest organizations has filed a petition asking the Securities and Exchange Commission to require companies to fully disclose the potential financial risks they face from climate change.
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Traffic Getting Worse in U.S. CitiesThe "2007 Urban Mobility Report" finds that traffic is growing heavier in all 437 of the country's urban areas, wasting 2.9 billion gallons of gas and 4.2 billion hours in lost time.
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Enjoy Your Food to Maintain Healthy WeightPenn State research finds that people who have a positive attitude toward food and eating, and eat what they enjoy, have healthier weights and better nutrition.
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Coal Waste Pollutes Pennsylvania Groundwater, StreamsA study by the Clean Air Task Force and Earthjustice finds toxic chemicals seeping into water near coal mines used to dispose coal ash from power plants.
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Report Calls for Global Network of "National Sea Parks"A new study by the Worldwatch Institute says a global, ecosystem-based approach is needed to protect the world's dwindling wild fish stocks.
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Schwarzenegger, Gun Owners, Environmentalists Battle Over Lead-Based AmmoA controversy is brewing in California over a proposed bill to restrict lead-based ammunition in areas occupied by the endangered condor.
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Greenpeace Cheers Eco-Friendly Coke MachinesCoca-Cola has committed to installing only energy-efficient coolers and vending machines at its many venues during the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.
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Soda Calories in Schools Dropping, Industry SaysBeverage companies say they reduced the number of beverage calories shipped to schools last year by 41 percent, while nutrition experts call for stricter and mandatory nationwide standards.
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Diet for a Dead Planet: Surprising Insights into Agriculture's Unseen UnderbellyChristopher D. Cook's book about the evolution of the U.S. food and agriculture industry offers some eye-opening revelations about what we eat and how our food is produced.
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More Heat Means More Smog, Breathing ProblemsA study released today by the Natural Resources Defense Council indicates that cities in the eastern and southern U.S. could see more smog, more bad air days and more ozone alert days by mid-century if the climate continues to warm.
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Arctic Sea Ice Half as Thin as in 2001Scientists on board an Arctic expedition report that large sections of sea ice are 50 percent thinner than they were only six years ago. -
Carbon Emissions, Consumption Straining the EarthA new report from the Worldwatch Institute warns that human demands are stressing the Earth's natural systems, while still-rising carbon emissions could make catastrophic climate change inevitable.
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Vermont Court Backs State Efforts to Regulate EmissionsA federal district court judge this week ruled against auto industry plaintiffs who had argued they would face hardship because of Vermont's new standards for greenhouse gas emissions.
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Florida Governor Charlie Crist Asks for Delay on Manatee VoteFlorida Gov. Charlie Crist this week asked the state's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to postpone a vote that would have downgraded the manatee's status from "endangered" to "threatened."
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Deep-Sea Creatures Follow Surface Seasonal PatternsResearch has found that even deep-sea creatures that feed on minerals from volcanic vents still rely on seasonal blooms of algae to ensure their young have enough to eat.
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Florida Eyes Change in Manatee StatusThe Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is set to vote this week on a new management plan that would change the manatee's status from "endangered" to "threatened."
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Northwest Florida Observes September 11 AnniversaryA couple of events in the Pensacola area will mark the sixth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
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Two-Thirds of Polar Bears Gone by Mid-CenturyThe U.S. Geological Survey has projected a drastic decline in polar bear populations over the next 45 years, with many populations likely to be extinct beyond that time frame.
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Federal Agencies Need to Prepare for Climate Change, Report SaysA report by the Government Accountability Office finds that federal agencies responsible for more than 600 million acres of land and water resources aren't doing enough to address the future impact of climate change.
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Green Groups Sue EPA Over Ship PollutionFriends of the Earth sued the U.S. EPA in federal court today for failing to meet an April 2007 deadline for setting emissions standards for large cargo and cruise ships.
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Urban Areas See More Chemicals in Ground WaterA USGS study has found more man-made chemicals in ground-water supplies in high-population, developed areas.
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Parts of Southeast Saw Record-Low Streamflow in AugustMonitoring of rivers and streams in North Carolina and August showed record-low flows in many areas this August.
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Report: Gulf Coast Recovery Falls Woefully ShortThe Institute for Southern Studies explores the failures so far in Gulf Coast recovery since 2005's hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
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Rising Carbon Dioxide Could Prevent Ice Age CycleA researcher in the U.K. has used mathematical models to show that, as the oceans absorb more carbon dioxide, the increasingly acidic water dissolves calcium carbonate and releases even more carbon.