InnovationScienceTechnology

Microbes Found to “Breathe” Iron, Combat Ocean Dead Zones

Researchers have identified a novel microbial metabolism where bacteria “breathe” iron minerals to eliminate toxic sulfide. This biological process, occurring in marine sediments and wetlands, may help prevent the expansion of oxygen-depleted dead zones in oceans and lakes while playing a significant role in global element cycles.

A New Player in Planetary Detoxification

Scientists have uncovered what appears to be a previously unknown form of microbial metabolism that could play a crucial role in regulating Earth’s environmental health. According to research findings published in Nature, microorganisms discovered in marine sediments and wetlands are capable of “breathing” iron minerals to eliminate toxic sulfide from their surroundings.

ClimateScience

Wildfire Carbon Emissions Surge 9% as Climate Crisis Intensifies Global Blazes

Carbon emissions from extreme wildfires increased by 9% last year, reaching the sixth highest level on record according to new research. Climate change is intensifying fire conditions globally, with devastating blazes across South America, Canada, and Africa causing massive environmental damage and loss of life.

Record Wildfire Emissions Linked to Climate Crisis

Carbon emissions from extreme wildfires increased by 9% last year to reach the sixth highest level on record, according to a comprehensive global report. The analysis indicates that intense fast-spreading fires devastated huge swathes of South America’s rainforests, dry forests, and wetlands while decimating Canada’s northern forests, significantly pushing up levels of damaging greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.