Oceans
From tackling marine plastic pollution to coral reef restoration, learn about humanity’s latest efforts to protect ocean habitats and marine wildlife.
Drones help scientists gather winter climate data from Gulf Stream
Collecting weather data along the Gulf Stream in severe winter conditions is a challenge, to say the least, for traditional ships with human crews. To make the process easier and more efficient, Saildrone, headquartered in Alameda, California, manufactures surface vehicles that use renewable Read More...
Bug-inspired floating robots can clean up ocean pollutants
Thanks to human behavior, the ocean is cluttered with pollutants like oil and contaminants from drinking water. These materials are harmful to the ecosystem, as they prevent vital oxygen from reaching marine life and are also toxic. Currently, to clean up oil spills, people are sent on ships to do Read More...
First IVF corals successfully spawn on Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation (GBRF) has an exciting announcement: The first generation of IVF coral babies have officially reproduced on a degraded reef. As described by GBRF, coral IVF uses modern technology to breed and distribute corals so they have the highest chance of survival. “Our Read More...
New York Harbor introduces 11.2 million oysters
Looking for more sustainable ways to protect waterways and protect themselves from climate risks, more communities are turning to the humble oyster to strengthen their coastlines. Seaside cities throughout California use oysters to dampen storm surges and purify water, and now, New York City is Read More...
Coral reefs are disappearing, but lab-grown coral may help them survive
The Florida Reef Tract is the third-largest reef in the world… and it’s steadily disappearing due to coral bleaching and climate change. To address this dire situation, scientists have been working tirelessly to figure out how to grow coral in a lab-induced setting which can then be used to Read More...
Art sale dedicates profits to endangered animals and ecosystem conservation
Looking for a new piece of art to tie your home together? Buying a print from Vital Impacts will give you a stunning natural photograph for your home while also supporting endangered habitat conservation efforts. Founded by award-winning photographer Ami Vitale and visual journalist Eileen Read More...
Rare white sperm whale spotted near Jamaica
A white sperm whale was recently spotted by sailors off the coast of Jamaica. This beautiful creature is normally grey, though this rarer form is famous for its depiction in the classic novel “Moby Dick." Why does the whale have a white color? These white giants lack color because of two Read More...
Game of Trawls: How AI-equipped fishing nets could help reduce by-catch
While a very popular practice in the fishing industry, bottom trawling has long been criticized for its huge negative impact on marine ecosystems. A new device from researchers in France, however, could finally help make the method more eco-friendly. What is bottom trawling and why is it bad for Read More...
Deep sea expedition uncovers impressive “underwater lakes”
Eighty percent of our oceans are unexplored by humans, and each dive into the deep depths of the uncharted ocean territory yields surprising and impressive discoveries. The most recent deep sea expedition off the coast of Baja in Mexico didn’t disappoint with the discovery of six new species and Read More...
US establishes protected zone for endangered North Atlantic right whales
The North Atlantic right whale is a species of whale that is currently considered critically endangered. Despite having been included in the Endangered Species Act since 1973, experts estimate that the North Atlantic right whale population has dwindled to fewer than 350. To help protect these Read More...