A new study reveals that coral reefs have declined by 50% since the 1950s due to climate change, overfishing, and pollution. The loss of these biodiversity hotspots not only affects marine life but also puts communities and livelihoods at risk. Learn more about the rapid pace of global coral collapse and its implications for indigenous communities and local ecosystems.

Over 171 trillion pieces of plastic now pollute our oceans, killing marine life and posing a threat to human health. Without action, this number could triple by 2040. Learn about the causes and solutions to this crisis, and how you can make a difference.

Plastic is a synthetic polymer that has completely changed our world. It is lightweight, durable, and can be molded into almost any shape. Unfortunately, plastic has saturated our environment, invaded the animals we eat, and is finding its way into our bodies. Plastic takes between 500 and 1,000 years to break down, yet we use it for things meant to be thrown away. 40% of plastics are used for packaging, and since its invention, we have produced about 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic. 79% of it is still sticking around, and a lot ends up in the ocean, where it outweighs all the fish. Microplastics, pieces smaller than 5 millimeters, have been found in honey, sea salt, beer, tap water, and in the household dust around us. While there is little science about the health risks associated with microplastics, it is safe to say that we have lost control over plastic to a certain extent, which is kind of scary. By learning more about plastic, we can take steps to reduce its impact on our environment and our health.

How do you predict tropical cyclones in a data-scarce region? Olivier Bousquet turned to an unlikely source: sea turtles. Tagged with sensors, these hardy creatures provide ocean data that can predict storm intensity and path. The project, known as STORM, has already produced exciting results, attracting the attention of scientists worldwide. Discover how sea turtles are helping us better understand the ocean and prepare for devastating tropical cyclones.

Half a million barrels of DDT waste dumped in the ocean in the 1940s and '50s remain in startlingly high concentrations, spread across a wide swath of seafloor larger than the city of San Francisco. Recent studies have linked the presence of this once-popular pesticide to an aggressive cancer in sea lions, and significant amounts of DDT-related compounds continue to accumulate in California condors and local dolphin populations. With a $5.6-million research boost from Congress, scientists and environmental nonprofits are racing to figure out the extent of the contamination lurking 3,000 feet underwater.

Do you feel a deep connection with the sea and its inhabitants? Do you find yourself daydreaming about what lies beneath the ocean's surface? If so, a career in oceanography might be perfect for you! As an oceanographer, you'll be studying the ocean, its physical and biological properties, and how it interacts with the planet. You'll work to understand everything from the temperature and salinity of the water, to the movement of currents, the behavior of marine life, and how humans impact the ocean. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in oceanography is the opportunity to work on important environmental issues. For example, you could study how climate change is impacting the ocean and marine life, work to protect endangered species, or research ways to develop sustainable fishing practices. There are also countless fascinating and inspiring examples of real-life oceanographers making a difference. For instance, Sylvia Earle is a marine biologist and explorer who has led more than 100 deep sea expeditions and been instrumental in the creation of marine protected areas. Jacques Cousteau, an oceanographer and explorer, was a pioneer in underwater filmmaking and worked to raise awareness about ocean conservation. As an oceanographer, you'll typically be conducting research and collecting data, analyzing samples in a laboratory setting, and communicating your findings to colleagues, stakeholders, and the public. You could choose to specialize in one of several areas, including biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, physical oceanography, or marine geology. There are also related fields like marine biology, marine ecology, and ocean engineering. To become an oceanographer, you'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as marine biology, oceanography, or environmental science. Many universities offer specialized programs, such as the Marine Science program at the University of Miami or the Oceanography program at the University of Washington. Additionally, internships and field experience can be highly beneficial for gaining practical skills and connections in the field. Helpful personal attributes for an oceanographer include a passion for the ocean and its inhabitants, strong analytical skills, and a willingness to work in a team environment. Additionally, it's important to have good communication skills, as you'll be communicating complex scientific concepts to a variety of audiences. The job prospects for oceanographers are good, with an expected job growth of 7% from 2020 to 2030. There are many potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies like NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and private companies like Shell or ExxonMobil. You could also work for non-profits like the Ocean Conservancy or research institutions like Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

The Weather Makers by Tim Flannery paints a bleak picture of the future of our planet as we approach a global climatic tipping point. With vivid descriptions of the most powerful natural disasters in recent history, Flannery provides a riveting history of climate change and its impending impact on our world. But it's not all doom and gloom - Flannery offers specific suggestions for action that individuals and lawmakers can take to prevent a cataclysmic future. This urgent warning and call to arms is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our planet. Recommended for environmentalists, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of our planet, The Weather Makers by Tim Flannery offers a comprehensive history of climate change and its impact on our world. With specific suggestions for action, Flannery's urgent warning and call to arms is relevant to anyone concerned about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and investing in renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal energy. The book is also valuable for those studying environmental science, meteorology, and related fields, as it offers a detailed analysis of the science behind climate change and its effects on our planet.

The ocean covers over 70% of our planet, yet we know very little about it. With new technology, such as submarine robots, this hidden realm is starting to reveal its secrets. The ocean is home to extraordinary, otherworldly creatures, and boasts some of the highest peaks, deepest canyons, and longest river channels on the planet. However, our impact on the ocean is already being keenly felt, with plastic and pollution causing damage to marine life. By learning more about the ocean, we can better protect and preserve this vital life source. The ocean is key to almost all life on the planet, regulating our climate and providing half the oxygen we breathe. Learning about the ocean's secrets can also help solve urgent problems such as antibiotic resistance. Exploring the ocean can be a fascinating and rewarding journey, with new discoveries waiting to be made.

Did you know that wetlands are vital sources of water purification, groundwater recharge, and carbon storage? A new Stanford-led study published in Nature finds that global losses of wetlands have likely been overestimated, enabling more informed plans to protect or restore ecosystems crucial for human health and livelihoods. While wetlands remain threatened in many parts of the world, the researchers combed through thousands of records of wetland drainage and land-use changes in 154 countries, mapping the distribution of drained and converted wetlands onto maps of present-day wetlands to get a picture of what the original wetland area might have looked like in 1700.

Are you curious about the hidden waterways that run beneath London's busy streets? Did you know that many of London's neighborhoods are named after these waterways? Discover the fascinating story of London's "secret" rivers, their historical significance, and how they are being restored to improve the environment and the lives of millions of people in this inspiring article from BBC. Follow the journey of volunteer groups who are revitalizing these waterways, creating habitats for wildlife, and reducing flood risks across the city.

Are you passionate about the environment and conservation? Do you want to make a difference in the world by preserving our natural resources? Then the field of Natural Resource Management may be just for you! Natural Resource Management is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the sustainable use and conservation of natural resources such as forests, water, wildlife, and minerals. This field of study aims to balance the needs of humans with the needs of the environment. One of the most interesting aspects of Natural Resource Management is its real-life impact. For example, conservationists use their knowledge to protect endangered species and preserve habitats for future generations. Forest managers ensure that timber is harvested in a sustainable way, while also protecting the biodiversity of the forest. Innovations in Natural Resource Management are constantly being made. Researchers are using cutting-edge technology to track animal populations, monitor deforestation, and study climate change. Academic figures such as Jane Goodall and David Attenborough have made significant contributions to the field through their research and advocacy work. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in ecology, environmental policy, and natural resource economics. Majors may include Forestry, Wildlife Management, and Environmental Science. There are also opportunities for further specialization, such as in fisheries management or renewable energy. Upon graduation, there are a variety of career paths available. Natural Resource Management graduates can work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies. Popular careers include park ranger, environmental consultant, and wildlife biologist. Notable employers include the United States Forest Service, National Parks Service, and The Nature Conservancy. To succeed in this field, it is important to have a passion for the environment and a desire to make a difference. Strong communication skills and an ability to work collaboratively are also essential. If you are ready to make a positive impact on the world, consider studying Natural Resource Management.

UN Treaty protects 30% of oceans, restricts mining, fishing, and shipping, and aims to reverse biodiversity losses and ensure sustainable development. Marine life is at risk from climate change, overfishing, and pollution. The treaty also addresses marine genetic resources and requires environmental assessments for deep-sea activities. However, the treaty must be adopted and passed by enough countries to enter into force.

As high school students, we often think of ourselves as separate from the Earth, but are we really? We are all made of the same molecules as everything else on our planet and are part of an interconnected ecosystem that keeps us all alive. Throughout human history, many cultures have viewed their relationship to the Earth in other ways, such as animism and Taoism, and placed the spirit of the Earth at the center of their worldview. However, under colonization, the Earth became a place to be conquered, dominated, farmed, fished, plundered and mined, on a vast scale. Today, we are still trying to bend the planet's environment, processes, and biodiversity to our will, but can anything fundamentally change while we still see ourselves as somehow separate from Earth? By understanding that there is no Earth and us, but that we are one, we can find ways to truly reconnect to all life on the planet and make a positive impact on our environment. Learning about these concepts can not only benefit us intellectually but also practically in helping us to become better stewards of our planet.

Do you love nature and want to help protect it for future generations? If so, a career as a Conservation Scientist might be perfect for you! Conservation Scientists work to preserve and protect natural resources, such as forests, wildlife, and waterways, by conducting research, developing plans, and implementing strategies for conservation. Imagine spending your days exploring the great outdoors, studying the behavior of wildlife, and developing plans to protect endangered species. Conservation Scientists work with a variety of organizations, including government agencies, non-profits, and private companies, to ensure that our natural resources are preserved for future generations. As a Conservation Scientist, your duties may include conducting field research, analyzing data, developing management plans, and collaborating with other professionals, such as foresters, wildlife biologists, and environmental engineers. You may specialize in areas such as wildlife management, forestry, or fisheries, and work in a variety of settings, from national parks to private consulting firms. To become a Conservation Scientist, you typically need a Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as biology, ecology, or environmental science. Many universities offer specialized programs in conservation biology or natural resource management, where you can gain hands-on experience in the field. In addition to formal education, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful in a career as a Conservation Scientist. These include a passion for nature, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Job prospects for Conservation Scientists are strong, with a projected growth rate of 8% over the next decade. There are many potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies such as the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service, non-profits such as the Nature Conservancy and the World Wildlife Fund, and private consulting firms. So if you're passionate about nature and want to make a difference in the world, consider a career as a Conservation Scientist. With the right education and training, you can help protect our natural resources for generations to come.

Trees are not only majestic but also crucial for biodiversity and reducing climate change. However, we are cutting them down at an alarming rate. Planting trees can help capture carbon dioxide and cancel out CO2 emissions. In fact, planting 1.2 trillion trees could capture up to 100 gigatonnes of CO2, and safeguard habitats that otherwise get cut down. Trees also offer a habitat to all kinds of fungi and insects, and studies have shown that they can lower stress and make people happier. Planting a single tree can be a powerful symbolic act, but we need to make big changes to the way we live and reduce the number of trees we cut down in the first place. Learning about the importance of trees and taking the necessary actions to protect them can have a positive impact on the environment and our mental health.

Climate change is putting numerous European seabirds at risk. A new conservation guide, led by ZSL and University of Cambridge, offers hope for the future of these important marine birds by assessing their specific needs and actions needed for preservation. Don't let iconic species like the Atlantic puffin disappear from our shores!

Sea otters were once hunted to near extinction for their dense fur. But since their protection in the early 20th century, they have made a remarkable recovery, with reintroductions leading to a population boom. However, their return has enraged shellfish divers who see the marine mammal's legendary appetite as a threat to their livelihoods. Explore the controversy surrounding the sea otter's recovery and the challenges of coexisting with this charismatic creature.

Oxybenzone in sunscreens is disrupting coral reefs, leading to international bans. Scientists are now exploring eco-friendly alternatives like mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) found in ocean organisms that offer potent UV-absorbing shields, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns remain. Discover the latest research and innovations in the search for safer and more effective sunscreens.

Dive into the mysteries of the natural world with How To Read Water by Tristan Gooley. This must-have book is perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors, from walkers and sailors to anglers and swimmers. With over 700 clues, signs, and patterns, Gooley shares his tips and observations to help you discover the magic of the outdoors and learn how to navigate your surroundings. Join him on his pioneering journeys from Sussex to Oman and the Arctic as he reveals the secrets of ponds, puddles, rivers, oceans, and more. Recommended for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone interested in exploring the outdoors, How To Read Water by Tristan Gooley is an essential guide to understanding the natural world around us. From walkers to sailors, swimmers to anglers, this book provides valuable knowledge, skills, and tips for anyone who loves spending time outside. It's also a great resource for those interested in fields such as geography, environmental science, and biology. Whether you're exploring the icy mysteries of the Arctic or wild swimming in Sussex, Gooley's insights will help you read and navigate the water around you.

Climate change anxiety is a relatively new term, but the fear of the future and the trauma it may bring is not. We are facing an existential fear about our survival, and it is important to understand our impact as human beings on the planet. It is normal to feel anxious about the effects of climate change, but this anxiety can also be a way of digesting the information. As students, it is essential to explore this topic and understand the key concepts of climate change, its impact on our world, and the part we can play in mending the part of the world that is within our reach. Learning about this topic not only benefits us intellectually but also practically as it helps us to make informed decisions about our future and the world we want to live in. Let's embrace the challenge and become part of the solution.