Jeans have a fascinating history, from their origins as sturdy workwear to their current status as fashion icons. However, the manufacturing process for a single pair of jeans emits over 33 kilograms of carbon, contributes to environmental degradation, and often involves poor labor practices. As a student, you can learn about the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry and take action to reduce your own impact. Buying used jeans, washing them less frequently, and choosing brands that prioritize sustainability and fair labor practices are all steps you can take. By exploring these issues, you can become a more informed and responsible consumer, and contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

Scotland leads the way in funding "loss and damage" projects, providing aid to developing countries for the impact of climate change. Malawi, with ties to Scotland, is already benefiting from the fund with a significant difference made in 10 areas. This model has been endorsed by Malawi's President, who believes it should be replicated by other countries. This article highlights the potential of smaller countries to make a meaningful impact on global issues.

Did you know that human activity can cause earthquakes? In fact, they're becoming more common due to drilling, mining, and other subsurface activities. For example, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake in Spain in 2011 was caused by farmers using underground water for irrigation, which caused a shift in the fault line. The oil and gas industry, geothermal power developers, and dam builders have also caused man-made earthquakes. Learning about the science behind earthquakes is not only intellectually fascinating, but it can also help us understand how to avoid making the problem worse. Earthquakes are one of the most catastrophic natural disasters, and there is currently no way to predict when they will strike. As students, we can take an active role in learning about the impact of human activity on the environment and how we can make a positive difference.

The UN's Decade on Ecosystem Restoration calls for urgent action to restore freshwater ecosystems. A recent study of Australian stream management highlights the need for collaborative, participatory, and adaptive nature-based solutions. Discover how building communities of practice, implementing nature-based solutions, and allocating more resources for adaptive management can help achieve global goals for ecosystem restoration.

A 1°C temperature rise can cause a tenfold increase in displacement, and a 50mm reduction in rainfall per month can double it. Conflict is a major driver, but displacement itself doesn't cause further conflict. Discover the impact of climate change on vulnerable regions across African drylands and the urgent need for adaptation measures.

Are you passionate about food and its impact on society? Do you want to make a difference in the world by helping to shape policies that affect what we eat and how it is produced? Then a career in Food Policy Analysis might be the perfect fit for you! Food Policy Analysis is a fascinating field that combines science, politics, and economics to address some of the most pressing issues of our time. As a Food Policy Analyst, you will work to develop and implement policies that promote healthy, sustainable, and equitable food systems. This could involve anything from researching the impact of agricultural practices on the environment, to advocating for food safety regulations, to analyzing the economic viability of different food production methods. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the variety of roles that are available. You could work for a government agency, a non-profit organization, a research institution, or a private company. You could specialize in areas such as food security, nutrition, animal welfare, or environmental sustainability. And you could work on issues that affect local communities, entire countries, or even the world at large. To become a Food Policy Analyst, you will typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as agriculture, economics, public policy, or environmental studies. Many universities offer specialized programs in Food Policy Analysis, such as the one at Tufts University in Boston, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the world. In addition to formal education, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. These include strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, a passion for social justice, and a willingness to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. The job prospects for Food Policy Analysts are quite promising, as there is a growing demand for professionals who can help address the complex challenges facing our global food system. Some notable employers in this field include the World Health Organization, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Environmental Defense Fund. So if you're looking for a career that combines your love of food with your desire to make a positive impact on the world, consider exploring the exciting and rewarding field of Food Policy Analysis!

Are you interested in exploring the impact of human activity on our planet? Canadian photographer Edward Burtynsky has captured the effects of human consumption and lifestyles on Earth for over 40 years, and his latest project, African Studies, is now on display at Flowers Gallery, Hong Kong until May 20, 2023. In an interview with BBC Culture, Burtynsky discusses his decade-long project researching and photographing in 10 African countries, including the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia, one of the hottest places on Earth. Read on to discover Burtynsky's insights on the African industrial revolution and the environmental consequences of globalization.

Natural climate solutions offer a way to address both the climate crisis and nature loss, while increasing resilience. Private-sector commitment to climate action is gaining momentum, with companies adopting strategies aimed at reaching net-zero emissions and investing in nature through the purchase of Natural Climate Solutions (NCS)-generated carbon credits. NCS projects could yield nearly a third of the emissions reduction target by 2030, with substantial co-benefits for biodiversity, water quality, and sustainable development. However, challenges remain in ensuring genuinely additional and permanent carbon reductions. Learn about six proposed steps to address these deficiencies.

Experience Africa from a whole new perspective with Edward Burtynsky's latest collection of photographs, African Studies. From the geometric patterns of agriculture to the devastating impact of corporate greed, Burtynsky's aerial images capture the intricate relationship between humans and the planet. Discover the beauty and horror of Africa's vast resources, extracted with both modern technology and centuries-old techniques. Explore the impact of China's shifting economy on the African continent, and ponder the abstract beauty of Namibia's Tsaus Mountains. The African continent is a final frontier worth exploring.

The pandemic has highlighted the need for better connections to nature and public policies to tackle the climate and biodiversity crises. England is experimenting with a new system to transform the way its landscape is managed after leaving the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy. Discover how an incremental approach, may just deliver transformation in the English countryside and nature that would have otherwise stayed in the 'too difficult box'.

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.

In the age of climate change, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact of their daily choices on the environment. One of the biggest contributors to carbon emissions is the food industry, and supermarkets play a significant role in this. The carbon footprint of a supermarket is the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions that result from the production, transportation, and disposal of the food it sells. According to a study by the University of Sheffield, the average carbon footprint of a supermarket in the UK is around 70,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. This is equivalent to the emissions from 14,000 cars driving for a whole year! Urban and rural supermarkets have different carbon footprints due to their location, transportation options, and customer demographics. Urban supermarkets are usually located in densely populated areas, with many customers living within walking or cycling distance. This means that urban supermarkets have lower transportation emissions, but higher energy consumption due to the need for air conditioning and refrigeration. Rural supermarkets, on the other hand, are often located further away from customers and rely more on truck transportation, resulting in higher transportation emissions. However, they may have a lower energy consumption due to the milder climate. Dr. Katy Roelich, a researcher at the University of Leeds, has studied the carbon footprint of the UK food system and identified the role of supermarkets in it. She has highlighted the importance of reducing food waste and promoting local food systems to reduce emissions. The carbon footprints of urban and rural supermarkets have both positive and negative environmental impacts. By being aware of the differences between them and promoting sustainable practices, we can all make a difference in reducing the carbon footprint of our food system.

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.

In "Storms of My Grandchildren," Dr. James Hansen, the preeminent climate scientist, delivers a powerful and urgent message about the looming threat of global warming. With a stark warning that the planet is hurtling towards a climatic point of no return, Hansen calls for immediate and decisive action to phase out coal and achieve a goal of 350 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This book is a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of our planet and the fate of future generations. Recommended for students of environmental science, policy makers, and anyone interested in the urgent issue of climate change, "Storms of My Grandchildren" provides a comprehensive and compelling overview of the science behind global warming and the political obstacles to addressing it. The book is an important resource for those seeking to understand the dire consequences of inaction, and the urgent need for a groundswell of public support to create a tipping point for change. Hansen's message is clear: we must act now to save our planet and our grandchildren from a catastrophic fate.

Have you ever wondered about the ground beneath your feet? Do you have a passion for the environment and a desire to understand how it works? If so, then the study of Soil Science may be the perfect fit for you! Soil Science is a fascinating field that encompasses the study of soil properties, functions, and processes. It explores the intricate relationships between soil, water, air, and living organisms, and how they interact to support life on earth. Did you know that soil is a complex and diverse ecosystem that contains billions of microorganisms? These tiny creatures play a vital role in maintaining soil health and fertility, and they are the focus of much research in Soil Science. In recent years, Soil Science has seen many exciting innovations and academic disclosures. For example, researchers have discovered that certain types of fungi can help plants to absorb nutrients more efficiently, leading to higher crop yields and more sustainable agriculture. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in Soil Science include soil chemistry, soil biology, soil physics, and environmental soil science. These modules provide a solid foundation in the fundamentals of soil science, and they can lead to further specializations such as soil conservation, land management, and soil microbiology. Soil Science graduates are in high demand in a range of industries, including agriculture, environmental consulting, and natural resource management. Some notable employers in this field include the United States Department of Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. To succeed in Soil Science, you will need to have a strong background in biology, chemistry, and physics. You should also be curious and passionate about the natural world, and have a desire to make a positive impact on the environment. If you're looking for a rewarding and exciting career that combines science, nature, and sustainability, then Soil Science may be the perfect field for you!

Detroit is pioneering urban farming, with Hantz Group's innovative plan to plant 15,000 trees on 1,500 parcels of land. Can it really revive the city's neighborhoods and provide fresh produce and jobs for residents? Discover the challenges and opportunities of urban agriculture.

Wetlands are often seen as wastelands or obstacles to development, but they are actually one of the most valuable ecosystems on the planet. Wetlands, such as swamps, bogs, and marshes, provide numerous economic benefits that are often overlooked. From tourism to carbon storage, wetlands offer a wealth of opportunities for business and communities alike. One of the most significant economic benefits of wetlands is their ability to mitigate flooding. Wetlands act like sponges, soaking up water and slowly releasing it back into the environment. This natural system helps prevent the disastrous effects of floods, such as property damage and loss of life. In fact, a 2018 study found that wetlands in the United States alone prevent over $1.8 billion in flood damage every year. Wetlands also provide significant benefits to the fishing and hunting industry. The natural filtration system of wetlands improves water quality and supports fish and wildlife populations. According to a 2017 report by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching activities contribute over $156 billion to the U.S. economy annually. In addition to flood mitigation and supporting the fishing and hunting industry, wetlands also have a significant impact on carbon storage. Wetlands act as carbon sinks, meaning they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in the ground. This has a direct impact on climate change and global warming. Wetlands can sequester up to 10 times more carbon per hectare than forests, making them a vital component in fighting climate change. Leading academics such as Professor Rebecca Lave from Indiana University Bloomington and Professor Robert Costanza from Australian National University have conducted extensive research on the economic benefits of wetlands. Their work highlights the importance of wetlands in sustaining a healthy environment and economy. Remember, the key to exploring academic topics is to find what you're passionate about and dive deep into the subject matter. Wetlands are just one example of how studying environmental issues can lead to a greater appreciation of the world around us.

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.

Alarming, riveting and humorous, "An Inconvenient Truth" is a groundbreaking book that presents conclusive evidence of global warming and its disastrous consequences. This book brings together top research from around the world, personal anecdotes, and illustrations to document the fast pace and wide scope of the issue. Written in an accessible and entertaining style, this book will open the eyes of even the most skeptical readers to the undeniable fact of global warming. Recommended for environmentalists, scientists, politicians, and anyone interested in the future of our planet, "An Inconvenient Truth" presents a comprehensive and alarming view of global warming. With its personal anecdotes, illustrations, and top research from around the world, this book is relevant to a wide range of fields of study, including environmental science, political science, and sociology. It is also relevant to anyone interested in the intersection of science and politics, and the role of individuals in shaping the future of our planet.

Are you passionate about the environment and curious about the impact of climate change on our planet? Then a degree in Climate Science could be the perfect fit for you! Climate Science is an exciting and rapidly evolving field that encompasses a range of disciplines, from atmospheric science to ecology and beyond. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Climate Science is the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. As a Climate Scientist, you'll be at the forefront of efforts to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change. You'll study everything from the causes and consequences of global warming to the ways in which we can reduce our carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations. There are countless fascinating areas of research within the field of Climate Science. For example, you might study the impact of rising sea levels on coastal communities or investigate the ways in which climate change is affecting agriculture and food security around the world. You might also explore the latest innovations in renewable energy technology or examine the role of policy and advocacy in shaping global climate action. At the undergraduate level, students typically take a range of modules that cover the fundamentals of Climate Science, including meteorology, oceanography, and geology. As you progress through your degree, you'll have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as climate modeling, climate policy, or environmental management. And with a degree in Climate Science, you'll be well-equipped to pursue a range of exciting careers in fields such as environmental consulting, renewable energy, or climate policy. Some of the most exciting potential employers for Climate Science graduates include government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, as well as private-sector companies like Tesla and Google. And with the growing urgency of the climate crisis, there's never been a better time to pursue a career in this field. To succeed in Climate Science, you'll need to be curious, analytical, and passionate about making a difference in the world. Strong skills in math and science are also essential, as is a deep interest in the natural world and a commitment to sustainability. So if you're ready to take on one of the most pressing challenges of our time, a degree in Climate Science could be the perfect choice for you!