Water is one of the most fascinating substances in the universe. Every molecule of water on Earth has existed for billions of years, cycling through rocks, air, animals, and plants. Water doesn't follow the normal rules of chemistry, expanding when it freezes and floating on itself, enabling complex life to survive on our planet. Hot water freezes faster than cold, and water molecules can float upwards, against the force of gravity. This strange behavior has been very useful, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the edges of our brain and plants to move water from deep below the ground to nourish their leaves. Our solar system is drowning in water, and where there's water, there could be life. Learning about the properties of water can help students appreciate the remarkable nature of this colorless, featureless, and tasteless substance that breaks so many rules of chemistry.

As a society, we rely heavily on oil, but this addiction has led to environmental disasters like oil spills. However, nature has a way of cleaning up after us. Microbes, tiny bacteria that evolved to take advantage of oil and gas seeping from the sea floor, have been eating up oil spills for eons. In fact, a big bloom of microbes ate most of the 4.1 million barrels of oil spilt by BP's Macondo well in the Gulf of Mexico. These microbes are not only oil-eaters, but they also eat plastics, making them a potential solution to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Scientists are working on enhancing microbes' ability to eat oil and plastic, which could help us clean up our messes faster. Learning about these microbes and how they can benefit us is not only intellectually stimulating, but it also has practical implications for our planet's health.

Scientists have developed a simple and low-cost method to break down almost a dozen types of "forever chemicals" known as PFAS, which have contaminated virtually every drop of water on the planet and are associated with certain cancers and thyroid diseases. By using a chemical guillotine and common solvents and reagents, they severed the molecular bonds in PFAS, gradually nibbling away at the molecule until it was gone, leaving behind only safe byproducts. This breakthrough could eventually make it easier for water treatment plants to remove PFAS from drinking water.

Plastics are everywhere, and most of them never biologically degrade. This is a major problem for our environment, as plastic waste pollutes natural ecosystems for centuries. Fortunately, there are microbes that may be able to help us solve this growing problem. Scientists have discovered bacteria, also known as plastivores, that contain enzymes capable of breaking down PET polymers, a common type of plastic. However, we still need ways to biologically degrade all the other types of plastic, including abundant PEs and PPs. Researchers are looking for more heat-tolerant plastivores in the planet's most hostile environments and engineering better plastivorous enzymes in the lab. As students, you have the opportunity to learn about this important issue and contribute to finding solutions. By exploring the science behind plastic degradation, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to protect our environment and create a more sustainable future.

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 Sun's magnetic fields may seem distant and unimportant to our daily lives, but they actually have a huge impact on Earth. Understanding the science behind solar flares and coronal mass ejections can not only satisfy your curiosity about the world around you, but also help you prepare for potential disruptions to power and communication. Even better, studying these concepts can lead to the awe-inspiring experience of witnessing the stunning auroras, a natural phenomenon caused by the interaction of charged particles with Earth's magnetic field. Don't miss out on the chance to explore these fascinating topics and discover the wonders of our universe.

Traditional diamond mining is a billion-dollar industry with significant environmental impact, releasing large amounts of carbon emissions and causing damage to local ecosystems worldwide. However, carbon-negative diamonds are produced through a process that actually captures carbon emissions from the atmosphere, making them a much more sustainable alternative for the jewellery industry.  Aether Diamonds, a major player in this industry, uses direct-capture technology for diamond production in a two-step process. First, a reactor is used to extract the carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, while this raw carbon material is placed in another reactor that kickstarts the diamond-growing process. The resulting diamonds are visually indistinguishable from traditionally-mined diamonds and have the same physical and chemical properties, but have been produced with a much lower carbon footprint.  This ingenious solution reimagines existing carbon-capture services, where firms are paid by various multinational corporations to capture their carbon emissions, by recycling this extracted carbon dioxide for an inventive purpose. By eliminating 20 tons of carbon dioxide for every 1-carat diamond produced, each diamond can actively contribute to carbon emission reduction efforts.  Beyond the jewelry industry, researchers have used a similar process to produce important industrial materials from carbon. Dr. Stuart Licht, a chemistry professor at George Washington University, is a leading academic in this field of renewable technology. His patented technology, the Solar Thermal Electrochemical Photo (STEP) energy conversion, captures carbon dioxide using renewable solar energy to create carbon nanofibers. This material provides a lighter and stronger alternative to metals like steel, and is used in luxury sports cars, aeroplanes like the Boeing Dreamliner, and high-end athletic equipment. These creative uses of carbon-capture technology offer a promising future, especially with carbon-negative diamonds for the sustainable fashion industry. Beyond that, these diamonds also offer a more ethical alternative — sustainable diamond production avoids the international human rights abuses and violence that traditional diamond mining has been linked to.  All in all, carbon-negative diamonds have the potential to revolutionize the sustainable fashion industry and beyond, and are a fascinating scientific innovation with many exciting future implications.

Does decanting wine really improve its taste or is it just a wine snob's affectation? Experts disagree on whether decanting makes a perceptible difference, but agree on one clear benefit. Discover the controversy behind decanting and decide for yourself whether it's worth it.

As demand for materials like copper and lithium skyrockets with the push for clean energy, companies are eyeing the ocean floor for a new source. But what are the potential consequences for marine life and ecosystems? Learn about the growing controversy and the UN's efforts to regulate deep-sea mining in this thought-provoking article.

New research shows that the cost of annual flooding in the UK could increase by up to 23% over the next century due to climate change, unless all international pledges to reduce carbon emissions are met. The study, led by the University of Bristol and Fathom, highlights the need for urgent action to mitigate the impact of climate change on the risk of flooding across the UK. The research also identifies the areas of the UK where risks will increase the most, including densely populated cities such as London, Cardiff, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.

As a student, you might have wondered why your experiments didn't go as planned, or you struggled to find answers to your scientific questions. Here's where the scientific method comes in! The scientific method is a step-by-step process used to investigate and solve problems. By following the six steps - ask, research, form a hypothesis, experiment, analyze, and conclude - you can find solutions to your problems and answer your scientific queries. Learning the scientific method not only helps you solve everyday problems but also enhances your critical thinking and analytical skills, which can benefit you in your academic and personal life. Try it out and unleash your inner scientist!

Are you fascinated by the natural world and want to explore the mysteries of the universe? Then the study of Natural Sciences might be the perfect fit for you! Natural Sciences is a broad field of study that encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and astronomy. It is an interdisciplinary field that seeks to understand the natural world and the laws that govern it. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Natural Sciences is the opportunity to make groundbreaking discoveries that can change the world. From the discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming to the development of the theory of relativity by Albert Einstein, Natural Sciences has produced some of the most significant innovations in human history. And with new technologies and research methods emerging every day, the possibilities for future discoveries are endless. At the undergraduate level, students can choose from a variety of majors and modules that allow them to specialize in a particular area of Natural Sciences. For example, a biology major might focus on genetics or ecology, while a physics major might specialize in astrophysics or quantum mechanics. And for those who want to take their studies even further, graduate programs in Natural Sciences offer a wide range of research opportunities and specialized areas of study. But what can you do with a degree in Natural Sciences? The answer is almost anything! Graduates of Natural Sciences are highly sought after in a variety of industries, including healthcare, technology, energy, and environmental science. Some of the most notable employers in these industries include NASA, Tesla, and the World Health Organization. To succeed in Natural Sciences, you need to have a curious mind, a passion for discovery, and a strong foundation in math and science. You should also be comfortable with experimentation and problem-solving, as these are the skills that will help you make groundbreaking discoveries and contribute to the advancement of human knowledge. So if you're ready to explore the mysteries of the universe and make a difference in the world, consider studying Natural Sciences. It's a field that offers endless possibilities for discovery and innovation, and it's sure to be a rewarding and fulfilling career path.

The universe began with the Big Bang 13.8 billion years ago, and gradually, more complex things appeared. Our Sun and solar system appeared about 4.5 billion years ago, and by 4 billion years ago, life had emerged on Earth. Humans evolved just about 200,000 years ago, and they have become the dominant species on Earth. The future of the oceans, climate, and most other species on Earth, including our own descendants, depends on what humans do in the next few decades. We are at a turning point in history, and we must either lead the biosphere towards a flourishing future or to catastrophe. The good news is that we understand the science, and we have many of the technologies needed to build a sustainable future. The challenge now is the political technology. Governments and peoples must collaborate to avoid the many dangers we face today. Learning about the universe, the history of life on Earth, and the challenges we face today can help us understand the importance of collaboration and inspire us to take action towards a prosperous future.

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.

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.

Are you a plant lover who also cares about the environment? Then you'll definitely want to read this article from Smithsonian Magazine about Neoplants, a Parisian start-up that is creating genetically modified plants that filter harmful chemicals out of the air. Their first product, the Neo P1, is a bioengineered version of the popular pothos houseplant that can capture and recycle dangerous air pollutants commonly found in homes. But can these plants really make a difference? Read on to find out.

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.

Researchers have powered a microprocessor for a year using blue-green algae and ambient light! This system, comparable in size to an AA battery, has the potential to be a reliable and renewable way to power small devices. The growing Internet of Things needs power, and this system generates energy instead of simply storing it like batteries. The algae system is made of common and recyclable materials, making it easily replicable.

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!

Plastics have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, but few of us know the history behind this versatile material. The first plastic was created in 1863 by an American named John Wesley Hyatt, who invented celluloid, made from cellulose found in wood and straw. This discovery led to a cascade of new plastics, including bakelite, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylics, and nylon. Plastics have replaced other materials like wood, glass, and fabric in furniture, clothing, and packaging. While plastics have brought convenience and cost-effectiveness, they have also created staggering environmental problems. Many plastics are made of nonrenewable resources, and plastic packaging was designed to be single-use, but some plastics take centuries to decompose, creating a huge buildup of waste. By learning about plastics, students can understand how science and innovation have shaped our world, and they can explore ways to address the environmental problems associated with plastic use.