In The News

Health of Oceans “Declining Fast”

Roger Harrabin October 7, 2013
The International Programme on the State of the Ocean reports rapid deterioration and multiple threats: heating up from climate change, becoming more acidic by absorbing carbon dioxide, expanding dead zones from fertilizer runoff, as well as overfishing and pollution. The report suggests that the world’s oceans have shielded humans from the worst effects of climate change by absorbing so much...

Global Warming Slowdown Complicates IPCC's Job

The Associated Press September 19, 2013
Scientists preparing the much-awaited report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change are in a quandary over data that go against the body’s broad conclusions on carbon emissions and a warming planet. In an exclusive report based on leaked documents the Associated Press says that scientists are puzzled by data suggesting that “global warming has slowed in the past 15 years even though...

Boat's Voyage a Shining Example of Solar Potential

Richard Anderson September 16, 2013
An international team of engineers, investors and designers created and launched a solar-powered vessel that circled the globe. The boat traveled close to the equator to maximize its exposure to the sun. “The Turanor uses energy harnessed from more than 500 [square meters] of solar panels to drive two, 60kW electric engines, each in turn driving a standard propeller,” reports Richard Anderson for...

Japan and China Step Up Drone Race, Tension Builds Over Disputed Islands

Jonathan Kaiman, Justin McCurry January 11, 2013
About 200 kilometers north of Taiwan are small islands claimed by major trade partners Japan and China. The islands are uninhabited, but analysts have suggested that oil and gas reserves could rest underneath nearby waters. The new leaders of the two nations are turning to drones and fighter jets for surveillance of the islands, called Diaoyu by China and Senkaku by Japan. Japan plans on...

China’s Aggressive Stance Reveals Lack of Coordination

Terry McCarthy December 5, 2012
Growing tensions in East Asia over aggressive postures from China may stem from a lack of coordination among government factions rather than concerted policy. But that is hardly reassuring, argues Terry McCarthy. The country lacks strong leadership that can control factions competing to be most outspoken and nationalistic. As a result, the country antagonizes neighbors with far-reaching claims...

Global Warming Is Real and Has Consequences – Part I

William D. Nordhaus April 4, 2012
Although the consequences of global warming are painfully vivid, some scholars still question whether it requires urgent action. In January, a group of scientists, including those from the United States, Australia, France and the Netherlands, summarized reasons for their skepticism and opposition to findings of the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. They insist that evidence is...

Changing Climate's Irreversible Devastation for the Seas

Alex David Rogers October 29, 2010
Evidence of rapid climate change abounds in scientific research and routine observations. Yet policymakers are slow to act. Legislators and researchers attending international gatherings such as the 10th Conference of Parties for the Convention on Biological Diversity in Japan label climate change a “threat,” yet cannot agree to call for international agreements or action. Meanwhile climate...