Environment

Oceans

Explainer: Why are so many hurricanes strengthening really fast?

This dangerous trend appears relatively new — and growing. Studies also have begun linking it to our warming world.

Environment

Ultrasound waves can help remove polluting microplastics in water

The innovative process concentrates microplastics within a flowing liquid. A two-step process then removes the potentially toxic bits.

Earth

The sun shines brightest in South America’s Atacama Desert

Solar rays in this high-altitude desert at times rival the light intensity on Venus.

Earth

Canada’s Crawford Lake seems to mark when the Anthropocene began

Mud at the bottom of this lake holds a record showing how humanity has been changing our planet. But the Anthropocene isn’t an official new epoch yet.

Tech

New thermal ‘cloak’ keeps spaces from getting too hot or too cold

 A prototype fabric could help keep cars, buildings and other spaces cooler during heat waves while also reducing greenhouse-gas emissions.

Materials Science

This house is partly made of recycled diapers

After being washed, dried, sanitized and shredded, used diapers were mixed with other materials to make a strong concrete.

Climate

For greener toilets and air conditioning, consider saltwater

Using saltwater would allow coastal cities to save their freshwater for drinking and to reduce their carbon footprints. Some could save money, too.

Environment

Fungi help rescue crops being harmed by microplastics

Microplastics in the soil hinder plant growth. But two finalists at Regeneron ISEF found that fungi and farm waste can reduce the harm.

Tech

Nanocrystal ‘painted’ films may someday help relieve summer heat

The rainbow palette and cooling powers of new plant-based films comes from their microscopic surface patterns of tiny crystals.

Environment

Older diesel school buses linked to more student absences

Schools that replaced or upgraded old diesel school buses increased student attendance rates, new research shows.

Environment

Making yards more diverse can reap big environmental benefits

Replacing grass with native plants uses less water and fewer chemicals while providing additional benefits to people and wildlife.

Earth

Under the ice, a hidden lake hints at its origin — and coming end

Lake Mercer may serve as a model for better understanding the birth and life of Antarctica’s hundreds of subglacial lakes.