When using pyrite to understand Earth’s ocean and atmosphere: Think local, not global
Scientists have long used information from sediments at the bottom of the ocean to reconstruct conditions in oceans of the past. But a new study from David Fike, professor of Earth and planetary sciences in Arts & Sciences, raises concerns about a common use of pyrite for this purpose.
Under climate stress, human innovation set stage for population surge
Anthropologist T.R. Kidder in Arts & Sciences published new research that shows that aridification in the central plains of China during the early Bronze Age did not cause population collapse. The results highlight the importance of social resilience to climate change.
Midwest-UK dialogue to examine collaborative climate action
The British Consulate-General in Chicago will partner with the Midwest Climate Summit for an online climate action dialogue March 3; the Washington University community is invited to attend.
Stop Saving the Planet!
An Environmentalist Manifesto
We’ve been “saving the planet” for decades!…And environmental crises just get worse. All this hybrid driving and LEED building and carbon trading seems to accomplish little to nothing—and low-income communities continue to suffer the worst consequences.
Law clinic’s work inspires federal bill
The School of Law’s Interdisciplinary Environmental Clinic’s 2019 report “Environmental Racism in St. Louis” is helping to shape new federal legislation.
Aerosol particles naturally form over the open sea
Research led by Jian Wang, professor of energy, environmental and chemical engineering at Washington University in St. Louis, uncovers a previously undocumented source of aerosol formation, which will improve climate models.
The first 100 Biden/Harris days
Faculty experts from across Washington University in St. Louis draw upon their research, their instruction, their experience and their thought leadership to proffer insight and ideas for the new administration, the new beginning.
Biden energy plan is aggressive, but much can be done
Geophysicist Michael Wysession, professor of earth and planetary sciences in Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, teaches a popular undergraduate course called “Energy and the Environment.” He breaks down President-elect Joe Biden’s 9-point Energy Plan, point-by-point.
What Would Nature Do?
A Guide for Our Uncertain Times
Exploring the lessons that life on Earth can teach us about coping with complexity, What Would Nature Do? offers timely options for civilization to reorganize for a safe and prosperous future.
In fire-prone West, plants need their pollinators — and vice versa
A new study from the northern Rockies explores the role of fire in the finely tuned dance between plants and their pollinators. The research from biologists including Jonathan Myers in Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis is published Nov. 25 in the Journal of Ecology.
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