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What Can't Bees Do? Unique Study of Urban Beehives Reveals the Secrets of Several Cities Around the World Honeybees are well-known for their crucial role in pollination and honey production, but a new study published in Environmental Microbiome highlights an even more remarkable capability. Researchers have found that honeybee hives can provide vital insights into human health, pathogens, plant life, and the urban environment. This innovative study analyzed hive materials from five cities—New York, Tokyo, Venice, Melbourne, and Sydney—uncovering unique microbiomes and environmental data for each urban area. The Urban Microbiome With nearly 70% of the human population predicted to reside in cities by 2050, understanding the biotic (living organisms) and abiotic (non-living components) aspects of urban environments is crucial. Cities are complex ecosystems that affect human health and wellbeing through various interactions. Traditional methods of sampling these environments require ...

How Joe Biden’s Climate Push Fell Flat with Gen Z Voters As the 2024 presidential election approaches, President Joe Biden faces a critical challenge: winning back the support of Gen Z voters, particularly on climate issues. Despite notable achievements in climate policy, many young voters feel Biden has not done enough to address the climate crisis. Biden’s Climate Achievements Since taking office, Biden has made significant strides in climate action. He rejoined the Paris climate agreement, enacted the Inflation Reduction Act, which includes sweeping clean energy legislation, and proposed new pollution regulations. U.S. emissions even fell last year. However, these efforts have not been enough to galvanize young voters, who are crucial to his reelection bid. Gen Z’s Climate Discontent Anderson Clayton, chair of North Carolina’s Democratic party, acknowledges the disconnect. “I know that for a lot of young people right now, they’re saying he hasn’t done enough,” she said. This senti...

World has ‘Moral Responsibility’ to Help Small Island States Survive Climate Crisis – UN Agency Chief The world faces a moral imperative to support small island developing states (Sids) as they confront the severe impacts of the climate crisis, emphasized Jorge Moreira da Silva, executive director of Unops, ahead of the fourth annual conference of Sids in Antigua and Barbuda. The Plight of Small Island States Sids, which contribute less than 1% to global carbon emissions, are among the most vulnerable economies to climate change. These states face unique challenges, including limited resources, remoteness from major markets, and high susceptibility to natural disasters. The economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated their vulnerabilities, with an average GDP contraction of 6.9% in 2020. Financial Strain and Climate Injustice More than 40% of Sids are dealing with unsustainable debt levels. Between 2016 and 2020, these states paid 18 times more in debt service tha...

Climate Change Added a Month’s Worth of Extra-Hot Days in Past Year In an alarming revelation, a new analysis shows that climate change has added an average of 26 extra-hot days globally over the past year. This record-shattering warmth, largely driven by the burning of fossil fuels and the resulting increase in heat-trapping gases, has affected nearly 80% of the world’s population. Since last May, almost everyone on the planet experienced at least 31 days of abnormally high temperatures that would not have occurred without human-induced climate change. The Global Toll of Extra-Hot Days The impact of these additional hot days varies significantly across regions. In countries like Colombia, Indonesia, and Rwanda, residents faced up to 120 extra days of extreme heat. Andrew Pershing, Vice President for Science at Climate Central, highlighted the substantial toll this imposes on both people and nature, particularly in South America and Africa. Extreme Heat and Its Far-Reaching Effects T...

New Report: Climate Change Added Average of 26 Days of Extreme Heat Over Last Year As global temperatures continue to rise, a new report by the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, World Weather Attribution, and Climate Central has highlighted the increasing threat of extreme heat. Over the past year, climate change has added an average of 26 extreme heat days worldwide, a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action. The Impact of Extreme Heat The report confirms that 2023 was the hottest year on record, with almost the entire global population affected by extreme heat days caused by human-induced climate change. These findings are particularly alarming as extreme heat is one of the deadliest and most widespread climate change risks, disproportionately impacting disadvantaged communities. Global Heatwave Crisis The current heatwave crisis in Asia is a clear example of the report’s findings. In Bangladesh alone, 57 of 64 districts are experiencing extreme heat, affecting ov...

New Report: Climate Change Added Average of 26 Days of Extreme Heat Over Last Year As global temperatures continue to rise, a new report by the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, World Weather Attribution, and Climate Central has highlighted the increasing threat of extreme heat. Over the past year, climate change has added an average of 26 extreme heat days worldwide, a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action. Understanding the Impact The report confirms that 2023 was the hottest year on record, with almost the entire global population affected by extreme heat days caused by human-induced climate change. These findings are particularly alarming as extreme heat is one of the deadliest and most widespread climate change risks, disproportionately impacting disadvantaged communities. Global Heatwave Crisis The current heatwave crisis in Asia is a clear example of the report’s findings. In Bangladesh alone, 57 of 64 districts are experiencing extreme heat, affecting over...

Hive Mind: Award-Winning Student Startup Seeks to Learn the Language of Bees In an innovative blend of tradition and technology, Mike Bronikowski, a senior at Binghamton University, is working to understand the language of honeybees. His startup, BuzzHive, aims to translate the buzzing of bees into actionable data to help beekeepers combat growing threats from climate change, pests, and other environmental changes. This groundbreaking initiative recently earned first place in the Software & Services category at the New York Business Plan Competition. The Importance of Bees Honeybees play a crucial role in pollination, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimating that 35% of the human diet comes from insect-pollinated plants, and honeybees are responsible for 80% of that pollination. However, honeybee populations are under threat, with a recent study finding that 48% of U.S. honeybee colonies were lost between 2022 and 2023. This decline poses a significant risk to global foo...

  Success is Sweet for Yemeni Beekeepers In Yemen, beekeeping has been a cherished tradition for generations, providing a vital source of income for around 100,000 beekeepers. The country’s honey, especially the highly prized Sidr honey, is renowned for its unique flavors and medicinal properties. Despite the high quality and global demand, this tradition faces significant threats from ongoing conflict and climate change. However, a wave of hope is sweeping through Yemen, thanks to initiatives like the UNDP Yemen’s ERRY III Joint Programme, co-funded by the EU and Sweden. Reviving a Tradition The UNDP Yemen’s ERRY III Joint Programme aims to revitalize beekeeping in Yemen, providing technical and financial support to beekeepers. This initiative not only helps in preserving a cultural heritage but also empowers communities by creating sustainable livelihoods. Stories of Resilience and Hope Meet Yahya Al-Harasi, a 39-year-old father from Al Mahwit Governorate. Struggling to support...

Current Climate: Extreme Heat Hits Miami, New Delhi, and Mexico’s Tropical Forests As the planet continues to warm, extreme heat waves are becoming more frequent and severe, impacting various regions across the globe. Recently, Miami, New Delhi, and Mexico’s tropical forests have been hit hard by unprecedented heat. Deadly Heat in Mexico’s Tropical Forests In Mexico, the heat has reached such extreme levels that howler monkeys are falling dead from trees. This alarming phenomenon highlights the severe impact of rising temperatures on wildlife and ecosystems. Brutal Heat Crisis in New Delhi New Delhi has experienced a brutal heat crisis, with temperatures soaring above 115°F. Local governments have warned residents to stay indoors to avoid the dangerous heat. This crisis underscores the urgent need for effective climate action to protect public health. "Completely Crazy" Heat in Miami Miami has also seen record-breaking temperatures, with local meteorologists describing the...

'Every Fraction of a Degree Matters': Why Climate Action Needs a New Narrative Global warming has been a hot topic for years, with the 1.5°C limit becoming a rallying cry for climate action. However, in 2024, global temperatures have already exceeded this critical threshold for over 10 months. Despite this alarming trend, scientists and advocates emphasize that every fraction of a degree in temperature rise matters, urging continued and intensified efforts to combat climate change. Understanding the 1.5°C Target The Paris Agreement aimed to keep global warming well below 2°C, with an ideal target of 1.5°C to avoid the most severe impacts of climate change. This limit is crucial as exceeding it increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as the devastating floods in Pakistan in 2022 and record heatwaves in Asia. Challenges with Current Climate Goals While many corporations have pledged to align with the 1.5°C target, their strategies often fall short....

This Senator Wants Canadian Banks to Fight Climate Change In a bold move to combat climate change, Senator Rosa Galvez of Quebec has introduced the Climate-Aligned Finance Act. This legislation aims to reshape the financial landscape in Canada by pushing banks and pension funds to move away from investments in high-emission sectors such as oil and gas. Galvez's proposal also seeks to enhance regulatory oversight and limit the influence of fossil fuel executives within these institutions. The Need for Change Galvez, a former engineer and professor with extensive experience in environmental impact studies, believes the financial sector is crucial for achieving climate goals. "The part that is missing is the finance sector, which actually should be the first sector in order to start obtaining results," she explains. Her legislation would empower the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions to rigorously evaluate and oversee the climate plans of financial insti...

Helping Veterans Heal, One Beehive at a Time Not all wounds of war can be seen. Some battle scars run much deeper, affecting the soul. Gary LaGrange, a retired U.S. Army colonel, understands this profoundly. After a 30-year military career, this Vietnam veteran has dedicated his life to helping returning servicemembers transition back to civilian life and heal from PTSD through an innovative program he founded: Valor Honey. The Mission of Valor Honey LaGrange’s journey with Valor Honey began post-9/11 when he realized the potential of agricultural careers for veterans. With over 1.5 million veterans looking for new opportunities, and many expressing interest in agriculture, beekeeping emerged as a viable entry point. It requires a small land footprint and is affordable. In 2012, inspired by his daughter's success in using farming projects for therapy at Fort Riley, LaGrange launched a pilot program to train veterans in beekeeping. The program started with 24 beehives and 14 partic...

Is Climate Change Behind All Extreme Weather Events? In 2024, the world has witnessed a series of alarming extreme weather events, from floods and heatwaves across Africa to deluges in southern Brazil and extreme heat across Asia, including India. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), this year has seen unprecedented droughts, extreme heat, and floods, causing severe damage to health and livelihoods. Global Impact of Extreme Weather WMO climate expert Alvaro Silva notes, "Almost every region in the world saw extreme weather and climate events of different natures." The last weekend of May highlighted this trend with severe storms and tornadoes causing fatalities in the US, a massive landslide in Papua New Guinea, and superstorm Remal impacting millions in the Bay of Bengal. Climate Change and Weather Patterns While not every extreme weather event can be directly attributed to climate change, the increasing frequency and intensity of these events are link...

Veteran Finds Healing and Prosperity Through Beekeeping With USDA Grants Just outside of Fayetteville, North Carolina, veteran farmer Jim Hartman embodies the resilience and resourcefulness of the honeybees he tends to. After a decade in the United States Army and nearly 12 years with a large defense contractor, Hartman faced mounting injuries and PTSD. Traditional treatments failed him, but a recommendation from a veteran friend to try beekeeping changed his life. In 2020, Hartman sold his first batch of honey and experienced significant improvements in his well-being. This positive change prompted him to leave the corporate world and immerse himself in agriculture. Using his military training, he developed a strategic plan to establish his honey business, focusing on securing government funding to support his venture. “Eighty percent of your money is made in the paperwork,” Hartman noted. Hartman’s first step was contacting the USDA Farm Service Agency, where he received assistance t...

The Hidden Impact of Climate Change: Disrupting Tree and Fungi Partnerships As climate change continues to reshape our planet, many tree species are finding their traditional habitats increasingly inhospitable. While other plants and animals are swiftly relocating to more suitable environments, trees are lagging behind. New research suggests that the reason for this delay might be found belowground, in the complex and often overlooked world of soil fungi. The Role of Mycorrhizal Fungi Trees, particularly those in northern latitudes, rely heavily on mycorrhizal fungi. These microscopic fungi form extensive networks in the soil, connecting with tree roots to provide essential nutrients in exchange for carbon. Most large coniferous trees in these regions form partnerships with a specific type of mycorrhizal fungi called ectomycorrhizal fungi. Impact of Climate Change on Symbiotic Relationships A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has highlighte...

Invasion Alert: Yellow-Legged Hornet Threatens US Honeybee Colonies The United States is facing a new environmental threat as the Yellow-Legged Hornet, Vespa velutina, makes its presence known. This predator, larger than the typical yellowjacket and marked by its distinctive bright yellow legs, is notorious for its brutal method of capturing and butchering honeybees in mid-air, swiftly taking the most nutritious part—the thorax. Origin and Spread According to recent reports, researchers have identified this invasive species originating from Afghanistan, eastern China, and Indonesia. Over the past two decades, the Yellow-Legged Hornet has expanded its territory, infiltrating South Korea, Japan, and Europe. The hornet's arrival in North America has raised significant alarm among environmentalists and agricultural authorities. Impact on Honeybee Populations This hornet poses a severe threat to honeybee populations. It preys on bees, deterring foragers from leaving their hives, which...

  The Overwhelming Reality of Climate Change: A Sewage Crisis In recent years, the rising tide of climate change denial has coincided with a more literal rising tide—one that is now leading to a sewage crisis in many American communities. As sea levels along the Gulf and South Atlantic coasts have risen by at least six inches since 2010, the consequences have become increasingly tangible and alarming. Overflowing Septic Tanks: A Growing Health Threat During my high school years on the South Shore of Long Island, the faint smell of sewage from overflowing septic tanks was a part of life. Today, this issue has escalated to a new level, particularly in the Southeast, where many homes still rely on septic systems. The rising groundwater, driven by climate change, now frequently overwhelms these systems, posing serious public health risks. The Underestimated Cost of Climate Change The sewage crisis is just one of many severe consequences we face as our planet warms. The damage is prov...

STOSSEL: Scaremongering about a ‘bee-pocalypse’ In recent years, headlines have warned of a looming "bee-pocalypse" threatening our food supply and ecosystems. Terms like "bee-mageddon" stir public fear, suggesting catastrophic outcomes if honeybee populations decline. However, this narrative might be more hype than reality. The Bee Crisis and Media Hysteria Around 20 years ago, American beekeepers faced a mysterious crisis known as colony collapse disorder (CCD). Hives were suddenly empty, with bees vanishing without a trace. While the exact cause of CCD remains unknown, the media seized on the story, projecting it as an impending environmental disaster. Despite these alarming reports, the situation has improved significantly. Beekeepers adapted by splitting surviving colonies to create new hives, leading to a rebound in bee populations. "We're not in any way facing an apocalypse," says Jon Entine, a Science journalist and director of the Genetic Lite...