Biodiversity Stories
In this new epoch, human influence is ubiquitous in the natural world. Coverage of terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems in Anthropocene magazine takes a critical look at humans’ changing relationship with the natural world—and ways to promote biodiversity in the novel ecosystems we’ve created.
Solar farms can create crucial pollinator habitat
Researchers found that shade from solar panels increased floral abundance and delayed blooming—a win for pollinators
Pandemic might get people to drop wild meat from the menu
A survey of thousands in Asian countries found people with a high awareness of Covid-19 were more likely to cut back on consuming wild meat. A conservation group wants to harness this to put a dent in the wildlife trade.
Nanosilver may cut down on odor, but does it make clothing “green”?
Less frequent laundering may not offset the additional environmental impacts of using antimicrobial silver nanoparticles in textiles.
What’s driving the remarkable decline of urban sprawl in the US?
A new study finds that a primary culprit has been rising gas prices—spurring denser development in communities across the country.
Two fish. Two divergent fates. And the power of regulations.
Tuna populations on the rebound as fishing limits take hold. But lightly regulated sharks continue their downward spiral.
Spies Like Us
Armed with low-cost surveillance technologies, nonprofits aided by “citizen spies” are tracking fracking in Pennsylvania, flaring in North Dakota, and rogue fishing around Easter Island
The more bees the merrier farmer
Crops benefit from a diversity of pollinating bees, and the benefits grow the longer scientists track them.
More than half of rare species need intensive, hands-on help to ward off extinction
As world leaders discuss committing to protect 30% of the world's habitat, scientists warn that won't be enough for many endangered species.
What’s the economic value of intact ecosystems compared to human-dominated ones?
The answer, researchers contend, depends on many factors—key among them, the price of carbon
Want to jumpstart habitat restoration? Try a soil transplant.
Work to restore ecosystems have long struggled. Now scientists say and injection of natural soil - and all the microbes and plants mixed in - could help.