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Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders push bill to impose AI data center moratorium
A bill introduced by two high-profile progressive lawmakers would pause new data centers in the United States until national safeguards are in place to protect workers and consumers and ensure the technologies don’t harm the environment.
Global Chemicals Science Panel Fails to Launch After Chaotic First Meeting - Center for International Environmental Law
Global chemicals science panel stalls after chaotic first meeting in Geneva, exposing political obstruction and delays in tackling toxic pollution.
Science happens here! Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology invites public to free Open House Saturday, May 2, 2026
Dive into the world of marine science and explore cool tech at this open house you won't want to miss! Have you ever wondered what happens in that unique
KCCI Investigates: What one science teacher taught students about water quality
First- through fifth-grade students at Bergman Academy in Des Moines took on one of Iowa's biggest environmental issues at the school's first science fair: water quality.
Glyphosate: A story of science, risk, and nuance
In the summer of 2014, a California groundskeeper named Dewayne Johnson started noticing patches of raw, weeping skin spreading across his body. He had spent years applying Roundup, Monsanto’s glyphosate-based herbicide, for a school district, sometimes drenched in it when equipment malfunctioned. By 2014, he had a diagnosis: non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. In 2018, a jury awarded him $289 million in damages, later reduced on appeal. Tens of thousands of lawsuits followed. The story hasn’t quieted down. It’s all over the internet, swinging between “this will kill you, buy organic” and “relax, you’re fear-mongering.” Some of that recent chatter stems from an Executive Order protecting glyphosate and its production, which set off intense infighting within the MAHA movement. Some of it reflects a deeper truth: Americans genuinely care about harmful chemicals in their environment (see poll below). And the conversation isn’t going anywhere, with a Supreme Court case involving Monsanto set for this April. Glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world. But does glyphosate cause cancer? And how much exposure is actually risky? With so much mistrust in institutions and corporations (and some genuine conflicts of interest), making sense of the actual scientific evidence is genuinely hard. Here is a translation of what the scientific evidence actually says. Does glyphosate cause harm? Glyphosate is an herbicide that kills most plants it contacts rather than targeting specific species. It works by blocking an enzyme pathway (EPSPS) that plants and many microorganisms need to produce essential amino acids. Without those amino acids, the plant can’t grow and dies. Glyphosate was first developed by Monsanto in the 1970s and became ubiquitous after the company introduced “Roundup Ready” crops in the 1990s. In 2024, Bayer removed glyphosate from residential Roundup-branded products due to litigation pressure. But today it is still the most widely used herbicide in the world. Farmers also discovered they could spray it directly on crops like oats, lentils, beans, and peas just before harvest to dry them out faster and make harvesting easier. Because of its widespread use, it’s obviously really important to understand if it’s harmful to humans. The key principle: The dose makes the poison The most important concept in toxicology is that “the dose makes the poison.” Sixteenth-century physician Paracelsus articulated what remains the foundational principle of toxicology: sola dosis facit venenum. Water will kill you if you drink enough of it. Aspirin saves lives at 81 milligrams and causes internal bleeding at higher chronic doses. So, at what dose is glyphosate poisonous? The LD50 in rats (the dose that kills half the test animals) is around 5,600 mg/kg body weight. Table salt is roughly 3,000 mg/kg. By that classic measure, glyphosate is less acutely toxic than salt. But some people are exposed to a lot of glyphosate through their work. And among the general public, there are many questions about low-dose, cumulative exposure from multiple sources over long periods. Does glyphosate cause health problems? Cancer Correlation maps are striking, with one analysis finding that 60% of counties that spray the most glyphosate have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma rates above the national average. But correlation alone doesn’t establish cause, which is why animal and human studies matter. In animals: Rat studies are typically what most fear is rooted in, but most people don’t know the study details on the dosage given to rats. A pooled analysis of the 13 most rigorous rat studies found evidence that very high doses, around 55,000 times greater than typical food residue exposure, can cause certain cancers. In humans: One of the strongest studies followed 55,000 herbicide users over 20 years and found no overall increased cancer risk. There was one signal: among those with the highest use, rates of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) appeared elevated. A broader meta-analysis of 18 human studies also found no overall cancer risk, though a separate meta-analysis focused specifically on non-Hodgkin lymphoma found that people with high cumulative glyphosate exposure faced a 41% higher relative risk compared to those with low or no exposure. These human studies are observational studies (randomized controlled trials would be unethical), and meta-analyses are only as reliable as the studies they pool. But the story seems consistent: at very high exposure levels, there may be some cancer risk. But that’s about as far as the science currently takes us. Emerging research: gut and reproductive health Gut: Because glyphosate targets a pathway that exists in some gut bacteria, scientists have questioned whether it could affect the microbiome. In mice, a 2023 University of Iowa study found that glyphosate altered gut bacterial composition and raised markers of intestinal inflammation. A 2024 systematic review found similar patterns: disrupted gut bacteria and problems with the mucus layer that protects the intestinal wall in mice. Whether this translates to humans is an open question. The human gut is highly variable and resistant, and we don't yet have strong studies confirming the same effects in people. Reproductive health: Animal studies have found that glyphosate-based herbicides can interfere with reproductive hormones, including disrupting egg cell development in mice and reducing the number of eggs available in sheep’s ovaries. However, the doses used in these experiments were high, so it’s not yet clear whether the same effects would occur in humans. On the human side, a 2021 pilot study led by Mount Sinai researchers tested urine samples from pregnant women across the U.S. and found glyphosate in 95% of them. The study also found a possible connection between higher glyphosate exposure during pregnancy and a subtle physical difference measured in female newborns. That said, some connections weren’t statistically reliable and this was a small study. The researchers themselves said more and larger studies are needed before drawing firm conclusions. What do regulators say about glyphosate safety? In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans" (Group 2A). The classification is worth taking seriously. But, there’s an important distinction: IARC classifies hazard, meaning the potential to cause harm under some conditions. It does not assess risk, which accounts for actual exposure levels and the real-world probability of harm. The U.S. EPA, the European Food Safety Authority, Health Canada, and regulatory agencies in Australia and Japan have all concluded that glyphosate is “unlikely to be carcinogenic to humans” at realistic exposure levels. They’re asking a different question: given how much of this people actually encounter, what is the probability of harm? Your actual exposure is what determines your actual risk. What does glyphosate mean for your daily life? At the grocery store: Food residues are small. The EPA’s acceptable daily intake is 1.75 mg/kg of body weight per day. To hit that threshold from oatmeal alone, a 150-pound adult would need to eat roughly 50 pounds of oats every day. But this calculation addresses only one pathway (food), and we don’t yet have robust tools to measure people’s actual total exposure. If reducing exposure matters to you, organic certification prohibits synthetic herbicides, and organic oat products generally test at lower or undetectable levels. Either way, a diet rich in whole grains, conventional or organic, is far better for your health than one that omits them out of fear of residues. On the farm: Occupational exposure is orders of magnitude higher than consumer exposure. Farmers and farm workers who mix, load, and apply glyphosate-based herbicides, especially without protective equipment, face meaningfully different risk profiles. Proper PPE isn’t optional. Integrated weed management strategies that rotate chemical modes of action are also worth taking seriously, both for health and for long-term effectiveness. If you live near a farm: Spray drift is real. Concentrations near field edges can spike during and after application, particularly on windy days. This is an area where I think public health could really step up and empower rural communities with buffer zones, rather than placing the onus on individuals. But for now, knowing your local agricultural calendar and keeping windows closed during application are the first steps. Bottom line Dewayne Johnson was exposed to glyphosate at levels most people will never encounter, and a jury decided he deserved compensation. That outcome is not evidence that the oatmeal in your pantry is dangerous. But it is a reminder that the dose, the context, and the person doing the exposing all matter enormously. Glyphosate is a chemical tool with benefits, trade-offs, and genuine open scientific questions. Learning to hold that complexity without collapsing into panic or dismissal is, honestly, one of the most useful and hardest things to do in navigating modern health science. Love, YLE Your Local Epidemiologist (YLE) is founded and operated by Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, MPH PhD—an epidemiologist, wife, and mom of two little girls. Hannah Totte, MPH, is an epidemiologist and YLE Community Manager. YLE reaches more than 425,000 people in over 132 countries with one goal: “Translate” the ever-evolving public health science so that people will be well-equipped to make evidence-based decisions. This newsletter is free to everyone, thanks to the generous support of fellow YLE community members. To support the effort, subscribe or upgrade below: Subscribe
From idea to publication: How RISE Ambassadors are impacting science education
When Sara Brownell began the RISE Ambassadors program three years ago as part of her Charter Professorship, she hoped to make a positive impact on STEM learning environments by empowering undergraduate students to have greater agency in both the research conducted and its translation into meaningful change.
Women’s Month Weekly: There’s never been a better time to be a girl in sports
With the influx of audiences now drawn to women's sports, younger girls are growing up in an environment that celebrates them.
How easing regulations on heavy metals air pollution could impact health | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
A recent repeal of federal environmental regulations aimed at limiting the emission of mercury and other heavy metals from power plants could have serious health impacts, according to Harvard Chan School experts.
The politics of public health from Obamacare to COVID
The last three presidents — Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Donald Trump — have all had to deal with health care in America. And along the way, they've clashed with how politics works in Washington D.C. This created today’s environment where the understanding of science is scorned, medical disinformation thrives and creating a nation unprepared for the next health crisis.
Chan School of Public Health Department Chair Departs for UCLA
Kari Nadeau, an environmental health leader, will serve as the dean of the Fielding School of Public Health.
Marathon has sold 1.2M copies across Steam, PS5, and Xbox
Alinea Analytics estimates show that Marathon has generated gross revenues of $55M via 1.2M copies sold on Steam, PS5, and Xbox: Looking at the split between Steam, PS5, and Xbox, Steam is clearly the main platform for Marathon, accounting for a little under 70% of the audience (800K copies sold). Meanwhile, PS5 takes about 19% (217K) and Xbox (including console, PC, and cloud) accounts for a bit over 11% or 133K. Marathon is technically a first-party Sony title, so seeing the home console struggle to break 20% of the volume is a notable data point for the ongoing platform-agnostic debate. PlayStation Studios online games will almost certainly continue being multiplatform (despite Sony reportedly pulling back on PC releases). Subscribe for free to get the most accurate games estimates in your inbox twice a week 🫶 Subscribe As for Marathon, the consensus among hardcore players who pushed through the awkward onboarding phase – myself included – is that it’s fantastic. The gunplay, aesthetic, and presentation are among the best in the shooter genre. A great game doesn’t always equal an immediate hit, though, as shown by our estimates. Things are looking lukewarm right now. But this might be one of those marathon-not-a-sprint situations. Had to, didn’t I? Why wasn’t Marathon a hit on the same level as Arc Raiders? One topic that came up in a lot of conversations at GDC this year was why Marathon hasn’t hit the same stratosphere as Arc Raiders. On paper, they’re both extraction shooters, and Marathon has the Bungie pedigree – the house that built the gold standard for gunplay in Halo and Destiny. Marathon’s neon-futuristic aesthetic also distinguishes itself from the gritty realism of Tarkov or the post-apocalyptic hope of ARC Raiders. But vibes can only get you so far for first impressions if the onboarding feels like a brick wall. Marathon is a sweaty PvP-focused experience with a first-time user experience and UI that I can only describe as dreadful. Players are dropped into a complex ecosystem where the UI, though visually striking, is functionally uninformative, forcing users to manually hover over nondescript, identical icons just to identify basic gear or weapon mods. This lack of clarity is compounded by punishing mechanics like a severe heat gauge for movement and a scarcity of vital resources, all without a clear tutorial or a low-stakes mode to learn the ropes. Most people – even top streamers and veteran shooter players – have no idea what’s going on in Marathon at first. Arc is on the complete other end of the spectrum. As we covered here and here, Arc Raiders offers a more collaborative, approachable loop where players often work together toward shared goals. And the objectives are instantly clear. To many players, this contrast only emphasised Marathon’s issues, especially during the testing period. Players understand the Arc Raiders loop within 30 minutes, while Marathon acts as a massive filter, chewing up newcomers and spitting them out before they can experience the depth of Bungie’s signature gunplay. What I’m getting at here is that the poor first-time user experience of Marathon’s Server Slam likely stifled launch sales, while the opposite was true for Arc. Let’s look at the pre-launch copies sold for each game during their respective Server Slams (launch-aligned) : Looking at the trajectory: Arc Raiders saw a massive 80% jump in copies sold during its three-day Server Slam (day -13 to -11). Players jumped in, realised the water was fine, and immediately opened their wallets. Marathon, meanwhile, saw a 49% increase in the four days following its Slam (Day -7 to -3). At the time of each game’s respective launch, Arc Raiders had nearly double the Steam footprint of Marathon – and word of mouth only continued to grow. Bungie could have had more time to fix the onboarding process had the beta happened earlier. But Marathon launched three days after the beta finished. These factors limited the launch sales quite a bit, I reckon. Marathon has found a niche audience, though Despite the friction-heavy start, the data suggests that those who survived Marathon’s onboarding are loving life. We’ve been tracking cross-platform DAUs, and while there’s the expected post-launch leakage, many players are sticking with it. After peaking at 478K total DAUs on its first Saturday, Marathon has settled into a respectable rhythm, holding 345K DAUs as of yesterday and averaging 380K DAUs across the weekend. Steam continues to do the heavy lifting here, consistently accounting for the lion’s share of the daily players. Players have been putting in the hours, too: On Steam, Marathon’s average playtime has climbed to 27.8 hours, significantly outpacing the console averages on PS5 (16.5h) and Xbox (17.3h). Even more telling than the averages: 22% of the Steam audience has surged past the 50-hour mark, and nearly 7% have already logged over 100 hours. Subscribe for free to get the most accurate games estimates in your inbox twice a week 🫶 Subscribe This data suggests that once the Bungie magic clicks, it hooks players deeper than the average extraction shooter. There’s also started to be a shift in the game’s discourse. Marathon launched as one of those games that’s cool to hate. But as Marathon’s 100-hour club grows, we’re seeing conversations around its mechanical merit outweigh the negativity. Several high-profile creators, who were initially vocal critics, have spent the last week coming around on the mechanical depth of the endgame. It’s a subtle but positive signal; the hate train is losing steam, and a new narrative about the game is emerging. Bungie faithfuls unite Another interesting metric in Marathon’s first few weeks is who, exactly, is playing. Bungie leans heavily on its prestige as the “makers of Halo and Destiny,” in its marketing, and that message has clearly hit the mark. On Steam, the gravity (hammer) of Bungie’s previous work is unavoidable. A staggering 78.2% of Marathon players also played Destiny 2. The trend carries across other platforms, with 74.2% of PS5 players and 82.7% of Xbox players also having played Destiny 2. The Halo legacy lives on, it seems. More on that in a bit. While Destiny 2 went free to play, these numbers still represent a high-intent migration of a fanbase that trusts Bungie’s specific brand of kinetic gunplay and cryptic world-building. The Xbox data adds another layer of legacy. About 85.7% of Marathon players on Xbox have played Halo Infinite, while over half of the Steam audience has spent time in Halo Infinite and 36.1% in the Master Chief Collection (a paid collection of the old Bungie-made legacy games). Interestingly, we see a 55.9% overlap with ARC Raiders on Steam. Overlap is even higher there on PlayStation (60.5%) and Xbox (66.5%). And there’s also significant crossover with Helldivers 2 on all platforms, too. Subscribe for free to get the most accurate games estimates in your inbox twice a week 🫶 Subscribe Bungie has found some of its fans with Marathon, and the challenge now is keeping this engaged in a high-stakes PvP environment when they’ve spent the last decade primarily enjoying the power fantasies of PvE. On that note… Go the full 26 miles? Or cut and run? Time for some could’ve, should’ve, would’ve. These things would have improved Marathon’s performance at launch: A more robust onboarding process, perhaps in the form of a short single-player/PvE campaign. We know Bungie fans love this stuff. A traditional arena-based mode akin to Destiny’s Crucible could have been a bridge for the cautious players who’d have been otherwise deterred by the Server Slam. It’s also a great palate cleanser after getting merked. Introducing a dedicated PvE environment would have similarly diversified the conversation and lowered the barrier for the Bungie faithful who found the pure PvP extraction loop too abrasive. PvE is safer than PvP these days. There’s an argument that a thin PvE mode would have just felt like a budget Destiny, potentially hurting the brand more. But given how dire the FTUE is, I think it would have been a net positive. Any kind of tutorialised loop that demystifies the stakes, really. While there is merit in a studio sticking firmly to a singular creative vision, and going all in on the hardcore extraction loop. Less forgiving is the technical reality is that the user interface and first-time user experience (FTUE) were not at a commercial standard for launch. Subscribe for free to get the most accurate games estimates in your inbox twice a week 🫶 Subscribe In a landscape where player time is oversaturated and the most contested currency, a flawed FTUE is a critical failure point. But it’s not all doom and gloom, as Marathon has an incredible, unique gameplay loop, suggesting that financial success is still attainable if Bungie can pivot effectively. Bungie and PlayStation now face a difficult strategic crossroads, though – one within a challenging games market. They could: Double down on Marathon with a long-term Rainbow Six Siege- or No Man’s Sky-style recovery plan, which is something I heard Last Stand Media’s Chris Maldonado mention last week. While this could be a sunk-cost fallacy in action, it could eventually yield the audience the game’s mechanical depth deserves. Shift focus toward the inevitable Destiny 3 or another project, mitigating the escalating opportunity cost and cutting their losses, so to speak. Doing both is an expensive proposition, given the high overhead and burn rate of operating out of Bellevue, Washington. With Sony recently demonstrating a lower threshold for underperforming studios and projects, the margin for error has vanished. Whatever happens, the next six months will determine whether Marathon becomes a cornerstone of Sony’s live-service portfolio or a cautionary tale of vision exceeding accessibility. I’m hoping it’s the former, because Marathon rocks. As always, hit subscribe to get updates on Marathon and other relevant games. Subscribe Want to get your hands on our data for yourself – for free? We’re offering a free trial of our platform for games companies. Send us a message here, or reply to this email, and we’ll set you up. The last word Reply to this email – or reach out here – if you have any feedback for the newsletter – or want to request a game for us to cover. [Alinea Analytics boasts the most accurate PC and console estimates in the business. Game makers use our platform to understand their audience, keep an eye on the competition, monitor sales trends, and spot new opportunities. We equip game studios and financial institutions with accurate data and the confidence to make smarter, data-driven decisions. Want to talk about all things games market data? We’d love to chat!]
Kari Nadeau named dean of the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health
Nadeau, currently chair of environmental health at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, will begin her new role in July.
Why going to an HBCU might be better for Black students’ health
A study found correlation between the environment and long-term wellness in sample of 1,978 who attended college between 1940-80
Scientists Must Speak Clearly, Especially in Court: Five Tips for Clear Communication
As climate impacts intensify, so does the legal push to hold polluters accountable, protect vulnerable communities, and enforce environmental laws. And in these legal cases, science is key. Because science can’t present itself on the stand, scientists are essential to give scientific results a voice
Hochul pushes environmental review reforms amid state budget negotiations
Hochul has touted the policy as a key element of her affordability agenda.
UCI Health lays off 150 workers as part of restructuring
UCI Health said the cuts were prompted by a changing environment that includes shifts in federal funding, reimbursement pressures and rising operational costs,
Bird‑like robots promise greater flexibility and control than drones
A bird banking in a crosswind doesn't rely on spinning blades. Its wings flex, twist and respond instantly to its environment. Engineers at Rutgers University have taken a major step toward building bird-like ...
Data centers under scrutiny by California lawmakers as fears rise about health and energy impacts
Due to health and energy concerns, the California Legislature is considering bills to prohibit data centers from being exempted from the state's stringent environmental law and impose new tariffs on new major energy users that strain power supplies.
David Suzuki at 90: A life in science, and a warning still unheard
With ninety laps around the sun, David Suzuki reflects on a lifetime of science advocacy and environmental work. Despite decades of effort, he warns that humanity may have already crossed a tipping point on climate change.
Martin Parr's Last Hurrah
Two new coffee-table books revisit the late photographer's wry images—and the environmental warning simmering beneath them.
Press Release - Girls in STEM Program from Keystone Science School
Delivered in an all-girl+ learning environment, Keystone Science School’s Girls in STEM programs encourage participation, collaboration, leadership, and confidence.
Allegheny County health board considers fracking impacts
There are 225 active wells located on 30 well pads in Allegheny County, according to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection analyzed by the non-profit Fractracker Alliance.
Hermès made a $5K leather MagSafe Duo charging case for iPhone and Apple Watch
Apple may be out of the leather business for environmental reasons, but its partner Hermès is far from it. The...
An experimental AI agent broke out of its testing environment and mined crypto without permission
Researchers discovered that an AI agent roamed beyond its parameters, creating backdoors in IT infrastructure.
Looking for Answers Before Birth: How 2 UT Health Sciences Researchers Are Re-examining Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity is often framed as a problem of habits, including what children eat, how much they move, and the environments in which they grow up.
German Health Minister Nina Warken and WHO Hub in Berlin highlight 2025 achievements
Germany’s Federal Minister of Health, Nina Warken, visited the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence in Berlin today to review progress and launch its 2025 Annual Report. The report highlights advances in using artificial intelligence, data science and pathogen genomics to strengthen global preparedness for future pandemics.In 2025, the WHO Hub in Berlin worked with more than 160 Member States and over 190 partners to help countries and organizations develop new systems and tools to detect and understand new public health threats as quickly as possible, whenever and wherever they occur.BMG to confirm whether they wish to contribute a quote. “Detecting outbreaks early is one of the most effective ways to save lives and prevent epidemics from becoming global crises,” said Federal Minister of Health Nina Warken. “Germany is proud to host and support the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence. Its work strengthens our safety at home and helps protect people worldwide.”Artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming the detection of outbreaks. In 2025, the Hub launched an upgraded version of the Epidemic Intelligence from Open Sources (EIOS) system, which uses enhanced AI functions to scan global online information in real time and help experts quickly identify unusual health events. The system is now used by 120 countries.To better anticipate health threats, countries need information beyond traditional health data. The Hub supports countries in implementing Collaborative Surveillance, which integrates data on climate, animals, travel, and population movement to provide a more comprehensive and real-time understanding of health threats.The Hub also expanded global access to pathogen genomics, which helps scientists detect new pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, understand how they spread and how dangerous they may become. Through the International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN), the WHO Hub in Berlin worked with 309 partners in 101 countries to expand access to these technologies.“We are in a new era of global health threats, and we need new tools to face tomorrow’s challenges,” said Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, Executive Director of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme. “The WHO Hub in Berlin helps countries use data and technology more effectively so they can identify risks earlier and respond faster. No country can address these threats alone. Strong cooperation remains our best defence.”“Berlin offers an ideal environment for our work. We collaborate closely with world-leading institutions such as the Robert Koch Institute and the Charité Center for Global Health,” said Dr Oliver Morgan, Head of the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence. “Germany has supported the WHO Hub since its establishment, and we are pleased to welcome Federal Minister Nina Warken to the Hub today. This strong partnership helps us advance innovation in pandemic and epidemic intelligence and better support countries to prepare for future health threats.”The Hub is expanding the use of advanced analytics and mathematical modelling to forecast how outbreaks may develop and to assess which response measures are most effective. Through its Collaboratory, the Hub connects modelers and analysts with governments to ensure their work addresses real public health needs. In 2025, the community grew to 1300 members from 50 countries and 200 institutions. An AI-powered pandemic simulator, currently in the prototyping phase, will help decision-makers compare outbreak scenarios and help identify effective disease control measures.
Federal investment fuels new labs for coastal science and restoration
The two are part of the Institute of Environment’s efforts to expand research on the Everglades, Biscayne Bay and other South Florida’s coastal ecosystems. The project received $11.5 million in funds.
Chelsea Handler claims RFK Jr. and Cheryl Hines sold her 'disaster' house: 'Most toxic environment'
Chelsea Handler is claiming that RFK Jr. and Cheryl Hines sold her a 'disaster' house that she still has not lived in to this day: 'The most toxic environment.'
Environmental science student earns prestigious internship at Germany’s Freiburg University
Nelly Koz has always made an impact in her community through her love of the outdoors. Now, she’ll have a chance to make an impact on a global level. The environmental science major recently accepted a lucrative internship at Freiburg University in Germany, where she will help with data collection and recording observations on a section of the Black Forest that serves as a living laboratory.
Study focuses on health care in Appalachian areas recovering from Hurricane Helene
Julia Gohlke, who has studied environmental disasters throughout her career, is turning her attention to the storm’s aftermath in regions near and dear to her personal history.
Black women lead fastest-growing segment of US entrepreneurs
Black women are launching businesses at a faster rate than any other demographic in the U.S., driven in part by layoffs, stalled promotions and a corporate environment many say feels increasingly inhospitable, The Wall Street Journal writes. The number of Black women-owned businesses rose about 13% last year, according to research from Wells Fargo and […]
Clear Space, Clear Mind: The Science Behind Decluttering
Want a clearer mind? Here are five surprising ways that a clutter-free environment can boost our well-being.
Scientists discover what really happens during sourdough fermentation
New research shows that sourdough fermentation does more than make bread rise—it transforms wheat fibers in unexpected ways. Scientists found that enzymes already present in wheat, activated by the sourdough’s acidic environment, break down key fibres called arabinoxylans. This process may influence the bread’s texture, digestibility, and flavor. Some microbes even create buttery or subtly sweet notes that give sourdough its distinctive taste.
Strengthening One Health Field Epidemiology Capacity in the WHO South-East Asia Region
Recent public health emergencies—including the COVID-19 pandemic, recurrent zoonotic disease outbreaks, and the high level of antimicrobial resistance—have underscored the urgent need for strong, multisectoral field epidemiology capacities. This reinforces the importance of a workforce equipped with One Health field epidemiology competencies. To address this need, WHO works with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), as part of Quadripartite Alliance for One Health, to strengthen field epidemiology training programmes using a One Health approach.These efforts are aligned with WHO SEARO’s Strategic Framework for Action for Strengthening Surveillance, Risk Assessment and Field Epidemiology and the Regional Roadmap to Advance Field Epidemiology Capacities 2025–2029 emphasize workforce development, multisectoral collaboration, and enhanced preparedness for health emergencies. With funding from the Pandemic Fund, The Competency for One Health Field Epidemiology (COHFE) integration within Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs) or similar initiatives has been initiated in Bangladesh and India and is planned in Sri Lanka.BangladeshIn Bangladesh, COHFE is being adapted to strengthen the Field Epidemiology Training Programme, Bangladesh (FETP-B) Advanced programme. Initiated in July 2025 and led by the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), the process brought together stakeholders from human, animal, and environmental health sectors, academia, and laboratories.A Multisectoral Working Group (MWG) was established to guide implementation, conduct readiness assessments, and identify opportunities to institutionalize One Health collaboration. Through national multisectoral consultations and a competency prioritization workshop held in Dhaka in November 2025, stakeholders identified priority technical competencies for surveillance, outbreak investigation, data analysis, and risk assessment, alongside functional competencies related to leadership, coordination, and the laboratory–epidemiology interface. The process also surfaced systemic barriers—such as challenges in data sharing and limited joint investigations—enabling targeted recommendations. These outcomes are guiding curriculum revision, the introduction of One Health simulations and joint field exercises, and the development of a national multisectoral mentorship pool, with updated training materials expected to be implemented in the upcoming cohort.Figure 1. Competency prioritization involving multisectoral stakeholders“COHFE represents a significant step forward in operationalizing the One Health approach. The collaboration between national institutions and the Quadripartite partners is critical for building resilient systems to address complex health challenges in the region.”, Prof. (Dr) Tahmina Sirin, Director, Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Bangladesh.Aligning India’s One Health Training with COHFEIn India, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has strengthened One Health workforce development through its SectorConnect initiative. WHO supported a comprehensive competency mapping and curriculum review to align the Field Epidemiology Programme in One Health (FEP-OH) with all 14 COHFE domains. The review identified strong foundations while generating actionable recommendations to strengthen One Health learning outcomes, expand joint field-based learning, and enhance competency-based assessment. These improvements are informing programme refinement and phased scale-up across additional states.Figure 2. Strengthening learning outcomes for the SectorConnect FEP OH CurriculumThrough these efforts, WHO SEARO will continue to support countries to move from separate sector-based training toward an integrated, impact-driven One Health field epidemiology workforce capable of addressing complex health threats at human-animal-environment interface.ReferencesFood and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, World Health Organization, & World Organisation for Animal Health. (2024). Competencies for One Health field epidemiology (COHFE) framework. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240080058World Health Organization. (2023). Strategic framework for action for strengthening surveillance, risk assessment and field epidemiology for health security threats in the WHO South-East Asia Region. WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290210030World Health Organization. (2024). Regional roadmap to advance field epidemiology capacities in the WHO South-East Asia Region 2025–2029. WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290229544
Researchers Upload Fly’s Brain to Matrix, Let It Control Virtual Body
A company claims to have simulated the neurons of an adult fruit fly's brain and letting it roam inside a Matrix-like virtual environment.
Scientists discover hidden water beneath Mars that could have supported life
New research suggests Mars may have remained habitable much longer than scientists once thought. Ancient sand dunes in Gale Crater appear to have been soaked by underground water billions of years ago, leaving behind minerals that can preserve signs of life. Even after surface water disappeared, subsurface flows may have created protected environments for microbes. These hidden habitats could be key targets in the ongoing search for past life on Mars.
College football's scariest environments in 2026: Projecting the 10 best home-field advantages this fall
Sellouts and raucous crowds will be home to memorable performances on the grand stage this season
Iran War Creates a Public Health and Environmental Crisis
The United States and Israel's war against Iran is creating a public health and environmental crisis, as attacked oil depots spew toxins.
DEP study finds 'no risk to human health' from radiation in wastewater from Pa. landfills
A two-year study of radium in wastewater from Pennsylvania landfills by the Department of Environmental Protection did not find levels that would pose...
Science Notes: Generative AI and Its Impacts | Rockefeller Institute of Government
Generative AI is now embedded in everyday tools. Science Notes looks at the urgent questions about bias, ownership, misuse, and environmental impact.
Air quality health advisory issued in multiple counties over wildfire smoke
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment issued a health advisory for multiple counties Friday morning, due to wildfire smoke.
Trump policies set to increase rates of lung disease and death, study finds
Experts warn of ‘attack on Americans’ lungs’ from cuts to health programs, environmental rollbacks and other plans
New environmental justice track brings new perspectives and methods to environmental science
KINGSTON, R.I. – March 12, 2026 – With a world facing numerous challenges that affect not only the environment but the people within it, there is a growing need for innovative, interdisciplinary, and collaborative approaches to addressing global crises. However, there remains a gap between the scientists and the communities they aim to help, who […]
ExxonMobil to move its legal home from New Jersey to Texas, citing business friendly environment
ExxonMobil is poised to move its legal headquarters from New Jersey to Texas in search of a more friendly business environment, the company announced Tuesday morning. The board of directors for the largest U.S.-based oil producing company, which already runs its operations from the Houston suburb of Spring, unanimously recommended to its shareholders that they vote to redomicile the company…
Health Care Workforce: Federal Grants Supporting Mental Health
Health professionals often work in stressful environments that can affect their mental health. From 2022-2024, the Department of Health and Human...
ExxonMobil set to to move its legal home to Texas, citing business friendly environment
ExxonMobil is considering shifting its legal headquarters from New Jersey to Texas, as it looks for a friendlier business climate.
Scientists Just Used Some of Earth’s Worst Chemicals to Produce Battery-Grade Lithium
A new method transforms a "persistent environmental liability" into a much-desired resource, the researchers say.
Pleasant Valley 6th Graders Lead the Way in Supporting Science Camp
EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. – Pleasant Valley Middle School (PVM) students Emmy Emmons and Hazel Gillihan recently became the first students to present at the Gold Oak Union School District (GOUSD) February Board Meeting, sharing their experiences at Science Camp at Sly Park Environmental Education Center in Pollock Pines this past September. Working as a […]
Smart Plants in a Changing World Science
The Salk Institute is teaming up with the Del Mar Foundation for a three-part webinar series to highlight Salk's foundational research in brain health, cancer, and agriculture. Join us on Wednesday, March 11, at 10 a.m. to learn directly from Salk scientist Lucia Strader about how plants sense and respond to their environments, and how understanding these natural survival strategies can help us develop crops that thrive in a changing world. The Del Mar Foundation is offering a 1:1 Challenge Match through June. Gifts made during the webinar series will be matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling your impact on critical research. Donors who give $1,000 or more to an area of greatest need will also join the Discovery Society, with special access to Salk news and events. Salk Institute on Facebook / Instagram
How pollutants interact inside the body to impact health | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Peng Gao studies the “exposome”—the measure of an individual’s total environmental exposures over the course of their life and how those exposures impact biology and health.
ExxonMobil set to to move its legal home to Texas, citing business friendly environment
Gov. Greg Abbott celebrated the announcement on Tuesday, crediting Texas’ legal environment. Exxon has based its operations in the Houston area since 1989.
CMOC Congo Mine Pollution Damaged Local Health, Report Says
Air pollution by the world’s biggest cobalt producer appears to have damaged the health of local communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to an investigation by environmental groups.
Business for Good 2026
Maine companies are increasingly recognizing that success is measured by more than profit alone. Research shows that people value businesses that operate responsibly by protecting the environment, supporting their communities, and fostering workplaces built on shared purpose. Business for Good spotlights the Maine organizations, large and small, that are driving positive change through community involvement, responsible growth, and purpose-driven leadership.
Andexler Honored for Commitment to Science Advocacy
Northern Michigan University master's candidate Noah Andexler is one of 20 graduate students nationwide selected to receive the Ecological Society of America's (ESA) 2026 Katherine S. McCarter Graduate Student Policy Award for their demonstrated commitment to science advocacy. This prestigious program is designed to bridge the gap between rigorous ecological research and impactful environmental policy.
From the publisher: Business leaders are channeling CSR values into innovative models
Across the state, companies are redefining what success looks like. Profit remains essential. Growth matters. But more leaders are asking a broader question, What impact are we having on our employees, our communities and the environment we all share?
Community gathers at Bell Tower to 'Stand Up for Science', protesting national limitations to research
Attendees spoke about a range of issues impacting scientific inquiry and the environment — from national funding cuts to state rulings impacting environmental health and safety.
Local organizations using partnerships to protect health, environment
Simple but targeted actions can make a big difference in protecting people from environmental health harms.
Budget cuts at Environment and Climate Change Canada threaten Arctic science
For decades, ECCC research scientists have been integral to the work of the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme.
ANALYSIS | SpaceX wants to launch a million satellites. Here's how that could impact us here on Earth
Scientists are deeply concerned about SpaceX's recent proposal to launch one million satellites into orbit around Earth. Their concerns range from a loss of the natural night sky and our access to space, to the environmental impact on our atmosphere.
‘Sound Science’ Bills Limiting State Environmental Regulations Set ‘Insurmountable Burden of Proof,’ Scientists Say
Bills in four states require state environmental regulations to show “direct causal link” to “manifest bodily harm,” not just increased risk of disease. Scientists say that’s all but impossible.
Most People Feel Guilty About Their Tech Habits — But Won't Change Them. Here's Why That's a Big Opportunity for Businesses.
Recent research into the environmental footprint of digital infrastructure sheds light on why concern about tech's impact hasn't translated into changed habits.
Four more measles cases identified, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment says
Four more measles cases were identified in the Denver metro area, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment announced Friday morning.
Chris Cobos expands soil, water conservation science in Rollings Plains
Chris Cobos is the Texas A&M AgriLife Research environmental soil scientist at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Vernon.
Algae is a 'little vacuum' for microplastics. Midwest scientists think it could clean up the problem
Tiny shards of plastic called microplastics are all over the environment and even inside human bodies. Researchers have found a type of bioengineered algae that can clean up these pesky particles.
Among Young Climate Scientists, a Growing Interest In Geoengineering
Fed up with a lack of action on climate change, some students are researching dimming the sun despite the pushback from other scientists.
Building climate-ready healthcare facilities across Indonesia
The World Health Organization (WHO), working with the Ministry of Health and partners, developed the Climate-Resilient and Environmentally Sustainable Health Care Facilities assessment tools. These were adapted from WHO's global framework and integrated into the SIKELIM platform, a digital system that maps disaster-affected facilities in real time. The tools help facilities assess vulnerabilities across systems including workforce capacity, water and sanitation WASH and waste, energy, infrastructure and technology.
Business rebates for energy upgrades
The City, in partnership with the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), offers rebates for businesses making energy-efficiency improvements.
3L Kevin Afiesh Learns to Translate Legal Risk Into Business Strategy as FinTech Extern - UC Law San Francisco (Formerly UC Hastings)
3L Kevin Afiesh strengthened his corporate and fintech skillset through an externship at Plaid, gaining real-world experience at the intersection of technology and financial services. 3L student Kevin Afiesh shares how UC Law San Francisco’s Corporate Counsel Externship provided immersive, practice-ready training inside Plaid’s in-house legal department. Reviewed and analyzed technology-focused agreements, including emerging AI provisions and liability terms Explored financial services regulation and data governance within a growth-stage company Learned how internal legal teams shape product, partnership, and compliance planning 3L student Kevin Afiesh: During my externship at Plaid, I worked with the in-house legal team supporting a rapidly growing company at the intersection of technology and financial services. My work focused primarily on corporate, commercial, and intellectual property matters. I helped review and analyze vendor and partnership agreements, paying close attention to emerging artificial intelligence-related provisions and risk allocation terms. I also investigated regulatory and compliance issues involving financial services and data governance, and I researched intellectual property litigation relevant to fintech companies. This work supported legal risk assessment to guide strategic decision making. I learned firsthand how an in-house legal team operates in a highly regulated, innovation-driven environment, where legal analysis is closely integrated with business decision making. I saw how attorneys balance legal risk with commercial priorities and how their advice shapes contracting, compliance, and intellectual property strategy. It reinforced that effective in-house lawyers need to understand both the law and the operational realities of the business. The experience also strengthened my ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly to non-lawyers and to provide advice that is precise, practical, and commercially aware. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I’ve worked with technology companies at different stages. Plaid added a distinct perspective within the tech ecosystem, showing me how a growth-stage fintech company approaches regulatory complexity, innovation, and risk tolerance. This sharpened my ability to adapt to clients with different structures, priorities, and compliance needs. As I prepare to practice corporate law in the technology industry, this exposure has strengthened my ability to align legal advice with a company’s stage of growth, strategic objectives, and internal dynamics. I would absolutely recommend the Corporate Counsel Externship Program. Working directly with an in-house legal team provided a meaningful sense of day-to-day practice inside a technology company, and the attorneys at Plaid were generous with their time and mentorship. The classroom component was equally valuable. Professors Nira Geevargis and Scott Darling created a thoughtful environment where we reflected on our experiences, discussed real-world challenges, and developed practical skills that complemented our fieldwork. More broadly, UC Law San Francisco’s location offers a clear advantage for students interested in technology, corporate practice, and public-interest work. Proximity to courts, law firms, and innovative companies — combined with programs like the Corporate Counsel Externship and an extensive Bay Area alumni network — make it a strong option for students who want to build their careers in the region. The Evidence of Success series highlights UC Law SF students as they share how the college’s opportunities equip them with the experience, skills, and confidence to excel in the legal profession.
Asbestos exposure closes Trader Joe’s in SE Portland; officials say health risk ‘low’
The state environmental quality agency said the store would “remain closed until the asbestos is fully decontaminated.”
Modern, busy offices can be lonely places, Portland State University analysis shows
While someone’s personality traits might increase the likelihood of workplace loneliness, research finds the work environment can also play a significant role.
Scientists discover a hidden force that helps wire the brain
Growing neurons rely on chemical cues to find their targets, but new research shows that the brain’s physical properties help shape those signals. Scientists discovered that tissue stiffness can trigger the production of guidance molecules through a force-sensing protein called Piezo1. This protein not only detects mechanical forces but also helps maintain the structure of brain tissue. The discovery reveals a powerful link between the brain’s physical environment and how its wiring is built.
From moonquakes to Mars rovers: Rice science open house sparks curiosity in local community
Rice's second annual Earth, environmental and planetary science (EEPS) open house generated interest in science
Community members rally to save Lankenau Environmental Science High School
Students, teachers and families gathered at Lankenau Environmental Science High School on Wednesday to call for increased state education funding.
Seymour Studios goes live with new community science podcast
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center launched a new podcast Tuesday to connect Santa Cruz County’s scientists, problem-solvers and community members. While the new show spotlights local environmental success stories, the studio itself offers an inclusive space for anyone in the community to record and share their message, conservation-focused or not.
Scientists build a “periodic table” for AI
Choosing the right method for multimodal AI—systems that combine text, images, and more—has long been trial and error. Emory physicists created a unifying mathematical framework that shows many AI techniques rely on the same core idea: compress data while preserving what’s most predictive. Their “control knob” approach helps researchers design better algorithms, use less data, and avoid wasted computing power. The team believes it could pave the way for more accurate, efficient, and environmentally friendly AI.
Poking a nanostring: Scientists uncover energy cascades in tiny resonators
Scientists at TU Delft have designed a nanostring that, when poked, doesn't lose its energy to the environment immediately. Instead, the energy leaks out within the string, triggering a cascade of distinct ...
Program connects Latino, Black communities with winter sports
Organizers say SoulSlide offers a chance to learn winter sports at a more affordable price in a relaxed environment.
Stout turns local flooding issue into science lesson
Stout Middle School, in collaboration with a team from the University of Michigan, has turned a local environmental issue into a set of lessons for sixth grade science students. Students in Ms....
EMCBC Leaders Highlight Cleanup Progress, Small Business Opportunities
Federal team members from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Environmental Management Consolidated Business Center briefed attendees at the recent Kentucky Business Opportunities Exchange on cleanup progress at EMCBC-managed and supported sites and the center’s critical capabilities to support sites to closure. March 3, 2026
Pollution and mental health: current scientific evidence
This briefing discusses the evidence that is currently available on the associations between environmental pollution and mental health. It is based on a review of the scientific literature, and it supports the zero pollution action plan (ZPAP) and the European Union’s (EU’s) Eighth Environment Action Programme (8 th EAP). Related content can be found here: Climate change impacts on mental health in Europe ; Impact of air pollution on mental health (signal) .
Second unvaccinated Broomfield High School student contracts measles, Colorado health officials say
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and Adams County Health Department confirmed a new case of measles on Monday and are warning Broomfield and Westminster residents about possible exposure.
Health and Health Care Experiences of Immigrant Parents and Their Children During the Second Trump Term
This brief provides data from the 2025 KFF/New York Times Survey of Immigrants on the health and health care experiences of immigrant parents and their children in the U.S. amid the current policy environment.
Can a smartphone tutorial improve environmental health literacy?
People are interested in understanding how they can reduce chemical exposure. A new tutorial researchers developed can help.
St. Pete vintage store sees uptick in business amid economic uncertainty
Marina Williams, owner of ARTpool Gallery Boutique and Record Store, said the increase is because of fashion trends, environment and the economy.
Otsego Story Project website launches to capture area health concerns
The launch of a website focused on collecting Otsego area health stories amid concerns of long-term environmental pollution kicked off with an emotional start Friday night.
'Frankenstein' wins big at the Art Directors Guild Awards
The guild said the ceremony honored the artists who design the “environments where stories come to life.”
'Frankenstein' wins big at the Art Directors Guild Awards
The guild said the ceremony honored the artists who design the “environments where stories come to life.”
Wenatchee entrepreneur turns junk removal into growing NCW business
Springtime often inspires people to clean out garages and sheds and restore their homes’ environments. Hauling unwanted items, or “junk,” is one way to achieve that.
Scientists discover microbe that breaks a fundamental rule of the genetic code
Scientists at UC Berkeley have discovered a microbe that bends one of biology’s most sacred rules. Instead of treating a specific three-letter DNA code as a clear “stop” signal, this methane-producing archaeon sometimes reads it as a green light—adding an unusual amino acid and continuing to build the protein. The result is a kind of genetic coin flip: two different proteins can emerge from the same code, influenced partly by environmental conditions.
Former EPA Staff Detail Expanding Pollution Risks Under Trump
The Trump administration’s relentless rollback of public health and environmental protections has allowed widespread toxic exposures to flourish, warn experts who helped implement safeguards now under assault.
Colorado health officials warn of measles exposure at locations in several Denver-area cities
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is warning the public after a resident who visited locations in Broomfield, Lafayette, Louisville and Westminster was confirmed to have measles.
What's that new downtown Salem business on State and Commercial?
A new environmentally-friendly salon at the Nishioka building is looking to create community in downtown Salem.
GW Research Associate Selected for Digital Science Communication Fellowship | GW Today | The George Washington University
Aline Maybank will help expand public understanding of environmental health through her work.
From Lab Notes to Storybooks: Hofstra Alumna Blends Science and Creativity
Carissa Kissoon, BA, ’23; MS, ’24, has shown that science and storytelling can naturally complement each other. A Hofstra University alumna who earned both her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Biology, Kissoon has built a career that bridges environmental science, education, and creativi
Santiago de Chile Declaration launched to advance clean air and environmental justice in Latin America
The Santiago de Chile Declaration calls for urgent, coordinated action to reduce air pollution and advance environmental justice across Latin America and the Caribbean. Launched with support from World Health Organization and Pan American Health Organization, the Declaration frames clean air as a human right and sets out concrete regional and national priorities to protect public health—especially for vulnerable communities.
The Ultimate Guide to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Sealed
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are coming to a Magic store near you, and they bring a whole new Limited environment with them. This Day 0 guide will give you everything you need for lean, green success at your local Prerelease.
The Trump EPA’s Endangerment Finding Repeal: Wrong on Statute, Deceptive on Science, Reckless on Impacts
On February 12, the Trump Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized its repeal of the Endangerment Finding, which establishes EPA’s statutory obligation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Alongside, EPA also repealed the associated vehicle greenhouse gas emissions standards. This action
‘Open for business’ or ‘body count?’ Bill would curb environmental, health protections
Kentucky regulators could not issue regulations to protect health and the environment until people are being harmed under a bill that moved from committee.
Samsung Unveils All New Galaxy Buds4 Series With Ultimate Sound
Samsung audio innovation delivers original sound as intended and intelligent adaptive controls for every environment
Best Sole Trader Accounting Software (2026): Sage Awarded for Simplicity and Compliance in the UK by Better Business Advice
Sage has been recognised by Better Business Advice for its accounting software designed for UK sole traders, highlighting its role in helping individuals manage bookkeeping, meet HMRC requirements, and maintain accurate financial records in a changing regulatory environment.