A Precautionary Tale
West Germany’s “do no harm” approach to environmental protection—which became known as the precautionary principle—was revolutionary in its time.
Ecosystems and Extreme Weather Events
Cyclones, droughts, and other severe climate events produce a variety of ecological responses, some of them irreversible.
Reforestation: It’s A Trade-Off
While reforestation may help address the climate crisis, implementation requires long-term flexibility, careful listening, and an ability to compromise.
How Much Does It Cost to Reduce Carbon Emissions?
Analyses including both static and dynamic costs can help us make better decisions while developing technologies to address climate change.
Improving Communications Around Climate Change
How can scientists better explain the potential hazards of sea-level rise to historic coastal communities?
The Imperiled Inland Sea
Twenty years ago, scholar W. D. Williams predicted the loss of salt lakes around the world.
Can We Cool Warming Cities?
The new, hotter normal requires urban planners and city governments to consider heat hazards when creating climate action plans.
Young People and Eco-Anxiety
As problems caused by climate change become more acute, so too does the eco-anxiety of the world's youth.
Algae: The Food of the Future of the Past
In the years following World War II, American and European food scientists hoped to feed the world with common pond scum supplemented with plastics.
Sustainability in One of the Smallest Countries
Surrounded by rising seas, island nations face particular challenges in terms of growth. How can they best assess the sustainability of future development?