EarthTalk®
by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss
Dear EarthTalk: How can we get better at predicting when and where wildfires will occur so we can adequately mitigate their impact? -- R.K., Tarrytown, NY
In recent years, the wildfires incidents have intensified, driven by factors including climate change, land use patterns and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. As we grapple with the growing risk, efforts to enhance predictive capabilities and mitigate the impact of wildfires have become paramount.
Predicting when and where wildfires will occur demands a sophisticated approach that integrates advanced technology with comprehensive data analysis. Indeed, researchers are leveraging cutting-edge satellite imagery and machine learning algorithms to enhance wildfire prediction models. These technologies allow experts to analyze historical fire data, vegetation patterns, weather trends and terrains in unprecedented detail. By identifying high-risk areas and predicting potential fire behavior, scientists can provide early warnings to at-risk communities and allocate firefighting resources more effectively.
Increased wildfires have also spurred new mitigation strategies. The Wilderness Society stresses three key approaches to reduce wildfire impacts: proactive forest management (controlled burns and selective thinning of vegetation, making forests less susceptible to catastrophic fires), community preparedness (educating residents about fire safety, setting evacuation plans and increasing firefighting infrastructure), and policy reforms (stricter building codes and incentivized sustainable land management practice).
The federal government is also ramping up initiatives. One is the Technology to Reduce the Impact of Wildfires (TRIW) initiative, where federal agencies work together to develop innovative tools like fire-resistant materials, advanced firefighting equipment and real-time communication systems. This not only enhance firefighter safety but also improve response times and coordination during wildfire events.
Private industry is also getting in on the act. One company, Blue Sky Analytics, uses a network of sensors with AI and machine learning to beef up our ability to predict and prevent fires. Drones with infrared cameras can detect hotspots and monitor fire progression in real-time, providing critical data. Sensors deployed across vulnerable landscapes continuously collect data, feeding into models that forecast fire behavior based on current conditions. Such advancements enable authorities to issue timely alerts and deploy resources where they are most needed.
Combining these public and private initiatives with the power of citizen science can make all the difference as to whether fire mitigation succeeds or fails. By integrating field observations with scientific data, experts gain a more comprehensive understanding of wildfire dynamics and its impacts.
CONTACTS: Wilderness Society, www.wilderness.org/articles/blog/3-reasons-wildfires-are-getting-more-dangerous-and-3-ways-make-things-better.
Dear EarthTalk: Why is sea level rising more in some regions—like the U.S. Southeast—than others? Is there a way to reduce sea level rise in certain specific locales? – C.T, Tampa, FL
Sea level rise is a pressing global issue, exacerbated by climate change. And its impacts are not uniform across the globe; some regions experience more significant increases than others. Notably, the U.S. Southeast has seen higher rates compared to other areas. Understanding the factors behind these regional differences is crucial for developing targeted strategies to mitigate and adapt to these changes.
One major factor contributing to regional variations in sea level rise is thermal expansion. As ocean water warms, it expands, leading to higher sea levels. However, this expansion does not occur evenly across the globe due to differences in ocean temperatures and circulation patterns. Warm currents can cause more significant sea level rise in certain areas by bringing heat from one region to another. The melting of ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica contribute to global sea level rise, but its impact is not evenly distributed. Indeed, the gravitational pull from large ice masses affects sea levels regionally. As ice sheets melt, the gravitational attraction decreases, causing water to move away from these areas and leading to higher sea levels elsewhere. This redistribution of water can result in significant regional differences.
Engineering solutions like seawalls, levees and other physical barriers can provide immediate protection against rising sea levels. These are designed to prevent flooding and protect infrastructure. However, they also present challenges, including high costs and potential ecological impacts. Strategic urban planning and land use can significantly mitigate the impacts of sea level rise. Sustainable development practices, including equitably relocating people, structures and infrastructure away from vulnerable coastal areas—as well as the wholesale redesign of coastal communities—are essential. These strategies can help reduce vulnerability and enhance resilience. For example, some coastal cities are redesigning urban spaces to allow for natural water flow and creating buffer zones to absorb floodwaters.
Effective policies at local, state and federal levels are crucial for addressing sea level rise. Governments can implement regulations that promote sustainable practices, fund infrastructure projects and support community adaptation efforts. To effectively combat sea level rise, it is essential for individuals to engage with local governments and advocate for policy changes. By supporting research and development, communities can better prepare for the impacts of rising seas.
CONTACTS: Are sea levels rising the same all over the world, as if we're filling a giant bathtub?, https://sealevel.nasa.gov/faq/9/are-sea-levels-rising-the-same-all-over-the-world-as-if-were-filling-a-giant-bathtub/; Sea Level 101, Part Two: All Sea Level is ‘Local’, https://science.nasa.gov/earth/climate-change/sea-level-101-part-two-all-sea-level-is-local/; A Surge In Sea Level Rise Threatens Southern States, https://cleantechnica.com/2024/05/08/a-surge-in-sea-level-rise-threatens-southern-states/.
Dear EarthTalk: What’s new in the greening of air travel and the aviation? – D.M. Norwalk, CT
Air travel is pretty environmentally unfriendly. In 2018, civil aviation emissions constituted 2.5 percent of global human carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Released at high altitudes, these emissions impact the climate two to four times more than ground-level emissions. Consequently, civil aviation accounts for about 3.5 percent of human-induced global warming. Considering that air travel is mostly a leisure activity, not a necessity, this makes it one of the most environmentally harmful leisure activities. Despite calls to reduce air travel, flights are increasing upwards of three percent per year.
Instead of reducing flights, many companies and aviation organizations are promising net-zero aviation in the coming decades. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) aims for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050 through eliminating emissions at the source. Central to this plan is a switch from kerosene to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which is expected to reduce 65 percent of emissions.
SAF is made from organic waste or synthesized by combining hydrogen with captured CO2. Tests on over 200,000 flights indicate that SAF can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80 percent. The first flight using 100 percent SAF was Virgin Atlantic’s flight between London and New York in November 2023. According to Virgin it “demonstrate[d] the capability of SAF as a safe drop-in replacement for fossil-derived jet fuel, compatible with today’s engines, airframes and fuel infrastructure.”
Electric planes are another promising development. Some 200 companies are working on electric aircraft, which offer a 100 percent emission reduction and no climate impact during flights. However, current battery technology limits electric planes to a range of 531 to 621 miles. Large and long-haul electric passenger jets are expected to become viable only around 2040. Hydrogen-powered planes are also emerging. Instead of carbon emissions, these planes emit water vapor during flights. Companies like Airbus and Rolls Royce are developing hydrogen-fueled aircraft, ready for use in 2035. Hydrogen requires significant space, necessitating changes to aircraft design and ground infrastructure.
Green aviation is in its early stages, with no single solution available. For now, people can reduce their travel emissions by opting for cars, buses or trains. Choosing direct flights and fully booked planes also helps. Platforms like Skyscanner offer "greener" travel options by analyzing flight and environmental data. According to the International Council on Clean Transportation, the emissions difference between the most and least efficient airlines can be up to 26 percent.
CONTACTS: Atmosfair (carbon offset) https://www.atmosfair.de/en/offset/flight/; IATA Net Zero roadmaps https://www.iata.org/contentassets/8d19e716636a47c184e7221c77563c93/executive-summary---net-zero-roadmaps.pdf; Skyscanner https://www.skyscanner.net/.
Dear EarthTalk: Where does J.D. Vance, Trump’s V.P. pick, stand on climate and environmental issues? -- Robert O., Bowie, MD
As the political climate intensifies, understanding the environmental stance of key political figures like Vance, author of “Hillbilly Elegy” and an Ohio Republican Senator, becomes crucial. His position on environmental issues and climate change could significantly influence future policies and regulations.
Vance’s public statements indicate a distrust of climate science and a preference for policies that favor economic growth over environmental protection. He often criticizes what he sees as environmental regulation overreach, saying it stifles economic opportunities, particularly in traditional energy sectors.
Initially, Vance was openly skeptical about climate change. However, his stance has intensified over time, particularly as he has received significant financial contributions from the oil industry. Recently, he has made statements acknowledging the reality of climate change, but he remains critical of aggressive climate policies, preferring more moderate approaches. He argues that fossil fuels are essential for economic growth, and has criticized renewable energies, suggesting they are unreliable and economically unviable. His legislative actions reflect this stance, as he has supported bills that favor the expansion of oil and gas drilling and opposed measures that would significantly invest in renewable energy.
Vance opposes significant environmental regulations, viewing them as impediments to economic progress. He has been a vocal advocate for deregulation, particularly in sectors related to traditional energy production. His support for deregulation efforts is evident in his legislative record, where he has backed initiatives aimed at rolling back environmental protections established in previous administrations.
Vance’s financial portfolio reveals investments in both traditional and green energies, creating a complex picture of his financial interests. This strategy could suggest a pragmatic approach to energy policy, but raises questions about potential conflicts of interest. Critics say his financial interests may unduly influence his political stance; especially given the large contributions he’s received from the oil industry.
Environmental advocacy groups have been critical of Vance's stances on climate and environment. Public opinion on Vance's environmental stance is mixed, with some voters supporting his pro-economic growth agenda while others are wary of his skepticism toward climate change and environmental regulations.
As Vice President, J.D. Vance's stance on environmental and climate issues could have substantial implications for future legislation.
CONTACTS: How J.D. Vance stacks up on energy, environment issues, https://www.eenews.net/articles/how-j-d-vance-stacks-up-on-energy-environment-issues.
Dear EarthTalk: What’s the most effective way to remove pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables that I buy at the supermarket? -- R.L.J., Kansas City, KS
For many decades now, pesticides have been a vital tool for farmers to ensure that their harvests aren’t overgrown by weeds or eaten by pests. As a result, pesticides remain prevalent today, in spite of the many health risks that pesticide residues still pose to people consuming fruits and vegetables. It’s worth noting that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has placed limits on the amount of pesticide residue found on produce—called “tolerances”—to ensure that people will most likely not be impacted by harmful “persistent organic pollutants” (POPs) such as glyphosate and atrazine. However, it’s still important to make individual efforts to clean produce to further protect your personal health and safety.
A recent report from the American Chemical Society analyzed data provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and found that 20 percent of 59 different produce categories posed significant health risks to consumers despite current pesticide limits. The researchers developed new methods for finding and removing traces of pesticides from produce, as they found that traditional methods of cleaning produce were insufficient. Most notably, the report posits that pesticides go beyond the produce’s surface to leach into the food, meaning that washing may not be as effective. Further research is needed to determine the full risks and implications of current pesticide limits. Regardless, all produce should be cleaned thoroughly before consumption.
There are varied opinions on the best methods for removing pesticide residues from produce, and no method is 100 percent effective. Rinsing produce is somewhat helpful for cleaning off dirt and germs, but soaking their fruits and vegetables in warm vinegar or salt solutions may be better; however, some sources claim that exposure to these solutions may allow chemicals to form more complex, equally dangerous chemical compounds, so always follow soaking with thorough rinsing. Finally, peeling or boiling produce can be highly effective in removing residues, though you will suffer a loss of nutrients.
Of course, the only way to significantly reduce your exposure to food-borne synthetic chemicals is by buying organic, as organic foods are not grown with the assistance of hazardous pesticides. You might have to pay a little more, but isn’t your health and peace of mind worth it?
CONTACTS: National Pesticide Information Center’s Advice For Removing Pesticide Residue, http://npic.orst.edu/faq/fruitwash.html; Recent Scientific Report Finds That Recommended Residue Limits Still Too High, https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/08/clean-fruit-vegetables-pesticides; How To Remove Pesticide Residues From Your Produce, https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/how-to-series-removing-pesticide-residue.
Dear EarthTalk: Why are environmental advocates so scared of Trump getting elected to a second term as President? -- B.N., Philadelphia, PA
Since Joe Biden was elected president in 2021, his administration has made effective, albeit halting progress on combating climate change and giving the nation’s renewable energy industry the financial boost it needs to permanently establish its presence in America. He re-entered the Paris Climate Agreement, passed the most expensive climate legislation in U.S. history via the Inflation Reduction Act, and took hundreds of other positive environmental actions throughout his term as president.
Biden’s eco- efforts are far from perfect—the U.S. produced record levels of oil during his presidency, due to compromises he had to make to get his legislation passed—he has still achieved net positive gains for our environment. Based on what Trump has said about his plans for climate, and his troubling history of undoing environmental progress, the fear is that a second Trump presidency would reverse the progress made by Biden and demolish chances of reversing the worst effects of climate change before it’s too late.
Earlier in 2024, the right-wing Heritage Foundation released Project 2025, which is a plan that outlines what Donald Trump’s team may aim to achieve during a second Trump term. In addition to abolishing the education department and limiting judicial power, Project 2025 aims to “reclaim” America’s dominance in the oil and gas industries, limit the power of environmental agencies and possibly repeal Biden’s most powerful climate legislation. These goals are certainly in line with Trump’s environmental rhetoric. At the beginning of his 2016 presidency, Trump rolled back dozens of environmental regulations on climate and conservation and pushed for increased oil and gas production. Trump has continued to deny the impacts of climate change and plans to loosen regulations placed on the gas and oil industry once again.
It's unlikely Trump would fully succeed in repealing all the climate legislation passed by Biden, but his push for increased carbon emissions would come at a dire moment in the ongoing crisis. The U.S. has a major role to play in achieving the Paris climate accord’s goal of keeping global temperatures from rising by 1.5 degrees Celsius before 2030. If emissions are not properly reduced, global temperatures and sea levels will continue to rise, leaving large areas of land uninhabitable and wiping out countless wildlife species and habitats. The actions taken in the next four years will have a monumental impact on the health of our planet, but a Carbon Brief report estimates that a second Trump presidency would add four billion tons of climate-warming gases to our atmosphere by 2030. A second Trump term would certainly take us radically in the wrong direction.
CONTACTS: Environmental Ramifications of Another Trump Presidency, www.npr.org/2024/06/25/nx-s1-5006573/trump-election-2024-climate-change-fossil-fuels; Project 2025’s Environmental Plans, thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4769252-project-2025-climate-change-energy-environment/
Dear EarthTalk: Are there any grasses for lawns and paths that don't need mowing or that need very little mowing attention? -- Johanna R, Northampton, MA
Most of the grass across the U.S. is a species known as Kentucky Bluegrass, which might not be the best choice where the environment is a concern. While it may have a soothing soft texture and vibrant color, it requires a decent amount of effort to maintain including extensive mowing year-round. Luckily, there are a variety of other options that will keep lawns looking nice and take less effort. Additionally, there has been a recent surge in grass alternative lawns as they require significantly less maintenance.
Grass species grow in two primary categories; warm season thrivers and cool season thrivers (Kentucky Bluegrass is the latter). Some of the warm season grasses that provide a greener alternative to Kentucky Bluegrass include Bermudagrass and Buffalo grass. Bermudagrass grows deep, complex root systems, helping to make it durable in high heat, humidity and drought conditions. It does not need mowing outside of temperatures 65 degrees and above but may need mowing twice a week in peak growing season. Meanwhile, buffalo grass needs sun to grow but is contained in its growth. It will grow in thick clumps reaching 8 inches tall and does not require mowing. If allowed to mature, buffalo grass will flower and attract native wildlife. If the grower aims for a manicured look, this grass can be mowed intermittently.
Greener low maintenance cool season grasses include tall fescue and sheep fescue. Tall fescue is a thin, naturally tall grass that requires almost no maintenance besides mowing in the growing season. Outside of this season, the grass needs no mowing. Sheep fescue is similar, though slower growing. The dense root system protects the area from invasive weeds and requires minimal mowing in the warmer months.
Alternatives to grass lawns include clover lawns, moss lawns or eco-lawns which are a combination of two or more alternatives. Clover lawns are the most popular grass alternative lawns. They can be planted over grass lawns for an easy installation process and are low growing meaning little to no mowing! Clover lawns, attract pollinators, foster healthy biodiversity, and are a natural weed killer—and they do not require much water. Experts have ranges of mowing recommendations from never to once a month. Mazus is similar to clover as it grows very close to the ground, does not need mowing beyond landscaping purposes, and has some resilience to foot traffic.
CONTACTS: All You Need to Know About Bermudagrass, pennington.com/all-products/grass-seed/resources/all-you-need-to-know-about-bermudagrass/; Buffalo Grass: A Low-Maintenance Lawn Option, thespruce.com/buffalo-grass-7105718; All You Need to Know About tall fescue, pennington.com/all-products/grass-seed/resources/all-you-need-to-know-about-tall-fescue;
Planting and maintaining a fine fescue lawn, extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/planting-and-maintaining-fine-fescue-lawn.
Dear EarthTalk: What are some “nature-based solutions” to fight climate change? -- J. M, via email
As we come to terms with the growing effects of climate change, many are turning to so-called nature-based solutions, which are holistic approaches that promote biodiversity and ecosystem preservation. Nature-based solutions harness natural processes to address problems rooted in climate change. Countries such as Africa, the Philippines and Brazil are at the forefront of using nature-based solutions.
One example of a nature-based solution is reforestation, the replanting of native trees in areas subject to deforestation. Many initiatives are underway to restore regions of the world negatively affected by logging, burning and land use change. For example, Africa’s Great Green Wall project aims to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land across 20 countries. This is already dramatically reducing atmospheric carbon in the region while providing a livelihood for local communities.
Mangroves are a lesser-known climate champion, essential for both carbon storage and coastal protection. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is spearheading an extensive mangrove restoration program in the Philippines where over 50 percent of mangrove habitats have been lost. By regrowing the mangroves that line the islands, they are building a defense against rising sea levels.
Urban greening is perhaps one of the most easily accessible nature-based solutions and is most advantageous in areas with little to no nature already present. An example of this is New York City’s High Line, a 1.5-mile long track that was previously abandoned before it was transformed by Friends of the Highline who now use it as a community space to grow native plants, host events and display local art. Urban greening is highly effective, easy, and beneficial to communities.
Agroforestry integrates trees and native brush into farms to mimic natural environments. In Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, agroforestry has been instrumental in transforming disrupted land into systems that support biodiversity without costing communities who rely on farms. Such projects promote soil health, improve water retention and support the spread of nutrients. Planting trees around farmland or introducing wildflower seeds at the edge of a property can be instrumental in promoting ecosystem health.
Nature-based solutions may often be presented as large-scale initiatives, but such solutions are still vital and more accessible in a smaller context. Consider joining an ongoing project in your area, or starting one yourself, taking inspiration from other established programs around the world.
CONTACTS: The role of agroforestry in restoring Brazil's Atlantic Forest: Opportunities and challenges for smallholder farmers, https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/pan3.10297; Mangroves as a solution to the climate crisis, https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/mangroves-as-a-solution-to-the-climate-crisis; The High Line, https://www.thehighline.org.
Dear EarthTalk: What are some “nature-based solutions” to fight climate change? -- J. M, via email
As we come to terms with the growing effects of climate change, many are turning to so-called nature-based solutions, which are holistic approaches that promote biodiversity and ecosystem preservation. Nature-based solutions harness natural processes to address problems rooted in climate change. Countries such as Africa, the Philippines and Brazil are at the forefront of using nature-based solutions.
One example of a nature-based solution is reforestation, the replanting of native trees in areas subject to deforestation. Many initiatives are underway to restore regions of the world negatively affected by logging, burning and land use change. For example, Africa’s Great Green Wall project aims to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land across 20 countries. This is already dramatically reducing atmospheric carbon in the region while providing a livelihood for local communities.
Mangroves are a lesser-known climate champion, essential for both carbon storage and coastal protection. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is spearheading an extensive mangrove restoration program in the Philippines where over 50 percent of mangrove habitats have been lost. By regrowing the mangroves that line the islands, they are building a defense against rising sea levels.
Urban greening is perhaps one of the most easily accessible nature-based solutions and is most advantageous in areas with little to no nature already present. An example of this is New York City’s High Line, a 1.5-mile long track that was previously abandoned before it was transformed by Friends of the Highline who now use it as a community space to grow native plants, host events and display local art. Urban greening is highly effective, easy, and beneficial to communities.
Agroforestry integrates trees and native brush into farms to mimic natural environments. In Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, agroforestry has been instrumental in transforming disrupted land into systems that support biodiversity without costing communities who rely on farms. Such projects promote soil health, improve water retention and support the spread of nutrients. Planting trees around farmland or introducing wildflower seeds at the edge of a property can be instrumental in promoting ecosystem health.
Nature-based solutions may often be presented as large-scale initiatives, but such solutions are still vital and more accessible in a smaller context. Consider joining an ongoing project in your area, or starting one yourself, taking inspiration from other established programs around the world.
CONTACTS: The role of agroforestry in restoring Brazil's Atlantic Forest: Opportunities and challenges for smallholder farmers, https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/pan3.10297; Mangroves as a solution to the climate crisis, https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/mangroves-as-a-solution-to-the-climate-crisis; The High Line, https://www.thehighline.org.
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org
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