Soil Erosion and Crop Productivity (13/12/07)
European researchers have recently assessed the effects of soil erosion on agricultural
productivity. They found that soil erosion has little impact on crop productivity. Nevertheless,
they highlight that other parameters such as ecological and social impacts should be taken
into account when assessing soil erosion impacts.
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Taxes or Quotas: what is more Efficient to mitigate GHG Emissions? (31/10/07)
Italian researchers have recently evaluated the cost-effectiveness of measures to mitigate
greenhouse gas emissions in the European agro-forestry sector. From a technical
viewpoint, the abatement of methane emissions appeared more cost efficient than carbon
sequestration or biofuel production. As for policy measures, taxes seem to lead to cheaper
solutions than quotas.
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Soil Management: Preserving a Natural Resource with Multiple Functions (25/10/07)
Soil fulfils numerous functions and provides several services for humans. Research has shown that sustainable management of this resource is a necessity for preserving food security and water resources, producing biofuels and disposing of waste. This reinforces the need for sustainable agriculture in order to optimise the use of natural resources.
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Factors influencing Adaptive Capacity of European Farmers to Climate Change (20/09/07)
Dutch researchers have recently analysed farm performance in Europe under different climatic and management conditions in order to improve understanding of the adaptive capacity of farms. Farm characteristics such as farm size, intensity and land use are found to be good indicators of adaptive capacity as they influence climate impacts on crop yields and farmers? income.
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Organic Farming restores Biodiversity (05/07/07)
A Finnish researcher has investigated to what extent organic farming can restore
biodiversity losses caused by intensive land uses in the past. The results of his study of 131
fields in Finland show that, even for short periods, organic cropping allows some restoration
of weed populations, which are found in some cases at a higher frequency and density than
before the intensive use of these lands. Overall, this practice could be useful for sustainable
agriculture.
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Transportation of Pesticides from Rural to Urban Areas (16/05/07)
French researchers have recently investigated to what extent pesticides are detected in the
atmosphere and their capacity to be transported over long distances. Their experiments
show that pesticides can enter the atmosphere and thus be transported over more than 10
km and can thus be found in urban areas. This could, in turn, damage human health.
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The Environmental Risks of GMOs (10/05/07)
By including herbicides and pest-resistant genes in the gene pool of crops, biotechnology can be a powerful method of significantly increasing the production yield of crops. While transgenic crops such as maize and soybean are already authorised in Europe, genetically modified sunflowers are not. Researchers have recently reviewed the existing literature regarding the potential benefits and environmental damages that such transgenic sunflowers could generate. They show that the pollination of wild sunflowers could be the major impact of the release of transgenic plants and that appropriate control should be involved to prevent it.
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How assessing Farm Sustainability could help Decision-Making (10/05/07)
Belgian researchers have recently developed a methodology to measure the sustainable efficiency of small farms in the Flemish dairy sector. The results show that laggards in sustainability efficiency can be identified. The authors suggest that they could be the target of policies to improve sustainability in the farming sector. Overall, this tool could serve as a useful basis in decision-making.
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Investigating Soil Loss due to Crop Harvesting (26/04/07)
Most soil erosion research focuses on soil loss caused by water, wind or tillage. However,
significant amounts of soil could be lost from arable land during the harvesting of crops such
as potatoes, sugar beet and chicory roots. In a recent study, a Belgian team of scientists
investigated the variability of soil loss due to crop harvesting (SLCH) with various
parameters such as harvesting techniques, soil and crop characteristics and agro-ecological
environment. Although there are no systematic differences in SLCH between crop types, the
results suggest that soil moisture content at harvesting time is, besides harvesting
technique, a key parameter affecting SLCH.
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Assessing the Benefits of Risk-Reduction Measures (26/04/07)
A team of researchers has recently surveyed Italian urban dwellers to assess how much
they are willing to pay to reduce the risk of dying from air pollution associated diseases.
They also assessed how respondents monetise the loss of a life within society. In Italy, the
survey reveals that the benefits associated with reducing the level of particulate matter in
the air by near 60% could represent between 2,600 and 5,500 million Euros per year.
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Mitigating Water Runoff Impacts with Alternative Agricultural Practice (15/03/07)
In vegetable production, it is common practice to cover soils with plastic mulch. With this
practice, up to 75% of soils become impervious. This increases the magnitude of water
runoff during storms and associated impacts such as erosion or the off-site transport of
pesticides. In a recent American study, researchers investigated the benefits of planting
rye in the furrows between the beds covered by plastic mulch. Their results show that
vegetative furrows dramatically reduce the negative aspects of the conventional
management practice.
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The Environmental Balance Sheet of Bioenergy Systems (08/03/07)
In response to the increased need for renewable energies, growing biomass to serve as
input into energy generating processes is of significant interest. However, these so called
bioenergy systems are believed to deplete soil carbon stocks. An international team of
scientists have recently proven that even if carbon loss is observed, it only occurs under
specific conditions and is negligible compared to the benefits accrued from mitigating
greenhouse gases by avoiding fossil fuel emissions. This confirms the environmental
benefits of alternative energy producing systems based on biomass.
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Improving Efficiency of Agri-Environment Schemes through better Design (22/02/07)
British researchers have recently investigated the correlations between abundance of
farmland birds and key landscape attributes (hedge heights, trees) which are commonly
used in the design of biodiversity conservation plans such as European agri-environment
schemes. As these correlations tend to vary on a regional basis, the authors suggest that
conservation programmes could protect widespread species more efficiently if they were
designed and applied on a regional scale rather than uniformly on a national scale.
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Spatial Fertiliser Management enhances the Efficiency of Policies (15/02/07)
An international team of researchers has investigated the potential benefits of taking
spatial considerations into account when designing policies to manage the use of
fertilisers containing nitrogen. They have shown that nitrogen management based on the
spatial variation of soil characteristics can reduce the use of nitrogen fertilisers by up to
25% without decreasing production yields, in comparison with uniform management.
These findings highlight the importance of considering geographic specificities in the
design of policies intended to control nitrate concentration in soils and groundwater.
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How Agricultural Practices influence Plant Distribution (08/02/07)
An European team of researchers has recently analysed the effects of agricultural practices
on the abundance and diversity of various species of weeds. The results of their
investigation on German wheat fields show that there are 1.5 more weed species and 1.1
more insect pollinated plants in organic farming than in conventional farming. These
findings highlight the influence of land-use patterns on the structure of fauna and flora
communities in cultivated areas.
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Water Savings and Agricultural Sustainability - are they compatible? (01/02/07)
Italian researchers have recently studied the effects of different agricultural and water
pricing scenarios on the sustainability of irrigated farming systems. They have shown that
there is a trade-off between reducing environmental impacts and maintaining agricultural
sustainability. This highlights the difficulty of regulating both environmental and
economical sides simultaneously and suggests policies should be coordinated better.
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Organic Farming: Good Practice for Soil Quality Preservation (25/01/07)
Swiss researchers have recently published a 21-year study of the effects of farming on
soil quality. Focussing on the level of farmyard manure and chemical use, they have
shown that organic farming is the best agricultural practice for sustainable land
management, in particular through the enhancement of the microbial activity in the soil
leading to increased mineral exchange between plants and soil.
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The 2003 CAP Reform - eliminating Environmentally Harmful Subsidies (18/01/07)
Austrian researchers have recently estimated the environmental consequences of the
2003 Common Agricultural Policy reform. The results suggest that the reform is likely to
make production less intensive and reduce the use of potentially harmful agricultural
inputs. Major environmental benefits are primarily the consequence of the expected
changes in land-uses as well as in management and livestock intensities.
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Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in European Dairy Farming (11/01/07)
Recently, European researchers have analysed the potential of different options for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from dairy production in Europe. The most cost-efficient measures are those that simultaneously reduce emissions of several greenhouse gases from the whole production chain, such as biogas production. The researchers identified considerable possibilities for emissions reduction in the dairy farming industry.
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Current and Former Agricultural Uses influence Natural Land Restoration (11/01/07)
Austrian and Italian scientists have recently investigated the natural reforestation mechanisms in four regions of the Eastern Alps, where agricultural land-use has declined by up to 67% in the past 150 years. They have shown that the previous and current uses of these formerly cultivated lands are major factors influencing natural reforestation. The results of the study could be useful when assessing possible environmental impacts of agricultural policies.
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New insights into the Adaptation of Ecosystems to Toxic Substances (21/12/06)
American scientists have observed that some plants are able to accumulate the toxic element selenium at unusually high levels. They have shown that this accumulation ability, and the associated selenium tolerance, can enable selenium to move up the food chain. The results provide new insights into biological adaptation to toxic substances that may have interesting agricultural and medical applications.
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How to reduce the Impact of Ammonia Pollution? (14/12/06)
British researchers have recently assessed the efficiency of different land use planning methods in protecting sensitive areas and species from atmospheric ammonia pollution. Measures such as the establishment of tree belts around nature reserves are shown to be a complementary approach to technical abatement measures. The authors conclude that considering the potential nitrogen pollution effects should be part of the planning process for new intensive agricultural developments.
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Bioenergy: an Essential Resource in Future Energy Portfolios (14/12/06)
A recent review of bioenergy highlights the role of energy produced from wood, crops and biomass residues in contributing to future reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Results suggest that bioenergy could make significant contributions to world energy consumption in 2050, with an increasing share of bioenergy coming from energy crops. Energy use from biomass could also fill up to 20% of the gap between projected greenhouse gas emissions and those required for a stabilisation of atmospheric CO 2 concentrations at a targeted 550 parts per million, the threshold above which global warming may have serious consequences.
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The Role of Policy in Facilitating Adaptation to Climate Change (09/11/06)
European researchers have recently analysed the vulnerability of agricultural land use and species to climate change. The results suggest that the impacts of climate change in the agricultural sector and the consequent adaptation could have significant effects on the ability of species to adapt to climate change. It is therefore important to assess the vulnerability of both agriculture and species if appropriate policy measures are to be implemented in response to climate change.
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article
Potential Environmental Benefits of Novel Agroforestry Systems (03/11/06)
European researchers have recently examined the potential environmental benefits of integrating trees and arable crops on the same land in different climatic conditions in Europe. The results show that the adoption of agroforestry systems can potentially lead to reduced soil erosion and nitrogen leaching, and increased carbon sequestration and landscape biodiversity.
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article
Modern Land Terracing Results in Highly Negative Landscape Impacts (26/10/06) Spanish researchers have recently analysed the environmental and landscape impacts of new terracing systems, which strongly rely on heavy earth moving machinery. The results suggest that this land transformation produces huge material displacements, thus resulting in the loss of the original soil profiles and in a rapid reshaping of the terrain. Modern land terracing methods, usually undertaken with minimal landscape planning, have been encouraged since 2000 by the introduction of the EU Council Regulation policy for restructuring vineyards. Download
article
Does Transgenic Maize affect Soil Bacteria? (05/10/06) European scientists have recently studied the possible effects of genetically modified plants on soil microbial communities. The results suggest that the presence of transgenic maize influences the abundance and diversity of the soil bacteria and also the way their ecosystems behave. This may have relevant implications due to the highly critical role that soil micro-organisms play in agro-ecosystems. Download
article Changes in Agricultural Policy Needed to Halt Loss of Farmland Birds (14/09/06) A recent study provides further evidence that confirms the negative impact of agricultural intensification on European farmland birds. The authors highlight the importance of agri-environmental schemes as the best available mechanism to reduce the decline in farmland biodiversity over large areas. Furthermore, they suggest that substantial changes to the European agricultural policy are needed if the 2010 targets to reduce or halt biodiversity loss are to be met. Download
article Wild Bees and the Flowers They Pollinate Are Declining in Europe (07/09/06) European researchers have recently provided, for the first time, evidence of a significant decline in wild bee diversity in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands over the past 25 years. The scientists also observed that the loss of this pollinator?s diversity is consistent with the loss of bee-pollinated plants. As many crops are directly dependant on insects for their pollination, the reported decline in the bee population may have severe implications for farming. Download
article New Insights about Future Crop Production under Climate Change (26/07/06) A new study concludes that the substantial increase in future crop productivity under rising carbon dioxide levels, predicted by earlier greenhouse and other enclosed test condition studies, may be much smaller in open-air fields. This positive effect was expected to offset the detrimental effects of rising temperatures and falling soil moisture under climate change. This work now suggests that this is unlikely. Scientists warn that global food supplies could be seriously affected without changes in production strategies. Download
article New Discovery May Help to Reduce the Use of Nitrogen Fertilizers (20/07/06) Recently, researchers have made a scientific discovery that could revolutionise world farming and food production. This discovery represents an important step towards transferring legume capacity to produce their own nitrogen to non-legume crops, which could reduce the global need for inorganic fertilizers. Download
article How to Achieve Efficient Conservation of Traditional Landscape (13/07/06) A recent German study has addressed current conservation problems in Europe?s agricultural countryside in terms of modern economics. The author concludes that in the long run subsidies would be untenable, and therefore, they should progressively be transformed into remunerations for ecological services including conservation. To this end, it will be necessary to change society?s perception of ecological products and conservation services. Download
article A New Policy Framework to Ensure Sustainable Biomass Production (06/07/06) A recent report by the European Environment Agency has assessed how much biomass could technically be available for energy production in Europe without increasing pressures on the environment. It concluded that Europe could produce sufficient biomass to meet its renewable energy target without harming the environment. However, this would require an appropriate policy framework. Download
article Integrating Environmental Concerns into EU Agricultural Policy (01/06/06) Environmental efforts pursued through the Common Agriculture Policy need to be better targeted geographically to maximise their effectiveness, according to a new report from the European Environment Agency. Download
article Cropland Management Changes Affect Climate Change (18/05/06) The sign and magnitude of possible impacts of past and future crop management practices on climate change have been recently analysed by a group of American scientists. Current trends in crop management such as increased irrigation and crop productivity and less tillage of the land may have a profound effect on climate at the local and global scale. Download
article New Approach to Solve
Agri-environmental Problems in Europe (11/05/06) A new
approach for the development of agri-environmental measures is
presented and exemplified by three study areas in Germany. This
approach, denoted AEMBAC, takes into account both the ecological and
socio-economic sustainability of the local agri-environmental
situation. The study shows that it can be an important tool for
analysing and solving the agri-environmental problems in
Europe. Download
article
Soil Erosion Mechanisms
and Threats (27/04/06) An American scientist has
recently reviewed the different drivers and the effects of soil
erosion. This literature survey highlights that soil erosion exerts
detrimental effects on food production as well as on the natural
environment, and calls for the development of effective conservation
methods. Download
article
Effects of Farm Size and
Organic Farming on Biodiversity (20/04/06) A team of
Swedish researchers has investigated how different field-size
depending management practices affect biodiversity, ecosystem
structure, and landscape diversity in agricultural ecosystems. More
than twice as many bird species and number of habitats were found on
the small farms compared to the large farms. Download
article
Organic Farming
Practices Reduce Nitrogen Pollution (06/04/06) A recent
study has compared the levels of water pollution due to nitrogen
resulting from organic, integrated, and conventional farming
practices. The results indicate that organic and integrated
fertilisation practices reduce nitrate pollution. Download
article
Future Projections of
Land Use in Europe (30/03/06) A European research team
has recently compared several possible climate and socio-economic
scenarios for the prediction of the evolution of land use in Europe.
Despite great variations according to the scenarios used, this study
predicts an increase in the level of European production and a
northward march of arable farming in Europe. Download
article
Brighter Side of
Genetically Modified Crops? (16/03/06) The debate about
the environmental impacts of genetically modified crops continues to
be highly controversial. While growing evidence highlight that
introduction of genetically modified crops could have negative
impact on the wildlife, a recent literature review suggests that
such crops could improve soil management techniques without
threatening biodiversity. Download
article
Phosphorus - Scarce
Resource and Pollutant (09/03/06) Australian researchers
have shown the usefulness of substance flux analysis as a tool for
supporting policy planning for conserving phosphorus reserves and,
at the same time, preventing it from being a pollutant. Download
article
Future of Bioenergy
Crops in Europe (09/03/06) European researchers have
assessed the potential distribution of bioenergy crops in Europe
under present and future climate. All models and scenarios suggest
that meeting the demand for bioenergy crop production in southern
Europe will be severely impaired by climate change and that efforts
must be made to adapt bioenergy crop production to the challenges of
climate change. Download
article
Organically Managed
Soils are Healthier (23/02/06) Dutch researchers
have compared the effects of organic and conventional management on
chemical and biological parameters of agricultural soils. Their
results demonstrate that organically managed soils present higher
biodiversity, lower levels of nitrates and soluble nitrogen, and
higher resilience to environmental disturbances. Download
article
Sustainable
Agriculture Increases Crop Yields (02/02/06) In
one of the largest analysis of sustainable agricultural practices in
developing countries, scientists found that resource-conserving
technologies and practices can improve crops production and also
preserve the environment. Download
article
Main Sources of
Eutrophication in Europe (19/01/06) Aquatic
ecosystems in Europe suffer from eutrophication caused by excessive
input of nutriments, namely nitrogen and phosphorous, from various
anthropogenic sources. The most recently updated information shows
that agriculture is the leading source of nitrogen pollution and
that in some EU countries it is becoming the main source of
phosphorous too. Download
article
Better Risk
Monitoring of GMP (05/01/06) Uncertainties
related to adverse environmental and health effects of the
cultivation of genetically modified plants could be managed on the
bases of post-market monitoring programme. A recently developed
conceptual framework for the design of such programme could be used
as bases for a wide EU consensus on this subject. Download
article
Trends in Air Pollutants Emission and Projections (13/12/07)
According to a recent report by the European Environment Agency, a number of countries in
Europe have already succeeded in reducing their emissions of certain pollutants below the
level of the pollutant-specific emission ceilings specified in the National Emission Ceilings
Directive. In addition, some countries anticipate that they will achieve the necessary
reduction before 2010.
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Impacts of Post-2012 Climate Policies on Air Quality (06/12/07)
European researchers have recently analysed the potential air quality co-benefits from different European post-2012 climate policies in Nordic countries. The results suggest that stricter targets and a more ambitious climate change policy will contribute to reduced emissions of air pollutants. On the other hand, expanding the European emissions trading scheme to new sectors might result in a small increase in emissions of air pollutants. A key aspect will be the post-2012 participation of Russia and non-EU Eastern Europe countries in emission trading.
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Mercury and Lead Pollution: still a Critical Issue in Europe (06/12/07)
Human activities release heavy metals into the atmosphere where they are also transported across national boundaries. This results in air, soil and water pollution through the deposition of heavy metals in environments that are located far away from the actual emission sources. Atmospheric deposition of mercury and lead in particular are calculated to be too high, affecting respectively 51.2% and 7.5% of EU-25 ecosystems respectively in 2000.
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Distribution of Atmospheric Particulate Matter in the Urban Environment (29/11/07)
Researchers have monitored the concentrations of particulate matter, a major air pollutant, in two different urban environments. Focusing on polar organic compounds, one of the constituents of particulate matter, their results provide a better understanding of the emission sources and atmospheric processes influencing the concentrations and seasonal composition of particulate matter
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New Insights into the Effects of Heavy Metal Pollution on Forests (29/11/07)
An international team of researchers has investigated the impacts of heavy metal pollution and acid rain on a young forest ecosystem. They have succeeded in recording the different impacts of acid rain and heavy metal pollution on certain tree species. Their results, which are very important for our understanding of the effects of heavy metal pollution on forests, can also help develop better solutions for cleaning heavy metal polluted soil.
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Air Quality over Europe (22/11/07)
A recent report by the European Environment Agency analyses changes in air pollutants in Europe between 1990 and 2004. The results show that, in spite of a major decrease in their precursors, airborne particulate matter and ground-level ozone concentrations have not improved since 1997. This could be due to the meteorological variability and growing long-distance transport of pollutants.
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Adverse Effects of Diesel Exhaust Inhalation on Men with Heart Disease (22/11/07)
European researchers have recently assessed the health effects of exposure to diesel exhaust in men with stable coronary heart disease. Decreased blood flow to the heart and inhibition of the release of an important protein involved in blood clotting were observed, which together can have serious cardiovascular consequences.
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Temporal Trends in the Concentration of Heavy Metals in Mosses in Europe (15/11/07)
Mosses are cheap and convenient bioindicators that show how heavy metals from the atmosphere are deposited on terrestrial ecosystems. In a recent study, a European team of scientists analysed the trends in the deposition of 10 heavy metals across Europe between 1990 and 2000. Overall, the metal concentration in mosses decreased with time for all metals. Metal- and country-specific temporal trends were observed.
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Integrated Effects of Air Pollution and Climate Change on Northern Forests (31/10/07)
Although there are complex chemical and physical interactions between greenhouse gases
(GHG) and air pollutants (AP), they are usually considered as separate issues. In a recent
study, an international team of scientists reviewed the links between GHG and AP and
assessed their interactive effects on northern hemisphere forests. The authors suggest that
the combined effects can significantly differ from the sum of the separate effects and call for
AP and GHG to be addressed simultaneously in order to maximise research, monitoring
and policy efficiency.
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The Area at Risk of Acidification is decreasing in Europe (25/10/07)
European researchers have recently used novel data in order to assess the areas at risk of acidification and eutrophication in Europe and the potential evolution over time. The results suggest that about 95% of ecosystems still at risk of acidification in 2010 could recover by 2030 if acid deposition is reduced in line with present legislation.
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Measuring Ambient Air Quality through Air Pollution Annoyance (18/10/07)
Researchers have recently assessed the level of annoyance caused by air pollution in 25 cities in 12 Western European countries. They suggest that this indicator of perceived ambient air quality could be useful in locating populations with the most urgent needs for environmental changes.
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Mitigating Particulate Matter by Planting Trees in Urban Environments (04/10/07)
Trees in urban environments are effective scavengers of both gaseous and particulate
pollutants from the atmosphere. In a recent study, a British team of scientists developed an
environmental information system for town planners that takes into account the latest data
on the effects of tree planting strategies on airborne aerosol concentrations. When applied
to real case studies, their results suggest that in some cases reductions can be sufficient to
meet air quality objectives for particulate matter.
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Particulate Matter: Contradiction between Science and EU policy (13/09/07)
In the light of several new findings regarding the health effects of airborne particulate matters (PM), the Environment and Health Committee of the European Respiratory Society has recently published their concerns on the mismatch between the best scientific evidence and EU policy. The authors call for stringent caps on PM concentrations, and more ambitious targets and enforcement of actual and upcoming air quality directives.
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Grass Culture as a Tool for Monitoring Pollution (19/07/07)
German researchers have recently used grass cultures as biological indicators of fluoride
pollution in the surroundings of a hydrogen fluoride production factory. They have shown
that the level of fluoride in plants increases as the distance to the factory decreases. In
addition, the concentration of pollutants in the plants was not found to be correlated with
climate conditions. The authors highlight that this active biological monitoring method to
measure pollutant concentration could be useful in the framework of several European
policies
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New Tool to evaluate Air Pollutant Abatement Policies (07/06/07)
Greek researchers have recently proposed an empirical modelling approach to evaluate the
efficiency of air pollutant reduction measures in urban areas, where traffic is the main
source of pollution. Their results suggest that to meet air quality standards defined under
EU legislation even at the most polluted sites of the Athens area, nitrogen dioxide levels
should be reduced by approximately 65% as compared to 1996 levels. At urban residential
sites the level of reductions required for standard compliance is much lower. Their model
could serve as a tool to determine pollutant abatement ratios as well as to evaluate current
management policies in the field of air quality.
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Benefits and Limitations of Thematic Network Projects (24/05/07)
Dutch researchers have recently analysed the experiences of a European Thematic
Network on Air Pollution and Health (AIRNET). A major limitation of this type of project is
the difficulty of encouraging greater participation from non-scientific parties. Overall, the
authors conclude that communication is a key factor and should be considered as the joint
responsibility of all the parties involved.
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Linking Air Quality and Climate Change Mitigation Strategies (24/05/07)
Governments are currently developing policies to improve air quality in order to safeguard human health
and sensitive ecosystems. In parallel, reducing emissions causing climate change is a key priority. In their
last report, the British Air Quality Expert Group emphasized the need to run policies with an integrated
perspective due to the complex linkages between air quality strategies and climate change. The expert
group calls for the setting up of an efficient air quality strategy framework at European, national and regional
levels. Interactions between air quality and climate change need to be taken into account in order to
maximize a win-win situation.
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Assessing the Benefits of Risk-Reduction Measures (26/04/07)
A team of researchers has recently surveyed Italian urban dwellers to assess how much
they are willing to pay to reduce the risk of dying from air pollution associated diseases.
They also assessed how respondents monetise the loss of a life within society. In Italy, the
survey reveals that the benefits associated with reducing the level of particulate matter in
the air by near 60% could represent between 2,600 and 5,500 million Euros per year.
Download article
Predicting the Effects of Legislation on SO2 Emissions from International Shipping (19/04/07)
Emissions of long range pollutants such as sulphur dioxide (SO 2) from international shipping
are expected to increase significantly in the coming decades and could be equivalent to up
to 75% of land-based emissions by 2010 if effective emission controls are not implemented.
A British team of scientists has recently assessed the expected benefits in the UK of tighter
legislation on emissions from ships transiting in the North Sea. By 2020, setting a cap of 1%
by mass on the sulphur fuel content of marine fuel could reduce total sulphur deposition by
6% and decrease by 1% the percentage area of sensitive habitats affected by pollutant
deposition.
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Mutagenic Effects of Urban Air Pollutants (08/03/07)
Italian scientists have recently demonstrated that fine particular matter in the air has
mutagenic potencies. This study provides new insights into air pollution regulation, in
particular in urban areas, as road traffic is the major source of this pollutant.
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Good Land Management may enhance Soil Depollution (22/02/07)
German researchers have recently studied the effect of land management practices on
the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus contents from heathlands. They have shown that
sod-cutting allows for a complete removal of nitrogen in soil. Prescribed burning is shown
to be the best practice to limit phosphorus removal, which could be useful in areas where
plant growth is limited by this chemical. Finally, their results highlight the role of combining
several management practices to achieve efficient long-term management.
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Possible Effects of Global Warming on Air Pollution (15/02/07)
Recently, Swedish researchers have investigated how climate changes could affect air
pollution in Europe. They found that part of the increase in surface ozone concentration
observed over Europe in the last decade could be due to changes in meteorology. They
conclude that future air pollution control strategies should take into consideration future
climate change and their effect on the concentration of air pollutants.
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How to improve Human Health Protection in Air Quality Policies (08/02/07)
Spanish and Belgian researchers have recently observed that the chemical composition of
the atmospheric particulate matter to which populations are exposed can vary widely
between different regions of Europe, even at similar concentration levels. Given that the
chemical composition of particulate matter may play an important role in the adverse effects
of the latter on human health, the results suggest that compliance with current limit values
does not result in the same health risk for different populations.
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New insights into the Effects of Traffic-related Air Pollution on Health (01/02/07)
In a recent study, researchers have observed a significant association between exposure to
traffic-related air pollution and the incidence of otitis media in children. The findings may
have significant implications for public health.
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How can Sustainable Development be achieved in Energy Use? (25/01/07)
European researchers have analysed the possible impacts of introducing additional charges
into the price of electricity to reflect the cost of associated environmental and health damage.
The results suggest that this would result in substantial changes in the electrical production
system in favour of the natural gas combined cycle, nuclear power and renewable energy
sources. This measure would also lead to a rapid emission reduction effect for air pollutants
and emittants causing global climate change.
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New Insights into Ozone-induced Plant Damage (30/11/06)
European researchers have assessed ozone-induced plant injury in eight European countries. The results suggest that ozone-induced plant damage generally increases from northern to southern Europe, but other environmental factors may strongly influence the impact of ozone pollution on a local scale. Furthermore, the results show that even though the strongest plant damage was observed in rural areas, ozone effects may also reach high levels in central urban areas and street sites.
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article
Past and Current Trends in Global Anthropogenic Sulphur Emissions (23/11/06)
A recent paper by a British researcher shows a 22% decline in global anthropogenic sulphur emissions during the 1990s. Local air pollution and smog levels will be improved if this trend is maintained. Nevertheless, global warming may be aggravated.
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article
Urban Air Pollution - a Major Cause of Pollution-related Cancer (09/11/06)
A French scientist has reviewed the current epidemiological evidence linking exposure to pollutants with cancer. The author found that in Europe, outdoor air contaminants and indoor radon exposure seem to be the two most major causes of pollution-related cancer. The author calls for more research, as the number of studies on the health effects of non-occupational exposure to diverse environmental pollutants is still very limited.
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article
Emissions of some Airborne Pollutants Continue to Fall in EU-15 (03/11/06)
A recent report by the European Environmental Agency presents the European Community air pollution emission data for the years 1990 to 2004. The report shows that in the EU-15, the largest reduction in relative terms was in sulphur oxides (-70%), followed by carbon monoxides (-50%). Nitrogen oxides also dropped by approximately 30%. After years of air legislation, the general trend in Western Europe and Scandinavian countries has been a fall in the emissions of the main airborne pollutants.
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article
Regulatory Measures for Emission Control of Power Two Wheelers (26/10/06) According to a recent Commission sponsored study, if no additional regulatory measures are taken, motorcycles and mopeds in Europe will emit more than 7% and 20% of total road transport carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons respectively by the year 2012. In order to control rising unburned hydrocarbon emissions, both evaporative emission control and roadworthiness tests are cost-effective. A further tightening of the emission standards for mopeds will be the most expensive but also the most effective measure. Download
article
New Predictions for the Global Atmospheric Environment by 2030 (05/10/06) An international group of scientists recently evaluated the likely changes in the global atmospheric environment between 2000 and 2030. The results suggest that current international legislation on air pollutant emissions is not enough to reduce the current associated problems related to increased ozone concentration and ecosystem damage due to elevated nitrogen deposition. Download
article Worldwide Distribution of Persistent Organic Pollutants (28/09/06) A new study carried out by a team of scientists from North America and Europe presents the most comprehensive analysis yet of global concentrations of persistent organic pollutants in the air. The most unexpected results are the high concentrations observed for pesticides banned several decades ago. The results also suggest that, in some cases, the emissions into the air of these compounds were due to possible new uses of the banned pesticides, but also highlight the continuing importance of old sources. Download
article Do the Nano-sized Particles we Breathe Pose a Risk to our Health? (14/09/06) American researchers recently investigated the potential health risks of ultrafine particles in rats. The results show that the nano-sized materials inhaled by rats follow a rapid and efficient pathway from the nasal cavity to several regions in the brain. Exposure also caused signs of inflammation and stress. The ultrafine particles used in the study are the same size as nanoparticles, which are controversial due to concern about their safety. Download
article Pesticide DDT's Polluting Legacy will Last for Many Decades (26/07/06) According to a recent Canadian study, agricultural soils containing residues of DDT, a banned pesticide, will continue to be a source of atmospheric contamination for more than a generation, much longer than previously believed. Download
article Dangerously High Ozone Levels in European Summer (13/07/06) A recent report by the European Environment Agency concludes that the ground ozone levels continue to exceed EU safe levels, thus threatening human health across Europe. Although not as high as in the record year 2003, ozone pollution rose again in summer 2005, specially in southern countries such as Portugal, Greece, and Spain. Download
article Positive Side-effect of Climate Change Policies on Air Quality (29/06/06) According to a recent study by the European Environment Agency, tackling climate change in Europe through climate change policies could make a substantial contribution to improving air quality as well. The predicted additional benefits include the improvement of Europe's air quality, a fall in premature deaths associated with air pollution, and the saving of up to 10 EUR billion annually in air pollution control costs by 2030. Download
article Lifestyle Choices Affect Personal Exposure to Air Pollutants (15/06/06) Results from an EU research project demonstrate that lifestyle and personal choices, including commuting behaviour, determine the level of exposure to air pollutants in urban areas. The active support of the general public is needed to reduce population exposure as a further improvement to the level of air quality achieved through legislation. Download
article Improved Assessment of Photochemical Pollution in Urban Areas (08/06/06) A recent study describes a new method that is likely to help improve assessment of the levels and fate of volatile organic compounds in urban environments. Assessing their overall fate in the urban environment would help to focus resources and legislative efforts on those volatile organic compounds of major concern. Download
article Ozone-sulphate Interaction Influences Climate Change (01/06/06) American scientists have explored the interaction between ozone and sulphate and its influence on climate. Results suggest that, by 2030, increased ozone precursors? emissions could lead to large increases in both ozone and sulphate surface air pollution in Asia, thus contributing up to 20% to the sulphate cooling effects on climate for that region relative to the present day. Download
article Nitrogen Emissions Threaten Biodiversity Hotspots (18/05/06) A group of scientists has recently analysed the threat of increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition to plant biodiversity at the global scale. Results suggest that biodiversity hotspots around the world are currently receiving, or are predicted to receive, rates of nitrogen deposition equivalent to those that have caused impacts in Europe. The sensitivity of many of these ecosystems to nitrogen impact is unknown and studies are urgently required to determine the risk to plant biodiversity. Download
article Air Pollution Levels at
Traffic Hotspots in European Cities (04/05/06) A recent
report by the European Environmental Agency shows that the air
quality limit values are often exceeded in European cities,
especially in streets and other urban hotspots. Air quality
projections for 2030 suggest that PM10 limit value is not expected
to be met even in the most optimistic scenario. Download
article
Life Expectancy Approach
to Assess Health Impacts of Air Pollution (27/04/06) A
French scientist has presented a new approach in performing and
interpreting epidemiological analyses to assess mortality impacts of
air pollution. It uses life expectancy in the place of mortality and
gives a deeper insight to quantify chronic effects of air
pollutants. Download
article
Exposure to Ozone May
Affect Human Reproduction (20/04/06) Scientists who have
examined the relationships between exposure to specific air
pollutants and semen quality report significant declines in semen
quality associated with exposure to ozone air pollution. Download
article
Cost-effective
Strategies to Improve Urban Air Quality (06/04/06) A
British research team has recently evaluated the cost and the
efficiency of different actions to improve air quality in London.
The results suggest that the most cost-effective strategies involve
extensive conversion to alternative fuels. Download
article
Mitigating Ozone
Pollution with Methane Emission Control (30/03/06) A
recent research has explored the impact of methane mitigation on the
atmospheric levels of ozone, an air pollutant associated with
premature mortality. The results show that a 20% reduction of
current global methane emissions that could be achieved by 2010
could prevent 30,000 premature mortalities globally in 2030.
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article
Impact of Urban
Structure on Air Quality (23/03/06) Using three
imaginary cities, a Portuguese research team has recently modelled
the impact of urban spatial structures on air pollution. The results
suggest that a compact structure with mixed land use limits traffic
and provides better urban air quality. Download
article
Diesel Exhaust Inhalation
Impairs Vascular Functions (02/03/06) In a new
experimental study, European researchers have shown that exposure to
increased levels of combustion-derived air pollution for as little
as 1 hour can impair vascular functions in humans. These data
provide a plausible biological link to explain the association
between air pollution and the acute heart attack. Download
article
Reduced Air Pollution
Improves Children's Health (16/02/06) In a recent
epidemiology study, Swiss researchers have demonstrated that even
small reductions in rather moderate air pollution levels contribute
to improved respiratory health in children. Download
article
Long - term Effect of Air
Pollution in Europe (12/01/06) Results from a recent
European study show that air pollution assessed in France in the
1970s is associated with increased mortality over 25 years. These
results emphasise the need for additional long term studies for the
development of effective strategies for reducing the risks related
to long - term exposure to air pollution. Download
article
Health Effects of Air
Pollution Underestimated? (05/12/05) Recent study of the
relationships between air pollution and mortality at within-city
scale demonstrates that the contribution of particulate matter to
chronic health problems may be two to three times greater than
current estimates which are based on conventional between-cities
approach. Download
article
Public Awareness and Policy Effectiveness: the Case of Alien Species (06/12/07)
Non-controlled invasive alien species are posing a major threat to ecosystem balance. Scientists have recently determined that socio-demographics factors, as well as the kind of species and the method used, are significant criteria to take into account when designing alien species control and eradication policies. Raising awareness and educating the general public should then become a priority in order to enhance the acceptance and success of such policies.
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How can the EU's 2010 Biodiversity Target protect Rare Species? (29/11/07)
A European team of researchers has recently reviewed the existing European indicators defined to assess progress towards the 2010 target for biodiversity conservation. They highlight that rarity aspects are not given enough importance by current indicators, which in turn could endanger the survival of several species, mainly invertebrates occurring in small geographical areas.
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Transgenic Crops May Damage Headwater Stream Ecosystems (22/11/07)
Bt corn is a genetically engineered crop variety which produces a toxin that protects the plant from pests. In a recent study, an American team of scientists found that corn byproducts such as pollen and detritus enter adjacent headwater streams and increase mortality of non target insects. As stream insects are a basic link in river food chains and provide food for amphibians, fish and birds, this could have ecosystem-scale consequences.
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Wind Farms Can Adversely Affect Colonies of Breeding Terns (15/11/07)
This study analysed the impacts of a line of wind turbines on a nearby colony of breeding terns. It shows that the additional mortality due to the turbines is significant for the local population. These findings confirm that building wind farms next to birds? breeding areas with frequent local flights should be avoided.
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Benefits of Wastelands for the Protection of Urban Biodiversity (08/11/07)
Recent research has emphasised the role urban wastelands can play in preserving biodiversity in urban areas. Large connected wasteland seems to be a significant source of floristic diversity and thus disseminates and colonises surrounding neighbourhoods. Scientists suggest that preserving wasteland in urban areas could be necessary to protect urban biodiversity.
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Human Activities significantly decrease the Earth's Biological Productivity (31/10/07)
How much of the biosphere?s productivity can we appropriate before planetary systems begin to break down? Austrian researchers have recently quantified and mapped the impacts of human land use and biomass harvest on the biosphere. The results suggest that humans consume approximately 24% of the organic matter contained in vegetation globally. This amount reduces energy available to other species, having a marked impact on biodiversity, flows of carbon, water and energy. Croplands and pastures now rival forests as the largest ecosystems on the planet, occupying 35 % of the ice-free land surface
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Motives behind the Willingness to pay for Biodiversity Conservation (25/10/07)
A recent Spanish study investigates the relationship between public attitudes and the willingness to pay for biodiversity conservation. The results suggest that the role of affective factors is much more important than the role of ecological-scientific considerations when determining the willingness to allocate funds for conservation.
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The Benefits of European Policies on Bird Conservation (20/09/07)
A European team of scientists has recently investigated the benefits of EU policy instruments on bird conservation by studying bird population trends in Europe following the implementation of the Wild Birds Directive. While their results highlight the measurable benefits of supranational conservation programs, they also suggest that future assessments will require the setting of quantitative objectives and adequate monitoring schemes in order to provide relevant data to assess and improve policy efficiency.
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Effects of Pollutants on the Communication between Organisms (20/09/07)
Dutch researchers have recently reviewed existing scientific evidence of the impact of environmental pollutants on the communication between organisms of the biosphere. They suggest that, rather than endocrine disruption, the wider issue of info-disruption should be a priority.
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A cost-effective Site Selection Model for Biodiversity Conservation (13/09/07)
Finnish researchers have recently developed a model to help decision-makers select sites for biodiversity preservation. They have shown that all biodiversity targets cannot be met simultaneously and that it might not be economically efficient to protect all species. In addition, they show that the budget allocated to conservation has a considerable impact on the optimal biodiversity preservation policy.
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Effects of Fish Extinction on Ecosystems (12/07/07)
Nitrogen and phosphorus are crucial nutrients in aquatic ecosystems as most organisms at
the base of the food chain rely on them. Considering that the recycling of nutrients is directly
influenced by fishes, an American team of scientists has recently investigated the impacts of
fish extinction on nutrients recycling processes. Their results highlight the complexity of
predicting the consequences of extinctions from species-rich animal communities.
Nevertheless, the importance of exploited fish species in nutrient recycling suggests that
overfishing could have particularly detrimental effects on ecosystem functioning.
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Organic Farming restores Biodiversity (05/07/07)
A Finnish researcher has investigated to what extent organic farming can restore
biodiversity losses caused by intensive land uses in the past. The results of his study of 131
fields in Finland show that, even for short periods, organic cropping allows some restoration
of weed populations, which are found in some cases at a higher frequency and density than
before the intensive use of these lands. Overall, this practice could be useful for sustainable
agriculture.
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Fishing Gear Losses: Impacts and Management Responses (07/06/07)
'Ghost fishing' occurs when fishing gear such as nets or traps is lost or discarded and continues to catch
species of fish and crustaceans unintentionally. In a recent study, a British team of scientists investigated
the impact of ghost fishing in net fisheries in the EU and assessed the costs and benefits of common
management responses to address this issue. Their results suggest that gear retrieval programmes may
prove less profitable than other management responses unless the actual costs of ghost fishing are very
high. Preventive measures are thus likely to be preferable.
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Perception of Invasive Plant Species in the Mediterranean (31/05/07)
An international team of researchers has recently conducted a survey of relevant
stakeholders on three Mediterranean islands in order to determine the current perception of
the issues relating to invasive plant species in these regions. The results reveal that this
perception should be enhanced and that support should be provided for better
environmental management of invasive species in these regions.
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Assessing the Efficiency of a Biodiversity Hot Spot Protection Scheme (24/05/07)
New forestry practices have been developed during the past decade in order to enhance biodiversity. In
Finland, Forest Act Legislation has attempted to identify a set of key habitats to protect biodiversity. In a
recent study, a Finnish scientist investigated the efficiency of the so called Forest Act Habitat (FAH)
scheme. 78% of threatened populations were found in habitat types covered in the Act, and 28% occurred
in sites fulfilling the FAH criteria. However, only 4% of the targeted species were located in sites actually
defined as FAH by forest authorities. The author concludes that FAHs have the potential to protect
biodiversity in boreal forests but need to be better implemented in order to achieve their targets.
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A Step-by-Step Methodology to reduce Biodiversity Losses (29/03/07)
As part of an EU-funded research project, a German researcher has recently proposed a
step-by-step method to design effective policies for coping with biodiversity losses. By
identifying the sources of anthropogenic pressures on biodiversity, this method provides
new insights on how to design efficient environmental policies in the field of biodiversity.
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Impacts of Climate Warming on Plant Reproduction (15/03/07)
Researchers have recently investigated the consequences of a warmer climate on the
plant community. The results show that the timing of periodic events such as flowering is
affected by warmer temperatures. As a consequence, new competitive relationships
between plant species could arise, which in turn may diminish their reproductive capacity.
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Improving the Prioritisation of Conservation Actions (01/03/07)
Researchers have recently investigated to what extent biodiversity hotspots are efficient
bases for conservation actions. They have shown that if the aim is to maximise the
number of species on Earth, conservation actions should preferably be based on hotspots
of threatened species or restricted-range species rather than on species-richness
hotspots. They also suggest that basing conservation exclusively on hotspots is a limited
strategy.
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Improving Efficiency of Agri-Environment Schemes through better Design (22/02/07)
British researchers have recently investigated the correlations between abundance of
farmland birds and key landscape attributes (hedge heights, trees) which are commonly
used in the design of biodiversity conservation plans such as European agri-environment
schemes. As these correlations tend to vary on a regional basis, the authors suggest that
conservation programmes could protect widespread species more efficiently if they were
designed and applied on a regional scale rather than uniformly on a national scale.
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How Agricultural Practices influence Plant Distribution (08/02/07)
An European team of researchers has recently analysed the effects of agricultural practices
on the abundance and diversity of various species of weeds. The results of their
investigation on German wheat fields show that there are 1.5 more weed species and 1.1
more insect pollinated plants in organic farming than in conventional farming. These
findings highlight the influence of land-use patterns on the structure of fauna and flora
communities in cultivated areas.
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How the Scale of Human Population Density affects Biodiversity (25/01/07)
In a recent paper, a European researcher has studied the link between human population
density and species richness. By compiling the results of several studies, he has shown
that the correlation between human population presence and biodiversity is scaledependent.
This highlights the need to conserve green areas in regions where
urbanisation is increasing in order to design sustainable cities.
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Birds: good Indicators of the Effects of Climate Change (18/01/07)
German researchers have recently examined whether climate change had an impact on
European bird communities between the mid 70s and the 90s. Results show that observed
changes in the proportion of migrant and resident birds inside communities can be explained
up to 69% by models of climate change impacts on biodiversity.
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New Method to assess the Effectiveness of Conservation Actions (11/01/07)
American scientists have recently proposed a new method for assessing the effectiveness of land conservation projects in protecting threatened and rare species. This new approach takes into account the contribution of reserves to the persistence of species in different regions. This innovative tool for assessing conservation initiatives could be useful in improving the allocation of resources in protected areas.
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New insights into the Adaptation of Ecosystems to Toxic Substances (21/12/06)
American scientists have observed that some plants are able to accumulate the toxic element selenium at unusually high levels. They have shown that this accumulation ability, and the associated selenium tolerance, can enable selenium to move up the food chain. The results provide new insights into biological adaptation to toxic substances that may have interesting agricultural and medical applications.
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Species Evolution will not prevent Extinctions caused by Global Warming (14/12/06)
A recent review of plant and animal species highlights their dramatic responses to climate change. Global warming is seen to be responsible for habitat and food resources moving or declining, leading to species migration and extinction. The results of the study suggest that evolution will not counterbalance the consequences of future global warming on species extinction.
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New Insights into Ozone-induced Plant Damage (30/11/06)
European researchers have assessed ozone-induced plant injury in eight European countries. The results suggest that ozone-induced plant damage generally increases from northern to southern Europe, but other environmental factors may strongly influence the impact of ozone pollution on a local scale. Furthermore, the results show that even though the strongest plant damage was observed in rural areas, ozone effects may also reach high levels in central urban areas and street sites.
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article
How can Ecosystems be managed successfully? (30/11/06)
A recent American study has analysed and identified principles that are important for successful integrative and collaborative ecosystem management. The results suggest that it is possible to balance social, economic, and ecological benefits in environmental protection and resource management projects.
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article
Fish-farm Parasites have Severe Impacts on Wild Fish Populations (23/11/06)
A new Canadian study provides new insights about the possible impacts of aquaculture on wildlife. The research concludes that sea lice from salmon farms can have severe impacts on wild salmon. The results show that up to 95% of young wild salmon died in the studied area due to farm-origin lice infection. This effect may not be limited to salmon but may extend to other species farmed around the world.
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article
Likely Decline of Europe Biodiversity between Now and 2030 (16/11/06)
Dutch researchers have analysed a set of indicators that describe different aspects of biodiversity in the EU-25 countries in order to assess whether the EU commitment to halting biodiversity loss by 2010 can be reached. The results suggest that biodiversity is projected to decrease between now and 2030 in most countries for all the scenarios under study.
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article
The Role of Policy in Facilitating Adaptation to Climate Change (09/11/06)
European researchers have recently analysed the vulnerability of agricultural land use and species to climate change. The results suggest that the impacts of climate change in the agricultural sector and the consequent adaptation could have significant effects on the ability of species to adapt to climate change. It is therefore important to assess the vulnerability of both agriculture and species if appropriate policy measures are to be implemented in response to climate change.
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article
The Decline of Small Fish Species Disrupts Rivers (12/10/06) Scientists have recently concluded that removing just one fish species from a freshwater ecosystem can have major effects on the ecosystem's health. This finding contradicts the generally-held belief that the greater abundance and diversity of other species could compensate for the loss. Therefore, over-fishing small species may seriously and irreversibly disrupt how rivers function and the services, such as clean water, they provide. Download
article
Searching for Sustainable Strategies for Alien Plant Control (28/09/06) European researchers have investigated sustainable strategies to control the spread and prevent future invasion of giant hogweed, a weed seen as an important threat to biodiversity in Europe. None of the identified natural enemies that feed on this weed have been found to be promising candidates for a European biological control programme. On the other hand, the results provide a better insight into this plant's natural enemies and defence mechanisms that may help to develop a more sustainable management strategy in the future. Download
article Conclusive Proof that Spring is Arriving Earlier across Europe (21/09/06) A group of European scientists have recently presented conclusive evidence that climate change is affecting the seasons. They found that spring is starting earlier across Europe than it did 30 years ago, a trend that closely matches national warming levels measured across the continent. Download
article
Rising Sea Levels Threaten Pacific Ocean Mangroves (14/09/06) According to a recent study by the UN Environmental Programme, urgent action is required to protect Pacific Ocean mangroves from the impacts of rising sea levels, linked to global warming. The results of the report indicate that, by the end of the century, some of the islands in the region could lose half of their mangroves. Download
article
Changes in Agricultural Policy Needed to Halt Loss of Farmland Birds (14/09/06) A recent study provides further evidence that confirms the negative impact of agricultural intensification on European farmland birds. The authors highlight the importance of agri-environmental schemes as the best available mechanism to reduce the decline in farmland biodiversity over large areas. Furthermore, they suggest that substantial changes to the European agricultural policy are needed if the 2010 targets to reduce or halt biodiversity loss are to be met. Download
article Wild Bees and the Flowers They Pollinate Are Declining in Europe (07/09/06) European researchers have recently provided, for the first time, evidence of a significant decline in wild bee diversity in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands over the past 25 years. The scientists also observed that the loss of this pollinator?s diversity is consistent with the loss of bee-pollinated plants. As many crops are directly dependant on insects for their pollination, the reported decline in the bee population may have severe implications for farming. Download
article Increased Human Population: Major Driver of Fish Decline in Lakes (26/07/06) A recent Austrian study has examined current and historical fish communities in natural lakes and analysed the relationship between the observed decline in fish, and human impact. The results showed that freshwater fish communities have experienced significant changes during the past 150 years. Increased human population was found to be the main driver of the changes in the composition and decline of fish species, as it leads to increased human pressure from recreational activities and commercial utilisation. Download
article Climate Change May Threaten Amphibians and Reptiles in Europe (20/07/06) A recent study by European researchers has concluded that the impact of rising temperatures on amphibian and reptile species in Europe may be less damaging than previously predicted. Nevertheless, the ability of these animals to cope with increasing temperatures might depend on the availability of water and on their capacity to adapt by colonising new habitats that will become available with climate change. Due to the increased aridity and stress on water resources, the most worrisome decline is expected in southwest Europe. Download
article Ecological Restoration Requires New Approaches upon Global Warming (13/07/06) A recent study has examined the possible implications of global climate change for ecological restoration. The authors conclude that traditional restoration methods may not always be applicable in the future. New approaches that take into account the implications of a changing environment are therefore required. Download
article Is Europe Progressing Towards the 2010 Biodiversity Targets? (06/07/06) According to a recent report by the European Environment Agency, the condition of European forests and wetlands is improving along with the water quality in many rivers and lakes in recent decades. Nevertheless, habitat and species decline and ecosystem degradation continues. Further efforts are required to safeguard Europe?s biodiversity, and to achieve EU conservation targets for 2010. Download
article Biodiversity Holds the Key to Sustainable Biofuel Production (22/06/06) According to a recent study by American scientists, ecosystems containing a greater number of plant species, produce more biomass. This result suggests that biodiversity holds the key to producing a sustainable supply of biomass for biofuel. Furthermore, ecosystems with a higher biodiversity are more stable and are therefore able to recover more easily from climate extremes, pests and disease over long periods of time. Download
article Long-term Decline in Numbers of Migrant Birds Breeding in Europe(22/06/06) European researchers have recently found a long-term and severe population decline of long-distance migrant birds breeding in Europe. The major drivers of this trend are not known, but the results of the study indicate that more conservation measures outside Europe may be required to conserve migratory species. Download
article Ongoing Decline of Earth's Biodiversity (15/06/06) The latest 2006 IUCN Red list of Threatened Species, released in May 2006 by The World Conservation Union (IUCN), reveals an ongoing decline of the Earth?s biodiversity. The number of known threatened species has reached 16,119 according to the latest assessment of the global status of plants and animals. Species such as the polar bear, hippopotamus, and desert gazelles; together with ocean sharks, freshwater fish and Mediterranean flowers have recently joined the list of endangered species. Download
article Antarctic Birds Affected by Climate Change (01/06/06) Antarctic seabirds may be breeding later in response to climate change, according to a new study. Results indicated that some bird species are arriving at their colonies an average of nine days later and laying eggs on average two days later than they did in the 1950s. These results suggest that Antarctic seabirds are already responding to environmental changes. Download
article Nitrogen Emissions Threaten Biodiversity Hotspots (18/05/06) A group of scientists has recently analysed the threat of increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition to plant biodiversity at the global scale. Results suggest that biodiversity hotspots around the world are currently receiving, or are predicted to receive, rates of nitrogen deposition equivalent to those that have caused impacts in Europe. The sensitivity of many of these ecosystems to nitrogen impact is unknown and studies are urgently required to determine the risk to plant biodiversity. Download
article Global Warming Threatens
Planet's Biodiversity (11/05/06) A recent study has
assessed the magnitude of the threat of the global warming to
terrestrial biodiversity at the global scale using vegetation
models. The results suggest that, by the end of this century, the
extinction rates of terrestrial plant and animal species caused by
global warming, in some cases could equal or even exceed those due
to deforestation in some tropical hotspots. Download
article
Deep-Sea Fishes on the
Way to Extinction (04/05/06) Recent research survey data
have shown that five species of deep sea fish have declined
substantially over the past few decades due to unsustainable fishing
practices. This finding suggests that conservation measures, such as
the establishment of deep-sea protected areas are urgently needed in
order to prevent the collapse of deep-sea fishes and fisheries.
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article
Biodiversity
Conservation Threatened by Land Market Dynamics
(04/05/06) According to a new study, it is important to
consider the impact of real estate market dynamics when considering
land purchase in conservation programmes for biodiversity
protection. Without good data and an understanding of the laws of
supply and demand, the purchase of land for conservation could
sometimes even do more harm than good for biodiversity. Download
article
Soil Erosion Mechanisms
and Threats (27/04/06) An American scientist has
recently reviewed the different drivers and the effects of soil
erosion. This literature survey highlights that soil erosion exerts
detrimental effects on food production as well as on the natural
environment, and calls for the development of effective conservation
methods. Download
article
Conservation Measures
Needed for European Butterflies(27/04/06) A new research
has identified Prime Butterfly Areas (PBA) in Europe where
conservation efforts should be focused. The obtained information
shows that many species are declining rapidly, even within protected
areas, in response to the degradation of the breeding habitats.
Conservation measures are needed urgently. Download
article
Effects of Farm Size and
Organic Farming on Biodiversity (20/04/06) A team of
Swedish researchers has investigated how different field-size
depending management practices affect biodiversity, ecosystem
structure, and landscape diversity in agricultural ecosystems. More
than twice as many bird species and number of habitats were found on
the small farms compared to the large farms. Download
article
Ecosystem Shift in the
Northern Bering Sea Driven by Climate Change
(20/04/06) A new research has assessed changes in
ecosystems in the Northern Bering Sea in response to climate change.
Results support the evidence of a reorganization of the marine
ecosystems driven by climate changes in the Arctic region. These
changes might have irreversible effects on Arctic marine mammal and
seabirds populations, and commercial and subsistence
fisheries. Download
article
Integrating Artificial
Ecosystems in Biodiversity Management Policies
(20/04/06) A French research team has recently compared
freshwater fish species communities in reservoirs, lakes, and rivers
in order to assess whether natural systems could be used as
references for artificial ones. Results revealed that reservoirs are
not systematically comparable to natural ecosystems. However, the
authors underline that reservoirs should be considered in
biodiversity management policies at the hydrographic basin
scale. Download
article
Latent Extinction Risk
for Conservation Planning (30/03/06) A recent study has
identified 20 new hotspots for biodiversity protection using the
concept of ?latent extinction risk?. Incorporating latent extinction
risk patterns into conservation planning could help to anticipate
biodiversity losses before they begin, by implementing preventive
measures. Download
article
European Plant Diversity
is Threatened by Climate Change (16/03/06) An
international research team has investigated into the survival of
various European plant species under four hypothetical climate
change scenarios for the period 2051-2080. Their results suggest a
large risk of species extinction even under the most optimistic
scenario. Download
article
Climate-Linked Epidemic
Hypothesis Confirmed? (16/03/06) New scientific research
finds that the extinction of amphibians associated with epidemic
diseases is tied to global warming. The authors suggest that
temperatures in many highland regions are shifting towards the
optimum growth conditions for amphibian pathogens, thus encouraging
disease outbreaks. Download
article
Brighter Side of
Genetically Modified Crops? (16/03/06) The debate about
the environmental impacts of genetically modified crops continues to
be highly controversial. While growing evidence highlight that
introduction of genetically modified crops could have negative
impact on the wildlife, a recent literature review suggests that
such crops could improve soil management techniques without
threatening biodiversity. Download
article
Importance of Mangrove
Plants for Global Carbon Cycle (09/03/06) An analysis of
the impact of mangrove plants on marine carbon inventories suggests
that the mangroves account for more than 10% of the terrestrially
derived dissolved organic carbon transported to the ocean, while
they cover only 0.1% of the continents? surface. The worldwide rapid
decline of mangroves could have potential consequences on the
atmospheric composition and the climate. Download
article
Biodiversity Trends in
Europe (16/02/06) Scientists have developed a new
biodiversity trend indicator that could provide a useful tool for
tracking progress in achieving the EU biodiversity goals. The trial
analysis of the indicator suggests that species populations have
declined in nearly all habitats of the Pan-European region between
1970 and 2000. Download
article
Freshwater Biodiversity
Threatened by Climate Change (26/01/06) A recent research
project has addressed the losses in freshwater biodiversity under
plausible climate change and water consumption scenarios. About half
of the investigated rivers worldwide would experience reduced water
availability due to both global warming and withdrawal of water for
human needs. By 2070, in these drying rivers, loss in local fish
species would range from less than 4% to more than 22% with a
maximum of 75% loss in the most affected rivers. Download
article
Biodiversity Preservation
under Changing Climate (12/01/06) European researchers
have demonstrated that long-distance dispersal across fragmented
habitats will likely be crucial for species adaptation to climate
change. This finding has important implications for conservation
targets of landscape planning under predicted changes in climate.
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article
How to Reverse Fish
Decline in Rivers ? (05/01/06) Scientists identified
three main causes of the ongoing decline in fish catches in
Switzerland: fisheries management relying upon stocking practices,
poor fish health related to parasitic diseases, and habitat
situation (presence of multiple man-made barriers and degradation of
water quality). The measures to be taken to reverse the situation
should be focused not on a single factor but on all three of the
identified priority issues. Download
article
Biodiversity at the Bases
of Ecosystem Services (05/12/05) New international
scientific report highlights that maintenance of the diversity of
species with different functional characteristics insure a more
stable supply of ecosystem services that underpin human well-being
and render ecosystems more resistant to natural and human-induced
environmental perturbations. Download
article
Risky Species Response to
Climate Change (24/11/05) New study suggests that some
species are responding to climate change in ways which could
threaten their survival in the future. It seems that the velocity of
climate change, together with pressure on habitat, make it difficult
for species to optimally adapt to the new human-driven environmental
conditions. Download
article
Stable catch: warning for
future fishery collapse? (24/11/05) Analysis of the
dynamics of world fisheries suggests that a stable level of catch
over several years masks the risk of sudden collapse. This puts in
question the common assumption that considers the stability of catch
as a goal for fisheries sustainability. Download
article
Transgenic Crops May Damage Headwater Stream Ecosystems (22/11/07)
Bt corn is a genetically engineered crop variety which produces a toxin that protects the plant from pests. In a recent study, an American team of scientists found that corn byproducts such as pollen and detritus enter adjacent headwater streams and increase mortality of non target insects. As stream insects are a basic link in river food chains and provide food for amphibians, fish and birds, this could have ecosystem-scale consequences.
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Temporal Trends in the Concentration of Heavy Metals in Mosses in Europe (15/11/07)
Mosses are cheap and convenient bioindicators that show how heavy metals from the atmosphere are deposited on terrestrial ecosystems. In a recent study, a European team of scientists analysed the trends in the deposition of 10 heavy metals across Europe between 1990 and 2000. Overall, the metal concentration in mosses decreased with time for all metals. Metal- and country-specific temporal trends were observed.
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Industrial Biotechnology and Green Chemistry from a Life Cycle Perspective (11/10/07)
Over the last decade, the chemical industry has been subject to increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. In a recent study, a Swedish team of scientists highlights the current trend towards the bio-based production of chemicals and the potential of biotechnology to provide green chemistry solutions to the industry. Based on three case studies, the authors stress the need for evaluation of the environmental impact of green chemistry from a life cycle perspective and identify raw material production as the step with greatest potential for improvement.
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Grass Culture as a Tool for Monitoring Pollution (19/07/07)
German researchers have recently used grass cultures as biological indicators of fluoride
pollution in the surroundings of a hydrogen fluoride production factory. They have shown
that the level of fluoride in plants increases as the distance to the factory decreases. In
addition, the concentration of pollutants in the plants was not found to be correlated with
climate conditions. The authors highlight that this active biological monitoring method to
measure pollutant concentration could be useful in the framework of several European
policies
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The Environmental Risks of GMOs (10/05/07)
By including herbicides and pest-resistant genes in the gene pool of crops, biotechnology can be a powerful method of significantly increasing the production yield of crops. While transgenic crops such as maize and soybean are already authorised in Europe, genetically modified sunflowers are not. Researchers have recently reviewed the existing literature regarding the potential benefits and environmental damages that such transgenic sunflowers could generate. They show that the pollination of wild sunflowers could be the major impact of the release of transgenic plants and that appropriate control should be involved to prevent it.
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New Method to remove Arsenic from Soils (08/03/07)
Indian researchers have recently shown that siderophores are efficient washing agents that can remove arsenic from contaminated soils. These small organic compounds secreted by micro-organisms are able to remove up to 92.8% of arsenic in contaminated soils after 5 washings. These findings could be useful for removing this toxic chemical from soils in industrial areas where it may be discharged.
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A Step towards more Sustainable Phosphorus Fertilisation Techniques (01/03/07)
Rock phosphate is a fertiliser that needs to be solubilised in order to enhance
phosphorus availability to plants. This is traditionally achieved by chemical processing. In
this context, Spanish researchers have recently investigated the use of micro-organisms
growing on agro-industrial waste as a surrogate for chemicals. With solubilisation yields
of up to 59.7%, their experiments confirm that the environmentally-mild fertilisation
technique of microbial solubilisation of rock phosphate could be coupled with waste
reuse. This win-win approach could also have a potential application for degraded soils.
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New insights into the Adaptation of Ecosystems to Toxic Substances (21/12/06)
American scientists have observed that some plants are able to accumulate the toxic element selenium at unusually high levels. They have shown that this accumulation ability, and the associated selenium tolerance, can enable selenium to move up the food chain. The results provide new insights into biological adaptation to toxic substances that may have interesting agricultural and medical applications.
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Does Transgenic Maize affect Soil Bacteria? (05/10/06) European scientists have recently studied the possible effects of genetically modified plants on soil microbial communities. The results suggest that the presence of transgenic maize influences the abundance and diversity of the soil bacteria and also the way their ecosystems behave. This may have relevant implications due to the highly critical role that soil micro-organisms play in agro-ecosystems. Download
article Fungi may be Able to Degrade Tough Plastic (20/07/06) A recent American study shows for the first time that any organism, in particular fungi, can degrade phenolic resins, widely used in plastic formulations. The finding is an important first step towards the biodegradation and recycling of these compounds, which are known for their durability and resistance to attack by termites and fungi. Nevertheless, more research is necessary to better understand the mechanisms and controlling factors before it can be widely applied and commercially available. Download
article Future Applications of Micro-organisms for Cyanide Decontamination (29/06/06) British scientists have recently assessed the current and future use of micro-organisms in a technique known as bioremediation that renders cyanide contamination harmless in water and soil. According to the authors, microbial treatment represents a potentially less expensive and more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional mitigation solutions, but its application needs to be further optimised in order to be competitive and feasible. Download
article Natural Remediation of Soils Polluted with Wood Treatment Chemicals (18/05/06) A recent study explored the applicability of natural remediation using plants in soils polluted with Pentachlorophenol. The results suggest that some plants, in particular poplar and willow, are able to tolerate this pollutant?s presence in soil and enhance its degradation. Therefore, they can be used for the remediation of large volumes of low-level contaminated soil. However, careful management is needed to ensure soil and plant health. Download
article Challenges to Achieve a
Coherent GMO Legislation (11/05/06) A team of European
scientists evaluated the coherence of existing analytical methods
for the quantitative and qualitative detection of genetically
modified products in the context of the current European
legislation. The study provides new insights to the prediction of
genetically modified material quantities and proposes new
terminology. Download
article
Brighter Side of
Genetically Modified Crops? (16/03/06) The debate about
the environmental impacts of genetically modified crops continues to
be highly controversial. While growing evidence highlight that
introduction of genetically modified crops could have negative
impact on the wildlife, a recent literature review suggests that
such crops could improve soil management techniques without
threatening biodiversity. Download
article
Using Biotechnology
Against Global Warming (23/02/06) In recent research,
scientists have discovered a mutant enzyme that could enable plants
to use and convert carbon dioxide more quickly, effectively removing
more greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Download
article
Proved Risk of GM
Peas (26/01/06) A decade-long project on pest-resistant
peas was abandoned after an immune response study demonstrated that
mice fed with such peas suffered adverse reactions and lung
inflammation. The work strongly supports the need for case specific
examination of genetically modified plants and the importance of
science in decision making related to the cultivation of GM
crops. Download
article
Better Risk
Monitoring of GMP (05/01/06) Uncertainties
related to adverse environmental and health effects of the
cultivation of genetically modified plants could be managed on the
bases of post-market monitoring programme. A recently developed
conceptual framework for the design of such programme could be used
as bases for a wide EU consensus on this subject. Download
article
Mercury and Lead Pollution: still a Critical Issue in Europe (06/12/07)
Human activities release heavy metals into the atmosphere where they are also transported across national boundaries. This results in air, soil and water pollution through the deposition of heavy metals in environments that are located far away from the actual emission sources. Atmospheric deposition of mercury and lead in particular are calculated to be too high, affecting respectively 51.2% and 7.5% of EU-25 ecosystems respectively in 2000.
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Sources of Exposure to Lead in Children (31/10/07)
French researchers have recently demonstrated that the main cause of exposure to lead in
children is food consumption. Lead exposure may have significant health impacts even at
low levels and hence this study helps to identify sources of lead exposure in children.
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The Area at Risk of Acidification is decreasing in Europe (25/10/07)
European researchers have recently used novel data in order to assess the areas at risk of acidification and eutrophication in Europe and the potential evolution over time. The results suggest that about 95% of ecosystems still at risk of acidification in 2010 could recover by 2030 if acid deposition is reduced in line with present legislation.
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Acid Rain severely impacts Coastal Water (18/10/07)
According to recent research, the impact of anthropogenic nitrogen and sulphur deposition on ocean acidification is minor on a global scale. Nevertheless, the impacts are more substantial in coastal water, which is more vulnerable, and therefore more affected due to pollution, overfishing and climate change.
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Industrial Biotechnology and Green Chemistry from a Life Cycle Perspective (11/10/07)
Over the last decade, the chemical industry has been subject to increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. In a recent study, a Swedish team of scientists highlights the current trend towards the bio-based production of chemicals and the potential of biotechnology to provide green chemistry solutions to the industry. Based on three case studies, the authors stress the need for evaluation of the environmental impact of green chemistry from a life cycle perspective and identify raw material production as the step with greatest potential for improvement.
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Long Term Impacts of Oil Spills on Bird Populations (27/09/07)
A Spanish team of scientists has recently investigated the presence of health disorders in seagull populations exposed to the Prestige oil spill that occurred in 2002. Biological tests and the study of physiological parameters suggest the presence of non-lethal damage to the health of gulls breeding in oiled colonies. This damage appears to be caused by persistent pollutants 17 months after the incident. These findings emphasize the need to quantify the circulating level of persistent chemicals in order to assess long term impacts associated with large oil spills.
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Effects of Pollutants on the Communication between Organisms (20/09/07)
Dutch researchers have recently reviewed existing scientific evidence of the impact of environmental pollutants on the communication between organisms of the biosphere. They suggest that, rather than endocrine disruption, the wider issue of info-disruption should be a priority.
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Co-benefits of the Montreal Protocol (06/09/07)
According to research led by the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, the
Montreal Protocol has helped both to reduce global warming and to protect the ozone layer.
The study concludes that additional climate benefits of significance in comparison to the
Kyoto Protocol reduction target could be achieved by new actions under the Montreal
Protocol.
Download article
Persistent Organic Pollutants in the Mediterranean Sea (05/07/07)
Spanish researches have recently assessed the contamination of the Mediterranean Sea by
certain Persistent Organic Pollutants using sediment concentrations as environmental
indicators. The results show a decreasing temporal trend in concentrations and that
chemical contamination mainly originates from land-based sources. Hot spots are usually
located along the northern coast-line. The authors also highlight important gaps of
knowledge and the need for more monitoring programmes to be set up in many riparian
countries.
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Synthetic Hormones released in Waters could lead to Fish Extinctions (28/06/07)
Canadian and American scientists have recently performed a 7-year whole-lake experiment
to assess the consequences of municipal wastewater releases on aquatic ecosystems.
They have shown that the synthetic estrogen contained in these effluents from the use of
the birth control pill caused the immediate feminisation of male fish, and then a collapse of
the population only 1 year after the low-level and chronic exposure of the fish to these
hormones began.
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Environmental Risk Factors for Parkinson's Disease (21/06/07)
A recent study by European researchers shows important evidence that exposure to
pesticides increases the risk of Parkinson?s disease. The results of this study highlight the
importance of addressing the actual use phase of the pesticides? life-cycle in order to
minimize human exposure and reduce the impacts on the environment.
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Sea mussels as Marine Pollution Sensors in the Mediterranean Sea (21/06/07)
In a recent study, a Spanish team of scientists conducted a bio-monitoring survey on sea
mussels along North West Mediterranean shores. By assessing the mussels' health by
means of various biochemical tests, their results prove that there are significant correlations
between environmental pollution and damage to mussels? health. This confirms that
mussels may provide relevant data for assessing the biological impacts of environmental
pollution in the Mediterranean Sea and that they may serve as reliable early warning
signals.
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Economical Impacts of REACh for New Member States (14/06/07)
European researchers have recently investigated the potential impact of REACh on the
public and private sector in new Member States. They have shown that the implementation
of the "Acquis Communautaire" is a good starting point for REACh in these countries. From
the viewpoint of the European chemical sector, profits could fall by up to 60% for single
firms whereas, for the sector as a whole, such a negative impact is not demonstrated.
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Mercury Accumulation and Persistence in River Ecosystems (24/05/07)
Slovenian researchers have recently investigated the mercury content in aquatic organisms
in a river located next to a former mine. They have shown that the accumulation of toxic
mercury increases with the position in the food chain of the studied organisms. This study
also highlights the great persistence of mercury in the aquatic environment, as the mining
activities ceased more than 10 years ago. The findings of this study enhance our
understanding of mercury cycles in river ecosystems.
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Transportation of Pesticides from Rural to Urban Areas (16/05/07)
French researchers have recently investigated to what extent pesticides are detected in the
atmosphere and their capacity to be transported over long distances. Their experiments
show that pesticides can enter the atmosphere and thus be transported over more than 10
km and can thus be found in urban areas. This could, in turn, damage human health.
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Pollutants in the Environment: Mobility and Fate (03/05/07)
European researchers have recently investigated the fate of persistent organic pollutants in
five European river basins. They found that the deposition rate of atmospheric organic
pollutants varies by a factor of 12 from one site to another. Moreover, in spite of the ban on
some pesticides 5 years ago, some of the pollutants they contain are still found in soils at
significant levels. Overall, this study provides new information on the mobility of pollutants
within the environment, which could be useful for sustainable river basin management.
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Evaluating Mid to Long-Term Impacts of Chemicals on Marine Communities (22/03/07)
It is well known that some chemicals may induce reproductive disorders in marine
organisms. In a recent study, a European team of scientists investigated the effects of
different levels of sexual abnormality that could be induced by contaminants on the
population dynamics of a marine shrimp. Depending on the sex ratios and abnormalities,
they have proved that some communities could be extinct within 2 to 10 years. This
confirms the urgent need for a better understanding of the mid to long-term effects of
chemicals when released into the marine environment, in order to set up an efficient
legislative framework.
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How to protect Waterbirds from Lead Shot Poisoning? (22/03/07)
Spanish researchers have recently quantified the density of lead shot in several wetlands
in Andalusia as well as the quantities of ingested shots in nine bird species in order to
assess to what extent shots from hunting are found in birds. The results show that the
quantity of lead shots found in birds declined when local hunting restrictions were
enforced. However, the authors suggest that to be more efficient, hunting restrictions
should be implemented on a broader geographic scale, in order to protect migratory
species better. In addition, measures to protect humans from secondary lead ingestion
from these poisoned birds should also be considered.
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New Method to remove Arsenic from Soils (08/03/07)
Indian researchers have recently shown that siderophores are efficient washing agents that can remove arsenic from contaminated soils. These small organic compounds secreted by micro-organisms are able to remove up to 92.8% of arsenic in contaminated soils after 5 washings. These findings could be useful for removing this toxic chemical from soils in industrial areas where it may be discharged.
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Forest Fires worsen Mercury Contamination in Fish (01/03/07)
Canadian researchers have recently investigated the correlation between forest fires and
abnormally high toxic mercury concentration in fish from lakes of partially burnt
catchments. They have shown that forest fires are responsible for a 5-fold increase in
mercury accumulation in some fish species, which could cause serious health problems
for consumers. These results provide new insights into the possible consequences of
forest fires on the persistence of toxic substances in aquatic systems.
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Good Land Management may enhance Soil Depollution (22/02/07)
German researchers have recently studied the effect of land management practices on
the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus contents from heathlands. They have shown that
sod-cutting allows for a complete removal of nitrogen in soil. Prescribed burning is shown
to be the best practice to limit phosphorus removal, which could be useful in areas where
plant growth is limited by this chemical. Finally, their results highlight the role of combining
several management practices to achieve efficient long-term management.
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Sewage Water Treatment Plants and Fish Reproduction (15/02/07)
Belgian researchers have recently analysed to what extent active substances released by
sewage treatment plants located on polluted rivers impair the reproductive functions of
fish. Their investigation on a Belgian river shows that treatment plants do not
systematically impact fish tissues and endocrinal characteristics. However, the results are
dependent on the site's characteristics and the findings suggest taking into account the
specificity of each site before generalising the negative impacts of such installations.
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How to reduce the Impact of Ammonia Pollution? (14/12/06)
British researchers have recently assessed the efficiency of different land use planning methods in protecting sensitive areas and species from atmospheric ammonia pollution. Measures such as the establishment of tree belts around nature reserves are shown to be a complementary approach to technical abatement measures. The authors conclude that considering the potential nitrogen pollution effects should be part of the planning process for new intensive agricultural developments.
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Risk to Health and the Environment of the Current Use of Lead (16/11/06)
A recent study has analysed the risks of the present uses of lead over time. The results show that the overall emission pattern will be stable in the coming decades. Nevertheless, more attention has to be paid to flows of lead during different waste treatment options. Furthermore, regarding exposure to lead emissions, there is a need for further information and testing of children.
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article
Mercury Contained in Fish may Contribute to Premature Birth (03/11/06)
According to a recent American study, eating too much fish during pregnancy could be linked to high mercury levels in mothers, which in turn could put women at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely. Nevertheless, more research is needed in order to further test the reported association.
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article
Alternative Strategies for Future Control of Antifouling Biocides (12/10/06) A British study has reviewed historical and current developments, occurrence and regulation of antifouling paint biocides and analysed future trends. Some of the most popular biocides have been shown to damage non-targeted organisms while data for the risk assessment of others is still lacking. The legislative measures introduced to regulate the use of booster biocides vary across Europe. New strategies have to be found in order to reduce the possible negative effects of these compounds on marine ecosystems. Download
article
Worldwide Distribution of Persistent Organic Pollutants (28/09/06) A new study carried out by a team of scientists from North America and Europe presents the most comprehensive analysis yet of global concentrations of persistent organic pollutants in the air. The most unexpected results are the high concentrations observed for pesticides banned several decades ago. The results also suggest that, in some cases, the emissions into the air of these compounds were due to possible new uses of the banned pesticides, but also highlight the continuing importance of old sources. Download
article New Measures Proposed to Reduce Release of POPs (14/09/06) A recent report has identified, assessed, and prioritised measures to reduce the unintentional release of Persistent Organic Pollutants into the environment. It points to domestic combustion and road transport as the top candidates for action. Even though existing legislation already offers "a range of efficient instruments" to tackle POP releases, the authors have identified and assessed potential measures to fill existing gaps. Download
article Pesticide DDT?s Polluting Legacy will Last for Many Decades (26/07/06) According to a recent Canadian study, agricultural soils containing residues of DDT, a banned pesticide, will continue to be a source of atmospheric contamination for more than a generation, much longer than previously believed. Download
article Fungi may be Able to Degrade Tough Plastic (20/07/06) A recent American study shows for the first time that any organism, in particular fungi, can degrade phenolic resins, widely used in plastic formulations. The finding is an important first step towards the biodegradation and recycling of these compounds, which are known for their durability and resistance to attack by termites and fungi. Nevertheless, more research is necessary to better understand the mechanisms and controlling factors before it can be widely applied and commercially available. Download
article Do Herbicides Present in Sludge Impact the Soil Ecosystem? (29/06/06) A new French study has reported for the first time the fate of herbicides in soil-plant-water systems when contaminated sewage sludge is applied to agricultural soils. The study concludes that these compounds are persistent, partly mobile and, therefore, could be transferred to surrounding ecosystems and living organisms. Given their potential toxic effects on the soil ecosystem, their concentration in sewage sludge for soil application should be assessed for possible regulation. Download
article Future Applications of Micro-organisms for Cyanide Decontamination (29/06/06) British scientists have recently assessed the current and future use of micro-organisms in a technique known as bioremediation that renders cyanide contamination harmless in water and soil. According to the authors, microbial treatment represents a potentially less expensive and more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional mitigation solutions, but its application needs to be further optimised in order to be competitive and feasible. Download
article Do Flame Retardants Pose a Risk to Health and the Environment? (22/06/06) Recent studies regarding the fate and potential risk to human health and the environment of different brominated flame retardant compounds have produced diverging results. While one of the studies has confirmed the safety of one type of compound, another provides new insights that could have profound implications for public health and for the current and future regulation of another type of flame retardants. Download
article Sewage Effluent Phosphorus - a Major Risk to River Eutrophication (24/05/06) British scientists have examined sources of phosphorus in relation to eutrophication risk in lowland rivers. The results suggest that inputs from sewage/industrial effluents rather than agricultural sources of phosphorus may well provide the most significant risk for river eutrophication, even in rural areas with high agricultural phosphorus inputs. Download
article A New Approach for Risk-based Characterisation of Polluted Soils (24/05/06) A recent study has analysed and interpreted the lead concentrations in urban upper soil in an industrialised city of England in terms of risk to human health. The authors mapped the probability of exceeding risk-based assessment criteria to analyse and interpret the collected surface soil lead concentrations. The study demonstrates that this approach has a valuable role to play in both land-use planning and environmental protection. Download
article Natural Remediation of Soils Polluted with Wood Treatment Chemicals (18/05/06) A recent study explored the applicability of natural remediation using plants in soils polluted with Pentachlorophenol. The results suggest that some plants, in particular poplar and willow, are able to tolerate this pollutant?s presence in soil and enhance its degradation. Therefore, they can be used for the remediation of large volumes of low-level contaminated soil. However, careful management is needed to ensure soil and plant health. Download
article Toxicity Assessment of
Aircraft De-Icer (11/05/06) American scientists
investigated the toxicity of the de-icing and anti-icing chemicals
used to remove ice and snow from aircrafts' surfaces. The results
suggest that the environmental risk of the various aircraft
anti-icing and de-icing components may be more difficult to assess
than previously estimated. Different unknown additives were
identified, some of which could represent a serious threat for the
local environment. Download
article
Organic Farming
Practices Reduce Nitrogen Pollution (06/04/06) A recent
study has compared the levels of water pollution due to nitrogen
resulting from organic, integrated, and conventional farming
practices. The results indicate that organic and integrated
fertilisation practices reduce nitrate pollution. Download
article
European Male Fertility
Affected by POP (16/03/06) European scientists have
investigated the possible negative effects of persistent organic
pollutants on male fertility. The results demonstrate that exposure
to polychlorinated biphenyls has a negative impact on human sperm
integrity in European male populations. Download
article
Pharmaceuticals in the
Environment (09/03/06) A recent literature-review
suggests that pharmaceuticals are omnipresent in Italian aquatic
environments in concentrations close to those that may induce
adverse ecotoxicological effects. Scientists suggest that processes
of waste water treatment could be specifically adjusted to improve
the efficiency of drug abatement in order to mitigate the potential
environmental hazards. Download
article
Evidence of Toxic Effects
of Nanoparticles in Plants (02/03/06) In a recent
experimental study, American scientists have shown that a
nanoparticle, commonly used in industry, could have damaging effects
on plant life by interfering with plant growth. Download
article
New Evidence on Harmful
Effects of POPs (16/02/06) High consumption of fatty
fish from Baltic Sea is the major source of persistent organic
pollutants (POPs) in Sweden. A recent assessment of the links
between blood levels of POPs and the prevalence of diabetes in
Swedish fisherman and their wives provide epidemiological support
that POP exposure may increase risk of diabetes in such high exposed
cohorts. Download
article
Phthalates May Affect
Baby Boys (26/01/06) The results of a recent European
study suggest that exposure to phthalates through lactation can
trigger the reduction of reproductive hormones in baby boys. This
finding supports the hypothesis that the human reproductive organs
may be vulnerable to these ubiquitous environmental
chemicals. Download
article
Towards EU List of
Priority Hazardous Pesticide Mixtures (15/12/05) European
researchers have recently developed a procedure aiming at defining a
list of the most hazardous pesticide mixtures that are likely to
occur in European surface waters. Such a list could be very useful
for the evaluation of the current control measures that are mostly
based on assessments of chemical risks focused on single pure
toxicants. Download
article
Safe Levels of Major Toxins
Unknown (05/12/05) An overview of the epidemiologic data
shows that there is no clearly safe level of exposure to four of the
most common environmental toxins - lead, radon, tobacco smoke and
byproducts of drinking-water disinfection. Download
article
Impacts of Post-2012 Climate Policies on Air Quality (06/12/07)
European researchers have recently analysed the potential air quality co-benefits from different European post-2012 climate policies in Nordic countries. The results suggest that stricter targets and a more ambitious climate change policy will contribute to reduced emissions of air pollutants. On the other hand, expanding the European emissions trading scheme to new sectors might result in a small increase in emissions of air pollutants. A key aspect will be the post-2012 participation of Russia and non-EU Eastern Europe countries in emission trading.
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Towards an Information Society: what Impacts on the Environment? (15/11/07)
Researchers from the United Kingdom have recently observed that scientific assessments of the environmental impacts of Information and Communications Technologies do not converge. They suggest building more predictive models to cope with these discrepancies.
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How will Changes in Climate and Water Demand impact Rivers? (15/11/07)
American researchers have analysed the possible future of dammed and free-flowing rivers given the expected changes in climate and human population. The results suggest that the area in need of management action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and increasing water demand will be much greater for river basins impacted by dams than for those with free-flowing rivers. The authors conclude that the cumulative savings of implementing proactive forms of restoration could be enormous.
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Impacts of the European Carbon Emissions Trade Directive on Industry (08/11/07)
A Finnish researcher recently investigated the economic impacts of the European emission trading scheme on energy intensive manufacturing industries. The results show that the total cost impacts remain below 2% of the production value for most industries in the Kyoto period. Nevertheless, this figure may rise considerably in the post-Kyoto phase assuming a more stringent emission reduction target.
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Integrated Effects of Air Pollution and Climate Change on Northern Forests (31/10/07)
Although there are complex chemical and physical interactions between greenhouse gases
(GHG) and air pollutants (AP), they are usually considered as separate issues. In a recent
study, an international team of scientists reviewed the links between GHG and AP and
assessed their interactive effects on northern hemisphere forests. The authors suggest that
the combined effects can significantly differ from the sum of the separate effects and call for
AP and GHG to be addressed simultaneously in order to maximise research, monitoring
and policy efficiency.
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Taxes or Quotas: what is more Efficient to mitigate GHG Emissions? (31/10/07)
Italian researchers have recently evaluated the cost-effectiveness of measures to mitigate
greenhouse gas emissions in the European agro-forestry sector. From a technical
viewpoint, the abatement of methane emissions appeared more cost efficient than carbon
sequestration or biofuel production. As for policy measures, taxes seem to lead to cheaper
solutions than quotas.
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A Sustainable World Energy Perspective (18/10/07)
A European team of scientists has recently developed a scenario of future energy demand and supply by 2050 that complies with a maximum global average temperature increase of 2°C by 2050. Their results suggest that by that time, renewable energies could provide half the world energy needs. Developing countries could stabilise their CO 2 emissions without jeopardising economic growth while OECD countries will be able to reduce their emissions by up to 80%.
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Research to Develop New Policies for Carbon Sequestration Technology (04/10/07)
In a recent study, American scientists analysed the research areas that can support the
development of regulatory and legal frameworks to ensure the safe implementation of
carbon capture and sequestration. A better understanding of the magnitude and
mechanisms of potential leakage as well as the development of monitoring, mitigation and
remediation methods are essential for the large scale deployment of this technology.
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Major Changes in Investment Patterns needed to face Climate Change (04/10/07)
According to a recent report by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change, addressing climate change in the next 25 years will require significant changes in
the patterns of investments and financial flows.
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EU Structural Funds for Promoting a Sustainable Energy Sector (27/09/07)
Lithuanian researchers have investigated the role of public financial support, primarily under EU Cohesion policy, i.e. the EU Structural Funds, in overcoming market failures and barriers to the use of renewable energy sources and the improvement of energy efficiency. They have shown that public funding could be helpful in new Member States, provided the draft operational 2007-2013 programmes submitted for approval are improved.
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Factors influencing Adaptive Capacity of European Farmers to Climate Change (20/09/07)
Dutch researchers have recently analysed farm performance in Europe under different climatic and management conditions in order to improve understanding of the adaptive capacity of farms. Farm characteristics such as farm size, intensity and land use are found to be good indicators of adaptive capacity as they influence climate impacts on crop yields and farmers? income.
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Climate Change Mitigation - Trade-offs between Land Uses (13/09/07)
Recent research has demonstrated that using biofuels for transport is not the best use of land if climate change is to be mitigated. Compared to the production of biofuels from crops, reforestation saves much more carbon. Scientists suggest that to mitigate the impacts of CO 2 emissions it may be better to focus on increasing the efficiency of fossil fuel use, conserving existing forests and restoring natural forests rather than switching to biofuels in the transport sector.
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More frequent heat waves in Europe by 2100 (06/09/07)
In Western Europe, the length of heat waves has doubled and the frequency of hot days
has almost tripled since 1880, according to a recent study by an international team of
scientists. Furthermore, the study, which uses more accurate data sets than previous
studies, shows that earlier assessments of daily summer temperatures might have
underestimated changes in heat wave events by about 30%.
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Co-benefits of the Montreal Protocol (06/09/07)
According to research led by the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, the
Montreal Protocol has helped both to reduce global warming and to protect the ozone layer.
The study concludes that additional climate benefits of significance in comparison to the
Kyoto Protocol reduction target could be achieved by new actions under the Montreal
Protocol.
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Opportunities and barriers for Beneficial Nanotechnologies (06/09/07)
United Kingdom consultants, Oakdene Hollins, have recently analysed the opportunities and
potential obstacles to adoption of a number of environmentally beneficial nanotechnologies.
The authors conclude that public procurement and policy could be used to promote
environmentally beneficial nanotechnologies, which are estimated to be able to reduce up to
20% of greenhouse gases emitted by the United Kingdom by 2050.
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How Climate Change impacts Employment (26/07/07)
A recent study commissioned by the European Commission reveals that climate change will
have unprecedented consequences on employment in various sectors of Europe?s
economy. However, global warming will also create business opportunities in sectors such
as transport and construction. Overall, the authors call for more coherence between climate
and employment policies.
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Wind energy - Status and Trends (26/07/07)
Installed wind energy has been increasing rapidly worldwide over the last 5 years and now
accounts for up to 3% of electricity consumption in Europe. In a recent study, a British
researcher investigated the status and trends of wind energy. The author outlines that wind
energy is an economic, environmentally friendly and mature technology capable of
contributing to a balanced power supply. Though most wind energy development and
growth has been focused in Europe, this situation is likely to change over the next 5 to 10
years.
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Human Activity Impacts Carbon Cycles in Forests (19/07/07)
According to a recent study by an international team of researchers, human activities are
having a major impact on the carbon balance of forests in the Northern hemisphere. In
particular, the sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide by these forests is found to be
driven mainly by nitrogen input from anthropogenic sources.
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Soil Erosion under Climate Change Scenarios in Central Europe (19/07/07)
A European team of scientists has recently modelled soil losses on traditional and
conservation sugar beet cultivation systems in Central Europe under projected precipitation
changes induced by climate change. Climatic simulations predicted strong seasonal shifts in
precipitation which resulted in a net decline of soil losses in conservation systems by 11% to
24%. These results highlight the importance of seasonal change in climatic parameters and
the high potential of adaptive land-use management for climate change response strategies.
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Future Trends of Carbon Uptake from Land-use Change (12/07/07)
European researchers have recently investigated the possible changes in terrestrial carbon
storage in Europe under projected climate and land-use changes. They conclude that the
carbon uptake capacity of the biosphere is likely to be small compared to projected
European fossil fuel emissions. The results might be useful when considering measures to
maximise carbon storage in terrestrial ecosystems to meet the Kyoto targets and other
climate mitigation policies.
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Climate Change impacts on Human Health (12/07/07)
An American researcher recently reviewed the available scientific evidence of the effect of
climate on diseases affecting humans. He notes that the potential for outbreaks of certain
diseases will be increased with climate change. Nevertheless, he suggests that, by
changing our sensitivity and even adaptive capacity, the impacts of climate mediated
diseases could be mitigated.
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Carbon Sequestration in Forests: What Prospects? (05/07/07)
European researchers have recently reviewed the scientific evidence of modifications to
carbon storage in forests in response to climate and land-use changes. On one hand,
increased temperatures and CO 2 concentrations in the air are likely to increase the growth
rate of trees, thereby increasing the quantity of carbon stored. On the other hand, the
storage capacity of forests has been shown to be reaching its limits. Overall, these elements
should be taken into account in forest management practices, as they have an impact on
forest carbon sequestration.
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Buildings and Climate Change: Current Status, Challenges and Opportunities (28/06/07)
Worldwide, 30% to 40% of all primary energy is used in buildings. Patterns of energy
consumption are environmentally intensive and are not expected to change in the near
future without proper policy interventions and technological improvement. In this context, the
United Nation Environment Programme (UNEP) has recently published its conclusions on
climate change and buildings. While significant improvement opportunities exist in the
building sector, there are major challenges to be met, both in low and high income
countries.
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Climate Change and Security Risks (28/06/07)
In a recent report, German researchers have reviewed scientific evidence of the likely
consequences of climate change. They highlight that, in addition to the risks for biodiversity,
climate change is also predicted to increase security risks between countries. They suggest
that the European Union should reinforce its position, especially within the context of the
Kyoto Protocol and should support developing countries.
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Energy-Crops: a competitive Resource? (21/06/07)
Irish researchers have recently investigated the financial competitiveness of using energy-crops
for electricity and heat production in Ireland. Compared to peat, energy crop co-firing
becomes competitive at a CO 2 allowance price of 16? per tonne. Regarding domestic and
commercial heating, their results show that investing in wood-boilers is economically
profitable, saving up to 720? per year in domestic buildings.
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Does Greening Public Procurement contravene Trade Laws? (14/06/07)
Dutch researchers have investigated to what extent promoting the greening of public
procurement complies with international and European trade laws. Their results show that,
at European level and in the context of international trade law, legislative requirements do
not hinder climate-friendly procurement, as long as public authorities clearly specify the
products and services they intend to purchase. Overall, they suggest that green public
procurement is a useful tool in the endeavour to mitigate climate change.
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How the EU Emission Trading Scheme impacts Competitiveness (31/05/07)
In the context of the highly debated EU Emission Trading Scheme, English researchers
have investigated the economic impacts of this scheme on firms and consumers. They have
shown that in addition to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, this scheme enables
firms to increase their profits because they pass the costs of the scheme on to the
consumer, leading to an increase in product prices.
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Linking Air Quality and Climate Change Mitigation Strategies (24/05/07)
Governments are currently developing policies to improve air quality in order to safeguard human health
and sensitive ecosystems. In parallel, reducing emissions causing climate change is a key priority. In their
last report, the British Air Quality Expert Group emphasized the need to run policies with an integrated
perspective due to the complex linkages between air quality strategies and climate change. The expert
group calls for the setting up of an efficient air quality strategy framework at European, national and regional
levels. Interactions between air quality and climate change need to be taken into account in order to
maximize a win-win situation.
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Regulating International Aviation and Shipping Emissions (16/05/07)
A recent Dutch report analyses different allocation options for including international aviation
and shipping emissions in a post-2012 climate mitigation regime. The authors conclude that
including these so-called bunker emissions in national/regional reduction targets is more
cost-effective than excluding them, or regulating them via sector-specific policies.
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Ensuring the Sustainability of Bio-Energy Markets (16/05/07)
Despite its promising prospects, the emerging bio-energy market needs to be managed in order to ensure
its sustainability. In a recent study, a Dutch team of scientists has analyzed several governance systems
and concludes that the best governance system should consist of two pillars: a bio-energy labeling
organization and an international agreement on bio-energy. A facilitative government, professional
monitoring and progressive certification combined with price premiums are other key elements of this
governance system.
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Improving the Implementation of the Emission Trading Directive (10/05/07)
According to a recent report by the European Environment Agency on the implementation of the Emission Trading Directive, competitiveness issues due to the application of the directive are one of the concerns raised by Member States. The report concludes that further alignment of operating procedures of the Emissions Trading Scheme is still possible.
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Mussels and Oysters Threatened by Ocean Acidification (03/05/07)
According to a recent study by French and Dutch researchers, ocean acidification resulting
from human emissions of carbon dioxide is seriously threatening edible shellfish such as
mussels and oysters. The predicted impacts on the ability of these species to produce their
shells as a result of ocean acidification may have important consequences on the
biodiversity and functioning of coastal ecosystems and potentially lead to substantial
economic losses.
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Carbon Capture and Storage: how is it perceived in Europe? (26/04/07)
Carbon capture and storage is one of the solutions that can be used to decrease
concentrations of CO 2 in the atmosphere. An EU-funded survey of about 500 stakeholders
in Europe was recently performed in order to find out the current acceptance and perception
of such storage technologies. The results show that about three quarters of the respondents
think that carbon capture and storage is definitely or probably necessary to achieve deep
reductions in CO 2.
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Do Energy Labels on Buildings meet Expectations? (19/04/07)
Danish and Belgian researchers have recently interviewed homeowners to understand if
energy labels on their homes provide them with good incentives to reduce their energy
consumption. The survey reveals that in addition to the payback time of renovation, relevant
criteria that homeowners take into account in their investment decisions are aesthetic,
convenience as well as ideas and habits of all the persons connected to the renovation
project. The authors suggest that substituting information on payback time with information
on cost of investment could enhance the effectiveness of the labelling system.
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Prospective Scenarios for Renewable Energies and Carbon Capture and Storage (29/03/07)
A German team of scientists has recently compared the structural, economic and
environmental aspects of carbon capture and storage (CCS) with renewable energy
technologies. Even if CCS technologies emit more carbon dioxide than generally assumed
and considerably more than renewables, CCS could lead to a significant absolute reduction
of greenhouse gas emissions within the electricity supply system. However, depending on
market forces, renewables could develop faster and become cheaper.
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Reducing CO2 Emissions in the Transport Sector (29/03/07)
A recent paper has reviewed ways in which technological and behavioural change can
reduce the consumption of fossil fuels and, therefore, greenhouse gas emissions, in the
transport sector. The author concludes that even though technology improvements are
indispensable to meeting the long-term CO 2 targets, in the short term, policies to change
behaviour and travel habits are critical if the benefits of technological options are to be
achieved.
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Vulnerability Assessments could help Sustainable Development (29/03/07)
Researchers have recently developed a method to assess which regions in Europe may be
the most vulnerable to a range of projected climate and land use changes. This
vulnerability approach could serve as a basis for decision-making in a sustainable
development perspective.
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Facing Impacts of Climate Change on Water Resources (22/03/07)
A recent report by the European Environment Agency reviews the challenges facing
Europe to adapt to the impacts of climate change on water resources. The report
concludes that countries are aware of these impacts and have started to adapt to them but
that much remains to be done.
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How to boost Wind Power Development (22/03/07)
Swedish scientists have recently analysed the potential for future wind power development in
Sweden. They describe the main obstacles to the expansion of windmills and the
measures that could be implemented to face such difficulties. In particular, they highlight the
importance of evaluating the institutional and legal framework governing wind power
development before new or modified policy instruments are implemented. They conclude that
a clear political commitment is necessary in order to reduce the legal and policy-related
uncertainties associated with wind power investment.
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Impacts of Climate Warming on Plant Reproduction (15/03/07)
Researchers have recently investigated the consequences of a warmer climate on the
plant community. The results show that the timing of periodic events such as flowering is
affected by warmer temperatures. As a consequence, new competitive relationships
between plant species could arise, which in turn may diminish their reproductive capacity.
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How to enhance Climate Change Communication in Urban Areas (15/03/07)
Cities are constantly expanding, both in terms of space and population, requiring urban
residents and decision-makers to make important land use and energy-related decisions.
Cities have therefore become strategic places for intervention in the fight against
emissions and for adapting to the impacts of climate change. This study gives an insight
into the difficulties encountered by communicators as they try to convince various
audiences to change their way of life and explains how they must adapt their approach in
line with the residents they are targeting.
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The Environmental Balance Sheet of Bioenergy Systems (08/03/07)
In response to the increased need for renewable energies, growing biomass to serve as
input into energy generating processes is of significant interest. However, these so called
bioenergy systems are believed to deplete soil carbon stocks. An international team of
scientists have recently proven that even if carbon loss is observed, it only occurs under
specific conditions and is negligible compared to the benefits accrued from mitigating
greenhouse gases by avoiding fossil fuel emissions. This confirms the environmental
benefits of alternative energy producing systems based on biomass.
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Would warmer Oceans remain productive? (01/03/07)
American researchers have recently investigated the relationship between ocean
temperature and ocean productivity. Using satellite data, they have assessed that under
warmer ocean temperatures, phytoplankton strongly decrease. As these micro-organisms
are the first level of the food chain, the productivity of oceans is strongly affected. These
findings provide new insights into the potential risks for food chains with a warmer climate,
including for human beings as the last level of these chains.
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Forest Fires worsen Mercury Contamination in Fish (01/03/07)
Canadian researchers have recently investigated the correlation between forest fires and
abnormally high toxic mercury concentration in fish from lakes of partially burnt
catchments. They have shown that forest fires are responsible for a 5-fold increase in
mercury accumulation in some fish species, which could cause serious health problems
for consumers. These results provide new insights into the possible consequences of
forest fires on the persistence of toxic substances in aquatic systems.
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Possible Effects of Global Climate Change on Trees (22/02/07)
European researchers have recently reviewed available scientific evidence of the effects
of future climate change on European beech trees. While trees could benefit from an
increased concentration of CO 2 in the atmosphere, it is also predicted that they will suffer
greatly from an expected intensification of droughts and flooding. These results underline
the need to take all these effects into account when estimating the overall reaction of
plants to a changing climate.
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Possible Effects of Global Warming on Air Pollution (15/02/07)
Recently, Swedish researchers have investigated how climate changes could affect air
pollution in Europe. They found that part of the increase in surface ozone concentration
observed over Europe in the last decade could be due to changes in meteorology. They
conclude that future air pollution control strategies should take into consideration future
climate change and their effect on the concentration of air pollutants.
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Barriers and Drivers for the Biofuels Industry in Europe (08/02/07)
Recently, a team of researchers have analysed the markets for biofuels in Germany and the
United Kingdom. They observed that the commitment of national governments and excise
duty exemptions or deductions play a crucial role in stimulating the biofuel industry. The
study provides general conclusions for policy-makers that are particularly relevant for the
early stages of a biofuels industry.
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How can Sustainable Development be achieved in Energy Use? (25/01/07)
European researchers have analysed the possible impacts of introducing additional charges
into the price of electricity to reflect the cost of associated environmental and health damage.
The results suggest that this would result in substantial changes in the electrical production
system in favour of the natural gas combined cycle, nuclear power and renewable energy
sources. This measure would also lead to a rapid emission reduction effect for air pollutants
and emittants causing global climate change.
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Abrupt Ice Retreat in the Arctic Possible by 2040 (18/01/07)
According to a recently published study, the recent retreat of Arctic sea ice could
accelerate so rapidly that the Arctic Ocean could become nearly ice-free during
summertime as early as 2040. Nevertheless, the authors highlight that reductions of future
greenhouse gas emissions could reduce the probability and the severity of the predicted
events.
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Birds: good Indicators of the Effects of Climate Change (18/01/07)
German researchers have recently examined whether climate change had an impact on
European bird communities between the mid 70s and the 90s. Results show that observed
changes in the proportion of migrant and resident birds inside communities can be explained
up to 69% by models of climate change impacts on biodiversity.
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Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in European Dairy Farming (11/01/07)
Recently, European researchers have analysed the potential of different options for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from dairy production in Europe. The most cost-efficient measures are those that simultaneously reduce emissions of several greenhouse gases from the whole production chain, such as biogas production. The researchers identified considerable possibilities for emissions reduction in the dairy farming industry.
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Priorities for Energy Conservation Measures in Buildings (21/12/06)
According to a recent Greek study on potential energy savings in the building sector, the most effective energy conservation measures include the insulation of external walls, weather proofing or sealing of openings, and the regular maintenance of central heating boilers. The results also show that efforts to improve energy efficiency in residential buildings can result in considerable reductions in CO 2 emissions and thus play a key role in meeting the EU target of reducing emissions in accordance with the Kyoto Protocol.
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Species Evolution will not prevent Extinctions caused by Global Warming (14/12/06)
A recent review of plant and animal species highlights their dramatic responses to climate change. Global warming is seen to be responsible for habitat and food resources moving or declining, leading to species migration and extinction. The results of the study suggest that evolution will not counterbalance the consequences of future global warming on species extinction.
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Bioenergy: an Essential Resource in Future Energy Portfolios (14/12/06)
A recent review of bioenergy highlights the role of energy produced from wood, crops and biomass residues in contributing to future reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Results suggest that bioenergy could make significant contributions to world energy consumption in 2050, with an increasing share of bioenergy coming from energy crops. Energy use from biomass could also fill up to 20% of the gap between projected greenhouse gas emissions and those required for a stabilisation of atmospheric CO 2 concentrations at a targeted 550 parts per million, the threshold above which global warming may have serious consequences.
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Recent Global Stabilisation of Atmospheric Methane (07/12/06)
American researchers have found that the levels of atmospheric methane, a greenhouse gas that also contributes to the formation of tropospheric ozone, have stayed nearly flat for the last seven years, after more than two decades of continuous increase. Even though there is no reason to believe that methane levels will remain stable in the future, the results suggest that methane concentrations can be controlled.
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Climate Change may have a Rapid Effect on Ocean Circulations (30/11/06)
American researchers have provided new evidence from the last ice age that climate change can have a rapid effect on the chemistry and circulations of our oceans. The results suggest that global warming and higher rainfall, the likely consequences of climate change, could have severe effects on circulation in the north Atlantic, which currently keeps Europe relatively temperate.
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article
Climate Change may affect Delivery of WFD objectives (23/11/06)
A recent British study has assessed the main risks climate change poses to delivery of the Water Framework Directive objectives. The study shows that climate change is likely to put additional pressure on many water bodies both directly through changing flow and temperatures, and indirectly by affecting other pressures such as land management and use. However, the authors conclude that the Directive provides new opportunities for developing climate change adaptation policies.
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article
New Insights into how to achieve Sustainable Holiday Travel (16/11/06)
A recent study identifies long-haul travellers as responsible for more than 80% of the greenhouse gas emissions associated with holiday travel, even though they represent the smallest travel group. This is due to the fact that those who travel to more distant destinations also appear to travel more often and use air travel for more than 60% of their trips. Long-haul travellers are therefore the group with the greatest potential for reducing the environmental impact of holiday travel.
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article
Will Europe Meet the Kyoto Protocol Emission Targets? (09/11/06)
The European Environment Agency has published the results of a recent study on past and projected greenhouse gas emissions in Europe. It concludes that, in the pre-2004 EU Member States, only the combined effect of existing and planned domestic policy measures, the Kyoto Mechanisms, and carbon sinks would bring greenhouse gas emissions down to 8% below the base year level by 2010, as required by the Kyoto Protocol. Nevertheless, progress towards achieving the emission targets is not the same in all countries and seven countries project they will not attain their targets.
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article
The Role of Policy in Facilitating Adaptation to Climate Change (09/11/06)
European researchers have recently analysed the vulnerability of agricultural land use and species to climate change. The results suggest that the impacts of climate change in the agricultural sector and the consequent adaptation could have significant effects on the ability of species to adapt to climate change. It is therefore important to assess the vulnerability of both agriculture and species if appropriate policy measures are to be implemented in response to climate change.
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article
Wood-framed Construction Requires Less Energy and Emits Less CO2 (26/10/06) Swedish and Finnish scientists have developed and used a new methodology to compare the net carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption of concrete and wood framed buildings. The results suggest that increasing the proportion of wood-based building materials would lower the energy demand and lead to a net reduction of CO 2 emissions relative to concrete materials. The recovery of residues resulting from the production of the wood building material and their utilisation in energy supply systems would increase such benefits. Download
article
Environmental Impacts of Hydrogen-based Energy Systems (19/10/06) A new British study suggests that future hydrogen-based energy systems may still disrupt climate, as hydrogen is a secondary greenhouse gas. Unless leakage from the synthesis and use of hydrogen is carefully controlled, the expected improvement in global warming gained from replacing fossil fuel-based energy systems would not be fully realised. Download
article
Global Temperatures Reaching Record Levels (12/10/06) A recent study by NASA climatologists has found that the current world temperature is reaching a level that has not been seen in thousands of years. The authors conclude that global warming of more than 1°C, relative to 2000, would constitute a ?dangerous? climate change, likely to generate irreversible changes in our planet. Download
article
Trees Respond Slower to Climate Change that Previously Predicted (12/10/06) Results from a recent American study suggest that trees cannot migrate in response to climate change as quickly as was previously believed. This may have important implications in the future. As different species of trees may not be able to adapt to changing conditions under global warming, many species could become extinct. Download
article
Is Sewage Sludge a Fuel or a Waste? (05/10/06) In the context of current UK energy and waste management policy, British scientists have analysed different technology scenarios permitting the co-combustion of sewage sludge. The results suggest that sewage sludge can be considered as a fuel, since all the scenarios studied provided net energy gains. However, the lack of a clear legal definition of what waste actually is, affects the development of sustainable sewage sludge management strategies. Download
article
Deep-Sea Sediments - an Innovative Solution for Storing CO2 Safely (05/10/06) American scientists have recently evaluated the feasibility of injecting man-made carbon dioxide into deep-sea sediments. They show that this innovative solution could provide virtually permanent, unlimited and safe storage for this gas, a major driver of global climate change in the last decades. Download
article Severe Impacts of Climate Change on Key Ecosystems Worldwide (28/09/06) British scientists have recently assessed the impacts that climate change could have on key ecosystems. The results suggest that rising temperatures are likely to increase the risk of forest fires, droughts and flooding over the next two centuries in many parts of the world, even if greenhouse gas emissions were to cease immediately. Download
article Conclusive Proof that Spring is Arriving Earlier across Europe (21/09/06) A group of European scientists have recently presented conclusive evidence that climate change is affecting the seasons. They found that spring is starting earlier across Europe than it did 30 years ago, a trend that closely matches national warming levels measured across the continent. Download
article Rising Sea Levels Threaten Pacific Ocean Mangroves (14/09/06) According to a recent study by the UN Environmental Programme, urgent action is required to protect Pacific Ocean mangroves from the impacts of rising sea levels, linked to global warming. The results of the report indicate that, by the end of the century, some of the islands in the region could lose half of their mangroves. Download
article Alpine Glaciers May Disappear within the Coming Decades (07/09/06) Swiss researchers forecast that Alpine glaciers could all but disappear or experience significant loss within this century if global warming is not halted. Results show that the Alps could lose up to 80% of their glacier cover if summer air temperatures rise by 3°C and become almost completely ice-free if temperatures increase by 5°C. Such extreme glacier depletion could have severe consequences on the hydrological cycle, water management, tourism and natural hazards. Download
article Incorporating Renewable Energy in Energy Performance Regulations (26/07/06) A recent study concludes that energy performance regulations, as required by the European Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings, offer a perfect opportunity for encouraging the use of renewable energy sources. A combination of regulatory, financial and information policies within the energy performance regulations are proposed to introduce and promote renewable energy. Download
article New Insights about Future Crop Production under Climate Change (26/07/06) A new study concludes that the substantial increase in future crop productivity under rising carbon dioxide levels, predicted by earlier greenhouse and other enclosed test condition studies, may be much smaller in open-air fields. This positive effect was expected to offset the detrimental effects of rising temperatures and falling soil moisture under climate change. This work now suggests that this is unlikely. Scientists warn that global food supplies could be seriously affected without changes in production strategies. Download
article Achieving Environmental Integration within the Energy Sector (20/07/06) According to a recent report by the European Environment Agency, environmental pressure from energy production in Europe was generally reduced between 1990 and 2003 in Europe. However, this positive trend has slowed down since 1999. More efforts are therefore required to achieve the secure, competitive and environmentally sustainable supply of energy in Europe. The introduction of technological advances and reduced consumption will play a major role in meeting this objective. Download
article Climate Change May Threaten Amphibians and Reptiles in Europe (20/07/06) A recent study by European researchers has concluded that the impact of rising temperatures on amphibian and reptile species in Europe may be less damaging than previously predicted. Nevertheless, the ability of these animals to cope with increasing temperatures might depend on the availability of water and on their capacity to adapt by colonising new habitats that will become available with climate change. Due to the increased aridity and stress on water resources, the most worrisome decline is expected in southwest Europe. Download
article Minimizing the Climate Impact of Aviation (13/07/06) A recent British study has analysed the most important factors influencing the warming effect on climate from condensation trails, formed from the water vapour emitted by aircrafts at high altitude. The results of the study suggest that shifting air traffic from night-time to daytime may help to minimize the climate effect of aircraft condensation trails, thus reducing the climate impact of aviation. Download
article Ecological Restoration Requires New Approaches upon Global Warming (13/07/06) A recent study has examined the possible implications of global climate change for ecological restoration. The authors conclude that traditional restoration methods may not always be applicable in the future. New approaches that take into account the implications of a changing environment are therefore required. Download
article A New Policy Framework to Ensure Sustainable Biomass Production (06/07/06) A recent report by the European Environment Agency has assessed how much biomass could technically be available for energy production in Europe without increasing pressures on the environment. It concluded that Europe could produce sufficient biomass to meet its renewable energy target without harming the environment. However, this would require an appropriate policy framework. Download
article Implications of EU Enlargement on the CO2 Emissions Targets (06/07/06) According to a recent study, the enlargement of the EU is beneficial to economic welfare and does not necessarily increase emissions of greenhouse gases. Furthermore, it offers many opportunities to improve the allocation of production factors in Europe, which could have a beneficial impact on the environment in general. However, the implementation of proper environmental policies would be a definite prerequisite. Download
article Positive Side-effect of Climate Change Policies on Air Quality (29/06/06) According to a recent study by the European Environment Agency, tackling climate change in Europe through climate change policies could make a substantial contribution to improving air quality as well. The predicted additional benefits include the improvement of Europe's air quality, a fall in premature deaths associated with air pollution, and the saving of up to 10 EUR billion annually in air pollution control costs by 2030. Download
article Potential Risks of Underground CO2 Storage (29/06/06) A recent study has reviewed current knowledge and gaps in knowledge regarding the health, environmental and safety risks of underground CO 2 storage. The study concludes that although different research activities are currently being undertaken, it is expected that further research will be necessary to provide enough data for a thorough risk assessment. The main objectives of future research include impacts on marine ecosystems and leakage of CO 2. Download
article New Policy Measures Needed to Reduce Energy Use in the Home (22/06/06) A recent Swedish study has analysed which current behavioural patterns regarding residential energy reduction are efficient and which need to be improved. Policy instruments to change inefficient residential energy behaviour have also been identified. They include a combination of information, economic and administrative measures, and more user-friendly technologies. Download
article Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change May be Overestimated (15/06/06) Norwegian researchers have recently analysed the wider social impacts of climate change in Europe. They have questioned the current complacency regarding climate change impacts, vulnerability, and ability to adapt in Europe. The study concluded that greater attention needs to be paid to the social context and consequences of climate change, and to possible adaptation strategies. Download
article Global Warming May Have Damaged Coral Reefs Forever (15/06/06) A recent study has shown for the first time the long-term impact of sea temperature rises on reef coral and fish communities. The results suggest that global warming may have had a more devastating effect on some of the world?s finest coral reefs than previously assumed. Download
article African Ice Caps Will Soon Disappear due to Global Warming (08/06/06) East African equatorial glaciers are receding rapidly and will disappear within the next two decades according to a group of scientists that recently surveyed ice cover for the first time in a decade. The study suggests that the increased air temperature resulting from global warming is the main driving force. The loss of these glaciers could have serious consequences for local economies and ecosystems. Download
article Fragrance from Pine Forests Helps to Slow Climate Change (08/06/06) European researchers have concluded that trees in the boreal forest are important contributors to the formation of natural aerosol particles, which are believed to have a substantial cooling effect on climate, thus slowing global warming. Their contribution should be considered in climate change models in order to make more accurate predictions of our future climate. Download
article Ozone-sulphate Interaction Influences Climate Change (01/06/06) American scientists have explored the interaction between ozone and sulphate and its influence on climate. Results suggest that, by 2030, increased ozone precursors? emissions could lead to large increases in both ozone and sulphate surface air pollution in Asia, thus contributing up to 20% to the sulphate cooling effects on climate for that region relative to the present day. Download
article Antarctic Birds Affected by Climate Change (01/06/06) Antarctic seabirds may be breeding later in response to climate change, according to a new study. Results indicated that some bird species are arriving at their colonies an average of nine days later and laying eggs on average two days later than they did in the 1950s. These results suggest that Antarctic seabirds are already responding to environmental changes. Download
article Nitrogen Limitation Restricts CO2 Absorption by Trees (24/05/06) New research suggests that trees may not be able to limit climate change by storing rising atmospheric CO 2 as was previously believed. Limited availability of nitrogen in the soil, which will become more common as atmospheric CO 2 levels rise, may inhibit plant growth, which in turn would affect plants' accumulation of atmospheric CO 2. Atmospheric CO 2 levels may therefore rise even faster than anticipated. Download
article Human Activity Changes Atmosphere Circulation (24/05/06) For the first time, a study has provided evidence that human activity is altering the circulation of the tropical atmosphere through global warming. The results suggest that the principal overturning of winds that drives climate and ocean behaviour across the tropical Pacific ocean is slowing down. Variations in its intensity and structure may affect climate around the globe. Download
article Cropland Management Changes Affect Climate Change (18/05/06) The sign and magnitude of possible impacts of past and future crop management practices on climate change have been recently analysed by a group of American scientists. Current trends in crop management such as increased irrigation and crop productivity and less tillage of the land may have a profound effect on climate at the local and global scale. Download
article Changes in the Global Water Cycle Linked to Global Warming (18/05/06) An American scientist has recently explored the possible link between global warming and the intensification of the global water cycle by reviewing the current state of science regarding historical trends in hydrologic variables. The results of this analysis suggest that global warming may have indeed intensified the global water cycle over the course of the 20th century. Download
article Global Warming Threatens
Planet?s Biodiversity (11/05/06) A recent study has
assessed the magnitude of the threat of the global warming to
terrestrial biodiversity at the global scale using vegetation
models. The results suggest that, by the end of this century, the
extinction rates of terrestrial plant and animal species caused by
global warming, in some cases could equal or even exceed those due
to deforestation in some tropical hotspots. Download
article
Energy Rating Systems in
Europe (04/05/06) A new study analysed the various
certification systems for good energy performance of buildings now
running in the European countries under the EU Directive 2002/91/EC.
Only six member States have energy rating systems covering the
overall energy consumption by buildings. Denmark?s energy rating
system is considered to be the most complete. Download
article
Improved Estimates of
Precipitation Extremes in Europe (27/04/06) A recent
Swiss study has quantified the expected changes in exceptionally
strong precipitation events over the next 100 years in Europe using
regional European climate models. The results, more accurate than
previously obtained with global models, suggest that extreme
rainfall in Europe may grow stronger and more frequent in the near
future. Download
article
Ecosystem Shift in the
Northern Bering Sea Driven by Climate Change
(20/04/06) A new research has assessed changes in
ecosystems in the Northern Bering Sea in response to climate change.
Results support the evidence of a reorganization of the marine
ecosystems driven by climate changes in the Arctic region. These
changes might have irreversible effects on Arctic marine mammal and
seabirds populations, and commercial and subsistence
fisheries. Download
article
New Sea Level Rise
Projections under Global Warming (06/04/06) British
scientists have investigated sea level rise driven by global
warming. The results suggest a rise of about 0.1 meter in global sea
levels due to melting glaciers and ice caps by 2100. This estimation
is about half as much as originally projected by previous studies.
However, they also highlight that melting of glacial and mountain
areas are accelerating fast, leading to flooding and land slides in
mountainous regions. Download
article
Mitigating Ozone
Pollution with Methane Emission Control (30/03/06) A
recent research has explored the impact of methane mitigation on the
atmospheric levels of ozone, an air pollutant associated with
premature mortality. The results show that a 20% reduction of
current global methane emissions that could be achieved by 2010
could prevent 30,000 premature mortalities globally in 2030.
Download
article
Future Projections of
Land Use in Europe (30/03/06) A European research team
has recently compared several possible climate and socio-economic
scenarios for the prediction of the evolution of land use in Europe.
Despite great variations according to the scenarios used, this study
predicts an increase in the level of European production and a
northward march of arable farming in Europe. Download
article
Alternative Fuels for
Sustainable Mobility (23/03/06) A recent Norwegian study
analyses the implications of alternative fuels policies for
promoting sustainable mobility, by assessing the ecological
footprints of different energy chains. The results suggest that it
would be possible to reduce the ecological footprints of fuels by up
to 75% using alternative fuels and introducing new and conventional
technologies. However, the transport policy needs to include other
measures to meet the requirements of sustainable mobility.
Download
article
European Plant Diversity
is Threatened by Climate Change (16/03/06) An
international research team has investigated into the survival of
various European plant species under four hypothetical climate
change scenarios for the period 2051-2080. Their results suggest a
large risk of species extinction even under the most optimistic
scenario. Download
article
Climate-Linked Epidemic
Hypothesis Confirmed? (16/03/06) New scientific research
finds that the extinction of amphibians associated with epidemic
diseases is tied to global warming. The authors suggest that
temperatures in many highland regions are shifting towards the
optimum growth conditions for amphibian pathogens, thus encouraging
disease outbreaks. Download
article
Economic Implications of
the Kyoto Protocol (16/03/06) A recent analysis of the
economic implications of the Kyoto Protocol implementation revealed
that the position of the United States of America influences the
economic consequences of the Protocol more than any other factor or
region considered. Download
article
Importance of Mangrove
Plants for Global Carbon Cycle (09/03/06) An analysis of
the impact of mangrove plants on marine carbon inventories suggests
that the mangroves account for more than 10% of the terrestrially
derived dissolved organic carbon transported to the ocean, while
they cover only 0.1% of the continents? surface. The worldwide rapid
decline of mangroves could have potential consequences on the
atmospheric composition and the climate. Download
article
Future of Bioenergy
Crops in Europe (09/03/06) European researchers have
assessed the potential distribution of bioenergy crops in Europe
under present and future climate. All models and scenarios suggest
that meeting the demand for bioenergy crop production in southern
Europe will be severely impaired by climate change and that efforts
must be made to adapt bioenergy crop production to the challenges of
climate change. Download
article
Land use Change ? a
Significant Driver of Climate Change (02/03/06) Recent
modelling results have shown that future land use and land cover
will be an important driver of climate change in the next century.
In particular, the results have shown that future land uses
decisions can alter IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change)
simulations on climate change from those based only on atmospheric
composition change. Download
article
Using Biotechnology
Against Global Warming (23/02/06) In recent research,
scientists have discovered a mutant enzyme that could enable plants
to use and convert carbon dioxide more quickly, effectively removing
more greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Download
article
The New Annual Greenhouse
Gas Index (16/02/06) The Annual Greenhouse Gas Index
reflects the global changes in the total atmospheric radiative
effect of all the long-lived greenhouse gases from both natural
sources and human activities. Based on accurate measurements, it
will be updated each year and is expected to provide an important
decision-support tool for managing greenhouse gases at the global
level, but not at regional or national levels. Download
article
Hydrogen Technologies
for Sustainable Energy Supply (09/02/06) A new report
released by the International Energy Agency has shown that
environmentally friendly hydrogen technologies may have a major role
in the future sustainable energy supply. This will only be possible
if the current targets for reducing technology costs can be met and
high priorities are given to reducing CO 2 emissions, improving
energy security and enhancing research and development
efforts. Download
article
Soils Lose Carbon Too
(09/02/06) A recent research has uncovered important
carbon losses from soils across England and Wales mainly due to
global warming and land use. These findings suggest that carbon loss
from soils might occur much more broadly with important consequences
on global carbon balance. Download
article
Forests: a CO2 Sink that
Could Dry up (02/02/06) European researchers have
analysed the impact of the extreme heat and drought experienced in
the summer of 2003 in Europe. They found that such extreme
conditions resulted in 30% decrease in primary productivity over the
continent which reversed European forests and prairies from CO 2
sinks to CO 2 sources. Download
article
Freshwater Biodiversity
Threatened by Climate Change (26/01/06) A recent research
project has addressed the losses in freshwater biodiversity under
plausible climate change and water consumption scenarios. About half
of the investigated rivers worldwide would experience reduced water
availability due to both global warming and withdrawal of water for
human needs. By 2070, in these drying rivers, loss in local fish
species would range from less than 4% to more than 22% with a
maximum of 75% loss in the most affected rivers. Download
article
Negative Impacts of
Carbon Sequestration Strategies (26/01/06) An
international group of experts have explored the environmental
impacts of plantation of trees as the main tool for biological
carbon sequestration. Their results show that the afforestation of
grasslands, scrublands and croplands for carbon sequestration may
cause important water and nutrient depletion and increased soil
salinity and acidity. Download
article
Climate Change Policy in
the Light of Uncertainty (19/01/06) Scientists
highlight that the risks related to global change and its potential
impacts on human well-being are so high that the lack of full
scientific certainty should not stand in the way of taking severe
and bold actions right now. An integrated approach to risk
management and environmental monitoring in its widest sense will be
crucial for the future management of the problem. Download
article
Biodiversity
Preservation under Changing Climate (12/01/06) European
researchers have demonstrated that long-distance dispersal across
fragmented habitats will likely be crucial for species adaptation to
climate change. This finding has important implications for
conservation targets of landscape planning under predicted changes
in climate. Download
article
Biomass Potential in
Europe (12/01/06) According to the European Environment
Agency, the use of biomass for clean energy generation in EU could
be significantly increased in the next decades without harming
biodiversity, soil and water resources. The potential biomass
available in Europe seems to be sufficient to support the ambitious
renewable energy 2010, 2020 and 2030 targets in an environmentally
responsible way. Download
article
Europe?s
Vulnerability to Environmental Change (05/01/06)
A new study suggests that in Europe, Mediterranean and mountain
regions are the most vulnerable to environmental change. In the
coming decades, changes in climate and land use in these regions are
likely to result in large changes in ecosystem services supply
causing problems to water regimes, energy, biodiversity,
agriculture, forestry and tourism. Download
article
Innovative Wave ? Power
Concept (15/12/05) Physicists have found a new way to
focus water waves that could be useful for wave-energy applications.
If their discovery is proven to work in practice, it could largely
contribute to the evolution of economically competitive and
environmentally sustainable wave power technology that could
increase the share of ocean energy in global energy
production. Download
article
CO2 Storage Against
Greenhouse Gases (05/12/05) A new assessment report
finalized by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
concludes that capturing and storing CO 2 produced by power plants
and factories before it enters the atmosphere could play a major
role in minimizing climate change. Download
article
Risky Species Response to
Climate Change (24/11/05) New study suggests that some
species are responding to climate change in ways which could
threaten their survival in the future. It seems that the velocity of
climate change, together with pressure on habitat, make it difficult
for species to optimally adapt to the new human-driven environmental
conditions. Download
article
Extent of Environmental Health Research in Europe (29/11/07)
Recent research investigates environmental health research in Europe over the last 10 years. The greatest research efforts in all countries analysed focused on the topic of work environment and heath, while urban and rural health and environmental health policy have received much less attention. In spite of the major advances in understanding the association between health and the environment, more collaborative research is needed in order to link the different elements of scientific data and knowledge in a more effective way.
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Adverse Effects of Diesel Exhaust Inhalation on Men with Heart Disease (22/11/07)
European researchers have recently assessed the health effects of exposure to diesel exhaust in men with stable coronary heart disease. Decreased blood flow to the heart and inhibition of the release of an important protein involved in blood clotting were observed, which together can have serious cardiovascular consequences.
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Sources of Exposure to Lead in Children (31/10/07)
French researchers have recently demonstrated that the main cause of exposure to lead in
children is food consumption. Lead exposure may have significant health impacts even at
low levels and hence this study helps to identify sources of lead exposure in children.
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Measuring Ambient Air Quality through Air Pollution Annoyance (18/10/07)
Researchers have recently assessed the level of annoyance caused by air pollution in 25 cities in 12 Western European countries. They suggest that this indicator of perceived ambient air quality could be useful in locating populations with the most urgent needs for environmental changes.
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Are Environmental Factors contributing to the growing Incidence of Cancer? (11/10/07)
An international team of researchers has analysed the carcinogenic effect of certain environmental factors and their role in carcinogenesis. The results suggest that chemicals related with pollution are of critical importance. Of major concern is outdoor air pollution by carbon particles associated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The results suggest that the recent increase in cancer incidence could be largely related to changes in our environment.
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Living close to Power Lines may increase the Risk of Some Cancers (27/09/07)
According to a recent study, living close to high-voltage power lines for a long period may increase the risk of developing certain cancers later. In particular, people who lived less than 300m from a high-voltage power line during early childhood are up to five times more likely to develop cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma.
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Positive and Negative Effects of Nanotechnology on the Environment (26/07/07)
In a recent paper, European researchers discuss the potential positive and negative effects
of nanotechnology on the environment. The authors show that nanotechnology has
promising applications such as environmental monitoring, remediation and pollution
prevention, and resource saving. Based on the available information, the authors draw
recommendations regarding future priorities for the research needed to ensure the safe and
responsible development of nanotechnology.
Download article
Climate Change impacts on Human Health (12/07/07)
An American researcher recently reviewed the available scientific evidence of the effect of
climate on diseases affecting humans. He notes that the potential for outbreaks of certain
diseases will be increased with climate change. Nevertheless, he suggests that, by
changing our sensitivity and even adaptive capacity, the impacts of climate mediated
diseases could be mitigated.
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Environmental Risk Factors for Parkinson's Disease (21/06/07)
A recent study by European researchers shows important evidence that exposure to
pesticides increases the risk of Parkinson?s disease. The results of this study highlight the
importance of addressing the actual use phase of the pesticides? life-cycle in order to
minimize human exposure and reduce the impacts on the environment.
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Assessing the Benefits of Risk-Reduction Measures (26/04/07)
A team of researchers has recently surveyed Italian urban dwellers to assess how much
they are willing to pay to reduce the risk of dying from air pollution associated diseases.
They also assessed how respondents monetise the loss of a life within society. In Italy, the
survey reveals that the benefits associated with reducing the level of particulate matter in
the air by near 60% could represent between 2,600 and 5,500 million Euros per year.
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Predicting the Effects of Legislation on SO2 Emissions from International Shipping (19/04/07)
Emissions of long range pollutants such as sulphur dioxide (SO 2) from international shipping
are expected to increase significantly in the coming decades and could be equivalent to up
to 75% of land-based emissions by 2010 if effective emission controls are not implemented.
A British team of scientists has recently assessed the expected benefits in the UK of tighter
legislation on emissions from ships transiting in the North Sea. By 2020, setting a cap of 1%
by mass on the sulphur fuel content of marine fuel could reduce total sulphur deposition by
6% and decrease by 1% the percentage area of sensitive habitats affected by pollutant
deposition.
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Mutagenic Effects of Urban Air Pollutants (08/03/07)
Italian scientists have recently demonstrated that fine particular matter in the air has
mutagenic potencies. This study provides new insights into air pollution regulation, in
particular in urban areas, as road traffic is the major source of this pollutant.
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Building Healthier Urban Neighbourhoods (22/02/07)
American researchers have recently investigated how structural features of the urban
environment determine traffic stress and the associated health outcomes. They found that
a higher density of major streets and greater traffic levels reinforce the negative impacts of
perceived traffic stress, thus posing a potential threat to health. Parks and recreational
facilities, on the other hand, may help to alleviate the damage of traffic stress on
individuals' well-being.
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New insights into the Effects of Traffic-related Air Pollution on Health (01/02/07)
In a recent study, researchers have observed a significant association between exposure to
traffic-related air pollution and the incidence of otitis media in children. The findings may
have significant implications for public health.
Download article
Risk to Health and the Environment of the Current Use of Lead (16/11/06)
A recent study has analysed the risks of the present uses of lead over time. The results show that the overall emission pattern will be stable in the coming decades. Nevertheless, more attention has to be paid to flows of lead during different waste treatment options. Furthermore, regarding exposure to lead emissions, there is a need for further information and testing of children.
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article
Urban Air Pollution - a Major Cause of Pollution-related Cancer (09/11/06)
A French scientist has reviewed the current epidemiological evidence linking exposure to pollutants with cancer. The author found that in Europe, outdoor air contaminants and indoor radon exposure seem to be the two most major causes of pollution-related cancer. The author calls for more research, as the number of studies on the health effects of non-occupational exposure to diverse environmental pollutants is still very limited.
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article
Mercury Contained in Fish may Contribute to Premature Birth (03/11/06)
According to a recent American study, eating too much fish during pregnancy could be linked to high mercury levels in mothers, which in turn could put women at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely. Nevertheless, more research is needed in order to further test the reported association.
Download
article
Do the Nano-sized Particles we Breathe Pose a Risk to our Health? (14/09/06) American researchers recently investigated the potential health risks of ultrafine particles in rats. The results show that the nano-sized materials inhaled by rats follow a rapid and efficient pathway from the nasal cavity to several regions in the brain. Exposure also caused signs of inflammation and stress. The ultrafine particles used in the study are the same size as nanoparticles, which are controversial due to concern about their safety. Download
article Pesticide DDT's Polluting Legacy will Last for Many Decades (26/07/06) According to a recent Canadian study, agricultural soils containing residues of DDT, a banned pesticide, will continue to be a source of atmospheric contamination for more than a generation, much longer than previously believed. Download
article Dangerously High Ozone Levels in European Summer (13/07/06) A recent report by the European Environment Agency concludes that the ground ozone levels continue to exceed EU safe levels, thus threatening human health across Europe. Although not as high as in the record year 2003, ozone pollution rose again in summer 2005, specially in southern countries such as Portugal, Greece, and Spain. Download
article Positive Side-effect of Climate Change Policies on Air Quality (29/06/06) According to a recent study by the European Environment Agency, tackling climate change in Europe through climate change policies could make a substantial contribution to improving air quality as well. The predicted additional benefits include the improvement of Europe's air quality, a fall in premature deaths associated with air pollution, and the saving of up to 10 EUR billion annually in air pollution control costs by 2030. Download
article Aircraft Noise Affects Cognitive Performance in Children (18/05/06) European researchers have investigated the effects of exposure to aircraft and road traffic noise on cognitive performance and health in children. The results suggest that exposure to high levels of aircraft noise could impair the development of reading capacity and memory in children. Thus, schools exposed to high levels of aircraft noise are not healthy educational environments. Download
article Life Expectancy Approach
to Assess Health Impacts of Air Pollution (27/04/06) A
French scientist has presented a new approach in performing and
interpreting epidemiological analyses to assess mortality impacts of
air pollution. It uses life expectancy in the place of mortality and
gives a deeper insight to quantify chronic effects of air
pollutants. Download
article
Exposure to Ozone May
Affect Human Reproduction (20/04/06) Scientists who have
examined the relationships between exposure to specific air
pollutants and semen quality report significant declines in semen
quality associated with exposure to ozone air pollution. Download
article
Mitigating Ozone
Pollution with Methane Emission Control (30/03/06) A
recent research has explored the impact of methane mitigation on the
atmospheric levels of ozone, an air pollutant associated with
premature mortality. The results show that a 20% reduction of
current global methane emissions that could be achieved by 2010
could prevent 30,000 premature mortalities globally in 2030.
Download
article
European Male Fertility
Affected by POP (16/03/06) European scientists have
investigated the possible negative effects of persistent organic
pollutants on male fertility. The results demonstrate that exposure
to polychlorinated biphenyls has a negative impact on human sperm
integrity in European male populations. Download
article
Diesel Exhaust
Inhalation Impairs Vascular Functions (02/03/06) In a
new experimental study, European researchers have shown that
exposure to increased levels of combustion-derived air pollution for
as little as 1 hour can impair vascular functions in humans. These
data provide a plausible biological link to explain the association
between air pollution and the acute heart attack. Download
article
Side Effects of
Nanotechnology (23/02/06) A recent review of potential
harmful side effects of nanotechnology suggests that, under certain
circumstances, nanomaterials may pose risks to human health and the
environment. These findings highlight the important role that
nanotoxicological studies may play in the responsible development of
nanotechnologies and considerable benefits they may offer to the
society. Download
article
Reduced Air Pollution
Improves Children?s Health (16/02/06) In a recent
epidemiology study, Swiss researchers have demonstrated that even
small reductions in rather moderate air pollution levels contribute
to improved respiratory health in children. Download
article
New Evidence on Harmful
Effects of POPs (16/02/06) High consumption of fatty
fish from Baltic Sea is the major source of persistent organic
pollutants (POPs) in Sweden. A recent assessment of the links
between blood levels of POPs and the prevalence of diabetes in
Swedish fisherman and their wives provide epidemiological support
that POP exposure may increase risk of diabetes in such high exposed
cohorts. Download
article
EU EMF Directive Raises
Questions(09/02/06) A recent assessment of the
implementation of the EU Physical Agents (Electromagnetic Field)
Directive reveals that the defined exposure limits could have
negative impacts in the developing field of magnetic resonance
imaging. British scientists who conducted the assessment highlight
the need for a prompt revision of the directive. Download
article
Phthalates May Affect
Baby Boys (26/01/06) The results of a recent European
study suggest that exposure to phthalates through lactation can
trigger the reduction of reproductive hormones in baby boys. This
finding supports the hypothesis that the human reproductive organs
may be vulnerable to these ubiquitous environmental
chemicals. Download
article
Health Implications of
Ecosystem Change (19/01/06) The sixth report from the
Millennium Ecosystem Assessment points out a myriad of health
threats caused by worldwide ecosystem degradation. It also
highlights the need to promptly address the health-related issues of
ecosystem change by implementing measures to safeguard ecosystem
services on which human well-being depends on. Download
article
Climate Change Policy in
the Light of Uncertainty (19/01/06) Scientists
highlight that the risks related to global change and its potential
impacts on human well-being are so high that the lack of full
scientific certainty should not stand in the way of taking severe
and bold actions right now. An integrated approach to risk
management and environmental monitoring in its widest sense will be
crucial for the future management of the problem. Download
article
Noise Increases the Risk
of Heart Diseases (12/01/06) Recent epidemiologic study
shows that long- term exposure to high traffic noise increases the
risk of cardiovascular diseases. Download
article
Long - term Effect of Air
Pollution in Europe (12/01/06) Results from a recent
European study show that air pollution assessed in France in the
1970s is associated with increased mortality over 25 years. These
results emphasise the need for additional long term studies for the
development of effective strategies for reducing the risks related
to long - term exposure to air pollution. Download
article
New Electromagnetic Fields
Exposure Guidelines (15/12/05) The World Health
Organization's science-based Environmental Health Criteria monograph
on Static Fields provides bases for the revision of international
exposure guidelines. It also advises that the long-term effects
should be addressed in both further research and policies dealing
with EMF issues. Download
article
Health Effects of Air
Pollution Underestimated?(05/12/05) Recent study of the
relationships between air pollution and mortality at within-city
scale demonstrates that the contribution of particulate matter to
chronic health problems may be two to three times greater than
current estimates which are based on conventional between-cities
approach. Download
article
| Environmental technologies |
|
Nanotechnologies for Improved Environmental Performances (13/12/07)
Finnish researchers have recently looked at the possibility of reducing the environmental
impacts of papermaking through the use of nanotechnologies. They suggest that rethinking
the design of production processes so that they include nanotechnologies could help reach
near-zero emissions.
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Towards an Information Society: what Impacts on the Environment? (15/11/07)
Researchers from the United Kingdom have recently observed that scientific assessments of the environmental impacts of Information and Communications Technologies do not converge. They suggest building more predictive models to cope with these discrepancies.
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Do Environmental Management Systems lead to new, cleaner Technologies? (08/11/07)
Recently, a team of Slovenian researchers investigated the link between the Environmental Management System ISO 14001 and the introduction of new cleaner technologies in the Slovene metal and chemical industries. Their results show that the ISO 14001 standard is a very good way to move towards cleaner technologies.
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Research to Develop New Policies for Carbon Sequestration Technology (04/10/07)
In a recent study, American scientists analysed the research areas that can support the
development of regulatory and legal frameworks to ensure the safe implementation of
carbon capture and sequestration. A better understanding of the magnitude and
mechanisms of potential leakage as well as the development of monitoring, mitigation and
remediation methods are essential for the large scale deployment of this technology.
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Renewable Energy Sources are beneficial over their entire Life-Cycle (27/09/07)
Greek researchers have recently compared the environmental impacts of different renewable energy systems with those of traditional energy sources based on fossil fuels. The results show that, depending on how the produced energy is used, certain systems of renewable resources can have greater overall life-cycle efficiencies.
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Key Factors for the Successful Implementation of the IPPC Directive (06/09/07)
A recent paper by British experts presents some of the experiences gained in England and
Wales in the implementation of the European Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control
Directive. Phasing the introduction of the regime by industrial sector, providing guidance and
regulatory packages tailored to each sector and involving the industry and trade bodies in the
process have, among other factors, contributed to an efficient and successful implementation of
this integrated regulation.
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Opportunities and barriers for Beneficial Nanotechnologies (06/09/07)
United Kingdom consultants, Oakdene Hollins, have recently analysed the opportunities and
potential obstacles to adoption of a number of environmentally beneficial nanotechnologies.
The authors conclude that public procurement and policy could be used to promote
environmentally beneficial nanotechnologies, which are estimated to be able to reduce up to
20% of greenhouse gases emitted by the United Kingdom by 2050.
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Positive and Negative Effects of Nanotechnology on the Environment (26/07/07)
In a recent paper, European researchers discuss the potential positive and negative effects
of nanotechnology on the environment. The authors show that nanotechnology has
promising applications such as environmental monitoring, remediation and pollution
prevention, and resource saving. Based on the available information, the authors draw
recommendations regarding future priorities for the research needed to ensure the safe and
responsible development of nanotechnology.
Download article
Carbon Capture and Storage: how is it perceived in Europe? (26/04/07)
Carbon capture and storage is one of the solutions that can be used to decrease
concentrations of CO 2 in the atmosphere. An EU-funded survey of about 500 stakeholders
in Europe was recently performed in order to find out the current acceptance and perception
of such storage technologies. The results show that about three quarters of the respondents
think that carbon capture and storage is definitely or probably necessary to achieve deep
reductions in CO 2.
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Prospective Scenarios for Renewable Energies and Carbon Capture and Storage (29/03/07)
A German team of scientists has recently compared the structural, economic and
environmental aspects of carbon capture and storage (CCS) with renewable energy
technologies. Even if CCS technologies emit more carbon dioxide than generally assumed
and considerably more than renewables, CCS could lead to a significant absolute reduction
of greenhouse gas emissions within the electricity supply system. However, depending on
market forces, renewables could develop faster and become cheaper.
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How to boost Wind Power Development (22/03/07)
Swedish scientists have recently analysed the potential for future wind power development in
Sweden. They describe the main obstacles to the expansion of windmills and the
measures that could be implemented to face such difficulties. In particular, they highlight the
importance of evaluating the institutional and legal framework governing wind power
development before new or modified policy instruments are implemented. They conclude that
a clear political commitment is necessary in order to reduce the legal and policy-related
uncertainties associated with wind power investment.
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Priorities for Energy Conservation Measures in Buildings (21/12/06)
According to a recent Greek study on potential energy savings in the building sector, the most effective energy conservation measures include the insulation of external walls, weather proofing or sealing of openings, and the regular maintenance of central heating boilers. The results also show that efforts to improve energy efficiency in residential buildings can result in considerable reductions in CO 2 emissions and thus play a key role in meeting the EU target of reducing emissions in accordance with the Kyoto Protocol.
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Development prospects for the European Eco-Industry (07/12/06)
According to a recent study commissioned by the European Commission, the European market for environmental goods and services was worth ?227 billion in 2004 representing 2.2% of the gross domestic product in the EU-25 area. The authors found that one of the main drivers of the development of this industry in the future will be the reinforcement of environmental requirements and their application.
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New Technology to Recycle Problematic Polystyrene (26/10/06) European researchers have presented a new method for recycling problematic polystyrene. The new technology shows how microbes may help transform petroleum-based waste into a useful biodegradable plastic. Download
article
Environmental Impacts of Hydrogen-based Energy Systems (19/10/06) A new British study suggests that future hydrogen-based energy systems may still disrupt climate, as hydrogen is a secondary greenhouse gas. Unless leakage from the synthesis and use of hydrogen is carefully controlled, the expected improvement in global warming gained from replacing fossil fuel-based energy systems would not be fully realised. Download
article
What is the Future for Anaerobic Digestion of Solid Waste? (19/10/06) A new study has analysed the likely future of anaerobic digestion technologies for the treatment of solid waste. Serious issues remain to be overcome, such as increasing reliability and decreasing overall costs. It is nevertheless expected that this type of biological treatment will play an even more important role in the future. Download
article
Deep-Sea Sediments - an Innovative Solution for Storing CO2 Safely (05/10/06) American scientists have recently evaluated the feasibility of injecting man-made carbon dioxide into deep-sea sediments. They show that this innovative solution could provide virtually permanent, unlimited and safe storage for this gas, a major driver of global climate change in the last decades. Download
article Environmental Management Systems Enhance Technology Innovation (15/06/06) A German study has recently analysed the influence of different characteristics of the EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme, EMAS, on the technical environmental innovations and economic performance of the facilities that implement this system. The study reports that environmental management systems are having a positive influence on the environmental process innovation of companies. Download
article Sustainable Air
Transport in 2050 (16/02/06) A recent Swedish
project explored three scenarios of sustainable air travel in 2050.
The results suggest that slower aircraft configuration cursing at
lower altitudes would entail a 56% cut of CO 2 emissions compared to
2000. If this technology is coupled with a shift to a weakened
emphasis on economic growth and less hectic lifestyles, air travel
would significantly increase in a sustainable and environmentally
friendly way. Download
article
Earth Observation in
Service to EU Water (05/12/05) A broader use of the Earth
Observation services may be used to facilitate and harmonise a large
number of monitoring and reporting demands required by the EU Water
Framework Directive.
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article
Public Policy Boosts
Environmental Innovation (24/11/05) New empirical
evidences suggest that, in the area of renewable energies, public
policy, rather than economic factors, have the dominant positive
effect on environmental technological innovation, as measured by
patent activities.
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article
New Insights into the Effects of Heavy Metal Pollution on Forests (29/11/07)
An international team of researchers has investigated the impacts of heavy metal pollution and acid rain on a young forest ecosystem. They have succeeded in recording the different impacts of acid rain and heavy metal pollution on certain tree species. Their results, which are very important for our understanding of the effects of heavy metal pollution on forests, can also help develop better solutions for cleaning heavy metal polluted soil.
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Integrating Forests in the Context of National Accounting (08/11/07)
Currently, different frameworks exist for forest accounting at national level within the European Union. In this context, an Austrian researcher has recently discussed their main characteristics and underlined their differences based on Austrian experiences. He suggests developing unambiguous protocols for dealing with the industry-specific challenges of national accounting as well as harmonising the different accounting schemes with other forest-related statistics.
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Taxes or Quotas: what is more Efficient to mitigate GHG Emissions? (31/10/07)
Italian researchers have recently evaluated the cost-effectiveness of measures to mitigate
greenhouse gas emissions in the European agro-forestry sector. From a technical
viewpoint, the abatement of methane emissions appeared more cost efficient than carbon
sequestration or biofuel production. As for policy measures, taxes seem to lead to cheaper
solutions than quotas.
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Human Activity Impacts Carbon Cycles in Forests (19/07/07)
According to a recent study by an international team of researchers, human activities are
having a major impact on the carbon balance of forests in the Northern hemisphere. In
particular, the sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide by these forests is found to be
driven mainly by nitrogen input from anthropogenic sources.
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Carbon Sequestration in Forests: What Prospects? (05/07/07)
European researchers have recently reviewed the scientific evidence of modifications to
carbon storage in forests in response to climate and land-use changes. On one hand,
increased temperatures and CO 2 concentrations in the air are likely to increase the growth
rate of trees, thereby increasing the quantity of carbon stored. On the other hand, the
storage capacity of forests has been shown to be reaching its limits. Overall, these elements
should be taken into account in forest management practices, as they have an impact on
forest carbon sequestration.
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Forest Fires worsen Mercury Contamination in Fish (01/03/07)
Canadian researchers have recently investigated the correlation between forest fires and
abnormally high toxic mercury concentration in fish from lakes of partially burnt
catchments. They have shown that forest fires are responsible for a 5-fold increase in
mercury accumulation in some fish species, which could cause serious health problems
for consumers. These results provide new insights into the possible consequences of
forest fires on the persistence of toxic substances in aquatic systems.
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Possible Effects of Global Climate Change on Trees (22/02/07)
European researchers have recently reviewed available scientific evidence of the effects
of future climate change on European beech trees. While trees could benefit from an
increased concentration of CO 2 in the atmosphere, it is also predicted that they will suffer
greatly from an expected intensification of droughts and flooding. These results underline
the need to take all these effects into account when estimating the overall reaction of
plants to a changing climate.
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Current and Former Agricultural Uses influence Natural Land Restoration (11/01/07)
Austrian and Italian scientists have recently investigated the natural reforestation mechanisms in four regions of the Eastern Alps, where agricultural land-use has declined by up to 67% in the past 150 years. They have shown that the previous and current uses of these formerly cultivated lands are major factors influencing natural reforestation. The results of the study could be useful when assessing possible environmental impacts of agricultural policies.
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What is the Future for the World?s Forests? (14/12/06)
An international group of researchers has recently developed a novel approach to analysing the world?s forest transition and prospects. The results suggest that forest stocks have expanded over the past 15 years in 22 of the world?s most forested nations, thus raising hopes for a ?turning point? from deforestation. The technique developed, known as Forest Identity, may be useful to policy-makers as they formulate effective strategies for forest conservation.
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Economic Impacts of Increasing Forest Conservation in Europe (23/11/06)
According to a recent study, if Western Europe decided now to protect 5% of productive forest resources for conservation, harvest would decrease by 3% between 2010 and 2020, while wood prices would rise by 4%. The results also show that increased protection of forests in Western Europe would increase wood harvests in Eastern Europe and Russia.
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article
Potential Environmental Benefits of Novel Agroforestry Systems (03/11/06)
European researchers have recently examined the potential environmental benefits of integrating trees and arable crops on the same land in different climatic conditions in Europe. The results show that the adoption of agroforestry systems can potentially lead to reduced soil erosion and nitrogen leaching, and increased carbon sequestration and landscape biodiversity.
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article
Wood-framed Construction Requires Less Energy and Emits Less CO2 (26/10/06) Swedish and Finnish scientists have developed and used a new methodology to compare the net carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption of concrete and wood framed buildings. The results suggest that increasing the proportion of wood-based building materials would lower the energy demand and lead to a net reduction of CO 2 emissions relative to concrete materials. The recovery of residues resulting from the production of the wood building material and their utilisation in energy supply systems would increase such benefits. Download
article
Soybean Production Impacts Climate and Deforestation in the Amazon (19/10/06) A new study by American and Brazilian researchers shows that the Brazilian Amazon is increasingly being cleared for mechanized cropland rather than for grazing cattle, making the deforestation process even more harmful for the environment. This change in land use may alter the region's climate and the land's ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Download
article
Trees Respond Slower to Climate Change that Previously Predicted (12/10/06) Results from a recent American study suggest that trees cannot migrate in response to climate change as quickly as was previously believed. This may have important implications in the future. As different species of trees may not be able to adapt to changing conditions under global warming, many species could become extinct. Download
article
Fragrance from Pine Forests Helps to Slow Climate Change (08/06/06) European researchers have concluded that trees in the boreal forest are important contributors to the formation of natural aerosol particles, which are believed to have a substantial cooling effect on climate, thus slowing global warming. Their contribution should be considered in climate change models in order to make more accurate predictions of our future climate. Download
article Nitrogen Limitation Restricts CO2 Absorption by Trees (24/05/06) New research suggests that trees may not be able to limit climate change by storing rising atmospheric CO 2 as was previously believed. Limited availability of nitrogen in the soil, which will become more common as atmospheric CO 2 levels rise, may inhibit plant growth, which in turn would affect plants' accumulation of atmospheric CO 2. Atmospheric CO 2 levels may therefore rise even faster than anticipated. Download
article Environmental Effects of
Converting Arable Land into Forest (20/04/06) A recent
Dutch study investigated the changes in water recharge and nitrogen
concentration in the ground upon conversion of arable land into oak
and spruce forest. The results showed that this land use
transformation increases the net capturing of nitrogen from the
ground, thus decreasing groundwater pollution by nitrogen. On the
other hand, it reduces water recharge of ground and surface
reservoirs, thus affecting the local hydrological balance. Download
article
Forests: a CO2 Sink that
Could Dry up (02/02/06) European researchers have
analysed the impact of the extreme heat and drought experienced in
the summer of 2003 in Europe. They found that such extreme
conditions resulted in 30% decrease in primary productivity over the
continent which reversed European forests and prairies from CO 2
sinks to CO 2 sources. Download
article
Negative Impacts of
Carbon Sequestration Strategies (26/01/06) An
international group of experts have explored the environmental
impacts of plantation of trees as the main tool for biological
carbon sequestration. Their results show that the afforestation of
grasslands, scrublands and croplands for carbon sequestration may
cause important water and nutrient depletion and increased soil
salinity and acidity. Download
article
Deforestation May Not Be
the Major Cause of Flooding (15/12/05) Recent
international report demonstrates that, contrary to general belief,
there is no scientific evidence linking deforestation and logging to
widespread flooding. Download
article
Benefits of Wastelands for the Protection of Urban Biodiversity (08/11/07)
Recent research has emphasised the role urban wastelands can play in preserving biodiversity in urban areas. Large connected wasteland seems to be a significant source of floristic diversity and thus disseminates and colonises surrounding neighbourhoods. Scientists suggest that preserving wasteland in urban areas could be necessary to protect urban biodiversity.
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Future Trends of Carbon Uptake from Land-use Change (12/07/07)
European researchers have recently investigated the possible changes in terrestrial carbon
storage in Europe under projected climate and land-use changes. They conclude that the
carbon uptake capacity of the biosphere is likely to be small compared to projected
European fossil fuel emissions. The results might be useful when considering measures to
maximise carbon storage in terrestrial ecosystems to meet the Kyoto targets and other
climate mitigation policies.
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The Challenge of Sustainable Brownfield Regeneration in Europe (26/04/07)
European researchers have recently addressed current Europe- and nationwide
approaches to promoting and delivering sustainable brownfield regeneration. The study
highlights that sustainable brownfield soil reuse or site regeneration is not being promoted,
enabled or facilitated in Europe by the initiatives currently being adopted. Further efforts are
still needed to overcome current obstacles to the effective and efficient redevelopment of
brownfield sites.
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Good Land Management may enhance Soil Depollution (22/02/07)
German researchers have recently studied the effect of land management practices on
the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus contents from heathlands. They have shown that
sod-cutting allows for a complete removal of nitrogen in soil. Prescribed burning is shown
to be the best practice to limit phosphorus removal, which could be useful in areas where
plant growth is limited by this chemical. Finally, their results highlight the role of combining
several management practices to achieve efficient long-term management.
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New Insights into Soil Erosion Prevention (15/02/07)
Spanish researchers have recently studied the effect of plant cover on runoff and soil
erosion in south-east Spain. They have shown that, compared to uncovered soils,
aromatic and medicinal plant cover reduces runoff and soil erosion by up to 81% and 98%
respectively. The authors suggest that using these plants on bare-soils could be useful for
sustainable land management in Mediterranean mountain areas.
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Organic Farming: Good Practice for Soil Quality Preservation (25/01/07)
Swiss researchers have recently published a 21-year study of the effects of farming on
soil quality. Focussing on the level of farmyard manure and chemical use, they have
shown that organic farming is the best agricultural practice for sustainable land
management, in particular through the enhancement of the microbial activity in the soil
leading to increased mineral exchange between plants and soil.
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Current and Former Agricultural Uses influence Natural Land Restoration (11/01/07)
Austrian and Italian scientists have recently investigated the natural reforestation mechanisms in four regions of the Eastern Alps, where agricultural land-use has declined by up to 67% in the past 150 years. They have shown that the previous and current uses of these formerly cultivated lands are major factors influencing natural reforestation. The results of the study could be useful when assessing possible environmental impacts of agricultural policies.
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The Role of Policy in Facilitating Adaptation to Climate Change (09/11/06)
European researchers have recently analysed the vulnerability of agricultural land use and species to climate change. The results suggest that the impacts of climate change in the agricultural sector and the consequent adaptation could have significant effects on the ability of species to adapt to climate change. It is therefore important to assess the vulnerability of both agriculture and species if appropriate policy measures are to be implemented in response to climate change.
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article
Potential Environmental Benefits of Novel Agroforestry Systems (03/11/06)
European researchers have recently examined the potential environmental benefits of integrating trees and arable crops on the same land in different climatic conditions in Europe. The results show that the adoption of agroforestry systems can potentially lead to reduced soil erosion and nitrogen leaching, and increased carbon sequestration and landscape biodiversity.
Download
article
Soybean Production Impacts Climate and Deforestation in the Amazon (19/10/06) A new study by American and Brazilian researchers shows that the Brazilian Amazon is increasingly being cleared for mechanized cropland rather than for grazing cattle, making the deforestation process even more harmful for the environment. This change in land use may alter the region's climate and the land's ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Download
article
New Insights for Understanding and Predicting Desertification (06/07/06) A team of researchers has developed a new integrated conceptual framework and operational scheme that takes into account the wide range of factors influencing changes that can result in desertification. This new approach could help to better understand and forecast spatial and temporal variations in desertification dynamics, thus improving our capacity to better target mitigation options. Download
article Biodiversity Holds the Key to Sustainable Biofuel Production (22/06/06) According to a recent study by American scientists, ecosystems containing a greater number of plant species, produce more biomass. This result suggests that biodiversity holds the key to producing a sustainable supply of biomass for biofuel. Furthermore, ecosystems with a higher biodiversity are more stable and are therefore able to recover more easily from climate extremes, pests and disease over long periods of time. Download
article Biodiversity Conservation
Threatened by Land Market Dynamics (04/05/06) According
to a new study, it is important to consider the impact of real
estate market dynamics when considering land purchase in
conservation programmes for biodiversity protection. Without good
data and an understanding of the laws of supply and demand, the
purchase of land for conservation could sometimes even do more harm
than good for biodiversity. Download
article
Future Projections of
Land Use in Europe (30/03/06) A European research team
has recently compared several possible climate and socio-economic
scenarios for the prediction of the evolution of land use in Europe.
Despite great variations according to the scenarios used, this study
predicts an increase in the level of European production and a
northward march of arable farming in Europe. Download
article
Land use Change - a
Significant Driver of Climate Change (02/03/06) Recent
modelling results have shown that future land use and land cover
will be an important driver of climate change in the next century.
In particular, the results have shown that future land uses
decisions can alter IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change)simulations on climate change from those based only on
atmospheric composition change. Download
article
Organically
Managed Soils are Healthier (23/02/06) Dutch
researchers have compared the effects of organic and conventional
management on chemical and biological parameters of agricultural
soils. Their results demonstrate that organically managed soils
present higher biodiversity, lower levels of nitrates and soluble
nitrogen, and higher resilience to environmental
disturbances. Download
article
Land Use: Human Needs vs
Ecosystem Effects (26/01/06) The revised data on the
global consequences of land use change shows that modern land use
practices cause extensive environmental damage with adverse
implications for ecosystem services. Confronting the land use
challenge will require the assessment and management of trade-offs
between immediate human needs and long-term capacity of the
biosphere to provide goods and services. Download
article
Europe's
Vulnerability to Environmental Change (05/01/06)
A new study suggests that in Europe, Mediterranean and mountain
regions are the most vulnerable to environmental change. In the
coming decades, changes in climate and land use in these regions are
likely to result in large changes in ecosystem services supply
causing problems to water regimes, energy, biodiversity,
agriculture, forestry and tourism. Download
article
Environmental Impacts of Recreational Boating (22/11/07)
A recent report on the environmental impacts of recreational boating shows that the major issue is the management of waste water. Further research appears necessary on how to equip all boats with on-board water treatment systems.
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Acid Rain severely impacts Coastal Water (18/10/07)
According to recent research, the impact of anthropogenic nitrogen and sulphur deposition on ocean acidification is minor on a global scale. Nevertheless, the impacts are more substantial in coastal water, which is more vulnerable, and therefore more affected due to pollution, overfishing and climate change.
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Long Term Impacts of Oil Spills on Bird Populations (27/09/07)
A Spanish team of scientists has recently investigated the presence of health disorders in seagull populations exposed to the Prestige oil spill that occurred in 2002. Biological tests and the study of physiological parameters suggest the presence of non-lethal damage to the health of gulls breeding in oiled colonies. This damage appears to be caused by persistent pollutants 17 months after the incident. These findings emphasize the need to quantify the circulating level of persistent chemicals in order to assess long term impacts associated with large oil spills.
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Ships as a Cause of Non-Indigenous Species Introduction (13/09/07)
Researchers from New Zealand have recently demonstrated that ships' sea-chests, the intake areas for ballast water in the hulls of large ships, are responsible for introducing non-indigenous species into the world's seas. As might be expected, international vessels pose the greatest threat. The researchers call for more effective treatment of sea-chests, in order to limit the biological risks posed by non-indigenous species.
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Effects of Fish Extinction on Ecosystems (12/07/07)
Nitrogen and phosphorus are crucial nutrients in aquatic ecosystems as most organisms at
the base of the food chain rely on them. Considering that the recycling of nutrients is directly
influenced by fishes, an American team of scientists has recently investigated the impacts of
fish extinction on nutrients recycling processes. Their results highlight the complexity of
predicting the consequences of extinctions from species-rich animal communities.
Nevertheless, the importance of exploited fish species in nutrient recycling suggests that
overfishing could have particularly detrimental effects on ecosystem functioning.
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Persistent Organic Pollutants in the Mediterranean Sea (05/07/07)
Spanish researches have recently assessed the contamination of the Mediterranean Sea by
certain Persistent Organic Pollutants using sediment concentrations as environmental
indicators. The results show a decreasing temporal trend in concentrations and that
chemical contamination mainly originates from land-based sources. Hot spots are usually
located along the northern coast-line. The authors also highlight important gaps of
knowledge and the need for more monitoring programmes to be set up in many riparian
countries.
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Sea mussels as Marine Pollution Sensors in the Mediterranean Sea (21/06/07)
In a recent study, a Spanish team of scientists conducted a bio-monitoring survey on sea
mussels along North West Mediterranean shores. By assessing the mussels? health by
means of various biochemical tests, their results prove that there are significant correlations
between environmental pollution and damage to mussels? health. This confirms that
mussels may provide relevant data for assessing the biological impacts of environmental
pollution in the Mediterranean Sea and that they may serve as reliable early warning
signals.
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Fishing Gear Losses: Impacts and Management Responses (07/06/07)
?Ghost fishing? occurs when fishing gear such as nets or traps is lost or discarded and continues to catch
species of fish and crustaceans unintentionally. In a recent study, a British team of scientists investigated
the impact of ghost fishing in net fisheries in the EU and assessed the costs and benefits of common
management responses to address this issue. Their results suggest that gear retrieval programmes may
prove less profitable than other management responses unless the actual costs of ghost fishing are very
high. Preventive measures are thus likely to be preferable.
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Mussels and Oysters Threatened by Ocean Acidification (03/05/07)
According to a recent study by French and Dutch researchers, ocean acidification resulting
from human emissions of carbon dioxide is seriously threatening edible shellfish such as
mussels and oysters. The predicted impacts on the ability of these species to produce their
shells as a result of ocean acidification may have important consequences on the
biodiversity and functioning of coastal ecosystems and potentially lead to substantial
economic losses.
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How can Biological Pollution from Alien Species be measured? (19/04/07)
A European team of researchers has recently developed a groundbreaking method to
determine the magnitude of the impacts from invasive alien aquatic species on marine,
brackish and freshwater ecosystems. These species, introduced by humans from outside
their natural geographic range, are one of the major causes of biodiversity loss in Europe.
The method could serve as a basis for assessing temporal changes as well as the efficacy
of management in the field of biological pollution.
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Evaluating Mid to Long-Term Impacts of Chemicals on Marine Communities (22/03/07)
It is well known that some chemicals may induce reproductive disorders in marine
organisms. In a recent study, a European team of scientists investigated the effects of
different levels of sexual abnormality that could be induced by contaminants on the
population dynamics of a marine shrimp. Depending on the sex ratios and abnormalities,
they have proved that some communities could be extinct within 2 to 10 years. This
confirms the urgent need for a better understanding of the mid to long-term effects of
chemicals when released into the marine environment, in order to set up an efficient
legislative framework.
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Benefits of Marine Protected Areas for Fish Conservation (15/03/07)
Marine protected areas are zones where fishing activities are restricted and they are
believed to be essential for preserving marine resources. British researchers have
recently investigated to what extent such areas in temperate regions protect marine
communities. The results of their study show that fishing restriction zones benefit some
marine communities, sedentary and short-lived species in particular.
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Would warmer Oceans remain productive? (01/03/07)
American researchers have recently investigated the relationship between ocean
temperature and ocean productivity. Using satellite data, they have assessed that under
warmer ocean temperatures, phytoplankton strongly decrease. As these micro-organisms
are the first level of the food chain, the productivity of oceans is strongly affected. These
findings provide new insights into the potential risks for food chains with a warmer climate,
including for human beings as the last level of these chains.
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How do Changes in Ocean Temperature affect Marine Ecosystems? (01/02/07)
American researchers have recently found that temperature strongly affects marine larval
dispersal, a key component in conservation and management of fish, shellfish and other
marine species. They have developed a new model that shows that the distance marine
larvae travel varies with ocean temperature. This model could be useful for evaluating the
ecological and evolutionary consequences of temperature changes in the world's oceans.
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Seagrass Ecosystems face a Global Crisis (11/01/07)
An international team of scientists have recently reported that seagrass ecosystems, a unique group of flowering plants that have adapted to exist fully submersed in the sea, are facing a global crisis due to a diverse array of pressure from human activities. The researchers call for a targeted global conservation effort to preserve this critical coastal habitat, which provides key ecological services such as nutrient cycling, sediment stabilisation, enhanced biodiversity and organic carbon production.
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Ship Noise: a significant Stress Factor for Freshwater Communities (21/12/06)
A recent Austrian study confirms that exposure to underwater noise pollution is a major source of stress for freshwater fish. The results show that ship noise can increase the secretion of stress hormones in fish by up to 120% in comparison with a no-noise situation. The authors emphasise that this biological response to man-made noise can have severe impacts on the growth and development of fish.
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Current Trends in Ocean Species Loss threaten Human Well-being (07/12/06)
According to a recent study by an international group of scientists, marine species loss is accelerating, thus affecting the overall health of the world's oceans. If the observed trend continues, all fish and seafood species are projected to collapse by 2050. However, the results also suggest that reversing this trend is still possible.
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Fish-farm Parasites have Severe Impacts on Wild Fish Populations (23/11/06)
A new Canadian study provides new insights about the possible impacts of aquaculture on wildlife. The research concludes that sea lice from salmon farms can have severe impacts on wild salmon. The results show that up to 95% of young wild salmon died in the studied area due to farm-origin lice infection. This effect may not be limited to salmon but may extend to other species farmed around the world.
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article
Untreated Domestic Waste is a Major Source of Marine Pollution (03/11/06)
According to a recent report by the United Nations Environmental Programme that overviews the current state of the marine environment, substantial progress has been achieved in reducing fuel oil contamination, persistent organic pollutants and radioactive substances. Nevertheless, other problems have grown worse. Physical alteration and destruction of habitats, nutrient over-enrichment, marine litter and untreated sewage discharge are identified as the four priority problems for action.
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article
Alternative Strategies for Future Control of Antifouling Biocides (12/10/06) A British study has reviewed historical and current developments, occurrence and regulation of antifouling paint biocides and analysed future trends. Some of the most popular biocides have been shown to damage non-targeted organisms while data for the risk assessment of others is still lacking. The legislative measures introduced to regulate the use of booster biocides vary across Europe. New strategies have to be found in order to reduce the possible negative effects of these compounds on marine ecosystems. Download
article
New Insights regarding Marine Animal Conservation (21/09/06) Results from a recent British study suggest that some large marine vertebrates, in particular basking sharks, move between different political and economic zones in European waters and are largely without legal protection. This demonstrates the limited capacity of the existing protection areas. The authors conclude that protection measures have to be organized at European level rather than at national level in order to guarantee consistent protection. Download
article Challenges Facing European Coasts (20/07/06) Europe's unique coastal environment is under increasing threat from rapid and unsustainable acceleration in the use of coastal space, mostly driven by the recreation and tourism industries, according to a new report by the European Environment Agency. The implementation of an integrated legislative framework and the EU?s recommendation concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management are crucial to tackle coastal issues. Download
article Is Ecolabelling in Fisheries an Effective Conservation Tool? (06/07/06) A recent study has reviewed the potential of ecolabelling to encourage sustainable marine fisheries and has analysed the possible modifications that are needed to the current scheme in order to overcome current limitations. The authors conclude that none of the modifications that are needed to achieve a wider participation from marine fishers will be sufficient without constructive support from governments, retailers and the fishing industry. Download
article The Reef Effect May Threaten Marine Ecosystems (29/06/06)
Scientists have recently examined the effects of offshore windmill farms on marine ecosystems. According to the study, the potentially most pronounced effect of this type of structure may be the impacts of the required artificial substrate on the composition of local species and biological structures. This effect is known as the reef effect, and has received very little attention in previous impact assessments. More research is needed regarding the impact of man-made constructions on the sea.
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article Global Warming May Have Damaged Coral Reefs Forever (15/06/06) A recent study has shown for the first time the long-term impact of sea temperature rises on reef coral and fish communities. The results suggest that global warming may have had a more devastating effect on some of the world?s finest coral reefs than previously assumed. Download
article A New Approach to Measuring Marine Biodiversity (08/06/06) American scientists have recently applied a genetically-based method to identify and catalogue marine biodiversity in its larval phase. The results suggest that marine biodiversity may be underestimated in some parts of the world such as the Coral Triangle in the Indo Pacific region and the Red Sea. In spite of certain limitations, this new approach provides a mechanism to quantify the unknown marine biodiversity. Download
article Deep-Sea Fishes on the
Way to Extinction (04/05/06) Recent research survey data
have shown that five species of deep sea fish have declined
substantially over the past few decades due to unsustainable fishing
practices. This finding suggests that conservation measures, such as
the establishment of deep-sea protected areas are urgently needed in
order to prevent the collapse of deep-sea fishes and fisheries.
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article
Ecosystem Shift in the
Northern Bering Sea Driven by Climate Change
(20/04/06) A new research has assessed changes in
ecosystems in the Northern Bering Sea in response to climate change.
Results support the evidence of a reorganization of the marine
ecosystems driven by climate changes in the Arctic region. These
changes might have irreversible effects on Arctic marine mammal and
seabirds populations, and commercial and subsistence
fisheries. Download
article
Sustainability of
Mediterranean Marine Ecosystems (23/03/06) A recently
released report identifies major issues of concern for the marine
ecosystems in the Mediterranean region. The report concludes that
the top priorities to guarantee the sustainability of the marine
environment are the reinforcement of current and future
environmental legislation and the development of an integrated
ecosystem-based approach. Download
article
Importance of Mangrove
Plants for Global Carbon Cycle (09/03/06) An analysis of
the impact of mangrove plants on marine carbon inventories suggests
that the mangroves account for more than 10% of the terrestrially
derived dissolved organic carbon transported to the ocean, while
they cover only 0.1% of the continents? surface. The worldwide rapid
decline of mangroves could have potential consequences on the
atmospheric composition and the climate. Download
article
Environmental Impacts of
Fish Products (02/02/06) Danish researchers have
quantified the potential environmental impacts at all stages of the
life cycle of fish products: from fishing stage through transport,
processing, retail, and use phases to post-consumption waste
disposal. The obtained results emphasise the need for the promotion
of more sustainable fishing methods through fishery
regulations. Download
article
How to Reverse Fish
Decline in Rivers? (05/01/06) Scientists
identified three main causes of the ongoing decline in fish catches
in Switzerland: fisheries management relying upon stocking
practices, poor fish health related to parasitic diseases, and
habitat situation (presence of multiple man-made barriers and
degradation of water quality). The measures to be taken to reverse
the situation should be focused not on a single factor but on all
three of the identified priority issues. Download
article
Stable catch: warning for
future fishery collapse? (24/11/05) Analysis of the
dynamics of world fisheries suggests that a stable level of catch
over several years masks the risk of sudden collapse. This puts in
question the common assumption that considers the stability of catch
as a goal for fisheries sustainability. Download
article
Is it Possible to Decrease Noise Emissions from Road Traffic? (04/10/07)
Swedish researchers have recently analysed the potential for decreasing noise emissions
from road traffic in Europe. The report concludes that the technical potential exists to reduce
the emissions substantially and highlights the need for further political action as well as
research on road surfaces, and quieter tyres and vehicles.
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Noise and Research: an Updated EU Strategy Paper (05/07/07)
Noise pollution is a priority on the list of citizens' concerns and noise reduction has
increasingly become a focus for EU legislation and a priority for research initiatives. In this
context, the EU noise expert group recently presented an updated Strategy Paper for future
research to reduce environmental noise in Europe. The expert group concludes that
research is a key element in reducing the effects of high sound levels. Research should
cover aspects such as the assessment of noise exposure and perception, health impacts of
exposure to noise, noise abatement including cost-benefit aspects, new technologies and
system approaches for improved noise control at source and the further development of
legislative standards.
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Calculating Noise Charges in Railway Infrastructures (14/06/07)
Swedish researchers have recently explored how to determine railway-noise charges in the
European Union to promote the reduction of noise levels based on the marginal cost
principle. The authors conclude that it is possible to apply already existing knowledge of
monetary and acoustical noise evaluation to estimate infrastructure charges.
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How much are People willing to pay to reduce Noise Pollution? (25/01/07)
Spanish researchers have recently studied the dose-effect relationship between measured
road traffic noise and reported disturbance, and the social and economical valuation of noise
in a medium-sized city in Spain. The researchers found that up to 50% of the population
would be willing to pay money in order to reduce noise pollution. The results may be useful
when deciding what solutions should be adopted to reduce noise levels.
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Ship Noise: a significant Stress Factor for Freshwater Communities (21/12/06)
A recent Austrian study confirms that exposure to underwater noise pollution is a major source of stress for freshwater fish. The results show that ship noise can increase the secretion of stress hormones in fish by up to 120% in comparison with a no-noise situation. The authors emphasise that this biological response to man-made noise can have severe impacts on the growth and development of fish.
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The Environmental Cost of Aircraft Noise and Engine Emissions (19/10/06) Recent research has evaluated the environmental costs of both aircraft noise and engine emissions at different sized airports in Europe. The total environmental costs have been estimated to range from ?11 million to ?645 million per year depending on the airport size and traffic and operation characteristics. The results and methodology of environmental cost calculations presented in the paper could be applied to the proposed EU harmonised noise charges as well as to other social and economic benefit analyses of airports. Download
article
Aircraft Noise Affects Cognitive Performance in Children (18/05/06) European researchers have investigated the effects of exposure to aircraft and road traffic noise on cognitive performance and health in children. The results suggest that exposure to high levels of aircraft noise could impair the development of reading capacity and memory in children. Thus, schools exposed to high levels of aircraft noise are not healthy educational environments. Download
article Laboratory Experiments
for Noise Impact Assessments (06/04/06) Swedish
researchers have investigated whether there are differences in the
effects of road traffic noise on sleep between studies performed in
the laboratory and in field settings. The results suggest that
laboratory experiments do not exaggerate the effects of sleep
disturbances from road traffic noise. Download
article
Noise Increases the Risk
of Heart Diseases (12/01/06) Recent epidemiologic study
shows that long- term exposure to high traffic noise increases the
risk of cardiovascular diseases. Download
article
European Noise Thresholds
Put in Question (15/12/05) A recent study demonstrates
that lower noise exposure limit (55dB) used for the drawing up of
the maps of the major noise sources across EU leads to a large
underestimation of the noise annoyance indicators. Dropping of this
lower limit for the next round of noise mapping in 2012 will be
crucial to define adequate long-term noise pollution reduction
measures. Download
article
Are Environmental Factors contributing to the growing Incidence of Cancer? (11/10/07)
An international team of researchers has analysed the carcinogenic effect of certain environmental factors and their role in carcinogenesis. The results suggest that chemicals related with pollution are of critical importance. Of major concern is outdoor air pollution by carbon particles associated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The results suggest that the recent increase in cancer incidence could be largely related to changes in our environment.
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Living close to Power Lines may increase the Risk of Some Cancers (27/09/07)
According to a recent study, living close to high-voltage power lines for a long period may increase the risk of developing certain cancers later. In particular, people who lived less than 300m from a high-voltage power line during early childhood are up to five times more likely to develop cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma.
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Persistent Organic Pollutants in the Mediterranean Sea (05/07/07)
Spanish researches have recently assessed the contamination of the Mediterranean Sea by
certain Persistent Organic Pollutants using sediment concentrations as environmental
indicators. The results show a decreasing temporal trend in concentrations and that
chemical contamination mainly originates from land-based sources. Hot spots are usually
located along the northern coast-line. The authors also highlight important gaps of
knowledge and the need for more monitoring programmes to be set up in many riparian
countries.
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New insights into the Effects of Traffic-related Air Pollution on Health (01/02/07)
In a recent study, researchers have observed a significant association between exposure to
traffic-related air pollution and the incidence of otitis media in children. The findings may
have significant implications for public health.
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Five Grand Challenges to achieve Safe Nanotechnology(07/12/06)
An international group of scientists has identified five grand challenges for research into the safety of nanotechnology. The authors conclude that if the global research community takes advantage of the current research opportunities and rises to the challenges set in the study, it would be possible to realise the benefits of emerging technologies while minimizing potential risks.
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Risk to Health and the Environment of the Current Use of Lead (16/11/06)
A recent study has analysed the risks of the present uses of lead over time. The results show that the overall emission pattern will be stable in the coming decades. Nevertheless, more attention has to be paid to flows of lead during different waste treatment options. Furthermore, regarding exposure to lead emissions, there is a need for further information and testing of children.
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article
Urban Air Pollution - a Major Cause of Pollution-related Cancer (09/11/06)
A French scientist has reviewed the current epidemiological evidence linking exposure to pollutants with cancer. The author found that in Europe, outdoor air contaminants and indoor radon exposure seem to be the two most major causes of pollution-related cancer. The author calls for more research, as the number of studies on the health effects of non-occupational exposure to diverse environmental pollutants is still very limited.
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article
Mercury Contained in Fish may Contribute to Premature Birth (03/11/06)
According to a recent American study, eating too much fish during pregnancy could be linked to high mercury levels in mothers, which in turn could put women at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely. Nevertheless, more research is needed in order to further test the reported association.
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article
Does Transgenic Maize affect Soil Bacteria? (05/10/06) European scientists have recently studied the possible effects of genetically modified plants on soil microbial communities. The results suggest that the presence of transgenic maize influences the abundance and diversity of the soil bacteria and also the way their ecosystems behave. This may have relevant implications due to the highly critical role that soil micro-organisms play in agro-ecosystems. Download
article Potential Risks of Underground CO2 Storage (29/06/06) A recent study has reviewed current knowledge and gaps in knowledge regarding the health, environmental and safety risks of underground CO 2 storage. The study concludes that although different research activities are currently being undertaken, it is expected that further research will be necessary to provide enough data for a thorough risk assessment. The main objectives of future research include impacts on marine ecosystems and leakage of CO 2. Download
article Do Flame Retardants Pose a Risk to Health and the Environment? (22/06/06) Recent studies regarding the fate and potential risk to human health and the environment of different brominated flame retardant compounds have produced diverging results. While one of the studies has confirmed the safety of one type of compound, another provides new insights that could have profound implications for public health and for the current and future regulation of another type of flame retardants. Download
article Lifestyle Choices Affect Personal Exposure to Air Pollutants (15/06/06) Results from an EU research project demonstrate that lifestyle and personal choices, including commuting behaviour, determine the level of exposure to air pollutants in urban areas. The active support of the general public is needed to reduce population exposure as a further improvement to the level of air quality achieved through legislation. Download
article Standards and Quality Assurance Needed for Compost Products (01/06/06) Greek scientists have recently identified, registered and analysed different compost products available on the Greek market, and determined the level of compliance with the existing quality limit values established in different EU countries. The results suggest that, in countries with more tolerant limit values such as Greece, quality insurance procedures need to be established. Furthermore, the variability of limit values within the EU reveals a need to develop EU quality standards. Download
article A New Approach for Risk-based Characterisation of Polluted Soils (24/05/06) A recent study has analysed and interpreted the lead concentrations in urban upper soil in an industrialised city of England in terms of risk to human health. The authors mapped the probability of exceeding risk-based assessment criteria to analyse and interpret the collected surface soil lead concentrations. The study demonstrates that this approach has a valuable role to play in both land-use planning and environmental protection. Download
article Toxicity Assessment of
Aircraft De-Icer (11/05/06) American scientists
investigated the toxicity of the de-icing and anti-icing chemicals
used to remove ice and snow from aircrafts' surfaces. The results
suggest that the environmental risk of the various aircraft
anti-icing and de-icing components may be more difficult to assess
than previously estimated. Different unknown additives were
identified, some of which could represent a serious threat for the
local environment. Download
article
Life Expectancy Approach
to Assess Health Impacts of Air Pollution (27/04/06) A
French scientist has presented a new approach in performing and
interpreting epidemiological analyses to assess mortality impacts of
air pollution. It uses life expectancy in the place of mortality and
gives a deeper insight to quantify chronic effects of air
pollutants. Download
article
European Plant Diversity
is Threatened by Climate Change (16/03/06) An
international research team has investigated into the survival of
various European plant species under four hypothetical climate
change scenarios for the period 2051-2080. Their results suggest a
large risk of species extinction even under the most optimistic
scenario. Download
article
European Male Fertility
Affected by POP (16/03/06) European scientists have
investigated the possible negative effects of persistent organic
pollutants on male fertility. The results demonstrate that exposure
to polychlorinated biphenyls has a negative impact on human sperm
integrity in European male populations. Download
article
Towards EU List of
Priority Hazardous Pesticide Mixtures (15/12/05) European
researchers have recently developed a procedure aiming at defining a
list of the most hazardous pesticide mixtures that are likely to
occur in European surface waters. Such a list could be very useful
for the evaluation of the current control measures that are mostly
based on assessments of chemical risks focused on single pure
toxicants. Download
article
Safe Levels of Major Toxins
Unknown (05/12/05) An overview of the epidemiologic data
shows that there is no clearly safe level of exposure to four of the
most common environmental toxins - lead, radon, tobacco smoke and
byproducts of drinking-water disinfection. Download
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