Increased deforestation and the Amazon basin rainfall
Researchers report that continued deforestation of the Amazon rainforest could diminish rainfall levels in the Amazon River basin, which may impact the region’s climate, ecosystems and economies.
Environment News
New £20 million research programme to deepen understanding of Africa’s changing climate
A UK government-funded initiative will put £20 million behind research to better understand Africa’s changing climate and the use of climate change information in decision-making across the continent.
Climate research a highlight in new NERC funding
The University of Leeds has been awarded £3 million by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) to shed light on why the climate is warming at an uneven rate with pronounced pauses and surges.
How can we build wildlife-friendly roads and railways?
Scientists behind new research into the effects of transport infrastructure on biodiversity have developed much-needed approaches to protect wildlife.
Offshore wind farms could be more risky for gannets than previously thought
Offshore wind farms which are to be built in waters around the UK could pose a greater threat to protected populations of gannets than previously thought, research led by the University of Leeds says.
Icelandic volcano’s toxic gas is treble that of Europe’s industry
A huge volcanic eruption in Iceland emitted on average three times as much of a toxic gas as all European industry combined, a study led by the University of Leeds has revealed.
Ocean life triggers ice formation in clouds
Researchers have shown for the first time that phytoplankton (plant life) in remote ocean regions can contribute to rare airborne particles that trigger ice formation in clouds.
Study finds only 44% of people in England capable of getting to work by walking or cycling
Most people in England could not get work without motorised modes of transport, according to new research by the University of Leeds.
Bats wake up and smell the coffee
Intensive agriculture is taking a toll on bats in the Western Ghats of India, but shade-grown coffee, remnant rainforest patches and riverine vegetation strips may help struggling species hang on.
Scientists warn of the risk from air pollution over the megacities of West Africa
A new study warns of the risks posed by the increasing air pollution over the cities of West Africa - amid fears it could have an impact on human health, meteorology and regional climate.