| Hi Everybody,
My name is Jeannette and Iām really excited to be a new EwA intern! Iām new to this, but am thrilled to be part of EwAās wonderful community; we are doing something truly amazing.Ā |
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| This article discusses a proposed rule change that threatens the livelihoods of many animals. The Trump administration wants to redefine āharmā so it no longer includes destroying habitat, opening the door to logging and development on critical land. As Claire wrote, please submit a public comment here or contact your elected officials to oppose this serious threat. |
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| | šø A pair of bald eagles call out while resting on a tree next to Union Bay, Jan. 16, 2024, in Seattle. Ā© Credit: AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson |
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| | | šø An American copper butterfly Ā© Claire O'Neill, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC) | Earthwise Aware |
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One of the first studies into the global diversity and climate threats of an insect taxon showed that thousands of species might become extinct during this century. Researchers found that 64% of a vital mountain temperature niche for butterflies will erode if human action does not change. Participatory science has never been so vital - more data is needed to convince lawmakers to protect insects in their climate policies. Read more on this study here!Ā |
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| Existing (and potential) city habitats for pollinators face another threat. A new study shows that when plants accumulate toxic minerals in their soil, it is passed to insects consuming the plantsā nectar. These pollinators experience damage to their memory and health, leading to trouble foraging. Plant species vary in mineral uptake, but they all need us to protect their soil. See here for more details about this important matter for an era of biodiverse cities! |
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| | šø Round-lobed hepatica Ā© Claire O'Neill, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC) | Earthwise Aware |
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| | | šø A hawksbill turtle off Indonesia Ā© Ben Hamilton / Oceanic Society via AP file |
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Despite the above threats to biodiversity, the tortoise pulls ahead of the hare! Species like the leatherback are still in danger, and all turtles still get caught in netting, but hope shines vibrantly. The green turtle population, among others, is recovering in many regions of the world. Turtle-safe nets are being developed and could be used regularly with the push of our determined voices. Read this article for proof that patient and steadfast wins the race! |
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| Researchers have also made promising strides in creating sustainable food packaging. Cellulose is a plant-based material that is almost perfect for packaging. Itās abundant and biodegradable, but its structure is not strong enough untreated. Researchers found that multiple low-pressure cycles allow cellulose to become stronger, more transparent, and useful. Read here to see how cellulose can be a promising start to a zero-waste age!Ā |
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| | šø (a) Surface SEM images (1000 x); and (b) roughness (Sa) of CNFs Ā© Credit: Carbohydrate Polymer Technologies and Applications (2025).Ā |
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| | | šø Adult periodical cicadas cling to a tree branch at Morton Arboretum in Illinois, June 6, 2024 Ā© (Carolyn Kaster/AP)Ā |
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| This year, periodical cicadas will come out in May to celebrate after 17 years underground. Cicadas have evolved side-by-side with native plant species - females make slits in tree branches for their eggs, often killing the host branch, a āpruningā that can keep trees healthy. Faced with modern threats, this group, Brood XIV, has been losing population. Understanding and collecting data on these insects is crucial for the Earth and thrilling. So let's get out and bug! |
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| Thank you for reading my first News Digest. Happy Spring, and Happy Naturalisting! |
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| | - JeannetteEarthwise Aware | Spring Intern |
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