A recent viral instagram post shows a timelapse of satellite images of urban development near the coast in Tulum, Mexico, from 1984 to 2022. While the position of the coastline appears to waver a bit, it does not obviously move inland. The caption preceded to imply that climate change is a hoax. Experts replied to this post explaining that a …
A study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences warns that the 2023 snow deluge that ended California’s megadrought was a rare event, unlikely to occur frequently due to climate change. The study authors coined the term “snow deluge” for one-in-20-year heavy snowfalls, when it’s cold and wet enough to maintain a deep snowpack through April 1. The study …
The article reports on a small earthquake that occurred in Peapack-Gladstone, New Jersey, and its aftershocks. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 2.4, struck in the early hours of the morning, causing minimal damage and no injuries. This earthquake was one of the aftershocks from the 4.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the region on April 5. Scientists said the initial …
University to test renewable energy system on a working farm with animals and crops Rutgers University has selected Sunzaun, a vertical solar system for farms developed by solar installer Sunstall Inc., for an agrivoltaics project at its farm on Cook campus. The farm at Rutgers University–New Brunswick operates as a hybrid of production farm, research facility and teaching operation in …
New policies and broader subsides are needed to help lower-income buyers afford used electric vehicles, according to a Rutgers study As early adopters of electric vehicles (EVs) trade up for the latest models, the used EV market is beginning to mature in the United States. Yet many potential buyers, particularly low-income drivers, are skeptical of EVs’ conveniences and are put off by …
Entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley are attempting to pioneer solar geoengineering to combat climate change by reflecting sunlight. Startups like Luke Iseman’s Make Sunsets launch balloons filled with sulfur dioxide and helium into the stratosphere, seeking to offset warming. However, the lack of regulations raises concerns about unforeseen risks. RCEI Affiliate Alan Robock, emphasizes the need for thorough research and global …
In 2024, New Jersey experienced frequent rain, wind, and dreary days, sparking discussions about increased windiness. Residents report more potent and frequent winds, with many sharing anecdotes of fallen branches and damaged property. However, climatologist and RCEI Affiliate David Robinson notes that while recent years have seen more windy days, it’s challenging to discern long-term trends due to limited historical …
Congratulations to RCEI affiliate Ashaki Rouff on being chosen for a 2024-25 Cheryl Wall Faculty Fellowship. This prestigious honor recognizes full-time faculty addressing diversity issues at Rutgers University. The full list of fellows can be found here.
Following new studies, so-called “giant viruses” are believed to have been important in the early stages of life on Earth, based on research conducted at Yellowstone hot springs. Scientists, including RCEI Affiliate Debashish Bhattacharya, found evidence of ancient viral activity, suggesting these viruses could have influenced the development of early microscopic life forms. Previously, researchers assumed none of the giant …
Scientists are installing seismometers near New Jersey’s recent earthquake epicenter to monitor aftershocks and study fault movements. Geologists are intrigued by the unusual event and aim to identify the fault responsible. RCEI Affiliate, Ken Miller emphasized the importance of these seismometers. He stated “With enough seismometers, we will be able to pinpoint this with some of the aftershocks that are …
