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 …
An earthquake in early March in New Jersey, initially measured at 2.2, is now seen as a foreshock to the magnitude 4.8 quake felt in early April, followed by over 50 aftershocks. Foreshocks are rare, but they hinted at the larger event. Aftershocks are common, with around 30 occurring the day after the main quake, expected to continue for weeks. …
Rutgers scientists point to improved environmental conditions as possible reason The Atlantic surf clam, an economically valuable species that is the main ingredient in clam chowder and fried clam strips, has returned to Virginia waters in a big way, reversing a die-off that started more than two decades ago. In a comprehensive study of surf clams collected from an area …
Windows of Understanding is a series of art pieces that aim to shine light on various social justice organizations. The recent window, created by Amee Pollack, was inspired by this year’s RCEI Climate Symposium. The Window depicts children searching outdoors with magnifying glasses, which is meant to signify searching for solutions to the climate crisis. She chose to use children …
The Board of Trustees of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation announced their appointment of their 2024 Fellowships. Chosen through a rigorous application and peer review process the Class of 2024 Guggenheim Fellows was tapped on the basis of prior career achievement and exceptional promise. Each fellow receives a monetary stipend to pursue independent work at the highest level. Selected …
