Scientists have long known that chimpanzees sometimes use leaves or insects as medicine. Now, researchers studying chimpanzees in Uganda have discovered that the animals will sometimes provide "first aid" to each other. This suggests that chimpanzees may be able to think about how to help others, as well as themselves.
Published in “Environment”
Last year, the world lost more forests than ever before. The biggest cause of this loss was fires. Land clearing for farming and other human activities was also a major cause. The results are very worrying for the planet, which relies on forests to help fight climate change.
On Earth Day - April 22 - the XPrize announced the winners of its Carbon Removal contest. A company called Mati Carbon won the $50 million prize. Their method is simple, but it could remove huge amounts of carbon dioxide and also help farmers grow more food.
Yesterday was the 55th celebration of Earth Day. This year's theme was "Our Power, Our Planet", with a focus on how rapidly growing renewable energy sources are promising hope in the fight against the climate crisis.
In January, an iceberg as large as Chicago separated from an ice shelf in Antarctica. By chance, a scientific research ship was nearby. The scientists jumped at the rare chance to study an area of the ocean floor that had been covered by ice for thousands of years. What they found surprised them.
Scientists in Australia have used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help them locate a rare bird called the Plains-wanderer. This new information will help scientists protect the birds, which are endangered.
Last year, the US got more of its electricity from wind and solar power than from coal. It's the first time that's ever happened, and it shows how quickly the US is moving toward cleaner energy sources. Because renewable energy is so cheap, it will probably continue to grow, despite President Donald Trump's push to increase fossil fuel use.
Scientists at Penn State University used an unusual method to track honey bees. By placing tiny QR codes on the backs of the bees, the researchers can keep track of when the bees leave and return to their hives. The work will help scientists learn more about how bees collect food and how far they travel.
A new study shows that the number of butterflies in the United States has dropped by 22% over 20 years. The loss of butterflies could have serious effects on the environment and on US farms. Scientists say it's important to protect butterflies and other insects before it's too late.
It was incredibly cold across much of the US last month, but scientists report that worldwide, it was the hottest January ever recorded. As heat records continue to be broken, some researchers believe global warming could be speeding up. Not all scientists agree.
The government of the Marshall Islands has protected a huge area of ocean around two remote atolls. The step is designed to protect important marine and bird life, and to help scientists learn more about the area. The government says it's their first marine protected area (MPA), but it won't be their last.