There is some good news for the environment
by, Sarah Krolewski
Much of today’s news portrays bleak hope for the future of the environment, but recent research efforts have revealed that our planet is in no way a lost cause and that old ways of doing things can be improved.
Solar Panels
The journal Joule just released a study showing how solar panels that last only ten years can still have a positive impact on the earth. It was previously thought that it was not worthwhile to invest in short-lived solar panels, and instead, people should opt for panels that last up to twenty-five years. This study states that by focusing on short-lived solar panels, individual panels can be periodically replaced as they get old without having to replace the entire system. This means that more solar panels can be produced more cheaply, and that the panels can be recycled once newer models come out.
Flood Resistant Crops
A study posted in Science recently revealed that it could be possible to modify plants to become more resistant to flooding. By looking at the cells in the roots of rice (currently the only crop that can withstand flooding) researchers proved that all plants have cells that can help resist flooding. Currently, The University of California, the conductor of this experiment, is working on developing crops that can mimic rice’s ability to withstand floods. This may prove especially important in coming years as water levels rise.
Food Security
Genetic mutations have dominated the fresh section of the grocery store in recent decades. That may sound scary, but it is actually quite common; a couple well-known examples of genetically modified foods (GMOs) are corn and soybeans. Research posted in Science suggests that by modifying crop DNA farmers can increase crop yields and help crops survive in difficult weather. In coming years, land will be scarce as the population grows and demand for housing grows in turn, crops that can withstand disaster and grow quickly will be important.
Coral Reefs
Reefs are known for their beauty and species diversity. Unfortunately, even they have been affected by climate change; however, a new study in Nature reveals that if the reefs are made a priority in tackling climate change, the rest of the puzzle pieces will fall into place.
In order to save the reefs many different things would need to be done: one of those things being reducing greenhouse gases. An article in USA Today states that in the late 1900’s Jamaica’s coral reefs faced almost complete destruction at the hands of humans. Today, after much careful maintenance, the reefs are finally making a comeback and the fish are beginning to return.
This information may be uplifting, but it does not mean it is time to relax and return to our old ways. If anything, this information is proof that we are doing something right and should continue to do so.