The hottest Conservation Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Science Topics

Whales Die, While Officials, Media, and Environmentalists Lie

RESCUE with Michael Capuzzo β€’ 7567 implied HN points β€’ 28 Jun 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Conservation Renewable Energy Environmental Impact Global Warming
  1. Whales are dying along the East Coast due to offshore wind turbines and oil & gas drilling, raising concerns about environmental impacts.
  2. There is uncertainty and disagreement among experts and agencies about the connection between offshore wind activities and whale deaths.
  3. Offshore wind projects may have limited impact on global emissions and climate change, but they are still considered integral for state plans.

Rising Tides, Falling Freshwater: The Saltwater Intrusion Crisis

Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 312 implied HN points β€’ 21 Dec 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Ecosystems Biodiversity Climate change Conservation
  1. Saltwater intrusion is a growing problem worldwide, affecting freshwater supplies in many coastal areas. It's happening due to rising sea levels and climate change.
  2. This issue can harm ecosystems by increasing salinity, leading to the extinction of various plant and animal species. Many species are already at risk, which could worsen climate change further.
  3. To combat saltwater intrusion, countries should protect natural areas like wetlands and mangroves. These can help keep saltwater out of freshwater supplies and support local wildlife.

No, Kerosene did NOT save the Sperm Whale

Material World β€’ 1323 implied HN points β€’ 30 Dec 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Conservation Ecology Wildlife Sustainability Natural resources
  1. Sperm whales have unique features, like the biggest heads and brains among large animals. They are incredible divers and eat mysterious creatures from the ocean's depths.
  2. Whale oil was popular because it made great lantern fuel and was used in various industries. Even after kerosene was discovered, the hunting of sperm whales actually increased due to new uses for their oil.
  3. Whale populations only recovered significantly after international bans on whaling and the development of synthetic substitutes for whale oil. It shows that technology and regulations are important for conservation.

Deforestation in the Amazon has halved in the last few years

Sustainability by numbers β€’ 266 implied HN points β€’ 18 Dec 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Conservation Deforestation Sustainability Biodiversity Climate change
  1. Deforestation in the Amazon has significantly decreased, halving over the past few years, thanks to new policies and leadership.
  2. Lula da Silva's administration has made real progress in reducing forest loss, following a troubling period of increased deforestation under the previous president.
  3. While the trend is positive, challenges remain and ongoing efforts are crucial to meet the target of ending deforestation by 2030.
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Echoes of Extinction: A Funeral March for Species

Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 104 implied HN points β€’ 04 Jan 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Biodiversity Climate change Ecosystems Conservation
  1. Many animal species are dying off, often due to climate change. This not only affects those specific animals but also the plants and ecosystems that rely on them.
  2. The death of single species, like flying foxes and corals, can disrupt the balance of nature. These losses can lead to problems like reduced food sources for other species and a drop in biodiversity.
  3. To prevent more animal deaths, we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create environments that can adapt to changes in the climate.

High Water and Lake Washington

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 279 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jun 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Ecology Restoration Conservation Biodiversity
  1. Lake Washington's water level is controlled artificially now, which is different from how it used to fluctuate naturally by as much as nine feet each year. This change was mainly due to the building of the Lake Washington Ship Canal in 1916.
  2. The current management of the lake helps local properties but is not good for the environment. Plants that normally thrive with seasonal changes are struggling because they can't grow properly in the constant water level.
  3. Union Bay has seen a lot of restoration work from being a dump to a vibrant natural space. It shows that even after mistakes, communities can come together to create a healthier ecosystem.

Fractured Planet: Glaciers Thawing, Rivers Running Dry, Reefs Vanishing

Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 208 implied HN points β€’ 16 Nov 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Global Warming Ecosystems Conservation Biodiversity Climate change
  1. Glaciers are melting at alarming rates, with many disappearing completely. This is a big concern for water supply and ecosystems.
  2. Rivers around the world are drying up, with thousands vanishing completely in recent decades. This can affect agriculture, drinking water, and wildlife.
  3. Coral reefs are facing serious threats, with significant losses in the past few decades. If we don't act now, most coral reefs could be gone by the end of the century.

The Possibility of Pikas

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 419 implied HN points β€’ 02 May 24
πŸ”¬ Science Biology Ecology Conservation Wildlife Climate
  1. Pikas are small mammals that usually live in rocky areas at high elevations, but some have been found at lower elevations, like the Columbia River Gorge. These unique habitats help them survive despite the warmer climate.
  2. Researchers found that moss plays an important role for pikas at lower elevations by keeping them cooler and happier. Moss helps create a nice environment for these little creatures as temperatures can often be too hot for them.
  3. Pikas are adapting to their new lower habitats by spending less energy storing food for winter and more time in the shade of trees. This shows they might have the ability to adjust to climate change better than some other animals.

taylor swift made fox news care about climate change

Airplane Mode with Liz Plank β€’ 864 implied HN points β€’ 01 Feb 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Conservation Policy Media
  1. Fox News has acknowledged the reality of carbon emissions after reporting on Taylor Swift's private jet use.
  2. Private jets contribute significantly to carbon emissions, with celebrities like Swift producing much more than the average person.
  3. Progressives have proposed various solutions to address private jet emissions, but face resistance from conservatives.

β€œStop using wild San Pedro”: 5 Questions for Josip Orlovac Del Río

The Microdose β€’ 845 implied HN points β€’ 22 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Spirituality Conservation
  1. San Pedro, a cactus containing mescaline, is threatened by factors like poaching and climate change.
  2. It's crucial for communities to cultivate their own medicine to build a sustainable relationship with the plant.
  3. Global interest in psychedelics like San Pedro must be managed to protect both the plant and its cultural traditions.

The Birding Edition

Why is this interesting? β€’ 1266 implied HN points β€’ 06 Mar 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Ecology Biodiversity Conservation Birding
  1. Birdwatching can be a rewarding hobby that connects us with nature and can lead to deep emotional connections with birds.
  2. Ecological grief is a real and intense response to environmental losses, including bird deaths caused by human-driven changes.
  3. Efforts like building natural bridges and enacting bird-friendly legislation demonstrate steps we can take to protect wild animals amidst ongoing environmental challenges.

Fully Recharged

The Crucial Years β€’ 1684 implied HN points β€’ 04 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Renewable Energy Conservation Sustainability Environmental Impact Climate Crisis
  1. Batteries have greatly improved energy density over the last century, making them more practical for cars and other uses.
  2. The rapid progress in battery technology is expected to continue, with increasing energy density, affordability, and innovation.
  3. Efforts are being made to ensure ethical sourcing of materials for batteries, address social inequities, and push for sustainable growth in the battery industry.

Tides of Trouble: Fish Populations face Challenges in Numerous Basins

Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 104 implied HN points β€’ 30 Nov 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Biodiversity Conservation Ecosystems Sustainability
  1. Fish populations in the Amazon, Gulf of Guinea, and Mediterranean Sea are declining dramatically. This decline is alarming as it threatens the species and the ecosystems they support.
  2. These bodies of water also play a vital role in absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. As fish populations decrease, their ability to help combat climate change through carbon sequestration is reduced.
  3. To tackle these challenges, we need to protect fish habitats, reduce overfishing, and take action against climate change. It's important for the health of our oceans and the planet.

Rhapsody in Ruin: Climate Change's Devastating Impacts on Animal Habitats

Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 104 implied HN points β€’ 02 Nov 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Biodiversity Conservation Environmental Impact
  1. Frog habitats are drying up due to climate change, with many facing drought conditions that could make them unlivable by the end of the century.
  2. Elephants are struggling with rising temperatures and food shortages, forcing them to travel far for water and forage, which can lead to conflicts with humans.
  3. Koala populations are declining as their habitats experience extreme heat and bushfires, putting them at risk of losing large areas of their home by 2070.

A few seconds of video

The Crucial Years β€’ 1574 implied HN points β€’ 08 Sep 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Natural Disasters Environmental Policy Biodiversity Conservation
  1. The video illustrates the impact of climate change through unprecedented floods in Greece.
  2. The urgency to take action against climate change is emphasized, as we witness extreme weather events becoming more common.
  3. Global efforts to meet climate targets, such as the Paris Agreement, are falling short and require more substantial commitments.

Whether the Storm

Field Guide to the Anthropocene β€’ 393 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Conservation Environmental justice Biodiversity Sustainability
  1. In the Anthropocene era, humans must protect and restore the Earth given our excessive impact on its ecosystems.
  2. We need to become rational and compassionate managers of the planet to address climate change and ecological disruptions.
  3. Storms, while disruptive and dangerous, also serve as a reminder of our place in nature and the need to prepare for managing the impacts of extreme weather.

Endangered Promises

Field Guide to the Anthropocene β€’ 393 implied HN points β€’ 12 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Conservation Legislation Biodiversity Climate change Environmental Impact
  1. The Endangered Species Act has had successes in saving various species from extinction over the years.
  2. There is a growing resistance against the Endangered Species Act, largely driven by political and industry interests.
  3. Challenges facing the ESA include legislative and judicial attacks, as well as the broader threat of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Tracing a Tragedy

The Forgotten Files β€’ 334 implied HN points β€’ 31 Jan 24
πŸ’Ύ History Conservation Wildlife Extinction
  1. William T. Hornaday highlighted the tragic extinction of American Bison and its causes in his report.
  2. The extinction of bison was driven by factors like man's greed, lack of protective measures, and advanced firearms.
  3. Hornaday's efforts led to his influential role in wildlife preservation and saving species from extinction.

Small Islands

rachaelmeager β€’ 337 implied HN points β€’ 21 Feb 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Human Rights Environmental justice Conservation Cultural impact
  1. Forced resettlement of people for conservation can lead to serious ethical concerns, as it may be viewed as a form of genocide by those affected. It's crucial to balance conservation goals with human rights.
  2. Many people engage in activism mainly for emotional reasons, which can lead to a mix of real concern and performative actions that don’t address the actual issues. Understanding our true motives can help us engage more sincerely.
  3. Smaller crises in the world often get overlooked in favor of larger, more dramatic issues. We should pay attention to these smaller problems, as they are real and affect real people, and acknowledging them allows for a better understanding of larger-scale issues.

Economic Ornithology

Bird History β€’ 379 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jan 24
πŸ”¬ Science Ornithology Conservation Agriculture Research History
  1. Before pesticides, birds were valued by farmers for their role in controlling bugs on crops, and economic ornithologists calculated the precise worth of each bird in dollars.
  2. The Bureau of Biological Survey was established to study the economic impact of birds on agriculture, shifting focus to quantify the benefits and drawbacks of various bird species on crops.
  3. Studies conducted by economic ornithologists resulted in a widespread belief in the economic significance of birds in pest control, but the field eventually lost credibility as pesticides and modern agricultural practices took over.

First Contact!

Technohumanism β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 24 Jul 24
πŸ•Ή Technology AI Robotics Machine Learning Communication Conservation
  1. CETI is using advanced technology to understand sperm whales' communication. This shows how AI can help us connect with other species.
  2. There's a humorous aspect to this first contact, highlighting the unexpected ways we might communicate with animals.
  3. The idea raises questions about the limits and responsibilities of using AI in understanding and interacting with wildlife.

A Right to Be in this World

Field Guide to the Anthropocene β€’ 334 implied HN points β€’ 19 Jan 24
πŸ”¬ Science Environment Biodiversity Conservation Climate Technology
  1. All living things have a right to exist in this world according to the Endangered Species Act.
  2. Conservation efforts need more support to combat political and industry threats to environmental protections.
  3. Future of the ESA requires broader landscape-scale conservation, increased funding, and alignment with modern conservation strategies.

Happy Thanksgiving

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 419 implied HN points β€’ 23 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Personal Reflection Local history Conservation
  1. Hope is important during Thanksgiving and we should strive for a just and equitable world.
  2. Nature plays a big role in our lives, whether it's hiking in beautiful places or enjoying the sights and sounds of urban wildlife like coyotes.
  3. It's essential to appreciate the little things around us, like unique plants and animals, and share our experiences with others.

Water as Lens

The Crucial Years β€’ 1145 implied HN points β€’ 28 Jul 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Environmental Impact Plastic Pollution Fossil fuels Conservation
  1. Water can be a powerful lens to explore issues of memory, resilience, and environmental impact.
  2. The film by dream hampton about Detroit highlights the flooding's impact on communities and memories.
  3. Specific histories of unfairness compound devastation in places like Detroit, emphasizing the importance of addressing systemic issues.

Tails of the City: Part 1

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 419 implied HN points β€’ 31 Aug 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Ecology Urban Nature Conservation
  1. Cattails are really useful plants that have been used for many things like making mats, pillows, and even food. They grow well in wetlands and can be found along roadsides.
  2. Seattle has lost many wetlands due to development, but there are efforts to bring some areas back to a wetland-like state. Wetlands are important for the health of the environment and many species.
  3. Despite the benefits of wetlands, there are still challenges to their protection, with some recent laws making it easier to harm them. It's important to recognize how valuable they are for both nature and people.

The Memory of a Tree

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 439 implied HN points β€’ 20 Jul 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Conservation Ecology Urban Nature Cultural heritage Community
  1. Western red cedars are very important to the Indigenous people, who use them to make many items, from canoes to hats. These trees are seen as a source of life and culture.
  2. Trees like the Wedgwood cedar hold memories of the past. They witness changes in the environment and community, connecting the present to history.
  3. Cutting down the Wedgwood cedar would mean losing a piece of nature and the stories it holds. These trees are not just plants; they carry the life and memories of the area around them.

The man who invented a time machine

The Crucial Years β€’ 876 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jun 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Renewable Energy Sustainability Climate Science Conservation Global impact
  1. John Goodenough, who invented a powerful lithium-ion battery, helped keep the Texas power grid run smoothly during a heatwave.
  2. Batteries like the ones Goodenough invented are crucial for storing solar power and preventing energy crises.
  3. The use of batteries is growing worldwide to support renewable energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Nature to the North

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 359 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jul 23
πŸ”¬ Science Biology Ecology Wildlife Conservation Environmental
  1. Seeing hundreds of bald eagles feeding at once is a spectacular sight. They gather to feast on fish when conditions are just right.
  2. Some tree stumps can stay alive and continue to grow even after being cut down. This shows how interconnected nature can be through shared resources.
  3. Sea stars, which faced a severe disease, are now showing signs of recovery. Those that survived may pass on stronger genes to help their species adapt.

Payback time

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) β€’ 119 implied HN points β€’ 28 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Travel DIY Conservation Personal Growth
  1. A connection with nature, like watching sea turtles, can have unexpected and rewarding impacts on our lives. It can lead to personal growth and new adventures.
  2. DIY projects can quickly become overwhelming, especially when unexpected issues arise, like discovering a poorly done floor. Planning can change, and flexibility is key.
  3. Learning to fix things yourself can be a valuable experience, but it often comes with challenges and surprises that test your skills and patience.

Otters in our Midst

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 279 implied HN points β€’ 28 Sep 23
πŸ”¬ Science Zoology Ecology Urban wildlife Conservation Environmental Science
  1. Otters are important urban wildlife and their poop, called spraint, can tell us a lot about their diet and health. Researchers study spraint to understand what otters eat and to check for parasites or pollution.
  2. River otters tend to be clean and use specific spots, called latrines, to poop. This behavior might be social, but researchers aren't completely sure why they do it.
  3. Even in polluted areas, river otters are resilient and continue to survive and reproduce. It's important for us to help make urban environments healthier for wildlife.