The surprising way plastics could actually help fight climate change
Switching from petroleum-based polymers to polymers that are biologically based could decrease carbon emissions by hundreds of millions of tons every year.
Category: "The Conversation"
How a scientist says he made a gene-edited baby – and what health worries may ensue
There is no doubt that precise genetic modifications can be made to human sperm, eggs, embryos and even some cells in adults.
Better forest management won't end wildfires, but it can reduce the risks – here's how
Like other natural hazards, wildfire cannot fully be prevented. However, it is not only possible but urgent to prepare for it, and to get people out of harm’s way when conditions are life-threatening.
A sharing economy for plants: Seed libraries are sprouting up
Today, thanks to intellectual property rights and often well-intentioned laws, our ability to share seeds is restricted.
Coloradans reject restrictions on drilling distances from homes and schools
Given the concerns we’ve heard from homeowners in our research, the defeat of the fracking measure demonstrates the industry’s economic power and political clout.
Two economic policies likely to change with Democrats in control of House
Economic issues on which the election outcome will make a meaningful difference: trade and infrastructure.
New findings on ocean warming: 5 questions answered
What this study suggests is that the climate is more sensitive to greenhouse gases than we previously thought.
One way to reduce food waste: Use it to make soil healthier
Diverting food byproducts back to the farm, where they can help retain water and nutrients, is a way to make our food system more efficient.
How do colleges use affirmative action? Even some activists don't understand
Both sides of the debate had a flawed understanding of fundamental aspects of how affirmative action is practiced in the United States.
How is 'new NAFTA' different? A trade expert explains
Updating rules and standards to keep up with the times is a critical and positive update to the trade deal tying the North American continent together.