Beach sand ripples can be fingerprints for ancient weather conditions
Experiments show shifting ripple patterns can signal times of environmental flux.
How Earth sheds heat into space
New insights into the role of water vapor may help researchers predict how the planet will respond to warming.
Study: Emissions from most diesel cars in Europe greatly exceed laboratory testing levels
Real-world driving produces up to 16 times more emissions, causing 2,700 premature deaths across the EU, researchers estimate.
An extinction without warning
Study finds end-Permian extinction, which wiped out most of Earth’s species, was instantaneous in geological time.
A new way to remove ice buildup without power or chemicals
Passive solar-powered system could prevent freezing on airplanes, wind turbines, powerlines, and other surfaces.
New approach makes sprayed droplets hit and stick to their targets
Using a simple mesh screen may allow farmers to dramatically reduce the amount of pesticides they spray.
Krithika Ramchander and Andrea Beck awarded J-WAFS fellowships for water solutions
Graduate students receive J-WAFS fellowships to support research focused on improving water access for rural as well as urban communities.
How Africans developed scientific knowledge of the deadly tsetse fly
New book by MIT Associate Professor Clapperton Chakanetsa Mavhunga explores science in action in Africa.
The price of the pledge
MIT researchers examine Turkey to assess the impact of 2015 Paris climate commitments on a national economy.
Environmental regulation in a polarized culture
Doctoral student Parrish Bergquist investigates how politics affects environmental decision-making.
Study finds climate determines shapes of river basins
Results may help identify ancient climates on Earth or other planets.
3Q: Julie Newman on MIT’s pioneering solar purchase
MIT’s sustainability director describes how 2016 effort has inspired Boston and other cities.
A solution for urban storm flooding
Engineered green spaces can capture and purify stormwater while delivering ecosystem and recreational benefits, MIT researchers report.
Where economics and materials science meet
Postdoc Michele Bustamante wins Congressional Fellowship for her research analyzing supply risks and cost dynamics for key metals in high technology.
Cooling buildings worldwide
Analysis points the way to energy-efficient systems that take a location-specific approach to cooling and dehumidifying places where people live and work.