3 Questions: Ernest Moniz on the future of climate and energy under the Biden-Harris administration
Former US energy secretary discusses opportunities and challenges with MITEI Director Robert Armstrong.
Boosting the efficiency of carbon capture and conversion systems
New design could speed reaction rates in electrochemical systems for pulling carbon out of power plant emissions.
Rock magnetism uncrumples the Himalayas’ complex collision zone
MIT EAPS researchers find the impressive mountain range formed over a series of impacts, not a single event, as previously thought.
Aerosols from pollution, desert storms, and forest fires may intensify thunderstorms
Researchers identify a mechanism by which small particles in the atmosphere can generate more frequent thunderstorms.
MIT oceanographers have an explanation for the Arctic’s puzzling ocean turbulence
New study suggests waters will become more turbulent as Arctic loses summertime ice.
Case studies show climate variation linked to rise and fall of medieval nomadic empires
Recent virtual lecture explores how paleoclimatology provides important context for examining the activities of past human societies.
Field geology at a distance
As part of NASA’s Mars 2020 mission, Professor Tanja Bosak helps determine the best samples to bring home for clues about life 4 billion years ago.
An escape route for seafloor methane
Leakage from frozen layers was a puzzle, but a new study shows how the potent greenhouse gas breaks through icy barriers.
Massive, swift federal investment needed to address climate change, panelists say
Policymakers are hopeful that a Biden administration will encourage congressional action.
Transatlantic research and study collaboration continues amid the pandemic
MIT and Imperial College London to tackle dual challenges of climate and pollution through new seed fund focus.
Universities should lead the way on climate action, MIT panelists say
An online symposium explores roles for research universities and outlines the Institute’s efforts to be a testbed for research and policy innovations.
Antarctic sea ice may not cap carbon emissions as much as previously thought
Study suggests sea ice blocks the flow of carbon both into and out of the ocean, in roughly equal measure.
Revamped MIT Climate Portal aims to inform and empower the public
Website hosts an expanded suite of digital tools and resources to help people make sense of climate change.
Did our early ancestors boil their food in hot springs?
Scientists have found evidence of hot springs near sites where ancient hominids settled, long before the control of fire.
Study: A plunge in incoming sunlight may have triggered “Snowball Earths”
Findings also suggest exoplanets lying within habitable zones may be susceptible to ice ages.