By Evangeline Wilby Conserving biodiversity, protecting species from extinction, and restoring habitats to allow ecosystems to thrive are amongst the key aims of conservation research and ecological scientists. However, saving as much as we can, as quickly as we can may not be the most effective long-term solution. Conservation needs a holistic approach, with interdisciplinaryContinue reading “The Importance of Including Indigenous Local Communities in Conservation Efforts“
Category Archives: Environmental Sciences
The potential for marine eco-engineering
By Rachel Chan Coastal regions are densely populated, with much of recent human population growth occurring within these areas (Martínez et al., 2007). As a result, the phenomenon of “ocean sprawl” is becoming increasingly prevalent. Ocean sprawl refers to the replacement of natural marine environments with artificial structures (Firth et al., 2016). With growing coastalContinue reading “The potential for marine eco-engineering“
Coral Bleaching
By Katherine Bethell Marine invertebrates called coral are essential for maintaining the health of the world’s oceans; they provide a habitat for a diverse range of plant and animal species whilst protecting coastal areas by absorbing wave power. However, the so-called bleaching of coral threatens its survival and function globally. Bleaching is characterised by theContinue reading “Coral Bleaching”
On food diets, carbon footprints and health: a complex issue
By Clemence Blanchard Whether or not we are aware – or care – about it, food contributes substantially to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In spite of this, food remains at the center of our lives, health and culture-wise – and will continue to do so in the future. This issue is currently exacerbated by our growingContinue reading “On food diets, carbon footprints and health: a complex issue”
How stable carbon isotope analysis can help to protect marine species
By Evangeline Wilby Stable carbon isotope analysis (CIA) is a chemical approach used to uncover the past of marine organisms, which promises to be invaluable for predicting and protecting their future (Haywood et al., 2019). The Natural History Museum has used this approach to determine the movements of a 4.5 tonne blue whale, nicknamed ‘Hope’,Continue reading “How stable carbon isotope analysis can help to protect marine species”
The unsustainable fear of insects
By Tamara Claire Fernandez A fear of insects is hardly uncommon. In extreme cases of uncontrollable and irrational fear, patients are medically diagnosed with entomophobia (Shahriari-Namadi, Tabatabaei & Soltani, 2018). However, it can be argued that even the average person’s aversion to insects possesses a similar element of irrationality. While the evolution of human disgustContinue reading “The unsustainable fear of insects”
Does the noise of the cities stop birds from singing?
By Adriana Ramos Calvo The term “behavioural plasticity” can be defined as a change in an organism’s behaviour as a result of exposure to external or internal stimuli and has been thought to reduce extinction risk in birds. This theory, however, has not been fully accepted since global evidence supporting it is limited. A recentContinue reading “Does the noise of the cities stop birds from singing?”
Imperial Bioscience Review 