Bird flu is infecting more mammals. What does that mean for us?
| nytimes.com
H5N1, an avian flu virus, has killed tens of thousands of marine mammals, and infiltrated American livestock for the first time. Scientists are working quickly to assess how it is evolving and how much of a risk it poses to humans. This article quotes Troy Sutton, assistant professor of veterinary and biomedical sciences.
Earth Day 2024: Pollinators help our food supply
| tnonline.com
If there’s food on your table, you can thank a bee. Or a fly. Or even a moth. They’re types of pollinators, and they help to produce about 75% of the world’s major food crops. This article quotes Christina Grozinger, Publius Vergilius Maro Professor of Entomology.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised.
| cnn.com
How much plastic is in the food you eat? Much more than you realize, experts say. This article quotes Sherri Mason, associate research professor and director of sustainability at Penn State Behrend.
Extension volunteer ‘rain barrel guy’ engages youth to protect watersheds
| psu.edu
For Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward volunteer Rich Troscianecki, one of the most rewarding aspects of his role is getting the next generation involved in and excited about watershed management.
Landscape architecture professor receives Stuckeman Collaborative Research Grant
| psu.edu
Stormwater runoff has become one of the leading causes of water pollution in urban environments, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, due to years of cities implementing “gray” infrastructure. Stuart Echols, associate professor of landscape architecture in the Stuckeman School, is working to rectify this with the support of the recently awarded 2024 Stuckeman Fund for Collaborative Design Research Grant for $50,000 over the course of two years.
Kissing bugs, vector for Chagas disease, successfully gene edited for first time
| psu.edu
New research from an international team, including a Penn State researcher, demonstrates — for the first time — the use of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in kissing bugs and opens the door to research on applied strategies for Chagas disease control.
Estimating emissions potential of decommissioned gas wells from shale samples
| psu.edu
The Marcellus shale natural gas boom provided the U.S. with an abundant, lower-carbon footprint fossil fuel, but also brought concerns over increased methane emissions. A team led by Penn State researchers has developed a new tool that can estimate the emissions potential of these wells after they are no longer active.
Phillip Diouf is recognized as a John Roe Sustainability Impact Awardee
| psu.edu
In recognition of student leadership and commitment to environmental stewardship, Phillip Diouf, an undergraduate at Penn State Abington, has been named one of this year's recipients of the John Roe Sustainability Impact Award. This award, named after the late Penn State mathematics professor John Roe, reflects the profound impact of individuals who are driven to make a difference in the sustainability landscape of the University.
Pin-Hsuan Tseng recognized as a John Roe Sustainability Impact Awardee
| psu.edu
Pin-Hsuan Tseng, a graduate student in the School of Visual Arts at Penn State, has been honored with the John Roe Sustainability Impact Award for her innovative fusion of art education and environmental advocacy. In honor of the late Penn State mathematics professor John Roe, the award recognizes individuals who significantly contribute to sustainable practices within the University community.
Jenna Seigworth selected as John Roe Sustainability Impact Awardee
| psu.edu
Jenna Seigworth, a senior at Penn State Behrend, has been distinguished with the 2024 John Roe Sustainability Impact Award for her outstanding leadership in sustainability efforts. Seigworth's deep-seated commitment to a greener, more equitable world has positively impacted both the Penn State Behrend community and the surrounding Erie area.
Harman Singh recognized as John Roe Sustainability Impact Awardee
| psu.edu
Penn State University Park graduate student Harman Singh has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2024 John Roe Sustainability Impact Award, in recognition of her significant contributions and leadership in advancing sustainability efforts within the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences and across the broader University community.
Olivia DiPrinzio recognized as a John Roe Sustainability Impact Awardee
| psu.edu
In recognition of leadership in advancing sustainability initiatives, Olivia DiPrinzio, an undergraduate at University Park, has received a 2024 John Roe Sustainability Impact Award. Through her diverse array of roles and initiatives, DiPrinzio has emerged as a student leader dedicated to promoting sustainability awareness and education on campus.
The global push to involve youth in climate action is gaining momentum, harnessing their innovative spirit, deep investment in the future, and strong collective voice to combat climate change. Getting young people involved ensures that climate policies are forward-thinking and geared towards sustainable development, while their global solidarity and use of digital platforms amplify the call for urgent action. At the forefront of this movement, Penn State's Global Youth Storytelling and Research Lab aims to become a pivotal transnational research hub, empowering young leaders to shape the future of climate and environmental justice. Listen to the podcast.
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