Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 1 hour 2 min ago
Effort to bring back the rapids of Grand Rapids that disappeared after industrial development
After nearly two decades of planning, construction is underway in downtown Grand Rapids to restore the historic rapids that gave the city its name. The first phase will remove four low-head dams and replace them with natural rock features designed to improve fish passage, habitat and river access. The project also includes measures to protect mussels and control invasive sea lampreys.
14-year-old Canadian wins €5,000 prize for alternative theory to dark energy
Liam Desre, a bright Grade 10 student hailing from Kingston, Ontario, introduced a groundbreaking cosmological model that earned him the second prize at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists in Germany. By shifting focus from dark energy to the impact of entropy on cosmic acceleration, he presents a fresh perspective that challenges existing cosmological theories.
California set to break ground on 2,800-acre Webb Tract project to restore wetlands, rice fields
California is moving forward with a $28 million restoration project on Webb Tract to address land subsidence. Approximately 2,800 acres will be converted into wetlands and upland habitat alongside rice cultivation. This multi-benefit approach aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and store carbon effectively. Officials plan to plant native species, including Bay Miwok evening primrose, beginning on October 7, 2026.
Scientists in Australia reduce wheat seed loss to mice by 63% using diluted wheat germ oil spray
Australian scientists tested a non-toxic way to protect wheat seeds from mice by spraying diluted wheat germ oil across farm plots. The treatment camouflaged the smell mice use to locate seeds underground. In a 2021 field experiment in New South Wales, seed loss fell by 63 per cent during and after sowing, and by up to 74 per cent when plots were treated before planting.
AI could force over 10 million workers into new jobs by 2035: McKinsey report
The rise of AI and automation by 2035 is likely to usher in profound changes in workforce dynamics, with around 11 million people needing to pivot to new career paths. Although job prospects will broaden, the challenge lies in effectively retraining the existing workforce. Many individuals are presently feeling immobilized by a sluggish job market, highlighting the urgent requirement to support retraining initiatives for successfully adapting to new roles.
