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A study conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) reveals a concerning trend of rising salinity in groundwater across the United States. Researchers studied data from 82 networks of wells, sampling water quality over three decades.

The study found increased levels of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions, suggesting growing salinity in the nation's groundwater.

The findings indicate potential implications for infrastructure, ecosystems, and human health, highlighting the need for enhanced monitoring and management of groundwater resources, according to Science Alert.

<h2>Extensive groundwater analysis</h2>

The USGS study analysed 82 separate networks of 20 to 30 wells each, covering various depths and locations, including domestic, urban, and agricultural areas. Over 500 different chemical constituents, such as metals, pesticides, fertilisers, and radionuclides, were identified. This comprehensive survey aimed to assess water quality levels and trends.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/does-brain-structure-change-during-menstruation-research-says-yes-649830">Also read |&nbsp;Does brain structure change during menstruation? This is what research says</a>

While the results have not yet undergone peer review, they can be accessed through the online interactive groundwater map maintained by the USGS. The study reveals increasing levels of sodium and chloride, indicative of higher salt content in the water. Additionally, the concentration of dissolved solids has been on the rise, potentially indicating broader water contamination.

Hydrologist Bruce Lindsey from the USGS stresses&nbsp;that "dissolved solids, chloride, and sodium had statistically significant increases more frequently than any other constituents." The researchers highlight three significant reasons for concern:

<ol>
	<li>
	Infrastructure Impact: Saltier water is more corrosive, posing a risk to buildings and infrastructure, particularly pipes and plumbing.
	</li>
	<li>
	Ecosystem Consequences: Groundwater feeds many streams, and elevated chloride ion concentrations can create toxic conditions for aquatic life, affecting reproduction and biodiversity.
	</li>
	<li>
	Human Health Implications: The study refers to a 2021 investigation linking increased radium levels, a carcinogenic element, to the use of road salts. Rising salinity levels in groundwater could exacerbate this health concern.
	</li>
</ol>

The study shows that increased salinity is particularly prominent in colder regions where road salt usage is extensive. However, arid regions also exhibit salinity increases, possibly due to irrigation-related evaporation.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Is there an increased security threat for overseas Americans amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war?

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While the immediate consequences of rising groundwater salinity are clear, the long-term impacts on ecosystems and human health necessitate proactive measures to safeguard water resources.&nbsp;

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A study conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) reveals a concerning trend of rising salinity in groundwater across the United States. Researchers studied data from 82 networks of wells, sampling water quality over three decades.

A study conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) reveals a concerning trend of rising salinity in groundwater across the United States. Researchers studied data from 82 networks of wells, sampling water quality over three decades. The study found increased levels of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions, suggesting growing salinity in the nation's groundwater. The findings indicate potential implications for infrastructure, ecosystems, and human health, highlighting the need for enhanced monitoring and management of groundwater resources, according to Science Alert. Extensive groundwater analysis The USGS study analysed 82 separate networks of 20 to 30 wells each, covering various depths and locations, including domestic, urban, and agricultural areas. Over 500 different chemical constituents, such as metals, pesticides, fertilisers, and radionuclides, were identified. This comprehensive survey aimed to assess water quality levels and trends. Also read | Does brain structure change during menstruation? This is what research says While the results have not yet undergone peer review, they can be accessed through the online interactive groundwater map maintained by the USGS. The study reveals increasing levels of sodium and chloride, indicative of higher salt content in the water. Additionally, the concentration of dissolved solids has been on the rise, potentially indicating broader water contamination. Hydrologist Bruce Lindsey from the USGS stresses that "dissolved solids, chloride, and sodium had statistically significant increases more frequently than any other constituents." The researchers highlight three significant reasons for concern: Infrastructure Impact: Saltier water is more corrosive, posing a risk to buildings and infrastructure, particularly pipes and plumbing. Ecosystem Consequences: Groundwater feeds many streams, and elevated chloride ion concentrations can create toxic conditions for aquatic life, affecting reproduction and biodiversity. Human Health Implications: The study refers to a 2021 investigation linking increased radium levels, a carcinogenic element, to the use of road salts. Rising salinity levels in groundwater could exacerbate this health concern. The study shows that increased salinity is particularly prominent in colder regions where road salt usage is extensive. However, arid regions also exhibit salinity increases, possibly due to irrigation-related evaporation. Also watch | Is there an increased security threat for overseas Americans amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war? While the immediate consequences of rising groundwater salinity are clear, the long-term impacts on ecosystems and human health necessitate proactive measures to safeguard water resources. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Groundwater in US turning dangerously salty, scientists say

Scientists have long been intrigued by the geology of Brazil's volcanic Trindade Island, but recent discoveries of plastic rocks in this remote turtle habitat have raised concerns.&nbsp;

On the island, situated almost&nbsp;1,140 kilometres (708 miles) from the state of Espirito Santo in the southeast, melted plastic has interwoven itself with rocks, which geologists say is proof of humans' growing influence over the earth's geological cycles.

“This is new and terrifying at the same time, because pollution has reached geology,” said Fernanda Avelar Santos, a geologist at the Federal University of Parana, who spoke to Reuters.&nbsp;

Santos and her team performed chemical tests to determine the type of plastics found in the "plastiglomerates," which are rocks composed of a mixture of sedimentary granules and other debris held together by plastic.

“We identified [the pollution] mainly comes from fishing nets, which is very common debris on Trinidade Island’s beaches,” Santos said. “The [nets] are dragged by the marine currents and accumulate on the beach. When the temperature rises, this plastic melts and becomes embedded with the beach’s natural material.”

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The green turtle, Chelonia mydas, is one of the most endangered species in the world, and every year, thousands of them come to lay their eggs on Trindade Island. The Brazilian navy, which keeps a base on the island and guards the turtle nests, is the only human population on Trindade.

“The place where we found these samples [of plastic] is a permanently preserved area in Brazil, near the place green turtles lay their eggs,” Santos said.

Santos claims that the discovery raises concerns about the impact of humans on the environment.

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“We talk so much about the Anthropocene, and this is it,” Santos told Reuters, referring to a proposed geological epoch defined by humans’ impact on the planet’s geology and ecosystems.

“The pollution, the garbage in the sea and the plastic dumped incorrectly in the oceans is becoming geological material ... preserved in the earth’s geological records,” she added.&nbsp;

(With puts from agencies)

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Scientists have long been intrigued by the geology of Brazil's volcanic Trindade Island, but recent discoveries of plastic rocks in this remote turtle habitat have raised concerns.

Scientists have long been intrigued by the geology of Brazil's volcanic Trindade Island, but recent discoveries of plastic rocks in this remote turtle habitat have raised concerns. On the island, situated almost 1,140 kilometres (708 miles) from the state of Espirito Santo in the southeast, melted plastic has interwoven itself with rocks, which geologists say is proof of humans' growing influence over the earth's geological cycles. “This is new and terrifying at the same time, because pollution has reached geology,” said Fernanda Avelar Santos, a geologist at the Federal University of Parana, who spoke to Reuters. Santos and her team performed chemical tests to determine the type of plastics found in the "plastiglomerates," which are rocks composed of a mixture of sedimentary granules and other debris held together by plastic. “We identified [the pollution] mainly comes from fishing nets, which is very common debris on Trinidade Island’s beaches,” Santos said. “The [nets] are dragged by the marine currents and accumulate on the beach. When the temperature rises, this plastic melts and becomes embedded with the beach’s natural material.” ALSO READ | Study suggests high caffeine levels may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes The green turtle, Chelonia mydas, is one of the most endangered species in the world, and every year, thousands of them come to lay their eggs on Trindade Island. The Brazilian navy, which keeps a base on the island and guards the turtle nests, is the only human population on Trindade. “The place where we found these samples [of plastic] is a permanently preserved area in Brazil, near the place green turtles lay their eggs,” Santos said. Santos claims that the discovery raises concerns about the impact of humans on the environment. ALSO READ | Japanese astronomer captures meteor crashing into moon “We talk so much about the Anthropocene, and this is it,” Santos told Reuters, referring to a proposed geological epoch defined by humans’ impact on the planet’s geology and ecosystems. “The pollution, the garbage in the sea and the plastic dumped incorrectly in the oceans is becoming geological material ... preserved in the earth’s geological records,” she added. (With puts from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Plastic' rocks found on remote Brazil islands, scientists raise concerns

Environmentalists condemned Brazil for sinking a six-decade-old aircraft carrier “Sao Paulo” in the Atlantic Ocean saying that the ageing warship was packed with toxic materials and will cause destruction to the marine food chain. The decommissioned aircraft carrier was sunk in the ocean late in the afternoon on Friday by the Brazilian Navy after authorities failed to find a port ready to welcome the vessel.

Brazil’s Navy statement called the sinking “planned and controlled" which was at about 350 km (220 miles) off the Brazilian coast in the Atlantic Ocean. The Navy added that the sinking took place in an area with an approximate depth of 5,000 metres (16,000 feet). &nbsp;

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According to environmentalists, the sinking of the warship will harm and pollute the marine food chain as the aircraft contained tonnes of asbestos, heavy metals and other toxic materials that would leach into the water. However, defence officials defended the sinking saying that the vessel was to be lowered down in the safest area.&nbsp;

The move by the Navy also received a strong reaction from Basel Action Network, a charitable non-governmental organisation, which champions global environmental health and justice by catalyzing a toxic-free future.&nbsp;

The Basel Action Network called out newly-elected Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva asking him to immediately halt the "dangerous” plan to scuttle the ship. This comes as Lula, who took office last month, vowed to reverse spike in environmental destruction under former President Jair Bolsonaro.&nbsp;

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A coalition of human rights, labour, and environmental organisations known as the NGO Shipbreaking Platform has referred to Brazil's&nbsp;sinking of the Sao Paulo as potentially being a "state-sponsored environmental crime."

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The aircraft carrier, known as the Foch by the French military during its 37-year service, was built in France in the late 1950s and cemented its position in 20th-century naval history. In the 1960s, the Sao Paulo took part in France's first nuclear tests in the Pacific, and from the 1970s to the 1990s, it was stationed in Africa, the Middle East, and the former Yugoslavia.

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Environmentalists condemned Brazil for sinking a six-decade-old aircraft carrier “Sao Paulo” in the Atlantic Ocean saying that the ageing warship was packed with toxic materials and will cause destruction to the marine food chain.

Environmentalists condemned Brazil for sinking a six-decade-old aircraft carrier “Sao Paulo” in the Atlantic Ocean saying that the ageing warship was packed with toxic materials and will cause destruction to the marine food chain. The decommissioned aircraft carrier was sunk in the ocean late in the afternoon on Friday by the Brazilian Navy after authorities failed to find a port ready to welcome the vessel. Brazil’s Navy statement called the sinking “planned and controlled" which was at about 350 km (220 miles) off the Brazilian coast in the Atlantic Ocean. The Navy added that the sinking took place in an area with an approximate depth of 5,000 metres (16,000 feet). Also Read | At least 13 Palestinians injured in Israeli military raids at Jericho camp According to environmentalists, the sinking of the warship will harm and pollute the marine food chain as the aircraft contained tonnes of asbestos, heavy metals and other toxic materials that would leach into the water. However, defence officials defended the sinking saying that the vessel was to be lowered down in the safest area. The move by the Navy also received a strong reaction from Basel Action Network, a charitable non-governmental organisation, which champions global environmental health and justice by catalyzing a toxic-free future. The Basel Action Network called out newly-elected Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva asking him to immediately halt the "dangerous” plan to scuttle the ship. This comes as Lula, who took office last month, vowed to reverse spike in environmental destruction under former President Jair Bolsonaro. Also Read | Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war A coalition of human rights, labour, and environmental organisations known as the NGO Shipbreaking Platform has referred to Brazil's sinking of the Sao Paulo as potentially being a "state-sponsored environmental crime." Watch | US-EU spat over America's Inflation Reduction Act The aircraft carrier, known as the Foch by the French military during its 37-year service, was built in France in the late 1950s and cemented its position in 20th-century naval history. In the 1960s, the Sao Paulo took part in France's first nuclear tests in the Pacific, and from the 1970s to the 1990s, it was stationed in Africa, the Middle East, and the former Yugoslavia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Brazil sinks six-decade-old aircraft carrier 'Sao Paulo' in Atlantic, why it got flak from environmentalists?

New environmental legislation in Spain will require tobacco businesses to pay for cleaning up the millions of cigarette ends that consumers throw away each year, as reported by the Guardian.&nbsp;The decision, which takes effect this Friday, is one of a number of policies intended to lessen waste and boost recycling. It forbids the use of cotton buds, expanded polystyrene cups, plastic straws, single-use plastic cutlery, and plates, as well as restricts the use of plastic food packaging.

The rule complies with a European Union directive that restricts the use of single-use plastics and attempts to make polluters responsible for cleaning up the damage they cause.

The public will also be educated by cigarette producers to avoid leaving cigarette waste&nbsp;in the open, although it is still unknown how the clean-up will be carried out or how much it will cost. According to a Catalan study, the price ranged from €12 to €21 per resident each year, or up to €1 billion (£880 million).

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The Catalan government considered implementing a programme earlier this year whereby cigarettes could be redeemed for €0.20 each, adding €4 to the current average price of €5 for a pack of 20. The programme is not yet official.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: French baguettes under threat as bakers face electricity price hikes

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Cigarette ends are one of the most common types of litter and take around 10 years to degrade, spewing harmful chemicals like arsenic and lead in the process.

The non-profit organisation Ocean Conservancy claims that with an estimated 5 billion cigarettes being thrown into the ocean each year, cigarette butts are the most prevalent source of marine pollution.&nbsp;

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New environmental legislation in Spain will require tobacco businesses to pay for cleaning up the millions of cigarette ends that consumers throw away each year, as reported by the Guardian.

New environmental legislation in Spain will require tobacco businesses to pay for cleaning up the millions of cigarette ends that consumers throw away each year, as reported by the Guardian. The decision, which takes effect this Friday, is one of a number of policies intended to lessen waste and boost recycling. It forbids the use of cotton buds, expanded polystyrene cups, plastic straws, single-use plastic cutlery, and plates, as well as restricts the use of plastic food packaging. The rule complies with a European Union directive that restricts the use of single-use plastics and attempts to make polluters responsible for cleaning up the damage they cause. The public will also be educated by cigarette producers to avoid leaving cigarette waste in the open, although it is still unknown how the clean-up will be carried out or how much it will cost. According to a Catalan study, the price ranged from €12 to €21 per resident each year, or up to €1 billion (£880 million). Also read | Four-time champion Chris Froome set for Tour de France after team handed wildcard entry The Catalan government considered implementing a programme earlier this year whereby cigarettes could be redeemed for €0.20 each, adding €4 to the current average price of €5 for a pack of 20. The programme is not yet official. Also watch | WION Fineprint: French baguettes under threat as bakers face electricity price hikes Cigarette ends are one of the most common types of litter and take around 10 years to degrade, spewing harmful chemicals like arsenic and lead in the process. The non-profit organisation Ocean Conservancy claims that with an estimated 5 billion cigarettes being thrown into the ocean each year, cigarette butts are the most prevalent source of marine pollution. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tobacco companies asked to foot the bill for cleaning up cigarette butts in Spain

The Ukrainian Environment Minister Ruslan Strilets on Monday (November 14) said at UN climate talks that Russia must accept responsibility for the environmental damage brought on by its invasion of Ukraine.

He said, "Russia must be held responsible not only to Ukraine but also to the whole world." The key issue is that, with Ukraine understanding the damages caused, it'll be challenging for them to file lawsuits for each damage caused.&nbsp;

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Strilets announced that Ukraine is now launching a platform to assess the environmental impact brought on by Russian military activity, AFP reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kyiv hopes this will unify international methods to evaluate the damage to the environment and climate.

Earlier, he had told European Union that the conflict has destroyed forests, fouled water, damaged mines and more. Nearly three million hectares (7.4 million acres) of the Ukrainian woods have been damaged by the Russian troops. In response to this damage, the 27-nation bloc promised to help Kyiv with aid including financial support.&nbsp;

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The minister said Moscow's invasion is projected to result in direct emissions of nearly 33 million tonnes of CO2, and the anticipated restoration is expected to result in the emission of 49 million tonnes of CO2.

According to him, over 2,000 instances of environmental harm caused have already been documented.&nbsp;

Moscow's special military operation in Ukraine began in February, leading to major global shortages of fuel and food.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Ukrainian Environment Minister Ruslan Strilets on Monday (November 14) said at UN climate talks that Russia must accept responsibility for the environmental damage brought on by its invasion of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Environment Minister Ruslan Strilets on Monday (November 14) said at UN climate talks that Russia must accept responsibility for the environmental damage brought on by its invasion of Ukraine. He said, "Russia must be held responsible not only to Ukraine but also to the whole world." The key issue is that, with Ukraine understanding the damages caused, it'll be challenging for them to file lawsuits for each damage caused. Also read | US to sanction entities who helped Russia in procuring military equipment Strilets announced that Ukraine is now launching a platform to assess the environmental impact brought on by Russian military activity, AFP reported. Kyiv hopes this will unify international methods to evaluate the damage to the environment and climate. Earlier, he had told European Union that the conflict has destroyed forests, fouled water, damaged mines and more. Nearly three million hectares (7.4 million acres) of the Ukrainian woods have been damaged by the Russian troops. In response to this damage, the 27-nation bloc promised to help Kyiv with aid including financial support. Also read | Zelensky visits Kherson after accusing Russia of committing over 400 war crimes The minister said Moscow's invasion is projected to result in direct emissions of nearly 33 million tonnes of CO2, and the anticipated restoration is expected to result in the emission of 49 million tonnes of CO2. According to him, over 2,000 instances of environmental harm caused have already been documented. Moscow's special military operation in Ukraine began in February, leading to major global shortages of fuel and food. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia must be held responsible for over 2,000 environment damages of war: Ukraine

In order to reduce carbon emissions and lessen its reliance on fossil fuels, the Indian Army plans to induct electric vehicles (EV) wherever possible. The force has set a target for introducing light vehicles, buses, and motorcycles across various locations.&nbsp;

The Army's EV drive will result in the replacement of about 25% of light vehicles, 38% of buses, and 48% of motorbikes with suitable charging infrastructure in some peacetime units and formations. This is being done in accordance with what the Army needs and how well EVs work in various environments.

According to the officials, the EV drive has already begun in New Delhi and will soon be expanded to Lucknow, Pune, and Kolkata.

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To help the EV drive, the Army is putting infrastructure in place. It has erected transformers with sufficient load bearing capacity based on the projected number of EVs per station, and it has installed charging stations in the parking lots of businesses and apartment buildings. Additionally, solar-powered charging facilities are currently being developed.

As per reports,&nbsp;the current shortage of buses would be filled by purchasing electric buses for initial usage by a few selected peace establishments and that a tender for the purchase of 60 buses and 24 fast chargers is anticipated to be floated soon. More <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mercedes-benz-launches-first-made-in-india-eqs-580-electric-car-521927">EVs</a> will gradually be included into the Army.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In order to reduce carbon emissions and lessen its reliance on fossil fuels, the Indian Army plans to induct electric vehicles (EV) wherever possible. The force has set a target for introducing light vehicles, buses, and motorcycles across various locations.

In order to reduce carbon emissions and lessen its reliance on fossil fuels, the Indian Army plans to induct electric vehicles (EV) wherever possible. The force has set a target for introducing light vehicles, buses, and motorcycles across various locations. The Army's EV drive will result in the replacement of about 25% of light vehicles, 38% of buses, and 48% of motorbikes with suitable charging infrastructure in some peacetime units and formations. This is being done in accordance with what the Army needs and how well EVs work in various environments. According to the officials, the EV drive has already begun in New Delhi and will soon be expanded to Lucknow, Pune, and Kolkata. Also read | India: Kerala 'human sacrifice' probe gets gory, cannibalism angle being probed To help the EV drive, the Army is putting infrastructure in place. It has erected transformers with sufficient load bearing capacity based on the projected number of EVs per station, and it has installed charging stations in the parking lots of businesses and apartment buildings. Additionally, solar-powered charging facilities are currently being developed. As per reports, the current shortage of buses would be filled by purchasing electric buses for initial usage by a few selected peace establishments and that a tender for the purchase of 60 buses and 24 fast chargers is anticipated to be floated soon. More EVs will gradually be included into the Army. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian Army all set to go green, procure electric vehicles for select units, install charging facilities

Scientists anticipate that the oyster reefs in San Diego Bay may produce an even more valuable treasure than pearls: protection against coastal erosion brought on by rising sea levels.

The artificial reefs that were placed in the water as part of a strategy to lessen damage in southern California are now home to thousands of the tiny mollusks.

"We look at numerous different ways to help combat sea-level rise, and these reef balls are one of the tools in our toolbox to do that," Eileen Maher, director of environmental conservation at the Port of San Diego, told AFP.

Last December, the port built 360 structures along a peninsula tucked between Southern California's salt marshes and the Coronado peninsula, which is home to the naval aviation facility that served as the inspiration for "Top Gun."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/microplastics-detected-in-human-breastmilk-for-first-time-scientists-startled-523920">Microplastics detected in human breast milk for first time, scientists startled</a>

These hemispheres resemble enormous thimbles and weigh 300 pounds (135 kilogrammes).

They are built of cement, sand, and crushed oyster shells, which is a key component that entices living oysters to establish a home there.

According to Maher, thousands of still-microscopic oysters are hidden by a greenish silt that has accumulated on the reefs after ten months in the ocean.

The dozen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-predict-the-formation-of-new-supercontinent-amasia-when-pacific-ocean-disappears-523819">scientists</a> engaged in this pilot experiment eventually want to see the development of actual oyster reefs, which they think will have a real effect on their local ecosystem.

The bivalve inhabitants of the reefs are all tiny filtration plants that are vital to the marine ecology, making the reefs much more than just a natural defence against tidal erosion.

According to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) report published earlier this year, sea levels around California are predicted to rise by 20 centimetres (eight inches) by 2050.

The West Coast will experience a sharp increase in the frequency of floods as a result, which will also happen more frequently as a result of storms and heavy rainfall events that are made worse by human-caused climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Scientists anticipate that the oyster reefs in San Diego Bay may produce an even more valuable treasure than pearls: protection against coastal erosion brought on by rising sea levels.

Scientists anticipate that the oyster reefs in San Diego Bay may produce an even more valuable treasure than pearls: protection against coastal erosion brought on by rising sea levels. The artificial reefs that were placed in the water as part of a strategy to lessen damage in southern California are now home to thousands of the tiny mollusks. "We look at numerous different ways to help combat sea-level rise, and these reef balls are one of the tools in our toolbox to do that," Eileen Maher, director of environmental conservation at the Port of San Diego, told AFP. Last December, the port built 360 structures along a peninsula tucked between Southern California's salt marshes and the Coronado peninsula, which is home to the naval aviation facility that served as the inspiration for "Top Gun." Also read | Microplastics detected in human breast milk for first time, scientists startled These hemispheres resemble enormous thimbles and weigh 300 pounds (135 kilogrammes). They are built of cement, sand, and crushed oyster shells, which is a key component that entices living oysters to establish a home there. According to Maher, thousands of still-microscopic oysters are hidden by a greenish silt that has accumulated on the reefs after ten months in the ocean. The dozen scientists engaged in this pilot experiment eventually want to see the development of actual oyster reefs, which they think will have a real effect on their local ecosystem. The bivalve inhabitants of the reefs are all tiny filtration plants that are vital to the marine ecology, making the reefs much more than just a natural defence against tidal erosion. According to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) report published earlier this year, sea levels around California are predicted to rise by 20 centimetres (eight inches) by 2050. The West Coast will experience a sharp increase in the frequency of floods as a result, which will also happen more frequently as a result of storms and heavy rainfall events that are made worse by human-caused climate change. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

In an attempt to save California's coasts, scientists go in for the humble oyster

UN&nbsp;climate&nbsp;experts are set to&nbsp;release&nbsp;what is expected to be the definitive guide to halting global warming on Monday, in a report that lays out how societies and economies must transform to ensure a "liveable" future.

With war in Ukraine spurring an urgent energy rethink in the West, analysts say the latest report from the&nbsp;UN's Intergovernmental Panel on&nbsp;Climate&nbsp;Change&nbsp;will also be an important resource for nations seeking a rapid transition away from Russian oil and gas.

In recent months the IPCC has published the first two instalments in a trilogy of mammoth scientific assessments covering how greenhouse gas pollution is heating the planet and what that means for life on Earth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-of-new-zealands-glaciers-might-vanish-within-a-decade-scientists-warn-467056">Scientists warn that many of New Zealand’s glaciers might vanish within a decade</a>

This third report will outline what to do about it.

But that answer has sweeping political ramifications as&nbsp;climate&nbsp;solutions&nbsp;touch on virtually all aspects of modern life -- and require significant investment.&nbsp;

Two weeks of gruelling negotiations have seen nearly 200 nations struggling to thrash out line-by-line a high-level "summary for policymakers" that distils the hundreds of pages of underlying assessment.&nbsp;

That meeting was supposed to wrap up on Friday, but dragged on through the weekend.&nbsp;The IPCC assessment was originally due to be published publicly on Monday at 0900 GMT, but will now be released at 1500GMT.&nbsp;

"Everybody has something to lose and everybody has something to gain," said one person close to the process.

Easy answers are unlikely, with the IPCC expected to detail the need for transformational changes to energy generation and industry, as well as to cities, transportation and food systems.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India, a voice for developing nations on climate change

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-a-voice-for-developing-nations-on-climate-change-467487/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

To save the world from the worst ravages of&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change, the report is also expected to warn that slashing carbon dioxide pollution is no longer enough.&nbsp;

And technologies that are not yet operating to scale will need to be ramped up enormously to suck CO2 out of the atmosphere.

A 1.5C cap on global warming -- the aspirational goal of the 2015 Paris&nbsp;climate&nbsp;accord -- has been embraced as a target by most of the world's nations.

Barely 1.1C of warming so far has ushered in a devastating surge of deadly extreme weather across the globe.

Fossil fuels

UN&nbsp;chief Antonio Guterres warned last month that major economies are allowing carbon pollution to increase when drastic cuts are needed.

"We are sleepwalking to&nbsp;climate&nbsp;catastrophe," he said.

In February, the IPCC report on past, present and future&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change&nbsp;impacts and vulnerabilities detailed what Guterres called an "atlas of human suffering".&nbsp;

The report concluded that further delays in cutting carbon pollution and preparing for impacts already in the pipeline "will miss a brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all".

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-vaccine-covaxin-supply-through-un-procurement-agencies-suspended-by-who-467944">&nbsp;Covid vaccine Covaxin supply through UN procurement agencies suspended by WHO &nbsp;</a>

Current national carbon-cutting commitments still put the world on a catastrophic path toward 2.7C of warming by 2100.

"How much more destruction must we witness, and how many more scientific reports will it take, before governments finally acknowledge fossil fuels as the real culprits behind the human suffering being felt across the globe?", said Namrata Chowdhary of 350.org.&nbsp;

The main focus of the report is on weaning the global economy off fossil fuels and moving to low- or zero-carbon sources of energy, from solar and wind to nuclear, hydro and hydrogen.

Helping that transition is the fact that renewable energy is now cheaper than energy generated by fossil fuels in most markets.

The IPCC also details ways to reduce demand for oil, gas and coal, whether by making buildings more energy-efficient or encouraging shifts in lifestyle, such as eating less beef and not flying half-way around the world for a holiday or business meeting.

With intense political wrangling over the high-level policy summary, some fear the message will have been watered down.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-peacekeepers-deployed-to-northeastern-mali-amid-spate-of-killings-467447">UN peacekeepers deployed to northeastern Mali amid spate of killings</a>

"The&nbsp;climate&nbsp;crisis is accelerating and fossil fuels are the overwhelming cause. Any report on mitigation that fails to emphasise that fact is denying the very science to which the IPCC is committed," said Nikki Reisch of the Center for International Environmental Law.&nbsp;

The report's finding will feed into&nbsp;UN&nbsp;political negotiations, which resume in November in Egypt at COP 27.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

UN climate experts are set to release what is expected to be the definitive guide to halting global warming on Monday, in a report that lays out how societies and economies must transform to ensure a "liveable" future.

UN climate experts are set to release what is expected to be the definitive guide to halting global warming on Monday, in a report that lays out how societies and economies must transform to ensure a "liveable" future. With war in Ukraine spurring an urgent energy rethink in the West, analysts say the latest report from the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change will also be an important resource for nations seeking a rapid transition away from Russian oil and gas. In recent months the IPCC has published the first two instalments in a trilogy of mammoth scientific assessments covering how greenhouse gas pollution is heating the planet and what that means for life on Earth. Also read | Scientists warn that many of New Zealand’s glaciers might vanish within a decade This third report will outline what to do about it. But that answer has sweeping political ramifications as climate solutions touch on virtually all aspects of modern life -- and require significant investment. Two weeks of gruelling negotiations have seen nearly 200 nations struggling to thrash out line-by-line a high-level "summary for policymakers" that distils the hundreds of pages of underlying assessment. That meeting was supposed to wrap up on Friday, but dragged on through the weekend. The IPCC assessment was originally due to be published publicly on Monday at 0900 GMT, but will now be released at 1500GMT. "Everybody has something to lose and everybody has something to gain," said one person close to the process. Easy answers are unlikely, with the IPCC expected to detail the need for transformational changes to energy generation and industry, as well as to cities, transportation and food systems. Watch | India, a voice for developing nations on climate change To save the world from the worst ravages of climate change, the report is also expected to warn that slashing carbon dioxide pollution is no longer enough. And technologies that are not yet operating to scale will need to be ramped up enormously to suck CO2 out of the atmosphere. A 1.5C cap on global warming -- the aspirational goal of the 2015 Paris climate accord -- has been embraced as a target by most of the world's nations. Barely 1.1C of warming so far has ushered in a devastating surge of deadly extreme weather across the globe. Fossil fuels UN chief Antonio Guterres warned last month that major economies are allowing carbon pollution to increase when drastic cuts are needed. "We are sleepwalking to climate catastrophe," he said. In February, the IPCC report on past, present and future climate change impacts and vulnerabilities detailed what Guterres called an "atlas of human suffering". The report concluded that further delays in cutting carbon pollution and preparing for impacts already in the pipeline "will miss a brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all". Also read | Covid vaccine Covaxin supply through UN procurement agencies suspended by WHO Current national carbon-cutting commitments still put the world on a catastrophic path toward 2.7C of warming by 2100. "How much more destruction must we witness, and how many more scientific reports will it take, before governments finally acknowledge fossil fuels as the real culprits behind the human suffering being felt across the globe?", said Namrata Chowdhary of 350.org. The main focus of the report is on weaning the global economy off fossil fuels and moving to low- or zero-carbon sources of energy, from solar and wind to nuclear, hydro and hydrogen. Helping that transition is the fact that renewable energy is now cheaper than energy generated by fossil fuels in most markets. The IPCC also details ways to reduce demand for oil, gas and coal, whether by making buildings more energy-efficient or encouraging shifts in lifestyle, such as eating less beef and not flying half-way around the world for a holiday or business meeting. With intense political wrangling over the high-level policy summary, some fear the message will have been watered down. Also read | UN peacekeepers deployed to northeastern Mali amid spate of killings "The climate crisis is accelerating and fossil fuels are the overwhelming cause. Any report on mitigation that fails to emphasise that fact is denying the very science to which the IPCC is committed," said Nikki Reisch of the Center for International Environmental Law. The report's finding will feed into UN political negotiations, which resume in November in Egypt at COP 27.

UN to release handbook of climate change solutions

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