Methane eating microbes could help turn a powerful greenhouse gas into everyday products like animal feed, green plastics, and cleaner fuels, according to a new scientific review of fast moving research on these unusual bacteria. The study highlights how methane consuming communities, known as methanotrophs, are emerging as biological “gatekeepers” that can both curb climate warming emissions and convert waste gases into valuable resources.

A new study published in Big Earth Data evaluates ten satellite-based and reanalysis precipitation datasets available in Google Earth Engine using rain gauge observations across Czechia from 2001 to 2021. The results show that the gauge-adjusted GSMaP dataset provides the highest overall accuracy, while ERA5-Land performs well for long-term analyses despite systematic overestimation. The findings offer clear guidance for selecting reliable precipitation datasets for hydrological, climate, and environmental applications, particularly in regions with complex terrain.

Atmospheric scientist Amanda Staudt will join the American Meteorological Society (AMS), the professional society for weather, water, and climate sciences and services, as its new executive director in March 2026. 

Ammonia is a promising hydrogen carrier and fertilizer, with growing potential as a low-carbon fuel. However, conventional production is highly energy-intensive and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. In a new study, researchers developed a dual chemical looping strategy for ammonia synthesis that avoids several energy-intensive steps used in traditional processes. An integrated 4E analysis showed improved efficiency and robustness while reducing production costs.

Cuts in sulfur emissions from oceangoing vessels have been tied to a reduction in lightning stroke density along heavily trafficked shipping routes in the Bay of Bengal and the South China Sea, according to new research from the University of Kansas.