Earth and Environmental Science

What secrets might 2-million-year-old DNA hold?

Scientists from Denmark recently extracted and sequenced the oldest-ever DNA, from permafrost in Greenland, revealing a robust ecosystem of 135 species. Penn Today spoke with four faculty members about the potential power of ancient DNA.

People and places at Penn: Research

From Charles Addams Fine Arts Hall to the Schuylkill River, four researchers share their science and their spaces.

The American continent is seen on a revolving globe

At COP27, Penn showcased its diverse climate expertise on the world stage

More than 30 representatives from the University traveled to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, for two weeks of negotiations at this year’s United Nations climate change conference.

From the U.N. climate conference, advice for Philly as it adapts to global warming

A delegation of Penn students, researchers, and faculty who attended the COP27 climate conference offer their ideas for how Philadelphia officials can work to make the goals of the Paris Agreement a reality.

Soup slinging doesn't aid climate activism

Michael Mann of the School of Arts & Sciences says that non-violent direct actions are an important way to impact public opinion but notes that activists need to consider contemporary snapshot/soundbite culture.

Facing climate change: action and optimism

Michael Mann of the School of Arts & Sciences appears on “Radio Times” to share his climate optimism while reiterating the need for urgent action.

A man tends to a kiln and collects charcoal in front of a eucalyptus plantation.

Where does charcoal come from—and is it sustainable?

Charcoal energizes everything from backyard barbecues to industrial metallurgy, but its environmental impact is worse than once thought. Research from the School of Arts & Sciences finds that policy changes could make charcoal more sustainable.

Will the Amazon rainforest’s chances improve with Brazil’s new leader?

Michael Mann of the School of Arts & Sciences discusses the importance of the Amazon rain forest and its potential preservation under Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Is there still time for COP27 to hold back climate catastrophe?

In a cowritten Op-Ed, Michael E. Mann of the School of Arts & Sciences discusses the most urgent climate change goals that must be addressed at COP27.

Climate questions: Does what I do matter?

Michael E. Mann of the School of Arts & Sciences says that individual citizens should minimize their carbon footprints but that true change can only be enacted at the systemic level with pressure on policymakers.

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