This study provides the first direct causal estimate linking wildfire smoke exposure to increased assault rates, using eleven years of daily data alongside high-resolution smoke measurements in Seattle. The findings contribute to a growing body of research connecting environmental change with social instability, demonstrating that even in relatively low-pollution, high-capacity urban environments, climate-driven air pollution can elevate risks of interpersonal violence.
Energy system implications of naturally occurring hydrogen
Patrick O’Rourke, Michael Knotek, Jae Edmonds, Allen Fawcett, Jay Fuhrman, Page Kyle, Gokul Iyer and Othon Monteiro
O’Rourke et al. explore the role of geologic hydrogen (gH₂) in future global energy systems under varying climate scenarios. The study finds that if gH₂ is both abundant and low-cost, it could significantly expand hydrogen use, particularly in electricity generation. However, its large-scale deployment remains highly sensitive to production costs, which could limit its contribution if they rise beyond economically viable levels.
Afforestation and reforestation have varying biodiversity impacts across and within biomes
Pavithra Rangani Wijenayake, Kazuaki Tsuchiya, Haruka Ohashi, Akiko Hirata, Tomoko Hasegawa, Shinichiro Fujimori, Tetsuya Matsui and Kiyoshi Takahashi
Wijenayake et al. present a new framework to evaluate how afforestation and reforestation (AR) affect biodiversity across different biomes. The study highlights that while some forest systems can achieve both strong carbon sequestration and biodiversity benefits, outcomes vary significantly even within the same biome. The authors emphasise the need for integrated strategies that balance climate mitigation goals with ecosystem conservation.
Science-Policy Interface for Marine Plastic Pollution: How Can Visualisations Contribute to Decision-Support?
Christina Carrozzo Hellevik and Jakob Bonnevie Cyvin
This study investigates how visualisation tools can enhance decision-making on marine plastic pollution, based on stakeholder engagement in Ålesund, Norway. The findings suggest that visualisations improve understanding of uncertainty, foster empathy, and promote a sense of urgency, ultimately supporting more effective and action-oriented policy decisions compared to purely analytical approaches.
Wildfire displacement in the United States: a qualitative synthesis of the social consequences
Julie A Gonzalez and Dana R Fisher
This research synthesises existing studies on wildfire-induced displacement in the United States, revealing that socially vulnerable groups—including Latino, non-White, and non-English-speaking populations—are disproportionately affected. The study identifies major gaps in understanding recovery processes, particularly for lower socio-economic groups, and calls for more inclusive, community-engaged research to inform equitable climate adaptation and disaster response policies.
