Summertime can be germy: A microbiologist explains how to avoid getting sick at the barbecue, in the pool or on the trail

Common summer activities can expose you to a host of infectious diseases. But there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself from pathogens ranging from E. coli to T. gondii.

Bill Sullivan, Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University • conversation
June 11, 2024 ~8 min

Successful city parks make diverse communities feel safe and welcome − this Minnesota park is an example

City parks are like outdoor living rooms: If people feel welcome and relaxed, they will settle in.

Dan Trudeau, Professor of Geography, Macalester College • conversation
May 22, 2024 ~9 min


How simple changes can open up Britain’s green spaces so everyone can benefit from them

This initiative could give more disabled and young people the confidence to explore more of Britain’s wild spaces and build a stronger nature connection

Anthony Maher, Professor of Special Educational Needs, Disability and Inclusion, Leeds Beckett University • conversation
Jan. 29, 2024 ~7 min

Lighting a fire using friction requires an understanding of some physics principles − but there are ways to make the process easier

You may have seen contestants on reality shows like “Survivor” make fire using friction, but do you know the physics behind the process?

Bradley Duncan, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Dayton • conversation
Dec. 14, 2023 ~9 min

Take a break from your screen and look at plants − botanizing is a great way to engage with life around you

Botanizing is the practice of observing and appreciating plant life. Two plant scientists explain how it benefits people and the planet.

Ben Goulet-Scott, Higher Education & Laboratory Coordinator at Harvard Forest, Harvard University • conversation
Sept. 20, 2023 ~9 min

What social change movements can learn from fly fishing: The value of a care-focused message

Founded in 1959, the membership group Trout Unlimited has changed the culture of fly-fishing and mobilized members to support conservation. Could its approach work for other social problems?

Madeline Toubiana, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship and Organization, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa • conversation
Aug. 28, 2023 ~9 min

AI can help forecast air quality, but freak events like 2023's summer of wildfire smoke require traditional methods too

Air quality forecasting is getting better, thanks in part to AI. That’s good, given the health impact of air pollution. An environmental engineer explains how systems warn of incoming smog or smoke.

Joshua S. Fu, Chancellor's Professor in Engineering, Climate Change and Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee • conversation
Aug. 9, 2023 ~6 min

By 'helping' wild animals, you could end their freedom or even their lives – here's why you should keep your distance

A newborn bison calf in Yellowstone National Park had to be euthanized after a visitor handled it in May 2023 – a recent example of how trying to help wild animals often harms them.

Julian Avery, Associate Research Professor of Wildlife Conservation, Penn State • conversation
June 30, 2023 ~11 min


US national parks are crowded – and so are many national forests, wildlife refuges, battlefields and seashores

Crowding is increasingly affecting all kinds of public lands. Adjoining communities need to find ways to manage it, or risk harm to the attractions that make them a destination.

Emily Wakild, Cecil D. Andrus Endowed Professor for the Environment and Public Lands, Boise State University • conversation
June 20, 2023 ~9 min

Heading to a beach this summer? Here's how to keep harmful algae blooms from spoiling your trip

The tiny organisms that cause harmful blooms of algae can have a big impact on your trip to the shore. A toxicologist explains what causes these events and how to keep people and pets safe.

Brad Reisfeld, Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Public Health, Colorado State University • conversation
May 3, 2023 ~8 min

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