From pests to pollutants, keeping schools healthy and clean is no simple task

For students to learn in a safe, healthy environment, school administrators must deal with a myriad of potential environmental contaminants, from allergens to cockroaches.

Janet Hurley, Extension Program Specialist, Texas A&M University • conversation
Sept. 29, 2023 ~8 min

Bees face many challenges – and climate change is ratcheting up the pressure

Honey bees, wild and native bees face threats from parasites, pesticides and habitat loss. Shorter winters, more extreme weather and more habitat destruction won’t help.

Jennie L. Durant, Research Affiliate in Human Ecology, University of California, Davis • conversation
Oct. 13, 2022 ~10 min


Farmers are overusing insecticide-coated seeds, with mounting harmful effects on nature

Studies suggest that seeds coated with neonicotinoid insecticides may harm nontarget insects, mammals and birds. In response, states are starting to restrict use of these products.

John F. Tooker, Professor of Entomology and Extension Specialist, Penn State • conversation
Feb. 22, 2022 ~9 min

How to manage plant pests and diseases in your victory garden

The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted interest in home gardening. Three scientists who garden explain some basic methods for controlling common insects and microbes that can spoil your crop.

Carolee Bull, Professor of Plant Pathology and Systematic Bacteriology, Pennsylvania State University • conversation
July 2, 2020 ~9 min

A global mask shortage may leave farmers and farm workers exposed to toxic pesticides

One way that farms can handle shortages of protective gear for workers is by switching to less-toxic pest control methods.

Melanie Bateman, Lecturer in Integrated Crop Management, University of Neuchâtel • conversation
April 27, 2020 ~8 min

Better rat control in cities starts by changing human behavior

Climate change, globalization and concerns about rat poison soon could drive rat infestations to levels not seen in centuries. One way to curb them is getting humans to stop wasting food.

Jason Munshi-South, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences, Fordham University • conversation
Feb. 25, 2020 ~8 min

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