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Permafrost Melting Releases Mercury
Scientists have pointed to another hazard posed by climate change. Centuries of burning coal have loaded the Arctic permafrost with mercury pollution. When the permafrost melts, the mercury is released into the environment. The Washington Post reports: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/energy-environment/wp/2018/02/05/the-arctic-is-full-of-toxic-mercury-and-climate-change-is-going-to-release-it/?utm_term=.d902fb508e7b
Hoverflies May Spread Bee Diseases
Scientists have, for the first time, detected viruses in hoverflies known to cause deadly diseases in bees. Hoverflies are also pollinators, but have significantly larger ranges than bees, so researchers are afraid the hoverflies may be spreading the diseases. The BBC has the story: http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-43200277
Flat Energy Demand Confounds Utilities
Amidst the drama over coal vs. renewables, it has been little mentioned that America’s energy demand has gone flat. This has put some utility companies in a precarious position. Vox explains: https://www.vox.com/energy-and-environment/2018/2/27/17052488/electricity-demand-utilities