The Discovery of Camp Century

In a groundbreaking exploration, NASA’s radar technology unveiled an extraordinary find beneath Greenland’s ice—a secret Cold War base known as Camp Century or “the city under the ice.” This discovery, made in April 2024 during a flight testing new radar equipment, revealed intricate underground structures that have not been seen so vividly until now.

While NASA scientists were testing the Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar (UAVSAR) mounted on a Gulfstream III aircraft, they captured a surprising image. Alex Gardner, a cryospheric scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, noted, “We were looking for the bed of the ice and out pops Camp Century. We didn’t know what it was at first.”​ This advanced radar system is not your typical radar; it’s designed to give a more dimensional view of what lies beneath the ice by not only looking downward but also to the sides.

The UAVSAR technology has proven pivotal in this discovery. It allowed the team to see the underground city in unprecedented detail, mapping out the camp’s layout against historical blueprints and revealing structures that conventional radar had missed. This novel imaging technique represents a significant leap in ice-penetrating radar technology, offering new ways to understand the geological and environmental history of icy regions​.

The rediscovery of Camp Century is not just a historical curiosity but also provides crucial data for understanding ice sheet dynamics and the potential environmental impact of the materials left behind. As the climate changes, the ice sheets’ response is a vital area of study, with UAVSAR contributing to predictions about sea levels and ice stability​.

History of Camp Century

Camp Century, famously known as the “City Under the Ice,” was initially presented to the public as a pioneering Arctic research station. However, its true purpose was far more clandestine. Established in 1959 by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, this secretive base was part of “Project Iceworm,” intended to test the feasibility of deploying nuclear missiles from beneath Greenland’s vast ice sheet directly against the Soviet Union.

On the surface, Camp Century featured accommodations and amenities that supported scientific research and the daily needs of its inhabitants, including laboratories, a library, and living quarters. This facade supported its cover story as a hub for polar research, where significant scientific firsts occurred, such as drilling the first ice cores to provide data on the Earth’s past climate​.

Beneath its scientific guise, the camp’s primary objective was far more militaristic. The U.S. planned to create a network of tunnels capable of housing and launching “Iceman” ballistic missiles. These facilities were meant to be part of a broader strategy to ensure the U.S. could respond to Soviet actions during the Cold War. The project was ambitious, aiming to house up to 600 nuclear missiles under the guise of Arctic scientific endeavors​.

The base was constructed deep within the ice, with tunnels extending over several miles. Despite the innovative approach to Cold War military strategy, the project faced insurmountable challenges. The ice’s dynamic nature caused structural instabilities within the tunnels, leading to frequent maintenance issues and eventual abandonment of the missile plan. The shifting ice also posed significant risks to the structural integrity of the facility, leading to its decommission in 1967​.

In the decades following its closure, concerns have grown over the environmental impact of the waste left behind, including low-level radioactive waste from the camp’s nuclear reactor. Studies suggest that as the climate warms and the ice melts, these contaminants could be released into the environment, posing new risks to the ecosystem​.

Technological and Engineering Features of Camp Century

The construction of Camp Century was a remarkable feat of engineering, designed to test the feasibility of establishing military facilities under the harsh conditions of the Greenland Ice Cap. This project was not only ambitious but also showcased a range of innovative construction techniques that have informed cold region engineering practices to this day.

Camp Century was constructed using a “cut-and-cover” method where trenches were dug into the ice and then covered with arched steel structures. This method was crucial in creating the protective tunnels that formed the main structure of the base. The entire facility was then insulated to protect against the extreme cold and to ensure that the heat generated within the base did not cause the surrounding ice to melt​.

To support its designation as a self-sustaining underground city, Camp Century included living quarters, a kitchen, a hospital, and even a movie theater, all powered by a groundbreaking portable nuclear reactor, the PM-2A. This reactor was a critical component of the base, providing a reliable power source in an environment where traditional fuel supplies would be logistically challenging to maintain​.

The base’s design and construction required innovative solutions to numerous challenges, such as the structural integrity of buildings under ice and the management of thermal effects caused by the heat generated within the base. These innovations have left a lasting impact on polar construction techniques and have been studied for their potential applications in other remote and harsh environments​.

Moreover, the data and experience gained from the construction and operation of Camp Century have been invaluable in the development of future designs for ice-cap camps. This project demonstrated that subsurface ice-cap camps are both feasible and practical, and that nuclear power can significantly reduce the logistical burdens of supporting isolated, remote military facilities​.

Secrets Uncovered

The unveiling of Camp Century’s true purpose marked a significant chapter in Cold War history. For years, the world believed that Camp Century was solely a scientific research station focusing on Arctic studies and ice core sampling. In reality, it was a cover for a highly classified military operation known as Project Iceworm.

Initially portrayed as a peaceful research facility, Camp Century was publicly celebrated as a model of polar innovation and technological achievement. The facility was featured in documentaries and news articles, praising its advanced infrastructure and the potential scientific advancements it could bring​.

The truth about Camp Century came to light in 1997 when the Danish Parliament published documents revealing that the base was intended to serve as an underground launch site for nuclear missiles targeted at the Soviet Union. This disclosure came as a shock to the international community, especially since Denmark had been assured that the operations at Camp Century were purely scientific​.

This revelation not only strained U.S.-Danish relations but also raised significant ethical and legal questions about the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Greenland. The Danish government expressed deep concerns, as they had not consented to the militarization of their territory, which they were led to believe was being used for benign scientific purposes.

The declassification of Project Iceworm’s objectives prompted a broader discussion about the environmental impact of the military base, particularly concerning the nuclear reactor used to power the camp. Concerns were raised about the potential release of radioactive materials stored under the ice, which could emerge due to the accelerating ice melt caused by global warming​.

Camp Century’s Effect on the Environment

The thawing of Greenland’s ice sheet is poised to reveal the remnants of Camp Century, including hazardous materials such as low-level radioactive waste and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are known carcinogens. This potential exposure is a significant environmental threat, as the melting ice could release these contaminants into the surrounding ecosystem and beyond​.

As the ice melts, estimated projections suggest that by as early as 2090, the base could become exposed, unveiling not only the physical structure but also the environmental hazards contained within. This includes an estimated 9,200 tons of physical materials, 53,000 gallons of diesel fuel, and other toxic wastes such as PCBs, which have long-term persistence in the environment and can bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans​.

The exposure of these contaminants poses not only environmental risks but also political and diplomatic challenges. The cleanup and management of this waste will require coordinated international efforts, potentially straining relationships between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland. The situation underscores the broader impacts of climate change, where thawing ice is not just a physical change but a catalyst for emerging political conflicts over accountability and environmental stewardship​.

Echoes from the Ice: Reflecting on Camp Century’s Legacy

The rediscovery and impending exposure of Camp Century not only unearths a relic of the Cold War but also reminds us of the lasting environmental impacts of human endeavors. This hidden base, once a symbol of military ingenuity, now poses significant environmental risks as the consequences of its hazardous wastes are set to re-emerge due to the warming climate. The challenges ahead are not only technical or environmental but also deeply political, involving negotiations and responsibilities that span across nations and generations.

Featured image via Shutterstock, NASA Earth Observatory

Yet, amid these challenges, science and technology offer a glimmer of hope. Researchers and innovators worldwide are developing groundbreaking solutions that could curb, or even reverse, some of these climate impacts. While no single invention can solve everything, a combination of promising technologies might just give us a fighting chance. From capturing carbon to cultivating lab-grown meat, these advancements reveal how innovation can play a vital role in building a sustainable future—if we’re willing to address the challenges and work together.

1. The Promise and Challenge of Carbon Capture

One of the most innovative ways to tackle rising carbon dioxide levels is through carbon capture technology. Carbon capture, particularly Direct Air Capture (DAC), works by filtering air through specialized machines to remove CO₂, which can then be stored or used in various applications. It’s a straightforward yet powerful concept: if we can pull CO₂ from the atmosphere, we can directly reduce greenhouse gases. Some experimental facilities are already capturing CO₂ and finding ways to store it underground or repurpose it in fields like agriculture.

Despite its potential, carbon capture faces considerable challenges. The main drawback is the amount of energy needed to run these machines. Since many capture facilities still rely on traditional energy sources, they risk adding to emissions unless they’re powered by renewable energy. This has led scientists and engineers to focus on creating more energy-efficient capture systems that use solar, wind, or other clean energy sources. But the issue isn’t just energy efficiency; it’s also about the technology’s overall scale and accessibility.

Scaling up carbon capture to a level where it makes a global difference is no small task. It requires enormous investments and coordination across industries and governments. While smaller DAC facilities show promise, they currently only scratch the surface in terms of global CO₂ reduction. However, ongoing research and innovation in this field suggest that, over time, carbon capture could become a key part of climate action, especially as we learn to make it more cost-effective and sustainable.

2. Plastic-Eating Enzymes – A New Frontier

Plastic pollution has become one of the most persistent environmental issues, filling landfills and polluting oceans with waste that takes centuries to break down. Scientists have recently discovered enzymes that can speed up the degradation process, breaking down plastic at a molecular level in a fraction of the time it would naturally take. These “plastic-eating” enzymes have the potential to revolutionize how we handle plastic waste, offering a glimpse into a future where plastic no longer lingers in the environment indefinitely.

The environmental impact of plastic-eating enzymes could be profound. With the ability to degrade different types of plastics, these enzymes could help reduce the amount of waste polluting oceans and landfills. Additionally, using these enzymes could lessen the need for new plastic production by creating a more circular economy. By breaking down existing plastics and recycling them into new products, the enzyme technology could significantly reduce our dependence on new plastic materials and curb the pollution associated with their production.

Despite the excitement, there are hurdles to overcome. Producing these enzymes on a large scale is a costly process, and scientists are still investigating potential side effects on ecosystems. Additionally, ensuring that enzymes only target waste plastics—and not essential infrastructure—requires careful control. Nevertheless, with continued research and investment, plastic-eating enzymes hold promise as a sustainable solution for managing plastic pollution worldwide.

3. Distributed Renewable Energy: Cutting Air Pollution Locally

Distributed renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, has been gaining traction as a practical way to generate electricity closer to where it’s used. Instead of relying solely on large, centralized power plants, distributed energy resources (DERs) allow for local energy production, reducing transmission losses and making power systems more resilient. With rooftop solar panels and local wind turbines, communities can produce their own energy, cut costs, and even sell excess power back to the grid, making clean energy accessible at the grassroots level.

The environmental benefits of distributed energy are clear. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, DERs can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, local energy generation supports energy independence, which can be especially valuable in remote areas or communities vulnerable to power outages. As DERs continue to expand, they provide a way for individuals and businesses to directly contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future, supporting the global shift toward green energy on a local level.

However, scaling distributed energy systems poses its own set of challenges. For one, the production and disposal of solar panels and wind turbines can impact the environment, and the upfront costs of installation are still high for many households. Additionally, as more people and businesses turn to renewable energy, utilities must adapt to manage the influx of decentralized power sources. Despite these obstacles, advances in renewable technology and supportive policies are helping distributed energy become a mainstream solution in the fight against climate change.

4. Cultured Meat: Reducing Agricultural Pollution

The agricultural sector, especially livestock farming, is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. As an alternative, scientists are developing cultured meat—also known as lab-grown meat—which involves growing animal cells in a lab to produce muscle tissue without raising livestock. Cultured meat could help reduce the environmental impact of traditional meat production, cutting down on emissions, land use, and water consumption while providing a more sustainable way to meet the global demand for protein.

In addition to its environmental benefits, lab-grown meat addresses ethical concerns associated with conventional livestock farming. Cultured meat does not require animal slaughter, which appeals to those concerned with animal welfare. This technological breakthrough could also make food production more efficient, as cultured meat can be produced in controlled conditions that reduce the need for antibiotics and hormones. The result is a cleaner, potentially healthier alternative to traditional meat that could have far-reaching benefits for consumers and the planet alike.

Yet, cultured meat faces several barriers to widespread adoption. It remains expensive to produce and is not yet available on a commercial scale in most places. Public acceptance is another factor; consumers may need time to adjust to the idea of lab-grown meat as a regular part of their diets. Researchers are also working to ensure that cultured meat has the same taste and texture as conventional meat, which will be key to its success. Over time, with technological advancements and increasing consumer awareness, cultured meat could play a critical role in transforming the food industry.

5. Solar Geoengineering – The Controversial “Sunshade”

Solar geoengineering is an emerging field that seeks to counteract climate change by reflecting sunlight away from Earth. One of the most discussed methods involves releasing reflective particles or aerosols into the atmosphere to create a sort of “sunshade” for the planet. By reducing the amount of solar radiation that reaches Earth’s surface, this approach could potentially lower global temperatures, acting as a temporary measure to slow down the effects of climate change while other solutions take hold.

The appeal of solar geoengineering lies in its potential for large-scale impact. Unlike other climate solutions that address emissions gradually, solar geoengineering could theoretically provide immediate relief from warming temperatures. However, it is not without risks. Reflecting sunlight could alter precipitation patterns, potentially causing droughts or affecting agriculture. Additionally, once begun, the process would likely need to continue indefinitely to prevent a sudden rise in temperatures if it were stopped.

Ethical and governance issues also surround solar geoengineering. Deciding who controls and monitors such a powerful tool could become a point of contention among nations, and there are concerns about unintended consequences on biodiversity and ecosystems. For now, solar geoengineering remains a controversial topic, with scientists continuing to research its feasibility and potential impacts. While it may not be the ultimate answer, it represents one of the more ambitious attempts to tackle climate change head-on.

Clean Energy Is the Key

While innovative technologies offer hope, they cannot replace the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions directly. Achieving a sustainable future requires a combination of advanced technology and a commitment to reducing fossil fuel reliance. Clean energy solutions, such as solar and wind power, should be at the forefront of climate action, supported by efforts to improve energy efficiency and conservation across all sectors.

Embracing green energy is not only crucial for reducing emissions but also for creating economic incentives that drive further innovation. As more individuals, businesses, and governments adopt sustainable practices, the demand for clean energy will rise, pushing companies to innovate and find new ways to harness and distribute power sustainably. Over time, this shift could create a self-sustaining cycle that fosters both economic growth and environmental protection.

Ultimately, while we cannot rely on technology alone, these advancements show that we have the tools to make a difference. With global cooperation, investment, and a shared vision for a healthier planet, we can harness the power of innovation to mitigate climate change and pave the way for a sustainable, resilient future.

Sources:

1. World Health Organization: WHO. (2023, October 12). Climate change. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-and-health
2. Plastic-eating enzymes could help solve pollution problem. (n.d.). https://www.brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/articles/plastic-eating-enzymes-could-help-solve-pollution-problem

From cutting-edge transit systems to clean energy initiatives, cities are proving that innovation and creativity can reshape how we live, work, and connect with the environment. This article shines a light on urban areas that are not just tackling climate change but are transforming themselves into models of sustainable living. These cities are pioneering new ways to create a cleaner, greener future, and their extraordinary projects could be the blueprint for other urban centers worldwide.

How Cities Are Leading the Way in Climate Solutions

Cities have always been at the heart of big changes, and today they’re at the center of one of the biggest challenges we face: climate change. Urban areas are responsible for a large share of greenhouse gas emissions, but they’re also where some of the smartest climate solutions are taking shape. Across the world, a handful of cities aren’t just making small adjustments—they’re coming up with bold, new ways to tackle climate issues right where people live, work, and play.

These changes go far beyond planting a few trees or setting up recycling bins. Some cities are investing in public transit to cut down car trips and pollution, while others are creating jobs in clean energy to support local economies. There are even cities redesigning neighborhoods to reduce the need for cars altogether, giving people better access to parks, shops, and schools close to home.

These projects are powerful because they don’t just address climate change—they make everyday life better for people who live in these cities. Cleaner air, cooler neighborhoods, easier commutes, and green spaces close by all make city living healthier and more enjoyable.

What’s really exciting is that these cities are setting an example that others can follow. They’re proving that it’s possible to balance growth, sustainability, and quality of life. Let’s dive into some of these game-changing projects and see what they’re doing to create a cleaner, greener future.

Standout Cities and Their Eco-Innovations

Around the world, certain cities are standing out for their creative approaches to tackling climate change. These cities are thinking outside the box, with projects that don’t just aim to reduce emissions—they’re changing how people live day to day, often in ways that make life easier and more enjoyable. Let’s take a look at a few cities that are taking big steps toward a greener future.

Boston: Making Public Transit a Top Choice

Boston is on a mission to get more people out of their cars and onto public transit. The city wants to cut single-occupancy car trips in half by 2030, and they’re starting with a pilot program that’s giving free transit and bike passes to 1,000 residents in neighborhoods that were hit hard by the pandemic. The idea is simple: make transit more accessible and affordable, so people choose it over driving.

Early results have been promising, with bus and subway use tripling among those who received the passes. Building on this success, Boston has even used pandemic relief funds to keep some bus routes fare-free. This isn’t just about cutting emissions; it’s about making commuting more affordable and convenient, especially for those who need it most.

Columbus: Clean Energy with a Focus on Jobs

Columbus, Ohio, has set ambitious goals for reducing emissions—45% by 2030—but they’re also focused on creating opportunities for the community along the way. Through the Clean Energy Columbus initiative, the city is working to generate renewable energy with a special focus on job creation. This approach is expected to create up to 4,000 new jobs in Ohio, especially for underrepresented groups like people of color, women, and low-income youth.

What’s unique about Columbus’s plan is how they’re tying climate action to economic growth. The city is proving that clean energy isn’t just good for the environment; it’s also a chance to build a more inclusive economy. As Columbus’s Chief Sustainability Officer put it, having a clear vision for both the environment and community support helps to keep everyone aligned and motivated.

Honolulu: Reducing Traffic and Emissions with Rapid Transit Upgrades

Honolulu, famous for its beautiful beaches—and its traffic jams—is turning to clean transit to make commuting smoother and greener. The city recently fast-tracked a new bus lane on King Street, its busiest street, cutting commute times and making public transit more appealing. This project happened much faster than usual thanks to collaboration across four city departments, reducing the timeline by about a year.

The King Street bus lane is already making a difference, cutting down on delays and helping more people choose public transit over driving. This model is now being used to speed up other transit projects in Honolulu, including future bike and pedestrian paths. It’s a small but powerful shift that shows how making transit faster and more reliable can reduce emissions and ease daily commutes.

St. Paul: Making Electric Vehicles Accessible to All

St. Paul, Minnesota, is thinking big about transportation, with an equity-focused electric car-sharing program called Evie Carshare. This program puts 170 electric vehicles and 70 charging stations across the city, giving residents, especially those from under-resourced areas, access to affordable, eco-friendly transportation.

The city’s goal with Evie Carshare is to make the benefits of electric vehicles available to everyone, not just those who can afford to buy one. St. Paul’s Chief Resilience Officer explained that the community wanted climate action to be inclusive and accessible, and this program is a step in that direction. It’s a reminder that when it comes to climate solutions, accessibility and equity matter just as much as technology.

Transformative Climate Resilience Projects

As climate change brings more intense weather, cities are facing new risks like extreme heat, floods, and storms. Some cities are taking these challenges head-on, putting plans in place to protect people and infrastructure from the effects of a changing climate. The goal isn’t just to react to problems after they happen, but to build resilience so that urban life can withstand what’s to come.

Austin: Fighting Urban Heat with Trees

In Austin, Texas, the summer heat can feel relentless, especially in neighborhoods packed with concrete and fewer trees. Austin’s solution? Invest in “urban greening”—adding more trees and green spaces to cool down the city naturally. Their Climate Equity Plan aims to increase the city’s tree canopy, with a focus on planting in historically underserved neighborhoods where extreme heat hits the hardest.

Studies have shown that more tree coverage can cool urban temperatures by up to 9°F, which is huge during heatwaves. For Austin, it’s about more than just cooling the city; it’s about creating a fairer, healthier environment for everyone, especially those who have been impacted by climate change the most.

Tokyo: Climate-Proofing Buildings for Extreme Weather

Tokyo, Japan, has to contend with earthquakes, typhoons, and flooding, all of which are becoming more frequent and severe. To prepare, Tokyo has adopted some of the most advanced building codes in the world. New buildings are now designed to withstand everything from powerful earthquakes to heavy storms, using special materials and construction techniques like seismic base isolation systems.

This proactive approach has made Tokyo a model for resilience. According to a report by the World Bank, these climate-proof buildings could reduce economic losses from natural disasters by up to 30% in urban areas. For Tokyo, it’s about safety, but it’s also about keeping the city functioning smoothly, no matter what the weather brings.

New York City: Protecting Public Transit from Future Floods

When Hurricane Sandy hit New York City in 2012, it flooded the subway system, shutting down transit for days. Since then, the city has invested heavily in making the subway more resilient. Flood barriers, raised entrances, and waterproofed equipment are just a few of the upgrades New York has made to protect this essential part of the city’s infrastructure.

Now, the subway is better prepared to handle extreme weather events, reducing potential damage by half compared to pre-Sandy conditions. For a city like New York, where millions rely on public transit daily, these improvements are critical. They show how a little foresight can go a long way in protecting city life from the worst effects of climate change.

Each of these projects is more than just a protective measure—they’re part of a larger shift toward building cities that can adapt to and thrive in an uncertain climate. When cities invest in resilience, they’re not just preparing for tomorrow’s challenges; they’re making life better today.

The “15-Minute City” – Living Close, Living Green

Imagine a city where everything you need—your job, groceries, parks, schools—is just a short walk or bike ride away. That’s the vision behind the “15-Minute City.” It’s a way of designing neighborhoods so people don’t have to drive to get things done. This idea isn’t just better for the environment; it also helps build closer, friendlier communities.

Here’s how two cities are making this vision a reality.

Melbourne: Building “20-Minute Neighborhoods”

Melbourne, Australia, is bringing this idea to life with its “20-Minute Neighborhood” plan. The goal? Make sure that essential services are close enough that people can walk, bike, or use public transit to reach them in 20 minutes or less.

Studies from the University of Melbourne show these neighborhoods do more than cut traffic—they actually make people feel more connected and less stressed. It’s pretty simple: less time in the car means more time with family and friends. Melbourne is proving that planning for the planet can also make life better and simpler for everyone.

Paris: Bringing Life Closer to Home

Paris has taken the “15-Minute City” idea to heart. Led by Mayor Anne Hidalgo, the city is changing its streets to make them more welcoming for walking and biking. They’ve added green spaces, cut back on car lanes, and made neighborhoods feel more open and inviting.

The changes are already paying off. More people are choosing to walk or bike instead of drive, and neighborhoods feel more lively. By making essentials easy to reach, Paris is showing that city life can be less hectic and more community-focused. It’s a powerful example of how smart design can make cities better places to live.

The “15-Minute City” isn’t just about lowering emissions. It’s about creating neighborhoods where people have everything close by and life feels more connected. As more cities try out this idea, urban living could become greener, simpler, and a lot more enjoyable.

Cities Making a Real Difference

Cities around the world are showing us that change is possible, and it’s already happening. They’re finding smart ways to clean up the air, reduce traffic, create green spaces, and make city life better overall. These changes aren’t just good for the environment—they’re helping people live healthier, happier lives.

Think of a city where everything is close by, the air feels cleaner, and there are more places to relax and enjoy the outdoors. That’s what these cities are building. They’re not just preparing for the future—they’re making life better today.

What’s even more exciting is that they’re setting an example for others. If more cities join in, we’ll see urban living shift into something greener, friendlier, and more connected. It’s a big job, but with cities like these leading the way, we’re heading toward a brighter, more sustainable future.

Compared to Hurricane Harvey which “parked” in one place, Irma is “a whirling dervish” that has great potential to wreak havoc on Florida and Cuba over the weekend. Reportedly, Irma destroyed “95 percent” of Saint Martin, Barbuda, and the British Virgin Islands. Millions of people are now left without access to water, electricity or phone service. And, at least 10 are dead.

Because of Irma’s strength, a Hurricane Watch is in effect in the Bahamas, Cuba and the state of Florida. In the Florida Keys and low-lying parts of Miami-Dade County, officials have announced mandatory evacuation orders. Schools are closed, shelters have been set up, and 7,000 members of the National Guard will deploy to the region today.

Hurricane Irma is not the only natural disaster to be wary of. A new hurricane, dubbed Jose, recently strengthened to an “extremely dangerous” Category 4 storm. According to the National Hurricane Center, Jose has sustained winds up to 150 mph.

Philip Klotzbach of Colorado State University said this is the first time on record that two hurricanes with 150-plus mph winds are in the Atlantic ocean at the same time. Perhaps now people will acknowledge the stark reality of climate change and adopt sustainable habits to prevent future events from worsening.

Following are 45+ harrowing images of the destruction Irma has already caused:

#1 People Evacuating Their Chickens From The Florida Keys

#2 Paraquita Bay (Before And After Irma Damage)

#3 Popular Ivan’s Stress-Free Bar On Jost Van Dyke In The British Virgin Islands (Before And After Irma Damage)

#4 Beach Plaza Hotel In St Martin (Before And After Irma Damage)

#5 Dogs Take Refuge From The Rain As Hurricane Irma Makes Its Entry Into Samana, Dominican Republic, On Thursday

#6 Wind Swept Cars Are Piled On Top Of One Another In Marigot, Saint Martin, After The Passage Of Hurricane Irma

#7 Strange Scene Along The Coast Of Saint Martin After Roofs Were Torn Off Houses And Blown Off In To The Streets

#8 Aftermath From Hurricane Irma In Puerto Rico

#9 Smoke Rises From A Fire Amid Debris And Damaged Buildings In Marigot, Near The Bay Of Nettle, On The French Island Of Saint Martin On Wednesday

#10 Popular Honky Tonk Bar In Philipsburg St Martin (Before And After Irma Damage)

#11 The Hotel Mercure In Marigot, Saint Martin, Is Left In Ruins Following An Impact From Hurricane Irma

#12 Rescue Staff From The Municipal Emergency Management Agency Investigate An Empty Flooded Car During The Passage Of Hurricane Irma Through The Northeastern Part Of The Island In Fajardo, Puerto Rico

#13 A Woman Looks At Empty Shelves That Are Normally Filled With Bottles Of Water After Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello Declared A State Of Emergency In San Juan, Puerto Rico

#14 Luxury Yachts Were Destroyed And Sunk As Huge Waves Battered The Coast Of St Martin Overnight

#15 Broken Palm Trees On The Beach Of The Hotel Mercure In Marigot, Saint Martin

#16 The Aftermath Of Hurricane Irma On Saint Martin

#17 Aerial Photograph Taken And Released By The Dutch Department Of Defense On Wednesday Reveals The Damage Of Hurricane Irma On The Princess Juliana International Airport And Simpson Bay Beach On The Dutch Caribbean Territory Of Sint Maarten

#18 An Employee From An Electrical Company Works To Remove A Tree Felled By Hurricane Irma, In Sanchez, Dominican Republic, On Thursday

#19 Irma Ruined These Vehicles In St. Thomas

#20 Debris Is Seen During A Storm Surge Near The Puerto Chico Harbor In Fajardo, Puerto Rico

#21 Car Was Left Overturned After Hurricane Irma Devastated  St Martin

#22 Damaged Cars Are Seen On A St. Martin Beach

#23 The Flooding In St Martin

#24 An Aerial Photograph Taken And Released By The Dutch Department Of Defense On Wednesday Shows The Damage Of Hurricane Irma In Philipsburg On The Dutch Caribbean Territory Of Sint Maarten

#25 Princess Juliana Airport (Before And After Irma Damage)

#26 People Pick Up Debris As Hurricane Irma Howls Past In Fajardo, Puerto Rico, On Wednesday

#27 A Damaged Home In Marigot, Saint Martin, Is Left Filled With Sand After The Passage Of Hurricane Irma

#28 The Interior Of A Home In Marigot, Saint Martin, Is Left Filled With Sand Following The Passage Of Hurricane Irma

#29 A Man Walks Among Debris As Hurricane Irma Moves Off The Northern Coast Of The Dominican Republic, In Nagua

#30 A Woman Pulls A Travel Case On A Road In The Aftermath Of Hurricane Irma In Fajardo, Puerto Rico

#31 A Woman Pushes Out Floodwaters On Her Property After The Passing Of Hurricane Irma, In St. John’s, Antigua

#32 Piles Of Debris And A Boat Are Washed Up Onto Shore In Marigot, Saint Martin, After The Passage Of Hurricane Irma

#33 Cars Were Crushed By Flying Debris And Roofs Were Torn Off Houses On Saint Martin As The Storms Hit

#34 A Man Rests On A Cot Inside A Shelter Set Up At The Berta Zalduondo Elementary School During The Passage Of Hurricane Irma In Fajardo, Puerto Rico

#35 Shoppers Wait In Line For The Arrival Of A Shipment Of Water During Preparations For The Impending Arrival Of Hurricane Irma In Altamonte Springs, Fla.

#36 A Car Is Left Turned Onto Its Side From Hurricane Winds In Marigot, Saint Martin, On Wednesday

#37 Waves Crash Against A Seawall As Hurricane Irma Slams Fajardo, Puerto Rico, On Wednesday

#38 An Aerial Photograph Taken And Released By The Dutch Department Of Defense On Wednesday Shows The Damage Of Hurricane Irma On The Dutch Caribbean Island Of Sint Maarten

#39 An Aerial Photograph Taken And Released By The Dutch Department Of Defense On Wednesday Shows The Damage Of Hurricane Irma In Philipsburg, Saint Maarten

#40 Palm Trees Buckle Under Winds And Rain As Hurricane Irma Slammed Across Islands In The Northern Caribbean In Fajardo, Puerto Rico

#41 Dolphin Discovery Attraction On Tortola In The Virgin Islands (Before And After Irma Damage)

#42 A House Reduced To Rubble On The French-administered Territory Of St Bart, After The Passage Of Hurricane Irma

#43 The Grand Case Beach Club In St. Martin After Hurricane Irma

#44 Locals Walk Through The Ruins Of A Harbor Area On The Island Of Saint Martin After The Hurricane Left It In Ruins

#45 A Lone Police Car On Patrol During The Passing Of Hurricane Irma On September 6, 2017 In Fajardo, Puerto Rico

#46 Members Of The Civil Defence Run As Hurricane Irma Howls Past Puerto Rico

#47 A Man Carrying An Umbrella Walks Down A Street In Puerto Rico

#48 Families Gather At A Shelter In A Local Church During The Evening Before The Arrival Of Hurricane Irma In Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic

#49 Wreckage In A Street Of Gustavia In Saint-barthelemy In The Caribbean

#50 Cars Are Left Piled On Top Of One Another At The Hotel Mercure In Marigot, Saint Martin

h/t Bored Panda

With that being said, many of the missing technologies of today are because we haven’t spent enough time looking at the incredible bio-technology world all around us. If we can learn to work harmoniously with nature while taking advantage of what it is teaching us then it will be only a matter of time before we can thrive on this earth.

Climate change and the waves to come.

Were you aware that one of the greatest world crisis of our modern world is climate change? These rapid changes in our world have been completely responsible for the super storms that we have started to experience more and more frequently.  

Other weather changes range from super hot summers to longer winters. These types of issues have been overlooked time and time again but is actually threatening our communities and even economy when you think that these types of super storms can drastically effect our world’s food production.

Luckily countries all across the world have started taking drastic steps to help combat these severe climate changes to hopefully return our world back to a more balanced state. Some of the amazing examples of some of the nations that are battling against these severe climate changes are new innovative “green technology” that doesn’t utilize energy from the traditional source such as fossil fuels, and things like utilizing more carpool lanes.

As a whole, we as the stewards of this wonderful planet, should all work together as one species, to help restore balance to our world. It might not be easy, but it does require everyone’s help to make it a reality. Just remember, we have absolutely everything to lose if we do nothing, and yet everything to gain from our efforts towards change.

While we work to correct the error of our ways there will be hard times and waves ahead. These waves are caused by our past mistakes and may not be avoidable. There are super storms and super droughts worldwide. Unfortunately, some of these will be here for a while until the earth returns to balance.

Technology is working to learn from nature so we can survive the upcoming changes

Past examples of Technology Learning from Nature:

Velcro

This little invention has been utilized by so many of our everyday items, so much so that even NASA and the United States military use velcro on their military uniforms and space suits.  Yet how did we come to create velcro?  

Well, there was the amazing swiss engineer named George de Mestral who, at some point in the early 1940’s, saw just how nature used its own version of velcro by seeing just how plant burrs stuck to the hair of dogs. The word velcro actually comes from the world’s “velours,” which means velvet while, “crochet” which also means to hook, and when you put them together, well you get velcro.

Spider Silk:

Spider silk is one of nature’s strongest materials. When you measure it just on weight alone, spider silk is 5 times stronger than steel, all the while being not only more lightweight but also stretchy. In nature, spiders utilize their sticky webs to ensnare and immobilize their prey.

In nature, there are 7 different types of silk that the spiders use to create their sticky strands. Out of these types, not one single known spider has the ability to possess all of the glands, yet a male spider will have at least 3 of these types while the female will have four of them.  The fourth of course is the one that is for the egg sac. Below is a list of the 7 different types of glands:

In our modern world, we sought to harness the power that the noble spider holds, and that is a sticky substance that is not only super strong but flexible at the same time. So scientists got together and were able to create a medical product that has the ability to duplicate the properties of the silk strands of spiders.  

A type of flexible tape that when peeled from a wound, can cause no damage to the tissue underneath it. In the world of medicine, this wondrous new type of flexible tape can even be used on the elderly who often struggle from frail skin or the sensitive skin of a newborn baby.

The traditional medical grade tape was made by applying a sticky type substance on the back of the material. Yet the new breakthrough in this silk-inspired tape was that researchers were able to apply a silicon-based film on the back of the material (similar to the old way of application on traditional medical grade bandages), but after this they then laser etched a grid pattern into the silicon adhesive. The reason for the laser etching was simply to give the adhesive a type of texture to help with adhering to the surface.

Desert Beetles:

Another great example of how nature is able to survive even the harshest of climate changes is the noble Namib Desert beetle. This little guy has been able to find an ingenious way to help us survive well in its extremely parched world. How is this little beetle able to do so? Well, is is due to the beetle being able to collect water by absorbing the fog around it and turning that into droplets of water on the ridges of its back.  

So in a way these little guys have been able to not only survive in their extreme climates but in a way show us how we could potentially harness the same type of condensation collection to help generate clean drinking water for all the inhabitants of the dry areas of the earth.

Researchers are studying Cacti and Desert Beetles to pull water out of air

The Namib desert is home to a plethora of different organisms such as some beetles and even multiple kinds of cacti have been able to adapt so well to their harsh environment, that they are able to literally pull moisture and water straight from the dry air.

In all honesty, it isn’t really a secret that our modern society is literally and actually killing off the only planet anywhere near us that can sustain life. Through the rising temperatures of our planet, as it continually gets hotter and hotter researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences or (SEAS for short) along with Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, have decided to conduct a study that seeks to develop a way to literally create, pull and transport condensation for use for our growing need for water.

Professor of  Materials Science at SEAS, Joanna Aizenberg said that,

“Everybody is excited about bioinspired materials research”

Utilizing all of what nature has to show us, the researchers have been able to receive inspiration from the mighty desert beetles bumpy shell, along with the incredible structure of cactus spines and lastly from the slippery surfaces of the pitcher plants.  

After heavily researching all of these elements the researchers were then able to create a material that is able to harness the incredible powers used by nature, also including a special Slippery Liquid-Infused Porous Surfaces technology or SLIPS or short, that was developed in Aizenberg lab, the research team was then able to not only collect but direct the flow of condensed water.

The researchers stated that,

“By optimizing that bump shape through detailed theoretical modeling and combining it with the asymmetry of cactus spines and the nearly friction-free coatings of pitcher plants, we were able to design a material that can collect and transport a greater volume of water in a short time compared to other surfaces.”

I strongly believe that if we slow down and observe just how nature has been able to survive for so long, despite the rapid changes in climate, that we could potentially gain the knowledge of nature itself and actually get into a mindset of adapt the right way and overcome. So that when new challenges arise for our world, we will be able to meet them head on.

Sources-

www.sciencedaily.com

www.livescience.com

www.nrdc.org

www.chm.bris.ac.uk

Image Source: good.is