Earth

New geological dating system could show when glaciers retreated

The mass of buildings and other infrastructure exceeds that of all trees, shrubs, and animals on the planet

They burn faster and kill more trees, analysis of California fires reveals

Researchers find that drought and expanded croplands are driving more frequent dust storms

Funding for volcano’s lone monitoring station lost as warning signs flash

Untoppled boulders are testaments to large temblors that didn’t happen

Plants and animals with small populations or restricted ranges at risk

Researchers show how “slickenlines” trace the directions of ancient quakes

Revived technique could detect a deep-ocean signal of global warming

Officials fear smoke from intentional burns could worsen pandemic

Hranice Abyss finding could call into question origin of other deep caves

They came by air, by land, and by internet

Removing humanmade banks of polluted sediment transforms streams to their former glory

Prototype has not been tested in field, but could be cheaper and easier than current approaches

Humans are changing how it moves, and where it piles up

Researchers seek new uses for caustic byproduct of aluminum production