Chinese scientists are reportedly racing against time to protect potatoes, a vital global food crop, from the adverse effects of climate change. Research conducted under the International Potato Center (CIP) in Beijing is said to have revealed alarming reductions in potato yields when exposed to higher temperatures. Potatoes grown in simulated conditions, replicating future climate scenarios, were found to weigh less than half of typical varieties in China, underscoring the urgent need for adaptation strategies.

Research Findings Highlight Urgency

The study, published in Climate Smart Agriculture journal and detailed in a Reuters report, detailed a three-year project led by molecular biologist Li Jieping. Potatoes cultivated under temperatures 3 degree-Celcius above the current average in Hebei and Inner Mongolia saw a yield reduction of over 50 percent. Li Jieping told the publication that the accelerated tuber growth came at the cost of size and weight, raising concerns about future food security in China, the world’s largest potato producer.

Climate Challenges Threaten Production

Farmers in Inner Mongolia are already witnessing climate change impacts, including erratic rainfall that delays harvests and exacerbates crop diseases. Wang Shiyi, a manager at Hebei Jiuen Agricultural Development Company, reported that heavy rain this year slowed down harvesting efforts significantly.

Yakeshi Senfeng Potato Industry Company’s general manager, Li Xuemin reportedly said that diseases such as late blight, which thrives in warm and humid conditions, are becoming more resistant to traditional control measures..

Developing Climate-Resilient Solutions

To address these challenges, Chinese researchers are reportedly employing advanced techniques such as aeroponics and genetic studies to develop heat-tolerant and disease-resistant potato varieties, as per sources. At a research facility in Yanqing, Beijing, workers are said to be propagating potato plantlets under controlled conditions. Li Jieping told the publication that changes in farming practices, including shifting planting seasons and moving to higher altitudes, may be necessary within the next decade to mitigate yield losses.

The researchers reportedly claim that without immediate interventions, both farmers’ livelihoods and potato prices may be severely affected as global temperatures continue to rise.

A recent study by researchers at Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment has examined the water quality effects of a historic lithium mine in North Carolina, specifically near Kings Mountain. Conducted by a team led by Avner Vengosh, a Distinguished Professor of Environmental Quality, the study highlights the presence of elevated levels of lithium, rubidium, and cesium in waters connected to the mine site. Published in Science of the Total Environment, the findings provide critical insights into how abandoned lithium mines may affect local water resources.

Contaminants and Findings from the Study

The investigation revealed that concentrations of common contaminants such as arsenic, lead, copper and nickel remained below the standards established by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, significant levels of lithium and less commonly encountered metals like rubidium and cesium were identified in groundwater and nearby surface water. These elements, while unregulated federally, were noted at concentrations atypical for natural water sources in the region.

In a statement given to SciTechDaily, Gordon Williams, the study’s lead author and PhD student at Duke University, said that the findings pose questions about the potential health and environmental effects of these metals. Laboratory tests simulating natural conditions also showed that the mine’s waste materials did not contribute to harmful acidic runoff, a phenomenon often associated with mining operations like coal extraction.

Future Lithium Exploration and Implications

The study emphasised that while the legacy mine’s impacts are documented, the environmental effects of active lithium extraction and processing remain unaddressed. Vengosh reportedly said that processing methods, which involve chemical treatments to extract lithium, could introduce new challenges for water quality in the area if mining operations resume.

Efforts are now underway to expand the research to include drinking water quality assessments across lithium-rich zones in North Carolina, as per the report. By analysing private wells and surface water, the researchers aim to provide further clarity on the long-term effects of lithium mining on local water systems.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has deployed its advanced satellite technology to closely monitor Cyclone Fengal as it nears the Tamil Nadu coast. The monitoring, which began on November 23, involves critical data collection using the EOS-06 Scatterometer, a key instrument of the Oceansat-3 mission, and the geostationary INSAT-3DR satellite. These systems have provided essential insights into the cyclone’s trajectory and intensity, according to reports.

Satellite Capabilities Enable Early Detection

In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), the official handle of ISRO said, “ISRO’s EOS-06 & INSAT-3DR satellites are closely monitoring the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal since Nov 23, 2024. Satellite inputs aid in better tracking, early warning and mitigation.” The post also added that the EOS-06 Scatterometer was able to detect ocean winds early, offering lead time for crucial evacuation process.

The EOS-06 Scatterometer has been highlighted as instrumental in identifying ocean wind patterns linked to Cyclone Fengal. This data, reported as crucial by meteorological sources, aids in understanding the cyclone’s behaviour and potential impact on coastal regions. Experts note that early detection capabilities significantly enhance preparedness by enabling authorities to issue timely warnings and implement safety measures.

Real-Time Updates From INSAT-3DR

Real-time updates are being provided by the geostationary INSAT-3DR satellite, which monitors changes in the cyclone’s intensity and direction, as per multiple sources. Meteorologists have stated that continuous monitoring supports disaster management efforts by offering precise predictions of the cyclone’s strength and movement. This information is being used by local authorities to plan evacuation and mitigation strategies effectively.

Integration of Technology in Disaster Management

ISRO’s satellite data has become integral to managing natural disasters like cyclones, especially as extreme weather events grow in frequency due to climate change. By rapidly processing satellite information, ISRO ensures that authorities are equipped with actionable insights to protect lives and minimise damage.

Residents in Tamil Nadu are being urged to stay alert and follow updates from official weather agencies. As Cyclone Fengal advances, coordinated efforts between ISRO and local authorities continue to underscore the importance of space-based monitoring in safeguarding communities.