Natural disasters
Australian researchers study oysters’ resilience in face of climate change
Moreton Bay, on Australia’s eastern coast, has lost over 95% of its oyster reefs over the past few centuries. These reefs are not just the source of a culinary delicacy, but they help filter seawater and protect shorelines from the effects of storms, sea level rise and increasing temperatures. Scientists are now studying the oysters’ resilience in the face of climate change.
Some people on Indonesia’s Simeulue island relied on folklore to escape the 2004 tsunami
The majority of deaths from the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami were in Indonesia. But the island of Simeulue was largely spared. Researchers say this was partly due to folklore passed down through the generations that residents are now trying to keep alive.
Is Europe ill-prepared for flood disasters?
Europe is the fastest warming continent on earth but scientists say many local governments are badly prepared for weather related disasters. With the increase in flooding events across the region, is Europe truly prepared to grapple with the effects of climate change?
In southern Turkey, a surf school helps earthquake survivors process trauma and loss
The beachside community of Samandağ was devastated by last year’s earthquakes in southern Turkey, which killed roughly 60,000 people. Today, a small surf center introduces local teenagers to the sport — and a way to process trauma while facing fear.