Radiating Remnants: Nuclear Waste Barrels Litter English Channel

Radiating Remnants: Nuclear Waste Barrels Litter English Channel

SPIEGEL ONLINE - April 12, 2013

German journalists have discovered barrels of radioactive waste on the floor of the English Channel, just a handful of thousands dumped there decades ago. It was previously thought the material had dissipated. Now politicians are calling for the removal of the potentially harmful containers. By Nicola Kuhrt more... Comment ]

Fish Tales: Anglers Pull in Tropical Fish from the Frigid Baltic

Fish Tales: Anglers Pull in Tropical Fish from the Frigid Baltic

SPIEGEL ONLINE - November 15, 2012

Fishermen in northern Germany have found an ocean sunfish in the Baltic Sea -- an odd habitat for the species, which usually lives in tropical waters. The specimen died soon after it was found and is now in the hands of researchers at the German Maritime Museum. more...

Wild Europe: Berlin Photo Show Highlights Continent's Natural Gems

Wild Europe: Berlin Photo Show Highlights Continent's Natural Gems

SPIEGEL ONLINE - May 21, 2012

Spectacular wildlife photography often depicts African lions or penguins waddling across Antarctic snow. But an exhibition on tour in Europe is shining a spotlight on natural wonders closer to home. Starting on Tuesday, visitors arriving at Berlin's central train station will be greeted by pictures showcasing Europe's gems. By Kate Katharina Ferguson more...

Contradictory Studies: UN Climate Body Struggling to Pinpoint Rising Sea Levels

Contradictory Studies: UN Climate Body Struggling to Pinpoint Rising Sea Levels

SPIEGEL ONLINE - July 15, 2011

The United Nations' forecast of how quickly global sea levels will rise this century is vital in determining how much money might be needed to combat the phenomenon. But predictions by researchers vary wildly, and the attempt to find consensus has become fractious. By Axel Bojanowski more...

The Hook That Hurts: Scientists Tip the Scales Against Anglers

The Hook That Hurts: Scientists Tip the Scales Against Anglers

SPIEGEL ONLINE - March 11, 2011

Bad news for angling enthusiasts: Fish might be much more than the mere reflex machines previously thought. New research shows that they are apparently conscious of and can suffer from pain, and scientists are calling for them to be treated the same as mammals and birds. By Günther Stockinger more... Comment ]

Dangerous Waters: Oceans Threatened by Rising Acidity and Overfishing

Dangerous Waters: Oceans Threatened by Rising Acidity and Overfishing

SPIEGEL ONLINE - December 03, 2010

Emissions of CO2 don't just have a negative effect on our climate. Oceans, which absorb a quarter of all carbon dioxide released, have become drastically more acidic in recent years. Should the trend continue, it could have dramatic effects on marine life. more...

The Uncertainties of Global Warming: Sea Level Could Rise in South, Fall in North

The Uncertainties of Global Warming: Sea Level Could Rise in South, Fall in North

SPIEGEL ONLINE - December 02, 2010

Climate change is expected to cause sea levels to rise -- at least in some parts of the world. Elsewhere, the level of the ocean will actually fall. Scientists are trying to get a better picture of the complex phenomenon, which also depends on a host of natural factors. By Gerald Traufetter more... Comment ]

Going, Going, Gone? Berlin Wants Help for Waning Bluefin Tuna Stocks

Going, Going, Gone? Berlin Wants Help for Waning Bluefin Tuna Stocks

SPIEGEL ONLINE - November 22, 2010

The plight of the Atlantic bluefin tuna is at the forefront of a European spat. Germany has spoken out in favor of the European Commission's plans to protect flagging fish stocks. Fishing nations France, Spain and Italy, however, want to maintain current catch levels for the favorite sushi dish. more...

New Biotopes in the North Sea: Wind Turbines Create Artificial Reef

New Biotopes in the North Sea: Wind Turbines Create Artificial Reef

SPIEGEL ONLINE - September 22, 2010

A slew of non-native marine species have made their home on the Alpha Ventus wind turbines off the German coast in the North Sea. Scientists say the oysters and crabs, among others, have not affected the structures. more...

185,000 Species and Counting: Census of Marine Life Reveals Endless Diversity of Sea Creatures

185,000 Species and Counting: Census of Marine Life Reveals Endless Diversity of Sea Creatures

SPIEGEL ONLINE - August 03, 2010

Researchers have compiled an unprecedented catalogue of ocean-dwellers ranging from plankton crabs to the blue whale. They have logged over 185,000 species so far, but that is believed to be only a fraction of the true total. Biologists say research into ocean biodiversity must be speeded up to help counter mounting threats to marine life. By Cinthia Briseño more...