The Symposium - Research papers

Feb 18, 2026 PLoS ONE

Meiofauna Abundance Soars After Hurricane Disturbance

Scientists have discovered that hurricanes can actually boost the number and diversity of tiny creatures called meiofauna in tropical streams. After two major hurricanes hit Puerto Rico in 2017, researchers found that the stream's meiofaunal population increased significantly, with more species present than before the storms. This unexpected finding suggests that the destruction caused by the hurricanes may have created a temporary haven for these small organisms, possibly due to an increase in organic matter from defoliated trees and debris. While some of this effect was short-lived, the study's results provide new insights into how climate change is affecting ecosystems and highlight the importance of considering the impact of extreme weather events on smaller, often overlooked species.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

Small-Scale Veggie Farmers' Climate Change Adaptation Strategies

Small-scale vegetable farmers in Washington state are taking steps to adapt to climate change, but they need more education and resources to effectively mitigate their impact. These farmers prioritize environmental stewardship and community food access, and many feel confident in their ability to adapt to changing weather patterns. However, few are aware of the specific ways their farms may be contributing to climate change or know how to implement practices that would help reduce their carbon footprint. Instead, they value building strong relationships with customers and emphasizing their farm's values in marketing efforts - a approach that could be more effective if supported by targeted education and resources.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

Unlocking Transparency in Climate Mitigation Efforts Globally

A new research project aims to improve the effectiveness of countries' plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Currently, many NDCs lack clear targets and indicators, making it difficult for countries to track their progress. To address this issue, researchers propose a framework that encourages experts in climate modeling to use open-source tools and share data openly. This approach is being tested in Costa Rica, with the goal of promoting more transparent and accountable climate action plans that can help countries meet their global emissions reduction targets.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

Climate Change Projections for Vulnerable Myanmar Region

Myanmar, one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, needs accurate climate projections to prepare for its future. Researchers used a high-resolution model to simulate Myanmar's climate from 1981-2010, mid-century (2031-2060), and end of century (2071-2100) under different scenarios. The results show that the country will experience significant warming, with temperatures rising by up to 2.7°C by the end of the century. However, some areas, like the Dry Zone in central Myanmar, are expected to warm disproportionately, with temperatures potentially increasing by as much as 3.6°C. Additionally, parts of the country may become drier, while others experience more rainfall. These projections highlight the need for adaptation strategies to help Myanmar cope with the changing climate.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

New Research Agenda for Climate Equity and Justice

Researchers have identified key issues related to fairness and justice when it comes to planning for a more sustainable future in the face of climate change. They found that current models often overlook these important considerations, which can lead to policies that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. To address this, the researchers propose a new approach that prioritizes embedding principles of equity and justice into the design of these models. This could involve sharing costs and benefits more fairly, developing new frameworks for sustainable development, and involving underrepresented communities in the decision-making process. By taking a more critical look at how climate models are designed, the researchers hope to create more equitable and just solutions that benefit everyone, not just those who are already well-off.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

Expert Panel Identifies Key Climate Change Competencies

A new study has identified key skills and knowledge that physical activity professionals need to incorporate climate change-related issues into their work, helping them better prepare clients for the impacts of global warming. The research found that experts agreed on 18 essential competencies, including recognizing how climate change affects vulnerable populations, assessing risks associated with outdoor activities, and adapting exercise prescriptions to ensure client safety in extreme conditions. These findings provide a valuable guide for training programs aimed at equipping physical activity professionals with the necessary skills to address the growing challenge of climate change.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

Cattle Face Devastating Heat Stress Projections

Cattle farming is facing a growing threat from climate change, particularly heat stress, which can lead to significant economic losses. Researchers used computer models to predict how temperature and humidity will affect cattle in different parts of the world over the next century. Their findings show that severe heat stress will become more common in several regions, including the Americas, Africa, and Southeast Asia, under current greenhouse gas emissions. This could have devastating effects on cattle farming, especially in areas where temperatures are already extreme. The study highlights the need for urgent action to develop cost-effective strategies to mitigate and adapt to these changes.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

US-China Trade War Fuels Global Emissions Surge

A new study reveals that countries' exports to China and the US are major contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. The research found that when countries export goods to China, it leads to an increase in their own carbon emissions - a phenomenon known as "carbon leakage." However, exporting to the US does not have this effect. This is significant because China has become the world's second-largest economy and largest emitter of carbon dioxide, while the US remains the largest economy but also a major polluter. The study highlights the need for countries to consider the environmental impact of their trade relationships with these two global powers.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

Outdoor Ads Key to Climate Change Messaging

Researchers have found that outdoor advertisements are a powerful tool for engaging people with environmental messages about climate change. They conducted an experiment in 2022-2023 where they tested different types and sizes of ads displayed on buses, billboards, and mobile phones. The results showed that larger ads were more effective than smaller ones, exterior bus ads got more attention than interior ads, and static billboards performed better than moving ads with the same message. Additionally, general climate change messages were more engaging than specific messages about sustainable fashion linked to climate change. This study suggests that creative outdoor advertising can be a key strategy for raising awareness and inspiring action on climate change.

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Feb 18, 2026 PLOS Climate

California's Marine Ecosystems Under Threat from Cold Spills

A new study has found that the California Current System, a vital region for marine life off the US West Coast, is experiencing increasingly frequent and severe "cold-spells" - periods of unusually cold water temperatures. These cold-spells can have devastating effects on endangered species like leatherback turtles and blue whales, which rely on specific temperature ranges to survive. However, surprisingly, these cold-spells may also provide a temporary refuge for some of these species, potentially allowing them to gain habitat in the future. The study's findings suggest that by 2099, most of the California Current System will no longer experience the frequent and severe cold-spells it has in recent decades, but may still see some benefits from these events.

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