World Environmental Conservancy

World Environmental Conservancy WEC is an environmental research institute dedicated to studying the ecosystem, weather, and climate of the world.

WEC is an environmental research institute dedicated to studying climate change, which supports environmental protection and nature conservation projects around the World.

Science, Ethics, and Climate: Carlos Nobre Appointed as Vatican Scientific AdvisorThe recent appointment of Brazilian cl...
03/31/2026

Science, Ethics, and Climate: Carlos Nobre Appointed as Vatican Scientific Advisor

The recent appointment of Brazilian climatologist Carlos Nobre as a scientific advisor to the Vatican marks a significant moment at the intersection of science, global governance, and environmental ethics. This recognition not only highlights Nobre’s influential work but also reinforces the growing role of scientific expertise in shaping discussions within major global institutions.

Who is Carlos Nobre?
Carlos Nobre is one of the world’s foremost experts on climate change, with a distinguished career dedicated to understanding the Amazon and its critical role in the Earth’s climate system. His research has been central to advancing the concept of the Amazon’s “tipping point” — the threshold beyond which continued deforestation could transform large parts of the rainforest into savanna, with profound global consequences.
Through decades of scientific leadership, Nobre has contributed to international climate assessments and has been a strong advocate for sustainable development pathways that balance environmental protection with economic progress.

What Does This Appointment Mean?
By joining a scientific advisory body connected to the Vatican, Nobre will contribute to high-level reflections on climate change, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. This initiative signals a broader movement toward integrating scientific knowledge into ethical and societal decision-making frameworks.
The appointment also reflects an understanding that addressing complex global challenges requires collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and belief systems.

Science and Faith in Dialogue
Pope Francis has emerged as a prominent voice in environmental advocacy, particularly since the publication of the encyclical Laudato Si’. In this document, he calls for urgent action on climate change and emphasizes the moral responsibility of humanity to care for the planet.
The inclusion of leading scientists like Carlos Nobre in advisory roles demonstrates a commitment to grounding ethical discussions in robust scientific evidence, fostering a meaningful dialogue between science and faith.

Implications for Brazil
Nobre’s appointment carries important symbolic and practical implications for Brazil. It highlights the country’s scientific contributions on the global stage and brings renewed attention to the Amazon as a critical component of the Earth’s climate system.
At a time when climate issues are central to international policy debates, Brazil’s role — both as steward of the Amazon and as a source of scientific expertise — becomes increasingly significant.

A Broader Signal
More than an individual recognition, this appointment sends a clear message: tackling the climate crisis requires interdisciplinary collaboration, international cooperation, and a deep respect for scientific knowledge.

A New Era: Humans as a Force Shaping Earth’s RotationWe often talk about climate change in terms of rising temperatures,...
03/21/2026

A New Era: Humans as a Force Shaping Earth’s Rotation

We often talk about climate change in terms of rising temperatures, extreme weather, and sea level rise. But there’s another, lesser-known impact that highlights just how deep human influence on our planet has become:

Climate change is slowing down Earth’s rotation.
Recent scientific findings show that the melting of ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica is redistributing Earth’s mass toward the equator. This shift alters the planet’s moment of inertia—similar to how a figure skater slows their spin by extending their arms.

What’s happening?
- Earth’s rotation is slowing at a rate of ~1.33 milliseconds per century since 2000
- This is the fastest rate observed in 3.6 million years
- The cause is linked to human-driven global warming

A major shift in planetary forces
Traditionally, the Moon’s gravitational pull (tidal friction) has been the main driver of changes in Earth’s rotation.
But projections suggest that climate change may soon surpass the Moon’s influence—marking a profound shift where human activity becomes a dominant force in a fundamental planetary process.

Why should we care?
While we won’t notice a few milliseconds in daily life, highly precise systems will:
- GPS and satellite navigation
- Global communications
- Financial networks
Even tiny timing errors can cascade into real-world disruptions.

The bigger picture
This is more than a scientific curiosity—it’s a powerful signal that human activity is now influencing Earth at a planetary scale, including its physical dynamics.

References
Adhikari et al. (2016); Mitrovica et al. (2009); NASA Earth Observatory (2023); Stephenson et al. (2016); The Guardian (2024); WCRP (2023)

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Amazon: The Rain Factory That Moves BillionsScientific communicationA recent study published in the scientific journal C...
03/10/2026

Amazon: The Rain Factory That Moves Billions

Scientific communication

A recent study published in the scientific journal Communications Earth & Environment estimated the economic value of the rainfall generated by the Amazon Rainforest, highlighting the importance of the forest not only for environmental balance but also for the Brazilian economy.

The research examined the role of the forest in the regional hydrological cycle, particularly through the process of evapotranspiration—when trees release water v***r into the atmosphere. This v***r contributes to cloud formation and precipitation that supply large regions of Brazil, including agricultural areas far beyond the Amazon itself.

Using satellite data and climate models, the researchers calculated the volume of rainfall associated with the presence of the forest and estimated its economic value based on the importance of water for agricultural production. The results indicate that rainfall generated by this natural system may represent around US$20 billion per year in economic benefits.

The authors emphasize that a large portion of Brazilian agriculture depends on natural rainfall, and that reductions in forest cover could significantly affect precipitation patterns. Therefore, the conservation of the Amazon directly contributes to maintaining agricultural productivity and economic stability in climate-dependent sectors.

The study reinforces the idea that the Amazon rainforest functions as a major climatic and hydrological regulator. Thus, beyond its ecological and biodiversity value, the standing forest plays a strategic role as a natural infrastructure essential for the country’s water and economic security.

References
BAKER, J. C. A. et al. The economic value of rainfall generated by the Amazon forest. Communications Earth & Environment, 2026.
NOBRE, A. D. The Future Climate of the Amazon: Scientific Assessment Report. São José dos Campos: National Institute for Space Research (INPE), 2014.
MARENGO, J. A.; SOUZA, C. M. Climate change and impacts in the Amazon. Brazilian Journal of Meteorology, 2018.

When It Rains in the Largest Desert on EarthAtmospheric rivers and moisture transport to AntarcticaLast year, a report b...
03/09/2026

When It Rains in the Largest Desert on Earth

Atmospheric rivers and moisture transport to Antarctica

Last year, a report by Deutsche Welle highlighted unusual events of moisture transport reaching Antarctica. These episodes are associated with intense atmospheric flows of water v***r known in the scientific literature as Atmospheric Rivers—narrow corridors of concentrated moisture that can transport large amounts of water v***r from the tropics and mid-latitudes toward polar regions.

Under certain atmospheric conditions, these moisture plumes can pe*****te deep into the Antarctic continent, particularly affecting West Antarctica. When this occurs, the transported moisture may result in precipitation events. Traditionally, precipitation over Antarctica falls almost exclusively as snow. However, recent observations indicate that some of these events have produced rain, a phenomenon that remains relatively rare across most of the continent.

Despite its extensive ice cover, Antarctica is often classified as the largest desert on Earth in terms of annual precipitation. On average, the continent receives approximately 160 mm of precipitation per year, with even lower values recorded in the interior plateau. In addition, Antarctic air masses are characterized by extremely low humidity, creating a predominantly cold and dry atmospheric environment.

The occurrence of rainfall in such a setting has raised concerns among scientists. Liquid precipitation can accelerate surface melting, promote the infiltration of water into existing fractures within ice shelves, and contribute to structural weakening through processes such as hydrofracturing. When meltwater accumulates or pe*****tes crevasses, it can increase stress within the ice, potentially leading to ice-shelf destabilization and enhanced ice discharge into the surrounding ocean.

Another important factor is the relatively rapid warming observed in the Antarctic Peninsula. Over the past decades, this region has experienced some of the highest rates of temperature increase on the planet. Warmer conditions increase the likelihood that precipitation associated with atmospheric rivers will fall as rain rather than snow, particularly during episodes of strong heat and moisture advection from lower latitudes.

Taken together, these observations suggest a possible intensification of meridional heat and moisture transport toward Antarctica. If such trends continue, they may have important implications for the stability of Antarctic ice shelves, the mass balance of glaciers, and ultimately the global climate system and sea-level rise.

The full article can be accessed on the page: www.worldenvironmentalconservancy.org

The Rain of the Amazon: An Invisible Treasure for the EconomyWhen we think of the Amazon rainforest, we often picture it...
03/08/2026

The Rain of the Amazon: An Invisible Treasure for the Economy

When we think of the Amazon rainforest, we often picture its rich biodiversity. But beyond wildlife and trees, the Amazon produces something invisible yet crucial for the economy of Brazil and South America: rain. Researchers from Brazil and around the world have studied the value of water generated by the forest — and the findings are remarkable.

How the Amazon Generates Rain
Amazon trees “pull” water from the soil and release it into the atmosphere as v***r through a process called evapotranspiration. This moisture forms clouds that travel thousands of kilometers, bringing rainfall to agricultural regions and cities far from the forest. Scientists call these air currents “flying rivers” because they act like invisible rivers in the sky.
It is estimated that 20–25% of rainfall in the Midwest, Southeast, and South of Brazil originates from this forest-driven cycle. In other words, the Amazon plays a crucial role in irrigating crops, filling rivers, and sustaining hydropower generation.

The Economic Value of Amazon Rainfall
Water is not just a natural resource; it has a direct economic impact. Some key sectors influenced by Amazon-generated rain include:
Agriculture: Crops like soybeans, corn, and coffee rely on consistent rainfall. A drop in precipitation could lead to billions of dollars in production losses.
Energy: Hydroelectric plants depend on river flow maintained by rainfall. Reduced rainfall leads to less electricity production.
Water Supply: Cities and industries depend on rivers fed by the Amazon. Less rainfall increases the cost of water treatment and distribution.
Some studies suggest that artificially replacing these services — via irrigation or technological interventions — could cost hundreds of billions of dollars annually.

The Risk of Deforestation
Deforestation reduces evapotranspiration, weakening the flying rivers and decreasing rainfall in critical areas. This can cause:
Droughts in agricultural regions
Reduced food production
Lower hydropower generation
Altered continental water cycles
Scientists warn that the Amazon is approaching a tipping point, where loss of forest cover could irreversibly alter rainfall patterns.

Preserving the Amazon: An Economic Imperative
Every tree in the Amazon contributes to water, food, and energy for millions of people. Protecting the forest is not just an environmental responsibility; it is an economic strategy. Recognizing the value of Amazon-generated rain helps policymakers, businesses, and society understand that forest conservation is crucial to ensuring a sustainable future.

The full article can be accessed on the page: www.worldenvironmentalconservancy.org

During the 2022–2023 Antarctic field campaign at the Criosfera 1 module, Brazilian polar science gained unexpected globa...
02/17/2026

During the 2022–2023 Antarctic field campaign at the Criosfera 1 module, Brazilian polar science gained unexpected global visibility with the presence of actor Will Smith.

While filming the documentary series Pole to Pole with Will Smith, produced by National Geographic, Smith traveled to the remote interior of Antarctica to witness firsthand the scientific efforts underway at one of Brazil’s most important climate monitoring stations. Beyond observing, he actively engaged with the team during technical maintenance procedures at the automated module.

Working alongside:
• Heitor Evangelista, from the Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ)
• Heber Passos, from the Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE)
• Franco Vilella, from the Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET)
he assisted in the replacement of the station’s wind turbine generator — vital for sustaining operations during the long polar winter — and a temperature sensor responsible for continuous atmospheric monitoring.

Located more than 2,500 km from the Antarctic coast, Criosfera 1 operates autonomously under extreme environmental conditions. The data collected there contribute significantly to understanding climate variability and long-term environmental change.

Will Smith’s participation helped bring significant international visibility to Brazilian science in Antarctica and to the Brazilian Antarctic Program (PROANTAR).

Photo: personal archive of Heber Passos.

The team (Franco Vilella/INMET, Heber Passos/INPE and Heitor Evangelista/UERJ) boarding the Twin-Otter, to return from C...
01/27/2026

The team (Franco Vilella/INMET, Heber Passos/INPE and Heitor Evangelista/UERJ) boarding the Twin-Otter, to return from Cryosphere1 (84°S) to the ALE Base Camp, Union Glacier Camp, at 79°S.

Photo source: Heber Passos' personal archive.

WEC congratulates researchers Heber Passos/INPE, Franco Vilella/INMET and Heitor Evangelista/UERJ (photo), for the excel...
01/27/2026

WEC congratulates researchers Heber Passos/INPE, Franco Vilella/INMET and Heitor Evangelista/UERJ (photo), for the excellent work developed on the Antarctic continent. A source of pride for Brazilian science, the Cryosphere1 Project has been standing out for its cutting-edge research carried out in Brazil's first research module to operate autonomously and remotely in Central Antarctica.

It is with immense sorrow that the World Environmental Conservancy announces the passing of the first Brazilian to set f...
01/22/2026

It is with immense sorrow that the World Environmental Conservancy announces the passing of the first Brazilian to set foot in Antarctica.
Professor Rubens Junqueira Villela, a retired meteorology professor from USP (University of São Paulo), passed away today, January 21, 2026, at the age of 95.
A graduate of Florida State University (1957), he was a great enthusiast of Antarctic expeditions.
He was the first Brazilian to set foot on the geographic South Pole, where he traveled at the invitation of the USA polar research service in 1961. After that, he made 10 more expeditions to the continent at the invitation of the Brazilian Antarctic Program.
He worked as a meteorologist at Panair of Brazil, BBC London, Aero Magazine, Weather Channel, among other companies.
He left a huge legacy of knowledge in operational, polar, and aeronautical meteorology.
Today, his son, Franco Villela, follows in his father's footsteps and already has several expeditions to Antarctica on his resume.

ANTARCTICA HURRICANE MAY FORM BETWEEN TIERRA DEL FUEGO AND THE NORTHERN AREA OF THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULABetween January 1...
01/14/2025

ANTARCTICA HURRICANE MAY FORM BETWEEN TIERRA DEL FUEGO AND THE NORTHERN AREA OF THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

Between January 12 and 13, an intense explosive cyclone (or bomb cyclone, as it is popularly known), is expected to hit Tierra del Fuego, the Falkland Islands, the Drake Passage and the northern area of the Antarctic Peninsula. There is a possibility that sustained winds of 65 kt will hit mainly the northern sector of the Drake Passage, in which case the cyclone would be classified as an Antarctic Hurricane (see definition below). However, it is worth noting that gusts could reach 75 kt or even 80 kt.

In addition to the strong winds, there is expected to be snowfall, severe visibility restrictions and waves of up to 10 meters in the Drake, in addition to a sharp drop in atmospheric pressure of up to 40 hpa in 24 hours. The low pressure center is expected to hit Elephant Island with 945 hpa on the morning of the 13th.

Extratropical cyclones are common in this region of the globe, but those in the Explosive category are relatively rare in January. In 40 years of statistics, there have been only 8 records of explosive cyclones occurring in January, and these imminent cyclones could be the first to reach the Antarctic Hurricane category.

It is important to note that we are in the austral summer and during this period there is a significant increase in the traffic of research vessels, tourism vessels and aircraft between the south of South America and the Antarctic Peninsula. Therefore, air and maritime navigation services must be placed on alert due to the imminence of this intense meteorological system.

"Antarctic Hurricane" is defined herein as follows:
An extratropical cyclone will be classified as an Antarctic hurricane if it meets the following conditions:
a) Location: the extratropical cyclone must be located south of latitude 50ºS, that is, in the Antarctic Ocean or on the Antarctic coast/continent; b) Low pressure center: must be 1000 hPa or less;
c) Winds: the cyclone must have sustained winds ≥ 33 m/s, ≥ 74 mph, ≥ 119 km/h or ≥ 64 kt. Wind gusts will not be considered.
d) The 24-hour pressure drop must be at least 24 hPa, i.e. the cyclone must also be defined as an “Explosive Cyclone” according to the Bergeron rules.
Source: WEC

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WEC is an American non-profit organization dedicated to monitoring the ecosystem, weather, and climate of the world. Our effort is to assess environmental challenges, providing tools for planning and ex*****on of projects that integrate the short-term preservation needs with the long-term development of local communities. Join us in the effort to transform conservation challenges into solutions that provides ecological balance and thriving communities.