Midwest Consortium for Hazardous Waste Worker Training - MWC

06/01/2026

🌋New research suggests the 2022 Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai may have triggered a chemical reaction that helped break down , a powerful gas. Scientists say the discovery could point to future methane-reduction strategies, but more testing is needed to understand whether the process can be safely and effectively replicated.

mwc.umn.edu

An underwater volcano violently erupted in the South Pacific in 2022. The chemical reaction that happened afterwards could show humans how to slow global warming.

05/29/2026

⭐️ 🌊 A decade after wasting disease devastated sunflower sea star populations along the West Coast, scientists are seeing encouraging signs of recovery. Researchers have successfully raised the keystone species in laboratory settings and are testing ways to reintroduce them into the wild. Because sunflower sea stars help control sea urchin populations that can destroy , their recovery could play an important role in restoring marine and .

mwc.umn.edu

Private and public entities, each contributing their own set of resources, are collaborating in the recovery of the sunflower sea star.

05/27/2026

👟Wet shoes stored in dark or enclosed spaces can trap moisture, creating conditions for mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors to develop. Allowing footwear to dry completely before putting it away can help reduce moisture buildup and extend the life of your shoes.

mwc.umn.edu

05/25/2026

Today we honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

mwc.umn.edu

05/22/2026

🏊‍♀️ health officials are warning residents to avoid foam on , , and other surface waters because it may contain harmful contaminants, including high levels of “forever chemicals.” Officials say the foam can also carry bacteria, algae, and other pollutants that may pose health risks to people and pets. While skin exposure risk is considered low, experts recommend rinsing off immediately after contact to reduce the chance of accidentally swallowing or foam. The warning highlights ongoing concerns about PFAS pollution and water quality across the region.

mwc.umn.edu

The foam can contain harmful chemicals or bacteria, including high levels of PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

05/20/2026

Bathroom exhaust fans help remove moisture, odors, and airborne particles from the air, but dust can build up on fan covers over time and reduce airflow. Cleaning fan covers regularly can help maintain proper ventilation and support better indoor air quality.

mwc.umn.edu

05/18/2026

💧Rivers around the world are slowly losing oxygen as climate change warms the water💧

A new study analyzing more than 21,000 rivers found that oxygen levels have declined since 1985, creating growing risks for fish, biodiversity, and overall water quality. Researchers warn that continued warming could make dead zones more common, especially in vulnerable regions where pollution and heat are already stressing river ecosystems.

mwc.umn.edu

Climate change is causing rivers to slowly lose oxygen, threatening fish and other life in the waterways, a new study shows.

05/15/2026

⛈🌀A new climate forecast shows El Niño is likely to return this year, with scientists warning there is a growing chance it could become a rare “super” El Niño. Stronger events can increase the likelihood of patterns, including intensified heat waves, shifts in rainfall, and changes to activity. Forecasters say El Niño has a high chance of lasting through winter, when its impacts are usually strongest.

mwc.umn.edu

El Niño is waiting in the wings. An updated forecast released by the National Weather Service on Thursday gave the climate phenomenon an 82% chance of taking over at some point between May and July…

05/13/2026

🚿 Shower curtains and liners are constantly exposed to moisture, making them a common place for mildew and mold growth. Allowing them to fully dry between uses by spreading them out and improving bathroom ventilation can help reduce buildup and odors over time.

mwc.umn.edu

05/11/2026

New research suggests Antarctic are melting faster than expected as warm water becomes trapped beneath grooves in the ice, intensifying melting in critical areas. Scientists warn current climate models may underestimate how vulnerable even colder parts of are to warming oceans. Because ice shelves help slow glaciers from flowing into the sea, their weakening could accelerate global beyond current projections.

mwc.umn.edu

Grooves beneath Antarctic ice shelves can trap warm ocean water, causing them to melt much more rapidly than expected.