Lake Erie has become increasingly susceptible to large blooms of toxin-producing cyanobacteria since 2002, potentially complicating efforts to rein in the problem in the wake of this year's Toledo drinking water crisis, according to a new study led by University of Michigan researchers.

Previously undocumented in North American rivers, concentrations of microplastic particles in the St. Lawrence found to be as high as in the world’s most contaminated ocean sediments.

A microbe developed to clean up nuclear waste and patented by a Michigan State University researcher has just been improved.

Gas leaks from faulty wells linked to contamination in some groundwater.

Discovery of three new bacteria that could break down PCBs more effectively.

Caltech researchers have developed a novel way to visualize proteins generated by microorganisms in their natural environment—including the murky waters of Caltech's lily pond, as in this image created by Professor of Geobiology Victoria Orphan and her colleagues. The method could give scientists insights to how uncultured microbes (organisms that may not easily be grown in the lab) react and adapt to environmental stimuli over space and time. 

Late summer is the peak time for harmful algae that can turn lakes into toxic scum, canceling fishing trips and fouling water supplies. While the Pacific Northwest doesn’t get anything near the activity that turned parts of Lake Erie into bright green slime, our coasts are vulnerable in late summer to this largely unpredictable – and in our case unseen – menace.

Increased water-recycling and improved irrigation techniques among six strategies identified as key to successfully reducing global water scarcity.

Citing concern about suspected threats to the health of humans and wildlife, the European Union’s Marie Curie European Industrial Doctorate program has awarded a €1.2 million research grant to four early-stage researchers from Asia, Australia and Europe to study the environmental effects of one of the most common types of flame retardants.

The sweet and salty aroma of sunscreen and seawater signals a relaxing trip to the shore. But scientists are now reporting that the idyllic beach vacation comes with an environmental hitch.