Electricity is important to power our homes, towns, and cities. It is produced in many ways, however, some of the most common ways often have a large environmental impact. Fossil fuels amount to 60% of US power and produced 1,542 metric tons of CO2 in 2022. There have been many efforts to find an alternative to energy production that is renewable, lessening the impact on the environment. These efforts include solar, wind, geothermal, and hydropower. Hydropower makes up 6.2% of the total power produced in the US. They produce no emissions to operate and are infinitely renewable as long as there ..read more

TLDR Version: Lake Michigan (USA): Lake Michigan is one of the Great Lakes of North America and has played a significant role in the region’s history, from early Native American settlements to the development of major cities like Chicago. Lake Michigan: The Majestic Gem of the Great Lakes Nestled among the scenic landscapes of the American Midwest, Lake Michigan is a breathtaking natural wonder that boasts not only stunning beauty but also a rich history and a multitude of recreational opportunities. Let’s explore the enchanting story of Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan is one of the five Great La ..read more

TLDR Version: Dead Sea (Jordan/Israel): The Dead Sea is famous for its extremely high salt concentration, which allows people to float effortlessly on its surface. It also has a rich history, mentioned in various ancient texts. The Dead Sea: Nature’s Saltwater Sanctuary Tucked away between Jordan and Israel lies a natural wonder unlike any other—the Dead Sea. Known for its extreme salinity, mineral-rich waters, and unique healing properties, this ancient body of water has been captivating travelers and health enthusiasts for centuries. Let’s dive into the fascinating story of the Dead Sea. The ..read more

Acid mine drainage poses a major problem to the environment and drinking water resources in the surrounding area. We will explore remediation techniques, mitigation techniques, and the environmental and economic hazards which stem from acid mine drainage. Examples of sites that were not managed properly and the consequences are the Eagle Mine in Minturn, Colorado and the Gold King Mine/Animas River Disaster near Silverton, Colorado. The processes by which acid mine drainage occurs will also be examined. Mine workings interrupt the natural cycle of water filtration through the earth. Where wate ..read more

TLDR: Landfill leachate is a liquid waste product that forms as water interacts with waste materials in landfills. It contains a mixture of pollutants and must be carefully collected, treated, and managed to prevent environmental contamination and safeguard human health. Stringent regulations and proper leachate management practices are essential to address the challenges associated with landfill leachate. IX Water is working to help treat landfill leachate at a landfill near us! Landfill leachate is the term for the liquid that is generated when water comes into contact with waste materials i ..read more

A Rolling mill. You can see the steel being cooled with a continuous water spray. Steel mills use tens of millions of gallons of water each day. Steel production takes a lot of water. Water is a crucial component in industrial steelmaking processes, primarily used for cooling and as a medium for various chemical reactions. Steel has a melting point between 2500 and 2800°F or 1371 and 1540°C, and as you’d expect it would take a long time for a newly completed steel beam to cool down. Water is extensively employed for cooling purposes in steel plants. High temperatures are generated during vario ..read more

TLDR Version: Great Salt Lake (USA): Located in Utah, the Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. It’s saltier than the ocean and has an interesting history of resource extraction and conservation efforts. Great Salt Lake: America’s Inland Sea Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Utah, the Great Salt Lake stands as one of the most unique natural wonders in the United States. This massive saline lake has intrigued scientists, captivated adventurers, and inspired artists for generations. Let’s dive into the fascinating story of the Great Salt Lake. The Gr ..read more

TLDR Version: Lake Nyos (Cameroon): This African lake is known for a tragic event in 1986 when a sudden release of carbon dioxide from its depths suffocated nearby villagers, resulting in the deaths of nearly 1,800 people and countless livestock. Lake Nyos: The Silent Killer and Scientific Mystery Deep in the heart of Cameroon in Central Africa, Lake Nyos is a place of both natural beauty and haunting tragedy. Known as a “killer lake,” it holds a dark secret that has fascinated scientists and captured the world’s attention. This is the story of Lake Nyos, a unique and enigmatic body of water ..read more

TLDR Version: Lake Titicaca (Peru/Bolivia): Lake Titicaca is not only the largest lake in South America but also the highest navigable lake in the world. It has a rich history, with several ancient cultures, including the Incas, considering it sacred. Lake Titicaca: The Enigmatic Jewel of the Andes Perched high in the Andes Mountains of South America, Lake Titicaca is a captivating and mystical body of water that beckons travelers and explorers from around the world. This ancient lake, known for its breathtaking beauty and cultural significance, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a ..read more

TLDR Version: Mono Lake (USA): Situated in California, Mono Lake is famous for its alkaline water and the unusual limestone formations known as tufa towers. It also hosts a unique ecosystem adapted to its high salinity.   Nestled within the rugged landscapes of California’s Eastern Sierra region lies a truly remarkable and ancient body of water: Mono Lake. This timeless oasis, known for its dramatic scenery and unique ecological significance, has a history as intriguing as its otherworldly appearance. Mono Lake stands out for its high salinity, alkalinity, and striking appearance. Its wat ..read more