John R. Platt is a freelance journalist specializing in environmental issues, cutting-edge technology, and entrepreneurship. He writes about endangered species for Scientific American and green technology for several publishers. John lives on the coast of Maine where he spends his spare time drawing cartoons. Visit him online at www.johnrplatt.com.
Starfish make remarkable comeback in California years after deadly disease outbreak
January 31, 2019, 10:20 a.m. by John Platt
The disease caused starfish to lose their limbs, dissolve and die.
Scientists discover 60% wild coffee species are under threat of extinction
January 17, 2019, 12:14 p.m. by John Platt
The world's most popular type, Arabica, is now listed as endangered.
Is beach restoration a forever task?
September 28, 2018, 11:18 a.m. by John Platt
Beaches change — whether from natural erosion or from storms such as Hurricane Florence. That's where human intervention can play a role.
Chagas disease more deadly than we thought
August 23, 2018, 2:13 p.m. by John Platt
Transmitted by the kissing bug, this parasite can damage the heart.
You can thank 1940s sex symbol Hedy Lamarr for today's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices
August 7, 2018, 10:57 a.m. by John Platt
The actress helped invent spread-spectrum radio technology, the precursor of modern wireless communications.
Fabled 'Gate to Hell' really did kill people — and now we know why
July 30, 2018, 10:19 a.m. by John Platt
The ancient Romans saw 'Pluto's Gate' as the entrance to the underworld.
Invasive plant that can cause blindness pops up in Virginia for first time
June 18, 2018, 10:10 a.m. by John Platt
Touching a giant hogweed can cause burns and even blindness.
Cyberslacking boosts workplace productivity
May 21, 2018, 11:08 a.m. by John Platt
Checking Facebook and laughing at LOLcats makes you a more productive worker, research shows.
Why San Diego's tides are glowing blue
May 10, 2018, 10:31 a.m. by John Platt
Bioluminescent algae blooms every few years on the California coast.
Is Amazon Prime eco-friendly or wasteful?
April 19, 2018, 8:42 a.m. by John Platt
Does the ease of free, one-click shipping outweigh the potential environmental costs?
Did researchers find Amelia Earhart's skeleton?
March 8, 2018, 10:56 a.m. by John Platt
Remains found in 1940 and analyzed in recent years may be the pilot.
Should texting while walking be banned?
February 27, 2018, 10:04 a.m. by John Platt
More places want to fine people who cross the street with their eyes glued to their phones.
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Interactive map plots your address over 750 million years of Earth's history
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9 of the world's largest dog breeds
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How to use succulents as outdoor annuals
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Golf courses across U.S. step up to save monarch butterflies
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Students in Finland offer a succinct lesson in commuting
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12 human foods dogs can eat and 5 they shouldn't
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10 of the snowiest places
Some of these cities get hundreds of inches of snow each year.
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These places always have gorgeous weather
Sunny and 80 degrees? Sign us up! These locales are the perfect escape from the cold.
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14 spectacular ice caves
Whether they're hiding beneath glaciers or inside a mountain, ice caves are strange and surreal.
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A breathtaking look at our national parks
Whether you're an armchair traveler or planning a trip, enjoy these winter wonderlands.
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10-not-too-cold destinations
Just because you're going north for the winter doesn't mean you'll get frozen.
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