Advanced Microscopy and Vision Technologies Increase Possibilities for the Environmental Sciences

Vision Technologies Enable the Exploration of the Natural Environment

Environmental sciences involve the study of biology, chemistry, geography, physics, and social sciences to gain an understanding of the effects of natural and unnatural processes on the environment. Optics in life sciences enable the exploration of sustainability from a scientific perspective. By evaluating the implications of climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss from a microscopic angle, scientists can encourage environmental change.

Microscopy plays a vital role in the study of the ecosystem in order to accurately observe a specific environment. Electron microscopy, in particular, is used in environmental sciences for increased magnification of specimens. For example, it is used to formulate deforestation control policies by studying the effects of intense overgrazing or deforestation, which is having a hazardous effect on climate change.

Field biologists also leverage microscopy to observe marine environments to identify the number and types of organisms sustained in ecosystem samples. This enables scientists to determine possible environmental threats. It also offers a better understanding of organisms and their relationship with the ecosystem.

Continued advances in microscopy and vision technologies are providing the interdisciplinary environmental sciences with the capabilities they require for in-depth study of the complexities of Earth and its natural resources.