ENVIRONMENT In the Swiss Alps, efforts to stop glacial melting have become commonplace. Each year, for example, a group of residents makes its way to the Rhône Glacier to cover up the ice in huge white blankets. (Smithsonian) Adapt our activity to learn more about how light-colored surfaces have a cooling effect on Earth. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in … Continue reading Switzerland Protects the Alps with a Blanket
SCIENCE Otzi the Iceman, a frozen mummy from the Italian Alps, may have died with a wicked stomach ache—which helps date migration waves from Africa and Asia. (Nat Geo News) Use our resources to learn more about Otzi. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources, including a link to today’s simple MapMaker Interactive map. Discussion Ideas Take a look at the photograph … Continue reading Iceman’s Gut Holds Clues to Human Migration
WORLD The return of indigenous wolves to the French Alps has been a victory for conservation—and a catastrophe for the local shepherding community. Wolves have killed at least 20,000 sheep in the past five years, threatening an historic, sustainable agricultural lifestyle. (New York Times) Use our resources to better understand herding in the Alps. Discussion Ideas Read our encyclopedic entry on herding. What type of … Continue reading Wolves’ Return to French Alps Not Always Welcome
