Science Quickly A Farewell to 2024, and What We’re Following in the New Year
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Dec 23, 2024 
Andrea Thompson, an Earth and Environment News Editor at Scientific American, and Ben Guarino, the Associate Technology Editor, share insights on the year's climate catastrophes, including record-breaking hurricanes and heat waves. They discuss significant health advancements like non-addictive pain meds and uterus transplants. The conversation also dives into generative AI's impact on society and challenges facing artists. Thompson and Guarino reflect on the science themes of 2024 and what to watch for in 2025, wrapping up with holiday cheer.
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Extreme Weather Events in 2024
- 2024 brought record-breaking heat, hurricanes, and floods, impacting regions worldwide.
- These extremes, worsened by climate change, aren't future problems; they're happening now.
Record-Breaking Heat
- 2024 is the hottest year on record, surpassing 2023's record by a significant margin.
- A weak La Niña might slightly cool 2025, but it will likely still be among the hottest years.
Health Advances in 2024
- Scientists discovered a new non-addictive pain medication to potentially replace opioids.
- A new uterus transplant method allows those born without a uterus to give birth.