An Android app that measures atmospheric pressure is now feeding that distributed data to scientists working on better ways to predict the weather.  The app, called Pressure Net, highlights the potential of distributed sensing using mobile devices and shows how the sophisticated sensors found in modern smartphones could be harnessed for research. It was launched in late 2011 By Jacob Sheehy, a software developer for Flighthub.com, 

New research suggests that a key part of Antarctica is warming up fast; the finding could help change the outlook for sea level rise this century. ESS‘ Eric Steig is included in this interview; check out the audio, video, and transcript here! 

As part of an agreement between the Washington Department of Transportation, the Arboretum and Botanical Garden Committee, Seattle Parks and Recreation is receiving $7.8 million from the state to make improvements at the Arboretum as part of the 520 Bridge replacement project. Read more about this historic agreement! 

Foodie: n. A person that spends a keen amount of attention and energy on knowing the ingredients of food, the proper preparation of food, and finds great enjoyment in top-notch ingredients and exemplary preparation. Seattle is full of foodies, and a particular focus of our foodie culture is sustainability. UW is full of foodies too: faculty, staff and students across campus departments and schools study and teach about food, agriculture, and the implications of our global food system.