A Scottish startup is scaling up its whisky waste-to-fuel process, converting draff and pot ale into ethanol and 1-butanol. The company has secured funding from the UK government and private investors to move towards a commercial plant.
A Clemson University-led research team aims to develop materials that can encase nuclear waste for safe storage. The project focuses on crystalline ceramic based on naturally occurring minerals that endure for millions of years.
Washington State University researchers have developed a unique method to use microbes in pond sediment to power waste cleanup in rural areas. The microbe-powered system reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing biological reactions from microbes to generate electricity.
Researchers have discovered bacteria that can survive in highly alkaline conditions expected in radioactive waste disposal sites and use isosaccharinic acid as a food source. These microbes may prevent the release of toxic radionuclides into the environment, offering a potential solution for safe nuclear waste disposal.
Researchers developed a novel process to convert rice, parsley and vegetable waste into biodegradable plastic films with promising traits. The bioplastics have the potential to replace non-degrading polymers and provide a more environmentally friendly option for replacing synthetic plastics.
The study found that skull-base heating can result in hazardous temperature elevations when sonications are performed close to the skull-base. Three new methods to counteract this phenomenon were developed. Additionally, the formation of standing-waves is greatly reduced with specifically designed large-area ultrasound transducers.
A study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that mobile phone text messages after an ER visit reduced binge drinking in young adults by over 50%. The intervention, which included text message queries and feedback, led to a 51% decrease in self-reported binge drinking days.
The Environmental Crime Program Training (Project EnCriPT) offers a range of free, online courses on environmental enforcement and public health issues. These courses will help strengthen enforcement efforts across various levels and provide hands-on experience in processing hazardous materials scenes.
A new study found that alcohol sponsorship in UK athletes is associated with higher odds of hazardous drinking and increased consumption. Sportspeople sponsored by an alcohol-related industry had higher rates of problem drinking compared to non-sponsored athletes.
A new study by the University of Manchester and Monash University found a strong link between alcohol industry sponsorship and hazardous drinking among UK athletes. The research revealed that athletes receiving sponsorships from beer and pub industries were more likely to exhibit high levels of alcohol consumption.
A NIOSH study reveals extremely hazardous carbon monoxide concentrations can accumulate near rear decks of uncontrolled gasoline-powered generators on houseboats. Innovative engineering controls have reduced exposure by up to 99 percent, enhancing safer working environments for boat users.
A scientific review paper calls for collaboration to address the challenges of date labeling in the food industry, contributing to financial loss and food waste. Research highlights that inconsistent labeling practices lead to consumer confusion, resulting in significant food waste.
The University of Kentucky's Superfund Research Center has received a significant grant to investigate the health impacts of toxic chemicals on humans and the environment. The research center aims to develop new methods for detecting hazardous chemicals and cleaning up contaminated sites.
India's population of 1.3 billion will generate over 900 million notebook computers past their life expectancy by 2025, highlighting the need for effective e-waste recycling infrastructure. The study estimates that over a billion PCs will be obsolete by 2020, posing significant risks to human health and the environment.
Experts warn of acute health and environmental concerns due to growing e-waste generation in Latin America, with the region's middle class driving demand for electronic equipment. The UN-backed academy aims to foster multi-stakeholder partnerships to address e-waste management, but regulatory instruments remain limited.
Researchers have confirmed that Chlamydomonas acidophila microalgae can grow in agri-food waste effluent and assimilate ammonium, preventing air pollution. The resulting biomass can be used as animal feed, compost or fertilizer, and is a rich source of lutein, a powerful antioxidant.
Paul Glasziou argues that open access models can reduce research waste and improve the quality of medical research. He suggests that charities and governments should publish funded work in open access to make it more effective, as $100 billion of pre- and post-publication research is wasted annually.
Researchers at MIT and Stanford University have developed a new approach to harnessing low-temperature waste heat, leveraging the thermogalvanic effect to produce electricity. The system combines battery charging-discharging cycles with heating and cooling, allowing for efficient energy conversion even with small temperature differences.
A new fuel-cell concept developed by Michigan State University researcher Gemma Reguera allows biodiesel plants to eliminate hazardous wastes and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The platform uses microbes to clean up wastewater and produce bioethanol, which can be reused to make biodiesel.
A new study reveals that adolescents who participate in sports exhibit significantly lower rates of hazardous drinking compared to their non-athletic peers. This finding contradicts earlier research, suggesting that organized sports participation may have a protective effect against alcohol misuse among young offenders.
The project evaluated environmental technologies on livestock farms in the Atlantic Area, focusing on reducing emissions and improving waste management. Collective treatments in waste treatment and use have been found to be effective.
A new study has found that flame retardants are prevalent indoors in preschools and day care centers, potentially exposing young children to hazardous chemicals. The study reveals high levels of PBDEs and tris phosphate compounds in dust samples, with concentrations often higher in facilities with foam equipment.
Researchers found that at least one in four Medicare recipients received wasteful services in 2009, resulting in $1.9 billion in unnecessary spending. The study used novel methods to measure low-value care and provides tools for evaluating reform efforts aimed at reducing waste.
Scientists at the University of Cologne have discovered a new method to produce hydrogen from water and formaldehyde. The approach can be used to break down contaminants in industrial waste water while generating hydrogen, reclaiming an important raw material.
Scientists have developed a new technique to convert astronaut urine into fuel and drinking water, reducing the waste burden in space missions. The Urea Bioreactor Electrochemical system efficiently converts urea into ammonia, which is then turned into energy with a fuel cell.
The CU-Boulder toilet uses concentrated sunlight to heat human waste, disinfect pathogens, and produce biochar, which can increase crop yields and sequester carbon dioxide. The project aims to improve sanitation in developing countries, reducing deaths from food and water tainted with fecal matter.
New USDA guidelines have increased consumption of fruits and vegetables among low-income students without leading to an increase in food waste. Students now select a fruit or vegetable as part of their lunch, resulting in improved nutrition.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that the new federal school meal standards led to increased fruit and vegetable consumption among students. Despite criticism that the standards would lead to more food waste, the study showed no increase in waste, but high levels of waste still persisted.
A study of 267 CKD patients found that 69.3% experienced at least one hazardous event related to their outpatient care, with hypoglycemia and falling/severe dizziness being common complications.
Researchers found high levels of antibiotic-resistant genes in river water during peak pilgrimage season, linked to overcrowding and poor waste management. The study emphasizes the importance of protecting sacred sites while preventing the spread of 'superbugs', highlighting the need for improved sanitation and waste treatment.
A new study reveals that subcritical hydrothermal treatment can convert paper sludge into fuel with a composition similar to coal. The process has the added benefit of diverting waste from landfills and reducing pollution.
Researchers in India have developed a low-temperature process to convert LDPE into liquid fuel, releasing carbon-rich molecules that are similar to conventional petrochemical fuels. The process uses kaolin catalyst and can produce up to 700 grams of liquid fuel per kilogram of waste plastic.
A £8 million project at the University of Leeds is developing new technologies to handle different types of spent fuels, packaging and storing waste, and dealing with nuclear sludges. The research consortium brings together academics, industry experts, and government advisors to tackle Britain's nuclear legacy.
The Lancet research series aims to increase value and reduce waste in biomedical research by setting clear priorities, improving research design and conduct, and enhancing regulation and management. The series proposes metrics for stakeholders to monitor the implementation of recommendations.
Researchers have successfully paired bacteria with loofahs to create a power-generating microbial fuel cell, outperforming traditional devices. This innovative method uses low-cost, sustainable natural materials to generate clean energy from waste.
The SIKELOR project seeks to process silicon waste from solar panel production through electromagnetic stirring and separation. The goal is to develop an industrially viable and resource-friendly method for recycling silicon waste, potentially reducing production costs and increasing efficiency.
Researchers have developed software that can learn from a patient's normal and seizure electrical activity to predict when another seizure may occur. This allows for an early warning system, potentially enabling people with epilepsy to live safer lives by avoiding hazardous situations before a seizure begins.
Researchers have created an artificial heart that can pump human waste into future robots, powering eco-friendly systems. The device uses shape memory alloys to mimic the human heart's pumping action and is more mechanically simpler than conventional pumps.
A new study from the University of Sheffield has developed a method to reduce the volume of plutonium-contaminated nuclear waste by 85-95%. This approach involves mixing the waste with blast furnace slag and turning it into glass, creating a stable end product that effectively locks in radioactive materials.
A historic 9-month fire fueled a surge in tire recycling, reducing toxic waste and producing eco-friendly mulch, fill material, and power sources. Advances in fire monitoring enabled faster blaze prediction and response.
Geologists are exploring shales as a potential site for America's spent nuclear fuel, with some formations showing natural groundwater pressure anomalies that can be analyzed on a large scale. A new computer model is also being developed to evaluate the behavior of various forms of nuclear waste and waste containers in different rocks.
A new study by the American Chemical Society found that state e-waste recycling bans have been largely ineffective in reducing electronic waste disposal. However, providing more information to women and older people could increase the effectiveness of these bans and recycling programs.
Scientists present innovative approaches to reduce hazardous substances in production processes, using renewable materials and minimizing waste. The symposium features topics such as banana-peel powder removal of toxic metals from water and sustainable nanoparticle production.
University of Cincinnati researchers have made early discoveries on converting waste coffee grounds into energy sources, including biodiesel and activated carbon. The process involves extracting oil, drying the grounds, and burning what's left as an alternative energy source, with promising results in reducing emissions.
A comprehensive review of food waste in China reveals that approximately 19% of grain produced goes to waste, with related losses of water and farmland productivity. This translates to an estimated 177 billion cubic yards of wasted water and 64 million acres of unused cropland.
A recent study published in BMJ Open found that lesbian and gay young people in England are twice as likely to smoke and drink alcohol compared to their heterosexual peers. The research also revealed that gay and lesbian young people have more frequent and hazardous drinking patterns.
Researchers developed yeast strains that efficiently produce bio-ethanol from waste, overcoming previous limitations. The new strains have unprecedented efficiency and robustness, making them suitable for industrial fermentation processes.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge developed a biofertiliser that enables crops to be grown on coal waste, achieving nearly twice the weight and yield of those grown in garden soil. The additive boosts plant nutrition, regulates water, and maintains an ideal environment for growth.
Large earthquakes from distant parts of the globe are triggering tremors around US waste-fluid injection wells, according to a new study. The phenomenon could indicate critically stressed faults that may soon host larger earthquakes.
Scientists identify glymphatic system as a potentially powerful tool for treating neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease. The system is responsible for removing waste from the brain, and its dysfunction may contribute to these conditions.
A new study suggests that Li-ion battery disposal can lead to environmental and human health threats due to the release of toxic materials. The American Chemical Society recommends stronger government policies to encourage recovery, recycling, and reuse of lithium-ion battery materials.
A study found that children living near toxic waste sites in lower and middle income countries have high blood lead levels, resulting in a loss of IQ points and higher incidence of mental retardation. The researchers estimated that 6 out of every 1,000 children could experience mild mental retardation.
A study by a Mount Sinai researcher found that toxic waste sites with high levels of lead and chromium cause a significant number of 'healthy years of life lost' among individuals living near the sites. The study calculated 828,722 lost years of full health due to disease, disability, or early death.
A recent study investigated public perception of how waste disposal sites affect residents living nearby, particularly odor and local pollution concerns. The study found that odour perception diminished over time as the facilities were closed, and older residents reported more concern about health impacts.
The Yale Journal of Industrial Ecology examines the impact of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) on e-waste recycling. Researchers assess the use of RFID technology, EPR adoption in developing countries, and producer take-back organizations to improve recyclability.
Researchers found that chickens with larger digestive organs eat less feed and produce less waste, potentially saving farmers up to 9.76 tons of feed per hatch. Selecting for this trait could also help identify the genes controlling digestive efficiency in chickens.
A new method of creating chemical reactions, using high-speed ball-milling, eliminates waste and outperforms traditional solutions. This approach has potential applications in pharmaceutical companies, detergents, plastics, and other industries.
Reducing food waste is vital to feed a global population of 9 billion by 2050. Scientists estimate that up to half of the food harvested from farmers' fields in developing countries is lost due to spoilage and pests. In developed countries, households throw away about 4 out of every 10 pounds of food produced each year.
A Rice University team has found that using waste heat can remove more CO2 from coal-fired power plant emissions economically. The researchers hope to reduce the costs of CO2 capture by creating an integrated reaction column that uses waste heat, engineered materials and optimized components.
A new membrane developed by researchers at Wits University can effectively separate waste from water, making it suitable for treating pollutants in various processes. The technology has the potential to filter pure water from wastewater produced during mining, oil and gas exploration, and nuclear activities.