A 99-million-year-old fossil discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of mosquitoes. The ancient larva shares modern species' morphology, challenging previous assumptions about their early evolution.
A new study reveals that fossil fuel companies are failing to invest in renewables, with only 20% owning an operational project and renewable energy representing just 0.1% of their primary energy extraction.
A 430-million-year-old fossil found in Wisconsin reveals that ancient leeches feasted on smaller marine creatures, challenging the assumption that they are bloodsuckers. The absence of a forward sucker in the fossil suggests a different early lifestyle for the group known as Hirudinida.
The Yunxian 2 cranium, dated to nearly one million years ago, exhibits a mix of primitive traits from earlier humans and more derived features shared with Homo longi and Homo sapiens. This suggests that the Yunxian group may represent a transitional form, capturing an early phase of rapid diversification within these lineages.
A new study explores why certain parts of reptiles, such as lizard jaws and snake vertebrae, are more likely to be preserved as fossils. The research reveals that physical characteristics like bone density and body size, as well as the environment in which the animals lived and died, are major predictors of fossil completeness.
Scientists have made significant progress in developing iron-based solar fuel systems, which could pave the way for cheaper and more sustainable fuels. The study reveals new mechanisms that enable efficient charge transfer between light-absorbing molecules and acceptor molecules, reducing energy losses and increasing efficiency.
A University of Delaware-led research team has developed a new type of catalyst that enhances conversion of plastic waste into liquid fuels more quickly and with fewer undesired byproducts. The catalyst achieves reaction rates nearly two times faster than those previously reported, producing targeted production of liquid fuels while mi...
The authors argue that energy availability has driven architectural design throughout history, with fossil fuels transforming buildings in the 17th century. They challenge conventional wisdom on sustainability, highlighting the high energy costs of modern minimalist designs like the Seagram Building.
Paleontologists have identified a new species of dinosaur from Triassic fossil beds in South Wales, using modern digital scanning techniques. The fossil jawbone was correctly identified after being on display for over 125 years.
Researchers at the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) demonstrate industrial viability of hydrothermal pretreatment for producing second-generation biofuels from oilcane lignocellulose. The study showcases an efficient method for converting oilcane into bioethanol, reducing dependence on foreign oil.
Fossilized marine invertebrates accurately reflect past ecosystems' functional diversity, offering a powerful tool for understanding long-term ecological change and informing modern conservation efforts. The study supports the growing field of conservation paleobiology by validating the use of functional diversity metrics in fossil data.
A new molecule has been developed that can store four charges simultaneously under light irradiation, two positive and two negative. This is an important step toward achieving artificial photosynthesis, which aims to convert sunlight into carbon-neutral fuels.
Researchers developed high-oxygen vacancy cerium catalysts with NiFe alloy heterostructures, significantly improving biomass ethanol T-SOFC efficiency and anti-carbon accumulation performance. The catalyst showed excellent catalytic activity and stable operation for up to 100 hours.
A new study from the University of Vaasa demonstrates that fuels refined from waste and industrial by-products can significantly reduce emissions in existing engine applications. Renewable naphtha and marine gas oil, derived from crude tall oil and recycled lubricants respectively, offer efficient and cleaner combustion options.
Researchers at ETSU's Gray Fossil Site have discovered the first fossil deer in North America, dating back 5 million years. The newly described fossils reveal the likely ancestor of modern white-tailed deer and highlight the incredible diversity of life that once flourished in Tennessee.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a method to produce environmentally friendly fuels using the furfural reduction reaction. By combining a zinc single-atom catalyst with an electrochemical reaction, they achieved high efficiency and selectivity in producing hydrofuroin, a precursor to aviation fuels.
Researchers unveiled the link between solid electrolyte interphase structure and nitrogen reduction to ammonia, a promising eco-friendly approach to fertilizer production. The study reveals that ethanol-to-water ratio in the electrolyte significantly impacts ammonia conversion efficiency.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have confirmed a more nuanced view of the Mazon Creek fossil site, using modern data analysis techniques to assess paleoenvironmental and taphonomic nature. The study reveals three identifiable paleoenvironments, including transitional habitats between nearshore and offshore zones.
Researchers at NUS developed a nickel-based material to catalyze CO2 reduction into liquid hydrocarbons. They achieved an over 400% improvement in branch-to-linear ratio of hydrocarbons with five or more carbon atoms compared to standard methods.
A new nickel-based catalyst has been developed to produce valuable liquid hydrocarbons from carbon dioxide, a key component in fuels like gasoline and jet fuel. The research shows that the catalyst can selectively promote the production of branched hydrocarbons, which are ideal for high-performance fuels.
A rare ichthyosaur fossil from the Late Triassic period was discovered in western Japan, providing significant insights into ichthyosaur evolution. The fossil's unique characteristics suggest a high swimming ability, offering valuable clues for understanding this marine-adapted reptile.
A recent review in Nature Reviews Clean Technology presents a pathway for scaling up decoupled water electrolysis technologies to produce industrial-scale green hydrogen. This clean alternative offers a low-carbon solution to replace fossil fuels and unlock the potential of replacing the world's dependency on fossil fuels.
Researchers have discovered hundreds of previously hidden fossilized squid beaks using a novel 'digital fossil-mining' approach. The findings indicate that squids originated around 100 million years ago and rapidly diversified thereafter, suggesting they played a key role in shaping modern ocean ecosystems.
A new study suggests that afforestation may not be a viable method for offsetting carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel reserves due to spatial requirements and financial viability. The analysis found that planting trees on an area larger than North America would be needed to offset the potential emissions, raising concerns about d...
Chinese researchers found well-preserved fossil fungal hyphae in a Jurassic petrified wood sample, providing the earliest evidence for this fungal group. The discovery suggests that blue-stain fungi originated during the Late Paleozoic or early Mesozoic era.
Researchers have developed a method to convert carbon dioxide into methanol, a versatile compound used in fuels and plastics. The process involves hydrogenating CO2 with the help of catalysts, which can produce e-fuels that are sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
Subsidies to agriculture, fossil fuels, and other sectors cause significant environmental degradation, threatening biodiversity and public health. The study highlights the urgent need for a transformation of the current economic model to protect nature and ensure well-being.
A recent study by Ryan Thombs found no association between renewable energy production and fossil fuel production in the US. Despite this, more than 96% of variation in fossil fuel production was explained by fixed factors such as fossil fuel endowments.
Researchers have made new discoveries about the ancient bird Archaeopteryx, including its ability to fly and its evolutionary history. The Chicago specimen, a well-preserved fossil found in Germany, provides insights into the species' cranial kinesis and soft tissues, challenging previous assumptions about its behavior.
A team of scientists has discovered a prehistoric tegu fossil in the US, revealing that these charismatic lizards were once native to North America. The fossil, dated to the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum, is believed to have been present in present-day Georgia during a warm period, before global temperatures cooled and they disappeared.
The BRICS countries, accounting for 45% of global GHG emissions, need to transition towards cleaner energy to achieve carbon neutrality goals. The study's energy-economic model projects that non-fossil fuel share will reach 85% in some nations by carbon neutrality deadlines.
Durham University scientists have reclassified a 500-million-year-old fossil as a distant relative of sponge-like creatures, chancelloriids. The reclassification reveals that the fossil's features were not indicative of molluscan biology, but rather preservation artefacts of the fossilisation process.
A new energy model reveals a striking similarity in all scenarios: the inevitable transition to renewable energy. However, achieving rapid cuts necessary to meet 1.5°C targets poses a challenge, with a potential 20-30 year gap between demand and supply.
Scientists have discovered a 113-million-year-old hell ant fossil in Brazil, representing the earliest undisputable geological record of ants. The find showcases highly specialized anatomical features, suggesting unique hunting behaviors in ancient insects.
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
A 16-million-year-old fossil of a newly discovered extinct dirt ant species, Basiceros enana, has been found in Dominican amber. The Caribbean species is notably smaller than its modern relatives, offering direct evidence of their presence in the region before local extinction.
A new radioisotopic dating method has been used to date key fossil sites in Central Anatolia, Türkiye, to between 7 and 10 million years ago. This provides a more accurate timeline for significant mammal fossils, including the large Miocene ape of the genus Ouranopithecus, potentially a common ancestor of African apes and early bipeds.
A Stanford study finds that a pivot to clean energy technologies by 2060 would improve energy security and reduce trade risks for most nations. The study analyzed potential new vulnerabilities under decarbonization relative to those associated with continued reliance on fossil fuels.
A new study led by UCL researchers found that the quality of the dinosaur fossil record worsened during the final 6 million years prior to the asteroid impact. The team analyzed over 8,000 fossils and estimated that dinosaurs may have been doing better than previously suggested in the lead-up to the asteroid impact.
Researchers found that burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers has a comparable environmental impact to low-sulfur fuels when considering various factors. The study suggests that scrubbers are a mature technology that can effectively reduce sulfur emissions, making them a viable option for shipping companies.
Fossil fuels are driving interlinked crises that threaten people, wildlife, and a livable future. The review highlights the importance of transitioning to clean, renewable energy and materials across the economy.
A new species of multisegmented fossil has been discovered in the Soom Shale with exceptionally preserved insides, including muscles, sinews, and tendons. The fossil, named Keurbos susanae, provides a unique glimpse into the evolutionary relationships of ancient arthropods.
A 30,000-year-old vulture fossil from Central Italy has preserved microscopic feather pigment structures in a mineral phase called zeolite. This new mode of preservation extends the understanding of soft tissue preservation in volcanic rocks.
Australian scientists have discovered a 15-million-year-old freshwater fish fossil, Ferruaspis brocksi, which provides a unique glimpse into the environment and behavior of ancient species. The fossil shows preserved stomach contents, including small phantom midge larvae and a parasite attached to its tail.
Researchers have successfully demonstrated the environmental benefits of turning CO₂ emissions into key chemical ingredients for essential consumer goods. The study found that waste CO₂ can be part of the solution rather than the problem, reducing GWP by around 82% for paper mill emissions.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a new method to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into formate, a chemical compound used in preservatives and pesticides. The breakthrough could lead to the development of alternative fuels and sustainable products, addressing environmental concerns.
A giant flying squirrel, weighing around three pounds, once soared through the skies over Southern Appalachia, gliding above rhinos and mastodons. The finding confirms that these ancient creatures crossed the Bering Land Bridge alongside other mammals about 5 million years ago.
The solar-powered reactor converts atmospheric CO2 into syngas, which can be used to produce chemicals and pharmaceuticals without contributing to global warming. The technology has the potential to solve two problems at once: removing CO2 from the atmosphere and creating a clean alternative to fossil fuels.
A nearly complete 69-million-year-old skull from the Cretaceous Period has provided new insights into the evolutionary history of modern birds. The fossil, Vegavis iaai, exhibits traits consistent with those of waterfowl and is now considered one of the earliest known members of this group.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge and the University of California, Berkeley have developed a practical way to produce hydrocarbons from carbon dioxide using copper nano-flowers on artificial leaves. The device produces more complex hydrocarbons with two carbon atoms, such as ethane and ethylene, which are key building blocks ...
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a low-carbon system that transforms materials like plastics and agricultural waste into syngas, producing high-quality chemicals and fuels. The technology achieves a purity of around 90% in a process that takes only a few minutes.
A Washington State University-led research team has developed a plant-based substitute for fossil fuels in polyurethane foams, which are used in various products. The bio-based foam is as strong and flexible as typical polyurethane foam, making it a promising sustainable alternative.
A fully preserved skull of Diatryma, a 45-million-year-old flightless bird, has been discovered in the Geiseltal Collection at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg. The fossil, which was initially misclassified as a crocodile skull, provides new insights into the evolution of animals during the Eocene Epoch.
A study published in PLOS Climate found substantial connections between fossil fuel, plastics, and agrichemical industries on Twitter. The research analyzed over 125,300 tweets from nine key players in these industries, revealing strong inter-sector connections, particularly between fossil fuel and plastics organizations.
A team of researchers has created an additive that can improve the functional characteristics of sustainable aviation fuels by adding aromatic hydrocarbons. The additive is made from recycled polystyrene and has been shown to perform almost as well as ethylbenzene derived from fossil fuels.
Researchers have discovered that combining nanofluids and turbulators can maximize their functions, leading to significant benefits in energy transfer, cooling, and heating. The study highlights the potential of these technologies to contribute to the global transition towards renewable energy sources.
Researchers estimate that human-made products store around 400 million tons of fossil carbon annually, equivalent to 9% of extracted fossil carbon. Recycling and increasing product lifetime can help reduce waste streams, while enacting policies to minimize landfill discharge is crucial.
A new study has uncovered the diversity of Proterozoic eukaryotes, showing that severe Cryogenian glaciations drove a pivotal shift in their evolution. The research provides valuable insights into the relationship between environmental changes and the evolutionary history of life on Earth.
Researchers found that animal-based products account for nearly 60% of agriculture's energy footprint worldwide. Despite improving efficiency, the world still relies heavily on fossil fuels to produce food, posing a risk to energy security and food supply.
A new study has uncovered a rare plant fossil with unusual flowers, fruits, and stems that does not belong to any living family or genus. The discovery suggests there may be more diversity in the fossil record of flowering plants than previously recognized.