The NUS team has developed a method to convert crustacean shells and wood waste into L-DOPA, a widely used drug for Parkinson's disease, and Proline, essential for collagen and cartilage formation. The process combines chemical and biological approaches, potentially reducing reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels.
SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 29, 2020
A team of West Virginia University researchers are developing a protective jacket for tank cars that haul hazardous materials to prevent spills and leaks caused by accidents. The new composite material, made up of glass and polymer, improves fatigue, puncture, and fire resistance qualities.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
A new method transforms waste polyethylene into long-chain alkylaromatic compounds without high temperatures or pressures. The process could pave the way for a circular plastics economy and make non-fossil-based plastics more economically attractive.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 22, 2020
Researchers developed a new material that can separate CO2 from industrial waste gases, natural gas, and biogas without chemically binding it. The process is energy-efficient and cost-effective, making it an important contribution to climate protection and sustainable industrial production.
SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 20, 2020
Cities are crucial actors in tackling food waste, launching effective policies and initiatives to address it. A new framework for assessing urban food waste policies and initiatives has been presented, highlighting the importance of integrated management and multi-actorial collaboration.
SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalResources·DateOct 19, 2020
A NUS study found that poor outdoor air quality in China drives consumers to use food delivery services, resulting in increased plastic waste from packaging. The study revealed a strong causal link between air pollution and plastic waste, with a 100 μg/m³ increase in PM2.5 levels raising food delivery consumption by 7.2%.
SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateOct 19, 2020
A microbiology laboratory in Edinburgh reduces its plastic waste by 43kg per year using re-useable equipment and decontaminating plastic tubes. The team develops a new approach to reduce single-use plastics, saving over £400 and promoting sustainable practices in research labs.
SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalAccess Microbiology·DateOct 15, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A new digital intervention developed by pharmacists has significantly reduced hazardous prescribing rates in general practice, with a 43% reduction reported after 12 months. The SMASH intervention uses real-time data to identify patients at risk and provides near-constant feedback to prescribers.
SourceNIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 14, 2020
A recent study led by ASU researcher Chris Wharton found that a values-based intervention can reduce household food waste by an average of 28%. The intervention used clear plastic bins to track food waste and highlighted the impact of cost, health, and environmental concerns. Participants reported that watching their waste build up pro...
SourceArizona State University·JournalResources·DateOct 5, 2020
A new research project aims to develop a camera-based separation system that can categorize plastic waste according to its specific properties. The technology will increase the quality of recycled plastics and improve traceability, aiming for a purity of at least 96% by polymer type.
Reusing tableware can significantly reduce plastic waste and emissions from online food deliveries. Silicone reusable tableware offers a promising solution, reducing waste by up to 92% and environmental emissions by more than two-thirds.
SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Food·DateSep 25, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A study published in the Western Journal of Emergency Medicine found that 85% of medical waste does not meet regulated standards for disposal. By implementing changes such as reusable devices, better sorting of infectious waste, and effective recycling, hospitals can reduce waste while saving costs. The study suggests that hospitals co...
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalWestern Journal of Emergency Medicine·DateSep 24, 2020
A new study found that wildfire smoke leads to a 6.1% increase in medical visits for asthma patients compared to days with similar pollution levels from other sources. The research team suggests that wildfire PM is more hazardous than non-wildfire PM for asthma patients, likely due to differences in chemical composition or human behavior.
SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateSep 22, 2020
Researchers at Michigan Tech and the University of Illinois are working on a project to convert plastic waste into protein powder and lubricants using chemical and high heat deconstruction. The team aims to develop a system that can break down plastic quickly, producing nutritional supplements and fuel.
A study published in Geoderma journal reveals that iron minerals and bacteria are main agents of carbon dioxide emissions from soil. Iron facilitates formation of active oxygen forms that destroy plant waste and promote CO2 emissions.
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Research reveals that circadian rhythms play a crucial role in guiding waste removal from the brain through the glymphatic system. The study found that individuals who rely on daytime sleep are at higher risk for developing neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's and dementia.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 2020
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a novel method using fruit peel waste to extract and reuse precious metals from spent lithium-ion batteries. The process creates minimal waste and can be scaled up for industrial use, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional methods.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 26, 2020
A new study reveals that plastic waste can release harmful chemicals into the stomach oil of seabirds like northern fulmars, potentially affecting their health over extended periods. The research highlights the importance of reducing plastic pollution in our oceans and dealing with waste responsibly.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·DateAug 19, 2020
Researchers create antioxidant-boosted milk chocolate by combining peanut skins and coffee waste with maltodextrin. The resulting confection has higher chemical antioxidant activity than most dark chocolates and is undetectable in flavor.
Researchers at the University of Arizona are developing a hybrid solar desalination system that combines membrane distillation, concentrated solar power, and photovoltaics to recover water from concentrated waste streams. The system uses renewable energy resources to purify concentrate streams with maximum efficiency.
SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateAug 5, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Scientists at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research developed nano-sponges of solid acid that convert carbon dioxide into fuel and plastic waste into chemicals. The material exhibits strong acidity and high surface area, making it a promising catalyst for sustainable processes.
SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2020
A new material combines recycled concrete aggregate and rubber in a mix precisely optimised to meet road engineering safety standards. The blend is more flexible than standard materials, making roads less prone to cracking and delivering both environmental and engineering benefits.
SourceRMIT University·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateJul 29, 2020
Researchers develop microrecycling strategy to convert e-waste into a strong, protective coating for metal. The new material combines copper and silica compounds to form a durable hybrid layer that increases steel hardness by 125%.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateJul 29, 2020
A new study models a 78% reduction in global plastic pollution by 2040 with immediate and coordinated action. However, even this best-case scenario predicts 710 million metric tons of plastic will still reach the environment.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A team of global experts predicts that plastic waste flowing into the seas each year could more than double by 2040, with 710 million tonnes expected to be discarded into the environment. Improving waste collection services is seen as the single most effective step in reducing pollution.
Researchers discovered a new chemical approach using lithium hydroxide as a catalyst, enabling efficient production of biodiesel from cooking oil waste. The method achieved an average yield of 90% and showed promising results for future studies on biofuel production.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJul 21, 2020
A new methodological guide developed by the University of the Basque Country aims to optimize radioactive waste management during nuclear facility dismantling. The project focuses on in situ measurements and characterizing strategies for constrained environments, aiming to improve dismantling processes and public perception.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalProgress in Nuclear Energy·DateJul 8, 2020
A new study found that European countries are exporting large amounts of plastic waste to Asia, where it is often not recycled and ends up in the ocean. The research estimated that between 1-7% of all exported European polyethylene ended up in the ocean, contributing to significant environmental and social impacts.
SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalEnvironment International·DateJun 30, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A study by Baylor College of Medicine researchers reveals that defective CLN6 causes toxic waste accumulation in cells, leading to progressive degeneration and cell death. The researchers found that CLN6 works together with CLN8 to transport enzymes to lysosomes, and when CLN6 is defective, this process is impaired.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 29, 2020
Researchers have synthesized a porphyrin polymer that can capture precious metals from chemically digested electronic waste. The polymer, COP-180, shows high efficiency in capturing gold, with an estimated worth of $64 per $5 of the material.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2020
Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have developed a new sustainable method to extract vanillin from lignin, reducing toxic waste and increasing commercial viability. The process uses electrolytic depolymerization in caustic soda, producing high-quality vanillin with a yield of around four percent.
SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJun 3, 2020
A team of researchers has discovered a way to create a nitrogen-rich fertilizer using human waste, which could increase agriculture yields in developing countries and reduce groundwater contamination. The new method involves recycling nitrogen from urine through a process involving biochar and CO2 priming.
SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJun 2, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Hurricane flooding can lead to widespread water pollution, affecting human health and ecosystems. Researchers have developed an algorithm to identify flooded areas beyond state-mapped hazard zones, with a focus on vulnerable communities and potential sources of pollution.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 1, 2020
Researchers create a new sorbent to extract hazardous radionuclides cesium (137Cs) and strontium (90Sr) from contaminated water. The sorbent can be used in both static and dynamic modes, with high filtration efficiency, and can be regenerated for up to five cycles.
SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalJournal of Materials Science·DateMay 29, 2020
A new study by UMD researchers highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations in reducing global food waste due to date labeling. The study aims to clarify the science or lack thereof behind food date labels, with a focus on developing interventions to reduce behaviors that increase food waste.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalFood Control·DateMay 14, 2020
Gen3Bio Inc., a Purdue University-affiliated startup, has developed proprietary technology to transform waste algae into specialty chemicals. The company has received $20,000 in investments through the Elevate Nexus Regional Pre-Seed competition and a $20,000 pilot plant grant from The Water Council.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a green method to create chitin, using two forms of food waste - prawn shells and discarded fruit - and fermenting them. The new process is more sustainable than current approaches, reducing energy consumption and chemical by-products.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAMB Express·DateMay 8, 2020
A team at Tokyo University of Science created a high-resolution map of 1 km grids to track plastic emissions from land to sea. Their analysis revealed that MicP concentrations and basin characteristics are significantly correlated, indicating that physical features of water bodies dictate the amount of plastic waste accumulated.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalWater·DateMay 7, 2020
A recent study published in the American Journal of Orthopsychiatry has reported a high level of hazardous drinking and potential alcohol-use disorders among Pacific Islander young adults in the US. The study found that 56% of participants screened positive for hazardous drinking, with 49% experiencing active alcohol-use disorders, rat...
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAmerican Journal of Orthopsychiatry·DateMay 5, 2020
Texas A&M University engineers have devised a simple one-step chemical reaction to separate out different components of nuclear waste. The method results in the formation of crystals containing all leftover nuclear fuel elements uniformly, reducing radioactivity and proliferation risk.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateMay 4, 2020
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have found a way to recycle used polyurethanes into equivalent or even higher quality material, solving the issue of conventional waste lingering in landfills.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 30, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Researchers are studying salt deposits as a long-term disposal solution for high-level nuclear waste, which can create heat and radioactivity. The US Department of Energy is conducting thermal testing underground to test the safety and efficacy of salt formations in containing radionuclides.
SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalVadose Zone Journal·DateApr 29, 2020
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new method for upcycling polyurethane foams, turning them into higher-value rubbers and hard plastics. This process removes air from the foam to create durable plastics or soft films, paving the way for recycling of polyurethane foam waste in various applications.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 29, 2020
Researchers have developed a hydrogel that can cool down electronic devices and convert waste heat into electricity, reducing overheating issues and increasing device efficiency. The new material, which is self-regenerating and safe for use, has shown promising results in cooling cell phone batteries during fast discharging.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 22, 2020
The Oregon State University-led research program will focus on the effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on human health, including cancer, neurological systems, and developmental disorders. Researchers will work with communities impacted by hazardous waste sites to better understand the risk posed by PAHs.
Researchers from the University of Córdoba have developed a methodology to assess restaurant food waste and select the best valorization path. The study identifies that food waste can be turned into various valuable products, including biodiesel, electricity, and bioplastic, which could help industries within the circular economy.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalBioresource Technology·DateApr 1, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
A study by Fraunhofer IVV, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, and University of Alicante found that separating packaging waste from household waste reduces off-odors in plastic recyclates. The researchers identified over 60 odor-causing substances and found that washing post-consumer LDPE shopping bags at 60 degrees reduced overall odors.
SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalWaste Management·DateMar 31, 2020
Researchers found that incineration and landfilling of municipal solid waste releases bacteria and antibiotic-resistance genes into the air, posing a risk to human health. The study suggests that these systems could be a reservoir of resistant genes, which can spread to nearby residents through airborne transmission.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 25, 2020
Research discovered that tobacco smoke off-gassing transports contaminants equivalent to several cigarettes of secondhand smoke into indoor areas. Thirdhand smoke includes residual chemicals left on surfaces and skin, presenting significant health risks to non-smokers.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 5, 2020
A new study from Yale University reveals that third-hand smoke can travel into indoor spaces through human contact, exposing non-smokers to hazardous chemicals. The research found that even in well-ventilated areas like movie theaters, people can carry and release third-hand smoke contaminants, posing health risks.
SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 4, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
Researchers have developed a method to use waste bread as a medium for cultivating microbial starters for the food industry, reducing food waste and its associated economic losses. The new protocol, known as WBM, is estimated to be cheaper than current production methods and has potential applications beyond fermented foods.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 28, 2020
A University of Vaasa researcher highlights the need for retailers to adopt creative solutions to reduce bread waste. By managing potential food waste, implementing marketing strategies, and engaging with staff, stores can minimize hazardous waste and meet the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
A team of Virginia Tech researchers has developed a new wearable analyzer to measure hazardous air pollutants in real-time for truck drivers and other workers. The device, called iWAVE, provides a time-resolved measurement of exposure and is expected to revolutionize the way workers combat harmful pollutants on a daily basis.
Increasing grocery store density in certain areas can drastically decrease food waste, with optimal balance found at moderate store numbers. Studies show that modest increases in store density lead to substantial reductions in waste and lower grocery expenses for households.
SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateFeb 12, 2020
A study published in PLOS ONE found that consumers may be wasting more than twice as much food as commonly believed, and that affluent consumers waste more food. The researchers used a human metabolism model to quantify the relationship between food waste and consumer affluence.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
According to new research from Cornell University, opening more grocery stores can significantly reduce global warming by lowering food waste. The study found that even small increases in store density can have a high impact on reducing waste, with benefits comparable to converting thousands of cars to electric power.
SourceCornell University·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateFeb 3, 2020
Researchers at Rice University have developed a 'flash graphene' process that can turn bulk quantities of waste material into valuable graphene flakes. The process is quick, cheap, and produces high-quality graphene with reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
New research from Ohio State University reveals that high-level nuclear waste storage materials will degrade faster than expected due to their interaction. The study found severe localized corrosion of glass, ceramics, and stainless steel under certain conditions, posing significant challenges for the current storage model.
SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 27, 2020
According to Penn State researchers, US households waste an estimated 31.9% of the food they acquire, with an aggregate value of $240 billion per year. This inefficiency has significant implications for health, food security, and climate change.
SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJan 23, 2020
A new study suggests that rural communities in Vermont are already managing their food waste effectively through composting and feeding scraps to pets or livestock. While support for banning food waste is high, only a minority of residents are willing to pay for curbside compost pickup programs.
SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateJan 21, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.