Researchers found that streams near farms are a significant source of nitrous oxide emissions, with some areas emitting up to half of the total emissions in the region. The study suggests that targeting mitigation efforts on streams and rivers connected to agricultural soils can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 3, 2024
A new nitrification inhibitor, copper pyrazole, has been developed to slow down the nitrification and denitrification processes in nitrogen transformation. The study found that copper pyrazole reduces urease activity and lowers the levels of key genes involved in nitrogen cycling.
SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateNov 25, 2024
A new study by Iowa State University researchers finds that nearly half of soybean-related emissions come from the natural processes in soil, which can be mitigated through strategies like planting winter cover crops and adjusting planting schedules. These solutions have been found to reduce emissions by one-third while increasing yields.
SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2024
Researchers have found that blocking the protein StCDF1 in potatoes can improve plant performance in low-nitrogen environments. This could be a promising strategy for reducing potato needs of nitrogen fertilizers.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Scientists have identified a crucial gene, StCDF1, that regulates both tuberization and nitrogen assimilation in potatoes. The discovery offers new insights into enhancing nitrogen utilization, allowing for breeding of climate-smart potato varieties less dependent on chemical fertilizers.
SourceCenter for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2024
A new type of biochar pellet has been developed to remove phosphorus from farm drainage water, reducing pollution and costs. The pellets have a significantly higher phosphorus-binding capacity than traditional materials, making them an efficient solution for farmers seeking to reduce nutrient losses.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWater Research·DateNov 4, 2024
Plant roots use a silent molecular 'language' to direct fungi to attach, providing phosphates. Researchers discovered that strigolactone activates fungal genes associated with phosphate metabolism, leading to new strategies for cultivating hardier crops and combatting disease-causing fungi.
SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2024
Brazilian researchers are transforming Agave sisalana into a sustainable bioenergy source for the semi-arid climate region, requiring less water and fertilizer than sugarcane. The team has developed genetically modified yeasts to metabolize inulin and biostimulants to accelerate agave growth.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateOct 15, 2024
Researchers at the University of Würzburg discovered that plants use an energy-saving mechanism to adapt their potassium uptake based on soil conditions. By building a pH gradient across cell membranes, plants can transport potassium into cells without expending energy.
SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2024
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.
The LANDFEED project aims to develop advanced nutrient recovery technologies and innovative coatings for bio-based fertilisers to improve nutrient release and efficiency. This will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lessen environmental impact on water resources, and contribute to improved soil health and sustainable agriculture.
SourceEuropean Science Communication Institute gGmbH·DateOct 9, 2024
Researchers found that new wheat cultivars achieve 16% higher yields under current climate conditions, but overall nitrogen needs will increase with global warming. The team recommends a systemic approach to food security, combining agricultural science, environmental aspects, and policy makers.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Plants·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 27, 2024
Researchers found that nitrogen applications had a limited impact on soybean yields, with no consistent benefit from single applications. However, a single application at planting showed increased yields in certain conditions, particularly in soils with low organic matter.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 24, 2024
Researchers found that stored human urine had little impact on soil bacterial communities, increasing nitrifying and denitrifying groups compared to synthetic fertilizers. The study suggests that recycled urine could enhance agricultural sustainability, reduce wastewater pollution, and decrease reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalApplied Soil Ecology·DateSep 23, 2024
Researchers at RMIT University have developed a low-carbon approach to producing ammonia, which is used in fertilizers and as a carrier for hydrogen. The new method uses liquid metal catalysts, reducing energy consumption by 20% and carbon emissions by 98%. This could significantly reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and sup...
SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2024
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.
A recent study from the University of Illinois provides new insights into the sources and processes affecting nitrogen load in tile drainage water. The research team found a large legacy pool of nitrate in the soil, resulting in a time lag between when nitrogen is added to the system and when it is exported as nitrate in tile drainage.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 12, 2024
Researchers found that nitrogen emissions from human activities cool the climate by minus 0.34 watts per square metre, but also cause harm to health, biodiversity, and the ozone layer. The study warns against increasing atmospheric nitrogen as a means of combating global warming.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 25, 2024
Researchers discovered a new mechanism by which iron oxide minerals recycle phosphorus from DNA and RNA molecules, transforming them into bioavailable inorganic forms. This finding uncovers a missing piece of Earth's puzzling phosphorus cycle, highlighting the importance of understanding natural phosphorus recycling mechanisms.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024
A research team at Ruhr University Bochum has developed a catalyst that can convert ammonia into hydrogen and nitrite, producing both a clean energy carrier and a fertilizer precursor simultaneously. The process doubles the hydrogen yield while minimizing nitrogen production.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 15, 2024
Researchers discovered that nodulation evolved in a two-step process, with the basic genetic toolkit developed first and then refined through multiple genetic mutations. This complex circuit breaker-like mechanism suggests that nodulation is not controlled by a single switch.
SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2024
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.
A new study suggests that using special fertilizers and crushed basalt rocks can reduce agricultural nitrous oxide emissions without harming the ozone layer. The research found a 25% reduction in N2O emissions, aligning with efforts to reach net-zero emissions while supporting increased food production.
SourceUniversity of Sheffield·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateJul 10, 2024
Researchers found that combining aquaponic wastewaters with hydrothermal liquefaction aqueous phase (HTL-AP) solutions up to 8% can support plant growth without inhibiting germination. This alternative nutrient source has the potential to increase circularity in food production systems and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgriculture·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2024
Researchers discovered zinc's crucial role in nitrogen fixation of legumes, optimizing crop efficiency and reducing synthetic fertilizer reliance. This finding could enhance nitrogen delivery, improve yields, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2024
A new genetic regulator, known as Fixation Under Nitrate (FUN), has been identified in legume plants that reduces their ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable nutrients. Removing the FUN gene allows legumes to fix nitrogen regardless of soil nitrate levels.
SourceLa Trobe University·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 26, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers identifies 92 compounds in biosolids that could pose potential risks to human health and the environment. The team screened 16 samples of biosolids from US and Canadian cities and found a range of contaminants, including pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals.
SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 25, 2024
A new study by RIKEN CSRS shows that biomass from purple photosynthetic marine bacterium Rhodovulum sulfidophilum is an excellent nitrogen fertilizer, effective as inorganic synthetic fertilizers but with lower environmental side effects. The biomass boosts plant growth without altering soil pH or salinity.
SourceRIKEN·Journalnpj Sustainable Agriculture·DateJun 21, 2024
A study found that smallholder farmers in Tanzania used more fertilizer and had higher crop yields after an intervention, but the benefits did not last. The researchers attribute the lack of long-term adoption to liquidity constraints and structural factors such as fertilizer availability.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEconomic Development and Cultural Change·TypeObservational study·DateJun 18, 2024
Human-caused nitrous oxide emissions accelerated globally, reaching a record high in 2022, with the agricultural sector accounting for 74% of emissions. The use of chemical fertilizers and animal manure is particularly significant contributors to this growth.
SourceBoston College·JournalEarth System Science Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 11, 2024
Researchers highlight strategies for improving agriculture with nanotechnology, including targeted delivery of pesticides and herbicides, and digital twin simulations. These approaches aim to reduce environmental pollution and increase crop resilience.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 6, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A new tool identifies toxic metals in mineral phosphate fertilizers worldwide, with higher levels found in US and Middle East fertilizers compared to China and India. Researchers use strontium isotopes to detect fertilizer impacts on soil and water resources.
SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMay 17, 2024
Shifting excess nitrogen from rich countries to poor ones could increase crop production by 12%, with moderate/food insecure regions seeing significant gains in both fertilizer use and food output. Current levels of production could be maintained with only 53-68% of current nitrogen used through redistribution.
A new accounting method evaluates the impact of agricultural practices on nitrous oxide emissions, finding long-term no-till management and specific fertilizer types can effectively cut emissions. The study provides a more accurate estimate of N2O emissions than previous methods, enabling policymakers to make informed recommendations.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateMay 2, 2024
Researchers have discovered a greener way to produce ammonia, essential for fertilizers, by developing a new catalyst that works stably at relatively low temperatures. This breakthrough reduces the amount of energy needed to synthesize ammonia, making it an attractive alternative to fossil fuels.
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
A study published in Nature Food reveals that optimized phosphorus use can extend its stock for up to 531 years, reducing the demand by 3,000 kt annually. Currently, around 30-40% of farm soils have over-applications, mainly due to European and North American countries.
SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Food·DateMar 25, 2024
The study reveals that certain dyes can release more radicals than others, leading to increased energy efficiency and speed in photochemical reactions. By slowing down a reverse reaction, radicals are given more time to leave a solvent cage, resulting in up to ten times higher energy efficiency.
SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 18, 2024
A new disinfection technology uses low-temperature plasma to sterilize nutrient solutions in hydroponic farming, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This innovation promotes environmentally friendly crop cultivation and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceNagoya University·JournalEnvironmental Technology & Innovation·DateFeb 26, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A new study found that potassium deficiency is a significant threat to global food security, affecting 20% of agricultural soils worldwide. The researchers recommend six policies and practices to mitigate the issue, including better management of soil potassium and intergovernmental coordination.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Food·DateFeb 19, 2024
Legume plants have a unique ability to interact with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, allowing them to thrive without external nitrogen. Researchers identified four essential phosphorylation sites on the SYMRK kinase that mediate this symbiotic relationship.
SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024
Dust storms enhance phytoplankton tolerance to thermal and pH changes, facilitating algae growth in mountain lakes. This experimental study highlights the impact of atmospheric dust on aquatic ecosystems.
SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024
Researchers created an AI-enabled model to help mitigate global ammonia emissions from agriculture. By optimizing fertilizer management, the model can effectively reduce emissions by up to 38%, with Asia having the highest potential for reduction.
SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2024
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.
A study by researchers at the University of Sydney and Stockholm University found that centralized social networks can lead to a culture of homogeneity, where innovative voices are crowded out and traditionalist practices prevail. This can have significant consequences for the environment and global food security.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPeople and Nature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 24, 2024
Researchers found that microplastic particles are picked up by wind more easily than soil minerals, leading to underestimation of emissions. The study highlights an underappreciated way microplastics become airborne, affecting the environment and human health.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJan 17, 2024
Researchers at Stockholm University have successfully studied the surface of iron and ruthenium catalysts during ammonia production, shedding light on the reaction mechanism. The findings open up possibilities for developing more efficient materials, which could contribute to a green transition in the chemical industry.
SourceStockholm University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024
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.
Researchers at UW-Madison have developed a new electrochemical method to extract ammonia and potassium from livestock manure, reducing pollution and producing valuable fertilizers. The technique shows promise in scaling up beyond proof-of-concept stage.
SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023
A laboratory test shows that silicon application stimulates olive plant growth and increases nutrient absorption, particularly potassium. Plants treated with silicon grew longer stems and more branches than those without the element.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalScientia Horticulturae·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023
Researchers have found that struvite, a recycled phosphorus fertilizer, can reduce nutrient leaching and maintain soybean yields compared to conventional fertilizers. The study showed that struvite can be a full substitute for traditional fertilizers in terms of yield benefits.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateNov 27, 2023
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 have identified two genes, GmMOT1.1 and GmMOT1.2, that control natural variation in molybdate uptake and transport in soybeans. These genes are involved in molybdenum uptake in the roots and root-to-shoot transport of molybdenum, leading to improved molybdenum utilization and soybean yield.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 23, 2023
Researchers developed a metal-organic coating that protects bacterial cells from damage without impeding their growth or function. The coated bacteria improved the germination rate of various seeds by 150 percent, making it possible to deploy microbes as fertilizers for large-scale agricultural use.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 15, 2023
A new analysis by Aalto University reveals that industrial agriculture is highly sensitive to shocks in agricultural inputs such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The study models the impacts of these shocks on crop yields and food availability globally, identifying high-risk areas for the greatest yield losses.
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
Researchers have found that water temperatures between 20-25 degrees Celsius are at the greatest risk for developing dangerous levels of microcystin, a common algae-produced toxin. Climate change is expected to increase blue-green algae populations, posing serious health hazards and economic risks.
SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Water·DateOct 23, 2023
Researchers found that adding a social cost to carbon emissions leads to a significant reduction in fertilizer runoff, resulting in improved water quality and a decrease in the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone. The study suggests that implementing a carbon price can help meet the US commitment to the Paris Accord while improving water quality.
SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2023
Research in Baltimore metropolitan area finds nitrogen-rich fertilizers on lawns contribute to algal blooms and deoxygenated waters. Many homeowners are unaware of the negative impact of their lawn care practices on local ecosystems.
A new study by the University of Göttingen reveals that oil palms' photosynthesis and response to meteorological and soil conditions play a significant role in N2O production. The research suggests that conventional measurement approaches can underestimate emissions by up to 49%.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalGCB Bioenergy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Engineering associations between plants and nitrogen-fixing microbes using genetic engineering could lessen dependence on synthetic fertilizer. This approach involves bi-directional signaling to release fixed nitrogen, promoting efficient communication between engineered plants and microbes.
SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 26, 2023
Researchers developed a new catalyst using bismuth selenide, a topological insulator, to synthesize organoureas at room temperature with almost 100% yield. The catalyst's unique properties allow for stable surface states and recyclability.
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023
A new Danish study measured nitrous oxide emissions from fertilizer materials in spring barley, finding that commercial fertilizers emit less N2O than previously assumed. Organic fertilizers, including livestock manure and digestates, emitted more N2O on average.
SourceAarhus University·JournalAgriculture Ecosystems & Environment·DateSep 1, 2023
A new Stanford-led study shows that adding zinc to farmland soil can help prevent childhood stunting, a condition due to chronic undernutrition that is associated with poor brain development and long-lasting harmful consequences. The researchers found that the presence of zinc in soil helps prevent stunted childhood growth.
SourceStanford Woods Institute for the Environment·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 30, 2023
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.
Researchers from Iowa State University and Wichita State University are developing a green fertilizer system that captures waste nitrogen and carbon dioxide to produce a fertilizer reducing nitrous oxide emissions. The project aims to promote sustainable farming practices in the Midwest region.
New research suggests that rising temperatures may offset the impact of increased precipitation on nitrogen runoff, which could lead to reduced aquatic pollution. The study found that warmer temperatures reduce evaporation, allowing more nitrogen to enter waterways, while also affecting microbial life in soil and sediment.
SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023
Researchers developed a smart agrochemical delivery platform using biomimetic mineralization, which improves crop yield and fruit zinc content. The platform, named MiZIFs, uses zeolitic imidazolate frameworks to encapsulate a synthetic growth regulator, promoting plant growth and stress tolerance.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 30, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A study published in Environmental Chemistry found that over a third of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer use is breaking UK government emissions thresholds. Uninhibited urea fertilizers are the worst offenders, emitting up to 77% of applied nitrogen into the air.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEnvironmental Chemistry·DateJul 20, 2023