Fossil Fuels

Coal pollution is cutting solar power output, study finds

Post-pandemic cycling boom in major cities, as cyclist safety improved thanks to more and better cycling infrastructure

A new study reveals a post-pandemic cycling boom in major cities, with fatality rates dropping by up to 88% in Paris, 82% in London, and 62% in New York City. The improvement is attributed to the expansion and improvement of cycling infrastructure, including cycleways separated from motor vehicle traffic.

Arctic oil and gas exploitation significantly overlaps with Indigenous Peoples’ Lands, ecologically sensitive areas and key Arctic species’ ranges

A new atlas reveals significant overlaps between Arctic oil and gas development and Indigenous Peoples' Lands, ecologically sensitive areas, and key Arctic species. The study highlights potential ecological disruption and social tension in heavily-exploited regions.

SwRI supports novel industrial heat production system

The Joule Hive Thermal Battery system can generate and store heat up to 1,800 degrees Celsius using renewable energy sources like solar or wind. The system's thermal energy storage capabilities make it possible for industrial sites to rely on renewable energy sources flexibly.

Move finances to shift energy

A collaborative team of researchers from Kyoto University analyzed the net-zero transition in Southeast Asia, finding that a flexible grid paradigm allows vertically integrated utilities to accept natural gas as flexible energy. The study also highlights the need for synchronized changes in energy systems and financial systems to achie...

Can Europe be climate-neutral by 2050? New monitor tracks the pace of the energy transition

A new monitor tracks the energy transition in Hungary, finding that roughly half of companies increased their share of low-carbon electricity, while others continued to rely on fossil fuels. The study suggests that size, revenue spent on fossil fuels, and initial investments influence a company's willingness to switch to electrification.

As fossil fuel use declines, experts urge planning and coordination to prevent chaotic collapse

Researchers identify vulnerabilities in three major sectors: physical, financial, and managerial 'cliffs' that could trigger localized energy crises and price shocks. Policymakers are urged to adopt managed decline strategies to avoid disruption of services and stabilize the mid-transition period to zero carbon energy.

Energy-efficient reactor captures and recycles methane to produce clean hydrogen and carbon nanotubes

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed an energy-efficient reactor that captures and recycles methane to produce clean hydrogen and high-performance carbon nanotubes. The process uses a multi-pass floating catalyst chemical vapour deposition reactor with process gas recycling, significantly reducing energy requirements.

S-species-stimulated deep reconstruction of ultra-homogeneous CuS nanosheets for efficient HMF electrooxidation

Scientists create ultra-homogeneous CuS nanosheets supported on N-doped porous carbon, triggered by covalent S species, for efficient HMF electrooxidation. The optimized catalyst achieves a high current density of 335 mA cm^-2 at 1.5 V vs. RHE.

Research shows informed traders never let a good climate crisis go to waste

Researchers found that fossil fuel firms experience significant spikes in informed trading during COP meetings, with investors trading ahead of market. The study estimates that informed traders could have earned up to $25 billion across the COP meetings and 87 firms studied.

Fossil fuels speed up shifts in Europe’s winter rainfall

A new study reveals that the burning of fossil fuels is accelerating winter rainfall changes in Northern and central Europe, including the UK, by more than two decades. This finding significantly upsets climate model projections, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation planning and infrastructure investment.

Nearly 47 million Americans are at high risk of potential health hazards from fossil fuel infrastructure

A Boston University study finds nearly 14% of the US population lives within a mile of fossil fuel infrastructure, posing potential health risks. The research highlights inequities in exposure, with predominantly non-white groups and urbanites disproportionately affected.

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Prof. Weihong Yang explores innovative strategies to replace fossil-based materials with sustainable, bio-based graphite in lithium-ion batteries and other electrochemical systems. The webinar provides key insights into converting bioprecursors into fossil-free graphite.

World’s leading medical journal details the climate emergency

The Lancet Countdown report reveals that the world is facing unprecedented levels of health threats due to climate change, with millions of lives lost unnecessarily. The report calls for urgent action to limit future harm by prioritizing human health in policy decisions.

Electric vehicles outperform gasoline cars in lifetime environmental impact

A new study finds that electric vehicles outperform gasoline cars in lifetime environmental impact, with a reduction in cumulative CO2 emissions after two years of use. The transportation sector accounts for 28% of US greenhouse gas emissions and adopting electric vehicles can improve climate and air quality.

Fossil fuel companies control a mere 1% of renewable energy projects worldwide

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.

From palm waste to carbon catcher: Malaysian scientists turn agricultural leftovers into high-performance CO₂ spongeg

Researchers at Universiti Sains Malaysia create a new material capable of capturing carbon dioxide from the air using oil palm ash, achieving impressive adsorption capacity and stability. Machine learning predictions also enabled the design of a highly optimized mesoporous structure.

Electric space heating, appliances reduce US residential energy consumption

A study by Penn State researchers found that using electricity for space heating can significantly reduce on-site household energy consumption. The team also identified other factors, such as the use of electric water heaters and construction methods, that contribute to energy savings.

Solar fuel conundrum nears a solution

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.

Rising heat waves tied to fossil fuel and cement production

Research by ETH Zurich reveals human-induced climate change has increased extreme heat wave frequency and severity, with fossil fuel and cement production contributing significantly. The study highlights the responsibility of large carbon emitters, such as oil and gas companies, in exacerbating heat waves.

Equity implications of where long-term fossil fuel plants are located found to differ based on time period studied

Researchers found little evidence of disproportionate siting in Black counties, but a growing share of the Black population over time. Long-term demographic shifts after power plant openings led to higher Black population shares, with an average rise of 4% in 50-70 years.

Maternal exposure to crude oil, flame retardants can affect later generations

Research on killifish reveals that maternal exposure to toxic substances like crude oil and flame retardants can have lasting impacts on offspring and subsequent generations. Exposure to these chemicals during critical developmental windows can alter gene function, behavior, and health outcomes in humans and wildlife.

Clean energy is here. Getting it to EVs isn’t

A new Northwestern University study finds that even with renewable energy availability, switching to electric vehicles won't fight climate change without upgraded transmission grids. Targeted upgrades could alleviate congestion and unlock full emissions-reduction potential of EV adoption.

Respiratory related ER visits decreased 20 percent after coal-processing plant closure

A new study by NYU Langone Health researchers found that the shutdown of a significant fossil fuel pollution source near Pittsburgh, PA resulted in immediate improvements in respiratory health. Respiratory related emergency visits decreased by about 20% within weeks after the plant's closure.

Analysis documents changing trends in U.S. carbon emissions

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University analyze historical U.S. carbon emissions trends, identifying factors that contributed to changes and offering lessons for developing countries. The study suggests that investing in efficient technologies and avoiding overreliance on coal can help avoid pitfalls encountered by the United States.

Paper outlines more efficient organic photoredox catalysis system inspired by photosynthesis

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a more efficient light-based process for transforming fossil fuels into useful modern chemicals, effective even at room temperatures. The organic photoredox catalysis system uses visible light to alter chemical compounds, reducing energy demands and pollution in various industries.

New oil and gas fields incompatible with Paris climate goals

A new report by UCL academics finds that opening new North Sea oil and gas fields is incompatible with achieving the Paris Climate Agreement goals. The researchers recommend stopping all future licenses to explore and refusing development consent for already-licensed fields.

Predicting underwater landslides before they strike

Using site characterization data from multiple disciplines, researchers can now accurately predict the occurrence of marine landslides. The correct sequence of site investigations and integration of data is crucial for maximizing information and confidence in landslide models.

A new approach could fractionate crude oil using much less energy

A new membrane developed by MIT researchers separates different types of fuel based on their molecular size, eliminating the need for energy-intensive distillation. The membrane can efficiently separate heavy and light components from oil, and is resistant to swelling.

Researchers develop practical solution to reduce emissions and improve air quality from brick manufacturing in Bangladesh

A new study found that brick kiln owners in Bangladesh are willing to implement energy-efficient operational changes after receiving training and support. The changes led to a 23% reduction in energy use and substantial savings in coal expenditures.

Greasing the wheels of the energy transition to address climate change and fossil fuels phase out

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.

Study lays out scientific path to recouping the costs of climate change

A new study by Dartmouth researchers lays out a scientific framework for tracing specific climate damages back to emissions from individual fossil fuel companies. The framework combines climate modeling with publicly available emissions data to provide robust emissions-based attributions of climate damages at the corporate scale.

Chinese researchers boost efficiency of direct methanol fuel cell catalysts

Researchers developed a new ultrafine platinum-based high-entropy alloy octahedra catalyst that enhances methanol oxidation reaction activity and durability. The senary alloy outperformed ternary alloys and commercial platinum-on-carbon catalysts in terms of performance, offering a promising advance for direct methanol fuel cells.

Study: Burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers is the best available option for bulk maritime shipping

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.

Surrey’s carbon capture technology could help the UK rival global competitors in race to produce clean fuel from air

Researchers at the University of Surrey developed a cost-effective method for removing CO2 from the air and converting it into synthetic fuel. The Dual-Function Material (DFM) process has been shown to be financially competitive with established industry methods, offering a promising route to decarbonize industries.

Study documents impacts of large-scale entry of rooftop solar panels on competition

A dynamic framework to measure market power in wholesale electricity markets has been developed by researchers, accounting for start-up costs and other unit-level operating constraints. The study found that rooftop solar penetration increases led to sizable boosts in fossil fuel plant profitability, as competition softened at sunset.

Household electricity three times more expensive than upcoming ‘eco-friendly’ aviation e-fuels, study reveals

A new study published in Climate Policy highlights the significant cost disparity between household electricity and e-fuel for long-distance mobility. The research shows that the wealthiest 1% of EU citizens are responsible for 66% of air travel, while the majority emit less than 0.1 ton of CO2 equivalent emissions per year.

How industrial waste gases could replace fossil fuels in everyday consumer products

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.

Study finds cities that conducted greenhouse gas emissions inventories moved needle toward reduction

New research from the University of Kansas found that completing a greenhouse gas emission inventory indeed moves the needle toward mitigation, with cities reducing their CO2 emissions by about 22 fewer pounds per capita. The addition of sustainability staff did not show a statistically significant reduction.

Time to count plastics in climate action and counter Trump effect

Countries are urged to update their National Determined Contribution plans to address plastic waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The team suggests specific goals, such as cutting plastic production and incentivizing sustainable manufacturing.

LA’s urban trees absorb more carbon than expected, USC Dornsife study finds

A new study from USC Dornsife finds that LA's urban greenery absorbs up to 60% of daytime fossil fuel CO2 emissions in spring and summer, providing valuable insights into the impact of trees on air quality. The research provides data-driven insights for future planting efforts and informs the USC Urban Trees Initiative.

Solar-powered device captures carbon dioxide from air to make sustainable fuel

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.

Coal emissions cost India millions in crop damages

A new study by Stanford University researchers found that coal-fired power stations drag down annual wheat and rice yields by 10% or more due to NO2 emissions. Eliminating these emissions could boost rice output by $420 million per year and wheat output by $400 million per year.

Tiny copper ‘flowers’ bloom on artificial leaves for clean fuel production

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 ...

Chemical looping turns environmental waste into fuel

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.

New Oxford report: Carbon capture and storage without taxpayer billions is possible

A new Oxford report suggests that a carbon storage mandate on fossil fuel producers could help the UK meet its climate targets while protecting public finances. The policy scenario explores requiring suppliers to permanently store rising percentages of their CO2 emissions.

Anti-climate action groups tend to arise in countries with stronger climate change efforts

A new study suggests that counter climate change organizations are more likely to arise in countries with stronger environmental policies and institutions. These groups often have eclectic views not directly tied to economic or political interests, and are increasingly global in scope.

Biodegradable nylon precursor produced through artificial photosynthesis

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have synthesized a biodegradable nylon precursor through artificial photosynthesis, producing an eco-friendly alternative plastic. The breakthrough utilizes L-alanine and ammonia to create raw materials for a nylon-type biodegradable plastic.

Fossil fuels help us grow food. That’s good for food production but bad for the planet.

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.

Recycling human, animal excreta reduces need for fertilizers

A global analysis suggests that recycling human and livestock excreta can contribute substantially to meeting the nutrient supply for all crops worldwide. Recycling these nutrients could reduce global net imports of mineral fertilizers by 41% for nitrogen, 3% for phosphorus, and 36% for potassium.

Oil spill still contaminating sensitive Mauritius mangroves three years on

Researchers confirm oil presence in Mauritius mangrove forest close to Ramsar conservation sites, three years after MV Wakashio spill. The oil has undergone weathering and biodegradation, but its ongoing presence poses an unknown risk to the sensitive ecosystem.

Redefining net zero will not stop global warming – scientists say

A new study by the University of Oxford's Department of Physics shows that relying on natural carbon sinks to offset CO2 emissions from fossil fuels will not stop global warming. Governments and corporations are increasingly turning to these natural sinks to meet climate goals, but this approach is flawed.

Fighting microplastics for a cleaner future

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to break down condensation polymers in plastics using solvents and liquid organic hydrogen carriers, producing aromatic compounds that can be used as fuels. This breakthrough has potential implications for the sustainability of the chemical industry and reducing global warming.

Windfall profits from oil and gas could cover climate payments

Researchers found that windfall profits from oil and gas companies in 2022 would be enough to cover climate payments for nearly five years. Governments can redistribute these excess profits to fight the climate crisis, with a tax on windfall profits being a proposed solution.

Transition to a circular bioeconomy requires getting prices right

A circular bioeconomy aims to reduce waste, transform industries, and regenerate natural systems for environmentally sustainable food and energy production. The concept needs a values-based economic lens with the right policies and incentives to persuade consumers and producers.

Support for meat rationing to protect climate

A new study from Uppsala University found that nearly 40% of the public support rationing of goods like meat and fuel to reduce their climate impact. The study, which surveyed over 9,000 people in five countries, also showed that acceptability of rationing is on par with taxes for emissions-intensive food.

New continuous reaction process can help turn plant waste into sustainable aviation fuel

Washington State University scientists developed a continuous reaction process to produce lignin-based jet fuel from agricultural waste, reducing carbon footprint and emissions. The new technology has the potential to replace fossil fuel-derived compounds and make sustainable fuels fully "drop-in" capable.

Major boost in carbon capture and storage essential to reach 2°C climate target

A new study finds that carbon capture and storage technology will struggle to meet the 1.5°C and 2°C climate targets without significant expansion. The technology can sequester up to 600 Gt of CO2 over the 21st century, but current plans may not be enough to bridge the gap.

Ice cores show pollution's impact on Arctic atmosphere

A Dartmouth-led study found that air pollution from fossil fuels reaches the remote Arctic, altering its fundamental atmospheric chemistry. The researchers detected declines in methanesulfonic acid, a biomarker linked to phytoplankton productivity, which plummeted in environments high in emissions.

Unhealthy commodities—like alcohol and social media—are connected with poor mental health

A study published in PLOS Global Public Health found associations between depression and unhealthy commodities such as alcohol, tobacco, gambling, social media, ultra-processed foods, and air pollution. The review also highlighted links between these commodities and suicide, self-harm, and anxiety.