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UK substantially underestimates its methane emissions from oil and gas production – and many other countries probably do too

A recent study reveals that the UK severely underestimates its greenhouse gas emissions from offshore oil and gas production by as much as five times. The researchers suggest alternative methods for calculating methane emissions, which could also apply to other countries.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJan 26, 2023
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.

Research into the chemistry of environmentally friendly power generation at the ELTE Eötvös Loránd University

The researchers investigated the ignition of methane-air mixtures using a detailed reaction kinetics model. They identified five domains with different sets of chemical reactions leading to methane ignition. This knowledge can help increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact in heating and power generation.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalProceedings of the Combustion Institute·DateDec 16, 2022

Novel waste treatment efficiently converts sewage to biogas

A new pretreatment technology has been developed that can convert more than 85% of organic material in sewage sludge to biogas, producing 98% more methane than current practice. This efficient process could help communities lower their waste treatment costs while promoting the circular economy.

SourceWashington State University·JournalWaste Management·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2022

Study reveals soil moisture plays the biggest role in underground spread of natural gas leaking from pipelines

A new study has found that soil moisture content is the main factor controlling how far and at what concentration natural gas spreads from a leaked pipeline underground. The research team looked at over 300 soil samples and found that methane gas leaking from a pipeline does not spread as far when the soil moisture content increases.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalElementa Science of the Anthropocene·TypeObservational study·DateOct 25, 2022
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.

Europe can rapidly eliminate imports of Russian natural gas

A team of researchers developed a power sector model to analyze pathways to full independence from Russian natural gas imports. The study found that Europe can eliminate reliance on Russian gas by augmenting REPowerEU plans with temporary boosts in coal and recalibrated gas storage.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJoule·DateOct 5, 2022

Cutting coal has huge health benefits – but environmental justice issues remain

A new study found that decarbonization efforts in Texas significantly reduce air pollution-related health effects, offsetting the cost of these efforts. However, Black and low-income communities still face higher levels of air pollution and related health effects.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 13, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Brazilian scientists reveal method of converting methane gas into liquid methanol

Researchers have developed a method to convert methane into methanol under ambient conditions, reducing carbon dioxide emissions and paving the way for alternative fuels. The process uses photocatalysts and has potential to mitigate climate change by utilizing methane reserves.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemical Communications·DateAug 2, 2022

Listening to the people results in a more sustainable future energy system

A new energy plan developed by researchers at Kyushu University suggests a more sustainable future energy system that includes 61% renewable-based electricity. The plan, which prioritizes solar and wind power, exceeds current projections by 50%, with significant reductions in coal-based generation and nuclear power.

SourceKyushu University·JournalEnergy Economics·TypeSurvey·DateJul 29, 2022

Why natural gas is not a bridge technology

The study highlights the risks of natural gas infrastructure expansion, including underestimated methane emissions and economic climate risks. The researchers propose five measures to avoid these risks, including a timely and consistent natural gas exit.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 5, 2022
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.

Found: The ‘holy grail of catalysis’ — turning methane into methanol under ambient conditions using light

Researchers have developed a novel process converting methane into liquid methanol at ambient temperature and pressure using visible light. The method uses a continuous flow of methane/oxygen-saturated water over a novel metal-organic framework (MOF) catalyst, achieving 100% selectivity with no by-products.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Natural gas used in homes contains hazardous air pollutants shows Boston-area study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

A new Boston-area study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health reveals that natural gas used in homes contains varying levels of volatile organic chemicals. The research found that even small amounts of hazardous air pollutants could impact indoor air quality and degrade outdoor air quality when gas leaks occur.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 28, 2022

Shaping the future of purification

King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) researchers have created a new membrane material that separates nitrogen from methane based on their shape difference. This approach reduces purification costs for natural gas by up to 73% compared to existing methods, offering an energy-efficient solution.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature·DateJun 22, 2022

Biogas and biomethane supply chains leak twice as much methane as first thought

A new Imperial analysis found that biogas and biomethane supply chains release more than twice as much methane as previously estimated, with 62% of leaks concentrated in a few 'super-emitters'. The researchers call for better monitoring and fixing of leaks to ensure the continued use of these climate-friendly gases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 17, 2022
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.

Ukraine War’s supply chain impacts bust myth of US energy independence

Research by Duke University shows the US is still indirectly buying Russian crude through highly globalized supply chains. The analysis highlights three ways to mitigate exposure: Buy American, Made in America, and secure supply chains through renewable energy investments.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Energy·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 13, 2022

New method offers a promising alternative for upgrading natural gas

Researchers have developed a copper-based metal-organic framework (Cu-MOF) to separate propane and ethane from methane, offering a promising alternative to traditional cryogenic distillation. The Cu-MOF exhibits high adsorption capacity and selectivity for C2-C3 hydrocarbons.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2022

Designing the perfect membrane for clean separation

Researchers at KAUST have developed a new class of oriented mixed-matrix metal-organic framework (MMMOF) membrane that selectively removes detrimental gases like H2S and CO2 from natural gas. The membrane demonstrates far better separation efficiency compared to conventional methods.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2022

A model of improved safety for LNG storage

Researchers have developed a rigorous computer simulation technique to optimize LNG tank design, reducing construction costs while improving safety against catastrophic failures. The new model can be used to mitigate environmental and economic consequences of failure, enabling Australia to store more energy at the right time.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalBulletin of Earthquake Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 2, 2022
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.

CSU study finds disparities in natural gas leak prevalence in U.S. urban areas

A Colorado State University-led study found greater natural gas leak densities in communities with low-income or majority non-white populations compared to predominantly white neighborhoods. The research highlights the need for improved equity in gas distribution systems to enhance health and safety outcomes.

SourceColorado State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2022

Oregonians perceive greater risk than benefit from natural gas export in state, OSU study finds

A recent study from Oregon State University found that Oregonians are more likely to perceive environmental and public health risks than potential financial gains from natural gas export. The study surveyed 500 adults and found that those with higher education, younger adults, women, people of color, and liberal or moderate political v...

SourceOregon State University·JournalLocal Environment·TypeSurvey·DateApr 7, 2022

Story tips: Clean water bots, self-sanitizing N95 masks and cooking with hydrogen

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed AquaBOT to measure water quality in mid-sized streams with precision and speed. The lab has also created a safe and effective antiviral coating for N95 masks, allowing for reuse of masks made from various fabrics. Furthermore, the lab has designed a cooking appliance that uses...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS ES&T Water·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Stanford-led study: Methane leaks are far worse than estimates, at least in New Mexico, but there’s hope

A Stanford-led study found that methane leaks in the Permian Basin of New Mexico are several times greater than federal estimates, with over 9% of production being leaked. The researchers used airborne sensors to detect leaks and identified super-emitters responsible for the majority of emissions.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2022

Wind, solar could replace coal power in Texas

A new study by Rice University engineers suggests that wind and solar projects could eliminate the need for coal in Texas, drastically reducing pollution. The research uses optimization modeling to identify the least-cost combinations of proposed wind and solar projects that can replace coal-fired power generation.

SourceRice University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 21, 2022

Natural gas flares likely source of respiratory illness spike

Researchers at Washington State University found a causal link between natural gas flaring and increased hospital visits for respiratory health in North Dakota. The study estimated that a 1% increase in flared natural gas increases the hospitalization rate by 0.73%, highlighting the significant impact of flaring on human health.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Public Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 8, 2022

Gas flares tied to premature deaths

A Rice University-led study finds that gas flaring from oil and gas fields in the US contributed to dozens of premature deaths in 2019 due to black carbon particle emissions. The researchers estimated that 26-53 deaths were directly attributable to air quality associated with flares.

SourceRice University·JournalAtmosphere·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 25, 2022

London produces up to a third more methane than estimates suggest

A new study by Imperial College London reveals that London is releasing more methane than previously thought, primarily due to natural gas infrastructure leaks. The findings suggest that upgrading leaky pipes could significantly reduce emissions. This research highlights the importance of atmospheric measurements in tracking progress t...

SourceImperial College London·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022
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.

Rethinking how to measure methane’s climate impact

A new Stanford University study reveals that using a 100-year timeframe underestimates methane's importance in achieving Paris Agreement climate goals by up to 87%. The researchers propose using a 24-year timeframe instead, which would ensure emissions of methane are weighted correctly over the time period before temperature thresholds...

SourceStanford Woods Institute for the Environment·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New neutron-based method helps keep underwater pipelines open

Researchers at Technical University of Munich have developed a new neutron-based method to detect clogs in underwater pipelines non-destructively. This approach uses prompt gamma neutron activation analysis to measure hydrogen concentration, allowing for the detection of blockages and hydrate formation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNondestructive Testing And Evaluation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 21, 2022

Thaw of permafrost has vast impact on built environment

A recent review highlights the devastating impact of permafrost thaw on infrastructure in the Arctic region, with damages ranging from less than 10% to as high as 80%. The region's transport and pipeline networks are particularly vulnerable, with costs projected to exceed 30 billion euros by 2060.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 12, 2022

New catalytic approach directly converts raw biomass into natural gas with low carbon footprint

A new catalytic approach directly converts solid biomass into natural gas with a low carbon footprint, achieving nearly complete conversion of various agricultural and forestry materials. This process reduces fossil energy depletion and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 26% and 34%, respectively.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 11, 2022

New smart-roof coating enables year-round energy savings

Scientists developed an all-season smart-roof coating that automatically switches between cooling and heating, outperforming commercial cool-roof systems in energy savings. The technology uses vanadium dioxide to regulate its rate of radiative cooling, overcoming the problem of overcooling in winter.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Explanation for unusual isotope patterns

MARUM researchers simulate alternative hydrocarbon formation through reduction of acetic acid, proposing a new explanation for unusual isotope patterns. The findings provide insight into the rapid thermal alteration of sedimentary organic matter and its role in the global carbon cycle.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 2021

Urban areas across the US are undercounting greenhouse gas emissions

A new study reveals that methane emissions from US cities are 2-10 times higher than recent estimates, with Boston's emissions being six times higher due to pipeline and end-use emitters. The research found that seasonal consumption-based emissions account for 56% of total natural gas emissions in Boston.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 25, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Catalyst advance improves natural gas cleaning technology

Researchers developed a new catalyst with unique atomic-sized rafts that improve the cleaning of emissions from natural gas engines. The catalyst enhances energy efficiency and reduces unburnt methane emissions, making natural gas-powered technology cleaner and more viable.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

Residential proximity to oil and gas drilling linked to lower birthweights in newborns

A new study from Oregon State University found that infants born within 3 kilometers of oil and natural gas drilling facilities in Texas had slightly lower birthweights than those born before drilling began. After accounting for other potential factors, the study found a significant association between living near an active drilling si...

SourceOregon State University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJul 21, 2021

Cold weather cost New England electric customers nearly $1.8 billion in one month; A new study suggests ways to mitigate fuel shortages

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers suggests that storing both oil and gas on-site at power plants can reduce dependence on gas grids and mitigate fuel shortages. This could reduce costs for electric customers in New England, where gas supply constraints have led to frequent power plant outages.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Electricity Journal·DateJun 23, 2021
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.

After the big storm: How to supply emergency power

A new study suggests that cooperative strategies for providing emergency power during long-duration outages can cost up to 40 times less than individual generators. The analysis focused on two hypothetical communities in New Hampshire and found that shared generator costs were significantly lower, making collective options more accessi...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateJun 17, 2021

Natural gas pipeline density higher overall in more vulnerable US counties

A study by North Carolina State University researchers found that US counties with more socially vulnerable populations have a higher density of natural gas pipelines, putting them at risk for water and air pollution, public health and safety issues. The analysis used a social vulnerability index to assess 3,142 US counties and found a...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGeoHealth·DateMay 28, 2021

Oil and natural gas production emit more methane than previously thought

A new study found that oil production emits 90% higher methane than the EPA's estimated figures, while natural gas production emissions are 50% higher. The research team developed a method to trace and map total emissions using satellite data to identify areas with discrepancies.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateMar 26, 2021

New method converts methane in natural gas to methanol at room temperature

Researchers have discovered a way to convert methane in natural gas into liquid methanol at room temperature using a catalyst material and electricity. This process reduces the need for high heat and pressure, making it a more efficient and affordable method for producing methanol.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

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.

UTA research to provide real-time data on gas leaks

Kathleen Smits' innovative approach links environmental data with gas concentration readings to understand leak severity and migration. The research aims to examine reoccurrence of leaks, urbanization effects, and repaired leaks that continue to vent, providing critical insights for industry and regulators.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 5, 2020

Making more of methane

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have developed a new method to directly convert methane into commercial products, bypassing multiple energy-intensive stages. The breakthrough uses a molybdenum-zeolite catalyst and identifies two potential activation pathways for carbon-hydrogen bonding.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 2, 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.

Sweet or sour natural gas

Researchers developed tailored polyimide membranes to efficiently separate H2S and CO2 from sour gas. By adjusting the ratio of building blocks, they achieved balanced separation efficiency for both gases.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 23, 2020

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions using microwave plasma technology

Researchers at Penn State are developing microwave plasma technology to produce hydrogen and graphene from natural gas, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The technology enables rapid heating of gas and can be powered by renewable electricity, making it a promising solution for the hydrogen economy.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 29, 2020

New ethane-munching microbes discovered at hot vents

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology have discovered a new microbe, Ethanoperedens thermophilum, that eats ethane and grows faster than previously known microbes. The discovery sheds light on the mechanism of ethane degradation and its potential for biotechnological applications.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateApr 21, 2020
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.

Using fiber optics to advance safe and renewable energy

Researchers at Berkeley Lab are developing fiber optic sensors to monitor offshore wind operations and underground natural gas storage. These sensors aim to detect issues such as gearbox failure and marine mammal activity, improving the reliability and safety of these systems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateMar 30, 2020

Shutdown of coal-fired plants in US saves lives and improves crop yields

A new study found that shutting down coal-fired plants in the US reduces nearby pollution, saving an estimated 26,610 lives between 2005 and 2016. The transition from coal to natural gas also improves crop yields, with a loss of 10.2 billion bushels of crops avoided.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 6, 2020

The uncertain role of natural gas in the transition to clean energy

A new MIT study examines the opposing roles of natural gas in the battle against climate change, as a bridge toward a lower-emissions future and a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. To meet greenhouse gas reduction targets over the coming decade, present methods of controlling methane leakage would have to improve by 30-90 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 16, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Global carbon emissions growth slows, but hits record high

Global fossil-fuel carbon dioxide emissions reached a record high in 2023, driven by increasing natural gas and oil consumption. Despite slower emissions growth, researchers warn that emissions could increase unless national energy policies change dramatically.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 3, 2019