Articles tagged with Recycling
The University of Texas at Arlington has developed a modular, multi-step water treatment system that can transform unconventional oil and gas waste into reusable water. The system requires multiple treatment modalities to remove contaminants, making it difficult to accomplish effectively and economically.
A new study has revealed extensive lead contamination at recycling plants in seven African countries, with levels up to 48,000 ppm. The contamination poses significant health risks to nearby communities and children, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and emissions control measures.
Researchers from the University of Houston and IBM report emerging technologies that can increase plastic recycling rates, including chemical recycling methods and compatibilization of mixed plastic wastes. The goal is to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs, paving the way for more easily recyclable materials.
A recent study at the University of Missouri found that collegiate sports venues can significantly reduce waste by implementing better recycling systems, donating unsold food to charities, and replacing high-emission foods with more sustainable options. By adopting these strategies, stadiums can achieve 'zero waste' operations and set ...
Researchers developed a low-cost, environmentally friendly way to create rewritable printed materials using tungsten oxide and polyvinyl pyrrolidone. The material can be reused up to 40 times before quality declines, offering a potential solution to reducing paper waste.
Researchers at Kyung Hee University propose a model to recycle lithium ion batteries into energy storage units for solar-powered LED lamps, reducing e-waste and providing job opportunities. The system can light up a room for about five hours each day, lasting approximately three years without maintenance.
A UBC study reveals that individuals with an hourly wage mindset are less likely to undertake eco-friendly behaviors that require only a few seconds or minutes of extra effort. Researchers recommend equating environmental behavior with self-interest and adjusting billing practices to promote sustainability.
Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new battery concept using renewable biomaterials from alfalfa and pine resin, which can be recycled with low energy input and non-hazardous chemicals. The battery proved capable of delivering up to 99% of the energy output from a spent battery.
India's population of 1.3 billion will generate over 900 million notebook computers past their life expectancy by 2025, highlighting the need for effective e-waste recycling infrastructure. The study estimates that over a billion PCs will be obsolete by 2020, posing significant risks to human health and the environment.
A new study by the American Chemical Society found that state e-waste recycling bans have been largely ineffective in reducing electronic waste disposal. However, providing more information to women and older people could increase the effectiveness of these bans and recycling programs.
A new study reveals that targeted messages based on political orientation can significantly influence consumers' recycling intentions. Consumers who identify as liberals respond better to appeals focused on fairness and reducing harm, while conservatives are more likely to recycle when appeals emphasize group membership or authority. T...
The recycling of discarded consumer goods can make a big contribution to efficient management of non-renewable raw materials. A new international process is being launched to develop quality and sustainability standards for secondary raw materials, focusing on three main areas: improving basic data and support for pilot projects.
The ecoATM system uses AI to evaluate devices, determine market value and offer recycling options. Three-fourths of collected phones find new homes, while rare earth elements are reclaimed and toxic components are recycled.
A study reveals that most electronic waste in Spain is uncontrolled, with only 2.55 kg out of 13.86 kg collected and processed correctly under the Integrated Waste Management System (SIG). The majority of manufacturers are not registered in the system, leading to significant payment evasion.
A new method for recycling perlite developed by Louisiana State University researcher Hanna Y. Hanna can save tomato growers a significant amount of money without reducing crop yield. The method, which uses hot water treatment and minimal labor input, reduces recycling cost by up to 50%.
A study published in Atmospheric Environment found toxic elements in e-waste recycling emissions in southern China, posing health risks to workers and the environment. The research team identified carcinogens and persistent organic pollutants through mass spectrometry and other instrumentation.
Primitive recycling processes used in developing countries contaminate air, water, and soil with pollutants like dioxins and toxic cyanide. Alternative solutions, such as paying recyclers not to recycle or promoting repair and reuse, are proposed to address the growing e-waste problem.
Experts advocate standardizing recycling technologies and government policies worldwide to extend product life, recover valuable metals, and reduce CO2 emissions. The initiative could transform millions of old devices into functional units, reducing e-waste and promoting sustainable consumption.
Researchers developed a method for assessing wind turbine removal and recycling, considering future impacts up to 2050. The study aims to reduce negative effects of wind power by adopting an interactive approach.
A molecular recycling plant has been found in the brain that enables nerve cells to record new experiences and maintain memories over time. This process involves the constant movement of receptors around synapses, which are then recycled and returned intact.
The CRADA team, comprising Argonne National Laboratory, USCAR and the Plastics Division of the American Chemistry Council, has been awarded the Plastics Recycling and Sustainability Award. The team's work focuses on mechanical recycling technologies and chemical conversion of end-of-life vehicle materials to fuels and chemicals.
A Dartmouth study found that better transportation decisions, such as driving fuel-efficient cars, could save more energy than recycling plastic and aluminum. Researchers used life-cycle analysis to measure the environmental benefits of different activities.
The study concludes that recycling packaging waste reduces energy consumption and generates positive environmental effects, including a reduction in landfill use. The focus on packaging has also led to increased recycled materials, with over 140,000 tons of recyclable packaging increased since 1994.