Articles tagged with Sustainability
Researchers at McGill University argue that urban runoff toxicity is a growing concern due to increasing urbanization, impacting surface water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Sustainable strategies such as retention ponds and settling tanks can be implemented to control pollutant release and mitigate ecological impacts.
A decade-long study of over 17,000 South Africans found a significant link between community disasters and depression onset. Vulnerable groups showed the greatest risk increase, underscoring the need for targeted support.
A new study reveals that tumble drying a load of laundry releases comparable quantities of microfibres to those released during machine washing. Researchers found that using fabric conditioners and dryer sheets can significantly reduce microfibre release, while lint filters with smaller pores can trap larger masses.
A new study reveals that eating wild animals, known as bushmeat, is associated with reduced anaemia cases among children living in the Amazon rainforest. The researchers found that bushmeat consumption can partially protect the health of vulnerable rural children by increasing their iron levels.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a sustainable, pollen-based 'paper' that can be printed on and reused multiple times. The paper's non-toxic properties make it an attractive alternative to conventional wood-based paper, which has a significant environmental impact.
A University of Illinois-led study reveals a significant decline in tropical forest bird populations, with 70% of understory bird species experiencing a drop of half or more since 1977. The findings highlight the importance of long-term studies and the need to address the lack of data on tropical bird populations.
Research at the University of Gothenburg found that shipping companies prioritize economic interests over energy efficiency when planning routes, which hampers efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The study highlights the importance of collaboration and decision-makers' choices in achieving sustainable shipping.
The study highlights the interconnectedness of the Arctic's natural resources, ecosystems, and people with global events. Climate change, conflict, and increased resource extraction are identified as key drivers of socioeconomic and environmental changes in the region.
Colorado State University researchers have developed a system that creates renewable energy while diverting waste from landfills, producing valuable products like sustainable aviation fuel and cleaning solvents. The ReSOURCE system can offset the carbon dioxide equivalent of 6.2 million cars a year.
The project aims to replace fossil materials with innovative bio-based materials from agricultural tree crops. Poplars are grown on poorly nutrient-supplied soils and used to develop sustainable products, including furniture and household items.
The expanded protected area protects fourteen marine mammal species and improves connectivity of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor. The new management plan prohibits fishing in two-thirds of the area and allows sustainable fishing, reducing bycatch and promoting conservation.
Researchers have developed biobased materials derived from fungi that can produce sustainable faux leather, paper products, and cotton substitutes. These materials have properties comparable to traditional materials, with the added benefit of being 100% biobased and taking less time to produce.
The new NCHRP Guide updates pedestrian analysis methodologies to support safe and sustainable communities. The research team developed new products published in 2022, free to download from the National Academies Press.
A University of Alberta study found that environmentally aware consumers are more inclined to buy insect- or algae-fed chicken if provided with information about its health and environmental benefits. Consumers who received nutrition facts on the packaging were more likely to purchase the alternative product, while those without this i...
Researchers developed a new reading method for SOT-RAMs that can nullify the readout disturbance, reducing it by at least 10 times. The method involves creating a bi-directional read path, cancelling out the disturbances produced by spin currents.
A new study found that marine cold spells are becoming less intense and frequent due to ocean warming. This shift could reduce the impact of mass die-off events but also diminishs refuges from heat waves, threatening ecosystem resilience.
A new study led by UMass Amherst finds that human-caused erosion in the US Midwest has lost nearly double the average sustainable rate, with plowing identified as the major culprit. The team's research estimates that the region has lost approximately 57.6 billion metric tons of topsoil since farming began 160 years ago.
A Peruvian trial of underwater sound devices called pingers reduced bycatch of dolphins by 83%, but failed to deter humpback whales. The study found that lower-frequency pingers may be needed to address whale interactions.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new system that can automatically clean solar panels without using water, reducing dust accumulation's impact on efficiency. The system uses electrostatic repulsion to detach dust particles, improving overall power output and potentially saving $200,000 in annual revenue.
A Brazilian study proposes a methodology to involve secondary school students in mapping natural disaster hazards and impact prevention. The students, aged between 2019-2021, were trained to identify areas prone to flooding and landslides using aerial photographs taken by drones.
A team of researchers found that people who purchased environmentally friendly products in the past are likely to continue doing so, but gamification practices did not significantly impact future eco-friendly tendencies. The study explored game-based solutions to increase intrinsic motivations for sustainable practices.
Researchers at São Paulo State University have developed an edible bioplastic with a tensile strength comparable to petroleum-based plastics. The material is made from gelatin, clay and a nanoemulsion of black pepper essential oil, extending shelf life and preventing microbial contamination.
A study of 2,272 streams in North America found that human-altered streams are at greater risk of severe flooding due to increased paved surfaces. Human activities also lead to water shortages and biodiversity loss in these streams.
A new sustainable solar oven design, developed in Nigeria, combines two conventional designs to provide a cleaner alternative for cooking without hazardous fuels. The cooker uses locally sourced materials and can be easily assembled and operated by one person.
A Tel Aviv University study found that investors who switched to a social fund reduced their donations to charities, mainly in similar causes. However, most investors in the social fund had not previously donated, suggesting that social funds entice more people to fund social causes.
A study from the University of California, Davis, found that reducing leaks in urban water systems can be a highly effective and cost-competitive method for saving water. The research suggests that leak reduction is the most cost-effective tool in an urban water manager's toolkit, with estimated savings of $277 per acre-foot.
A new randomized controlled trial found that making small changes to caloric intake and physical activity levels did not prevent long-term weight gain better than monitoring alone. Researchers observed reduced weight at 3, 6, 12, and 15 months but no significant difference by 24 months.
A team of researchers has developed a DNA-based data storage platform with an expanded molecular alphabet, enabling the storage of vast amounts of digital information. The new system uses nanopores to distinguish between natural and chemically modified nucleotides, increasing storage density and sustainability.
A new study by Bangor University suggests that a biodiversity offsetting scheme at Ambatovy mine in Madagascar has successfully achieved 'No Net Loss' of the unique forest habitat destroyed by the mine. The study, which used state-of-the-art approaches to evaluate the impact of the mine's strategy, found that the offsets have saved nea...
Researchers analyzed user survey data and on-the-ground observations to understand e-scooter use and safety. The study found that older riders were less likely to experience crashes, while helmet use was lower in observed data compared to surveyed users.
Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology analyzed 18 Tokyo Metropolitan Area railway lines to understand the impact of in-vehicle congestion on efficiency. They found that incorporating congestion rates into efficiency analysis can help develop better public transit strategies, leading to higher service levels and sustainability.
A recent data-driven study by Emory University researchers highlights the struggles of US farmers to make a living, even with government subsidies. The study creates a free online data hub to track farmer livelihoods and suggests that federal subsidies need to be reimagined to support innovation and adaptation in agriculture.
A study led by the University of Texas at Austin found that groundwater levels in Sub-Saharan Africa frequently increased over time, with most aquifers replenishing their water supply during rainy periods. The research tracked long-term water storage gains and losses across Africa's major aquifers using NASA's GRACE satellites.
A recent field study examines the 2006 Abuja Declaration's effects on N fertilizer use, yield potential, and soil fertility. The study found that partial N balances exceeded optimal ranges, highlighting insufficient N input and elevated risk of soil depletion.
In the 1990s, Massachusetts activists drafted model legislation for community choice aggregation, which has been adopted by 1,800 communities in six states. The program allows cities and towns to purchase renewable energy, reducing reliance on utility companies.
Researchers at the University of Bath have developed a simple and rapid chemical recycling process for polycarbonates, breaking down plastic waste within 20 minutes at room temperature. The new process can convert waste into its chemical constituents, preserving product quality over an infinite number of cycles.
Scientists identified a new plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) that enhances duckweed biomass productivity by 2.7-fold, increasing photosynthesis and wastewater treatment efficiency. The molecular mechanism suggests that organic compounds are transferred from the bacteria to duckweed, triggering an increase in photosynthetic activity.
Researchers at TUM have successfully produced succinic acid using the marine bacterium Vibrio natriegens, which has rapid growth and substrate uptake rates. The team is now working to optimize the process for industrial-scale production using renewable raw materials.
Urbanization in China has led to an increase in biomass and carbon stocks, both in rural areas and recently developed cities. The country's afforestation strategy and green policy initiatives have contributed to this positive effect on its climate balance.
A team of scientists at KAUST has created adjustable and biodegradable nanofiltration membranes from date seeds using an environmentally friendly process. The new membranes demonstrated excellent performance in oil and solvent filtration experiments, outperforming traditional methods.
A study by KIT and international partners found that protecting 30-50% of the terrestrial land surface could lead to increased agricultural production, higher food prices, and reduced food consumption, resulting in a higher risk of diet-related diseases. Poorer countries would be disproportionately affected.
Researchers in Brazil and Portugal create biodegradable plastic film using eutectic solvents and natural pigments extracted from yeast. The process is environmentally sustainable and has potential applications in smart packaging with antioxidant and anti-microbial properties.
Yushan Yan, a University of Delaware engineering professor, has been recognized by the National Academy of Engineering for his contributions to sustainable chemical engineering and electrochemical systems. He is also an inventor on over 20 patents and founder of Versogen, a Wilmington-based startup.
Researchers at University of Copenhagen find that pharmaceutical residues in sewage sludge and cattle manure do not harm soil organisms, despite concerns over environmental risks. Organic fertilizers like sludge and manure provide better soil quality than conventional mineral fertilizers.
A team of scientists is mapping out California's Lithium Valley and assessing the Salton Sea geothermal field's potential for sustainable, environmentally friendly lithium extraction. The goal is to meet America's urgent demand for lithium in a way that doesn't harm the environment.
New research suggests nuclear power can provide low-cost energy and replace natural gas as a backup source, enabling faster decarbonization in countries with poor wind resources. The analysis found that nuclear is the cheapest way to eliminate all electricity-system carbon emissions nearly everywhere.
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have developed a method to produce non-alcoholic beer that tastes like regular beer, improving its flavor and sustainability. The technique involves using micro-factories of yeast cells to release hop aroma molecules, eliminating the need for expensive aroma hops.
A new material, sodium carbo-hydridoborate, improves the performance of solid-state sodium batteries, making them more sustainable and durable. The ideal pressure to be applied to the battery for efficient operation has also been defined.
Researchers at MIT have engineered a composite made mostly from cellulose nanocrystals, which is stronger and tougher than some types of bone, and harder than typical aluminum alloys. The material has a unique brick-and-mortar microstructure that resembles nacre, making it resistant to cracks and plastic deformation.
Researchers developed a self-cleaning bioplastic that repels liquids and dirt like a lotus leaf, breaking down rapidly in soil. The bioplastic is made from cheap raw materials, compostable, and suitable for fresh food and takeaway packaging.
A team led by Marianthi Ierapetritou aims to create a blueprint for a more renewable manufacturing future. They will examine existing literature and develop a framework for evaluating alternative products and processes, including their economic, environmental, and market impacts.
A new internet-connected lighting system for greenhouses can optimize lighting and reduce electrical costs by up to 33% by predicting sunlight. The system uses sensors and algorithms to adjust light levels, making the most of natural sunlight and minimizing energy waste.
A new study suggests that mass customization can generate higher profits and reduce environmental waste considerably when overproduction is a problem. Customers willing to wait for bespoke clothing can make the fashion industry more environmentally sustainable.
A new study by NYU Tandon professor Nikhil Gupta explores the recyclability of lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries, highlighting the need for a circular economy approach. While lead acid batteries have a high recycling efficiency, lithium-ion batteries pose significant challenges due to their rapidly evolving chemistry and cell design.
Research reveals three modes of thought among Finnish forest owners: one views biodiversity loss as an emergency and advocates for radical change, while others see no problem. The study highlights the importance of acknowledging biodiversity loss denial in forestry discussions.
Researchers have created a range of permanent hair dyes that avoid the allergenic properties of traditional formulations, producing a range of hues from rosy pinks to deep blacks. The new dyes were found to be less reactive toward proteins and generated a reduced inflammatory response in cells compared to PPD.
A new online tool tracks e-bike purchase incentive programs in the US and Canada, providing a point of reference for future policy development. The tracker reveals that most programs set incentive levels fairly arbitrarily, with little thought given to their potential impact on specific groups or income brackets.
Researchers developed unprecedented insights into the natural and commercial flow of fish, highlighting the importance of inclusive approaches to fisheries management and conservation. The study's findings indicate a strong connection between larval dispersal and catch distribution in Hawaii, emphasizing the need for community-based ma...
A new open-source tool called SwolfPy helps solid waste systems achieve environmental goals by assessing various options in one place. The tool identifies the range of best possible options for users, depending on their priorities.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a low-pressure method to convert industrially processed biomass into high-performance plastics and valuable chemicals. The process uses glycerin as a solvent instead of methanol, reducing costs and environmental impact.