Articles tagged with Sustainability
A study by ICTA-UAB finds that implementing teleworking two, three or four days a week would reduce nitrogen dioxide levels by 4%, 8% and 10%. This is achieved through a decrease in traffic-related emissions, with the greatest reduction expected when all employees in the service sector work from home.
The New England Aquarium has selected a new cohort of eight startup companies for the BlueSwell incubator program, focusing on early-stage entrepreneurship in bluetech. The program provides direct grants and mentorship to support scalable solutions enhancing ocean health and sustainable industries.
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that tiny porous crystals called zeolites can speed up chemical reactions by changing the shape of water molecules. This approach could lead to more sustainable and environmentally friendly industrial processes.
The study found that policies promoting comprehensive nitrogen mitigation options could alleviate hunger by 590 million people by 2050. Increasing nitrogen use efficiency in agronomic practices is the most effective strategy to reduce undernourishment while respecting regional nitrogen boundaries.
The MPA Guide categorizes MPAs by stage of establishment and level of protection, highlighting the importance of including local peoples in the decision-making process for effective conservation. The guide specifies outcomes for biodiversity and human well-being depending on the chosen level of protection.
A new paradigm in breast cancer screening has been established with immediate-read screenings during the pandemic. This approach reduces racial and ethnic disparities in same-day diagnostic imaging, while speeding up diagnoses.
Researchers found that areas protected under 'whole-site' Marine Protected Area (MPA) status have four-fold increases in fish abundance and diversity compared to unprotected areas. The study also showed significant benefits for commercially important fish species and conservation.
Research finds that neighborhoods with longer commute times and high residential density are more prone to infectious disease hotspots, while dense urban design can improve mobility conditions and resilience. The study suggests that a 20-minute city concept can promote livability, sustainability, and pandemic-resilient urban planning.
Researchers have successfully produced iron-based Metal Organic Framework (MOF) materials directly using renewable electricity at room temperature, overcoming challenges in scalability and environmental friendliness. The new method is 96% efficient and enables the creation of advanced MOF sensors.
The Agrobiodiversity Index reveals that globally, biodiversity and agrobiodiversity are in decline, with only a fraction of species contributing to crop production. Maintaining diversity is vital for achieving sustainable food systems.
Researchers have developed an AI-powered tool, Roofpedia, to track sustainable roof adoption worldwide. The tool uses satellite images to gauge cities' green and solar roof penetration, with Singapore ranked third in solar roof coverage.
Researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology synthesized elastic polymer films with versatile elongation and fracture properties using photo-modulus patterning. The films' Young's modulus can be controlled by post-preparation photo reaction, making them suitable for diverse applications.
A study by Hokkaido University researchers found that seagrass ecosystems are more vulnerable to loss and degradation than mangrove ecosystems. Communities with greater reliance on fisheries and tourism income have higher socio-economic sensitivity due to low adaptive capacity, leading to limited alternatives to fishing. Improving acce...
A Swiss research team created a nanogenerator made from functionalized wood, generating 80 times more electricity than natural wood. The device can power household LED lamps and small electronic devices, demonstrating a potential sustainable energy source for smart buildings.
Researchers have developed a biodegradable polymer coating that can block grease and oil in compostable paper packaging, reducing environmental impact. The coating's ester linkages break apart in water, allowing microorganisms to degrade it.
The Daylight Award 2022 is now open for nominations, honoring groundbreaking research on the effects of daylight on human health and well-being. The award also recognizes innovative architectural projects showcasing unique uses of daylight, aiming to improve living conditions and environmental impact.
Researchers developed a pollen-based hybrid ink that can be used to fabricate parts useful for tissue engineering, toxicity testing and drug delivery. The ink is biocompatible, flexible and low in cost, allowing for the creation of customized flexible membranes tailored to human skin contours.
The Telehealth Service Implementation Model (TSIM) offers a comprehensive approach to developing and sustaining successful telehealth programs. TSIM addresses key challenges such as provider and patient engagement, technical, financial, regulatory, and administrative burdens.
A new study by Tufts University researchers identifies a high risk of forced labor in US fruits and vegetables, with most food-country combinations coded as high risk. The study's findings highlight the need for policymakers, farmers, and food companies to address systemic issues in food supply chains.
A study analyzing over 120 million social media posts reveals that tourists focus more on nature in marine protected areas than neighboring coastal zones. The research found that these areas provide more cultural ecosystem services than adjacent coastal areas.
A global inventory reveals oil refineries emitted 1.3Gt CO2 in 2018, with potential emissions of 16.5Gt by 2030 if no mitigation strategies are adopted. Researchers recommend improving refinery efficiency and upgrading technologies to reduce emissions.
The Lancet reports that extreme heat is becoming a major health issue, with over 356,000 deaths in 2019 related to heat. Effective cooling strategies are needed to protect vulnerable populations and mitigate climate change.
A new study reveals that deforestation and population growth have greatly increased landslide risk in the Kivu Rift, leading to thousands of fatalities each year. The research, conducted over six decades, shows that smallholder agriculture and mining activities also contribute to landslides.
Researchers from the University of Nottingham have developed a novel catalyst that combines homogeneous and heterogeneous features, defying traditional categorization. The discovery holds promise for increasing the active surface area available for catalysis, leading to more efficient and sustainable production of molecules.
A study by Washington State University found that Gen Z adults are open to apparel rental services as a way to reduce waste and extend clothing lifespan. Key factors contributing to this trend include the perceived effectiveness of making a difference and a focus on usage over ownership.
Countries lagging behind in renewable energy adoption risk lower industrial competitiveness and economic instability. Uneven transition patterns can exacerbate existing international tensions, making it difficult for late decarbonizers to catch up with early movers.
Research in the southern Murray-Darling Basin has found a downward spiral in water availability, driven by accelerated changes in climate. Since the 1990s, cool season rainfall and river heights have significantly decreased due to increased evaporation and changed precipitation patterns.
Heavy rainfall accelerates radiocesium leaching from forest litter, increasing dissolved cesium in stream water. The study suggests that expansion of the contact area between water and litter due to groundwater table rise is the main factor.
Pasquali proposes splitting hydrocarbons to produce clean hydrogen energy and solid carbon materials, which could replace materials with large carbon footprints. This transition would generate robust growth in manufacturing jobs and improve production efficiency.
A new study analyzed Italian firms' Twitter conversations during the pandemic, revealing a focus on environmental sustainability and digital transformation. The research highlights the importance of corporate social responsibility and stakeholder engagement on these themes.
The institute will develop predictive digital twins of individual crop plants and entire farm fields, integrating real-time data from sensors to optimize crop growth. By leveraging expertise in plant sciences, engineering, and technology, AIIRA aims to accelerate agricultural productivity and sustainability.
A team of Lehigh University researchers is studying a promising alternative catalytic process based on solid acid catalysts for ethylene dimerization. Using in situ and operando molecular spectroscopy, they aim to understand the surface structures of the catalyst and design more active catalysts with reduced environmental impact.
A multidisciplinary team of scientists developed a method to dispose wastewater safely, reducing the danger of triggering earthquakes. The approach was tested in Italy's largest onshore oil field and found to be sustainable.
A study re-evaluating global fish stock recovery finds that alternative methods reveal nearly half of individual stocks are still below biomass targets and 40% are being overfished. The results suggest a cautious approach may be needed to rebuild depleted fisheries.
Researchers at Aalto University have developed a bio-based coating for wood using lignin, a natural polymer abundant in wood and other plant sources. The coating retains the natural structure of wood, making it more water repellent and resistant to stains and sunlight.
Göttingen University researchers have developed a new type of hydroplastic polymer called cellulose cinnamate (CCi) that can be molded using little more than water at everyday temperature and pressure. The bioplastic exhibits high quality mechanical properties, making it suitable for various applications.
A qualitative study found that community health workers are integral to identifying patients' social needs, with roles shifting from screener to implementer. However, social needs screening data is often not integrated into electronic health records or used for population health management, and sites face barriers to its implementation.
A new model of inclusive sustainability emphasizes researchers' life experiences as a source of unique perspectives on socioecological challenges. This approach seeks to address the limitations of traditional conservation methods and promote more effective solutions.
A collaborative project between Simon Fraser University and local First Nations aims to conserve iconic western redcedar trees suitable for traditional carving and ceremonial purposes. Researchers found that these trees are generally rare, with nearly extinct forms being targeted by industrial logging.
Repela Tech LLC, a Detroit-based sustainability tech startup, is developing a novel non-toxic antifoulant coating to protect ships and boats from biofouling. The coating aims to reduce drag, fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions, benefiting the global shipping industry.
A third of EU-regulated eel products were found to be mislabelled, with some species originating from China and the US. The study highlights the need for straightforward labelling requirements that include the scientific name of the species.
A Russian study forecasts that economic growth will be driven by improved efficiency in the mining complex (EMC) and capital formation. The EMC is expected to play a key role in driving growth, particularly through increased investment in natural resource extraction and export activities.
A new study by the University of Oxford and Environmental Change Institute found that evidence submitted in 73 climate lawsuits is behind state-of-the-art climate science. The study highlights the need for litigators to use more effective scientific evidence to overcome obstacles to causality.
A study found that plant-based protein shakes made from potato and rice proteins can effectively manage appetite and blood glucose levels, making them suitable for individuals with diabetes or obesity. The research showed that these plant-based shakes may be a sustainable alternative to milk-based whey protein shakes.
A University of Guam study highlights the importance of traditional practices in conserving endangered species like the Marianas fruit bat and Micronesian cycad. The research found that restoring these species could also restore traditional Chamoru practices, improving food security and biodiversity in the region.
Scientists have discovered a novel way to convert post-consumer plastic into vanillin, a valuable industrial chemical. This breakthrough could boost the circular economy by turning harmful plastics into a carbon resource and promoting sustainability.
A new report identifies four major barriers to financing a sustainable ocean economy, including weak enabling environment and insufficient public-private investment. Governments, financial institutions, and other players can make financial gains with sustainable ocean investments.
A recent study found that non-tiered customer loyalty programs create a more sustainable customer base and reduce customer fall-off and turnover. The program's effectiveness lies in its ability to nurture long-term relationships with customers, rather than increasing frequency or spending.
The Humboldt Research Fellowship supports outstanding international researchers in climate-protecting projects. Five new fellows, including Pablo Urbina and Dr. Nusrat Sultana, will conduct research on Participatory Guarantee Systems and mango genome research in Germany.
Romain van Wassenhove has created a sustainable bamboo connector that can be used to make modular structures out of sustainable materials. His invention is EU patent-protected and has been published in Composite Structures, a leading journal for composite materials and their applications.
Researchers aim to create a sustainable material design framework to mitigate pathogen exposure in drinking water. They will examine graphitic carbon nitride, a non-metal material with antimicrobial properties, to develop a cost-effective solution for treating drinking water.
An Indigenous Māori framework offers a new perspective on managing and conserving Antarctica, focusing on responsibilities rather than rights. This approach acknowledges the intrinsic link between human well-being and the environment, promoting reciprocal and sustainable relationships with the continent.
Construction firm Nationwide Engineering has made history by pouring the world's first sustainable graphene concrete slab in a commercial setting. The innovative material is strengthened by 30% compared to standard concrete, significantly reducing material use and carbon footprint.
Scientists call for stronger focus on understanding sand use and extraction to achieve economic and environmental justice. A new approach considers the interlinkages of sand supply and demand, linking extraction, processing, distribution, economics, and policy to reduce negative impacts.
Researchers examine how governments use stakeholder commissions to legitimize their transition policies, finding similarities and differences between the two countries. Both Canada and Germany face challenges in phasing out coal due to job losses and regional concerns.
A new study by Stanford researchers found that access to nature increases people's physical activity and overall health in cities. The research provides a framework to map the physical health benefits of urban green spaces, which can help city planners design more effective parks and green spaces.
Researchers confirm presence of two distinct but interbreeding species of caecilians on São Tomé island. The study suggests that volcanic activity may have driven the divergence of the limbless amphibians around 300,000 years ago.
Bamboo cricket bats offer improved performance, including increased strength and energy transfer, according to a recent University of Cambridge study. The research also highlights the potential environmental benefits of using bamboo, as it is more sustainable and requires less waste during manufacture than traditional willow.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created flat-packed pasta that forms into familiar shapes when cooked, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional pasta. The pasta's unique grooves control its shape, allowing for reduced packaging, storage, and transportation needs.
A study by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) found that personal opinions on purchasing security, environmental protection, and work conditions play a significant role in deciding whether to shop online or locally. The study used microeconometric models to analyze the shopping habits of 1,400 consumers in the Middle Upper-Rhine R...