Articles tagged with Sustainability
Researchers have successfully recycled plastic waste from derelict fishing nets and household trash into asphalt roads in Hawaii. Initial tests show that pavements made with these materials release fewer microplastics than those made with standard asphalt pavement.
A new study reveals that transforming biomass from dedicated energy crops into biochar could provide a cost-effective and scalable solution for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping China move closer to its carbon neutrality goals. Biochar can lock carbon in soils for decades or even centuries while improving soil health.
A new report suggests that changing domestic shower and toilet habits could help close England's projected 5 billion litre daily water shortfall. The report identifies key behaviour change targets, including reporting or fixing in-home leaks, showering, and flushing toilets, and argues that effective behaviour change depends on underst...
A team of researchers developed a fully biodegradable and compostable soft robotic electronic system that maintains high performance and durability during operation yet completely returns to nature after use. The system was made from a water-free biodegradable elastomer and integrated biodegradable inorganic electronic components, exhi...
A new study finds that multilateral development banks are failing to adequately address environmental and social risks in green hydrogen projects. The current guidelines lack hydrogen-specific criteria, leaving critical policy gaps.
A study by Jeonbuk National University researchers highlights the potential risks of chemical-enhanced primary treatment (CEPT) sewage sludge, but also shows that thermal treatment can lead to secondary heavy metal pollution. The team recommends using lower pyrolysis temperatures to enhance sustainability.
Researchers discovered 30 bacterial species that break down biodegradable plastic, revealing speed and factors influencing degradation. The study highlights the importance of understanding microbial communities and plastic chemistry in plastic biodegradation.
Aging silicon-rich biochar reduces cadmium uptake in leafy vegetables, improving plant resistance to heavy metal stress. The material reshapes soil microbial communities, contributing to reduced cadmium availability.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have developed a method to transform post-consumer plastic into L-DOPA, a frontline medication for Parkinson's disease. The process harnesses the power of bacteria to break down PET waste and produce L-DOPA, providing a sustainable solution to the production of pharmaceuticals.
Multicultural intergroup dialogue improves holistic support for international students at Japanese universities. The approach, based on Intergroup Dialogue, promotes equitable and inclusive university environments, where students from diverse backgrounds interact and learn with one another.
Kyushu University researchers observed individual polymer chains' behavior on solid surfaces, revealing non-equilibrium dynamics and thermal fluctuations. The study contributes to enhancing adhesive performance and lightweighting of materials.
Researchers developed a low-cost method to transform agricultural waste into high-quality biochar, increasing its ability to store carbon and combat climate change. The new method uses limewater treatment to improve biochar production, resulting in a 34% increase in carbon retention and improved soil structure and chemistry.
The study found that the extract reduced cell damage compounds by over 75% and preserved skin health with over 60% of cells remaining alive. The researchers developed a natural dye, produced by Talaromyces amestolkiae fungus, which can be used in cosmetic formulations while maintaining safety and functionality.
A new study presents a practical and regulation-compliant design for producing biochar on farms that could dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture while permanently removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The proposed system could produce 300 tonnes of biochar annually, sequester approximately 350 tonnes of c...
The journal argues that AI can process vast datasets to detect patterns and predict climate impacts, improving pollution tracking, climate modeling, and agricultural planning. AI-driven modeling can also help policymakers evaluate tradeoffs and anticipate unintended consequences, supporting more informed decision-making.
Researchers in Oman have launched a pilot seaweed farm to evaluate the commercial feasibility of cultivating native seaweed species. The project aims to establish a scalable and sustainable blue-economy sector based on marine biotechnology and aquaculture innovation.
A new study reveals major blind spots in global sustainable research, overlooking key strategies and sectors needed to address the environmental crisis. The study finds that sustainability researchers are neglecting potentially powerful actors, including civil society, and failing to assign clear responsibilities across sectors.
A new study by Manchester researchers argues that directional terms like 'upcycling' and 'downcycling' can skew perceptions of plastic sustainability. The study suggests that a more nuanced approach is needed to evaluate the environmental impact of recycling technologies.
Researchers explore how METs convert organic waste into electricity, fuels, fertilizers, and usable water. Pilot deployments demonstrate its potential to reclaim energy from 359 billion cubic meters of wastewater annually.
Emerging microbially-powered technologies can convert up to 35% of wastewater's chemical energy into electricity and extract valuable nutrients. This approach could power agriculture, global sanitation and its own treatment, while reducing pollution and overcoming regulatory obstacles.
A thriving edible garden in Brisbane attracts thousands daily, offering a blueprint for local governments to provide fresh food as a public service. The Epicurious Garden boosts biodiversity and provides education, inspiration, and sensory enjoyment, connecting people with nature.
A new study suggests that applying biochar to rewetted peatlands can improve long-term carbon storage while reducing the need for highly stable biochars. Rewetting peatlands slows decomposition and helps prevent carbon loss, allowing more of biochar's carbon to remain stored over time.
A new study reveals disparities in urban shade levels, leading to greater health risks and exacerbating the 'heat island' effect in cities. Wealthier neighborhoods tend to have more trees, resulting in better shade provision for pedestrians, highlighting a consistent link between wealth and neighborhood tree abundance.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have discovered a way to convert microplastic waste into acetic acid, the main ingredient of vinegar, using sunlight. The breakthrough offers a promising new approach to reducing plastic pollution through photocatalysis, creating a valuable chemical product.
La Trobe University researchers developed a new way to measure and report farm environmental performance using Farm-scale Natural Capital Accounting. The method combines production data, remote sensing, ecological modeling, and on-ground assessments to deliver transparent and verifiable farm-scale accounts.
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.
Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.
A new framework introduces the Water Sustainability Index (WSI), a transparent, quantitative metric designed to strengthen corporate water accountability worldwide. The WSI evaluates corporate water withdrawals, consumption, discharge quality, and reuse while accounting for local water scarcity.
The Olympic Games' substantial carbon footprint highlights the need for a profound overhaul to comply with the Paris Agreement. Researchers recommend scaling down events, reducing air travel and increasing use of renewable energy to achieve ambitious emission reduction targets.
A recent study reveals that discretionary foods, including sweets and soft drinks, account for nearly one-fifth of Finnish households' total food expenditure. This has significant environmental implications, contributing to climate change, freshwater eutrophication, and land use.
The study reveals that redefining the concept of electrode-electrolyte interphase layers can improve battery stability and performance. Researchers found that careful control of interphase properties through materials choice, electrolyte formulation, and binder selection can significantly extend battery life.
A study from Lund University found that a climate-friendly diet rich in plant-based foods like wholegrains, legumes, fruit, and vegetables leads to better nutritional status compared to traditional diets. Despite lower meat consumption, most participants achieved sufficient amounts of key vitamins and minerals.
The survey found that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sustainability in floriculture, with each sector having unique needs and goals. Healthy majorities of respondents already recycle containers and use LED lighting, while sectors differ in their interest for future sustainable practices.
Wachs was recognized for his work on mixed oxide catalysts that guide the rational design of solid catalysts for air pollution remediation, sustainable energy, fuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. His election to the NAE honors his contributions to chemical engineering and the modern field of operando molecular spectroscopy.
Researchers have created a process to produce clean hydrogen from freshwater and seawater using liquid metals powered by sunlight. The method avoids many obstacles in current hydrogen production methods, including the need for purified water and high costs. The team is working to improve efficiency for commercialization.
Researchers at King's College London and San Diego State University identified the molecular interactions that give spider silk its exceptional strength and flexibility. The findings provide general design principles for developing high-performance, sustainable fibers.
Researchers developed a comprehensive framework for dynamic digital product passports to track lifecycle changes in perishable goods, enabling earlier interventions to prevent spoilage and reduce waste. The technology could support more circular supply chains and improve transparency across food and drink supply chains.
MIT engineers have designed a 3D-printed floor truss system made from recycled plastic, which exceeds building standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The printed flooring can hold over 4,000 pounds and weighs about 13 pounds per truss, making it a lighter alternative to traditional wood-based trusses.
A team of mechanical engineers has created a wood-based material that can store and release heat to make building temperatures more comfortable. The phase-change material reduces the need for air conditioning by harnessing excess heat from the environment.
Researchers propose redesigning health systems in the Brazilian Amazon to account for climate change, extreme weather events, and food insecurity. They suggest integrating traditional knowledge and care practices adapted to local communities' specific needs.
Agricultural waste from crops like wheat, rice, and maize can act as a powerful carbon sink when diverted into construction products. The study finds that these materials can store carbon for decades rather than releasing it within months.
The study maps where and how millions of animals may be affected by heat stress in Europe. Regional differences were found, with southern European countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and Romania likely to face significant impacts.
A new study by IIASA and UN-Habitat finds that citizen science can strengthen urban sustainability monitoring, particularly for issues like air quality and community wellbeing. The analysis reveals that many indicators remain incomplete and are reported mainly at national level.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a patent-pending shark deterrent that can be used to reduce bycatch in fisheries. The device produces an electric field that repels sharks from bait without affecting target fish, and has been shown to reduce catches of coastal sharks by 62-70%.
The study highlights ten key trends shaping vocational education worldwide, including innovation-driven development, faculty development, and digital transformation. The research suggests a shift towards dynamic lifelong learning systems driven by technology and sustainability.
Researchers at Sultan Qaboos University successfully demonstrated large-scale spirulina production under local conditions, reducing reliance on imported nutritional products. The project opens opportunities for industry collaboration and contributes to national goals of sustainability, food resilience and economic diversification.
A team of researchers from Chonnam National University explores how boosting consumer trust can increase adoption of second-life EV battery tech. They found that transparent safety inspections and tailored messaging can improve adoption outcomes.
A research team at UNH uses unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to monitor corn fields, providing insights into crop yields and disease risks. The study demonstrates the ability of UAV imagery to differentiate between corn varieties with high accuracy.
A study by Chungnam National University finds that climate adaptation can significantly reduce migration from drought and armed conflict in Africa. Countries with stronger adaptive capacity experience lower migration levels during crisis conditions, highlighting the importance of policies addressing environmental and security threats.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new way to harness the properties of tungsten carbide as a catalyst for producing valuable chemicals and fuels. The method, which involves carefully manipulating tungsten carbide particles at the nanoscale level, has shown promising results in reducing costs and increasing eff...
The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) received the 2025 Glenview Environmental Sustainability Award for Innovation, recognizing its commitment to clean energy and reduced emissions. The organization's solar panel installation at its headquarters powers medical simulation facilities using renewable energy.
The study demonstrates large NIR modulation using low-cost sodium electrolytes, comparable to lithium-based systems, with efficient heat-shielding performance. This breakthrough offers a practical solution for thermal regulation in diverse climate conditions.
Researchers have designed an electrode that captures airborne CO2 and directly converts it into formic acid, outperforming existing electrodes. The system demonstrated utility in ambient air conditions, making it a promising strategy for integrating CO2 capture into practical industrial applications.
The AI Polis platform offers a city-level coordination system to design, prioritize, and scale projects that improve urban life while staying within planetary boundaries. By connecting technology, policy, finance, and environmental science, it guides cities in strengthening communities while protecting the planet.
Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a new dual-chemical looping process that improves the efficiency of ammonia synthesis by 8.4% and reduces global warming potential by up to 15.85 kg CO2-equivalent per kilogram of ammonia produced.
Researchers develop synthesis method for metal-single atom catalysts that boosts electrolysis-based hydrogen production. The new method produces high purity H2 with only oxygen as a by-product and demonstrates outstanding catalytic performance.
The United Nations University reports that many regions are living beyond their hydrological means, with critical water systems already bankrupt. The study defines 'water bankruptcy' as persistent over-withdrawal from surface and groundwater relative to renewable inflows and safe levels of depletion. This has resulted in a growing list...
The conference will feature sessions on biochar innovation and real-world impact in materials science, environmental policy, and sustainable agriculture. The journal Biochar and Carbon Research are also being promoted.
The new manual provides comprehensive guidance on designing permanent bamboo structures, covering topics such as fire safety and durability. It aims to support the global use of bamboo construction, a low-carbon alternative with remarkable mechanical properties.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University found that only 0.2% of used PCFs are washed into rivers, while 28% end up back on beaches near direct drainage points. The study highlights a significant 'sink' in the global circulation of plastics and sheds light on the complex transport of microplastics.