Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Dynamic digital product passports for short-shelf-life food and drink could cut waste and improve safety

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.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Reviews Clean Technology·DateFeb 3, 2026

FAU ‘shark-repellent’ method could reform fisheries by curbing bycatch

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%.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2026

Chungnam National University study finds climate adaptation can ease migration pressures in Africa

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.

CNU research explains how boosting consumer trust unlocks the $4 billion market for retired EV batteries

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.

Jeonbuk National University researchers develop novel dual-chemical looping method for efficient ammonia synthesis

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.

SourceJeonbuk National University, Sustainable Strategy team, Planning and Coordination Division·JournalEnergy Conversion and Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 21, 2026

World enters “era of global water bankruptcy”; UN scientists formally define new post-crisis reality for billions

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...

SourceUnited Nations University·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2026

Overlooked decline in grazing livestock brings risks and opportunities

A new global study finds that nearly half of livestock production occurs in areas with destocking, a process that poses new ecological and land management challenges. Destocking can increase wildfire risk and biodiversity decline, but also enables ecosystems to capture more atmospheric carbon dioxide.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 12, 2026

Commercially viable biomanufacturing: designer yeast turns sugar into lucrative chemical 3-HP

Scientists developed a cost-effective method to produce 3-Hydroxypropanoic acid (3-HP), an industrial chemical used in disposable diapers, microplastics, and acrylic paint. The new process using engineered microbes to ferment plant sugars into 3-HP has been validated for commercial potential.

A single gene underlies begomovirus resistance in eggplant

A study at Kindai University has identified a single gene in eggplant that provides resistance to begomovirus infection. This finding holds promise for developing naturally protected crop varieties, reducing the need for insecticides and promoting sustainable food production.

SourceKindai University·JournalTheoretical and Applied Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2026

Doing good pays off: Environmentally and socially responsible companies drive value and market efficiency

A global study of 2,636 firms across 31 countries found that stronger ESG disclosure and performance correspond to higher intrinsic value. This aligns with theoretical analysis and signaling theory, highlighting the need for companies to communicate substantive progress honestly.

SourceKyushu University·JournalBusiness Strategy and the Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 8, 2026

A JBNU–KIMS collaborative study on a cost-effective alloy matches superalloys for power plants and energy infrastructure

Scientists develop corrosion-resistant alumina-forming ferritic alloys that exhibit outstanding mechanical properties and oxidation resistance, potentially transforming energy systems and nuclear reactors. These materials offer economic feasibility while maintaining high reliability and could accelerate adoption in practical applications.

On-demand upgraded recycling of polyethylene and construction of sustainable multifunctional materials based on the "LEGO" strategy

Academician Yu-Zhong Wang's team proposes a novel recycling method that degrades polyethylene into oligomers, which are then assembled with functional monomers through dynamic imine bonds. The resulting material exhibits excellent mechanical properties and multiple functions such as flame retardancy, antistatic properties, and UV shiel...

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2026

Pusan National University researchers discover faster, smarter heat treatment for lightweight magnesium metals

Researchers at Pusan National University have discovered a new, faster method for treating lightweight magnesium metals using electropulsing technology. The technique, which involves applying electric pulses to the metal, can accelerate grain growth and improve mechanical properties.

SourcePusan National University·JournalJournal of Magnesium and Alloys·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2025

Science based energy choices: New perspective urges balanced path for prosperity, climate, and the environment

The article introduces the concept of an Energy and Environment Nexus as a web linking energy services, human well-being and environmental health. It proposes four imperatives of energy: power intensity, energy density, cost and scale to determine practical and sustainable energy systems.

From powder to planet: University of Modena engineers forge a low-carbon future for advanced metal manufacturing

Researchers from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia have developed a life cycle-verified roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in laser powder bed fusion. The study provides a tiered, cumulative action plan that factories can adopt incrementally, making measurable progress towards sustainability.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalCarbon Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2025

Prospects for the development of eco-friendly dielectric insulation materials from a full life cycle sustainability perspective

Researchers are exploring ways to create green, closed-loop electrical insulation systems with excellent performance and recyclability. Bio-based monomers and mineral-based silicones are replacing petrochemical feedstocks, while advanced processing techniques enable self-healing and physicochemical recycling capabilities.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateDec 16, 2025

New framework reveals where transport emissions concentrate in Singapore

A new framework reveals that compact, mixed-use districts like One-North are designed to generate cleaner travel patterns, but the reality is more complex. Emissions hotspots were identified at major arterial roads, weaker transit-accessible edges of districts, and busy corridors like North Buona Vista Road.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalInternational Journal on Smart and Sustainable Cities·DateDec 15, 2025

Jeonbuk National University researchers develop novel eco-friendly and photo-switchable smart adhesives

Jeonbuk National University researchers have developed a novel, eco-friendly, and photo-switchable smart adhesive using biomass-derived materials. The adhesive demonstrates reversible light-controlled adhesion and retains over 90% of its original strength after repeated usage cycles.

SourceJeonbuk National University, Sustainable Strategy team, Planning and Coordination Division·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2025