Research on more sustainable materials and systems. Covers nature-inspired manufacturing, resource disparities, mood-supporting materials, and low-carbon concrete.
A new study by Linköping University finds artificial turf pitches more environmentally sustainable than natural turf when recycled and maintained properly. However, there are reservations due to production impact and maintenance emissions that can be mitigated with electrified machinery.
Researchers from National University of Singapore develop two techniques to boost carob pulp's flavor, making it more appealing and sustainable than cocoa. The innovations aim to reduce the chocolate industry's dependence on cocoa and address climate change challenges.
New research by MIT researchers found that even with the same CO2 reduction, air travel causes about three times more damage to air quality than comparable electricity purchases. The study highlights the importance of considering co-pollutants and regional factors when evaluating climate actions.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute present efficient and low-CO2 process to extract copper, nickel, and cobalt from deep-sea ore nodules. The method generates significantly less waste and deforestation compared to traditional land-based mining.
A study by MIT researchers examines two policy approaches to expanding the US electricity grid: one focusing on regions with more renewable energy sources and another creating more interconnections across the country. The study found that a geographically unbalanced grid buildout would be less expensive, while reducing carbon emissions...
A study led by Trinity College Dublin finds that higher plant diversity in grasslands increases yields with lower nitrogen fertilizer inputs. Multispecies mixtures outperform conventional practices and offer a climate adaptation solution.
Researchers have developed a new approach to overcome limitations in single-atom catalysts by creating one-dimensional organic polymers capable of selectively binding metal atoms. The platform marks a major advance in single atom catalysis, enabling stronger gas binding compared to other structures.
A research team led by Göttingen University found that urban blue spaces play a critical role in food security and social inclusion in four major Indian cities. Women, the elderly, and marginalized communities most frequently collected, shared, cooked, and sold food products.
A recent study by Chiba University researchers found that moths can detect the ultrasonic pulse rates emitted by bats, which triggers distinct escape responses. The findings suggest that certain pulse rates signal high predation risk, causing moths to avoid flying and even stop reproduction.
Researchers at The University of Osaka have developed a new reaction using main-group element gallium to synthesize important building-block molecules. The discovery uses earth-abundant elements, potentially easing reliance on rare-earth metals and reducing environmental costs.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a promising approach to remediate contaminated sites using an innovative electrochemical method. The process breaks down persistent organic pollutants (POPs) into harmless salts and useful hydrocarbons, contributing to the sustainable circular economy.
Biochar's applications in urban areas include reducing volatile organic compounds, improving cement durability, increasing crop yields, and removing heavy metals from water. However, large-scale adoption faces challenges such as standardized production methods and economic incentives.
A new study reveals prisoners in Finland express a willingness to act responsibly, but face challenges within prison structures. They identify climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss as serious problems, associating sustainability with everyday actions like recycling and saving energy.
A new study highlights 21 critical barriers to implementing green and blue infrastructure, including technical, social, economic, governance, and policy challenges. The research provides actionable strategies for practitioners and policymakers to enhance GBI resilience across diverse urban settings.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University reveal how copper particles create in mid-reaction, converting nitrite ions to ammonia. This insight promises leaps forward in developing new industrial chemistry for greener ammonia production.
The study found that more than half of the water consumed in the basin is used unsustainably, with only 48% naturally replenished each year. The researchers suggest adopting deficit irrigation practices and repurposing farmland for habitat restoration or solar farms to address the crisis.
Two new studies from Schneider Electric and Boston University Institute for Global Sustainability identify 95 sociotechnical barriers and 50 risks hindering progress in the high-stakes buildings sector. The research highlights complex interplay between economic, political, social, and behavioral factors driving inefficiencies and costs.
Researchers found that rats contributed significantly to Rapa Nui's deforestation by consuming palm nuts, preventing trees from regrowing. The islanders cleared land for agriculture and used slash-and-burn practices, but the slow-growing palm trees made them vulnerable to rat predation.
A study published in npj Ocean Sustainability reveals that traditional Hawaiian fishponds (loko iʻa) effectively shield fish populations from the negative impacts of climate change. The research found that loko iʻa fish populations were more resilient to rising water temperatures than those in surrounding estuaries.
This online talk showcases an innovative method of repurposing industrial effluents to enrich biochar, creating a sustainable circular economy in real-world farming. Biochar researcher Prof. Salah Jellali shares his insights on upgrading plain biochar into a smart fertilizer.
The smart bamboo glass exhibits record tensile strength, flexibility, and impact toughness while retaining high visible-light transmission. Annual HVAC savings range from 1.6% to 5.58%, reducing global-warming potential by 35% and human-toxicity indicators by 40-60%.
Researchers at Hosei University developed a hydroponic cultivation system using LED lighting to produce high-quality edamame consistently throughout the year. The nutrient film technique (NFT) method resulted in higher yields, better nutritional value, and increased productivity compared to traditional open-field cultivation.
Researchers explore using municipal solid waste as a low-emission, cost-effective feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80-90%. The study suggests that adopting municipal solid waste-based jet fuels could save airlines money under carbon pricing systems.
Researchers demonstrate that bacteria can produce fabric and dye it in every color of the rainbow using a single vat. The approach uses bacterial cellulose as a potential alternative to petroleum-based fibers, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental harm. The developed method yields vibrant colors that survive washing and h...
Researchers have developed a dynamic display technology that dissipates heat instead of generating it when the color changes, cooling the surface underneath. The passive cooling mechanism can be used on building billboards to show ads and help cool buildings' interiors.
The researchers developed a chromatic filtration strategy to narrow the emission spectrum of mechanoluminescent materials, resulting in high spectral resolution and reduced noise. The new technology has significant potential for applications such as wearable sensors and healthcare motion monitoring.
Rice University researchers outline emerging solutions to make graphite production cleaner and more resilient, including synthetic graphite from renewable sources. The study emphasizes the critical role of graphite in energy storage technologies and the need for sustainable supply chain management.
The European Research Council (ERC) has awarded an €8.33 million Synergy Grant to a five-year project led by Professors Jun Borras, Esteve Corbera, Ian Scoones, and Anna Tsing. The 'Land and Life in the Anthropocene' project aims to reshape landscapes for more-than-human life through innovative framework and connected approaches.
The ITU delegation will work with governments and private-sector leaders to leverage digital transformation as a catalyst for climate solutions. The Green Digital Action initiative aims to address the sector's environmental impact through practical tools and tangible results.
Scientists study ancient oyster populations to guide present-day restoration efforts. By analyzing shell size and breakage, researchers can interpret how intensively communities harvested oysters, shedding light on the challenges of rebuilding depleted reef ecosystems.
Bamboo is being explored as a promising material for reducing plastic waste due to its fast growth rate, renewable nature, and extensive distribution. Despite challenges, bamboo-based products have improved performance profiles and are gaining popularity worldwide.
The University of Copenhagen has launched a new AI Package to strengthen its research in artificial intelligence and make it more accessible to society. The package aims to bring together various initiatives and research centers across the university to develop AI in a responsible, sustainable, and democratic way.
A new study from North Carolina State University finds that bamboo tissue paper produced in China has a significant carbon footprint, comparable to or even higher than traditional tissue made from wood. The researchers found that the technology used to create hygiene tissue paper is more important than the type of fiber it's made from.
Researchers at Yonsei University have developed a groundbreaking fluoride-based solid electrolyte that enables all-solid-state batteries to operate beyond 5 volts safely. The innovation allows spinel cathodes to operate efficiently and retain over 75% capacity after 500 cycles.
Researchers from Chiba University developed an AI-based spatial framework to identify areas with limited vertical greening, revealing uneven distribution and high-priority zones for improvement. The framework provides a citywide map of vertical greenery, aiming to enhance cooling, biodiversity, and urban resilience.
Researchers have discovered a way to increase the energy state of iron in materials, enabling the creation of higher-voltage batteries. The breakthrough could also aid the development of superconductors and magnetism applications.
Researchers have discovered that extended periods of high stress in wheat crops can lead to iron deficiency and stunted growth. By reducing iron deficiency with a synthetic organic molecule called PDMA, plants are able to improve photosynthesis and biomass under heat stress conditions.
A new study reveals the deep connection between wildlife trafficking and other serious crimes, including arms dealing and human smuggling. By mapping these intersections, researchers can focus on key players driving global networks, boosting anti-trafficking interventions.
The SOLO project aims to identify knowledge gaps and propose novel approaches for the Soil Mission. Recent stakeholders' meeting in Alentejo, Portugal, discussed current projects and future directions.
A food tax shift could reduce premature deaths and disease by 700 annually and 700,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in Sweden. The study shows that selective taxes on unhealthy foods can lead to healthier diets without increasing the average price of groceries.
Prof. Salah Jellali will present his pioneering work on nutrient-enriched biochar, a sustainable solution transforming agricultural residues into powerful eco-fertilizers. His innovation leverages wastewater and mineral waste streams to create high-performance soil enhancers improving crop yields while closing resource loops.
Researchers develop food-safe, natural film using edible fungus that blocks water, oil and grease absorption on various materials. The film, grown on common materials such as paper, denim and polyester felt, reveals its potential to replace single-use plastics with sustainable, natural materials.
A new study by Dr. Hannah Alexis Melquiades Asilo and her team at the University of the Philippines Tacloban College reveals that mangroves store up to four times more carbon per hectare than tropical rainforests, challenging reforestation assumptions and highlighting the importance of afforestation strategies.
Researchers at Boston College have identified a novel bacterium that can thrive on spent battery waste, producing protons capable of leaching electrode materials. The bacteria, Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, also shows promise in recycling Li-Ion battery cathode materials using iron and stainless steel as food sources.
Researchers developed a gravity-driven biochar microreactor from rattan, achieving ultrahigh flux and complete degradation of common pollutants. The system activated peroxymonosulfate through a non-radical pathway, with boundary-like defects as primary active sites.
Scientists at the University of Surrey have discovered a simple way to boost sodium-ion battery performance by leaving water in key component. The new material, nanostructured sodium vanadate hydrate, showed significant improvements in charge storage, charging speed, and stability, even in saltwater.
The FAU Queen Conch Lab has developed mobile lab hatcheries to restore threatened Caribbean queen conch populations and promote sustainable seafood production. These self-contained units bring advanced aquaculture capabilities to coastal communities, supporting education, employment, and food security.
Researchers have developed a calculation method enabling fair comparisons of energy consumption between pulp and paper companies, with potential to reduce fossil fuel usage and release raw materials. The new methodology could contribute to increased efficiency and a changed approach to energy audits.
The report highlights ten breakthrough innovations that can help society operate within planetary boundaries and foster a more sustainable relationship with Earth's systems. These technologies offer scalable solutions to cut emissions, regenerate natural systems, and enhance resilience across food, water, energy, and infrastructure.
Researchers developed a technology to detach cells from surfaces on demand, reducing waste and improving workflow in industrial processes. The system uses electrochemically generated bubbles to separate cells without damaging them, paving the way for more efficient CO2 absorption and lifesaving cell therapies.
Researchers found that strong supernatural belief systems can effectively reduce environmental harm by encouraging restraint and promoting sustainable relationships between humans and nature. The study's model showed that supernatural punishments are effective when the fear of punishment outweighs short-term gains and is not too extreme.
Researchers at Seoul National University have developed a groundbreaking thermal management technology that enables selective cooling and heating functions using a single material and process, reducing energy consumption by up to 26.5%.
A meta-analysis of 100 studies across psychology, sociology, economics, and engineering found that positive attitudes toward conserving electricity are key to saving energy. Individuals who think others expect them to conserve power and have pro-environmental habits tend to save more energy.
The University of Michigan's Center for Sustainable Systems has released its 2025 collection of factsheets, covering topics like energy, water, climate change, and transportation. The new edition includes two all-new sheets on artificial intelligence and the Great Lakes, with information gathered from over 1,270 reputable sources.
A new approach called Streamlined Life Cycle Assessment (SLCA) uses AI, 3D modeling, and secondary databases to assess a product's environmental footprint. SLCA cuts the time required for assessments from months to just one week, while maintaining accuracy.
Researchers have identified key barriers to safely extending the life of solar panels and decreasing waste. One major challenge is the low cost of new panels undercutting the resale market for used systems.
A new journal, Energy & Environment Nexus, calls for a science-based approach to balancing economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection. The journal introduces the concept of the 'Energy and Environment Nexus', emphasizing the interdependence of energy, society, and the environment.
The Chevron Energy Graduate Fellowships support research advancing low-carbon technologies and reducing emissions, with the 2025-26 cohort addressing pressing energy challenges in fields like storage, carbon capture and resilient infrastructure.
An AI-driven irrigation management system developed by Texas A&M University students uses soil sensors, crop data, and weather forecasts to optimize watering. The system conserves water, reduces costs, and increases crop yields, addressing global issues of water scarcity and inequity.
A new study by ESMT Berlin researchers finds that high ESG ratings in the Gulf region do not necessarily lead to superior financial performance. Instead, financially strong companies drive ESG improvements. The analysis also shows that ESG scores are shaped more by state-led policy and institutional commitments than market forces.