Research on more sustainable materials and systems. Covers nature-inspired manufacturing, resource disparities, mood-supporting materials, and low-carbon concrete.
A new study suggests adjusting VAT rates on food groups based on health and environmental impacts could lead to healthier diets, reducing cases of diet-related diseases. The proposal aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions and generate significant revenue for governments.
A £1 million grant-funded project aims to advance production of next-generation, paper-based packaging for liquids. Researchers will develop novel coating processes, mechanistic modelling, computer vision, and AI to create 'dry' spray coatings that are food-safe, degradable, and environmentally friendly.
A team of researchers recommends incorporating principles like collective benefit and ethical governance into ecological data practices to align with existing data infrastructures. They suggest establishing collaborative relationships with Indigenous rights holders and exploring how data can be aligned with Indigenous expertise and wor...
A new study reveals that marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef supply nearly half of the region's coral trout catch, contributing significantly to sustainable fishery yields. The protected areas also ensure a higher reproductive output and more resilient coral reef ecosystems.
Nanomaterials are being studied for their potential in combating marine oil spills, with promising results showing improved removal efficiency and reduced toxicity. The researchers emphasize the need for eco-friendly and sustainable approaches to minimize environmental risks.
A new Stanford study suggests refining how we assess natural carbon storage strategies to ensure the technology lives up to its potential as a climate change solution. The researchers propose a two-step evaluation process to unlock additional project value and improve data for predictive modeling.
Farmers in African mountains reported increased temperatures, reduced fog, and changes in rainfall patterns, leading to lower crop yields, livestock production, and human health concerns.
Researchers found that sustainability certificates improve cocoa yield and income for small-scale producers, but have no effect on biodiversity in plantations. The study suggests that further biodiversity conservation measures are needed to achieve tangible environmental benefits.
Researchers at the University of Surrey have discovered a unique mix of lipids in polar bear fur that drastically reduces ice adhesion, paving the way for safer and more sustainable anti-freezing solutions. The study found that specific lipids, such as cholesterol and diacylglycerols, exhibit low adsorption energies on ice.
The Ecological Society of America's new Open Access journal, Earth Stewardship, fosters a broad foundation for Earth stewardship through applied and theoretical research. The journal invites submissions from diverse fields and promotes inclusive research to reshape our relationship with the environment.
A new study from DTU National Food Institute finds that temperature and light intensity play a crucial role in the yield of various nutrients produced by the microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica. The research suggests a two-stage cultivation process to optimize nutrient production, paving the way for sustainable food production.
A £2 million project, led by Anglia Ruskin University, is working to identify vulnerabilities in the UK's food system and prioritize areas for improvement. The project will analyze potential pathways leading to civil unrest and work with stakeholders to build resilience and address early-stage problems.
The University of Bath's RENEW research center has published a manifesto on regenerative design and engineering to address the climate crisis. The guidebook provides a framework for creating 'Net Positive' buildings, technologies, and systems that renew unity with nature.
Researchers developed an interactive tool to compare the efficiency of four sustainable propulsion systems: e-SAF, battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and hydrogen combustion. The tool considers factors like renewable electricity required, sustainability, and cost. It aims to provide a strategy for thinking about sustainable aviation...
The Tule River Tribe is facing mounting environmental hazards such as wildfire, drought, and flooding. A new study sheds light on how a range of strategies can address these compounding hazards and achieve the community's goals to strengthen its physical, mental, spiritual, and environmental health.
Researchers suggest that understanding the science behind umami and koku could make plant-based eating more palatable. The authors reveal that key components of umami include free glutamate and nucleotides, while koku is related to small pieces of proteins called dipeptides and tripeptides.
A new study finds that battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs) have improved significantly in reliability over the years, matching the lifespans of traditional cars and vans with internal combustion engines. BEVs now have an average lifespan of 18.4 years and can travel up to 124,000 miles.
Sockeye salmon raised through land-based aquaculture have reached their shipping stage, marking a significant leap toward the world's first business-based commercial farming of this species. The project's success is attributed to the combination of Okayama University of Science's expertise and NTT East Japan's ICT solutions.
The PREPSOIL project highlights the importance of soil literacy among young people, equipping educators with inspiration and ideas to foster essential knowledge. The upcoming webinar will bridge the gap between young citizens and soil health, empowering the next generation to take informed actions.
A new project, GP4Streets, provides tailored 'greening prescriptions' for UK streets to adapt to local climate challenges. Communities will be equipped with monitoring tools and DIY greening kits to improve air quality, temperature, and biodiversity.
Furan fatty acids have been found to exist in all samples of rubber tree latex, with varying concentrations. The study identifies specific genotypes with high FuFA content, offering potential for enhanced economic value and sustainability.
Researchers at Seoul National University of Science & Technology have made a breakthrough discovery in the catalytic recycling of polyolefins, enhancing conversion rates with the addition of water. The study reveals improved process efficiency, extended catalyst lifespan, and reduced operational costs.
A team from the Research Institute for Sustainability finds that supply structure changes, geopolitical competition, and decarbonization drive fertiliser market shifts. To address these challenges, coordinated measures are needed, including promoting sustainable fertiliser management practices and reducing synthetic fertiliser use.
The article reveals that larger EVs are weighing more than conventional cars and require greater critical minerals to produce, delaying efforts to decarbonize the electricity grid. The growing size of EVs is also making waste processing and recycling hazardous
A Politecnico study proposes a global model that optimizes agricultural and water resources, making the EAT-Lancet diet a sustainable possibility. The model suggests crop redistribution and trade flow improvements could reduce global cropland by 37-40% and irrigation water use by 78%.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
Researchers developed a novel bioconversion system using mealworm and black soldier fly larvae to transform plastic waste into valuable by-products, including biochar and compost. The system has potential for large-scale adoption in sustainable waste management industries.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction found that US homeowners take proactive steps to protect their properties before and after hurricanes, but often fall short due to inadequate regulations. The study's methodology provides a framework for future research on incentivizing comprehensive prote...
The Ecological Peace Corridors concept aims to connect fragmented protected areas across international borders, promoting cooperation and minimizing disputes over resources. By leveraging artificial intelligence and zoning systems, these corridors could foster peacebuilding before conflicts escalate or in post-conflict efforts.
Researchers developed a new data assimilation algorithm using the LETKF technique to enhance global precipitation estimates. The model improved accuracy and computational efficiency, making it suitable for large-scale applications, particularly in mountainous regions.
A collaborative project between ASU and industry partners aims to develop a regional Direct Air Capture Hub in the Four Corners area, with the goal of removing at least 1 million metric tons of CO2 from the atmosphere each year. The project will also create jobs, stimulate local economies, and support climate change mitigation efforts.
A University of Houston study found that different genotypes of hemp have unique microbial communities that impact CBD production and fiber quality. The research, published in Nature, highlights the potential for microbiome diversity to inform more sustainable farming practices.
Researchers from the University of Guelph studied plant-based proteins and their interaction with fat matrices to improve the quality of vegan cheeses. They found that a blend of pea protein, sunflower oil, and coconut oil created a cheese with a firm texture and lower saturated fat content.
The Consumer Food Insights Report finds a 9.5% out-of-stock rate for foods in 2024, down from 12.3% in 2023 and 19.3% in 2022. Consumers are motivated to improve their health through diet changes, with two-thirds of those making resolutions doing so for health reasons.
The study reveals five groups of barriers reinforcing each other, including corporate dominance and institutional shortcomings. A comprehensive framework is proposed to address these systemic challenges, emphasizing the importance of integrated political responses and context-sensitive solutions.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials have developed a novel method to create lightweight, nanostructured porous martensitic alloys by harnessing dealloying and alloying processes. The approach enables CO2-free and energy-saving production of high-strength materials.
Climate change advocate Kelley T. Lê argues that schools are crucial in mobilizing a global response to the climate crisis. Her new book provides practical tools to equip teachers with the knowledge to teach climate science and inspire students to take action.
MIT engineers developed a nanofiltration process to capture aluminum ions from cryolite waste, reducing hazardous waste and improving efficiency. The membrane selectively captured over 99% of aluminum ions, enabling the recovery of aluminum and reducing the need for new mining.
The Arkansas Clean Plant Center is leading a global effort to remove over 120 'phantom agents' from pathogen regulatory lists. These outdated agents impede access to clean plant materials, hindering crop production and food security. The center's efforts aim to streamline global germplasm exchange using modern molecular techniques.
A pioneering study at Guildford's Sandfield Primary School demonstrates the benefits of protective green infrastructure in reducing particle pollution levels and traffic-related noise. The 'living school gate' installation showed a nearly one-third reduction in air pollution, as well as a 5-decibel decrease in distracting traffic noise.
Researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have pioneered the use of metamaterials to replicate the texture and structure of traditional meat. Their novel approach enables the mass production of whole cuts of meat at a cost of $9 per kilogram, making sustainable protein alternatives more accessible.
A new study has developed a sustainable approach for fully inkjet-printed, eco-friendly e-textiles that are both biodegradable and durable. The researchers used a textile called Tencel and conductive materials like graphene and PEDOT: PSS to create the fabric.
A new study reveals a significant overlap between high-priority conservation habitats and areas suitable for large-scale solar energy development in the arid Southwest. The research emphasizes the urgent need for strategies that balance renewable energy growth with conservation priorities.
Researchers estimate that human-made products store around 400 million tons of fossil carbon annually, equivalent to 9% of extracted fossil carbon. Recycling and increasing product lifetime can help reduce waste streams, while enacting policies to minimize landfill discharge is crucial.
A recent University of New Hampshire study gauges public opinion on three fare policies aimed at reducing emissions. The standard policy, where all passengers pay a uniform price, is the most accepted approach, while nearly 60% express concerns about weight-based policies citing potential fairness issues and discrimination.
A new UCL Institute of Health Equity report emphasizes the crucial role of housing in determining long-term health and longevity. It proposes a new way forward for the property sector and national governments to focus on health, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability in home building and maintenance.
Engineered yeast cells can form cooperative groups that perform complex tasks and self-regulate in response to external signals. This approach enables precise production of therapeutic compounds, reducing waste and increasing treatment efficacy.
Researchers from Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) conducted a comprehensive material flow analysis of wood in Switzerland to shed light on its availability and usage. The study found that recycling rate for wood is around 8% compared to 70% for paper, highlighting the need for sustainable use.
Researchers found that international trade has caused over 90% of biodiversity loss in tropical regions due to agricultural land conversion. The study tracked land use changes between 1995 and 2022, revealing a significant impact on species loss in countries such as Brazil, Indonesia, and Madagascar.
The authors introduce advanced methodologies for integrating maintenance strategies and structural health monitoring to extend infrastructure service life. Topics include data-driven decision-making, multi-objective optimization, cost-benefit analysis, and the role of data analytics in managing uncertainties.
CEOs innovate based on stock recommendations and analyst feedback, which can foster explorative activities like R&D. However, many sacrifice long-term sustainability for immediate returns, incentivized by their compensation packages.
A global analysis suggests that recycling human and livestock excreta can contribute substantially to meeting the nutrient supply for all crops worldwide. Recycling these nutrients could reduce global net imports of mineral fertilizers by 41% for nitrogen, 3% for phosphorus, and 36% for potassium.
A group of international scientists is urging the European Commission to implement protective measures for subterranean ecosystems, which store 97% of the world's drinking water and harbor unique biodiversity. Regular surveys of subterranean fauna can reveal the health of these ecosystems, which are sensitive to contaminants.
Researchers analyzed financial and environmental data from 8,547 companies across 34 countries, revealing that stronger environmental engagement leads to better financial outcomes. Companies with superior environmental performance demonstrate better financial results and attract greater interest from investors.
A new doctoral dissertation examines how social ventures can adapt their business models to achieve international growth while maintaining their commitment to sustainability. The research offers practical guidance for policymakers, investors, and practitioners aiming to promote sustainable international business growth.
A new study reveals that US adults who choose not to eat red meat are more concerned with environmental impacts than health risks. The survey of over 7,500 adults found that demographics such as age, education level, and income also played a role in red meat consumption.
The University of North Florida has been awarded a nearly $800,000 grant from the National Park Service to ramp up coastline restoration efforts in Florida and Georgia. The project will utilize pervious oyster shell habitat (POSH units) to create living shorelines that help restore coastal ecosystems.
Researchers found that burned rice hulls can provide a nearly doubling of energy density in typical lithium-ion or sodium-ion batteries. The process is more sustainable than producing graphite from biomass, which requires heating to high temperatures and produces significant CO2 emissions.
Scientists emphasize the need for gene editing and plant domestication to protect food supplies due to the climate crisis. Researchers propose two strategies: introducing genes that support resistance to environmental stress into existing crops or domesticate wild plants with lower yields but higher resilience.
A new study assesses the sustainability of varying Pacific walrus harvest rates under different climate and human disturbance scenarios. The research finds that current harvest levels are within a sustainable range if assessed regularly and adjusted accordingly.