Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology develop method to treat cigarette butts using pyrolysis, producing oil, char, and gas with real applications in fertilizers, wastewater treatment, energy storage, and biofuels. The process reduces biodiesel production costs by adding triacetin-rich oil as an additive.
SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalJournal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023
A team of researchers from Northwestern University and the University of Pittsburgh has received a $600K NSF Award to explore novel learning-enabled cyber-physical systems (LE-CPSs) for building flexibility into hardware. This could lead to extended device lifespan, reduced e-waste, and improved sustainability.
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
A team of international scientists cautions that reliance on mechanical cleanup devices to address plastic pollution is ineffective and may even harm marine life. They argue that reducing plastic production and consumption is the most cost-effective way to prevent further pollution.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalOne Earth·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 9, 2023
Researchers from NTU Singapore and ETH Zurich have developed a clean and sustainable material to build zero-waste fuel cells using chicken feathers. The membrane, made from protein amyloid fibrils, conducts protons and reduces carbon emissions from burning unwanted chicken feathers.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 20, 2023
Researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a cellulose-based thickener to reduce environmental risks associated with liquefied stabilized soil. The thickener prevents bleeding, loss of fine particles, and unwanted settling, while maintaining soil strength.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalCase Studies in Construction Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2023
Researchers found elevated soil lead levels in city parks that previously housed garbage incinerators and waste ash, with some levels exceeding EPA's threshold. The study provides insights into potential lead exposures for park visitors.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateSep 12, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A new study by Duke University found that urban parks built on former waste incineration sites can still contain high levels of lead in their surface soils, posing potential health risks to children. The research highlights the need for increased monitoring and mapping of contaminated soil hotspots across hundreds of cities.
SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateSep 11, 2023
Scientists at Nanyang Technological University have developed a sustainable method to produce lactic acid using discarded jackfruit seeds. The new process is cheaper and more efficient, reducing waste and environmental impact while addressing rising production costs.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023
The UK fashion and textile industry is set for a significant boost with a £6 million investment in sustainability research. The initiative aims to help the sector adopt more sustainable practices, reducing its environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have developed a new way to recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic using electricity and chemical reactions. In small-scale lab experiments, PET was broken down into its basic building blocks, which can be recovered and potentially reused to make new plastic bottles.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalChem Catalysis·DateJul 5, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A new recycling method for carbon and glass fibre composites has been developed by researchers at the University of Sydney, which can reduce energy use by 70% and preserve mechanical properties. The approach ensures increased material recovery and improved energy efficiency compared to previous methods.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalComposites Part B Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a process to convert waste PVC into a wax-based adhesive, which can replace traditional adhesives in the flooring industry. The new adhesive avoids volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and has potential applications in various construction sectors.
A multidisciplinary team of scientists conducted a comprehensive study to understand the sources and sinks of plastic debris in the Southern North Sea. Local citizen scientists played a crucial role in tracking the distribution pathways of plastic particles, revealing that two-thirds were washed ashore within 25km of their release site.
SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023
Researchers found both dryer types produce microfiber pollution, including water pollution from lint traps. Simple remedy is to clean lint filters and dispose of collected fibers as dry waste to reduce microfiber release.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Scientists have rebuilt the complex nanomachine in the laboratory that starts autophagy, revealing its sophisticated cellular mechanism. The study's findings could help develop future drugs to treat diseases based on a faulty autophagy process.
SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2023
A new camera technology developed by Aarhus University and Newtec Engineering A/S aims to make it easier to recycle plastic materials. The technology uses hyperspectral imaging to analyze the chemical composition of plastic waste, allowing for the removal of unwanted additives that may be banned or harmful.
Researchers found that disposable diaper waste can replace up to 8% of sand in concrete and mortar used to build a single-story house, reducing construction costs. The study suggests using this unconventional material for low-cost housing in low- and middle-income countries.
SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 18, 2023
A study by the University of Bonn found that paper-based packaging received significantly better environmental scores than bioplastics, but respondents were skeptical about its practicality. Meanwhile, conventional plastic packaging scored worst on eco-friendliness.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalFood Quality and Preference·TypeSurvey·DateMay 15, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers used computer modeling to simulate the movement of lightweight plastic particles in the Mediterranean Sea. Their results suggest that these particles can drift up to 175 miles laterally from their point of origin before sinking. This discovery highlights the potential for long-distance interactions between plastic waste and...
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 8, 2023
A community science survey reveals an abundance of floating sea creatures in the North Pacific Garbage Patch, including jellyfish, snails, and crustaceans. The study found a positive correlation between plastic waste and three groups of sea creatures, highlighting the complex relationships within this ecosystem.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 4, 2023
A University of Gothenburg study reveals that cigarette filters contain thousands of toxic chemicals and microplastic fibers, which are lethal to aquatic larvae. The researchers urge a complete ban on filters to prevent hazardous waste from entering the environment.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalMicroplastics and Nanoplastics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2023
A researcher at OSU-Cascades is developing an AI-powered smart compost bin that tracks household food waste. The device prompts users to describe deposited items, transcribing notes with automatic speech recognition and collecting 3-D images and sensor measurements.
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
The study found that 68% of carbon contributions come from single-use items, with production and waste disposal contributing significantly. Reusable alternatives for products like gowns, drapes, and instrument table drapes can reduce carbon footprint by one third.
SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateApr 14, 2023
The latest issue of PLOS Biology features a special collection on biology-based solutions to reduce plastic pollution, carbon dioxide emissions, and produce food or energy more sustainably. Insect enzymes may degrade plastic waste, while photosynthetic algae can capture CO2 produced by industrial applications.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2023
Researchers at Ritsumeikan University have made a breakthrough in understanding how macrophages recognize microplastics, discovering an interaction between aromatic rings that drives this process. The study suggests that while microplastics may not induce acute inflammation, chronic exposure could lead to autoimmune diseases.
SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A new protein-based coating developed by Rice University researchers has the potential to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, reducing food waste and spoilage. The coating, made from surplus eggs, was shown to double the shelf life of avocados and bananas in earlier research.
A research team created bioplastic diffraction gratings from chitosan extracted from crab shells, enabling the production of portable and disposable spectrometers. The biodegradable gratings could improve sustainability in optical manufacturing and reduce seafood waste.
North Carolina State University researchers have found a way to separate blended cotton and polyester fabric using enzymes, which could lead to more efficient recycling of the fabric's component materials. The process requires multiple steps, but can effectively separate cotton from polyester in under 48 hours.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalResources Environment and Sustainability·DateMar 20, 2023
Researchers are developing a deep learning model to predict where waste is accumulating in cities and how often public bins should be cleared. This can help councils optimise their waste management services, schedule bin clearances and relocate rarely used bins.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2023
Scientists at Rice University have developed a new technique using the 'flash Joule' method to transform plastic waste into high-value carbon nanotubes and hybrid nanomaterials. This process is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional methods, making it a promising solution for recycling plastic waste.
SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A new computational system detects 966 waste sites in Southeast Asia, nearly three times the number of publicly recorded sites, highlighting the need for better waste management policies. The system also reveals that 20% of detected sites are found near waterways, spilling into rivers and eventually reaching oceans.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 18, 2023
A new framework identifies barriers and context-specific measures for plastic use and disposal, guiding policymakers in selecting effective intervention measures. The framework has been tested in Kyoto City, revealing potential desirable behavioral changes, critical barriers, and corresponding intervention measures.
SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeSurvey·DateJan 17, 2023
A new UW-led report emphasizes the unequal burden of marine plastic pollution on different communities, particularly in developing countries. The study calls for a more equitable approach to address the issue, focusing on plastics production rather than waste management.
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A new study from the University of Portsmouth explores how to improve sustainable disposal of electronic waste. Researchers found that using metaphorical language, such as comparing battery pollution to Olympic swimming pools, increased recycling rates among consumers.
SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2022
Researchers developed a biodegradable material that decomposes in weeks to months, replacing toxic metal components of electronic devices. The starch-based polymer uses natural enzymes and has the right properties for sensors, offering an alternative to complex polymers and reducing e-waste.
SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022
A joint research project by Toyohashi University of Technology found that 78% of Jakarta's river waste is plastic, with PET bottles and bags accounting for over half. The study estimated a daily discharge rate of 7.7-12.6 grams per person, highlighting the need for improved waste management in Indonesia.
SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2022
Researchers analyzed 843 beach surveys to find that certain beaches and areas accumulate litter in predictable patterns. The study found that beaches with more organic flotsam tend to have more litter, and that litter on the outer coast shows a strong seasonal pattern.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2022
A circular economy model offers a new chance for innovation, integrating natural ecosystems, businesses, and public-private-partnership to reduce environmental pressure. The transition to circular economy utilizes the potential of waste by increasing recycling and reuse.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCircular Economy·DateAug 17, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers developed a lifecycle assessment-based framework to manage offshore oil spill cleanup waste. The study suggests combining centrifugation and landfilling as the most suitable remediation approach for low-impact spills.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 17, 2022
Researchers found that sponges release mucus to unclog their internal filter systems, which also serves as a food source for fish. The study published in Current Biology highlights the unique adaptation of sponges to manage their waste and environment.
A study in Macao explores the potential for urban mining, analyzing building material stock-flow process and future trends. The research establishes a dynamic MFA model to clarify driving forces of urban building resources, providing data support for recycling and waste management.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCircular Economy·DateMay 31, 2022
Researchers at Tsinghua University Press have developed a novel solution to recycle excavated soil and rock into construction products through sintering utilization. The study found that using this method can save nearly 270 million yuan in disposal costs while meeting environmental standards.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCircular Economy·DateMay 25, 2022
A team of scientists has developed a method to extract precious metals like gold and platinum-group metals from electronic waste using the Picasso pigment, Prussian blue. This technique shows promise in improving the recycling of valuable metals from nuclear and electronic wastes.
SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
The NTU team has developed a process using industrial carbide sludge and urea to create biocement, which can strengthen soil, reduce water seepage, and even repair rock carvings. The biocement-making process generates fewer carbon emissions and requires less energy compared to traditional cement production methods.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJournal of Environmental Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2022
Researchers found that maintaining hard water reduces zinc accumulation and oxidative stress in goldfish, mitigating toxic effects. This study provides an eco-friendly approach to address aquatic ecosystem pollution caused by heavy metal contamination.
SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalAntioxidants·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2022
Researchers at Washington State University found that incorporating old mask materials into cement mixtures creates stronger, more durable concrete. The mixture is 47% stronger than commonly used cement after a month of curing.
SourceWashington State University·JournalMaterials Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2022
Scientists have proposed a new two-step methodology to eliminate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) from the environment. The approach involves chemical functionalization, replacing chlorine atoms with hydroxyl groups, followed by thermal destruction at lower temperatures than traditional incineration methods.
SourceUral Federal University·JournalChemical Papers·DateMar 28, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Researchers from NTU Singapore and Waseda University found that fermented soybean waste improves fat metabolism and mitigates the effects of diet-induced obesity. The study, published in Metabolites, showed that mice fed fermented okara gained less body mass and had lower levels of fat and cholesterol.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalMetabolites·DateMar 22, 2022
Researchers at São Paulo State University have developed an edible bioplastic with a tensile strength comparable to petroleum-based plastics. The material is made from gelatin, clay and a nanoemulsion of black pepper essential oil, extending shelf life and preventing microbial contamination.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPolymers·DateMar 9, 2022
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provide valuable insights on managing C&D waste and reducing carbon emissions in building refurbishment projects. By upcycling generated waste, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced, with a potential reduction of around 40% compared to traditional practices.
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022
Researchers from Tohoku University have developed a sustainable alternative to rare metals for metal-air battery catalysts, utilizing sea pineapple shells and blood waste. The new method produces high-quality carbon with electrical performances similar to that of rare metals.
SourceTohoku University·JournalScience and Technology of Advanced Materials·DateFeb 9, 2022
Researchers in California discovered that most trash items come from local sources, with nearly 60% of collected materials being plastic. The study suggests that cities can address the issue through bans on frequent litterers and increased street sweeping to prevent reoccurring litter.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateFeb 8, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the generation of medical waste, with daily output surging from 200 tons to over 29,000 tons in September 2020. The study also highlights the need to update emergency medical waste treatment strategies and manage personal protective equipment waste effectively.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 26, 2022
A new open-source tool called SwolfPy helps solid waste systems achieve environmental goals by assessing various options in one place. The tool identifies the range of best possible options for users, depending on their priorities.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 20, 2022
A new study reveals that circular waste management systems can effectively reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants, with the potential to eliminate open burning of waste by 2050. The researchers estimate that this could account for almost a quarter of global methane emissions.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2022
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a new camera technology that can separate plastics based on their chemical composition. The technology uses hyperspectral cameras and machine learning to identify 12 types of plastics, including PE, PP, PET, and others, making it possible for more accurate recycling.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a new use for e-waste plastics by repurposing them as an alternative to laboratory cell culture containers. The team found that over 95% of human stem cells seeded on e-waste plastics remained healthy after a week, comparable to cells grown on conventional plates.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateDec 13, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Black soldier fly larvae thrive in dense groups when given the right amount of airflow, reducing the risk of overheating. The research, published in Frontiers in Physics, aims to make these protein-rich insects more readily available as recyclers of food waste, which totals 1.3 billion tons per year.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Physics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021
Researchers examine how heat affects salt and brine in underground tests to refine computer models and inform policymakers about spent nuclear fuel disposal. The understanding gained will help assess the viability of salt beds as a safe storage option for radioactive waste.
At COP26, anaesthesia providers agree to reduce their environmental impact by implementing seven principles: prioritizing patient safety, supporting global sustainability, and monitoring healthcare systems. The goal is to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 while minimizing material resources and financial investment.