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Optimizing the Mitigation of Heavy Metal Pollution in Biochar-treated Soils with Machine Learning

Researchers used machine learning to predict the most important factors underlying heavy metal pollution remediation in biochar-treated soils. Biochar nitrogen content and application rate were found to be the most crucial features in determining HM immobilization, with soil properties also playing a significant role.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 29, 2022

Converting plastic waste into porous carbon for capturing carbon dioxide

A team of researchers has found that plastic waste-derived porous materials can adsorb CO2 from flue gas, reducing plastic pollution and emissions. The study suggests that these materials could be used in industrial-scale applications, making them a promising alternative to conventional CO2 capture technologies.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022
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.

Reducing carbon emissions of C&D waste in building refurbishment

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

Perfecting the EV battery recycling process

A new study from Chalmers University of Technology outlines an optimized recycling process for electric vehicle batteries, reducing thermal treatment times to just 30 minutes and operating at room temperature. This process can increase the efficiency of metal recovery, lower environmental impacts, and reduce costs.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalWaste Management·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Who’s responsible for roadside rubbish?

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Satellites and light reflections help spot coastal plastic waste

Researchers have developed a method to detect tiny plastic scraps on remote beaches using satellite technology. This innovation enables the tracking of plastics within satellite images, allowing for more frequent and reliable observations.

SourceRMIT University·JournalRemote Sensing·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

New modeling tools to help solid-waste systems reach environmental goals

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

E-waste recycling emits emerging synthetic antioxidants

Researchers detected emerging synthetic antioxidants in e-waste recycling dust, including hindered phenol and sulfur antioxidants. The study highlights the need for further research on their environmental behaviors and toxicities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateDec 15, 2021
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.

Plastic-degrading enzymes increasing in correlation with pollution

A study found a strong correlation between the number of microbial enzymes that can degrade plastic and local levels of plastic pollution. Researchers analyzed environmental DNA samples from around the world and discovered over 30,000 enzyme homologues with potential to break down various types of plastics.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists give new lease of life to e-waste plastics

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

Anaerobic digestion: NMR, a fast and reliable method for assessing the gas production potential of organic waste

Researchers used NMR analysis to determine lipid content in organic waste, achieving higher accuracy and speed than Soxhlet method. The new technique is faster, more accurate, and environmentally friendly, paving the way for improved anaerobic digestion processes.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalWaste Management·DateDec 10, 2021

Four reasons why businesses won't adopt reusable packaging – and one way to address them all

A new study by Lancaster University identifies four major concerns that hinder the adoption of reusable packaging: affordability, digitalization challenges, regulatory hurdles, and data collection limitations. To address these concerns, researchers propose implementing a track and trace system using unique barcodes to enable businesses...

SourceLancaster University·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2021

From slurry to high-purity hydrogen

A new process for decentralized hydrogen production has been developed, using chemical-looping to produce high-purity hydrogen directly from biogas. The technology is now ready for commercial use and could make hydrogen production more competitive with other methods.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeCase study·DateOct 28, 2021
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.

COVID-19 and plastics: How the pandemic highlights the need for sustainable waste disposal

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated plastic pollution, with global waste generation increasing by twice the amount in 2020 compared to 2019. To address this issue, researchers advocate for a transition to novel sustainable practices and technologies, including biodegradable plastics and efficient recycling processes.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 7, 2021

From recycling to upcycling: A smarter way of dealing with plastic

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a clean and cost-effective way to upcycle used plastic into high-value products such as carbon nanotubes and clean liquid fuel. The two-step process converts organic waste into charcoal, which is then used as a catalyst to upcycle the plastic.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateSep 29, 2021

Working Smarter: Leveraging Machine Learning to Optimize CO2 Adsorption

A recent study employs machine learning to guide the design of novel materials for CO2 capture, identifying elemental composition and textural properties as key factors. The research team's findings suggest prioritizing adsorption parameters and surface area optimization for high CO2 adsorption efficiency.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Poorer communities hardest hit by toxic pollution incidents

Research from Lancaster University Management School found that potentially polluting firms choose locations based on local income demographics, leading to higher toxic releases in poorer areas. Firms reduce pollutant releases and increase waste management spending in higher-income areas.

SourceLancaster University·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateApr 29, 2021

New process breaks down biodegradable plastics faster

Scientists have invented a way to break down compostable plastics into small molecules within weeks using just heat and water. The new process involves embedding polyester-eating enzymes in the plastic, which then degrade it into lactic acid that can feed soil microbes.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 21, 2021
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.

Food waste: cities can make the difference

Cities are crucial actors in tackling food waste, launching effective policies and initiatives to address it. A new framework for assessing urban food waste policies and initiatives has been presented, highlighting the importance of integrated management and multi-actorial collaboration.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalResources·DateOct 19, 2020

New strategy for Canada's National Emergency Stockpile System

The National Emergency Stockpile System (NESS) in Canada struggles with expired supplies and ineffective inventory management, hindering timely procurement of PPE during the pandemic. Integrating NESS with commercial supply as a prime vendor is proposed as a potential solution to address these challenges.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 25, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Increasing number of grocery stores in some areas could reduce food waste up to 9%

Increasing grocery store density in certain areas can drastically decrease food waste, with optimal balance found at moderate store numbers. Studies show that modest increases in store density lead to substantial reductions in waste and lower grocery expenses for households.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateFeb 12, 2020

More grocery stores means less food waste -- and a big carbon cut

According to new research from Cornell University, opening more grocery stores can significantly reduce global warming by lowering food waste. The study found that even small increases in store density can have a high impact on reducing waste, with benefits comparable to converting thousands of cars to electric power.

SourceCornell University·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateFeb 3, 2020

Research reveals new plan to maximize rideshare availability by routing empty cars

Researchers develop a model to control empty car flow in geographic locations to optimize system-wide functionality, directing cars to different locations instead of waiting at the same spot. The algorithm calculates availability of empty cars when requested and finds new passengers quickly at destinations.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalOperations Research·DateSep 5, 2019

Growing pile of human and animal waste harbors threats, opportunities

The study estimates that by 2030, global fecal biomass could contain significant amounts of recoverable materials such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Animal waste from livestock outweighs human waste in many countries, posing a threat to public health.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 28, 2018

Why are young adults wasting so much food? Study looks at perceptions and food behaviors

A study found that young adults, particularly college students, are high food wasters due to a lack of learned food management behaviors. The study's findings suggest that environmental factors, such as access to refrigerators and cooking facilities, also play a role in their behavior.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAppetite·DateAug 22, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Energy recovery of urban waste

Researchers propose a two-stage system converting urban waste into gas under reducing conditions, then burning the gas efficiently in optimized equipment. This method minimizes toxic substance generation and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 300 kg per ton of treated waste.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalWaste Management·DateMay 2, 2018

Urgent need to address long-term health effects of extreme weather

Research highlights the need to understand long-term health effects of extreme weather, including chronic psychological impacts and vulnerability in local infrastructure. Coordinated programs are essential for recovery and rebuilding, with healthcare facilities needing to ensure they can withstand disruptions.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateNov 29, 2017

Storing mine waste -- safety is no accident UN finds

The United Nations report emphasizes the need for mining companies to prioritize safety over economic considerations in managing mine waste. The report's recommendations include improving tailings dam government regulation and exploring alternative solutions to building massive dams that can cause devastating environmental damage.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateNov 15, 2017

Predicting platelet usage in hospitals

A new statistical model uses hospital patient data to predict platelet transfusion needs, enabling optimal inventory management and reducing waste. The approach could save healthcare systems up to $80 million annually if adopted nationwide.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 9, 2017

You've got mail -- personality differences in email use

A new study by the British Psychological Society finds that people with different personality preferences experience varying degrees of stress when using email. Those with a big picture focus tend to check emails outside work hours, leading to increased stress levels.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·DateJan 6, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

A new method to help solve the problem of nuclear waste

Researchers have developed a simple process to create reactive actinide oxide nanocrystals, enabling the production of dense nuclear fuels and potential applications in waste management. This new approach could lead to more efficient and sustainable solutions for nuclear energy.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Chemistry·DateOct 27, 2016

How much plastic debris moves from land to sea?

Researchers estimate that around 8 million tons of plastic waste entered the world's oceans in 2010, with coastal countries generating close to 275 million tons. To prevent this number from increasing by a full order of magnitude over the next decade, nations need to improve their waste management practices and adopt better strategies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015
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.

The Lancet research series

The Lancet research series aims to increase value and reduce waste in biomedical research by setting clear priorities, improving research design and conduct, and enhancing regulation and management. The series proposes metrics for stakeholders to monitor the implementation of recommendations.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 8, 2014

Orchestrator of waste removal rescues cells that can't manage their trash

A recent study by Dr. Andrea Ballabio and colleagues discovered a key role for transcription factor EB (TFEB) in regulating lysosomal exocytosis, which can rescue cells from toxic waste buildup. The findings suggest an innovative approach to treating metabolic disorders associated with lysosomal storage diseases.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 1, 2011
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.

Vermicompost from pig manure grows healthy hibiscus

A recent study by the American Society for Horticultural Science found that vermicompost derived from pig manure can produce healthy hibiscus plants. The treatment resulted in improved plant growth and flower production, with an average increase of 58% in plant dry weight and 93% more flowers compared to conventional nursery crop inputs.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 10, 2009

Land Regeneration Network celebrates first year success

The Land Regeneration Network has achieved rapid membership growth, now standing at 1250 individuals from 890 companies and organisations across Wales. The network provides a high-quality information resource and business networking events, contributing to the growing demand for clear technical information in the environmental sector.

SourceCardiff University·DateMay 17, 2004
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Team identifies promising alternative to waste incineration

The Idaho National Laboratory has identified a promising alternative to waste incineration, known as the "Silver II" method. This process chemically oxidizes molecules at low temperatures and produces no dioxins or low-emission polyaromatic hydrocarbons.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·DateJan 3, 2002

New technology treats dairy wastes, odors

A new technology, InStreem™, has been successfully demonstrated at the George DeRuyter Dairy in Washington state, reducing odors and solids in waste lagoons. The system converts existing lagoons into extended aeration systems, establishing conditions favorable for both aerobic and anaerobic degradation of wastes.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateAug 29, 2001

Interdisciplinary Science Reviews: Radioactive Waste

The special issue of Interdisciplinary Science Reviews explores various aspects of radioactive waste disposal, including geological disposal, natural analogues, and engineered barriers. Leading experts from different fields share their knowledge to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex problem.

SourceInstitute of Materials·DateDec 16, 1998
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.