Pollution Control
Articles tagged with Pollution Control
A sticky solution to a pesky agricultural problem
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a water-based pesticide formulation that outperforms conventional methods in delivering agricultural pesticides. The new solution uses nanostructured cellulose nanocrystals to stabilize pesticide droplets without chemicals or solvents.
International forum highlights engineered biochar for carbon capture and resource recovery
The 23rd Carbon Research International Forum highlights engineered biochar's potential in supporting carbon capture, resource recovery, and sustainable industrial development. Recent progress in converting agricultural and industrial residues into high-performance carbon materials was discussed.
FAU engineering researcher earns NSF CAREER Award for air, water purification
FAU engineering researcher Masoud Jahandar Lashaki has been awarded a prestigious NSF CAREER award to study the oxidative degradation of amine-functionalized sorbents. The project aims to design longer-lasting technologies for capturing pollutants from air and water, improving indoor and outdoor air quality.
Engineered Biochar for Carbon Capture and Resource Recovery: Bridging Science, Sustainability, and Industrial Application
The upcoming international forum will explore engineered biochar's potential to advance carbon capture and sustainable resource recovery. Recent advances in biochar design, including structural engineering and hybridization with nanomaterials, will be showcased.
Seashell saviors: discarded oyster shells can clean polluted water by removing "rare earths"
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered that crushed oyster shells can capture and remove rare earth elements from polluted water. The shells trigger a chemical reaction that converts dissolved metals into solid mineral crystals, making them an effective tool for environmental cleanup.
Viciazites: Efficient carbon capture designer materials that could desorb below 60 oC
Researchers have developed a new class of carbon materials called 'viciazites' that contain carefully controlled configurations of nitrogen groups, enabling low-temperature operation and efficient CO2 capture. The materials outperform untreated carbon fibers in CO2 uptake and desorption at temperatures below 60°C.
Study: New system aims to detect percentage of recycled plastic in plastic products
Researchers created a new method combining scientific tests and artificial intelligence to differentiate recycled plastic from new plastic. The tool, developed by University at Buffalo researchers, can analyze samples and predict the percentage of recycled content with over 97% accuracy.
Urban trees can absorb more CO₂ than cars emit during summer
Researchers at TUM found that urban trees significantly absorb more CO2 than cars emit in summer, making them a key climate offsetting strategy. The high-resolution analysis reveals the impact of urban vegetation on local climate, providing valuable insights into its benefits.
Climate policies are cutting carbon – new study shows
A new study by UK and EU researchers finds that countries with better-targeted climate policies cut carbon emissions significantly faster than those without. The study analyzed over 3,900 climate policies adopted since 2000 in leading economies and found that these policies avoided approximately 3 billion tonnes of CO2 in 2022 alone.
Self-repairing biohybrid system uses sunlight to purify uranium-contaminated water
A novel, self-regenerating 'bacteria-mineral' biohybrid system was developed to utilize light like a solar cell for uranium pollution purification. The system enhances the purification efficiency of uranium pollution through the use of metabolic activity of bacteria to grow ferrous sulfide nanoparticles.
The giant fire tornado that could save our oceans
Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.
Road salt creates more harm to freshwater life than expected, study finds
Research by University of Missouri scientists found that road salt is deadly to freshwater snails when paired with the presence of predators, causing nearly 60% higher mortality rates. The study suggests practical solutions to reduce salt pollution in waterways, such as cutting road salt use by up to 50%.
A global challenge posed by the presence of pharmaceuticals in the environment
The presence of pharmaceuticals in the environment is causing problems in ecosystems, leading to impacts on human health. Researchers propose key points for a more sustainable pharmacy framework, including training professionals and promoting eco-prescribing.
Plastic pollution promotes hazardous water conditions, new study finds
A new study by University of California San Diego researchers found that fossil fuel plastics can amplify harmful algae blooms by killing off zooplankton, leading to an increase in algal concentrations. In contrast, biodegradable plastics had a smaller impact on zooplankton and algal communities.
Adoption of electric vehicles tied to real-world reductions in air pollution, study finds
A new study using satellite data confirms that California's shift to electric vehicles is making measurable differences in air quality and public health. For every 200 ZEVs added, nitrogen dioxide levels dropped 1.1%.
Prenatal and early-life pollution exposures may influence childhood blood pressure patterns, ECHO study finds
A new study from the ECHO Program found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) before and after birth may influence childhood blood pressure patterns. High blood pressure in children is a growing concern worldwide, with nearly 80% increase over two decades.
Q&A: Environmental protection benefits the American economy and public health
A new study finds that environmental regulations in the US reduce medical costs and financial losses by up to five times more than the costs associated with implementing these rules. The EPA's operating budget is tiny compared to federal spending, yet it helps protect the environment and save lives.
New carbon trading model could cut electricity costs while the Philippines reaches net-zero power
A new carbon trading model suggests that the Philippines can reach net-zero emissions in its power sector by 2054 while cutting electricity costs. The model indicates that revenues from carbon trading markets would more than cover the costs of deploying renewable energy and emissions reduction technologies.
Innovation turns building vents into carbon-capture devices
Researchers developed a distributed carbon nanofiber direct air capture filter that can turn every home, office, school or other building into a small carbon-capture system. The new filter is 92.1% efficient in removing carbon dioxide from the air, equivalent to taking 130 million cars off the road for a year.
Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences (CAS) scientists envision environmental catalytic cities for air pollution control
Scientists propose 'Environmental Catalytic Cities' with self-purification function to remove air pollutants, using stable and green catalytic materials. This technology could mitigate urban air pollution without extra energy consumption.
How emission control policies deliver synergetic climate and environmental health benefits in transportation sector
A policy-specific assessment framework evaluates integrated effects of emission control policies on greenhouse gas mitigation, air quality improvement, and public health protection. China's on-road transportation policies have achieved remarkable progress but face weakening synergies, underscoring the need for deep structural transitions.
Researchers to test long-term viability of solar panels
Researchers at Binghamton University are testing the long-term stability and environmental effects of perovskite solar cells, a more environmentally friendly option, to prevent lead leakage and pollution. The study aims to improve the durability and recyclability of solar panels, enabling widespread adoption of renewable energy sources.
How green infrastructure is revamping city storm sewers
Researchers found that communities with green infrastructure systems like rain gardens saw a notable reduction in cadmium, copper, nickel, and zinc being sent into local waterways. Implementing more of these systems can improve water quality, make cities cooler, and enhance ecosystem services.
Seoul National University of Science and Technology researchers discover breakthrough materials for removing pharmaceuticals from wastewater
Researchers at Seoul National University of Science and Technology have discovered fluorinated covalent organic polymers (FCOPs) that can remove 67.3% of beta-blockers like atenolol and metoprolol within the first minute. The FCOPs' strong adsorption performance is attributed to their rich structure, which enables multiple synergistic ...
Frequent wildfires, heat intensify air quality issues in American megacities such as New York City
Research from Colorado State University reveals how wildfire smoke combines with existing particulate pollution to create secondary, often more toxic, pollution and contribute to ozone formation. The study found that 90% of aerosol pollution over NYC is sensitive to at least one aspect of global changes, such as high temperatures.
New review warns of growing heavy metal threats in reservoirs, calls for smarter monitoring and greener cleanup solutions
A new review warns of growing heavy metal threats in reservoirs, highlighting the need for smarter monitoring and greener cleanup solutions. Researchers identify sources, risks, and promising solutions to tackle this global challenge.
Report: Cardiovascular diseases caused 1 in 3 global deaths in 2023
The latest Global Burden of Disease study reveals a significant increase in cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden worldwide, with CVD causing one in three deaths globally. The report estimates that 79.6% of all CVD deaths are attributable to modifiable risk factors, which has increased globally by 97.4 million since 1990.
Spain must significantly reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from road traffic and control industrial emissions to lower tropospheric ozone levels before 2030
Scientific research indicates that Spain must significantly reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from road traffic and control industrial emissions to lower tropospheric ozone levels before 2030. Implementing measures such as maximizing renewable energy use, promoting electrification of transportation, and implementing emission controls for...
New electrical flash method rapidly purifies red mud into strong ceramics, aluminum feedstock
A team of researchers at Rice University has developed a faster and cleaner method for recovering aluminum from bauxite residue, or red mud, by using a brief electrical pulse and chlorine gas. The process, called flash Joule heating, selectively vaporizes toxic metals while retaining almost all the aluminum.
Africa’s most feared snake can help to sniff out pollution
Researchers have found that Black Mambas accumulate heavy metals such as lead and mercury in their scales. This allows them to serve as a natural indicator of environmental pollution levels. By analyzing scale clippings from these snakes, scientists can accurately measure spatial patterns of pollution without harming the snakes.
Sustainable management of refrigerants could be a powerful climate solution
A new study highlights an opportunity for China to take the lead in fluorocarbon lifecycle management, which could prevent up to 8 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions by 2060. By implementing strategies like recovery, recycling, and reclamation, China can reduce more than half of residual refrigerant emissions.
Tiny soil microbes turn detective to uncover the timeline of oil spill contamination
Scientists developed a diagnostic tool using functional gene ratios to assess crude oil contamination status and apparent age in soils. The novel molecular diagnostic tool offers rapid field-deployable assessment of site condition and pollution age, providing evidence-based approach for prioritizing clean-up efforts.
University of Houston engineer creates a possible replacement for plastic
A University of Houston engineer has developed a method to create strong and eco-friendly materials from bacterial cellulose, which could replace plastic in various industries. The new material has high tensile strength flexibility, foldability, optical transparency, and long-term mechanical stability.
Ancient golden silk revived from the Korean sea
A team of Korean researchers has successfully recreated a golden fiber akin to that of 2,000 years ago using the pen shell cultivated in Korean coastal waters. The breakthrough reveals the scientific basis behind its unchanging golden color and demonstrates the potential of eco-friendly materials.
Repeated exposure to wildfires can incrementally increase heart failure risk
A study published in JACC found that long-term exposure to wildfire smoke may increase the risk of heart failure, particularly among older adults, women, and those living in lower-income areas. The risk was found to be higher with increased levels of PM2.5 air pollution from wildfires compared to other types of air pollution.
Plastic bag bans: Study finds up to 47% drop in shoreline bag litter
A new study from the University of Delaware and Columbia University found that plastic bag bans and fees can reduce plastic bag litter on shorelines by 25-47%, with more effective impacts at state-level policies. However, overall plastic pollution continues to grow, albeit at a slower rate in places with these policies.
Museum specimens offer new lens on pollution history
A new study uses preserved plants and animals from natural history museums to track pollution trends over two centuries. Researchers found significant changes in pollutant levels between specimens collected in the 19th and 20th centuries, highlighting the impact of industrial activity on human health.
A cheap and easy potential solution for lowering carbon emissions in maritime shipping
Researchers found that adopting new digital systems to help oceangoing container ships get in line to offload their cargo at busy ports reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 16-24%. This intervention is cheap and utilizes existing technology.
UTA-based TMAC wins award for pioneering pollution tech
The University of Texas at Arlington's (UTA) Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) has developed a real-time sensor data system to track environmental impact. The program helps Texas manufacturers reduce pollution, lower emissions, and save costs by identifying energy waste, water consumption, and air leaks.
Could the goo and gunk in your home be solutions to climate change?
Researchers have found new organisms that can capture carbon dioxide and clean pollutants from the environment. By exploring extremophiles in homes, scientists can gain insights into their unique characteristics and develop sustainable solutions.
New catalyst boosts efficiency of CO2 conversion
Researchers have developed an innovative catalyst made from cobalt-nickel alloy encapsulated within ceramic material Sm2O3-doped CeO2 (SDC), achieving 90% energy efficiency and sustaining performance over 2,000 hours. The breakthrough could significantly reduce operating costs by 60-80% compared to existing technologies.
NASA taps UTA for wildfire smoke warning system
The University of Texas at Arlington researcher Yunyao Li has been selected by NASA to develop a system that provides early warnings of hazardous air pollution from wildfires. The project aims to enhance wildfire air quality forecasting capabilities and develop tools for decision-making processes related to health management.
Researchers develop practical solution to reduce emissions and improve air quality from brick manufacturing in Bangladesh
A new study found that brick kiln owners in Bangladesh are willing to implement energy-efficient operational changes after receiving training and support. The changes led to a 23% reduction in energy use and substantial savings in coal expenditures.
Study reconstructs a century of pollution in the city of São Paulo (Brazil) using aquatic sediments
Researchers reconstructed metal pollution history in São Paulo using sediment cores, revealing three periods of increasing pollution. The study highlights the importance of sediments as environmental indicators and offers insights for conservation efforts.
Study shows 90% metal pollution drop in Adirondack waters five decades after the clean air act
Researchers at University at Albany found a near full recovery from metal pollution in Adirondack surface waters since the enactment of the Clean Air Act. The study analyzed sediment samples and found a greater than 90% reduction in metal contamination across four ponds.
London’s low emission zones save lives and money, new study finds
A new study by the University of Bath found that London's Low Emission Zones significantly reduced harmful pollutants, resulting in lower sick leave rates and improved mental well-being. The introduction of Ultra Low Emission Zones also delivered substantial cost savings.
Childhood exposure to air pollution, BMI trajectories and insulin resistance among young adults
A study found that exposure to traffic-related air pollution in childhood is associated with increased body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance later in life. Higher BMI growth from early adolescence into young adulthood may partially explain this link.
Antibiotic pollution in rivers
Human consumption of antibiotics has increased by 65% since 2000, resulting in estimated 8,500 tonnes reaching river systems globally. Chronic environmental exposure can reduce microbial diversity and increase antibiotic-resistant genes, impacting fish and algae health.
Harmful microplastics infiltrating drinking water
Researchers from UT Arlington discovered that many wastewater treatment plants are unable to effectively remove dangerous microplastics, which can transport other pollutants into the environment. This poses potential long-term health impacts for humans, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
New study reveals how to make prescribed forest fires burn safer and cleaner
Scientists at Stanford University suggest reducing health implications of prescribed burns by fine-tuning three conditions: moisture content, heat intensity, and oxygen levels. This can slash PAH emissions by up to 77% and cut cancer risks from smoke exposure by over 50%.
New study reveals how to make prescribed forest fires burn safer and cleaner
Scientists at Stanford University have discovered a method to perform prescribed burns with drastically reduced health implications by adjusting burn conditions. By tweaking moisture, heat, and oxygen levels, PAH emissions can be slashed by up to 77%, cutting cancer risks from smoke exposure by over 50%.
Growing wildflowers on disused urban land can damage bee health
Researchers found that common urban pollinator plants like white clover and bindweed accumulate toxic metals from contaminated soils, posing a risk to bee health. To mitigate this, scientists recommend testing soil for metals before planting wildflowers and choosing plant species suitable for the local conditions.
Amount of sunlight reaching Earth’s surface varies over decades, researchers report
A research team found that stages of 'dimming' and 'brightening' correspond with increased air pollution and implementation of clean energy solutions. The study suggests that reducing air pollution can lead to more sunlight reaching the Earth's surface, which could have compounding benefits for solar power production.
UH researcher unveils new model to evaluate impact of extreme events and natural hazards
A new numerical computer model tracks how pollution travels through Galveston Bay, helping scientists understand water movement in estuaries. The model is critical for evaluating climate variability and sea level fluctuation impacts on coastal communities, guiding better decisions to keep water clean and prevent flooding.
Drug pollution alters migration behavior in salmon
Researchers discovered that exposure to clobazam increased the migration success of juvenile Atlantic salmon, allowing them to navigate through dams more efficiently. The study highlights the potential risks of pharmaceutical pollution on wildlife behavior and ecology.
Smoke from US wildfires, prescribed burns caused premature deaths, billions in health damages
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that smoke from US wildfires and prescribed burns caused $200 billion in health damages in 2017, resulting in 20,000 premature deaths. Senior citizens were disproportionately affected, with Native American and Black communities experiencing the greatest harms per capita.
System for calculating the impacts of emissions by large European industrial plants is published
A new system, Amalur EIS, analyzes European industrial plant emissions and finds the energy sector generates 59.5% of total environmental impacts. Climate change has the greatest weight in Europe's total impact.
Transparency in government is good for global health
A field experiment in Chinese cities shows that increased transparency leads to a 37% reduction in high-polluting company violations and a 90% increase in regulatory inspections. Air pollution drops by 8-10%, with no evidence of direct public pressure as a factor.
Exposure to air pollution may harm brain health of older adults
A new study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series A found that long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with lower scores in key cognitive abilities, especially language skills. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter was linked to poorer language performance.