Articles tagged with Pollution Control
Scientists have developed a nonrelativistic and nonmagnetic mechanism for generating terahertz waves, harnessing the electrical anisotropy of two conductive oxides. This approach produces signals comparable to commercial terahertz sources and offers a high terahertz conversion efficiency.
Replacing combustion engines with electric vehicles in Chicago would significantly reduce air pollution, especially in predominantly Black, Hispanic, and Latinx neighborhoods. The study found that electrification of all on-road vehicles could save over 1,000 lives and $10 billion annually.
A new study confirms that roadside hedges can dramatically reduce air pollution around schools by soaking up ultrafine particles emitted by traffic. Hedges have been found to act as protective barriers, capturing and filtering out harmful particles.
A University of Houston study found that most of Houston's ozone exceedance is due to transported pollutants from the central and northern US, while local photochemistry contributes to elevated ozone production. The research highlights the importance of reducing emissions at the Houston Ship Channel to mitigate future ozone pollution.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that global PM2.5 exposure decreased significantly from 2011 to 2019, largely due to China's air quality management efforts. The study used satellite-derived data and a new regional decomposition approach to quantify local and regional contributions to global PM2.5 pollution.
Researchers at CARe argue that taxing pharmaceutical companies is not a feasible solution due to potential economic consequences. Instead, they propose a hybrid framework combining the 'polluter pays' principle with a 'capacity principle,' focusing on solutions rather than assigning blame.
Researchers have developed a sustainable solution to clean contaminated water using 3D-printed 'living material' containing genetically engineered bacteria that produce an enzyme to transform organic pollutants. The material's surface area and geometry optimize bacterial growth and decontamination efficiency.
A new study from Aarhus University reveals that indoor air pollution from candle smoke and cooking fumes can cause irritation and inflammation in young individuals with mild asthma. The research found indications of DNA damage and signs of inflammation in the blood, highlighting the need for proper ventilation when cooking or burning c...
A new study published by the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography reveals extensive microplastic storage in Narragansett Bay, with an estimated 1,000 tons stored in the top 5 cm of its floor. The buildup has occurred over the last 10-20 years, primarily due to littering and runoff of single-use plastic items.
New research from the University of Ottawa's Telfer School of Management suggests that managing public transit projects requires a comprehensive approach considering rational, psychosocial, and political dimensions. This involves engaging stakeholders, including non-users, to ensure societal impact and cost-effectiveness.
A team of researchers has determined that microplastic particles are present in the marine atmosphere, even in remote parts of the world. The study found that different types of plastics, including polyester and polyethylene terephthalate, were detected in air samples collected from various sites along the Norwegian coast.
A study led by Prof. Yinchang Feng finds that China's recent changes in air quality were primarily driven by emission reduction efforts, particularly the control of coal-related combustion emissions. However, the pace of PM2.5 reduction slowed down in some cities, and ozone pollution worsened in others.
A new study by Goethe University Frankfurt found that effluents from treated wastewater treatment plants alter invertebrate communities in Hesse's waters. Pollution-tolerant taxa like worms and crustaceans increase, while sensitive species like stonefly and caddisfly larvae decline.
The Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) has played a vital role in recognizing and mitigating environmental pollution and climate change in the Arctic. Its efforts have led to significant reductions in pollutants in the Arctic and influenced global agreements, inspiring similar initiatives in other regions.
A new study found consistent increases in premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) death and disability due to particulate matter air pollution globally. The analysis, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, revealed a 8.1% rise in age-standardized CVD deaths attributed to outdoor PM pollution between 1990 and 2019.
New research suggests that rising temperatures may offset the impact of increased precipitation on nitrogen runoff, which could lead to reduced aquatic pollution. The study found that warmer temperatures reduce evaporation, allowing more nitrogen to enter waterways, while also affecting microbial life in soil and sediment.
Researchers found that the proportion of APCD CO2 emissions in CFPPs surged from 0.12% to 1.19% between 2000 and 2020, with desulfurization devices contributing 80% of APCD CO2 emissions. The study proposed measures to enhance APCD energy efficiency and provide low-carbon electricity to tackle this emerging environmental issue.
A new study suggests that controlling air pollution could reduce antibiotic resistance, which is responsible for 480,000 premature deaths annually. The analysis indicates a significant link between PM2.5 levels and antibiotic resistance globally.
A large long-term study found exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with increased community mental health services use among people with dementia. Reducing nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter could help free up resources in overstretched psychiatric services.
A study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that chronic exposure to fine particulate air pollutants (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) may increase non-lung cancer risk in older adults, with significant associations with colorectal and prostate cancers.
A new study identifies reducing ammonia emissions as a cost-effective measure to reduce fine particulate matter concentrations in Europe. Implementing effective measures in the agricultural sector could achieve significant pollution reductions, avoiding 100,000 premature deaths annually.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have detected the elusive ethyl radical intermediate in the ethane pyrolysis reaction, a key driver of chemical reactions in the plastics and natural gas industries. This discovery could lead to more efficient production of plastics and other chemicals with reduced byproducts and pollution.
A new study published in Circulation found that heat waves and high levels of fine particulate pollution can double the risk of fatal heart attacks. The combination of extreme temperatures and fine particulate pollution was associated with an increased risk of heart attack deaths, especially among women and older adults.
Researchers at UBC Okanagan have developed a new method to incorporate used plastic bottles into clay soil stabilization in landfills, strengthening the soil and preventing pollutants from escaping. This innovative approach has the potential to divert millions of metric tons of plastic waste from landfills each year.
Researchers have developed a single-atom catalyst that efficiently removes methane from engine exhaust at low temperatures, even when the engine is starting. The catalyst uses every atom of precious metals and maintains reaction stability at higher temperatures.
A new study finds that living in neighborhoods with higher air pollution, lower walkability, and density are associated with a greater incidence rate of hospitalization due to COVID-19. Neighborhoods with higher public transit quality and access also show a higher incidence rate of hospitalization.
Researchers found large quantities of plastic mulch fragments in strawberry fields, negatively impacting soil qualities and microbial respiration. The study's findings suggest that biodegradable or natural mulches could be alternatives to reduce long-term plastic pollution.
A landmark study reveals that more than 90% of global aquaculture and capture fisheries face substantial risks from environmental change. The study highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the need for transboundary collaboration, diversification, and stakeholder engagement to adapt to climate change.
The WVU Pollution Prevention Program provides customized source reduction solutions, training, and digital technologies to minimize waste. The program aims to help businesses achieve carbon neutrality through data-driven modeling and AI-powered adjustments.
The team's innovative design uses bank-tube-inspired modules to capture CO2 with sufficient purity for underground sequestration. By eliminating steam-based heating and using ambient wind flow, the system boosts efficiency and reduces upfront costs.
Research from Keck School of Medicine of USC found that everyday air pollution can alter brain development patterns in adolescents, linked to changes in brain connectivity over time. Exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide was associated with increased or decreased functional connectivity between brain regions.
A specially designed garden, rain garden, can capture toxic tire chemicals associated with tires entering waterways by more than 90%. Researchers tested a Vancouver rain garden and found that it captured about 75% of the chemical, preventing it from entering salmon-bearing streams.
The article discusses the challenges of reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions to zero, but found that technology can help farmers lower pollution by up to 45 percent. The study proposes using carbon-free energy sources, sustainably produced bioenergy, and techniques to capture emissions from these energy sources.
A new study reveals that product trade plays a pivotal role in shifting pollution and its associated health burdens across sectors and regions in China. Consumption-based effects from sectors such as food, light industry, equipment, construction, and services cause significantly higher deaths than those from a production perspective.
A new study from Harvard University reveals that despite the national reduction of mercury emissions by 90% since the implementation of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards in 2011, two regions - Texas and North Dakota - continue to be major sources of toxic air pollution. The research highlights significant sociodemographic disparitie...
A new study reveals that diverting streams and rivers for irrigation can significantly extend the time microplastics spend in river catchments. Researchers found a strong link between urbanisation and microplastic concentrations, with microplastic loads increasing downstream of more urbanised areas.
A team of researchers urges governments to manage plastic production, use, and recycling by categorizing plastics as persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic (PBT) pollutants. Plastics' long-lasting nature and accumulation in organisms pose significant environmental and health risks.
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.
A new study links disproportionate siting of PFAS sources near watersheds serving communities with higher proportions of Black and Hispanic/Latino residents. The research suggests that regulating PFAS releases and ensuring safe drinking water is crucial in protecting public health, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a metal-filtering sponge that can capture and recover critical metals and heavy-metal pollutants from contaminated water. The new sponge successfully removed lead to below detectable levels with one use and recovered over 90% of the ions during subsequent cycles.
A new study found that air pollution from the oil and gas sector has substantial adverse impacts on air quality and human health, resulting in 7,500 excess deaths, 410,000 asthma attacks, and $77 billion in annual health costs. The pollutants nitrogen oxide, fine particulate matter, and ozone from U.S. oil and gas production were respo...
Researchers used ALD to create eco-friendly exhaust gas catalysts, lithium-ion battery coatings, and hydrogen fuel cells. The technology improves catalytic and energy material performance through precise control of film thickness and composition.
Researchers at Pusan National University have developed high-adsorption phosphates that can efficiently capture radionuclide cesium ions. These phosphates outperform standard adsorbents with record-high adsorption capacities, making them promising candidates for radioactive waste disposal.
A large Chinese study found that acute air pollution exposure is associated with an increased risk of arrhythmia, with the strongest link seen in atrial flutter and supraventricular tachycardia. Exposure to pollutants like nitrogen dioxide was found to persist for up to 24 hours after initial exposure.
The City University of Hong Kong (CityU) has been approved to establish the first UNESCO Regional Training and Research Centre on coastal contaminant monitoring in Hong Kong, focusing on the Western Pacific region. The centre aims to strengthen marine pollution monitoring, promote innovative technologies, and facilitate international r...
A new study by Texas A&M University researchers shows that exposure to ultrafine particles during pregnancy enhances the risk for respiratory viral infections, including influenza. Pregnant women are already at increased risk for severe flu, and air pollution exacerbates this vulnerability.
A recent study found that food processing facilities and high-rise apartments with 10 stories or higher are major contributors to nitrogen dioxide emissions in California. The research, published in Science of the Total Environment, used satellite remote sensing data to analyze NO2 emissions from various property types.
A new meta-analysis from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found a significant association between fine particulate air pollutants (PM2.5) and the risk of developing dementia, with a 17% increase in risk for every 2 μg/m3 increase in average annual exposure to PM2.5.
The University of Liverpool has signed a 5-year agreement with the Mama Doing Good Foundation, Kenya Medical Research Institute, and other partners to reduce household air pollution in Kenya. The partnership aims to train 130,000 Kenyan community health workers to prevent household air pollution and improve community health.
Researchers highlight gaps in tritium studies, focusing on species uptake and human health risks through the food chain. A global assessment is needed to minimize tritium's impact on individual species and the environment.
A recent study found that conservatives are not easily persuaded by traditional pro-environmental messages, even when framed in terms of their own moral values. Instead, messages emphasizing loyalty, authority, or purity were equally effective in promoting pro-environmental behavior among conservatives.
Research finds global emissions of several banned ozone-destroying chemicals are increasing, primarily due to their use in alternative products. These potent greenhouse gases affect the climate, equivalent to CO2 emissions from a smaller country like Switzerland, and may negate some benefits of the Montreal Protocol.
A new study found that stronger air pollution rules would lower premature death risks for all Americans, but particularly those from marginalized communities. Lowering PM2.5 levels to 8 μg/m3 could reduce mortality rates by 4% for White higher-income adults and up to 7% for Black higher-income and low-income adults.
Experts call for a legally-binding treaty to govern Earth's orbit, citing the growing threat of satellite debris. With an expected 60,000 satellites in orbit by 2030, scientists warn that large parts of space could become unusable if action is not taken immediately.
A Kaiser Permanente study of 3.7 million adults found long-term exposure to fine particle air pollution increases the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular disease, especially in neighborhoods with lower socioeconomic status. The research lends support for strengthening air quality standards to protect public health.
Researchers have developed a self-powered nanosensor that can detect small amounts of mercury ions by tapping it into a sample solution. The sensor uses the triboelectric effect to generate electricity and signal the presence of mercury ions in real-time.
A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh and University of Georgia is leading a $749,997 NSF Convergence project to collect and analyze data in Pittsburgh and Georgia to build a more circular economy. They will use the Circularity Assessment Protocol (CAP) to examine material usage and management at community levels.
A new study published in the British Journal of Criminology found that the number of stoves exempt from UK smoke control regulations has increased ten-fold since 2010. The Deregulation Act 2015 removed obstacles to manufacturers certifying their appliances as 'exempt', contributing to nationwide air pollution problems.
A study by MIT researchers found that chess players perform worse and make more errors when exposed to high levels of fine particulate matter in the air. The probability of error increases by 2.1 percentage points, while the magnitude of those errors rises by 10.8%. Cleaner air leads to clearer heads and sharper thinking.
A new study from Oregon State University found that both cotton and synthetic microfibers have negative impacts on the behavior and growth of aquatic organisms. The research, published in Frontiers in Marine Science, suggests that increasing awareness and control over fiber release can help mitigate these effects.