Articles tagged with Pollution Control
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine found that subway stations near river tunnels have significantly higher concentrations of hazardous particles in the air. The study suggests increasing ventilation and cleaning efforts to improve air quality in these areas.
A research team investigated NPF events in Beijing's atmosphere, discovering regional transport plays a vital role in creating 'polluted' NPF events. These events significantly impact air quality, climate, and human health, highlighting the importance of joint air pollution control measures.
A new open-access Raman spectral library enables scientists to detect molecular 'fingerprints' of particles and better trace sources of ocean plastic pollution. The database adds 42 polymer types, including those from non-plastic particles, to improve accuracy.
A study by Brown University and Silent Spring Institute found that inexpensive DIY air filters called Corsi-Rosenthal boxes can significantly decrease indoor air concentrations of PFAS and phthalates. The boxes, made from MERV-13 filters, duct tape, a fan, and cardboard, reduced PFAS levels by 40% to 60% and phthalates by 30% to 60%.
The Inflation Reduction Act offers significant benefits for public health through its tax credits and financial incentives. The law aims to reduce the adverse health effects of climate change by targeting greenhouse gases, conventional air pollutants, and carcinogenic chemical contaminants. By providing a more politically feasible appr...
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.
New research reveals mangroves can withstand heavy metal contamination without adverse health impacts. Grey mangroves were found to tolerate high lead and zinc levels in contaminated sediment, highlighting their role in stabilising polluted regions.
A new study found that stop-and-go traffic may be linked to reduced birthweight, with a nine-gram decrease in weight among infants born to parents who reside in areas with heavy traffic. This association was seen even after controlling for background air pollution levels and other environmental co-exposures.
Researchers at Lehigh University have secured $13.2 million in funding to improve hydrogen generation and carbon capture/sequestration technologies through a partnership with Georgia Tech's UNCAGE-ME Center. The goal is to develop catalysts that can mitigate the degradation of these technologies in real-world conditions.
Researchers will develop a new model to describe complex soot particles in the atmosphere, improving accuracy in predicting climate warming caused by soot. The project aims to reduce uncertainty over soot's impact on climate change and air quality.
Research found that air pollution from diesel exhaust and ozone significantly reduces the reproductive success of parasitic wasps controlling aphids on oilseed rape plants. The pollutants alter plant chemistry, attracting a specific wasp species more successfully.
A new study aims to understand how an air quality alert system can help reduce the health risks posed by wood smoke in communities. Researchers are collecting data from participants who use Burner Alert, a UK-first system that provides real-time pollution levels and recommendations.
A UK-wide study found that 60% of home-compostable plastics do not fully disintegrate in home compost bins, ending up in soil. The study highlights the need to revise and redesign sustainable plastic waste management systems.
A Tel Aviv University study reveals that the Israeli shoreline is contaminated with more than two million tons of microplastics, with Tel Aviv and Hadera beaches being the most polluted. The researchers warn that exposure to microplastic waste is unavoidable and poses a risk to human health.
The study found that fine particulate concentration levels decreased by 2-4 micrograms per cubic meter in host countries with embassy monitors. This reduction led to a significant decrease in premature mortality, resulting in annual health benefits of $127 million for the median city with an embassy monitor.
A Penn State-led researcher team found that population aging and low baseline mortality rates most impact outcomes on premature deaths due to air pollution. The study used past and projected data to model five future scenarios estimating premature deaths and identified areas of the world that could be most impacted.
The study found that scrubber discharge water accounts for up to 9% of certain carcinogenic and environmentally harmful substances in the Baltic Sea. This increase is partly due to a significant growth in ships equipped with scrubbers, which has tripled since the study was carried out.
Research by the University of Exeter found high levels of antibiotic ciprofloxacin in UK wastewater, posing a significant risk to human health. The study suggests that antibiotic pollution from human waste can increase resistance to antibiotics, even in countries with well-established sanitation infrastructures.
A new study evaluated the performance of a Seabin device in Plymouth, UK, finding it captured only 0.18kg of litter over 750 hours of operation. In contrast, manual trawls collected significantly more litter with minimal harm to marine life.
A new database quantifying cropland phosphorus budgets around the world helps identify nutrient management gaps in different regions. The study provides valuable insights into phosphorus management challenges and opportunities in various countries, shedding light on how to improve global phosphorus use efficiency.
A new study found that ultrafine particle concentration decreased by 48% during the COVID-19 state-of-emergency period due to reduced aviation and road activity. This reduction corresponded with flight activity dropping by 74% and highway traffic volume decreasing by 51%.
Researchers observed a short-term 'seesaw' phenomenon in haze pollution over the North China Plain, with periods of high pollution followed by low haze levels. The study suggests that sudden changes in atmospheric movement linked to abnormal sea surface temperatures are responsible for this behavior.
Researchers have developed a new framework using high-throughput 'omics' technologies to detect the effects of ambient chemical mixtures on living organisms, including water fleas. The approach enables water fleas to detect bioactive components and predict toxicity in other species.
Researchers found that air pollutants, particularly fine particles and nitrogen dioxide, increase the risk of COVID-19 hospitalizations up to 30% in vaccinated individuals. Long-term exposure also worsens outcomes, even among those fully vaccinated, highlighting the importance of improving indoor air quality.
A £7M NIHR award will scale clean energy access to improve health, gender equality and climate in sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to address household air pollution, a significant risk factor for global disease, and will focus on informing national strategies to meet the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 7.
A mobile app will be developed to record cigarette smoke exposure and other air pollutants in everyday locations, engaging Black and American Indian youth as Citizen Scientists. The study aims to enhance youth engagement in healthy environments and local clean-air policies.
A new study from the University of Surrey found that simple measures such as green screens, air purifiers, and school street initiatives can significantly reduce air pollution levels in classrooms and playgrounds. The research shows that these measures can cut outdoor and indoor exposure to toxins by up to 57% and 36% respectively.
A new study published in Scientific Reports shows that selectively planting vegetation between roads and playgrounds can cut toxic air pollution reaching school children. Western red cedar tredges were found to be most effective at capturing particulate matter, with almost half of black carbon and 46% of fine particles eliminated.
A comprehensive review of water quality trading programs worldwide reveals that agricultural production remains largely unregulated, hindering their effectiveness. The authors suggest that nudging political will and creating regulatory drivers can help evolve water quality trading into a cost-effective pollution control instrument.
A new study used satellite data to determine the effect of fuel regulations on sulfur pollution from cargo ships. The research team found significant changes in pollution after regulations went into effect, and their data can contribute to understanding how pollutants interact with clouds and affect global temperatures.
A study found that certain bacteria grow more efficiently on plastic bags than leaves and twigs, breaking down carbon compounds in the process. The bacteria's growth is stimulated by plastic pollution, which primes them for rapid breakdown of other natural carbon compounds.
Researchers created a composite of boron nitride and titanium dioxide that harnesses UV-A energy to break apart PFOA molecules in water, degrading 99% of the pollutant in less than three hours. The catalyst is more efficient than existing methods, offering new hope for removing PFOA from drinking water.
Researchers at Boston College found air-pollution-related disease, death and IQ loss occur in every city and town in Massachusetts. The study estimated a cumulative impact on childhood cognitive development of almost 2 million Performance IQ points lost.
The study recommends a multi-layered approach to mitigate the impact of gas and oil production operations on communities and the environment. Reducing new drilling and properly discontinuing active and inactive oil and gas wells is considered most effective in eliminating environmental stressors.
Researchers find that microplastics impede internal activity of seeds during germination, leading to stunted growth. The study used a novel technique called biospeckle optical coherence tomography (bOCT) to demonstrate the effects of polyethylene microplastics on lentil seedlings.
A study by Rice University finds that agricultural nitrogen emissions cause substantial damage to air quality, human health, and the climate. The researchers quantified emissions from fertilized soils over three years and found that ammonia had a much larger impact on damages than nitrogen oxides and nitrous oxide.
A new standardized method for measuring calcium carbonate on ocean floors can help researchers compare coral reef health globally. The 'how-to' guide enables the collection of comparable data from coral and oyster reefs worldwide, providing insights into the impacts of climate change and human activities.
Healthcare accounts for nearly 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with inhaled anaesthetics contributing significantly. Doctors advocate for a regulatory framework for mandatory reporting and accountability to reduce healthcare's substantial greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at NC State University developed a proposed new textile-based filter that combines cotton fabric and an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase to separate carbon dioxide from air and gas mixtures. The filter showed promising results, capturing up to 81.7% of CO2 with a double-stacked filter.
Researchers at KAUST developed a new exhaust catalyst concept that can effectively remove NOx from vehicle emissions, resolving an ongoing debate over additive atoms in the catalyst mix. The team identified the ideal atomic recipe to catalytically remove NOx from diesel car tailpipes.
A comprehensive study by Hong Kong University of Science and Technology revealed that anthropogenic low-volatility organic vapors play a critical role in forming secondary organic aerosols (SOA) and haze pollution in urban environments. The research found that oxidation of VOCs dominates OOMs formation, with nitrogen oxides significant...
A community-led network of low-cost sensors found concerning levels of air pollution in Belmont County, Ohio, exceeding WHO guidelines on many days. The study highlights the limitations of EPA sensors and suggests a clear link between fracking and poor air quality.
A new study finds that reducing emissions of short-lived climate pollutants like methane and ozone can cut the rate of global warming in half by 2050. This approach offers a fighting chance to prevent catastrophic warming and improve our chances of remaining below the 1.5 degree centigrade mark.
A new study suggests that cutting emissions of carbon dioxide and other largely neglected climate pollutants is crucial to stay below the 1.5°C guardrail and avoid catastrophic climate change. The study finds that adopting a 'dual strategy' can cut the rate of warming in half by 2050.
Researchers explored potential policies to reduce nitrogen loss while protecting farmers' bottom lines. The study found that a nitrogen leaching fee policy showed the best outcome, with estimated cost savings of $524 million per year.
A new study demonstrates a machine-learning approach that can learn to control a fleet of autonomous vehicles as they approach and travel through a signalized intersection. The technique reduces fuel consumption and emissions while improving average vehicle speed, with benefits seen even when only 25% of cars use the control algorithm.
The Lancet report states that air pollution, water pollution, and chemical pollution are responsible for nine million deaths globally. Despite declining mortality from traditional pollution, industrial pollution has increased over the past two decades, offsetting these gains.
Researchers estimate that European soils receive between 31,000 and 42,000 tonnes of microplastic particles each year, mirroring ocean surface waters. Microplastics spread onto farmland can contaminate the food chain, posing a significant threat to wildlife.
A study of historical tiger shark jaws reveals a local southeastern Australian population has been extirpated due to shark control programs, emphasizing the need for regional management and conservation. Genetic diversity drives future evolution, and its loss can lead to reduced adaptability to environmental changes.
Researchers found that Australian native rushes, including Phragmites australis, can significantly remove PFAS chemicals from contaminated surface water. The study used floating wetlands as a mechanism for plants to grow hydroponically and showed a 42-53% removal of legacy PFAS contaminants.
A study by University of Maryland researchers found that urban homeowners are more willing to pay for stream restoration projects, despite lower environmental benefits. In contrast, exurbanites tend to have higher environmental benefits but are less willing to pay.
Research using a network model and air pollution data before and during COVID-19 outbreaks found that surrounding traffic conditions influenced air quality in certain cities. Pollution tended to peak in cities as they contained the virus, with some cities experiencing worse air quality than ever.
Researchers aim to improve stability and efficiency of catalytic materials using quantum mechanics-based calculations and computational simulations. The goal is to create more effective catalysts that reduce pollution and energy consumption.
Researchers have developed a new type of optical fiber that generates high-power supercontinuum light in the mid-infrared spectrum, expanding its applications for environmental monitoring and cancer diagnostics. The non-silica graded-index fiber provides a self-cleaning mechanism, enabling efficient generation of broadband sources.
A novel method developed by the University of Tsukuba uses drones and machine learning to estimate the amount of plastic litter in rivers. The approach combines high-resolution optical and thermal images, resulting in more accurate estimates than other methods.
A recent study by CityU researchers found that clothes dryers are a significant source of airborne microfibers, with some releasing up to 40 times more than washing machines. The team suggests installing filtration systems in dryer vents to mitigate this environmental concern.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that alternative delivery locations can help offset the negative impacts of increased home deliveries. The study suggests that these locations may be more appealing to underrepresented groups who don't receive many packages, increasing their willingness to use them.
Researchers develop new membranes to capture more efficient CO2 from mixed gases, addressing trade-off between permeability and selectivity. The technology increases CO2 selectivity by up to 150 times while retaining relative high permeability.
A new study reveals that American Indian communities are less likely to benefit from recent downward trends in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in the US. Average PM2.5 concentrations were higher in AI-populated counties compared to non-AI populated counties by 2018, contrary to previous declines.
The John Innes Centre researchers identified the role of the signaling protein CaM2, which regulates calcium channels and shapes calcium signals. This led to accelerated calcium frequency, earlier signaling with bacteria, and enhanced root nodule symbiosis in engineered legume roots.