Researchers found that most allegedly biodegradable plastic items sold by Brazilian supermarkets are actually oxo-degradable plastics banned in several countries. The products cost 125% more than conventional alternatives and failed to meet minimum requirements for genuine biodegradability.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·DateOct 26, 2023
Researchers at the University of Houston have discovered that microalgae can be used to sequester carbon dioxide and convert it into mass-produced proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. This process has the potential to transform food production, treat wastewater, and produce sustainable biofuels.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2023
Chinese researchers are exploring advanced porous nanomaterials and technologies to reduce radionuclide discharge into the environment. These materials possess high specific surface area, abundant pore structures, exceptional stability, and design flexibility, making them promising candidates for radionuclide removal.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalEco-Environment & Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 24, 2023
A study found that invertebrate abundance and diversity decreased near human activities like shellfish harvesting and heavy metal pollution. In contrast, environmental factors like water temperature and salinity impacted invertebrates further away from human settlements.
SourceAbo Akademi University·JournalEstuarine Coastal and Shelf Science·TypeCase study·DateOct 23, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A University of Otago study found biodegradable plastics can negatively impact wild fish, especially in terms of escape performance and aerobic metabolism. In contrast, bioplastics only affected maximum escape speed, highlighting the need for regulation and control of raw materials used.
SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateOct 18, 2023
A WVU team is providing free technical assistance to local industrial facilities to reduce their impact on environmental and community health. The project aims to support businesses in making changes that benefit their communities while maintaining profitability.
A study in the Barents Sea reveals that microplastics are being transported into the Arctic Ocean due to ocean circulation, ice melt, and increased tourism. The highest concentrations were found near sources of pollution and along the coastline.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateOct 17, 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.
Researchers found artificial turf fibers in most marine and river samples, with concentrations up to 50 times higher on surface waters. The study highlights the serious environmental impact of these fibers, including blockage of intestinal tracts and decrease in growth rates in aquatic animals.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023
A study of 162 killer whales found that their diet played a significant role in contaminant levels and potential health risks. The researchers analyzed the animals' diets and found striking differences in legacy and emerging contaminant concentrations across the North Atlantic.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 11, 2023
A study using Google Street View cars found hyper-local air pollution hotspots in the Salt Lake Valley, revealing spatial variability and environmental justice issues. The research identified pollution emission sources off-road from traffic and industrial areas.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAtmospheric Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 11, 2023
Researchers at Drexel University developed a titanium oxide material that can break down two common dye pollutants in water under visible light. The material reduced rhodamine 6G and crystal violet concentrations by 90% and 64%, respectively, in just 30 minutes.
SourceDrexel University·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Scientists at IISc have developed an enzyme mimetic called NanoPtA that can degrade toxic chemicals in industrial wastewater effectively in the presence of sunlight. The nanozyme is highly specific and robust, making it suitable for large-scale industrial use.
SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNanoscale·DateOct 3, 2023
Researchers at Princeton University demonstrated that ocean bursting bubbles can transport microplastics into the atmosphere, adding to evidence of plastic pollution's oceanic reach. The study projects an annual emission of around 100,000 metric tons of microplastics from the ocean.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023
A study using 29 low-cost instruments revealed PM2.5 values exceeded Indian national standards, associated with crop residue burning and secondary formation. The data will aid in addressing environmental impacts of air pollution.
SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2023
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.
Researchers say current models fail to project oxygen dynamics in coastal ecosystems with high photosynthetic activity, such as seagrass meadows and coral reefs. Fluctuations in oxygen levels have been observed in systems like the Venice Lagoon and Red Sea coral reefs, where marine species adapt to changing conditions.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 28, 2023
Researchers at SLU discovered high concentrations of microplastics in Cliff Cave's water and sediment, with highest levels near the entrance and in sediment. Flooding increases microplastic transport through the cave system, depositing debris in higher abundances near the mouth.
SourceSaint Louis University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateSep 27, 2023
Researchers detected nine types of polymers and one type of rubber in cloud water, confirming microplastics play a key role in rapid cloud formation. The presence of hydrophilic polymers in the atmosphere could lead to significant changes in ecological balance and severe loss of biodiversity.
SourceWaseda University·JournalEnvironmental Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023
A new EWG study reveals that humans can serve as sentinels for understanding the impact of toxic PFAS on wildlife health. The study's findings show that over 625 species, including fish, birds, and mammals, are contaminated with PFAS, highlighting the need to tackle these persistent chemicals.
SourceEnvironmental Working Group·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 26, 2023
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.
A study by the University of the Basque Country found that even highly diluted wastewater from treatment plants can exert significant effects on stream communities, reducing invertebrate diversity and altering trophic networks. The researchers emphasize the need for more stringent treatments to conserve freshwater food webs.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023
Researchers found an average of 41 microplastic particles per square meter per day settled from the atmosphere, while sediment samples contained denser particles with higher population densities. The study suggests clothing is likely the prominent source of microplastics to the Ganges River system.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 25, 2023
Researchers found treated sewage discharge to be the best predictor of high nutrient levels and algae blooms in four English rivers, even when agricultural pollution was present. The study highlights the disproportionate impact of sewage on river quality and calls for improved regulations and waste management practices.
SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 21, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
Researchers have genetically engineered Vibrio natriegens to produce enzymes that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in salt water. This breakthrough addresses the challenge of removing plastics from oceans and could lead to more sustainable solutions.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAIChE Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023
A recent study published in Ocean and Coastal Management found that the public perception of plans to combat oligotrophication in the Seto Inland Sea is more positive than expected. The survey revealed that respondents were unfamiliar with nutrient supply measures from factories and sewage treatment plants, but presented information si...
SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·TypeSurvey·DateSep 13, 2023
The UK National Clean Maritime Research Hub aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime activity in ports and at sea. The hub will carry out innovative research in sustainable marine fuels and their safe use, low-carbon power and propulsion systems for shipping.
A study by the American Chemical Society found that rubber plumbing seals can release additives into drinking water, including 1,3 diphenylguanidine and N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-1,4-benzenediamine. The leaked compounds can form unwanted byproducts, which may pose a human health risk.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateSep 6, 2023
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.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPublic Health Ethics·DateSep 5, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
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.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 5, 2023
A recent study found that social factors are a stronger influence on water-quality violations than median household income. The study's social vulnerability index captured three times as much of the population affected by water-quality issues as median income did.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 5, 2023
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.
SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2023
Researchers developed a new type of photocatalyst harnessing the visible portion of sunlight spectrum. The photocatalyst achieved high photo-to-chemical conversation efficiency and was found to be extremely stable under various conditions, including high temperatures and different pH levels.
SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Science Advanced Materials and Devices·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2023
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 study by the University of Gothenburg found that paper cups, made from bioplastics like PLA, leach toxic chemicals into water and sediment, affecting aquatic life. Researchers call for transparency in plastics industry reporting to minimize plastic production.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2023
A Dartmouth-led study reveals the devastating impact of gold and mineral mining on tropical rivers worldwide. Mining operations have doubled suspended sediment concentrations at 80% of affected rivers, altering river ecosystems and threatening human health.
SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2023
A study by researchers at the University of São Paulo found that glitter can hinder the growth of cyanobacteria, a key component of aquatic ecosystems. The toxic effects of glitter on microorganisms have not been well-studied, but the findings suggest that even low concentrations can negatively impact susceptible organisms.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAquatic Toxicology·DateAug 22, 2023
Researchers found human metabolites, pharmaceuticals, illicit drugs, and sunscreens in stream water, altering chemical and microbial fingerprint. Human recreation also stirred up sediments, raising metal concentrations and potentially affecting wildlife.
Scientists have created iron oxide nanoparticles called 'smart rust' that can remove a range of contaminants from water, including oil, nano- and microplastics, and estrogen hormones. The particles are magnetic and can be easily removed with a magnet, making them a promising tool for improving water treatment.
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 at UBC's BioProducts Institute found a solution to capture virtually all microplastic particles in water by adding tannins to wood dust, trapping 95.2-99.9% of plastic particles. The method could be scaled up for municipal treatment systems or home use.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2023
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.
SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateAug 16, 2023
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.
SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalWater Research·DateAug 11, 2023
A study by Duke University researchers has found microplastics in the fats and lungs of two-thirds of marine mammals, suggesting that ingested plastics can travel into tissues. The presence of polymer particles and fibers in whales' fat and organs may cause harm, including hormone disruption.
SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeObservational study·DateAug 10, 2023
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.
At one Antarctic research station, contaminant levels have persisted for 18 years, exceeding international guidelines. Historic practices at Casey station have polluted the local ecosystem, affecting marine environments.
Coral reefs benefit from reduced land-sea impacts under ocean warming, with pollutants and over-fishing putting immense stress on ecosystems. Human-caused threats were most clearly demonstrated in 2015's record-breaking marine heatwave, which showed coral cover remained unchanged despite extreme heat stress.
SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2023
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.
SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023
A recent study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that sewage is the primary cause of nitrogen surges in the Indian River Lagoon, contradicting previous findings that fertilizer use was the main contributor. The study found that water quality and harmful algal blooms worsened after five years of mandatory wet season fertilizer blac...
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023
A recent study projects an increase in surface water pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa, posing significant risks to human populations and ecosystem health. The region is expected to become the dominant hotspot of surface water pollution, with potentially catastrophic consequences for communities.
SourceUniversiteit Utrecht Faculteit Geowetenschappen·JournalNature Water·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 17, 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.
Researchers found that plastic debris on coral reefs increases with depth, largely stemming from fishing activities, and is correlated with proximity to marine protected areas. The study, which surveyed over 1,200 reefs across 14 countries, highlights the need for increased protections to address this growing threat.
SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·DateJul 12, 2023
Approximately 70,000 tonnes of pesticides leach into aquifers each year, impacting ecosystems and freshwater resources. The study showed that about 80 percent of applied pesticides degrade into daughter molecules, persisting in the environment for a long time and posing significant harm to marine wildlife and coral reefs.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2023
Prof. Dr. Marta Litter takes over as Editor-In-Chief of Journal of Photocatalysis, bringing her extensive expertise and experience to lead the journal into a new era of excellence. Her research on heterogeneous photocatalysis and iron-based nanomaterials has led to over 250 scientific publications.
SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalJournal of Photocatalysis·DateJul 11, 2023
A new study uses marine fossils to infer the health and stability of coastal ecosystems, revealing consistent patterns in population declines and species extinctions. The findings provide a reliable benchmark for conservation efforts and offer insights into the impacts of human activities on marine biodiversity.
SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalPeerJ·DateJul 11, 2023
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.
Researchers from the University of Portsmouth found that biodegradable fishing gear (BFG) does not significantly reduce the cost of ghost fishing due to decreased fishing efficiency. The study suggests that implementing BFG could still have economic benefits, but only if it can achieve similar fishing efficiency as traditional gear.
SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 11, 2023
Researchers found that micro- and meso-plastics accumulate heavy metals, with copper and chromium being prominent contaminants. The study reveals how surface features like holes, biofilms, and mineral crystals facilitate the collection of pollutants on plastic particles.
SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalEcotoxicology and Environmental Safety·DateJul 8, 2023
The EU-funded SUPERVAL project aims to convert post-combustion gases into valuable resources, reducing pollutants while generating chemicals. The technology involves solar-driven electrochemical conversion of CO2 into an organic molecule and transformation of NOx and N2 into ammonia.
SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·DateJul 7, 2023
New research reveals that sunscreen contamination may be less harmful to wildlife than previously thought, with exposure posing a low risk to small aquatic animals compared to individual chemicals.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A new study reveals the Mediterranean as the area most at risk globally for endangered seabirds, with areas like Portugal's Exclusive Economic Zone also showing considerable risk. Seabirds are already vulnerable or endangered, and plastic exposure worsens their fragile state.
SourceFaculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 4, 2023
Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have created a new method for removing mercury from concentrated sulphuric acid, reducing levels by more than 90%. This innovation could lead to reduced mercury emissions and the production of high-purity, non-toxic products in industries such as mining and metal refining.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalACS ES&T Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2023
A study has revealed that a quarter of all plastics potentially encountered by petrel species are in remote international waters, posing a significant threat to their survival. The research highlights the need for international cooperation to address plastic pollution in the world's oceans.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 4, 2023
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.
Scientists have developed a sustainable electrochemical method to remove PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals,' from water. The new platform uses metallocenes to capture and release PFAS, allowing for efficient removal and reuse without incineration or harsh chemical conditions.
SourceSaarland University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2023
Researchers estimate that gray whales off the Oregon Coast consume millions of microparticles per day, primarily from zooplankton and fish. The study suggests that these high loads of microfibers may be affecting the health and behavior of the whales, with potential consequences for their populations.
SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 26, 2023
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.
Researchers at Duke University have discovered a way to make rubbery materials up to nine times more durable without compromising their elasticity. This breakthrough could help reduce microplastic pollution from car tires, with estimates suggesting that tire wear alone releases millions of metric tons of debris into the environment eac...
SourceDuke University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2023
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.
Inadequate household water can cause a range of adverse effects on children's health, including the spread of disease, interruptions to growth and development, and school absenteeism. This highlights the need for inclusive policies addressing water poverty and its impact on child well-being.
SourceWiley·JournalWiley Interdisciplinary Reviews Water·DateJun 21, 2023