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Clean, sustainable fuels made ‘from thin air’ and plastic waste

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a solar-powered reactor that captures CO2 from industrial processes or directly from the air and converts it into sustainable fuels. The technology also uses plastic waste, converting it into glycolic acid and other valuable chemical products.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJoule·DateJun 19, 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.

Building a blueprint for zero-emissions agriculture

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.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

A baking soda solution for clean hydrogen storage

Researchers at PNNL have developed a baking soda solution for storing hydrogen, addressing the challenge of long-duration energy storage. The study aims to advance the DOE's H2@Scale initiative and reduce the cost of hydrogen production.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Confinement effects of carbon nanotubes on polyoxometalate clusters enhance electrochemical energy storage

Researchers have developed a method to encapsulate polyoxometalate molecules within carbon nanotubes, enhancing the electrochemical energy storage of materials. The study found that these hybrids exhibit improved electrochemical properties due to reduced aggregation and increased electron transfer.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJun 8, 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.

Brazilian algorithm aims to project future of Amazon Rainforest and predict changes in carbon capture

The CAETÊ algorithm projects the future of vegetation in the Amazon, presenting scenarios for transformation driven by climate change. It shows that a drier climate could increase biodiversity but lower carbon storage, with carbon absorption dropping between 57.48% and 57.75% compared to regular climate conditions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEcological Modelling·DateJun 6, 2023

Direct air capture technology licensed to Knoxville-based Holocene

A new, energy-efficient approach to removing CO2 directly from air has been developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and licensed to Holocene. The technology uses an aqueous solution containing receptors called Bis-iminoguanidine to absorb carbon dioxide, which can then be stored deep underground.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJun 5, 2023

First soil map of terrestrial and blue carbon highlights need for conservation

A new study maps Australia's terrestrial and blue carbon soils, revealing the continent holds 27.9 gigatonnes of carbon, equivalent to 700 times annual electricity emissions. The research emphasizes the need to protect key ecosystems threatened by human activities and climate change.

SourceCurtin University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 1, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

You can make carbon dioxide filters with a 3D printer

Researchers at NC State University have developed a novel method for creating CO2 capture filters using 3D printing. The filters, made from a hydrogel material infused with the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, captured 24% of CO2 in a gas mixture and retained 52% of its performance after over 1,000 hours. This technology has potential applic...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGels·DateMay 31, 2023

Mitigating climate change through restoration of coastal ecosystems

Restoring blue carbon ecosystems like seagrasses and mangroves can remove additional carbon from the atmosphere while combating ocean acidity. This process, known as inorganic carbon capture, is potentially more durable than organic carbon burial.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 30, 2023

Energy industry apps to improve accuracy and efficiency

University of Houston researchers have created digital applications to enhance energy efficiency, including calculators for hydrocarbon MMP, carbon dioxide MMP, and viscosity. These tools offer significantly higher accuracy than current methods, helping engineers save time and resources.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalGeoenergy Science and Engineering·TypeNews article·DateMay 25, 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 examine cooling power plants with brackish groundwater

Brackish groundwater has the potential to replace fresh water for cooling coal- and natural gas-fired power plants, but treatment can be energy intensive. The study found that retrofitting power plants to use brackish water could nearly eliminate fresh water usage, but increase electricity generation costs by 8-10%.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalNature Water·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 22, 2023

New catalyst transforms carbon dioxide into sustainable byproduct

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new catalyst that converts captured carbon dioxide into acetic acid with high efficiency. The innovation uses electrochemistry to convert CO2 into products with established markets, offering new pathways for improving the economics of carbon capture and storage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateMay 3, 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.

Why mosses are vital for the health of our soil and Earth

A global study found that mosses cover over 9.4 million km² globally, providing essential services to the environment. Mosses support plant ecosystems by laying the foundations for plants to flourish and may play an important role in mitigating against climate change by capturing vast amounts of carbon.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeSurvey·DateMay 2, 2023

Using microbes to get more out of mining waste

Researchers have developed a method to extract valuable metals from old mining waste using microbes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30%. This process also captures carbon dioxide from the air and stores it in the tailings as new minerals.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 27, 2023

International research team: World's climate plans make for a worrying read

According to the study, 50 countries' climate plans predict 12 gigatons of CO2 emissions annually by 2050, which must be removed from the atmosphere. The researchers emphasize the need for rapid reductions here and now, as relying solely on technology and nature restoration may not be sufficient to meet this goal.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 19, 2023
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.

To more effectively sequester biomass and carbon, just add salt

Researchers propose using agro-sequestration to capture carbon from the air by growing biomass crops and burying them in engineered dry biolandfills. The addition of salt helps prevent decomposition, allowing for stable sequestration of up to 2 tonnes of carbon dioxide per tonne of biomass.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCase study·DateApr 11, 2023

US forests face an unclear future with climate change

A new study by University of Utah researchers finds that US forests may lose carbon through fire, stress, and insect damage, compromising their role as a climate solution. The study suggests urgent need to update carbon offset protocols with best available science on climate risks.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 2023

Discovery of crucial clue to accelerate development of carbon-neutral porous materials

Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) have identified seven types of zirconium metal clusters found in MOFs and fourteen potential new metal building blocks. This discovery provides a crucial clue to accelerate the development of carbon-neutral porous materials.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalTrends in Chemistry·DateApr 4, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Rising temperatures alter ‘missing link’ of microbial processes, putting northern peatlands at risk

Climate change is expected to impact northern peatlands, a key carbon storage ecosystem. A recent study found that rising temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels can disrupt the delicate balance between nitrogen fixation and methane oxidation, leading to unpredictable outcomes.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 3, 2023

Harnessing nature to promote planetary sustainability

The latest issue of PLOS Biology features a special collection on biology-based solutions to reduce plastic pollution, carbon dioxide emissions, and produce food or energy more sustainably. Insect enzymes may degrade plastic waste, while photosynthetic algae can capture CO2 produced by industrial applications.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2023

Path to net-zero carbon capture and storage may lead to ocean

A novel copper-containing polymeric filter can effectively capture carbon dioxide from the air, converting it into sodium bicarbonate that can be released harmlessly into the ocean. The technology has garnered international attention and could be powered by renewable energy in the future.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 31, 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.

Texas Port partners with UT scientists to store its greenhouse gas emissions

The University of Texas at Austin is helping the Port of Corpus Christi determine if it can permanently store greenhouse gas emissions from industrial operations beneath the seafloor of the Gulf of Mexico. The project aims to store carbon dioxide emissions in geological formations deep beneath the seafloor, reducing atmospheric emissions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateMar 29, 2023

Greenlandic glacial rock flour can help fight climate change

Researchers found that Greenlandic glacial rock flour can capture large amounts of CO2 through enhanced weathering, improving crop yields by up to 24% in Danish fields. The fine powder also acts as a natural fertilizer, providing a wider array of nutrients than commercial organic fertilizers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·TypeCase study·DateMar 16, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cleaning up the atmosphere with quantum computing

Researchers developed an algorithm using quantum computing to study amine reactions and find new compounds for carbon capture. The algorithm can quickly screen thousands of molecules and structures, vital for practical applications in fields like carbon capture.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAVS Quantum Science·DateMar 14, 2023

New research: Hotter and drier conditions limit forest recovery from wildfires

Warmer and drier climate conditions are making it less likely for trees to regenerate after wildfires, according to new research published in PNAS. Ecological forest management can partially offset climate-driven declines in tree regeneration by limiting fire-caused tree death, but only if action is taken quickly.

SourceThe Nature Conservancy, Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 6, 2023

Scientists use satellites to track earth ‘greening’ amid climate change

Researchers estimate worldwide changes in plant leaf growth due to global warming, finding that greening trends have a stronger association with carbon uptake than growing season length. Satellite imagery and field sensors reveal new insights into the impact of climate change on vegetation productivity and carbon capture.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateMar 2, 2023

Engineered wood grows stronger while trapping carbon dioxide

Rice University scientists have developed a method to engineer wood that traps carbon dioxide while increasing its strength. This process involves removing lignin and hemicellulose from the wood and replacing them with metal-organic framework particles, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.

SourceRice University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 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.

Better understanding on the way to a carbon-neutral economy

A team of researchers has identified the importance of rifted margins in the transition to a green economy. These continental margins harbor vast accumulations of rocks and hydrocarbon reserves, making them a potential location for new resources needed for a carbon-neutral economy. The study provides an overview of the processes that s...

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 14, 2023

Uncovering the secrets of electron-eating microorganisms

Researchers at Aarhus University are studying electro-trophic microorganisms that convert green electricity and CO2 into high-value products. The project aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of these microbes, which could lead to breakthroughs in microbiological Power-to-X and novel tools for microbial corrosion prevention.

SourceAarhus University·DateFeb 1, 2023

New species of microalgae discovered

Scientists have identified a new species of microalgae, Medakamo hakoo, which has the smallest known genome of any freshwater algae. The discovery could lead to the mass production of substances such as functional foods, cosmetics, and biofuels at low cost.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Scientists unveil least costly carbon capture system to date

Scientists at PNNL have created a new system that efficiently captures CO2 and converts it into methanol, reducing emissions and establishing a market for CO2-containing materials. The technology could help stimulate the development of other carbon capture technologies and promote a more circular economy.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Study identifies new levers for controlling plant biochemistry

Plant biochemists have discovered a new level of regulation in the biochemical machinery that plants use to convert organic carbon into aromatic compounds. The research reveals new strategies for controlling plant biochemistry, including genetic tools to precisely control which compounds get produced in different parts of a plant.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 11, 2023

Using machine learning to forecast amine emissions

A group of scientists developed a machine learning approach to predict amine emissions from a carbon capture plant. They analyzed data from a stress test at a German power plant and found that two amines respond in opposite ways, increasing or decreasing emissions. This new method has the potential to change the way chemical plants ope...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 4, 2023

Carbon dioxide removal should receive additional financial support

A study suggests that subsidies for carbon dioxide removal should be higher than the price on carbon emissions due to economic leakage. This is because ambitious countries reducing emissions can lead to other countries increasing their emissions, reducing overall emissions reduction. In contrast, carbon dioxide removal does not affect ...

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2022

Producing fertilizer without carbon emissions

Researchers at ETH Zurich investigate carbon-neutral production of nitrogen fertiliser, finding a transition is possible and may increase food security. However, alternative methods have advantages and disadvantages, with the key to success likely being a combination of approaches.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateDec 19, 2022
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.

Toward net-zero emissions nitrogen fertilizers

Researchers propose alternative fertilizer production methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but emphasize the need for careful environmental assessment. The global food supply depends on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, which require significant energy and lead to carbon pollution.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 19, 2022

Whales could be a valuable carbon sink, say scientists

Researchers explore the importance of understanding whale carbon sequestration potential to combat climate change. Whales can store more carbon than small animals, influencing nutrient dynamics and carbon cycling over ocean-basin scales.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 15, 2022

An integrated, net-negative system captures carbon and produces ethylene

Researchers at UIC have created an integrated system that captures carbon dioxide from flue gas and converts it to high-purity ethylene, achieving net-negative carbon emissions. The system's modular design allows for easy scaling up and down, making it a potential breakthrough in sustainable ethylene production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2022

Fjords, small in size and number, are significant carbon reservoirs

A new study reveals that fjords store 11-12% of the ocean's carbon, making them small but mighty planetary 'thermostats' that regulate temperature. Fjords are highly reactive, releasing carbon back into the atmosphere during glacial periods.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 2022

Countries bet on forests and soils to reach net-zero

A new study by the University of East Anglia highlights the risks of relying on nature-based solutions, such as forests and soils, to achieve net-zero emissions. The research warns that these solutions may not be enough to offset the remaining difficult-to-decarbonize emissions if progress on reducing fossil fuel use stalls.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateDec 7, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A low-carbon energy transition may result in substantial emissions

A new study finds that transitioning to a low-carbon energy system could lead to significant global emissions, consuming much of the remaining carbon budget. The average emissions associated with decarbonization amount to 195 gigatonnes of CO2, equivalent to 0.1°C of additional global warming.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2022

Catalyzing clean energy

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.

SourceLehigh University·DateNov 14, 2022
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.

The world will probably warm beyond the 1.5-degree limit. But peak warming can be curbed

New research suggests that the world will probably warm beyond the 1.5-degree limit set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, but peak warming can be minimized by adopting more ambitious climate pledges and decarbonizing faster. The study models scenarios to explore what degree of warming would likely follow different courses of action, highlig...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 10, 2022

New technology creates carbon neutral chemicals out of thin air

Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed a technology that captures CO2 from the atmosphere and transforms it into useful chemicals. The switchable Dual Function Materials (DFMs) can produce multiple chemicals depending on operating conditions, making it responsive to demand fluctuations.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNanoscale·DateNov 10, 2022