Articles tagged with Greenhouse Gases
Researchers from Environmental Defense Fund and Woodwell Climate Research Center recommend a regional crediting framework to strengthen the integrity of the voluntary soil carbon market. Implementing this approach can help ensure measurable, reliable, long-term climate solutions.
Research found that cattle manure biochar addition can offset earthworms' contributions to greenhouse gas emissions in forest soils. The study showed that adding 10% biochar reduced CO2 and N2O emissions, improved soil pH, and increased denitrification rates.
Accelerating HFC phase-down under the Kigali Amendment could help achieve Paris Agreement's 1.5°C goal, reducing global power consumption and emissions. Reaching accelerated deep cuts before 2050 would save up to 20% of expected future global electricity consumption.
A new analysis reveals Caribbean coral reefs have warmed by 0.5 to 1°C in the past century, with projected further warming of 1.5°C by 2100. Marine heatwaves are also increasing in frequency and length, posing a significant threat to these ecosystems.
Researchers found that desert microbes produce nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in arid soils after rain, contradicting the long-held assumption that it comes from fertilized agricultural fields. The study reveals a new source of nitrogen pollution in deserts, driven by fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes.
A new study suggests that reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, forestry, and land use sectors could lead to higher food prices and potentially negative impacts on food security. The study found that a decarbonization scenario would increase international food prices by about 27%, affecting around 420 million people at ri...
The end-Permian mass extinction was characterized by a 10-degree climate warming, with 75% of organisms going extinct on land and 90% in oceans. Machine learning analysis reveals that declining oxygen levels, rising water temperatures, and ocean acidification were the key factors in organism survival or extinction.
According to a new EPFL study, Swiss rivers are at risk of overheating by the end of the century. If greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, river temperatures may only rise by 1°C and discharge decreases by 5% in mountain catchments. Inaction could lead to extreme consequences, including glacier loss and decreased biodiversity.
Rising temperatures are causing the world's coldest forests to shift northward, threatening biodiversity and increasing wildfire risks. Soil nutrient availability also plays a key role in the response of boreal vegetation to climate change.
A Kyoto University study reveals that four major oil corporations make unsubstantial commitments to cleaner energy. Despite increased public relations efforts, these companies persistently rely on fossil fuels and show no strong evidence of a shift towards non-fossil fuel energy.
Urbanization in China has led to an increase in biomass and carbon stocks, both in rural areas and recently developed cities. The country's afforestation strategy and green policy initiatives have contributed to this positive effect on its climate balance.
A vision for a net-zero Germany in 2050 emphasizes the need for rapid adaptation of the energy system to renewables, as well as technological measures for active CO2 removal and natural sink enhancement. Implementing these measures requires legal, political, economic, and social frameworks.
A new study analyzed the clean energy discourse of four large oil and gas companies, finding that their business actions and investments do not align with their climate change pledges. Despite increased use of keywords like 'climate' and 'transition', the companies have made limited progress towards decarbonization.
The UK has allocated £40 million to support four major research studies tackling key global environmental challenges. The projects will develop solutions for net zero cities, improve biodiversity, help rural communities adapt to climate change, and provide evidence for policy decisions.
A new study published in PNAS reveals that the environmental impacts of corn ethanol far outweigh its benefits, with carbon emissions potentially negating any climate advantages. The research highlights the need to shift towards next-generation biofuels and improve efficiency, electrification, and policy-making.
A team from UNIGE and Empa recommends a domestic generation mix of wind and photovoltaic energy to reduce Switzerland's contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. The scenario would enable the country to reduce its footprint by an estimated 45%.
Researchers at CSU are developing a system to recapture and burn crankcase ventilation gas, reducing methane emissions by over 75%. The project partners with Caterpillar to test their engine and design the system, which aims to solve a significant industry problem.
A new study finds that European diets must change to reduce climate impact, with feeding livestock low-opportunity-cost biomass offering a 31% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The EAT-Lancet diet, which recommends reducing animal-source foods like red meat, is at odds with circular food systems that prioritize land use efficiency.
Researchers identify two key principles determining reaction specificity in converting CO2 and ethane into synthesis gas or ethylene. The formation energy of the bimetallic catalyst and binding energy between the catalyst and oxygen released from CO2 are crucial in driving reaction selectivity.
Researchers say a new framework can help trigger positive tipping points to tackle the climate crisis, including the growth of plant-based diets and regenerative farming methods. The Breakthrough Agenda at COP26 signals a shift in thinking, aiming to tip economic sectors into a green state.
A new study suggests that widespread use of genetically modified crops in the EU could prevent the release of 33 million tons of CO2 equivalents, equivalent to 7.5% of annual greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. This is mainly due to reduced land-use change and preservation of the Amazon rainforest.
Researchers at Stanford University have created a new catalyst that can convert carbon dioxide into gasoline up to 1,000 times more efficiently than existing standards. The breakthrough allows for the production of long-chain hydrocarbons, making it easier to handle and store, with potential applications in a carbon-neutral cycle.
The Congo Basin's tropical forest is a unique greenhouse gas emitter, with low nitrous oxide emissions but high methane releases, particularly in swamp forests. Soils play a crucial role in converting nitrous oxide to harmless nitrogen, affecting the forest's overall climate gas balance.
Cornell University chemists have developed a class of nonprecious metal derivatives that can efficiently power cars and generate electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. The breakthrough could enable wider deployment of hydrogen fuel cells, replacing combustion engines and reducing waste.
A study found that switching from a metered dose inhaler to a dry powder version for maintenance therapy reduces the carbon footprint of people with asthma by more than half. The researchers conclude that this substitution is an acceptable and worthwhile option for most patients who can safely manage their condition at home.
Researchers found that microbes in the soils generate methane gas, which is then processed as it moves through dead trees. The findings shed light on the sources of greenhouse gas emissions from ghost forests, a growing concern due to rising sea levels.
A new study suggests that mass customization can generate higher profits and reduce environmental waste considerably when overproduction is a problem. Customers willing to wait for bespoke clothing can make the fashion industry more environmentally sustainable.
Researchers developed a novel scheme that reduces energy consumption while improving traffic prediction accuracy by up to 40% compared to benchmark schemes. The scheme uses software defined network and edge computing to control the operation of base stations, ensuring both sustainability and performance.
A study found that thawing permafrost in the Arctic releases large amounts of previously unaccounted-for carbon dioxide, amplifying global warming. The research team determined that up to 80% of this CO2 comes from ancient organic matter and 18% from inorganic sources.
New study reveals tradeoff between water quality and emissions on farms, highlighting potential environmental benefits of conservation practices. Researchers found that split nitrogen applications had no impact on nitrous oxide levels, but cover crops increased emissions by spikes in summer.
Researchers have developed a new nanocatalyst for the dry reforming of methane, overcoming coking resistance with its confined core-shell structure. The catalyst's superior carbon resistance is attributed to the confinement and electron transfer between In and Ni.
Researchers at West Virginia University have created a simple microwave catalytic process to upcycle single-use plastics into high-value benzene, toluene, and xylene. This technology aims to increase the recycling rate of plastic waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing an alternative source of petrochemical materials.
Researchers from the University of Illinois developed a system using hyperspectral sensors on planes to quickly and accurately detect nitrogen status in corn crops. The technology achieved up to 85% accuracy and has potential for use in satellites, enabling farmers to make informed decisions about nitrogen side-dressing.
A study by Tulane University found that swapping just one serving of beef per day for a more planet-friendly alternative can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 48% and water-use impacts by 30%. This simple change could collectively make a substantial difference in reducing the carbon footprint of US diets.
A team of researchers at MIT has identified and modeled a major reason for poor performance in electrochemical carbon dioxide conversion systems, which is caused by a local depletion of CO2 gas near the electrodes. By pulsing the current off and on, they can replenish the gas levels, allowing the process to continue efficiently.
A new study finds that climate change will lead to an increase in kidney stone cases, even with mitigation efforts. Researchers predict a cost of $57-99 million to the US healthcare system over seven decades, with a steeper impact if no action is taken.
A new study reveals that circular waste management systems can effectively reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants, with the potential to eliminate open burning of waste by 2050. The researchers estimate that this could account for almost a quarter of global methane emissions.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have developed a biotechnology-based solution to produce ovalbumin, a key protein in egg white powder. The fungus-produced ovalbumin reduces greenhouse gas emissions and land use by up to 72% compared to traditional chicken-based production.
A new CU Boulder study reveals that iodine from desert dust can decrease ozone air pollution but prolong greenhouse gas lifetimes. The finding has significant implications for air quality and climate, forcing researchers to re-evaluate how particles from land impact the atmosphere's chemistry.
A team of scientists from NTU Singapore has developed a plant-based emulsifier that is rich in protein and antioxidants, allowing it to replace eggs or dairy in food staples. The emulsifier is made by fermenting brewers' spent grain and can help cut down on food waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
A study analyzing major US electric utility pledges suggests that if implemented, these reductions could lower power sector emissions by 30% by 2050. However, about one-seventh of the pledged cuts are redundant and would be required under existing state regulations.
A recent study found that major US electric utility companies' voluntary climate pledges could lower net emissions by roughly 560 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent, an amount equal to one-third of 2018 US power sector emissions. This reduction is on top of existing policies and could play a vital role in climate change mitigation.
Researchers at MIT developed a selective separation process using sulfidation to target rare metals like cobalt in lithium-ion batteries. The approach reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional liquid-based separation methods.
Researchers at Pedro Hispano Hospital installed a gas capture system that collected and recycled waste anaesthetic gases, reducing potent greenhouse gas emissions. The system, based on the principle of circular economy, can be reused in future anaesthetics, significantly reducing emissions.
Research comparing site-specific nutrient management approaches to existing farmer fertilization practices shows SSNM improves average rice yield by 644 kg/ha, increases profitability, and reduces N losses. SSNM also promotes better nutrient balance and considers micronutrients like zinc and iron.
The study found that climate change impacts are apparent in nearly all aspects of climate variability, including temperature extremes, precipitation patterns, and ecosystem changes. These changes have important implications for sustainable resource management and future adaptation strategies.
A recent study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research found that climate change has contributed to a four-fold increase in crop pest and disease occurrence in China since the 1970s. The researchers attributed this rise to warmer night temperatures, which can foster an increased chance for pests and diseases.
A previously unknown source of the potent greenhouse gas nitrous oxide has been found in East Siberian Yedoma permafrost. The discovery highlights the significance of thawing permafrost as a globally important positive feedback to climate change.
A study estimates that 55% of organic matter removed during wastewater treatment is refractory, leading to high greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers propose a new perspective on carbon neutrality in the industry by leaving non-toxic recalcitrant organic matter in the wastewater.
The global plastics supply chain has a significant impact on the climate, with production accounting for 96% of total greenhouse gas emissions. The use of coal-based energy in plastic production is driving this growth, with emissions quadrupling since 1995 and causing health issues like air pollution and asthma.
Researchers at Lehigh University are working on a project funded by the Good Food Institute grant to adapt human tissue engineering techniques for growing meat in the lab. The team is developing a scaffold for meat cells to grow on and using electrochemistry, nanomaterial design, and liposomal delivery vehicles to promote fibrous growth.
A recent study found that adopting a reduced meat diet can significantly improve human health, animal welfare, and the environment. The researchers compared different diets, including a Mediterranean diet with more fish and seafood, and a vegan diet, to a reference diet based on German Nutrition Society recommendations.
Researchers at MIT created a computational tool to minimize embodied carbon in truss structures by choosing between timber and steel. The analysis suggests that substituting materials or changing the structure can significantly reduce emissions, with potential savings of up to two times current levels.
A new analysis found that non-vegetarian diets result in higher greenhouse gas emissions than vegetarian diets, while a diet rich in nutrients and low in saturated fats can significantly reduce emissions. The study suggests small changes, such as cutting out sweets or switching brands, can make big environmental gains.
A study by Technical University of Munich found that major tech companies significantly underreported CO2 emissions from their value chain, with 50% of emissions omitted in 2019. The researchers developed a method to identify reporting gaps and estimated the omitted emissions at 751 megatons carbon dioxide equivalents.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new approach to modify the surface of copper catalysts, improving the conversion of carbon dioxide into useful fuels. The technique involves coating the copper with thin films of ionomers, which steer the reaction towards generating carbon-rich products.
Researchers conclude that nitrous oxide's effect on the ozone layer raises the social cost of this gas by 20 percent, impacting human health and plant life. Improving accuracy could spur nations to more aggressively address climate change and influence policy decisions.
A new study suggests that UK plant-based alternative food consumption has nearly doubled over the past decade, with younger generations and women being more likely to adopt this diet. The research found that plant-based milks were the most popular among the UK population, followed by vegan sausages and vegetable burgers.
A University of Arizona-led study reconstructs Earth's climate since the last ice age, highlighting unprecedented global temperatures and the speed of human-caused warming. The research combines two independent datasets to create a more complete picture of past temperatures.
Chemists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have developed a method to produce cement by milling instead of burning lime, reducing CO2 emissions. The process could be implemented on an industrial scale, but further development is needed.