Articles tagged with Greenhouse Gases
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
The tropopause is rising at a steady pace since 1980 due to human-induced warming of the lower atmosphere. This trend continues even as stratospheric temperatures stabilize after ozone depletion efforts.
A new study highlights the need for sustainable dietary choices to reduce food-related greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing discretionary foods like sweets, pastries, and processed meats can help lower emissions, which contribute to climate change.
A new study published in Science assesses updated climate pledges and finds they could limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius with a 34% chance. Even more ambitious targets would increase the likelihood of staying below 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Researchers found that most coralline algae are negatively impacted by ocean acidification, with decreases in abundance and calcification rates. However, some species, like those in the family Mesophyllumaceae, appear to be more resilient to ocean acidification.
A study analyzed grocery purchase records of 57,000 US households and identified three ways to reduce food-based carbon footprints: meal planning, using local produce, and reducing meat consumption. The research suggests that 71% of households can decrease their emissions by implementing these strategies.
Researchers used computer simulations to predict the presence of hydroxyl radicals, which clean pollutants from the atmosphere. The study showed that traditional models had widely varying forecasts due to uncertainties in gas emissions, and that better models can aid in combating climate change.
At COP26, anaesthesia providers agree to reduce their environmental impact by implementing seven principles: prioritizing patient safety, supporting global sustainability, and monitoring healthcare systems. The goal is to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 while minimizing material resources and financial investment.
Research finds that overlapping weather extremes increase global economic losses by an average of 20% due to supply shortages and price increases. Richer economies are hit harder, with China experiencing above-average losses of over 27%.
Researchers identified three MOFs providing the most energy efficient capture of SF6 under vacuum swing adsorption, while two others showed best performance under pressure swing adsorption. The study suggests that materials optimal for one process may not be optimal for the other.
A new study reveals that methane emissions from US cities are 2-10 times higher than recent estimates, with Boston's emissions being six times higher due to pipeline and end-use emitters. The research found that seasonal consumption-based emissions account for 56% of total natural gas emissions in Boston.
Historical analysis found no precedent for the rate of coal and gas power decline required to limit climate change to 1.5°C. Rapid declines in fossil fuel use occurred in response to energy security threats, but such cases are less relevant to climate scenarios where continental-size regions are involved.
A new study maps global cropland nitrous oxide emissions and finds that reducing fertilizer application over 20% of the world's croplands could achieve 65% of global mitigation potential. The research identifies hotspots of high emissions in humid subtropical regions, where climate and soil characteristics play a significant role.
New research from the University of Arizona suggests that a slowdown in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) will intensify extreme cold weather in the US. The study found that without the AMOC, extremely cold winter weather would become more frequent and severe.
Researchers warn that global warming could make the Amazon barren, the Midwest tropical, and India too hot to live in by 2500. Climate models project a future where vegetation and crop-growing areas shift towards the poles, leading to drastic changes and potential human fatalities.
Dr. Mohammad Al Hashmi's research focuses on reducing energy consumption in residential buildings in hot and arid climates using renewable energy systems such as solar and wind power. His framework combines building interventions and clean energy approaches to minimize environmental impact.
A new model, developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers, identifies coal- and natural gas-fired electricity generation plants suitable for carbon capture technologies. The tool takes into account various factors like plant age, efficiency, location, and technology to explore optimal CO2 reduction strategies at an affordable cost.
Scientists at Kyoto University have created a simple method to convert CO2 into metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), offering a promising approach to dispose of the greenhouse gas. The new technique, which requires lower temperatures and pressures, demonstrates potential for widespread adoption and could help mitigate global warming.
Research highlights five key areas where people of high socioeconomic status have a disproportionate impact on global greenhouse gas emissions. These include influencing consumer behavior, investments, organizational practices, social movements, and access to decision-makers.
Researchers believe that wind and hydropower are the most promising renewable energy sources in Russia, with suitable areas for installation identified. However, the transition to these energy sources has been slow due to reliance on fossil fuels and nuclear energy.
The study aims to improve understanding of decarbonization's impact on human health, focusing on the US energy, food, and health nexus. It will develop a framework integrating these sectors to identify strategies yielding overall health benefits.
A new study suggests that extending the life of current cars can reduce CO2 emissions significantly more than replacing them with new, green vehicles. By keeping and using cars longer, the decrease in manufacturing emissions offsets additional emissions produced by existing cars.