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Global population could peak below 9 billion in 2050s

Researchers from the Earth4All initiative project that global population could peak at 8.5 billion people by mid-century with unprecedented investment in poverty alleviation. The team's analysis also suggests that extreme poverty can be eliminated in a generation, leading to a decline in global population trends.

SourceThe Club of Rome·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 27, 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.

Fusion’s future in the U.S. could come down to dollars and cents

New research from Princeton University suggests that fusion energy's viability hinges on economics, not just engineering challenges. The model results indicate that a favorable market can enable fusion to reach 100 GW capacity despite high capital costs, but competing technologies may require lower prices.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJoule·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 16, 2023

Tax policy may not be enough to combat climate change

A new study finds that tax interventions needed to combat climate change will need to be larger and more effective than previously thought. Improvements in energy efficiency technology are crucial, but technological adjustments take time.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 15, 2023

WVU lab’s game-changing high-performance semiconductor material could help slash heat emissions

A team led by Xueyan Song at West Virginia University has created an oxide ceramic material that solves a longstanding efficiency problem plaguing thermoelectric generators. The breakthrough achieved record-high performance, opening up new research directions to further increase performance and enabling large-scale waste heat recovery.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateMar 14, 2023

Short-distance migration critical for climate change adaptation

A new study from the University of East Anglia finds that most people migrate short distances within their own country to adapt to climate change. The research reveals that everyday mobility is a crucial aspect of managing different shocks and stresses, including increasing climate variability.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEcology and Society·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2023

Greater gender equality helps both women and men live longer

A global study has found that greater gender equality is associated with longer life expectancy for both women and men. The study, published in the lead up to International Women's Day, suggests that addressing longstanding gender inequality can help extend longevity for all genders.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 6, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How debit cards helped Indonesia’s poor get more food

A digital food voucher system in Indonesia has significantly increased the frequency with which poor households receive their full allocation of food, from 24% to 81%. The program's success was achieved by replacing traditional rice-bag delivery with digital card vouchers, allowing recipients to purchase food themselves.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateMar 2, 2023

Charity begins at home as far as international aid is concerned

A new study by the University of Portsmouth found that UK development policy has shifted from focusing on poverty and conflict to prioritizing national security interests. This shift has led to reduced aid to Africa and a narrower focus on the national interest.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCanadian Journal of Development Studies/Revue canadienne d études du développement·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

Study of US hydroelectric dams shows benefits to local economies decline with improvements in transmission capabilities

A study by Carnegie Mellon University researcher Edson Severnini found that large-scale hydroelectric dams constructed in the US before 1950 spurred short- and long-term growth, while those built after 1950 had modest effects on local economies. The decline is attributed to advancements in high-tension transmission lines.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Economic Journal·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.

Colombia, a biodiversity hotspot, holds lessons for other countries trying to balance development with conservation, Stanford-led study shows

A new Stanford-led study highlights the importance of coordinated policies governing biodiversity in Colombia, one of the world's most biodiverse countries. The research found that biodiversity is governed by nearly 200 distinct policies covering various ecosystems and conservation approaches.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 6, 2023

Modern arms technologies help autocratic rulers stay in power

A large study reveals that access to modern military technology substantially reduces the probability of democratisation of authoritarian regimes. The spread of ground-breaking 29 military technologies in all independent states from 1820-2010 confirms connections between state's access to specific weapons, economy, and form of government.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalThe Economic Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2023

Economics trump environment to save big cats, say ecologists

A study by University of Reading ecologists suggests that social and economic factors drive the decline of large carnivore species, with habitat loss being less significant. The researchers propose a sustainable model of development to protect carnivores, but note that this may come at the cost of locking people into poverty.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 24, 2023

Meat import ban in Africa hurts local population

Researchers analyzed Ghana's chicken market, finding that EU imports depress local prices, harming poor and smallholder households. Higher tariffs would increase domestic prices, but benefits few, while cheap imports improve nutrition for low-income groups.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalFood Security·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 23, 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 find that to achieve long-term sustainability, urban systems must tackle social justice and equity

Researchers emphasize the importance of inclusivity and understanding past policies affecting marginalized communities in urban planning, design, and public policy efforts. The study identified three core focus areas: social justice and equity, circularity, and digital twins, to address environmental issues and infrastructure challenges.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Cutting costs and emissions in beef production

A research team from the University of Queensland has developed a tool to guide the global beef industry in reducing costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The study found that as much as 85% of emissions could be cut without an overall economic hit, by opting for more efficient feeds and locations.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 11, 2023

Predicting a recession

Researchers developed a new model to predict U.S. recessions and economic slowdowns based on financial statement manipulation. The study found that high levels of potential manipulation in financial statements can improve recession prediction 5 to 8 quarters away.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Accounting Review·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Designing better battery electrolytes

Scientists are rethinking electrolyte design for future battery generations, considering factors like interphases and solid-state electrolytes. They're using AI and automated laboratories to identify optimal electrolyte characteristics and reduce human error.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2022

Post-lockdown auto emissions can’t hide in the grass

A new study published in AGU Advances found that post-lockdown auto emissions rebounded in some California areas, with affluent neighborhoods experiencing less pollution drop. The researchers used mobile laboratory data and analyzed grass samples to track CO2 levels and found significant differences between regions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAGU Advances·DateDec 5, 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.

Women in scientific societies, a positive development

Researchers found that female academics have a higher chance of being recognized for their contributions compared to male counterparts. The study suggests three reasons for this phenomenon: increased awareness of past barriers, equal representation as an added value, and the recognition that women face unique challenges in the field.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEconometrica·DateNov 25, 2022

How COVID-19 school closures will affect inequalities in adult skills

A new study projects that COVID-19 school closures will exacerbate existing inequalities in adult skills between countries in the Global North and South. The loss of learning due to school closures is expected to further widen skill gaps, compromising global development goals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 24, 2022

World Cup: It’s the winning, not the hosting, that delivers an economic boost

A recent study found that winning the FIFA World Cup increases a country's GDP growth primarily through export growth. This effect is attributed to an increase in demand for national products and services globally after the tournament. The study used OECD data from 1961 to examine the impact of winning the World Cup on GDP growth.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalSocial Science Research·DateNov 21, 2022
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.

Rising housing cost to income ratio strongly linked to poor health, death, suicide

An international study found that housing cost to income ratio is strongly associated with preventable deaths and suicide in developed countries. However, social spending on pension and unemployment benefits can lower these risks. Housing policy measures such as public housing stock and rent controls also show protective effects.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 16, 2022

Should maize farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa store or sell their grain?

A new University of Illinois study reveals that maize prices do not always rise after harvest in Sub-Saharan African markets, with prices falling 16.3% of the time. This uncertainty leads farmers to make decisions based on guesswork, considering storage expenses and risks of spoilage and loss.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 7, 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.

Innovative incubator to jumpstart efforts to control harmful algal blooms

The US Harmful Algal Bloom Control Technology Incubator aims to advance innovative ways to control blooms impacting marine ecosystems and regional economies. The partnership between UMCES and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium will offer funding and guidance for innovative control technology projects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateOct 24, 2022
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.

European colonial legacy is still visible in today’s alien floras

Research by University of Vienna scientists reveals that regions occupied by the same European power have more similar 'alien floras' due to restrictive trade policies. The study shows that strategic economic importance increases floristic similarity, highlighting the lasting impacts of colonialism on global ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 17, 2022

First-of-its-kind database tracks agricultural phosphorus use world-wide

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.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

How cattle ranchers in Brazil cope with weather shocks

A new study from the University of Illinois reveals how cattle ranchers in Brazil cope with weather shocks. The research found that ranchers make decisions based on rainfall patterns and anticipate extreme dry seasons by selling animals for slaughter or to confinement operations, which can decouple food sources from current weather.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 6, 2022

Should developing countries invest more in agriculture or education?

A study published in the Review of Development Economics found that investments in high-quality education for rural farm people are crucial to breaking the cycle of low soil health and human capital development. Annual returns to schooling in Malawi were 3-4% after correcting for various factors.

SourceWiley·JournalReview of Development Economics·DateOct 5, 2022
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.

Bad roads reduce trade volumes by 18%

A study published in Journal of Urban Economics found that bad roads in border regions increase travel time and cost, reducing international trade volumes by 18%. Underinvestment in transport infrastructure also leads to a 'border effect', where trade between regions in different countries is lower than within the same country.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Urban Economics·DateOct 4, 2022

$30M USAID grant sees soybean innovation through the last mile in Africa

The University of Illinois has received a $30 million investment from USAID to develop soybean value chains across Sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to remove last-mile obstacles to technology adoption, including seed, productivity-improvement, and credit issues.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateOct 4, 2022
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.

Greener crypto mining possible with industry incentives

A new study by Cornell University researchers suggests that green policy incentives for carbon capture and renewable energy can help reduce the environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining. States with lower electricity prices and a higher share of renewable energy in their grids are best suited for this approach.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateSep 19, 2022

Palm oil’s implications on the Sustainable Development Goals

A systematic review of 82 scientific publications found that palm oil boosts local economies and poverty reduction while exacerbating social inequalities. Sustainable palm oil production practices facilitate achievement of SDGs like quality education and access to clean water.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 16, 2022

Millions of farmers put their faith in God when making decisions

A study by the University of Copenhagen found that religiosity significantly affects the risk preferences of small-scale farmers in Ethiopia. Farmers who believe in a higher power are more willing to take risks, with approximately 26% believing God determines their success as farmers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalAgricultural Economics·DateSep 13, 2022

UT Institute of Agriculture receives grant to tackle digital literacy

The UT Institute of Agriculture has received a grant to implement the 4-H Tech Changemakers program, which aims to increase digital literacy and bridge STEM gaps among Tennesseans. The program will provide students with enhanced opportunities for STEM education through non-traditional methods, dismantling system barriers.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateSep 7, 2022
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.

Technology transfer deficits jeopardize climate targets

A new study finds that public-private partnerships and energy initiatives can partially address technology transfer deficits but are insufficient. China's success in attracting technology transfer through foreign direct investment is seen as an alternative model for developing countries.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEnergy Policy·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 6, 2022

Would helping only the least advantaged benefit society as a whole?

A study by Hun Chung questions the assumption that helping the least advantaged benefits society as a whole, finding potential gaps in Rawls' theory. The research suggests that even with an optimal state, further improvements can occur without worsening the situation of the least advantaged group.

SourceWaseda University·JournalThe Journal of Politics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2022

New study in Earth Science Frontiers suggests lacustrine shale reserves can bolster China’s energy independence

A new study published in Earth Science Frontiers reveals that lacustrine shale oil reserves in China have significant potential to shape energy security and geopolitics. The research identifies optimal conditions for shale oil accumulation, including high organic content and thermal maturity, as well as characteristics of these deposits.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEarth Science Frontiers·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2022

How can a welfare state boost population health?

Researchers found a negative correlation between age-standardized death rates and levels of decommodification in 21 OECD countries. Decreased labor market polarization and risk were associated with improved population health, particularly in men.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 31, 2022
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.

China’s cities leading the way on carbon reduction - Study

Thirty-eight Chinese cities have reduced their CO2 emissions for at least five years, while 21 cities have cut emissions due to economic decline or population loss. The study recommends individualized emission targets considering cities' resources and development goals.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 25, 2022

Digging through patents to make mining greener

Researchers from Kyushu University analyzed global patent applications to identify R&D strategies for sustainable mining technologies. The study found that the Paris Agreement and raw metal price trends influence CCMT development, with varying degrees of impact by country.

SourceKyushu University·JournalResources Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

National parks - islands in a desert?

A study found that biodiversity conservation in national parks is strongly associated with socioeconomic conditions, including the Human Development Index. National parks in countries with higher HDI values showed lower species abundance declines compared to those with lower HDI.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 15, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Cash transfers more effective than workforce training in improving lives of Rwandans

A study by University of California San Diego found that cash transfers were more effective than workforce training in improving the lives of Rwandan youths. The research revealed that cash transfers improved ownership of assets and productive hours, while training only enhanced business knowledge.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Development Economics·TypeObservational study·DateJul 27, 2022