Global cities have made significant progress in increasing physical greenspace coverage and reducing inequality in human exposure to urban greenspaces. The study found a marked reduction in greenspace exposure inequality over the past two decades, with faster rates of reduction in developing countries.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2023
A new hybrid method developed by Concordia researchers combines data from Weibull probability distribution and numerical weather prediction models to improve wind speed forecasting accuracy. This innovation has the potential to significantly enhance urban power generation, particularly in areas with high variability in wind speeds.
SourceConcordia University·JournalEnergies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 31, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Researchers developed an AI-powered method to measure urban decay using street view images, identifying object classes like potholes and graffiti. The model showed promise in detecting urban decline in cities like San Francisco and Mexico City, with potential applications for informing urban policy and planning.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2023
A new study found that residents of neighborhoods with more greenspace tend to have longer telomeres, indicating better cellular health. However, the positive impact of greenspace is not enough to compensate for other environmental challenges like air pollution and racial segregation.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 18, 2023
Researchers found that city-scale building energy use in US cities may increase by 13.8% for each degree of climate warming on average. The largest increase is expected in the South and Southwest regions, where electricity EUI will rise up to 7.2%.
SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 18, 2023
The UCLA Mobility Center of Excellence will conduct research on the impacts of new mobility technologies and highly automated vehicles on transportation systems. The center aims to improve efficiency, mobility, and sustainability by studying the long-term effects of emerging mobility technologies.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateOct 17, 2023
A new study by Caroline Hachem-Vermette and Kuljeet Singh analyzed the design and energy characteristics of various neighborhoods to assess their vulnerabilities to power outages. The researchers found that thoughtful design can reduce a neighborhood's energy vulnerability during disruptions, and they recommend modifications to shelter...
SourceConcordia University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 3, 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.
A researcher from Göttingen University advises on overcoming difficulties faced by mining communities in transition, suggesting a three-step approach centered around stakeholder collaboration. This approach combines early planning, local-based solutions, and targeted investments to foster economic and workforce transformation.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Energy·TypeObservational study·DateOct 2, 2023
A new ecological theory may help explain the persistence of segregation in US cities. The theory, called the 'adaptive resilience cycle,' emphasizes how systems adjust to shocks and retain their structure. Researchers analyzed Baltimore's history and found that this cycle has reinforced segregation throughout the city's history.
SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalBuildings and Cities·DateSep 26, 2023
A study found that gentrified neighborhoods have a 62% higher firearm injury incidence rate than non-gentrified communities. The researchers identified gentrification as a key factor contributing to the increased risk of firearm violence in these areas.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2023
The Resilience Justice Project at Brandeis School of Law will examine how eight US coastal cities ensure climate adaptation plans are fair and equitable. The team aims to produce a guidebook of best practices and webinars to help cities adapt planning for all neighborhoods.
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.
Researchers from the University of Surrey's Global Centre for Clean Air Research found that nature-based locations can cool urban areas by up to 3°C during heatwaves. The team recommends planting trees in public spaces, especially around schools, to help tackle the urban heat island effect.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnvironment International·DateSep 18, 2023
A study from the Complexity Science Hub reveals that rare shops and services in urban locations can bring people of different socio-economic backgrounds together. Researchers found that neighborhoods offering a range of unique amenities, like zoos or cinemas, tend to attract more diverse audiences. This understanding can inform policy ...
SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalEPJ Data Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 18, 2023
Researchers at Osaka University develop a method to train AI models using simulated city images, reducing the need for real data and saving human effort. The approach generates realistic images with accurate ground truth labels, addressing instance segmentation challenges.
SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Engineering Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 14, 2023
A new UBC study used a local restorative nature index to assess the healing qualities of green space, finding that areas with the greatest need for restorative nature often have the least exposure to it. The study suggests that urban planners prioritize areas with high socioeconomic vulnerability and limited access to green spaces.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAMBIO·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023
A new field campaign, CoURAGE, will investigate the influence of surface-atmosphere interactions around Baltimore, Maryland, on its climate. The campaign aims to provide sound evidence for climate change mitigation options, such as urban greening, and partner with neighborhoods that have been historically neglected.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers from Japan and Canada explore how built environment enables walking behavior, finding that destinations strengthen the relationship between street integration and transportation walking. The study reveals that designing well-connected street layouts with easy access to amenities encourages walking.
SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateAug 30, 2023
Skateboarders possess a unique sensory knowledge of cities, which can help mediate conflicts between those who enjoy and those who dislike the sport's sounds. By paying attention to sound, individuals can gain 'sonic' agency over spaces in the city.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Senses and Society·DateAug 30, 2023
A recent MU study found that health and healthcare organizations are increasingly offering basic social services, such as transportation, housing, food, and mental health support, to address disparities in health outcomes. The research team explored innovative solutions implemented by care coordinators and social services to help overc...
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProfessional Case Management·TypeSurvey·DateAug 28, 2023
Researchers found 27 million cubic meters of sediment moved through Houston waterways, equivalent to 40% of the Mississippi River's annual discharge. The study suggests river straightening can exacerbate sediment bypass, decreasing reservoir holding capacities by up to 1.6%
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.
Researchers from FAU will examine the effects of smoke-related air pollution on social isolation, cognitive function and risk of Alzheimer's disease in rural residents along Lake Okeechobee. The five-year study aims to promote early awareness of the disease and earlier modification of associated risk factors.
A new study reveals massive urban expansions throughout the contiguous US, particularly on the Atlantic Coast, have led to significant tidal flat erosion. The research highlights the critical impact of human activities on tidal flat environments, providing important implications for coastal land use and planning.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023
A new framework by Concordia researchers shows that electrifying bus fleets can lead to significant reductions in greenhouse-gas emissions and maintenance costs. The study analyzed four Canadian cities and found a 18.7-34.6% reduction in cumulative GHG emissions from 2019 to 2030
SourceConcordia University·JournalTransportation Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 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.
Researchers found that increasing plant diversity in urban areas leads to a large increase in insect biodiversity and interactions. The study confirmed the ecological benefits of urban greening projects by transforming a small greenspace into a habitat for indigenous insect species.
SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2023
Research from the University of Gothenburg reveals that both innate factors and environmental influences contribute to an individual's attitude towards nature. The study suggests that a wide range of factors shape how people express their love for nature, and emphasizes the importance of considering these variations in urban planning.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 17, 2023
New research from the University of Ottawa's Telfer School of Management suggests that managing public transit projects requires a comprehensive approach considering rational, psychosocial, and political dimensions. This involves engaging stakeholders, including non-users, to ensure societal impact and cost-effectiveness.
SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalIEEE Transactions on Engineering Management·TypeCase study·DateAug 17, 2023
A study found that urban great tits have paler plumage than their forest-living counterparts due to inadequate carotenoid intake from city diets. Researchers suggest planting native trees and plants can help provide a healthy diet for these birds.
SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateAug 16, 2023
A UK-Sri Lankan research network aimed to develop research capacities among senior academic staff members from both countries. The training network investigated differences, overlaps, and synergies between Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) research communities.
SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 8, 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 from Finland and international partners applied the doughnut model to transport, finding that it can help balance social and environmental needs. The study highlights the need for metrics that consider both travel time and wider effects on the environment.
SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalTransport Reviews·DateAug 3, 2023
A study by Ohio State University researchers uses mobile cameras installed on campus buses to count vehicles, detect objects in the road, and track movements. The AI-powered YOLOv4 model provides accurate measurements with high spatial and temporal coverage, which could enhance current traffic systems and improve efficiency.
A recent study suggests that ancient Mesoamerican cities, such as Caracol and Teotihuacan, withstood environmental challenges like drought and earthquakes due to their advanced infrastructure and socio-economic systems. These cities' resiliency is often overlooked in historical accounts of their collapse.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 24, 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.
A study found that activity-friendly neighborhoods with destinations, walkability, and amenities reduce the likelihood of metabolic syndrome. Residing in such areas encourages physical activity, social interaction, and reduces reliance on cars.
SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateJul 24, 2023
Researchers use virtual reality to simulate urban scenarios, allowing them to measure the implicit effects of urban planning measures on human stress levels. The method has shown that higher traffic volumes can upset test subjects, paving the way for more climate-friendly and inclusive urban planning.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2023
A new study finds that living in neighborhoods with higher air pollution, lower walkability, and density are associated with a greater incidence rate of hospitalization due to COVID-19. Neighborhoods with higher public transit quality and access also show a higher incidence rate of hospitalization.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 14, 2023
A Simon Fraser University study found that Vancouver struggles to adopt green infrastructure due to political, organizational, and funding barriers. The city lacks consistent funding and support for GI initiatives, and most projects are implemented on public land with minimal ownership control.
SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalUrban Water Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 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.
A Northwestern University study links underground climate change to shifting ground beneath urban areas, causing building foundations and surrounding ground to move excessively and crack. The researchers also found that past building damage may have been caused by rising temperatures, which will continue for years to come.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCommunications Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 11, 2023
Researchers argue that 'The Line' should not be a showcase for future cities due to its unfeasible urban design, including extremely high population density and limited mobility. The city's planned 60-minute average commute times highlight the importance of efficient transportation systems in urban planning.
SourceComplexity Science Hub·Journalnpj Urban Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 27, 2023
A study published in Health & Place found that walkable neighborhoods foster social interactions with neighbors, promoting a sense of community. Researchers analyzed data from 1,745 adults living in Seattle, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., revealing that these environments encourage active behaviors like walking and socializing.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalHealth & Place·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 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.
A study of 278 urban climate action plans (CAPs) since 2015 found that most focus on transportation, energy, and buildings, with a growing emphasis on mitigation and adaptation. The plans often lack co-benefits analysis and transparency, hindering effective implementation.
SourceHiroshima University·JournalUrban Climate·DateJun 20, 2023
A new study evaluates the success of migration as adaptation in the face of climate change. The research highlights trade-offs between well-being, equity and sustainability for migrants and their households. It suggests that creating an enabling policy environment is crucial to support successful migration as adaptation.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 16, 2023
Professor Lapointe suggests treating certain types of wastewater with passive, modular, and decentralized solutions, reducing techno-economic barriers. These solutions include bioretention cells, aggregate-decant systems, and seepage areas through functionalized soils.
SourceÉcole de technologie supérieure·JournalNature Water·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 13, 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.
A recent study of 106,000 births in New York City found that neighborhoods with healthier food options had lower rates of small for gestational age births. Higher densities of unhealthy food retail establishments were linked to increased risks of large or small-for-age birth weights.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 12, 2023
A Brazilian study combined urban expansion and land-use changes with hydrodynamic models to identify flood-prone areas of cities. The methodology, validated using actual data for São Caetano do Sul, can be used by other cities to devise public policies and make decisions to address flooding impacts.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalWater·DateJun 12, 2023
A new metric, space syntax walkability index, is proposed to address limitations in linking cardio-metabolic risk factors to the built environment. The study found that walkability in urban areas is linked to cardio-metabolic risk factors, including blood pressure and obesity.
SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJun 9, 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.
A study in Brazilian cities highlights the need for adapted nature-based solutions (NbS) to address environmental inequality. Municipal administrators are aware of NbS, but lack clarity on how to prioritize decision-making.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·TypeSurvey·DateJun 1, 2023
A new study from the University of Waterloo highlights four strategies to enhance equity and justice in climate action planning: modifying strategies, designing collaborative spaces, addressing gaps between words and actions, and considering underlying social processes. By prioritizing vulnerable populations and local actors, urban gov...
SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPlanning Theory & Practice·DateMay 31, 2023
A new study found that strategic city planning can reduce the urban heat island effect by using trees, taller buildings with shade-providing effects, and pavement with high albedo levels. These design strategies can help create more comfortable thermal conditions in cities, especially for low-income communities and vulnerable populations.
A new study found that establishing a wildflower meadow in the historic grounds of King's College, Cambridge increased species richness and abundance by three times compared to adjacent lawn. The meadow also reduced greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 1.36 tonnes CO2-e per hectare per year.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·TypeSurvey·DateMay 23, 2023
Researchers found that tree coverage and high-albedo pavement significantly reduced mean radiant temperatures, improving thermal comfort levels in urban areas. The study suggests incorporating trees and pavement design elements into city planning to mitigate the urban heat island effect.
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.
A laboratory study found that exposure to background traffic noise, even at 40 dB, significantly impairs concentration and perceived workload. Researchers also highlight the difficulties in avoiding high-frequency noise indoors due to reduced vehicle speeds.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023
A study of 700 participants found that time outdoors doesn't always reduce smartphone screentime. However, visits to nature reserves or forests saw significant declines in screentime compared to urban locations. Participants who visited wilder areas spent more time disconnected from their smartphones and regained attention.
SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2023
Researchers at York University found more pathogens and parasites in urban bee populations, leading to inbreeding and reduced genetic diversity. Conservation efforts focused on green spaces and habitat connectors can help mitigate these effects.
SourceYork University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 14, 2023
A new metric, called the carbon storage (CS) factor, enables urban planners to evaluate how a new development will affect the city's carbon balance. By using the right kind of wooden construction technologies, up to 70% of future construction can preserve lost forest carbon storage capacity.
SourceAalto University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 9, 2023
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 Florida Atlantic University will investigate the links between multimodal transportation, climate adaptation and resilience. The center aims to promote transit access, sustainable communities and resilient development.
Researchers at Drexel University developed a machine learning model to predict Philadelphia's future energy use based on zoning decisions and building characteristics. The model uses two machine learning programs to tease out patterns from massive datasets and make projections about future energy consumption.
SourceDrexel University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 4, 2023
Research reveals that urban bird species are generally smaller, less territorial, and have greater ability to fly long distances. They also have broader dietary and habitat niches, lay more eggs at a time, live longer, and inhabit wider elevations compared to other species.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCurrent Biology·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.
A study by the University of Helsinki identifies nature-based solutions that work best as carbon sinks and for biodiversity conservation in urban areas. Community engagement is vital to ensure acceptable plans, according to the researchers.
A study in urban Appleton, Wisconsin, reveals that actively managed green spaces with native wildflowers support higher bee populations. By incorporating native species into urban landscaping, communities can promote biodiversity and enhance local ecosystems.
The University of Sheffield suggests policymakers offer financial incentives to encourage sustainable gardening practices, promoting greener gardens and boosting community health. Well-planted gardens provide habitats for wildlife, improve air quality, and reduce energy bills.
SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateApr 19, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A new study found that neighborhood attachment is positively associated with people's walking behavior and physical activity. Place attachment, a person's emotional and functional relationship with their surroundings, influences the likelihood of engaging in outdoor activities like walking.
SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateApr 18, 2023