Researchers at KAIST have developed high-performance strains producing a variety of compounds, including succinic acid, biodegradable plastics, and biofuels. They provide insights into advancements in polyamide monomer production and synthesizing bio-based polyamides through chemical conversion.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalTrends in Chemistry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 25, 2023
A team at Hokkaido University has developed a method to reuse plastic waste while improving process safety and efficiency. The approach uses common plastic materials to initiate radical chain reactions, detoxifying hazardous chemicals and reducing toxicity.
SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 24, 2023
Researchers discovered traces of sunscreen agents in Arctic snow, with highest concentrations found in winter. The study suggests these contaminants are transported from lower latitudes via atmospheric circulation.
SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateDec 20, 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.
A new study highlights the wide range of urban exposures during early childhood that can influence growth and development, including air and noise pollution, overcrowding, and limited green space. The first 2000 days of life are a critical period for physical, cognitive, social, and emotional health outcomes.
SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPublic Health Research & Practice·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 20, 2023
Researchers Dr. Maisa Rojas and Marco Billi propose a new model of governance to address climate change in Chile, prioritizing social justice and ecological order. This approach aims to mitigate the effects of climate change on vulnerable groups and promote transformative change.
SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 19, 2023
Researchers in Chile developed a prototype using microorganisms to remove VOCs and PAHs from indoor air, achieving efficiencies above 90%. The system can operate for 8 months without losing efficiency. This breakthrough offers a potentially low-cost solution to improve indoor air quality.
SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateDec 19, 2023
A study published in Nature Communications reveals the Third Pole is vulnerable to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) due to climate change, with 1,499 lakes at high risk. The research estimates that 190,000 lives are directly exposed to GLOF paths and $55 billion worth of infrastructure is threatened.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 2023
Erle Ellis, professor of geography and environmental systems, argues that human societies have developed unprecedented capabilities to scale up and transform ecological systems. However, these advancements often come with negative environmental consequences, such as climate change and species extinctions.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 14, 2023
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 recent study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology examines the effects of climate change on various allergic conditions, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and seasonal allergies. The research suggests that environmental warming can lead to longer-lasting pollen seasons and increased T2 inflammation.
SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateDec 13, 2023
A new USC study suggests that changing labels of vegan food to focus on health and environmental benefits may encourage people to eat less red meat and dairy. By labeling the basket as "healthy" and/or "sustainable," Americans are more likely to choose it, with an increase in sales, according to the research.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023
A Washington State University study reveals that high-elevation snow in the Pacific Northwest is melting earlier due to frequent and intense heatwaves. The researchers found that these heatwaves have doubled in frequency and intensity since the mid-1990s, posing a significant threat to the region's water supply.
SourceWashington State University·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateDec 13, 2023
The FAU Microbiome Innovation Center will develop a new curriculum in wholistic plant health and create a culture collection of indigenous beneficial bacteria. The grant will procure a bench top DNA sequencer to drive development of the curated collection, which will become a valuable asset in customizing probiotics for specific plants.
Miniaturized electrochemical sensors offer low-cost, time-efficient analysis and high specificity and sensitivity for toxic heavy metal detection. However, limitations in selectivity, detail, and interference by foreign species hinder on-site analysis.
SourcePusan National University·JournalCoordination Chemistry Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 12, 2023
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.
Researchers found that Ukrainian-controlled territories gained forest area despite military conflict, while Russian-controlled territories experienced significant forest loss. The study highlights the impact of modern warfare on environmental sustainability and conservation in Ukraine's Emerald Network.
SourceDa Vinci Labs·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2023
A Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute study found a strong link between higher prenatal PFAS exposure and increased rates of obesity and body fat in adolescent offspring. Higher levels of certain PFAS were associated with a 13-59% increase in the risk of obesity, highlighting the long-term consequences of PFAS for developmental health.
SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateDec 6, 2023
A research team from the University of Waterloo developed an AI tool called PlasticNet to identify microplastics with unprecedented speed and accuracy. This system enables researchers to rapidly analyze large numbers of particles, reducing the time and error associated with manual identification, and providing quality information for i...
SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateDec 5, 2023
A recent study warns that children should be taught more about the importance of plants in promoting awareness of climate change and sustainability. The study argues that botany should be a greater focus of educational policy, with teachers receiving support and training to challenge their existing assumptions about plants.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Biological Education·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 1, 2023
A study by UNICAMP researchers found high concentrations of contaminants in the Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí River Basin, including PFAS compounds, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. The study highlights the severity of pollution in the region, which supplies water for drinking, irrigation, and industry.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemosphere·DateNov 30, 2023
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 in Panama have created a novel insulation material using rice husk and cellulose, reducing plastic consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The material has competitive thermal conductivity compared to natural and recycled insulation materials.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Built Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023
Researchers are working to better understand and reduce the health risks associated with mercury use in artisanal and small-scale gold mining. A new approach has been piloted, which can help reduce mercury emissions in these mines.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalCleaner Production Letters·DateNov 29, 2023
Research shows DFW air quality continues to exceed EPA safety levels, primarily due to auto emissions from Dallas County, affecting both counties. The study's findings highlight the need for improved transportation systems and stricter regulations to mitigate poor air quality.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalTalanta·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2023
A study found nearly a third of mine tailings are stored within or near protected conservation areas, posing an enormous risk to biodiversity. Mine wastes threaten habitats in protected areas worldwide, including Australia's Atlantic Forest and Brazilian ecosystems.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 27, 2023
The Green Climate Fund has struggled to mobilize financial resources from the private sector, with only a small share of its $40 billion budget coming from private sources. A new study suggests that this is due to perceptions of unprofitable investments and lack of attractive business models, particularly in climate adaptation.
SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalClimate Policy·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 27, 2023
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.
A study analyzing European Parliament politicians' views on degrowth and green growth reveals a surprising lack of consensus on both sides. Despite its popularity among centre-right MEPs, green growth is seen as a more divisive concept than previously thought, with no clear majority supporting it.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeSurvey·DateNov 17, 2023
Researchers found that a more complex climate model projects stronger and sustained carbon uptake by plants until the end of the 21st century. This could lead to a larger impact on mitigating climate change through nature-based solutions like reforestation.
SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 17, 2023
Research by the University of Exeter reveals that those with authoritarian political views are more concerned about terrorism and border control than new health pandemics. This study suggests COVID-19 does not disproportionately affect authoritarian concern for social divisions in British society.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPolitics and the Life Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateNov 16, 2023
Scientists have developed a new method to investigate the deposition and impact of microplastics in soil, using neutron and X-ray tomography. The technique allows for the precise location of microplastic particles and analysis of changes to soil structure, shedding light on the environmental implications of microplastic pollution.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2023
A new study from the University of Oxford found that bumblebees cannot taste pesticides in nectar, even at lethal concentrations. Bees rely on taste to avoid contaminated nectar, which poses a significant threat to their survival.
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 new study by University of Exeter researchers predicts which regions will be colonized by non-native birds, mammals, and plants. The study found that suitable habitats, dispersal ability, and history of introduction are key predictors of spread.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2023
Researchers at Princeton University found that an ammonia economy can help achieve decarbonization goals, but it poses risks if not managed properly. The widespread use of ammonia could lead to significant emissions of nitrous oxide and nitrogen oxides, affecting air quality, water quality, and ecosystems.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 13, 2023
Research suggests that diverse forests can capture approximately 226 Gigatonnes of carbon, but this potential can be achieved by incentivizing community-driven efforts to promote biodiversity. Restoration efforts should include natural diversity of species and sustainable practices.
A recent study published in ScienceDirect found hundreds of toxic chemicals in recycled plastic pellets from 13 countries. The findings highlight the risks associated with recycling plastics and the need to phase out harmful chemicals. The researchers urge policymakers to take action to limit hazardous chemicals in plastics.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalData in Brief·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023
A team of international scientists cautions that reliance on mechanical cleanup devices to address plastic pollution is ineffective and may even harm marine life. They argue that reducing plastic production and consumption is the most cost-effective way to prevent further pollution.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalOne Earth·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 9, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A systematic review found that climate change-related concerns are linked to less positive attitudes towards reproduction and a desire for fewer children or none at all. The study identified four key factors: uncertainty about the future of an unborn child, environmentalist views on overpopulation and overconsumption, meeting family su...
SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 9, 2023
Researchers emphasize the need for a holistic approach to tackle plastic pollution, prioritizing 'upstream' issues such as reducing production and consumption of plastics. The treaty should prioritize early interventions, focusing on ecosystems and chemical simplification.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·DateNov 9, 2023
A group of 35 scientists calls out conflicts of interest in global plastic treaty negotiations, which have hindered timely action on health and environmental issues. They recommend implementing guidelines to prevent industry influence on the UN's Science Policy Panel on chemicals, citing past examples of pollution protection dilution.
SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 9, 2023
Rotifers, microscopic zooplankton found in ocean and freshwater, break down microplastics into nanoplastics. This process creates massive amounts of nanoparticles, posing unknown risks to the environment and human health.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 9, 2023
A study of European river systems from 1969-2020 found that freshwater biodiversity improved until the 2000s but stagnated since then. The researchers attribute this decline to diminishing effectiveness of existing measures and emergence of new pollutants, climate change, and invasive species.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature·DateNov 7, 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.
A University of Houston research team integrated machine learning with SHAP analysis to identify the city's air pollution sources more accurately. The study found that the oil and gas industry had the highest impact on emissions, while shortwave radiation and relative humidity were key influencing factors for overall ozone concentration.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateNov 6, 2023
Research at Purdue University shows that microplastics affect zooplankton's ability to feed on algae, leading to increased algal densities and potential toxin release. This study highlights the ecological impacts of plastics on aquatic food webs and emphasizes the need for further research.
SourcePurdue University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2023
A survey of social media posts suggests that people are more positive about nature-based efforts to protect carbon-storing ecosystems than human technological solutions. The study found that tree-planting solutions, such as afforestation, received the most approval, while geoengineering was associated with negative sentiments.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 3, 2023
A recent study reveals that media narratives significantly influence public awareness of microplastics, with certain narratives increasing awareness and others having little effect. The study also found a positive correlation between age and increased awareness of microplastics.
A new study reveals that consumers place a higher value on products from circular economies due to the concept of psychological ownership. This finding suggests that businesses and policymakers can align strategies with consumer values to promote sustainable initiatives.
SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 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.
Scientists from Japan create a new, more efficient form of liquefied stabilized soil from construction waste that can fill narrow spaces and be pumped over long distances. The material has improved flowability and lower environmental impact, making it suitable for large-scale civil engineering projects.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalRecycling·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2023
A new study led by University of Maryland Professor Sujay Kaushal reveals that human activities are making the planet's air, soil, and freshwater increasingly salty. This acceleration of the natural salt cycle poses an 'existential threat' to ecosystems and human health if current trends continue.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 31, 2023
A new study found that killer whales' diets, rather than location, are more important for pollutant exposure. The research analyzed blubber samples from 162 North Atlantic killer whales and discovered varying diet compositions caused striking differences in contaminant concentrations.
SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 30, 2023
Researchers have introduced a new technique for detecting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water samples using interrupted energy transfer. The detection limit is in the µg/l range, making it suitable for on-site testing in highly contaminated regions.
SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2023
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.
Researchers found that most allegedly biodegradable plastic items sold by Brazilian supermarkets are actually oxo-degradable plastics banned in several countries. The products cost 125% more than conventional alternatives and failed to meet minimum requirements for genuine biodegradability.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·DateOct 26, 2023
The Human Right to Environment affirms the right to life itself, securing human health and wellbeing when humans protect nature. The recognition of this right drives governmental enforcement of environmental protection norms, requiring systemic change to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
SourceIOS Press·JournalEnvironmental Policy and Law·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 26, 2023
Chinese researchers are exploring advanced porous nanomaterials and technologies to reduce radionuclide discharge into the environment. These materials possess high specific surface area, abundant pore structures, exceptional stability, and design flexibility, making them promising candidates for radionuclide removal.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalEco-Environment & Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 24, 2023
A new UN-led study reveals that Bitcoin mining has a significant impact on land and water resources, with China and the US having the largest footprints. The study found that Bitcoin mining consumed 173 terawatt hours of electricity in 2020-2021, emitting 86 megatons of carbon.
SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalEarth s Future·DateOct 24, 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.
Researchers at West Virginia University are studying the effects of acid rain on forests and watersheds, a project involving middle school students. The team aims to understand how ecosystems respond to chronic changes in environmental conditions, including the recovery phase after acid rain stops falling.
A new UN study finds that global Bitcoin mining activities have substantial water and land footprints in addition to a significant carbon footprint. The top 10 Bitcoin mining countries are responsible for 92-94% of the global environmental impact.
SourceUnited Nations University·JournalEarth s Future·DateOct 24, 2023
An international team of scientists has updated its influential report, warning that life on Earth is under siege due to climate change. The authors track 35 vital signs and find 20 at record extremes, including rising temperatures, wildfires, and food insecurity affecting 735 million people.
SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 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.
Juvenile crown-of-thorns starfish can withstand heatwaves that kill coral, developing into carnivorous predators. The species' resilience to warming waters exacerbates climate change's impact on coral reefs.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 18, 2023
A WVU team is providing free technical assistance to local industrial facilities to reduce their impact on environmental and community health. The project aims to support businesses in making changes that benefit their communities while maintaining profitability.
A new study reveals that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is linked to accelerated BMI gain in children from birth to nine years old. The study found that certain mixtures of these chemicals increase the risk of childhood obesity and its related health consequences.
SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateOct 18, 2023
A study of 340,000 pregnant women in southern California found a significant association between long-term exposure to antepartum and postpartum air pollution and increased risks of postpartum depression. The findings highlight the importance of identifying modifiable environmental risk factors to improve maternal mental health.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 18, 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.
A new study suggests that rebates can offer solutions to California's groundwater woes by incentivizing the collection of stormwater runoff and its infiltration into aquifers. The recharge net metering (ReNeM) program, modeled after rooftop solar metering, helps agencies meet Sustainable Groundwater Management Act requirements.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Water·DateOct 18, 2023
Researchers found that adding a social cost to carbon emissions leads to a significant reduction in fertilizer runoff, resulting in improved water quality and a decrease in the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone. The study suggests that implementing a carbon price can help meet the US commitment to the Paris Accord while improving water quality.
SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2023