Articles tagged with Sustainable Development
A research team led by Paolo Falcaro has developed a microporous crystal compound that detects toxic chemical compounds produced when protein-rich foods spoil. The ERC Proof of Concept Grant will explore practical applications for the composite ink, which changes color depending on the concentration of toxic compounds.
Researchers have developed a Zn-decorated GaN nanowire catalyst that efficiently converts CO2 and H2O into methane and hydrogen peroxide under light irradiation. The catalyst achieves high conversion rates with 93.6% selectivity and maintains activity for over 80 hours, providing a practical solution for sustainable fuel production.
Researchers developed a machine learning model using hyperspectral imaging to assess pre-harvest tomato quality, predicting key parameters like weight, firmness, and lycopene content. The approach enables real-time monitoring of fruit development, improving crop quality and reducing waste.
Researchers at Chung-Ang University have developed a novel hydrovoltaic device that can produce up to a few tens of microwatts and responds quickly to evaporation-driven changes in water flow, making it suitable for fire detection. The device also exhibits excellent stability over extended periods.
Researchers developed mucoadhesive films combining xyloglucan and green tea extract to treat oral mucositis, a painful inflammation caused by cancer treatment. The films demonstrated high strength and adhesion forces comparable to commercial products, showing promise as a novel treatment for oral mucositis.
The SMART device has successfully generated its first tokamak plasma, bringing international fusion community closer to achieving sustainable and clean energy. The achievement represents a major step towards the development of compact fusion power plants based on Spherical Tokamaks.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a technology that uses microwaves to produce clean hydrogen in minutes, overcoming limitations of existing methods. By leveraging microwave energy, the team achieved significant breakthroughs in reducing production temperatures and time.
Researchers are exploring halide perovskites, a material that converts sunlight into energy efficiently. The team created distinct properties using ultra-cool methods, enabling mass production of solar cells.
The book, written by University of Illinois professor Lisa J. Lucero, explores the environmentally sustainable practices of the ancient Maya civilization, which has allowed them to persist for millennia despite dramatic changes. The author argues that adopting these techniques can help present-day societies overcome their own unsustain...
The collaboration aims to drive innovation in renewable energy technologies, focusing on advancements in solar, wind, and other new and renewable energy systems. Research efforts will also study microgrid technologies, grid management solutions, and explore energy-efficient buildings and processes.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a stronger, biodegradable adhesive polymer that can replace common superglues. The new polymer, made from P3HB, offers tunable adhesion strength and is biodegradable under various conditions.
A deficiency of TLE6 protein, associated with female infertility, was also linked to abnormal sperm morphology and reduced motility in male mice. The study suggests that TLE6 plays a crucial role in energy production in sperm cells.
A collaborative project between ASU and industry partners aims to develop a regional Direct Air Capture Hub in the Four Corners area, with the goal of removing at least 1 million metric tons of CO2 from the atmosphere each year. The project will also create jobs, stimulate local economies, and support climate change mitigation efforts.
A team of food scientists is developing tempeh products from chickpeas and peas to offset the health risks of a Western diet. The new fermented foods may help with obesity, fatty liver, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Preliminary research suggests they are high in fiber and low in fat.
Research featured in Nature reveals that small-scale fisheries are crucial for meeting Sustainable Development Goals related to hunger, poverty, and climate change. The study found that these operations provide essential nutrients to 2.3 billion people and support the livelihoods of nearly 500 million individuals.
The researchers developed a novel camera-based system that adapts to traffic flow in real-time, ensuring efficient monitoring and resource use. The system's two approaches, the Random-Value-Camera-Level Algorithm and the ALL-Random-With-Weight Algorithm, optimize camera usage and save energy while maintaining reliable surveillance.
The University of Texas at Arlington is developing more efficient processes for sourcing rare earth elements needed to produce high-performance magnets. The project aims to make the mining of these critical materials more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective.
Researchers developed a novel method for carbon fiber recycling that leverages Joule heat generation, thermal stress, and expansion forces to separate fibers without chemicals. The technique is more effective than traditional methods, preserving longer fibers with higher strength and reducing environmental impact.
Researchers emphasize global importance of tree crops for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals, while promoting biodiversity conservation and mitigating climate change. Tree crops provide stable habitats, prevent soil erosion, and contribute to greenhouse gas reduction.
A new study reveals the potential of federal reservoirs to host enough floating solar panels to generate up to 1,476 terawatt hours, or enough energy to power approximately 100 million US homes a year. This could help meet the country's solar energy needs and provide more reliable and resilient energy to the power grid.
A new study by the University of Portsmouth argues that economic development often overshadows human rights, prioritizing profit over the voices of local communities and indigenous peoples. The researchers highlight the need to integrate human rights into international economic law to pave the way for fairer and more sustainable outcomes.
CITEC has announced its inaugural group of subawardees, who will develop innovative technologies for cancer detection and treatment in low-resource settings. The projects focus on improving HPV screening, developing deep learning algorithms for image analysis, and creating affordable microscopes for cancer screening.
A new dual-functional RO membrane has been developed to reduce biofouling in water purification, desalination, and wastewater treatment. The membrane demonstrates broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and resistance to various foulants, making it suitable for a range of applications.
Kyushu University researchers create a microwave flow reaction device that converts complex polysaccharides into simple monosaccharides, producing glucose. The device utilizes a continuous-flow hydrolysis process, where cellobiose is passed through a sulfonated carbon catalyst heated using microwaves.
Researchers from ETH Zurich developed hygroscopic wall and ceiling components that can significantly reduce humidity in heavily used indoor spaces, resulting in a 75% reduction in discomfort index compared to conventional painted walls.
Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed new measurement methods to accurately measure emissions from category-L vehicles in realistic operation. The project results will help law enforcement agencies detect limit violations and manufacturers adapt their fleets.
Experts propose an 18th SDG to protect Earth's orbit from accumulating debris, citing the need for global consensus and mechanisms for enforcement. The proposal builds on earlier calls for a legally-binding treaty to safeguard the planet's orbital environment.
Researchers create a novel material consisting of nanosized ruthenium clusters anchored on graphitized carbon that reacts with ammonia molecules to produce hydrogen and nitrogen. The catalyst becomes more active over time due to atomic-level transformations, enhancing hydrogen production from ammonia.
Researchers have debuted the first comprehensive gene expression atlas of the plant periderm at the single-cell level, providing new insights into phellem cells and their role in carbon storage. The atlas could be used to stimulate growth of the protective periderm in plants facing environmental stress due to climate change.
A new smart window technology combines liquid crystals with nanoporous microparticles and a patterned vanadium dioxide layer to simultaneously control visible light and infrared radiation. The device offers fast, efficient heat and visibility management, marking a significant step forward in energy-efficient building design.
MIT engineers developed a nanofiltration process to capture aluminum ions from cryolite waste, reducing hazardous waste and improving efficiency. The membrane selectively captured over 99% of aluminum ions, enabling the recovery of aluminum and reducing the need for new mining.
Researchers at Rice University have created a sustainable way to integrate chlorine into chemical building blocks, reducing costs and environmental impact. The new process uses iron and sulfur catalysts activated by mild blue light, eliminating harsh chemicals and high temperatures.
Researchers developed a heterogeneous catalytic system to depolymerize polyurethane waste into diamines, diols, and lactones. The resulting intermediates were then converted into functional polymers, including energy-storage-capable polyimide and chemically recyclable polylactone.
A POSTECH research team developed a groundbreaking strategy to enhance LLO material durability, extending battery lifespan by up to 84.3% after 700 cycles. The breakthrough addresses capacity fading and voltage decay issues.
The S2Cool project aims to design and develop a Novel Indirect Evaporative Cooler (NIEC) that addresses the constraints of current IEC systems through simplified design and optimised airflow. The technology has the potential to deliver transformative benefits, including up to 65% energy savings and significant reductions in CO2 emissions.
A new cryptographic framework proposes a data sharing scheme that guarantees data integrity without compromising privacy. The protocol uses advanced tools like zero-knowledge proofs to ensure confidentiality and facilitate the analysis of encrypted data.
Researchers have developed a new sodium-ion battery material that improves performance by 15% and increases energy density to 458 Wh/kg. The material, Na x V2(PO4)3, allows for stable operation and continuous voltage change, making it a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
A recent study found that socioeconomic inequalities trap local governments in a cycle of limited resources, rising inequality, and declining capacity to meet citizens' needs. Strategic, targeted interventions are necessary to break the cycle of inequality and enhance public satisfaction with local governance.
Researchers are developing new ways to harvest and adapt energy from everyday home activities, such as turning a doorknob or opening a fridge door. This technology aims to create smart interfaces that can power appliances and assist people with disabilities, increasing energy efficiency and accessibility.
The Global Young Academy Asian Event-Global π Roundtable 2024 brought together experts to discuss strategies for addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. The event explored topics such as resilient cities, mineral resources, and the integration of art and culture in scientific communication.
Scientists create a natural polysaccharide-based edible coating that replaces synthetic packaging, extending shelf life while reducing global food waste. The biofilm shows improved mechanical strength, antioxidant properties, and antibacterial activity, making it an eco-friendly solution to address food waste issues.
Over 260 young scientists from around the world have signed a declaration at Wenzhou, China, to promote sustainable innovation. The Wenzhou Declaration emphasizes the importance of leveraging science, technology, and innovation to tackle global challenges and create a resilient future.
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo have identified key factors driving photochemical water oxidation. By fine-tuning reaction potential and pH conditions, they enhance the efficiency of this process, paving the way for more sustainable energy solutions.
Research by Charan van Krevel finds that poor investments in resource-rich countries are caused by systemic issues, not just apathy or lack of will. Effective sustainable development is hindered by corporate skimming off profits, leaving little for future generations.
The integration of ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems with energy piles offers a promising solution to address the growing urban heat island effect and reduce electricity consumption in smart cities. This technology provides efficient heating and cooling, reduces carbon emissions, and promotes sustainable urban development.
Researchers have developed a 3D concrete printing system that captures and stores carbon dioxide, offering a promising alternative to traditional cement-based construction methods. The innovation improves printability, increases strength, and enhances mechanical properties, resulting in stronger and more eco-friendly buildings.
Combining AI and citizen science enhances SDG monitoring and achievement by addressing data gaps and biases. Successful applications have been demonstrated in addressing environmental indicators, good health, sustainable cities, life below water, and life on land. The integration of these approaches can create synergies to address sust...
Key findings include the urgent need for technological advancements in power generation, transportation, and materials to reduce GHG emissions. Additionally, the authors propose innovative agricultural practices and AI-powered clean energy solutions to promote sustainable development.
A new study from the University of Surrey found that multinational enterprises (MNEs) are actively contributing to environmental problems despite claiming to address them. The research team argues that there is an urgent need for MNEs to reassess their innovation strategies to align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
A new study reveals insights into leveraging allele dosages in sweetpotato breeding practices to improve key agricultural traits. Researchers found that differences in allele dosage significantly impact root weight, plant architecture, and flesh color.
A nationwide analysis of Japan's plastic litter removal from rivers found that natural disasters and extreme weather events contribute to spikes in collected plastic waste. The study, led by Tokyo University of Science, also identified positive correlations between basin population, plastic litter recovery, and cleanup activities.
The ARC will promote research groups and consolidate others to control greening, especially in areas not currently covered. The center aims to mitigate the disease's impact on citrus production, which has declined by 36.5% and fruit production costs are approximately 20% higher.
Finland's approach to Public-Private Collaboration enables effective addressing of complex issues like the energy transition through coordinated efforts among stakeholders. The Vaasa region, with its unique ecosystem orchestrations agency, drives innovation towards sustainable innovations.
The 2025 Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prizes were awarded to four female and six male researchers, with two working in the humanities and social sciences, four in life sciences, three in natural sciences, and one in engineering sciences. The winners received €2.5 million each to fund their research for up to seven years.
Five Texas researchers have been honored with the 2025 Edith and Peter O'Donnell Awards for their innovative breakthroughs in small cell lung cancer, lithium-ion battery technology, and galaxy discovery. Lauren Averett Byers is being recognized for her work on novel therapeutic strategies for SCLC, while Caitlin M. Casey is exploring p...
A new report from Simon Fraser University recommends building mass utility-scale solar mega-projects to diversify Canada's energy mix and reduce reliance on hydroelectric power. The study suggests that prioritizing rapid deployment of utility-scale projects in optimal sunlight locations can have a transformative effect on the electrici...
Chris Johnson, a senior chemist at Argonne National Laboratory, has been elected as a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) for his significant contributions to battery science. He pioneered the development of nickel-manganese-cobalt cathode materials and has published over 150 scientific papers on emerging sodium-ion batte...
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a novel fuel cell electrolyte concept using phosphonic acid polymers with hydrocarbon spacers. The new membrane exhibits improved water insolubility, chemical stability and conductivity under high-temperature and low-humidity conditions.
A research team led by Professor Jung Inn Sohn from Dongguk University developed a gel polymer electrode-based triboelectric nanogenerator (GPE-TENG) with stretchable, semi-transparent, and durable properties. The device generates electrical signals when tapped or stretched, delivering a peak power of 0.36 W/m² at a load of 15 MΩ.