Articles tagged with Sustainable Development
The SpaceX CRS-31 mission to the International Space Station includes studies on in-space manufacturing, cardiac health, and a method for repairing spacecraft damaged by debris. Multiple payloads sponsored by the ISS National Laboratory are bound for the orbiting outpost.
Researchers developed a new mantle-flow model explaining the puzzling deformation of the North China Craton, citing subduction and flat-slab subduction as key factors. The study sheds light on cratons' life cycle and geological processes, potentially leading to a more sustainable future.
A new chromosome-scale reference genome of grass pea has been published, improving on earlier draft assemblies and offering potential for climate-smart agriculture. The updated genome allows for improved breeding and gene editing to develop varieties with improved agronomic characteristics or low toxin content.
David Abraham, Rice University lecturer and research scientist, was honored for his work in fostering sustainable urban development and climate resilience. He launched Houston's first community resilience portal and directed a flood resilience plan after Hurricane Harvey, showcasing his commitment to building resilient communities.
Researchers at PIK found that three sustainable development pathways are far more effective than current 'business as usual' strategies, driving progress towards SDGs while curbing global warming and environmental degradation. The pathways include a rapid shift to plant-based nutrition and reduced energy use per capita.
The University of Kansas and Avium will develop new catalysts and technologies to improve the efficiency and reliability of green hydrogen production. The goal is to make clean hydrogen more affordable and support the transition to a clean-energy future.
Rice University researchers developed an electrochemical reactor to reduce energy consumption in direct air capture. The new design has achieved industrially relevant rates of carbon dioxide regeneration and offers flexibility, scalability, and lower capital costs.
Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered unique lipids in sorghum that have anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. The study suggests that incorporating sorghum into diets could promote cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and enhance metabolic health.
A machine learning model predicts soil behavior during earthquakes, identifying areas vulnerable to liquefaction and providing contour maps for safer construction sites. The study uses geological data to create detailed 3D maps of soil layers, improving prediction accuracy by 20%.
A new co-culture system uses photosynthetic microorganisms to remove waste products and enhance muscle cell growth, resulting in a 30% reduction of lactate and over 90% reduction of ammonia. This innovation provides a low-cost, sustainable alternative to animal serum for cultured meat production.
Understanding plant-to-plant communication through VOCs can lead to innovative strategies for crop protection and yield improvement, potentially revolutionizing sustainable agriculture. This review explores the molecular pathways behind this complex biochemical strategy and its potential applications.
The Flexible Clean Propulsion Technologies project aims to develop innovative clean solutions for maritime transport and off-road machinery, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 100% through the use of zero- and low-carbon fuels. The consortium brings together key players in Finland and international partners to shape the future ...
Researchers found that the presence of a fungus increases the pH of the soil, promoting growth of beneficial bacteria. This interaction could lead to sustainable agricultural practices by harnessing microbial interactions to combat plant diseases.
A comprehensive assessment of human activity in the Arctic reveals that over 5% of the region is affected by light pollution, with an annual increase of 4.8%. The study highlights the critical need for monitoring and planning to support sustainable development and conservation in the Arctic.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that households with older heads produce nearly twice as much food waste, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Vegetables were found to be the most wasted food type, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
A new method uses principal components-based feature generation and optimized Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to estimate the State of Charge (SoC) in LiFePO4 batteries. This approach improves the accuracy and robustness of existing SoC estimation methods, enabling real-time implementation.
The improved method achieves high accuracy in lithium-ion battery state of charge estimation, outperforming traditional methods such as Back propagation Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory. The model's robustness is enhanced through periodic parameter updates based on battery operating conditions.
Researchers developed a new approach called ZeroCAL, which can remove nearly all carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement production. The process uses limestone as a feedstock and produces clean hydrogen and oxygen gas, making it an elegant solution to reduce carbon footprint.
A new study analyzed climate factors' impact on internal migration, revealing regions prone to drought-induced migration, such as Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. The research highlights the need for policies addressing drivers of migration and consequences for destination regions.
A new report argues that countries can cut premature mortality in half by 2050 through targeted health investments. By prioritizing the 15 health conditions causing most premature deaths and implementing public subsidies for essential medicines and diagnostics, nations can achieve this goal.
Researchers have decoded the genetic makeup of 'Samantha' rose variety to create a powerful resource for future comparative genomic studies. The study found that human selection has significantly influenced the genetic diversity of modern roses, but preserving genetic traits is essential for their health and adaptability.
A study found that speakers smiled more when listeners smiled more, especially in same-sex conversations. Smile synchronization is essential in creating social bonds and fostering positive feelings.
A new policy brief argues that citizen scientists are crucial for meeting global water quality targets, providing valuable data and community involvement. Successful case studies show how collaboration with locals can improve water quality monitoring, education, and rapid response.
A collaborative research team introduced a new approach to sustainable development in arid river basins through a Grey Fractional Multi-Objective Programming (GFMOP) model. The study found that improving water use efficiency can reduce carbon emissions while safeguarding the environment.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a time-release technology called PULSED that could help protect against poliomyelitis in combination vaccines. The technology would allow poliovirus-like particles to be released from microparticles after a few days, ensuring full vaccination efficacy.
The study reveals a positive trend in scientific production on sustainability topics, with the US leading research. Academic clusters focus on education for sustainable development, engineering education, and environmental projects. Higher education is strongly committed to sustainability, aligning programs with SDGs.
A new study reveals that green education can nurture a generation of eco-leaders to tackle climate change and environmental issues in the Middle East and North Africa. The study recommends integrating sustainability into national curricula, providing sustainable funding for education initiatives, and monitoring evaluation systems.
Researchers developed a novel single-cell genome approach to analyze microbial diversity and genetic features, recovering 300 missed bacterial species and providing insights into antibiotic resistance genes and gene exchange networks. The study has potential applications in public health, environmental monitoring, and agriculture.
Researchers at Osaka University have developed a way to make tough, chemically recyclable polymers without compromising on heat and chemical resistance. This breakthrough could hugely expand the uses of chemically recyclable polymers.
Researchers have explored biomass-derived antibacterial agents as a sustainable alternative to conventional compounds. The study reveals the potential of these agents in various sectors, including cosmetics and healthcare, and discusses challenges and future perspectives for their application.
Researchers have developed a novel method to fabricate high-performance macrofibers with exceptional mechanical properties and humidity response using the TAT technique. The resulting fibers exhibit record tensile strength and rapid actuation in response to environmental moisture, making them ideal for various industries.
The integration of MXene with cellulose creates a material with enhanced photothermal, electrothermal, biocidal, and piezoelectric characteristics. The composite showcases remarkable pressure sensitivity, efficient electromagnetic interference shielding, and superior antibacterial activity.
Researchers at Rutgers University are developing an innovative method called electroponics, which uses electrospray to deliver water and agrichemicals to plants with minimal waste. This technology has the potential to increase food security and sustainability, particularly in water-scarce environments or space stations.
The ASAP Global Center at the University of Illinois will integrate international teams and scientific disciplines to tackle global challenges like improving feedstock-crop performance and converting plant matter into fuel. The center aims to generate crucial knowledge, empower communities, and strengthen global cooperation.
A nationwide study found that Australians are buying too many clothes and need guidance on responsible disposal. The study revealed that age was the most significant factor in determining consumer clothing practices, with younger generations more likely to buy second-hand and repair clothes.
A new study from Uppsala University found that nearly 40% of the public support rationing of goods like meat and fuel to reduce their climate impact. The study, which surveyed over 9,000 people in five countries, also showed that acceptability of rationing is on par with taxes for emissions-intensive food.
Researchers used aerial drone technology and boat-based surveys to map complex tidal flows around the world's most powerful tidal turbine, O2. The study provides new insights into optimal turbine placement and site-specific assessments to address uncertainties surrounding interactions with marine habitats and environments.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a non-fluorinated battery system to comply with environmental regulations and enhance battery performance. The innovative 'APA-LC' system, entirely free of fluorinated compounds, shows improved oxidation stability and higher capacity retention.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a method to precisely control the timing of DNA droplet division, mimicking biological Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation (LLPS) droplets. This breakthrough enables precise control over synthetic droplet dynamics, key to developing bio-inspired systems.
Researchers developed a lignin sub-microsphere loaded with TiO2 for enhanced sunscreen capabilities, achieving SPF 42.93 and improved color properties.
A researcher at UTA is developing a tracer tool to help water suppliers ensure safe and reliable drinking water during extreme weather events. The tool will enable better management of drinking water in Tarrant County, addressing concerns about water flow and distribution.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new catalyst that efficiently converts a derivative of glycerol into bio-based propylene, contributing to sustainable chemical production. The catalyst enables the selective reduction of allyl alcohol to propylene with high efficiency using renewable energy sources.
Researchers at Waseda University developed a novel process for converting ammonia into green hydrogen gas at low temperatures using an electric field and Ru/CeO2 catalyst. The study successfully achieved 100% conversion rate at 398K, surpassing the equilibrium conversion rate.
A new USDA-funded research grant supports the development of sustainable, biodegradable mulch films that can provide nutrients to crops while reducing plastic pollution. The project aims to create durable and effective films that can be used for years without harming the environment.
A recent global assessment by University of Hamburg's CLICCS identifies key conditions for sustainable climate adaptation, including developing measures together with local populations. The study also emphasizes the importance of social movements, climate litigation, and achieving higher levels of social justice in driving change.
Researchers create interlocking glass bricks that can withstand pressures similar to concrete blocks, aiming to reduce embodied carbon in construction. The 3D-printed bricks are designed to be reused and repurposed, promoting a circular construction method.
Researchers have created a single-step method for producing Invar alloys with zero CO2 emissions and improved mechanical strength. The new process integrates metal extraction, alloying, and thermomechanical processing into one reactor step.
Researchers at Fujita Health University have discovered a key signaling pathway involved in aversive learning, which may help develop treatments for psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism. By identifying 221 candidate substrates of ROCK, the study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying aversive learning.
Scientists at the Max Planck Institute developed hexagon-shaped robotic components that can be snapped together into high-speed robots with rearrangeable capabilities. The modules feature artificial muscles and magnets for quick connections, enabling rapid changes in geometry and motion.
Researchers at HSE University developed mathematical models to predict impact of nuclear power on Sustainable Development Index. Increasing nuclear power share to 20-25% could boost SDI, but scenarios with slower growth or reduction lead to lower increases.
A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a moving particle simulation-aided soil plasticity analysis for earth pressure balance shield tunnelling. The study found that earth pressure is a reliable indicator for analyzing soil plasticity and proposed a computer-aided analysis system that precisely reflects e...
A recent study discovered that COI1 proteins in maize balance growth and defense by degrading JAZ and DELLAs. This finding could lead to developing more resilient maize varieties. The research revealed an unexpected role of COI1 in regulating DELLA levels, enabling maize to thrive under hot and arid climates.
A nationwide study found that over 840,000 new residential properties were built in floodplains across the US, with about 398,000 in Florida. Despite this, many communities have taken proactive measures to limit floodplain development through smart regulations and practices.
The new Corporate Lab aims to advance collaboration between industry and public sector researchers to address real-world challenges in sustainable living and digital technologies. It will develop and trial novel digital technologies prioritizing sustainable ecosystems and lifestyles, including energy-efficient AI algorithms, green clou...
Researchers have designed an energy-efficient device to produce drinking water from seawater using solar power, addressing the critical need for clean water in coastal nations. The new technology can continuously desalinate water without major maintenance, producing up to 20 litres of fresh water per square meter.
Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz create a new approach to prepare highly efficient dyad photocatalysts through electrostatic interactions, outperforming established catalysts. The novel method enables the use of inexpensive additives to improve performance and durability.
A team of GIST researchers developed a new defect passivation strategy for polycrystalline perovskites, leading to improved power conversion efficiency and long-term operational stability. The strategy uses a chemically identical polytype of perovskite to suppress defects in the crystal structure.
A new study by University of Maryland researchers found that village size plays a crucial role in determining the economic impact of electrification. Villages with populations over 2,000 people experience significant benefits, including doubled household expenditure and growth in microenterprises. In contrast, smaller villages see litt...
A study by Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology found that installing EVCS boosted spending at nearby establishments by 1.4% in 2019, leading to an overall increase of USD 6.7 million. Strategically placed EVCS also stimulated consumer spending in underprivileged areas, creating potential catalysts for economic growth.
Researchers from Texas A&M are leading a $26 million decarbonization effort to convert CO2 into valuable products, driving a circular carbon economy. The initiative aims to develop cost-effective and sustainable solutions for manufacturing systems.