Articles tagged with Sustainable Development
Researchers developed a new durable plastic that breaks down in seawater, reducing microplastic pollution. The material is strong, non-toxic, and customizable for various applications.
The SUSTAIN-6G project, led by Nokia, aims to develop sustainable technologies for 6G communications, focusing on smart grids, e-health, and agriculture. UC3M will focus on developing eco-friendly computing technologies for mobile networks.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new method to break down PFAS, a group of human-made 'forever' chemicals. The system uses an LED light-based photocatalytic approach that can be used at room temperature, offering a more sustainable and efficient solution than traditional chemical manufacturing processes.
Residents of Senboku New Town in Japan transformed vacant buildings into supportive housing, community restaurants, and group homes to address aging population challenges. The Senboku Hottokenai Network Project showcases the importance of community-led co-creation in creating Healthy New Towns.
A resilience index is proposed as a more suitable indicator of policy success than GDP, incorporating social and environmental components. This approach aims to steer decision-makers within the planet's 'safe operating space', balancing competing interests and trade-offs.
The University of Tennessee will place 5,000 East Tennesseans on the path to good jobs in the green economy over three years. The initiative focuses on underrepresented workers and addresses growing demand for skilled labor.
The partnership aims to develop modular autonomous water treatment and reuse processes, leveraging the expertise of both institutions. Rice students will engage in educational and research initiatives driven by real-world needs, enhancing their knowledge and skills.
The Tennessee RiverLine initiative has been awarded a $500,000 Area Development grant to support the development of comprehensive Planning and Design Standards. These standards will help accelerate investments in river access amenities, outdoor recreation infrastructure, and community connectivity across the Tennessee River valley.
A research team from Tokyo University of Science has developed an innovative method to halve the number of interactions needed in Ising machines, enabling scalability. This breakthrough paves the way for more efficient solutions to complex optimization challenges.
The SRI and University of Houston-affiliated project aims to develop a modular microreactor technology that converts carbon dioxide into methanol using renewable energy sources. The project has the potential to transform sustainable fuel production, offering a clean alternative for sectors like transportation.
Climate change exacerbates violence against children, according to a new study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. The research outlines how integrating climate and violence policies can reach the UN Sustainable Development Goal target of ending all forms of violence against children by 2030.
The EU's sustainable finance framework urgently needs to expand to address climate goals. The current taxonomy will not meet the Paris Climate Agreement target of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to break down condensation polymers in plastics using solvents and liquid organic hydrogen carriers, producing aromatic compounds that can be used as fuels. This breakthrough has potential implications for the sustainability of the chemical industry and reducing global warming.
The university introduces Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics and Double Major Bachelor of Engineering Science in Process Engineering and Synthetic Chemistry to address global demand for roboticists. The programs incorporate AI-related elements and are designed to provide students with a unique skill set.
Engineers are adapting jet engines to run on hydrogen fuel, addressing vibrations concerns that could damage the combustion chamber. The researchers' experiments provide a basis for designing efficient hydrogen engines, paving the way for climate-neutral flight.
The Planetary Boundaries framework, developed by Johan Rockström and Katherine Richardson, identifies nine global biophysical boundaries essential for regulating the Earth system. The third update highlights six transgressed boundaries, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate action to mitigate further risks.
Professor Yasmine Belkaid joins France's 'MAKE IT ICONIC. Choose France' campaign to promote the country's scientific excellence and innovation. As President of Institut Pasteur, she champions open and inclusive science, highlighting its impact on global medical research.
A research team led by Virginia Tech will test the geologic conditions at the Roanoke Cement Plant for storing 1.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide each year for three decades. The project aims to prevent estimated 50 million metric tons of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere.
A study by Aliza Fleischer, Yadin Gindin, and Yacov Tsur from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem introduces a new model that integrates recreational freshwater ecosystem services into water allocation decisions. The researchers found that increasing demand for these services leads to significant changes in water diversion, with a 24% r...
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) developed a smart insect screen-inspired film that regulates solar heat and lowers interior temperatures. The breakthrough, published in Advanced Functional Materials, achieves both transparency and radiative cooling performance.
A team of scientists leveraged machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries, achieving exceptional energy density. The study trained a model on a database of 100 samples to predict the optimal ratio of elements needed to balance properties like operating voltage and capacity retention.
A new study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and IIASA scientists suggests that there are three promising routes to make significant progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. The study's results show that all three pathways are far more effective than current 'business as usual' scen...
Upgrading home insulation can lower medical bills and extend healthy lives by reducing blood pressure and CVD risk. Simulations showed that upgrading or retrofitting insulation is cost-effective for many homeowners, with significant health benefits justifying the costs.
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.
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.
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%.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.