Articles tagged with Sustainable Development
Researchers at Princeton and UCLA developed a passive mechanism to cool buildings in summer and warm them in winter by restricting radiant heat flows. Common materials like polyvinyl fluoride and plastics can be adapted for this purpose, achieving energy savings and thermal comfort beyond traditional building envelopes.
Researchers developed a one-dimensional model to predict soil temperatures around energy piles in Southeast Asia. They found that temperature distribution remained stable despite changes in soil thermal conductivity, indicating GSHP systems can be designed flexibly.
Researchers from Shinshu University have developed a strategy to up- and down-convert terahertz signals using dynamic conductivity modification, creating temporal boundaries. This approach could pave the way for faster data transmission and enhanced telecommunications in fields like deep learning and robotics.
Researchers have developed a novel perovskite-based anode material with mixed hole–proton conduction, achieving high efficiency at low and medium temperatures. The breakthrough could pave the way for important technological advancements in energy technologies.
Leading academics recommend extending Sustainable Development Goals to 2050, addressing climate and biodiversity targets, and incorporating AI impact, community input, and inclusive consultations. They also suggest reforming global finance architecture and framing goals as missions with clear targets.
A new study emphasizes the need to balance water conservation with food security, finding that ending groundwater depletion would lead to significant declines in food production, particularly for rice and wheat. The study warns that such efforts could push up international prices, making food less affordable for the poor.
The Goethe SDG Contest recognized three award-winning start-up teams: HOPES Energy, MySympto, and CERES FieldCheck. These innovative projects leverage AI and sustainable products to address pressing global challenges, including energy storage, healthcare efficiency, and environmental conservation.
Researchers have developed a method to synthesize an organotin mercaptide-based thermal stabilizer from palm fatty acid distillate, offering a competitive alternative to existing PVC stabilizers. The synthesized material demonstrates superior thermal stability at lower dosages and is economically viable.
Scientists from the University of East Anglia and other institutions review the climatic effectiveness of four 'nature-based' techniques using marine biological processes. They conclude that these activities cannot provide a significant contribution to carbon dioxide removal, posing risks to meaningful climate mitigation.
A study from IIASA researchers highlights the potential of demand-side measures to reduce energy and resource consumption without restricting fossil fuel use. These strategies include improving resource efficiency, promoting shared mobility, reusing materials, and thermal refurbishment of buildings.
The Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein at NC State aims to create biomanufacturing hubs for dietary proteins that are healthy, tasty, and affordable. The center will research, develop, and commercialize new technologies to support sustainable food production and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers developed a predictive model that maps soil-bearing layer distribution, enabling city planners to assess site suitability and optimize building design. The model improves prediction accuracy by combining geotechnical data and geographic coordinates.
A new study finds that urban office buildings continuously release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the outdoors, similar to traffic emissions. The research team measured VOC concentrations in a high-performance office building and found indoor levels 2-15 times higher than outdoors.
A new tool and framework allow companies to assess the circularity of their products in early design stages, enabling them to create sustainable new products. The circular design framework consists of 10 categories and includes interactive questions, helping entrepreneurs and designers think systematically and collaborate better.
Researchers at Griffith University propose catalysis as a transformative solution to create a circular economy in the chemical industry. By leveraging sustainable waste resources, catalysts can minimize reliance on finite fossil fuels and reduce CO2 emissions significantly. The study explores various lenses for catalysis, including was...
Dr. Hemali Rathnayake has developed a cost-effective and efficient lithium refining process for converting lithium into battery-grade lithium carbonate. The grant funding will support her ongoing research to boost North Carolina's sustainable domestic supply chain for lithium-based products.
Researchers have developed a new paste substrate for cultivating mycelium leather, enabling faster growth and easier harvesting. The study found that this method produces thicker mycelial mats with improved yields, making it a promising sustainable alternative to traditional materials.
International agreements like Sustainable Development Goals represent wide support for a sustainable future. However, disagreements on how to achieve this lead to marginalization and inaction. Researchers found that competing approaches prioritize different values of nature, making compromise difficult.
Researchers apply hydrophilic polymer coating to nanoparticles, reducing accumulation and toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans. The coating mitigates NP bioavailability, promoting eco-friendly nanomaterials for environmental remediation.
Research suggests mainstreaming biodiversity targets into policies and plans across sectors has been ineffective due to non-binding commitments and insufficient resources. The study highlights the need for top-down regulation and incentives to encourage greater commitment to nature recovery.
A new AI method developed by Swedish researchers can identify toxic substances based on their chemical structure, potentially replacing animal testing. The method has been shown to be more accurate and broadly applicable than existing computational tools, offering a promising alternative for environmental research and authorities.
Researchers at NTU Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic develop a new, sustainable feed alternative for farmed Asian seabass, reducing reliance on wild-caught fishmeal. The single cell protein is cultivated from soybean processing wastewater, offering a promising solution to the aquaculture industry's environmental challenges.
Experts argue that voluntary corporate emissions targets are not enough to create real climate action, as they may favor larger existing companies and hinder innovation. The authors suggest updating regulations to improve corporate climate ambition.
SMART researchers develop a nanosensor that selectively detects salicylic acid in live plants, vital for stress response. The sensor combines sensors for H₂O₂ and salicylic acid, enabling simultaneous monitoring of plant hormones and aiding in early diagnoses to improve crop resilience.
Oasis growth and loss have been tracked globally over 25 years, with significant increases in Asia due to intentional expansion. However, desertification has led to a substantial loss of approximately 134,000 square kilometers of oasis land worldwide.
Researchers analyzed EU agricultural imports to identify areas of high environmental impact. Trade with MERCOSUR countries, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea contributes significantly to deforestation and land degradation. The EU can reduce its relevance by regulating demand for sustainable livestock farming or promoting low-me...
Researchers have developed an active learning strategy to accelerate the synthesis of high-performance engineered biochar with enhanced CO2 uptake. The approach nearly doubled CO2 capture performance, showcasing its transformative impact.
A new scientific review published in Sustainable Production and Consumption explores how to accurately assess the carbon footprint of coffee farming. The study provides guidance on measuring green coffee's environmental impact, including identifying representative measurements and applying land use change modeling.
Researchers have discovered a greener way to produce ammonia, essential for fertilizers, by developing a new catalyst that works stably at relatively low temperatures. This breakthrough reduces the amount of energy needed to synthesize ammonia, making it an attractive alternative to fossil fuels.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered a simple method to increase Euglena gracilis carotenoid content ratio by exposing it to strong red-light irradiation in bonito stock. The approach has potential to enhance the nutritional profile and scalability of this edible microalga.
A new report by a team of experts outlines an approach that combines Indigenous knowledge with Western science to develop more resilient forest management practices. The 'braided' approach aims to promote the health and diversity of forests, which are increasingly threatened by climate change.
A team of Australian scientists has developed a step-by-step guide to ageing octopus, using growth rings on beaks and stylets to validate age. This tool helps estimate growth rates, reproduction, and maturity, ensuring sustainable fisheries and conservation.
A new 3D printer developed by researchers at MIT and NIST can automatically identify the parameters for printing with unknown materials. This allows for the use of renewable or recyclable materials that were previously difficult to characterize, reducing the environmental impact of additive manufacturing.
Researchers from the University of Oldenburg aim to propagate stony corals via natural reproduction and grow out young corals in aquaria for a more sustainable coral trade. If successful, this method could boost wild coral protection and reduce reliance on expensive export restrictions.
A new study reveals a strong correlation between universities' sustainability performance and local innovation, while showing little connection to community environmental sustainability. The research suggests universities contribute to economic development, but struggle to drive broader sustainable transformations.
The study emphasizes the urgent need for a just and sustainable future, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, climate change, and socio-economic inequality. The authors advocate for a global cultural shift that prioritizes kinship with nature and communal well-being to avoid devastating consequences.
The Indian Institute of Science has developed new concrete materials using excavated soil, reducing the need for natural sand and minimizing carbon dioxide emissions. The innovative materials show improved compressive strength and reduced waste, offering a scalable solution to the construction sector's environmental challenges.
Researchers have developed a biodegradable chitosan-based composite film reinforced with lignin-rich nanofibers extracted from rice husks, reducing waste and promoting circular economy practices. The material showcases improved strength, durability, and unique properties like UV-blocking capabilities.
A study by Osaka University found that thinking about sustainability from the perspective of imaginary future generations yields new insights into technological innovation and societal trends. Participants in workshops ranked indicators differently after adopting this perspective, perceiving technology's feasibility more accurately.
Researchers review advances and challenges in applying SLA to evaluate unconventional reservoirs, highlighting its simplicity and convenience. The study proposes modifications to address reservoir heterogeneity and suggests combining SLA with machine learning algorithms for improved accuracy.
Researchers warn of devastating impacts of Olympic tower construction on coral reef habitat and local economy in Teahupo’o, Tahiti. The study found that the site supports a thriving coral community worth at least $170,000, with potential economic losses estimated at $1.3 million if the reef is damaged.
A pioneering approach produces high-performance polyamides from sugar cores derived from agricultural waste, with impressive atom efficiency and recyclability
A new study identifies ten key components to promote sustainable, equitable, and climate-smart ocean planning initiatives worldwide. The proposed components include foundational principles and operational pathways that aim to support marine managers and planners in developing climate-smart ocean plans.
Researchers found that certain plants like ivy and lavender are effective at trapping particles of pollution on their leaves. The study suggests that a mix of plant species can produce the most effective green walls, depending on their leaf shape and micromorphological properties.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that EU countries have made progress towards achieving the 2030 sustainable energy goal, but some countries still have a long way to go. Malta made the greatest progress, while Bulgaria is furthest from meeting its targets.
A new project, NaKlaR, aims to improve the efficiency and sustainability of sodium-ion batteries by optimizing production processes and recyclability. The goal is to develop a battery with performance comparable to current reference cells while containing at least 25% recycled electrode material.
Researchers at Aston University will explore gel electrolyte materials to improve lithium-ion batteries' safety and environmental sustainability. The project aims to replace harmful components with renewable ionogels, addressing the need for scalable methods of storing electrical energy.
A global study led by the University of Surrey reveals that green spaces like parks, wetlands, and botanical gardens can cool city air significantly during heatwaves. The study found that bigger parks have a greater cooling effect, and connecting green spaces into 'green corridors' can unlock greater benefits.
A study published in Natural Resources Forum found that renewable energy production reduces carbon dioxide emissions in OECD countries but increases them in emerging economies. Economic growth also enhances environmental quality in both sets of countries, while institutional quality is linked to fewer emissions in OECD countries.
A new simulation model examines the conditions under which institutions emerge and persist, highlighting the critical role of competition and learning from out-groups. The study builds on Elinor Ostrom's design principles for successful management, shifting focus to understanding how collective property rights arise and spread.
Researchers developed a sustainable technique to 3D print multiple dynamic colors from a single ink using UV-assisted direct-ink-write printing. The new method produces structural colors in the visible wavelength spectrum, offering vibrant and potentially more sustainable alternatives.
A new study suggests Mexico can grow its economy by building biorefineries to produce biofuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals from abundant organic waste materials. The research promotes the adoption of sustainable practices to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals 8-12.
Smarter eco-cities harness real-time data to address environmental challenges and implement innovative approaches for ecological conservation. However, high energy demands associated with AI and AIoT applications pose a challenge to attaining environmental objectives.
Researchers created an AI-enabled model to help mitigate global ammonia emissions from agriculture. By optimizing fertilizer management, the model can effectively reduce emissions by up to 38%, with Asia having the highest potential for reduction.
A Brazilian study developed a method using AI to identify crop-livestock integration areas from satellite images. The approach can benefit agriculture by optimizing land use, diversifying farming activities, and encouraging sustainable practices.
A new study has mapped the health risks of heatwaves in India, finding that mild heatwaves are the deadliest, while extreme ones have fewer deaths due to their infrequency. The research highlights the need for policymakers to plan for both common and extreme heatwaves to protect public health.
A study of 38 Ontario municipalities found that almost all publish their sustainability goals but under half formally report on progress. Researchers from the University of Waterloo aim to help Canadian municipalities monitor and measure their climate mitigation efforts through a new partnership.
West Virginia University engineer Yuhe Tian is developing powerful artificial intelligence tools that can reimagine the sustainability of chemical manufacturing. She aims to harness quantum intelligence to innovate environmentally friendly chemical plant designs.
Researchers have developed a novel optical neural network architecture that achieves nonlinear optical computation by precisely controlling ultrashort pulse propagation in multimode fibers. This approach streamlines the need for energy-intensive digital processes, achieving comparable accuracy with significantly reduced parameters.
The NEST360 alliance is launching Phase 2 with a focus on five sub-Saharan countries to reduce newborn deaths by 75% through improved medical care and systems-change approach. The initiative aims to limit newborn deaths to no more than 12 per 1000 live births by 2030, aligning with the U.N.'s SDG 3.2 goal.