Category: Sustainability

A landmark study by researchers at the University at Buffalo, in collaboration with Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research in Leipzig, Germany, has revealed a crucial finding about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” The study meticulously measured the toxicity levels of various PFAS when combined, disclosing that their collective toxicity…

A recent study led by researchers at North Carolina State University reveals that per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFAS) could remain in the groundwater of Cumberland and Bladen counties in North Carolina for more than 40 years. The study shines a spotlight on the lingering effects of these persistent chemicals, which have been linked to serious…

In a significant breakthrough, researchers led by Iakovos Tzanakis from Oxford Brookes University have developed an innovative method to tackle one of the world’s most stubborn environmental threats — PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” These chemicals, prevalent in everyday items and a known health hazard, have long eluded effective and sustainable removal strategies. A…

Scientists at the University of Liverpool, in collaboration with several international institutions, have made significant strides in understanding bacterial photosynthesis. By employing state-of-the-art cryogenic electron microscopy, they have captured detailed structural images of key photosynthetic protein complexes in purple bacteria, specifically Rhodobacter blasticus. These findings, published in the journal Science Advances, could propel advancements in…

After years of observing plastic consumption by environmental bacteria in urban waterways, a research team led by Northwestern University has unveiled how certain bacteria break down plastic waste for sustenance. This breakthrough could offer a revolutionary method to tackle the burgeoning plastic pollution problem. The study, recently published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology,…

A study published in Science underscores the vast extent of bird species extinctions due to human activity over the last 130,000 years, revealing a notably greater impact than previously understood. This monumental loss spans approximately 3 billion years of unique evolutionary history and 7% of global avian functional diversity. While the diminishing of species richness…

In a decisive call to action, a team of leading ocean experts has introduced a revolutionary set of guidelines that aim to transform sustainable fishing practices. Published in Nature’s scientific journal npj Ocean Sustainability, their report proposes 11 “golden rules” designed to halt ongoing ocean destruction and regenerate fish populations to feed future generations. This…

MIT engineers have unveiled a pioneering desalination system that leverages the power of the sun to produce clean water without the need for batteries. This innovation could be a game changer for communities lacking reliable access to fresh water sources and grid power. The new system dynamically adjusts its desalting process to match fluctuations in…

Engineers at Rice University have achieved a breakthrough that could significantly aid in the fight against environmental pollution. The team has developed a novel, cost-effective method to synthesize covalent organic frameworks (COFs), materials known for their exceptional ability to trap gases, filter water and accelerate chemical reactions. The innovation holds substantial promise for addressing persistent…

An unprecedented collaboration between global experts has led to the development of a novel economic model that could reshape how businesses think about success. This paradigm, called the “prosocial market economy,” prioritizes cooperation, ethical behavior and sustainability, moving away from the traditional focus on self-interest and short-term profits. Led by Jan Pfister, an associate professor…