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![Better Extraction of Healthy Compounds from Saffron Waste Using Sunflower Oil](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5567_mid.jpg)
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Better Extraction of Healthy Compounds from Saffron Waste Using Sunflower Oil
Researchers developed an eco-friendly method using ultrasound and sunflower oil to extract phenolic compounds from saffron waste. This sustainable technique enhances antioxidant activity, offering potential applications in food, aquaculture, and cosmetics.
![Using CO2 Lasers to Label Fresh Produce: Impact on Quality, Safety, and Cost](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5556_mid.jpg)
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Using CO2 Lasers to Label Fresh Produce: Impact on Quality, Safety, and Cost
Kansas State University found CO2 laser-labeling for produce reduces environmental impact and maintains visual quality but increases microbial risk on text-labeled items. Addressing this is key for safer, sustainable labeling.
![Comparing Methods for Extracting Healthy Compounds from Mandarin Peels](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5522_mid.jpg)
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Comparing Methods for Extracting Healthy Compounds from Mandarin Peels
Research reveals that bioactive compounds from citrus waste, like quercetin and hesperidin, have potent anti-cancer properties. Using ultrasound-assisted extraction, these compounds can be efficiently harvested, promoting both health benefits and environmental sustainability.
![Natural Antimicrobial Building Materials Enhanced with Hops and Curly Sorrel](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5520_mid.jpg)
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Natural Antimicrobial Building Materials Enhanced with Hops and Curly Sorrel
Waste cooking oil composites enriched with hops or sorrel root show promise for construction, offering high strength and significant antibacterial and antifungal properties. This sustainable approach could help mitigate microbial infections in built environments.
![Fish Trade Conceals Household Use of Biodiversity in Wild Food Systems](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5466_mid.jpg)
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Fish Trade Conceals Household Use of Biodiversity in Wild Food Systems
Cornell researchers reveal that declining biodiversity in Cambodia's Tonlé Sap impacts household food security. Households consume 43% of species caught, selling just 9%. The study underscores the need for sustainable diets to support both human and planetary health.
![Eco-Friendly Nanoparticles from Waste for Efficient Dye Removal](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5416_mid.jpg)
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Eco-Friendly Nanoparticles from Waste for Efficient Dye Removal
Researchers at Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León have created eco-friendly copper oxide nanoparticles using waste papaya peel. These nanoparticles efficiently degrade dye pollutants, offering a cost-effective and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment.
![Turning Date Palm Seeds into Eco-Friendly Material for Cleaning Up Dye Pollution](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5407_mid.jpg)
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Turning Date Palm Seeds into Eco-Friendly Material for Cleaning Up Dye Pollution
Scientists at King Saud University have developed a method to create hydrochar from date palm seeds using microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization. The optimized process enhances the hydrochar's ability to adsorb pollutants, making it effective for wastewater treatment.
![Challenges Faced by Organic Farmers in Transition to Eco-Friendly Farming](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5404_mid.jpg)
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Challenges Faced by Organic Farmers in Transition to Eco-Friendly Farming
Organic farming in Central Uganda shows promise with diverse crop adaptation and integrated animal farming. However, challenges like limited waste recycling and water harvesting equipment remain. Investing in these areas could enhance sustainability and resilience.
![Carbon Footprint of Mixed Farming and Grazing Beef Systems Using Long-Term Data](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5385_mid.jpg)
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Carbon Footprint of Mixed Farming and Grazing Beef Systems Using Long-Term Data
A study by the Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria reveals that mixed crop-livestock systems can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions through better soil carbon management, offering a sustainable alternative to high-input farming in South America.
![A New Way to Grow Sugar Beets Without Extra Water by Planting in Autumn](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5384_mid.jpg)
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A New Way to Grow Sugar Beets Without Extra Water by Planting in Autumn
Researchers in Türkiye found that autumn-sown sugar beets can thrive in the Aegean Coastal Zone without irrigation using ridge sowing. This method conserves water and ensures high yields and sugar content, offering a sustainable alternative for water-scarce regions.
![Green Techniques to Boost Antioxidant Extraction from Red Prickly Pear Peels](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5298_mid.jpg)
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Green Techniques to Boost Antioxidant Extraction from Red Prickly Pear Peels
A study by Universidad Nacional de Moquegua optimized extracting antioxidants from prickly pear peels using advanced techniques. Findings show specific solvents and temperatures enhance efficiency, paving the way for new applications in food, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals.
![Growing Coastal Marine Microalgae in Wastewater from a Salmon Farming System](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5236_mid.jpg)
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Growing Coastal Marine Microalgae in Wastewater from a Salmon Farming System
A University of Agder study shows microalgae can thrive in aquaculture wastewater, effectively removing nutrients like nitrate and phosphate. This sustainable approach enhances waste management in fish farming and supports a circular bioeconomy in aquaculture.
![Factors Affecting Mixed Planting Success in Farmers' Fields](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5206_mid.jpg)
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Factors Affecting Mixed Planting Success in Farmers' Fields
A study by Agroscope on intercropping winter oilseed rape with frost-sensitive plants reveals yield variability due to pest damage, temperature, and plant mixture composition. Effective pest management and optimized fertilization are key to stable yields.
![Types of Climate Change Adaptation Among Large-Scale Crop Farmers](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5197_mid.jpg)
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Types of Climate Change Adaptation Among Large-Scale Crop Farmers
Farmers in Romania's southern lowlands are adapting to increased heatwaves and droughts. A study identified three adaptation strategies: efficiency, substitution, and redesign. The findings stress the importance of targeted support to boost farm resilience against climate change.
![Heat and Radiation Greatly Reduce Microbe Survival in Deep Underground Storage](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5156_mid.jpg)
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Heat and Radiation Greatly Reduce Microbe Survival in Deep Underground Storage
A study reveals that high temperatures, rather than irradiation, significantly reduce microbial activity in bentonite, a key barrier in nuclear waste storage. This insight helps predict and enhance the long-term stability of deep geological repositories.
![A Multilayered Farming System for Producing Black Soldier Fly Larvae](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5154_mid.jpg)
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A Multilayered Farming System for Producing Black Soldier Fly Larvae
The University of Malta's study shows mealworm and black soldier fly larvae can convert kitchen waste into protein-rich biomass, offering a sustainable solution for animal and aquaculture feed, aligning with the UN's goals for ending hunger and promoting responsible consumption.
![Biodegradation of Bioplastic and Oregano Oil Mix in Simulated Soil Conditions](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5146_mid.jpg)
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Biodegradation of Bioplastic and Oregano Oil Mix in Simulated Soil Conditions
Researchers at Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina found that adding oregano essential oil to PHBV biopolymer films significantly boosts their biodegradation in soil, achieving up to 46% mass loss in 12 weeks. This advance could enhance sustainable packaging solutions.
![Updated Review on Pollution Communication in the Arctic](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/5103_mid.jpg)
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Updated Review on Pollution Communication in the Arctic
Arctic communities face mercury exposure from traditional diets. A study by the Inuit Circumpolar Council - Canada highlights the need for better risk communication and social media use to balance nutritional benefits and contaminant risks, emphasizing culturally tailored advice.
![Boosting Seaweed Growth with a Two-Kelp Strategy](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4732_mid.jpg)
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Boosting Seaweed Growth with a Two-Kelp Strategy
Interest in kelp farming is shifting towards bioplastics, requiring large biomass yields. A study showed that growing two kelp species together can optimize space and boost production, offering a promising approach for sustainable large-scale kelp farming.
![Red Cabbage Film as an Eco-Friendly Sensor for Food Safety in Stored Cucumbers](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4713_mid.jpg)
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Red Cabbage Film as an Eco-Friendly Sensor for Food Safety in Stored Cucumbers
Scientists have developed an eco-friendly biopolymer film using red cabbage extract and bacterial cellulose to detect contamination and gamma radiation in cucumbers. This smart packaging changes color with pH shifts, offering real-time food safety and quality monitoring.
![Pomegranate Peel Extract: A Potential Antimicrobial Ingredient from Food Waste](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4588_mid.jpg)
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Pomegranate Peel Extract: A Potential Antimicrobial Ingredient from Food Waste
A study by the National Institute of Technology Rourkela shows that using ionic gelation to encapsulate pomegranate peel extract enhances its stability and antibacterial properties, offering a natural alternative to synthetic antimicrobials for food safety and pharmaceuticals.
![How Street Trees and Urban Plants Reduce Harmful UV Rays](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4542_mid.jpg)
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How Street Trees and Urban Plants Reduce Harmful UV Rays
Research from the University of Southern Queensland shows that tree shade can reduce harmful UV radiation by up to 91%, enhancing walkability and UV protection in urban areas. Planting specific tree species can significantly improve residents' health and quality of life.
![Balancing Wildlife Conservation and Community Challenges in Mankira Forest](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4507_mid.jpg)
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Balancing Wildlife Conservation and Community Challenges in Mankira Forest
Human-wildlife conflicts in Ethiopia's Mankira Forest cause significant crop and livestock losses, with 95% of locals affected. The study highlights the need for targeted education, better management, and community involvement to balance conservation and human needs.
![How Rainfall, Crop Mix, and Farming Methods Boost Farm Yields in Europe](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4380_mid.jpg)
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How Rainfall, Crop Mix, and Farming Methods Boost Farm Yields in Europe
Innovative farming like cereal-legume intercropping can boost yields by 30% while enhancing sustainability, says a James Hutton Institute study. Factors like organic fertilizer and rainfall affect success, offering a path to more productive, eco-friendly agriculture.
![Forest Recovery After Wildfire in the Northern Rocky Mountains](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4333_mid.jpg)
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Forest Recovery After Wildfire in the Northern Rocky Mountains
Field surveys in the Northern Rocky Mountains reveal robust conifer regeneration on burned sites, challenging the belief that climate change will turn forests into grasslands. Using machine learning, this study offers new insights into forest resilience and post-fire recovery.
![Smart Food Freshness Film Using Black Currant and Cinnamon Ingredients](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4286_mid.jpg)
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Smart Food Freshness Film Using Black Currant and Cinnamon Ingredients
Xiamen University Malaysia developed a smart packaging film using black currant pigments and cinnamon oil to detect food spoilage. Despite reduced antioxidant activity and no antimicrobial effects, the film changes color with freshness, offering real-time spoilage monitoring.
![How Can Better Forest Management Reduce Noise from Wind Turbines?](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4277_mid.jpg)
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How Can Better Forest Management Reduce Noise from Wind Turbines?
Recent research reveals that forests and tallgrass prairies can effectively reduce noise pollution, but their efficiency varies by season. This insight can help urban planners design quieter, more livable cities by strategically using different types of vegetation.
![Boosting Algae Growth and Healthy Fats Using Filtered Whey](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/4168_mid.jpg)
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Boosting Algae Growth and Healthy Fats Using Filtered Whey
University College Dublin researchers found that nano-filtered whey permeate, a dairy by-product, can sustainably grow the microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica. This method efficiently produces valuable omega-3 fatty acids, while also addressing waste management issues.
![Boosting Soil Nitrogen Using Mushroom-Based Water Treatment](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3938_mid.jpg)
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Boosting Soil Nitrogen Using Mushroom-Based Water Treatment
A study from the University of Illinois explores using Trametes versicolor fungus to treat hydrothermal liquefaction byproduct, boosting its nitrate and ammonium levels for hydroponic use, offering a sustainable solution for crop growth and waste disposal.
![Lotus Flower Extract Films as Sustainable pH Indicators for Food Packaging](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3936_mid.jpg)
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Lotus Flower Extract Films as Sustainable pH Indicators for Food Packaging
Researchers at King Mongkut's University have developed an eco-friendly, pH-sensitive film using alginate, PVA, garlic, and lotus flower extract. This innovative film changes color to indicate food spoilage, offering a sustainable solution for real-time food safety monitoring.
![Creating Porous Biochar from Banana Waste to Clean Cadmium Pollution in Water](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3920_mid.jpg)
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Creating Porous Biochar from Banana Waste to Clean Cadmium Pollution in Water
Research from South China Agricultural University shows biochar made from banana straw can effectively remove cadmium from the environment and prevent the spread of fusarium wilt, offering a sustainable solution to these pressing agricultural issues.
![Boosting Wheat Yields with Better Watering, Nutrition, and Organic Methods](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3831_mid.jpg)
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Boosting Wheat Yields with Better Watering, Nutrition, and Organic Methods
Recent research by Al-Azhar University shows that combining drip irrigation, foliar potassium bicarbonate, and effective compost methods boosts wheat growth, physiology, and yield. This integrated approach could significantly enhance global food security.
![Improving Green Energy from Reishi Mushroom Biomass with Controlled Combustion](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3810_mid.jpg)
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Improving Green Energy from Reishi Mushroom Biomass with Controlled Combustion
China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment has found that Ganoderma lucidum biomass can be an efficient, sustainable energy source. The study highlights how different atmospheric conditions and heating rates affect combustion efficiency, aiding the shift from fossil fuels.
![Improving Soil Treatments to Reduce Arsenic in Rice Grown on Contaminated Land](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3766_mid.jpg)
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Improving Soil Treatments to Reduce Arsenic in Rice Grown on Contaminated Land
Researchers from Sylhet Agricultural University found that using biochar, vermicompost, and duckweed can reduce arsenic in rice by up to 56% and boost yields by 44%. These organic amendments offer a sustainable way to mitigate arsenic contamination and improve public health.
![Boosting Nutritional Value of Olive and Walnut Waste Using Mushroom Fermentation](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3669_mid.jpg)
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Boosting Nutritional Value of Olive and Walnut Waste Using Mushroom Fermentation
Transforming olive mill stone waste and walnut shells into protein-rich animal feed using solid-state fermentation offers a sustainable solution to waste disposal and feed scarcity. This innovative process boosts protein content, reduces lignin, and supports a circular economy.
![Eco-Friendly Extraction and Use of Yellow Curcumin Dye for Silk Coloring](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3403_mid.jpg)
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Eco-Friendly Extraction and Use of Yellow Curcumin Dye for Silk Coloring
Researchers at Government College University Faisalabad have developed an eco-friendly dyeing method using Amba Haldi and microwave technology. This sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes enhances color depth on silk while reducing environmental harm.
![Comparing Sandy Beach and Dune Changes Using Lidar and Drone Technology](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3289_mid.jpg)
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Comparing Sandy Beach and Dune Changes Using Lidar and Drone Technology
Apple's built-in lidar tech proves to be a reliable, cost-effective tool for mapping coastal changes, offering a viable alternative to traditional, more expensive methods. This innovation can enhance coastal management and resilience planning through detailed, accessible data.
![Comparing Green Biodiesel from New Sources for Cleaner and Efficient Engines](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3188_mid.jpg)
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Comparing Green Biodiesel from New Sources for Cleaner and Efficient Engines
A study by PDPM IIITDM shows biodiesel blends from peppermint, water hyacinth, tamarind, and snake gourd can enhance engine performance and cut emissions. These blends reduce PM, NOx, and CO2, supporting sustainable energy goals.
![Innovative Hydrogel Fertilizer Enhances Tomato Growth and Water Retention](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3173_mid.jpg)
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Innovative Hydrogel Fertilizer Enhances Tomato Growth and Water Retention
Researchers developed an eco-friendly hydrogel that slowly releases nitrogen, enhancing crop growth even under water stress. Tested on tomatoes, it boosted yields up to 43%, showing promise for sustainable agriculture and reducing environmental impacts.
![Electric Field Air Bubbles Improve Crop Growth with Less Fertilizer](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3157_mid.jpg)
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Electric Field Air Bubbles Improve Crop Growth with Less Fertilizer
Electric field-based air nanobubbles (EF-ANBs) significantly boost crop germination and growth, reducing the need for fertilizers. This innovative approach enhances plant health and supports sustainable farming practices, promising a greener future for agriculture.
![Exploring Sustainable Commercial Use of Palm Fruits](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/3092_mid.jpg)
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Exploring Sustainable Commercial Use of Palm Fruits
The Amazon's palm fruits hold untapped economic potential. A study highlights açaí as the top candidate for market development due to its abundance and demand. Majo shows promise but needs better processing, while palma real and motacu face low demand and expertise issues.
![Boosting Antibiotic Breakdown Using Durian Peel Biochar and Special Metal Oxides](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2972_mid.jpg)
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Boosting Antibiotic Breakdown Using Durian Peel Biochar and Special Metal Oxides
Researchers at Le Quy Don Technical University have developed a novel catalyst, CuCoFe-LDO/BCD, derived from durian shells, that degrades over 95% of ciprofloxacin in water within 10 minutes, offering a promising solution to combat antibiotic pollution and resistance.
![Optimal Water Use for Crops and Irrigation Planning in a Changing Climate](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2860_mid.jpg)
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Optimal Water Use for Crops and Irrigation Planning in a Changing Climate
Recent research in southern Ethiopia reveals that climate change will increase crop water needs, requiring more frequent irrigation. Optimal land use strategies can balance economic gains and food security, guiding policymakers to promote climate-resilient farming.
![How Climate Change and Nutrients Affect Decomposition: A Comprehensive Study](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2632_mid.jpg)
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How Climate Change and Nutrients Affect Decomposition: A Comprehensive Study
Climate change impacts litter decomposition in cold biomes, crucial for carbon cycling. A study finds direct warming speeds decomposition, but shrub expansion with slow-decomposing leaves could slow it, partly counteracting warming effects. Litter quality remains a key factor.
![Using Watermelon Rind to Clean Water from Copper, Zinc, and Cloudiness](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2607_mid.jpg)
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Using Watermelon Rind to Clean Water from Copper, Zinc, and Cloudiness
Researchers at the University of Hassan II-Casablanca found that watermelon rinds can effectively treat contaminated water, removing up to 99.88% of copper and 99.21% of turbidity. This eco-friendly method offers a sustainable alternative to costly chemical coagulants.
![Optimizing Natural Methods to Extract Antioxidants from Olive Waste](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2433_mid.jpg)
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Optimizing Natural Methods to Extract Antioxidants from Olive Waste
Researchers at Universidad de la República have optimized a sustainable method using lactic acid-glucose solvents to extract valuable antioxidants from olive pomace. This green approach enhances the use of olive oil by-products, offering higher yields than conventional methods.
![Extracting Healthy Compounds from Young Red Apples Using Eco-Friendly Methods](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2348_mid.jpg)
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Extracting Healthy Compounds from Young Red Apples Using Eco-Friendly Methods
Young red-fleshed apples are rich in polyphenols, which have health benefits. Researchers found that eco-friendly solvents can effectively extract these compounds, maintaining their bioactivity, making them ideal for functional foods and sustainable applications.
![Traditional Plant Knowledge in a Remote Mountain Community](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2346_mid.jpg)
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Traditional Plant Knowledge in a Remote Mountain Community
A study in Lotkuh, Pakistan, documented 150 plant species used for food, medicine, and more, highlighting the rich ethnobotanical knowledge of the region. High consensus among locals underscores the importance of preserving this cultural heritage for future applications.
![Enhanced Biochar Effectively Removes Chromium from Contaminated Water](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2327_mid.jpg)
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Enhanced Biochar Effectively Removes Chromium from Contaminated Water
Arizona State University has developed a sustainable method to remove toxic chromium from water using biochar made from pineapple skins. This modified biochar efficiently adsorbs both Cr(VI) and Cr(III), offering a cost-effective solution to groundwater pollution.
![Boosting Wheat Yields in Salty Soil with Poultry Manure and Helpful Microbes](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2309_mid.jpg)
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Boosting Wheat Yields in Salty Soil with Poultry Manure and Helpful Microbes
Soil salinity threatens global food security by harming wheat growth. A study shows that using specific microbes and poultry manure can improve wheat yield in saline soil, offering a sustainable solution to enhance crop productivity and meet rising food demands.
![Combining Key Factors to Assess Farming Risks from Climate Change](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/2108_mid.jpg)
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Combining Key Factors to Assess Farming Risks from Climate Change
Climate change threatens Anuradhapura's agriculture in Sri Lanka. A study using GIS and indicators reveals high vulnerability, with 25% of the area at very high risk. This highlights the urgent need for targeted adaptation strategies to ensure food security.
![Eco-Friendly Creation of Silver-Infused Nanocomposite for Water Purification](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1899_mid.jpg)
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Eco-Friendly Creation of Silver-Infused Nanocomposite for Water Purification
Scientists develop a plant-based nanocomposite that breaks down harmful dyes in water, offering a dual-purpose solution for pollution and cancer treatment.
![How Biochar Helps Tomatoes Grow in Drought and Salty Conditions](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1871_mid.jpg)
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How Biochar Helps Tomatoes Grow in Drought and Salty Conditions
Biochar helps tomatoes grow in water-scarce, salty conditions by improving soil moisture and nutrient uptake, leading to healthier plants and better yields.
![Iron-Enhanced Biochar: A Greener Fertilizer for Farming](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1857_mid.jpg)
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Iron-Enhanced Biochar: A Greener Fertilizer for Farming
Turning banana peels into iron-rich biochar, researchers at the University of the Punjab have created an eco-friendly soil enhancer that boosts crop growth and reduces pollution.
![Adopting Better Farming Methods Boosts Apple Growth Despite Challenges](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1831_mid.jpg)
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Adopting Better Farming Methods Boosts Apple Growth Despite Challenges
Nepal's apple farmers adopt sustainable practices for quality produce, facing challenges like input access and transport, vital for local economy and health.
![Exploring Efficient Solar Drying Methods for Okra](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1799_mid.jpg)
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Exploring Efficient Solar Drying Methods for Okra
Researchers have developed a solar-powered drying system for okra, promising a sustainable way to preserve food and reduce waste, with a payback period of just over a year.
![Microwave Drying of Pre-treated Abalone Slices: Efficiency and Protein Quality](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1778_mid.jpg)
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Microwave Drying of Pre-treated Abalone Slices: Efficiency and Protein Quality
New drying technique using electric fields and microwaves reduces energy use by 33% and improves quality of dried Chilean abalone.
![Enhancing Plant Survival in Antimony-Polluted Soil Using Fungi and Olive Waste](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1762_mid.jpg)
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Enhancing Plant Survival in Antimony-Polluted Soil Using Fungi and Olive Waste
Exploring natural ways to combat soil pollution, a study reveals how oats can resist toxic metal contamination with the help of fungi and olive waste.
![Growth of Young Forest Trees in Peat-Free and Low-Peat Soils](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1760_mid.jpg)
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Growth of Young Forest Trees in Peat-Free and Low-Peat Soils
Finnish scientists find eco-friendly alternatives to peat for growing tree seedlings, paving the way for more sustainable forestry.
![How Land Use Affects Leaf Decomposition in Tropical Streams](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1750_mid.jpg)
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How Land Use Affects Leaf Decomposition in Tropical Streams
Tropical streams suffer as land-use changes, but preserving vegetation strips along banks can protect vital leaf decomposition processes.
![Plastic-Invading Microbes from Sewage to Sea](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1669_mid.jpg)
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Plastic-Invading Microbes from Sewage to Sea
Scientists at Bangor University are exploring how plastic waste might help antibiotic-resistant bacteria spread, posing a threat to health and ecosystems.
![Eco-Friendly Gel Mix for Better Crop Growth](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1610_mid.jpg)
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Eco-Friendly Gel Mix for Better Crop Growth
Researchers have developed a new hydrogel that improves water retention and fertilizer release, promising advancements for agriculture and water conservation.
![Exploring Banana Fiber for Eco-Friendly Ropes and Fabrics](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1603_mid.jpg)
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Exploring Banana Fiber for Eco-Friendly Ropes and Fabrics
Banana-plantain stalk fibers are being developed into eco-friendly ropes and fabrics, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials and helping reduce plastic waste.
![Spotting Various Plastics and Materials with Fluorescence Tech](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1556_mid.jpg)
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Spotting Various Plastics and Materials with Fluorescence Tech
Researchers have developed a new, quick method to distinguish harmful microplastics from natural materials in soil, aiding in ecological risk assessment.
![Combining Natural Plant Extracts with Bacteria to Control Tomato Pests](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1554_mid.jpg)
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Combining Natural Plant Extracts with Bacteria to Control Tomato Pests
Researchers find that combining neem extract with a specific bacteria can kill 99% of tomato pinworm larvae, offering a sustainable pest control method.
![Biochar from Waste Boosts Tomato Plant Growth](https://static.naturalsciencenews.com/images/articles/1540_mid.jpg)
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Biochar from Waste Boosts Tomato Plant Growth
Researchers at Sapienza University of Rome have developed a slow-release fertilizer from licorice waste, boosting tomato health and reducing environmental harm.