Sustainability News
23rd August, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Creating Eco-Friendly Food Packaging Films Using Corn Starch and Carbon Nanodots
Researchers at Korea University developed innovative corn starch films with carbon nanodots from ginkgo leaves, enhancing food packaging by improving toughness, oxygen barriers, and UV protection, thereby extending shelf life and reducing waste.
23rd August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Exploring New Grape Varieties for Sustainable Wine Production in Warm Climates
Researchers at São Paulo State University have developed new grapevine genotypes that enhance climate resilience and wine quality. These genotypes yield higher polyphenol content and improved sensory attributes, offering sustainable solutions for viticulture in warmer climates.
22nd August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Eco-Friendly Ways to Prevent Scale Build-Up in Factories Using Rosemary Extract
Researchers at Ibn Zohr University found that rosemary leaf extract effectively prevents calcium carbonate buildup in industrial systems. This eco-friendly solution is more efficient than traditional chemical inhibitors, offering a sustainable alternative for scale prevention.
21st August, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Banana Plant Fiber-Based Magnetic Material for Efficient Dye Removal
A breakthrough study from Mangalore University introduces a hybrid hydrogel nanocomposite from banana stem cellulose, significantly boosting dye removal from wastewater. Enhanced adsorption and reusability promise a sustainable solution for industrial effluents.
20th August, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Optimizing Ozone Treatment for Safe Drinking Water and Disinfection Control
A study by the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul highlights the challenges in ozonating reclaimed water to remove pathogens while controlling harmful byproducts like bromate and NDMA. It provides insights into optimizing ozone doses for safer potable water reuse.
15th August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Eco-Friendly Method to Turn Banana Fibers into Cotton-Like Textiles
Banana fibers from waste stems show promise for textiles due to their strength and antibacterial properties. A study by National Textile University optimized enzyme-based methods to soften these fibers, making them spinnable and suitable for sustainable textile applications.
14th August, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Eco-Friendly Method to Extract Healthy Compounds from Winemaking By-Products
Researchers at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa have developed an eco-friendly method to extract antioxidants from grape seeds, a winemaking by-product, using green solvents. This innovative approach enhances extraction efficiency and supports sustainability in the industry.
11th August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Coal-Based Fertilizer Helps Clean Lead-Contaminated Soil and Releases Nutrients
High-ash coal slime-based silica fertilizer (CSF) enhances soil quality by providing essential nutrients and reducing lead contamination. Taiyuan University of Technology's study shows CSF improves plant growth, soil pH, and stabilizes lead, promoting sustainable agriculture.
11th August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Eco-Friendly Pesticide and Antifungal Agent Using Natural Compounds
Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed coacervates using lignin and surfactin to enhance fungicide efficacy while reducing dosage. This innovative method promises improved crop protection, reduced health risks, and sustainable agricultural productivity.
11th August, 2024
| Greg Howard
How Land Patterns Affect Neighborhood Air Temperatures in Winter and Summer
Researchers from Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez found that neighborhoods with more trees and shrubs have lower air temperatures, especially in summer. Their study highlights the importance of urban greenspaces in mitigating urban heat island effects and improving thermal comfort.
9th August, 2024
| Greg Howard
New Research Challenges in Threatened Dry Forests
Mediterranean forests, rich in biodiversity, face collapse due to severe droughts. A study by Universidad de La Serena reveals that resilience depends on drought intensity, pathogens, and management practices, urging conservation efforts to protect these vital ecosystems.
8th August, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Exploring Traditional Plant Uses in Two Neighboring Alpine Regions
A study by the University of Milan reveals how local plant knowledge in neighboring Alpine regions Valmalenco (Italy) and Valposchiavo (Switzerland) diverges due to historical and modern influences, despite their shared environment and culture.
8th August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Recyclable Sunflower-based Catalyst for Better Breakdown of Pharmaceuticals
A study by Universitat de Barcelona introduces pollen-based photocatalysts that efficiently degrade over 99% of pollutants in 90 minutes under visible light. These recyclable catalysts offer a sustainable solution for water purification and waste management.
7th August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Starch Recovery from Tiger Nut Milk Production Waste
Researchers at Universitat Politècnica de València have developed a chemical-free method to extract high-quality starch from tiger nut horchata residue. This sustainable process recovers up to 70% of the starch, offering a new way to reduce waste and create valuable resources.
7th August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Growth and Nutrient Absorption of Plants on Industrial Waste
Researchers found that Conocarpus erectus thrives better than Dodonaea viscosa in soils mixed with industrial waste. This suggests C. erectus's potential for restoring contaminated lands, highlighting its resilience and effectiveness in sustainable waste management.
6th August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Cold Plasma Boosts Antioxidant Recovery from Used Coffee Grounds
Researchers at Aristotle University optimized cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment to boost extraction of bioactive compounds from spent coffee grounds, significantly increasing phenolic content, caffeine, and antioxidant activity, offering a sustainable use for coffee waste.
5th August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Green Tech: Pectin-Iron Nanocomposites for Clean Water and Pathogen Control
Researchers at Saveetha University have developed a sustainable nanocomposite using pectin and nano zero-valent iron to effectively remove heavy metals from water. This eco-friendly solution shows promise in addressing contamination while being non-toxic and efficient.
4th August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Cleaning Harmful Chemicals from Soil Using Special Clay and Natural Enzymes
Researchers at Beijing University modified bentonite with saponin to create a stable enzyme carrier. This innovation achieved up to 65.69% removal of the carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene from contaminated soils, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for soil remediation.
4th August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
New Method Evaluates Water Quality and Health Risks Using Simulation Techniques
The University of Miskolc's study reveals significant heavy metal contamination in Algeria's desert aquifer, posing serious health risks, especially to children. Urgent water treatment and continuous monitoring are essential to safeguard public health and the environment.
3rd August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Understanding How Kelp Farming Can Help Capture Carbon and Reduce Erosion
A Newcastle University study reveals that small-scale kelp farming in Cornwall captures limited carbon, suggesting its primary benefits lie in low-carbon products, job creation, and biodiversity. Further research is needed to fully understand its carbon sequestration potential.
3rd August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Improving Tomato Plant Health Using Mutant Fungi and Bacteria with Radiation
The study by NSTRI reveals that Trichoderma and Bacillus species, including their gamma radiation mutants, effectively control root-knot nematodes in tomatoes. This sustainable method could replace harmful chemical nematicides, promoting safer agricultural practices.
3rd August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Creating Eco-Friendly Yarn from Food Waste Using Fungal Gels
The University of Borås explores using fungi to create eco-friendly materials for fashion. These fungal-based textiles are antimicrobial, biocompatible, and reduce waste, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers and lowering the industry's carbon footprint.
2nd August, 2024
| Greg Howard
Fishing Boats Moving Northward Across the Bering Sea Shelf from 2013 to 2022
Climate change is driving a northward shift in commercial fishing in the Bering Sea, as fish populations move poleward. This study maps these changes, highlighting the need for adaptive strategies to sustain one of the world's largest fisheries.
2nd August, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Pomegranate Peel Extract Balances Skin Bacteria: An Eco-Friendly Solution
Pomegranate Peel Extract (PPE) shows promise in restoring skin microbiota balance by targeting harmful Staphylococcus species. This eco-friendly and non-toxic approach could help manage skin health and prevent disorders linked to microbial imbalances.
31st July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Growth Duration and Yield of Traditional Maroon Rice Varieties Studied
Maroon rice landraces, cultivated by descendants of enslaved Africans, yield up to 2600 kg/ha without agrochemicals, outperforming commercial rice. This study highlights the potential of traditional farming and the rich agricultural heritage of Maroon communities.
30th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
Eco-Friendly Cubes for Sustainable Agrochemical Delivery
Researchers at the University of Münster have developed fully degradable polymer cubosomes for controlled agrochemical release. These innovative carriers address microplastic pollution and improve delivery efficiency, offering a sustainable solution for modern agriculture.
30th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
Shaping City Forests: Past Insights for Today's Urban Ecology
Urban forests improve city life by enhancing air quality and reducing heat, but their health is deeply influenced by historical land use. Understanding this history helps urban planners restore and maintain these vital green spaces more effectively.
28th July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Açai Seed Biochar Enhances Soil and Boosts Black Pepper Seedling Growth
Researchers from the Federal Institute of Pará have developed a low-cost method to turn acai seeds into biochar, improving soil quality and aiding forest regeneration. This sustainable approach helps manage waste and supports family farmers in the Amazon.
28th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Boosting Crop Yields and Farm Profits for Small Farmers Using Green Manures
Combining Alnus acuminata green manure with inorganic fertilizers significantly boosts crop yields and profitability in Rwanda, especially for potatoes. This integrated approach addresses soil fertility decline, enhancing food security in the East African highlands.
27th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Improving Compost Quality by Combining Pineapple Waste and Poultry Litter
A study from the University of Abomey-Calavi shows that mixing pineapple residues with poultry litter creates high-quality compost. The best mix (75% pineapple harvest residue + 25% poultry litter) enhances soil health, reduces waste, and supports sustainable agriculture.
25th July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Turning Potato Waste into Blue Pigments Using Beneficial Bacteria
Researchers at the University of La Frontera have found a sustainable way to turn discarded potato waste into valuable blue pigments using Streptomyces lydicus PM7. This method not only tackles potato waste disposal but also offers a cost-effective alternative to synthetic dyes.
24th July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Smart Food Packaging Using Gelatin and Beetroot Extract Films
Researchers at Kermanshah University have developed edible films using gelatin, HPMC, and red beet betalain to monitor food freshness. These smart films change color to indicate spoilage, offering consumers an easy visual cue for food quality, enhancing safety and storage.
23rd July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Using Tropical Fruit Waste to Boost Probiotic Health and Functionality
Probiotics face stress during processing and digestion, affecting their effectiveness. A study found that acerola, cashew, and guava fruit coproducts enhance probiotic growth, viability, and nutritional value, suggesting a dual benefit for health and sustainability.
22nd July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
Using Chestnut and Watermelon Peels to Clean Eosin Yellow Dye from Water
The University of the Punjab's study shows that citric acid-treated chestnut and watermelon peels can efficiently remove toxic Eosin yellow dye from wastewater, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution to industrial pollution.
22nd July, 2024
| Greg Howard
Creating Eco-Friendly Food Packaging from Fish Processing By-Products
Researchers at the Federal University of Paraíba have developed biodegradable films from fish by-products that improve food packaging. These films enhance barrier, thermal, and antioxidant properties, offering a sustainable and effective solution for protecting food.
21st July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
Creating Eco-Friendly Fungicides from Rosin for Sustainable Crop Protection
Researchers at Northwest A&F University have developed eco-friendly rosin-based fungicides, with Co. 6a showing high efficacy against apple canker. It damages fungal cell membranes and disrupts energy production, offering a novel, sustainable crop protection solution.
20th July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
How Heatwaves and CO₂ Levels Affect Mustard Plant Pollution Cleanup
Heatwaves, worsened by climate change, reduce plant biomass and phytoremediation efficiency. A study on Indian mustard shows higher CO2 levels can partially offset these effects, enhancing resilience and antioxidant activity during heat stress.
20th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
Forest Owner Views on Temporary, Voluntary Conservation
Finnish forest owners favor conservation programs that support biodiversity and carbon sequestration, with a preference for non-profit organizations. They prefer shorter contracts and higher payments, highlighting the need for tailored approaches to conservation.
19th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
19th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
19th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
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.
19th July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
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.
18th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
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.
17th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
17th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
17th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
16th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
16th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
14th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
13th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
13th July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
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.
12th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
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.
12th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
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.
12th July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
12th July, 2024
| Greg Howard
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.
11th July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
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.
3rd July, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
3rd July, 2024
| Jim Crocker
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.
29th June, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
28th June, 2024
| Jim Crocker
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.
28th June, 2024
| Greg Howard
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.
26th June, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
25th June, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
23rd June, 2024
| Jenn Hoskins
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.
23rd June, 2024
| Greg Howard
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.
21st June, 2024
| Jim Crocker
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.
