As the Northern Hemisphere experiences record breaking weather, the need for water conservation and reducing CO2 emissions has become an even more pressing issue globally. In response to this, we have highlighted some exciting technologies that aim to revolutionise desalination systems, reduce plastic waste, capture CO2, and purify water.

Electrochemical Device that Captures Carbon Dioxide

Researchers at Rice University introduced an innovative electrochemical device with the potential to transform our approach to carbon dioxide capture and reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. By flicking a switch, this novel technology is able to remove carbon dioxide directly from the air, a process researchers believe could be streamlined and commercialised in the near future.

The device is uniquely designed to quickly alternate between capturing and releasing CO2, allowing for seamless operation and practical application towards mitigating climate change.

Desalination Revolution: Electrifying the World’s Water Purification

Scientists from the Beckman Institute are researching deionization technology aiming to remove salt from saltwater, so desalination becomes more economically feasible and sustainable. Essentially this method effectively purifies water by using electric fields to remove impurities and ions instead of the traditional membranes or filters used in water purification & desalination.

This innovative approach integrates well with renewable energy sources, offering the possibility to substantially improve current water treatment methods globally.

A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Wastewater Desalination

A recent study published in Nature has uncovered a groundbreaking method for desalinating industrial wastewater that is both more sustainable and cost-effective.

The approach, developed by a team of scientists led by the Wyss Institute at Harvard and Vanderbilt, utilises an innovative filtration system known as temperature swing solvent extraction (TSSE). This cutting-edge technology works by separating and recovering water and salts under varying temperatures, ultimately offering a more environmentally friendly and affordable solution to address the global water crisis.

Predatory Bacteria: The Key to Chlorine-Free Drinking Water?

Researchers from Vanderbilt University explore the potential of using predatory bacteria to create a chlorine-free drinking water system. The study examines the use of the bacteria Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus to combat harmful microorganisms and biofilms often found in drinking water pipelines. By utilising these unique bacteria, the researchers hope to develop a more environmentally friendly and sustainable method for maintaining water quality, thus reducing the reliance on traditional chemical treatments such as chlorine.

Pineapple Stem Starch: A Sustainable Solution to Single-Use Plastics?

A research team from Thailand and Malaysia are exploring an innovative approach to tackling single-use plastic pollution through the use of pineapple stem starch.

Scientists from the University of Putra Malaysia have successfully developed a biodegradable composite material made from pineapple stem starch. This eco-friendly material holds promising potential for single-use applications such as replacing plastic cutlery, disposable plates, and other non-recyclable items.

By harnessing the power of waste produced during pineapple processing, this breakthrough discovery could play a significant role in reducing our reliance on single-use plastics and promoting sustainability.

Unveiling a Revolutionary Water-Splitting Technique

In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at the University of Münster, a new water splitting technique has been developed by using an efficient catalyst and harnessing sunlight, the team managed to create an environmentally-friendly and sustainable method to obtain hydrogen and oxygen from water.

This revolutionary approach offers a promising alternative to traditional and resource-intensive hydrogen production methods, paving the way towards more sustainable energy solutions in the future.

Using Chicken feathers to filter waste water

Researchers at the University of Alberta are repurposing chicken feathers for an eco-friendly purpose – wastewater filtration. Scientists are working on transforming poultry waste, specifically chicken feathers, into biodegradable water filters. The team breaks down the feathers to create a material that can absorb harmful contaminants from water, such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products and synthetic hormones.

 This innovative approach holds the potential for both reducing poultry waste and establishing a more sustainable means of water filtration.