Staple Crops Are the Hidden Drivers of Deforestation

Kaleigh Harrison Deforestation has long been framed around a familiar set of high-risk commodities—beef, soy, and palm oil. But emerging research is shifting that narrative, pointing to a broader and more complex set of drivers. For companies managing sustainability risk, this change challenges long-held assumptions about where and how deforestation occurs. A More Fragmented Picture … Read more

Nanoplastics Amplify Toxicity of Tire Chemicals in Water

Kaleigh Harrison For years, micro- and nanoplastics have been viewed as more of an aesthetic and environmental nuisance than an active health risk. But recent findings suggest these particles are not just passive debris. In aquatic systems shaped by urban runoff and tire wear, plastic fragments are now acting as delivery vehicles—amplifying the toxicity of … Read more

Low-Cost Carbon Capture with Just Water and Pressure

Kaleigh Harrison A new method known as Pressure Induced Carbon Capture (PICC) is offering a low-tech twist on a high-stakes challenge: reducing the cost and complexity of capturing carbon dioxide from industrial emissions. Developed by researchers at Texas A&M University in partnership with ExcelThermic Enterprises, the PICC system skips over the expensive solvents and high-temperature … Read more

Nanoplastic Detection Enhanced with OM-SERS Technology

Kaleigh Harrison An international research team led by the University of Massachusetts Amherst has developed a novel approach to detecting and analyzing nanoplastics—particles smaller than one micrometer—in complex environmental and biological systems. This innovative technique, known as the OM-SERS system (Optical Manipulation and Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering), introduces a new standard for sensitivity and accuracy in … Read more

Maximizing Solar Energy Efficiency with AI-Driven Forecasting Models

Staff Writer Accurate solar energy forecasting has long been a challenge for energy managers and solar manufacturers alike. The variability of solar power due to weather conditions makes reliable predictions crucial for maintaining grid stability, optimizing storage, and ensuring efficient energy distribution. A new study evaluating different post-processing strategies in solar forecasting provides critical insights … Read more