Some countries are investing further into trains over planes, with hopes that the newest innovation in overnight European railway transportation will be more enticing for travelers than flying — based on the benefits to the environment, lower costs, and greater comfort. A new, “next generation” design in high-speed rail from the national Austrian train operator […]
The concept of clean fuel is typically associated with the 21st century, but scientists at a startup called Form Energy are looking to the past to discover energy storage solutions for the future. Here’s some background: Today’s battery market is largely dominated by lithium-ion, which is used in everything from electric cars to remote controls
140-Year-Old Rusty Batteries Inspire New Clean Energy Storage Solution Continue Reading »
In 1997, Julie Church was studying the nesting habits of sea turtles on Kiwayu Island, Kenya, as a project executant for World Wildlife Fund when she observed a distressing variable: Newly-hatched sea turtles had to crawl through heaps of trash on their maiden voyages into the ocean. Dotting the shore was Styrofoam flip-flop debris, which Church
Good for the Sole: Kenyan Nonprofit Upcycles Flip-Flops Into Colorful Art Continue Reading »
Researchers at the University of Cambridge in England have developed a new kind of flower power, creating “artificial leaves” that convert energy from sunlight and water into clean fuel. According to an article published on the university website, scientists said they gleaned inspiration from Mother Nature. The lightweight, flexible devices work similarly to photosynthesis, the
Floating “Artificial Leaves” Make Clean Fuel From Sunlight and Water Continue Reading »
Built on land reclaimed from the sea and surrounded by Holland’s world-famous tulip fields, the city of Almere is the perfect example of the Dutch’s delicate relationship with Mother Nature — and their flair for innovative urban development. So, it’s fitting that the modern “garden city” is the setting for Floriade, a solutions-focused horticulture expo.
Dutch Expo Showcases Creative Ways to Build a Greener Future  Continue Reading »
Ultrasounds, while safe and effective, require a trip to the doctor’s office or hospital, bulky equipment, and a slather of cold gel on the area to be imaged. But a group of MIT engineers hopes to change that process. The team has developed a small, ultrasound sticker that can provide continuous, high-resolution images of internal
Blood pressure is one of medicine’s most important measurements, not just as a diagnostic tool to predict cardiovascular disease and stroke risk, but also to monitor issues like kidney disease and diabetes. Inside the doctor’s office, restrictive blow-up arm cuffs do the job fine, but in more natural settings, measuring blood pressure is tricky. Fitbits
Researchers Develop Tattoo That Measures Blood Pressure Continue Reading »
The lionfish’s showstopping appearance makes it a star of many home aquariums. But in the wild, its presence is often sinister. Avid diver Aarav Chavda told The Guardian he became increasingly depressed witnessing the devastation the invasive species wrought on Florida’s tropical reefs. Then, he devised a plan to harvest lionfish and use their hides
Sustainable Fish Leather, Made From Invasive Species, Could Help Save Coral Reefs Continue Reading »
It can track workouts, improve sleep, and provide easy access to all your favorite phone apps. And now, Apple’s smartwatch can also help you accurately monitor and manage atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition that increases the risk for stroke, heart failure, and other heart problems. The AFib History feature is included in the watchOS 9
New Apple Watch Feature May Help Monitor Atrial Fibrillation  Continue Reading »
Manoj Patel, an architect based in Gujarat, India, uses everyday materials in unexpected ways to create designs that benefit people and the planet. One of his latest projects involves repurposing clay roof tiles to create beautiful, functional furniture that’s naturally cool, comfortable, and eco-conscious. As Patel explained to The Better India, most outdoor furniture is
Architect Recycles Clay Roof Tiles to Create Unique, Eco-Friendly Furniture Continue Reading »
