Scientists have found that an item widely used in kitchens can absorb...

CNN Climate 9 months ago

Scientists have found that an item widely used in kitchens can absorb planet-heating carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, in what they hope will become a low-cost and efficient tool to slow climate change. Scientists from the University of Cambridge in England used activated charcoal — a sponge-like substance used in household water filters — and "charged" it like a battery to see if it would absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from the air. While activated charcoal can filter impurities in water, it wouldn't normally be able to capture CO2. But scientists discovered this changed when they mimicked the process of charging a battery — in which ions stick to a battery's electrodes — using chemical compounds called hydroxides. Read more at the link in our bio. 📸: University of Cambridge

Daily Sustainability Digest

Published about 7 hours ago



Chris Skidmore, the UK's former net zero advisor, and Patricia Espinosa, former UN climate chief, have launched the Global Clean Power Taskforce. The new coalition aims to address setbacks in global climate action policies and accelerate international cooperation in renewable energy and clean power infrastructure. This initiative highlights the ongoing commitment internationally to net zero carbon and sustainable development in energy production and consumption.

Leading global technology firms including Amazon, Google, and Meta have jointly pledged to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050. This significant corporate collaboration underscores nuclear power's essential role alongside renewable energy sources, enhancing energy security and supporting the broader transition to sustainable, energy-efficient buildings and infrastructure worldwide.

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In Exeter, IHG Hotels & Resorts unveiled its first net zero carbon hotel, designed explicitly for eco-conscious guests. The new hotel is a prominent example of innovative green construction, sustainable design, and sustainable architecture, representing substantial progress towards carbon neutral construction within the hospitality industry. This project clearly demonstrates practical advances towards energy-efficient buildings and overall carbon footprint reduction.

A local UK council has announced plans to reduce fleet carbon emissions by 20% through conversion to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). This practical step provides a measurable reduction in carbon emissions, significantly decreasing the environmental impact of construction and infrastructure operations. The council's switch illustrates effective and sustainable building practices that can be replicated by local governments globally.

UK Secretary for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, has travelled to Beijing to strengthen cooperative international climate action, prioritising discussions on phasing out coal power. Miliband's diplomatic engagement with China contributes to stronger joint commitments on clean technology, sustainable urban development, circular economy initiatives, and enhancing global sustainability policy ahead of the upcoming COP30 summit.

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