- science ClimateFive minerals that can help to save the planet from the carbon crisis (natural kryptonite is one of them)The switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy is going to need some nifty technology that depends on chemical elements that we have not used much before, and most of these come from minerals in rocks in the Earth’s crust. Five of these minerals stand out as Earth’s potential lifesavers.
- science Circular EconomyFrom waste to wealth: Overijssel’s Green RevolutionThe province of Overijssel is known for its robust agricultural and animal-farming activities. But the bustling livestock farms come with a cost. The animals produce an overwhelming amount of manure, leading to water pollution and harmful emissions. But what if this ‘waste’ could become a source of energy?
- science ClimateWill we be going on holiday in a hydrogen plane in 10 years' time?How can we make our holidays more sustainable? A question that concerns many engineers, scientists, and citizens. Emissions need to decrease, but in the aviation industry, that's not so simple yet. Research at the University of Twente is investigating a promising technology that could lead to hydrogen-powered airplanes: cryogenic superconductivity.
- science ClimateThis glass laboratory could be the key to unlimited clean drinking waterA looming shortage of clean drinking water is screaming for innovations in water treatment. The Waterlab of the Membrane Science and Technology cluster gives an insight into possible solutions.
- science DigitalisationThe pollution of our digital worldBitcoin, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and other popular blockchain innovations represent our shift to a digital society. But this transition comes at a cost. The emissions generated by these blockchain technologies from the year 2021 alone are responsible for around 19,000 future deaths. This alarming statistic raises many questions: How is this possible and what can we do about it?
- science ClimateGod created the earth, but the Dutch created the NetherlandsThe Netherlands has been fighting a battle against water for centuries. This symbolism of water as the enemy was popular among 20th-century engineers. In the 21st century, there is more focus on natural processes, and we speak of water management instead. But what will the Dutch water landscape look like in another century?
- science ClimateWhy we need to think about a climate plan BCan we limit global warming to 1.5 oC? Unlikely, if you'd ask Debra Roberts. The co-chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is already brainstorming about a plan B. What could be our next steps?