New global index proposed to manage natural resources more sustainably
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 10-Sep-2025 15:11 ET (10-Sep-2025 19:11 GMT/UTC)
An international collaboration of conservation, environment, and human development experts and practitioners led by the United Nations Development Program’s Human Development Report Office (UNDP-HDRO) proposes a new way for countries to measure and improve their relationships with nature and each other.
How can we accelerate the energy transition in a socially responsible way? Empa researchers propose a publicly funded basic service in solar energy that would increase energy autonomy, create social justice and promote further investment in renewable energies. This requires – among other things – a third of all roofs in Switzerland and a total investment every 30 years that is roughly equivalent to the average gross monthly salary per Swiss citizen.
This special issue on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) addresses the critical role of CCUS in mitigating climate change by bridging energy needs and environmental goals. It explores various aspects of CCUS, including enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies, geological storage mechanisms, and CO2 utilization methods. The articles delve into factors influencing CO2-EOR efficiency, innovative materials for profile control in high-temperature applications, and the potential of mineralization-driven storage in sandstones and shales. Additionally, the issue examines safety concerns related to wellbore integrity and proposes solutions for long-term infrastructure durability. Contributions also highlight the development of CO2-mineralized materials from industrial waste, showcasing the integration of decarbonization and waste management. This collection of research aims to foster meaningful discussions and guide future investigations in the field of CCUS.
An international team of scientists has developed a biodegradable material that could slash global energy consumption without using any electricity, according to a new study published today.
In the ever-evolving landscape of geospatial technology, innovations are steadily advancing our capabilities in Earth monitoring and urban planning. Precise positioning technologies and geoinformation science have become essential for various applications, from scientific research on global climate change and earthquake monitoring to supporting major initiatives in satellite navigation and smart city development. This article explores recent advancements in the field, including improvements in Terrestrial Reference Frame accuracy, real-time seismic monitoring through Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs), the development of advanced hyperspectral imaging systems, new techniques for ionospheric irregularity detection, and the creation of three-dimensional (3D) building space datasets for urban planning. These developments, while incremental, collectively enhance our ability to understand and manage our planet's resources and urban environments with greater precision and insight.