A hybrid photocatalyst system from Science Tokyo tackles an overlooked flaw in artificial photosynthesis to dramatically improve CO₂-to-formate conversion. Unlike conventional designs where light degrades the molecular catalyst, the new system selectively excites the semiconductor and transfers electrons to the catalytic site. By preventing light-induced damage, it raises efficiency to 27.7%, a leap that could help turn CO₂ into valuable chemicals for a carbon-neutral society.

A new study shows that systems designed to capture methane from cow manure, called dairy digesters, are highly effective. But on the rare occasions they fail, the leaks are large enough to offset their climate benefits.

A new study reveals that biochar, a carbon-rich material increasingly promoted for sustainable agriculture, can significantly reduce methane emissions from rice paddies. However, its climate benefits depend strongly on how much nitrogen fertilizer is applied.

Researchers, including those from the University of Tokyo, combine various past climate data to investigate the impacts of ancient volcanic eruptions. They explored eruptions in the tropics over the last 1,000 years and found some large eruptions have far-reaching climatic consequences. Preserved tree rings, as well as climate models, show evidence that some monsoon activity is reduced following particularly large tropical eruptions. This research could impact current climate models, eruption simulations, and even influence long-term disaster preparedness given the potential impact eruptions can have on monsoon-dependent crop supplies. 

The Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has launched the Exploring Marine Biodiversity: Empowering Youth Ambassadors for Ocean Stewardship programme. Supported by the Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF), the programme immerses local secondary school students in marine science through hands-on training, empowering them as the next generation of ocean stewards.

The chemical composition of meteorites and asteroids acts as a kind of fingerprint, providing information about the origin of the building materials that formed the Earth. 

Using a new analysis of existing data, the researchers show that this material must exclusively come from the inner solar system. 

The material that formed the Earth is similar to that found on Mars and the asteroid Vesta. The Earth is thus part of a trend line extending from the Sun. 

This close relationship also enables predictions to be made about the composition of Venus and Mercury, from which we have no known samples. 

A new review highlights how a carbon-rich material made from agricultural waste could help reverse land degradation, boost food production, and strengthen climate resilience in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.