Decentralized finance (DeFi) is a game-changing subsection of financial technologies, or fintech. People may be familiar with the terminology relating to cryptocurrency and how all transactions are distributed and verified in a peer-to-peer fashion instead of through a bank. However, people know doing everything online is energy-intensive and results in emissions. This is where carbon credit trading comes in.

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What Is DeFi and How Does It Relate to Carbon Credits?

Decentralized finance (DeFi) is a technology that removes the need for banks. A purchase or trade no longer needs a third party. Instead, DeFi uses these assets to give people the power to monitor their monetary activities:

• Blockchain: A digital database, or ledger, made of block-like links that can keep track of, verify, and encrypt transactions. It is the backbone of many cryptocurrencies.
• Distributed ledger technology (DLT): A network of data where every node contains an unalterable version of the ledger. All blockchains are DLTs.
• Cryptocurrency: A digital money system that is decentralized, encrypted, and currently unregulated by most governments. It is awarded to people by mining, which requires software and hardware to solve math problems, adding blocks to the chain to make it more reliable.
• Carbon credits: Limited allowances corporations and individuals can buy to produce a predetermined amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Tokenized carbon credits are digital versions within blockchains.
• NFTs: Non-fungible tokens, which are akin to digital certificates of authenticity for online assets, like art or carbon credits.

Decentralized finance has operated without tokenized carbon credits for years, and the concept’s introduction is a necessary step in promoting the climate conversation in fintech.

Why Do Tokenized Carbon Credits Matter?

The online finance space could have a more eco-friendly reputation but demands seemingly limitless computing power and energy. Mining cryptocurrency produces 25-50 megatons of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually in the US alone, which is on par with the nation’s emissions from diesel fuel in the railroad sector. While DeFi platforms give consumers endless freedom, it has a high climate impact.

Using DeFi for carbon credit trading could flip this narrative on its head. It could start a revolution of transparent, eco-conscious trading in secure, digital environments. Tokenizing carbon credits makes them accessible to a wider audience.

Smart contracts, which are blockchain versions of paper documents, reinforce the safety of token-based trading. They are unchangeable and traceable, making them perfect for holding people accountable for their climate impact. This program contains all the information about the owner and seller of the carbon credit. The information is publicly viewable, introducing never-before-seen visibility in climate conversations.

How Do Digital Carbon Credits Operate?

A credit moves to the blockchain over a carbon bridge, a technology connecting the chain to conventional carbon registries. The bridge carries the metadata about each credit over, making a certifiable token in the internet ether.

While blockchain is one of the most secure online mechanisms, it is still prone to cyberthreats. Many trade cryptocurrency and carbon credits through online DeFi platforms, which are susceptible to phishing, malware, social engineering, and distributed denial-of-service attacks, to name a few. A trader may receive a spoofed text or email resembling their trading platform, requesting information validation. The contents seem urgent with a generalized greeting, but in reality, it is a hacker stealing data.

Mending these gaps in DeFi is crucial for maintaining its glowing reputation. If the systems behind it fall apart, so will carbon credit trading. People should not steer away from it when decarbonizing the finance world is so vital. Additionally, these online applications will gradually move to less resource-intensive platforms. Online trading uses tons of electricity, most of which is fossil fuel-based. Shifting to the cloud – which is more eco-conscious – and leveraging green software will provide a more carbon-friendly structure to DeFi carbon credit trading.

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Saving Emissions Through DeFi

Carbon credit trading platforms will require environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting. This means companies will need to submit climate data to agencies like the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) or the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) to document emissions improvements. Third-party accountability is vital for long-term success.

Certain corporations are making voluntary carbon markets a trend. One example is AirCarbon Exchange out of Singapore, the first to be regulated. It predicts the market will skyrocket by 2030 to achieve net-zero goals. Introducing these influential platforms will pressure policymakers to regulate the crypto world faster. This will benefit DeFi, carbon credits, and sustainability reporting simultaneously, as they all need updates. 

Another success story comes from the platform ClimateTrade. It provides credits and offsets through an easy-to-use marketplace. It was founded in 2017 but gained traction in 2019, and it has since offset 5.5 million tons of emissions with over 3,000 registered users. The investments go toward verified projects to build wind farms or hydropower.

Carbon NFTs and the World of Decentralized Emissions

The language surrounding DeFi, cryptocurrency, NFTs, and blockchain is still brand new in the broader scope of the finance world. It has not stopped experts from finding ways to expand its potential early in its life.

Worldwide, enthusiasts and tech experts are tackling sustainability issues in this space by revolutionizing carbon credits for good. As trading gains traction, it will spark productive conversations in fintech to be more responsible for greener futures.

The post Decentralized Finance for Carbon Credits Trading: Innovating Emissions Reduction appeared first on Earth.Org.

Today’s high-powered economy necessitates an uninterrupted supply chain to maintain profitability and meet consumer demand. However, a changing climate threatens even the most well-crafted sales and operations planning (S&OP) strategies. 

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S&OP synchronizes various sales and operations teams to ensure steady production and distribution of goods. By including resilience planning in S&OP strategies, companies can climate-proof themselves from potential disruptions. 

Here is an in-depth look at how climate change has already undermined S&OP strategies and ways businesses can prepare.

The Impact of Climate Change on the Supply Chain

Climate change effects on supply chain operations are nothing new, and analyses suggest they will worsen in the coming years. Already, companies have grappled with food product shortages after extreme weather upended production in targeted regions.

For instance, lobster populations are down 40% in Maine, where ocean temperatures have risen significantly from global warming. The downward trend has hindered lobster availability in stores and restaurants, driven costs upward, and negatively affected lobstermen’s livelihoods. 

Meanwhile, in 2017, Hurricane Maria decimated coconut trees in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, which are of economic value and a vital food source. According to one report, Puerto Rico saw a decline of $19 million in coconut crop sales from 2012 to 2018, much of which was attributed to storm damage. Hurricane Maria alone caused an 80% decline in agricultural crop value overall, wracking up $780 in losses.

Europe has also endured impacts, with heavy precipitation and snowmelt ceasing shipping operations in the Rhine River in Germany. Although recent flooding has caused several problems in one of the most crucial commercial waterways, cargo ships have also had to contend with droughts. In 2022, the river’s water levels reached record lows, forcing many ships to reduce their loads by half to avoid getting stuck. This slowed the transportation of goods significantly.

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Since climate change impacts are so prevalent, 80% of companies anticipate future supply chain disruptions – in addition to 75% reporting current issues. A sound approach is needed to address the vulnerabilities before they become a reality.

5 Ways S&OP Can Prepare for Future Climate

Implementing resilience planning into S&OP strategies is no longer a subtle nuance. If companies hope to stay afloat when faced with climate change impacts, they must temper threats to the supply chain. Whether a hurricane shuts off the power at a production plant or summer heat dries up water resources, S&OP teams can prepare in five ways.

1. Simulate Scenarios

Simulating potential climate-induced disruptions allows S&OP teams to minimize real-life effects on businesses and develop continuity solutions. For example, what happens if a major storm knocks out power at a manufacturing plant? Futuring sets a plan in place to restore electricity, save energy, and restart production. 

It is crucial for teams to review processes regularly and make changes and improvements. By exhausting different scenarios, companies can measure revenue loss from possible disruptions.  

2. Diversify the Supply Chain

Many companies have a just-in-time approach to the supply chain, relying on specific suppliers without backup sources. However, nowadays, they need more. Supplier diversification can better absorb inventory shocks during climate-related weather conditions, creating greater resilience and faster recovery.

Building relationships with suppliers from different locations allows companies to fall back on an alternate source when natural disasters and other challenges strike their original supplier.  

3. Adopt Flexibility

Climate adaptation is a cornerstone of resilience planning in S&OP strategies. A business capable of modulating production at a moment’s notice ensures it can continue operations and meet consumer demand.

Adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies is ideal for real-time adjustments. For example, automation can offset potential labor shortages at a facility during unforeseen circumstances.

4. Utilize AI-Powered Solutions

Widespread industries have integrated AI solutions into their business models. In inventory management, AI-powered software improves the forecasting and tracking of goods, indicates inefficiencies, and identifies risks.

Automating the supply chain and streamlining inventory management increases revenue by 4% and lowers costs by 10%. However, achieving maximum efficiency requires S&OP teams to reconsider hiring, performance, and other functions. This requires participation from all stakeholders with weekly and monthly reassessments for more robust inventory planning. 

More about the topic: Can AI Help Achieve Environmental Sustainability? 

5. Establish a Communication Plan

A company is only as resilient as its communication protocols during climate change impacts. As such, it is crucial for S&OP strategies to plan for transmission disruptions. A formal communication plan ensures staff, suppliers, and consumers are aware of interruptions and ready to act.

For starters, businesses must have an established chain of command responsible for the initial messaging. Communicating expectations before an event is also best to foster trust and cooperation among teams. Additionally, utilizing several messaging channels allows leaders to reach everyone across various departments, keeping teams updated frequently to boost morale. 

Navigate Climate-Related Challenges With S&OP Planning

Climate change is accelerating rapidly, leaving industries in a lurch. Resilience planning safeguards companies from supply chain disruptions and lost revenue during uncertain times. S&OP stakeholders can easily achieve their long-term mission and goals by assessing the risks and embracing mitigation.

The post Resilience Planning for Climate Change Impacts in S&OP Strategies  appeared first on Earth.Org.

The advent of 5G has emerged as a game-changer in the way people communicate and share data. Beyond providing mobile users with stronger cellular connectivity, the technology promises to transform how businesses innovate and meet their sustainability goals completely.

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5G and Sustainable Business Communication

5G is the fifth generation of cellular networking designed to deliver reliable connectivity over high-band spectrum at speeds of up to 20 Gbps (billions of bits per second). The technology also boasts ultra-low latency rates of less than 10 milliseconds, making super-fast and reliable connections a reality.

Communication is vital to any organization, enabling employees to collaborate, exchange information, and make decisions effectively. 5G’s features will revolutionize several aspects of how brands communicate with personnel and customers. 

Internal Communications

Generally speaking, faster and more reliable internet connections will transform internal activities, from company-wide updates to specific end-to-end messaging. Because 5G is capable of delivering fast speeds to a large capacity of devices, employees can access information and communicate with each other without any lag.

The technology can also improve collaboration and productivity. With faster, more reliable internet connectivity, team members can work on collaborative projects in real time and get work done more efficiently. For instance, video conferencing can become smoother, streamlining face-to-face and virtual meetings.

5G can support more data traffic and handle more devices simultaneously, which can be highly beneficial for enterprises that work with many cloud-based applications and services. Staff can enjoy faster and more reliable access to these resources.

External Communications

5G will also transform how businesses communicate with customers and external stakeholders. For example, it can facilitate the creation of advanced apps that improve collaborations with other professionals.

It could also open doors to international partnerships, which may not have been possible previously due to limited bandwidth and unreliable connections. Adopting 5G technology for communication can also make it easier for potential customers to discover a brand through improved location services and fewer performance issues.

Improved Remote Working Conditions 

With remote and hybrid work expected to continue going strong in the coming years, 5G will be pivotal in addressing the barriers to widespread adoption. Improved speeds and reliable connectivity through 5G-enabled infrastructure will transform communication by ensuring smoother calls, messaging and video meetings.

5G would also benefit remote staff recruitment and retention. Finding the ideal employees can be difficult when organizations are restrained by distance. With faster and more robust internet, people can work from anywhere and still stay connected to their colleagues. This can improve work-life balance without compromising productivity and save on the costs of renting physical office spaces.

New Communication Possibilities

With 5G, companies can explore newer ways to communicate that were impossible with previous wireless technologies. For example, it can facilitate the adoption of augmented reality and virtual reality in business communication, which can be especially beneficial in enhancing training sessions, simulations, and remote collaborations. AR and VR systems can also help brands create more interactive and immersive experiences, allowing them to improve customer engagement and brand loyalty.

5G and Sustainability

As with the emergence of any new, far-reaching technology, 5G is not without its environmental impacts. For a starter, deploying 5G infrastructure could disrupt entire ecosystems. The technology’s increased data transmission speed and capacity means putting up more structures in areas native animal and plant species have long occupied.

Wireless waves may also affect endemic and migratory birds. A study found that exposure to cell tower radiation for just 5–30 minutes disfigured the eggs of sparrows.

Keeping these towers operational consumes a lot of energy, too, contributing to global warming. Recent research shows introducing 5G could triple the CO2 emissions from telecom towers in India. On the bright side, the study also suggests using solar PV hybrid systems to power these infrastructures could reduce up to 55% of the emissions.

The Need for a Proactive Approach 

Eco-conscious practices are increasingly becoming imperative. Adopting 5G technology is key to achieving these objectives. For one, a 5G cell site uses up a mere 15% of the energy of a comparable 4G cell site to transmit the same data. By switching to these energy-efficient networks, businesses can already begin to reduce their operational carbon footprint. 

5G is also a key enabling technology for innovative solutions that can promote sustainability in operations and contribute to other environmental goals. For example, it can facilitate greater adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in communication. These advanced sensors can collect data, automate processes, and monitor equipment performance in real-time, improving efficiency and lowering costs. 

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By enhancing remote work, 5G technology can lead to a noticeable decrease in greenhouse gas emissions associated with day-to-day commuting. Focusing on sustainable practices can also improve profitability and enhance customer attraction, especially among younger generations. A recent study shows 92% of millennials are more likely to patronize ethical brands.

Challenges Ahead

While the potential benefits of 5G in business applications are immense and undeniable, a few key challenges remain. Taking advantage of the technology requires enterprises to have the necessary infrastructure in place, such as 5G-compatible devices, networks, and software. Upgrading existing systems can be expensive and time-consuming – it costs around $76,000 just to rent a helicopter to place 5G equipment on a cell tower.

To offset carbon emissions, tower stations must be powered by renewable energy sources. Setting up those systems often requires substantial capital investment.

Faster speeds and more reliable connectivity can also increase the risks of data breaches and sustained cyber attacks. Enterprises must ensure they have the necessary security measures to secure their data and networks.

Not everyone will have immediate access to 5G, which could widen the digital divide and make offerings more inaccessible. Nevertheless, it is seeing increased usage across individual and commercial applications. The International Data Corporation estimates 155 million 5G devices will be shipped out by 2027.

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Explore Exciting Developments in 5G Technology

5G technology can potentially revamp business communication and accelerate operations toward net zero. With faster connectivity, improved collaboration, and new communication possibilities, companies have abundant opportunities to expand their reach internally and externally. The technology will also allow fast-track organization-wide efforts to pursue sustainability goals through reduced energy consumption and lower carbon emissions.

The post 5G and the Future of Sustainable Business Communication  appeared first on Earth.Org.

Companies can improve their sustainability efforts amid growing concerns about the colossal carbon footprint of the global supply chain by introducing automation technologies into core processes. Here’s how.

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Sustainability in the supply chain involves increasing business efficiency and overcoming modern challenges with careful consideration of potential environmental impacts. It is about mapping the entire ecosystem and embedding eco-conscious practices to minimize the carbon footprint of a business’ operations.

Earth.Org takes a look at the major ways automation can transform how businesses manage the flow of goods, data, and finances while reducing environmental harm. 

The Role of Automation in Supply Chain Sustainability 

Supply chain automation entails deploying technology solutions to streamline and automate core business processes, including inventory management, order processing, and logistics. 

Examples of these automation solutions include artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, blockchain, and robots. Together, these technologies can facilitate improved sustainability across the supply chain. 

1. Carbon-Neutral Transportation

Experts predict there will be 36% more delivery vehicles globally by 2030, which will generate an additional 6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Automation through electric self-driving trucks can save over 63% of the carbon emissions of a comparable diesel vehicle. Admittedly, autonomous cars are not mainstream yet, but you could see them in California this year. 

In the meantime, drones and delivery robots might be a more practical option. Research shows that adopting these in an existing supply chain can lead to over 90% reduction in energy consumption per package compared to other vehicles. 

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2. Route Optimization 

The longer delivery vehicles are on the road, air, or water, the more greenhouse gasses are emitted. Deploying AI to optimize routes for quicker, more efficient deliveries can significantly reduce emissions. 

For instance, IBM’s Supply Chain Insights platform analyzes real-time traffic, weather, and other variables to optimize shipping routes while considering cost and sustainability impact. American retail giant Walmart also uses AI in its supply chain to automate inventory management across 4,700 facilities for more efficient shipping to warehouses, stores, and customers.

3. Waste Reduction 

Roughly $163 billion worth of inventory is discarded every year globally due to oversupply or damage. This can lead to air pollution as well as water and soil contamination, with serious repercussions on the environment.

Integrating IoT sensors can revolutionize waste management in supply chains by delivering real-time insights throughout the process. For example, interconnected devices and analytics in delivery vehicles can monitor the condition of perishable goods based on a predefined scale. If the shipment is delayed and products hit a set limit, the sensors alert suppliers so they can reroute the package to a nearer sorting facility. This reduces waste and saves costs across the supply chain. 

4. Dynamic Production 

Demand tends to fluctuate for most consumer goods, so it makes sense to slow production and ramp up at certain periods. Machine learning can use vast historical data to design dynamic production lines based on demand fluctuations.

Manufacturers are also installing AI-enabled IoT devices in machinery and equipment to predict potential disruptions in production. PepsiCo recently analyzed over 300 million machine hours to create algorithms that can identify malfunction patterns and deploy preventive measures. This improves efficiency in the value chain, saving valuable time and repair costs. 

5. Energy-Saving Integrations 

Across the supply chain, energy production and consumption directly lead to environmental issues, including air pollution, water contamination, and waste disposal.

Companies can enhance energy management through automation. AI-powered smart sensors monitor and control power usage, creating more efficient equipment scheduling. The data from these sensors can also be used to identify and address inefficiencies, ensuring optimal performance.

6. Process Automation 

Manual errors in supply chain processes can be costly to the environment. For example, if an online store delivered the wrong product due to a clerical error, shipping the correct item could mean increased energy consumption and carbon emissions. Automation makes such errors less likely to occur in the first place. 

Automating workflows can reduce costs by up to 90% while providing more accurate data for strategic decision-making. They also enable teams to move away from mundane tasks to higher-level projects. 

7. Material Handling 

People order products that contain hazardous materials all the time. Mobile phones, camping equipment, essential oils, and even nail polish contain potentially toxic substances. Improper handling, hauling, or storage of these items poses significant ecological risks, including widespread fire damage and soil pollution.  

IoT systems can improve material handling safety. For example, AI-equipped sensors can monitor hazardous goods for potential issues during transport or storage and implement automated safety procedures. 

Why Are Sustainable Supply Chains Important?

Automated sustainability measures are more imperative than ever, especially considering that 90% of a company’s carbon emissions come from its supply chain. This encompasses manufacturing, logistics, and waste management systems. 

Additionally, more consumers are becoming conscious of their shopping habits and environmental consequences. Statistics reveal that 85% of buyers have become greener in their purchases in the last five years, with one-third willing to pay more for eco-friendly products. 

Ultimately, this means businesses must join the sustainability movement or risk being on the receiving end of changing consumer preferences. Adopting sustainable supply chains can lead to improved customer acquisition, increased profit potential, and a stronger company reputation.

What Can People Do to Enhance Supply Chain Sustainability?

Consumers also play an essential role in enforcing environment-conscious supply chains. For instance, whenever someone buys local, sustainably sourced products, they reduce environmental impact by up to 26% less automobile miles.

Educating yourself about supply chain sustainability and having conversations on the subject helps keep it at the forefront of buying decisions. It also equips shoppers with the most recent best practices on related issues, such as ethical sourcing and natural resource conservation. 

People can also promote collaboration between sustainable supply chains. If they know business owners who can benefit from partnering with similar-minded organizations in the network, they can facilitate the connection. Strategic partnerships for improving eco-consciousness in business are always great for the environment.  

An ESG-focused transformation is heading to the manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution sectors. Businesses must look into automation solutions that bolster their sustainability efforts, maintain competitive advantage, allow them scale their operations quickly, and expand into new markets.

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The post Can Automation Enhance Supply Chain Sustainability for Businesses? appeared first on Earth.Org.

Which topics from school do you remember most vividly? For many people, hands-on lessons like dissecting frogs and building batteries stand out – rather than lecturing their students, teachers let them put your knowledge to the test. This made school more enjoyable and helped you retain concepts. STEM education integrates science, technology, engineering, and maths to teach students how to solve real-world challenges. Few sectors face more sustainability issues than transportation but students who learn STEM will be better equipped to solve them. Here is why.

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What Is STEM-Based Education?

STEM is a discipline that combines Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics into a single subject. It teaches students how to approach problems from any of the four disciplines by creating fun and interactive lessons that integrate these topics. 

STEM is hands-on and problem-focused – students participate directly in the learning process rather than just listening to lectures. STEM students become empowered and confident critical thinkers by solving real-world challenges. They learn to observe and manipulate the world around them within and outside the classroom.

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Getting More Students Into STEM

The world faces increasingly complex sustainability challenges, and giving all students the chance to earn a STEM degree is more important than ever. Although the STEM job market is expanding, a gender gap has become apparent, with girls in many countries avoiding these degrees or performing worse than boys on the same topics. 

This is not a result of biology. It is about how different cultures socialise and educate children – and how this affects their perception of the world. How can we encourage more girls to participate in STEM?

It is important to start preparing girls for STEM early on. Strong elementary school maths programmes help girls develop confidence at a young age. Female science, maths, technology, and engineering teachers give girls positive role models to learn from. Importantly, when students show an interest in STEM, parents and educators should encourage them to pursue the topic.

Recruiting more girls to earn STEM degrees will be crucial for meeting the world’s growing sustainability needs, especially as the global shipping network expands. 

Environmental Challenges in Shipping

The worldwide movement of goods has changed most people’s lives for the better. Before the advent of refrigeration, the only fresh foods people could access came from local farms. Today, you can order food, clothes, and even medicine from around the world right to your door. In many cases, orders arrive the same day they are placed, an astonishing feat made possible by logistics and GPS technology improvements. 

While the staggering increase in goods transportation offers many benefits, the transportation sector is also responsible for a major uptick in carbon dioxide emissions and air pollution. Collectively, ground-based freight vehicles and international cargo ships account for 35% of the sector’s carbon footprint and the industry emits over 7 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. 

Creating a greener shipping industry will require a collaborative effort from the world’s best and brightest minds. Chemists must discover new, low-carbon fuels. Engineers must design better electric batteries and hydrogen fuel cells. It will take strong leaders and policymakers to implement these changes and educate the public about them. Who better to turn to than today’s STEM students?

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4 Reasons Why STEM Education Is Important

Why are STEM students the future of sustainable transportation?

1. Job Opportunities

STEM students graduate with skills that translate to more advanced jobs, such as engineering and research roles. In the US, STEM-based positions pay $53,310 more than the median wage of non-STEM occupations annually, giving people a better quality of life. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment in the STEM sector will grow by 10.8% from 2022 to 2032.

2. Literacy

Students who earn STEM degrees are more scientifically literate. They can read journal articles with ease, understand biases in data, and translate complicated topics into discourses anyone can understand. A thorough understanding of the scientific method is crucial for working in chemistry, biology, and physics, all of which can improve the shipping industry.

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3. Creative Thinking

Another reason STEM education is so critical is that graduates are innovative. Creative thinkers can brainstorm solutions to issues like improving cargo trucks’ battery life or building better scrubbers for ship exhaust pipes. They can design more efficient vehicles with lower environmental impacts for transporting goods.

4. Improved Teamwork

Participating in group projects throughout school also develops STEM students’ teamwork skills, making them better at collaborating with co-workers as adults. It’s an especially important ability to have in fields like research and development, where people often work together to solve complex problems. 

The Road to a Greener World

Reducing the freight industry’s carbon footprint will require changes in policy, vehicle design, and even shipping routes. Overhauling the transportation sector is a massive undertaking, but it is necessary for the planet’s health. Cultivating and supporting a love of science, technology, engineering, and maths will help today’s STEM students become tomorrow’s leaders in sustainability.

You might also like: Sustainable Shipping Companies: Are the World’s Top Brands Keeping their Green Promises?

The post Why STEM Education Is Vital for Developing Innovative Solutions in Sustainable Goods Transportation appeared first on Earth.Org.

Climate change has prompted many companies to take sustainability pledges to lessen their environmental impact. These initiatives directly correspond with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals created by the United Nations to facilitate the transition to net zero by 2050. While this is obtainable, making this goal a reality requires many changes, including decarbonizing the supply chain. Here’s what to know about decarbonization and how the circular model affects it.  

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What Is Decarbonization in the Supply Chain?

Decarbonization can be divided into two categories: reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and capturing atmospheric pollution. The first requires using renewable energy sources and sustainable practices. GHG is produced when burning fossil fuels, so, decreasing fossil fuel consumption through renewable energy sources will inevitably lower emissions. Capturing emissions, on the other hand, can be done, for example, by planting more trees – since plants capture carbon for photosynthesis – and halting deforestation. 

Decarbonization in the supply chain means companies implement sustainable practices that reduce their carbon footprint and also encourage their suppliers to do the same. Decarbonizing efforts concern the company, its suppliers, and even consumers. 

Companies can drastically reduce their emissions by relying on renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower. Indeed, renewables, such as wind power used in microgrids, can lower electricity costs by 21%-30%.  

Companies can further achieve these goals by incorporating a sustainable manufacturing process. This process examines sustainable ways to reduce company waste, adopt a circular model, and lower carbon emissions. A sustainable manufacturing process also reduces power consumption through green software engineering, an engineering branch that focuses on designing software to have a minimal environmental impact.  

The 3 Different Types of Emission Scopes

Companies producing greenhouse gas emissions fall under three different scopes, with the third one most challenging to track and reduce. 

• Scope one: This scope involves direct emissions produced through the company’s procedures, such as fuel used by machinery and vehicles.
• Scope two: Scope two includes indirect emissions from products obtained from another business, such as those caused by generating fuel or electricity. They are not generated at the company itself but result from scope one emissions from a partner organization.  
• Scope three: Scope three emissions include everything not mentioned elsewhere. They are produced by suppliers, transport, and people using the organization’s products.

While scope three emissions are typically the most significant – accounting for as much as 87% of output – they remain the most complex and challenging to address. Active monitoring and a shift to sustainable practices in manufacturing are key to reduce this type of emissions. In addition, employees should also be encouraged to use sustainable transport options, such as public transport or carpooling. Companies should also incorporate recycling and use the circular economy model.

What Is the Circular Economy Model?

The circular economy model is where materials are recycled, circular end-of-life programs are implemented, and items are reused to manufacture new products. A circular end-of-life program is usually offered after products have reached the end of their life cycles and are returned to the company for manufacturing.

The main goal of the circular economy model is to reduce waste by extending products’ life cycles. Traditionally, the approach companies relied upon was to manufacture items at a reduced cost for consumers, inevitably sacrificing the lifespan. This model creates waste, whereas the circular economy emphasises the recycling and reusing of products.

How Circular Models Further Supply Chain Decarbonization

Waste disposal is usually an expensive process. In this process, fossil fuels are burned, contributing to greenhouse gas production. Therefore, companies should look at the circular model and lean manufacturing principles to reduce the amount of waste generated. 

The circular economy model focuses on recycling and reusing old materials to eventually reduce the organization’s overall waste. Many products companies manufacture are not biodegradable, so they rust, fall apart, and release harmful chemicals into the environment. Circular end-of-life programs ensure they are returned and do not end up in landfills. 

Companies can then either dispose of the product properly – which can still produce GHG emissions – or reuse the materials to manufacture new items. 

A Combined Effort Is Required

Carbon emissions are one of the largest contributors to climate change and are a problem that concerns all living beings. The damage could become irreversible unless the rate of carbon emissions is drastically reduced within the next few years. 

The suggested circular model can be implemented in almost every aspect of the supply chain, from manufacturing to consumer use. Using this model reduces the effect of carbon emissions and drastically decreases company waste.  

A combined effort with a holistic approach is needed to increase decarbonization. The organization as well as its employees and suppliers should work together to actively reduce scope three emissions. Uniting and implementing green solutions can build a sustainable and thriving company.

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The post The Impact of Vendors in Decarbonizing the Supply Chain and Promoting Circular Models appeared first on Earth.Org.

The world needs positive climate action from tech corporations. If you need April 22 as a concrete motivator to start making greener changes, the best time to start planning is now. Here are 6 ways in which tech companies can celebrate Earth Day and switch to more sustainable practices.

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These are some of the most impactful ways for tech companies to celebrate Earth Day and mitigate their environmental impact. It is sure to provide benefits for companies’ bottom lines and employee morale, alongside improving the health of out planet.

1. Intentional Carbon Offsetting

Every tech company has a carbon footprint. Driving for commutes, shipping phones, and booting up PCs all contribute to the endless pounds of greenhouse gases wearing down the atmosphere. Instead, you can invest in carbon offsetting programmes. When carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, its climate impact can be cancelled out by absorbing equal amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. Companies can compensate for the climate impact of their greenhouse gas emissions by supporting projects that reduce or store carbon emissions. This also allows your business to reflect on carbon usage and take responsibility.

There are hundreds of ways to offset carbon, one of the most popular being tree planting. Consider alternative options more aligned with a tech company’s specialty, such as funding emerging carbon-capture technologies or reducing emissions from e-waste.

You might also like: Is Carbon Offset a Form of Greenwashing?

2. Mindful Parts Sourcing

Every tech company is solely responsible for sourcing every part of its products. Earth Day is perfect for evaluating suppliers and seeing where greener options are available. Apple is taking charge of this and finding recycled metals to replace everything from circuit boards to remotes. Focusing on reusing materials instead of encouraging raw material mining is one of the most remarkable ways to make a greener tech sector.

3. Careful Energy Use

Tech companies use copious amounts of energy. Therefore, if you can invest in cleaner renewables, there is more to gain than just a good conscience. Any renewable energy source – like wind power or solar – could help cut utility bills, freeing company budgets to meet staffing needs or invest in more eco-conscious initiatives. Start researching corporate options for renewable energy for Earth Day because it might be the most financially intelligent investment you’ll make all year.

4. Noteworthy Remote Work Opportunities

Celebrating Earth Day represents progress, changing to keep up with a developing world. Some tech companies may need to catch up because of antiquated technology or clunky business models. One of the best ways to free time and resources is by offering employees remote work options, which forces tech companies to digitise and adapt to more eco-friendly and streamlined operations.

Remote work is more than just reducing fossil fuel use from commutes. It also means moving to greener digital storage solutions like the cloud instead of using old, energy-intensive internal hardware. Moreover, resource expenditure for office buildings decreases drastically. Moving to remote work makes companies evaluate the options they have. When they do this, they recognise every outdated item could upgrade to a more eco- and energy-friendly alternative.

5. Practical Electronics Recycling

E-waste is one of the most prominent waste surpluses on the planet. You can begin researching options today to take swift action on this global issue. Here are a few options tech enterprises can consider:

• Install an internal electronics recycling programme, with potential incentives for employees who contribute.
• Reach out to others in the supply chain to encourage implementing electronics recycling programs.
• Take steps to curb business-generated e-waste by finding recycling providers.
• Support nonprofits – financially or with volunteers – to perform e-waste cleanups in affected communities.
• Spread awareness about e-waste education.

Electronic waste sits in landfills and underprivileged communities, adding to global emissions and leaking toxins into the soil and waterways. You can take a stand this Earth Day to minimise these effects.

You might also like: ​​What is E-Waste Recycling and How Is it Done?

6. Influential Goal Setting

Maybe your company does not have the resources to buy solar panels or travel the world to take care of e-waste. Brainstorming goals for the year inspired by Earth Day is just as significant.

There are myriad objectives to work towards, and you can commit to as few or as many as the organization can handle. Focusing on a few eco-conscious goals well is more valuable than spreading resources too thin. 

Here are some ideas of environmental goals tech companies can work on:

• Minimise office supply and paper waste.
• Switch out all tech – printers, PCs, tablets, or phones – to eco-friendly options.
• Monitor energy use metrics and set a percentage to reduce it.
• Choose sustainable packaging.
• Seek third-party environmental certifications.
• Invite environmental consultants to advise the company.
• Create an environmental management team.

Be as creative as you can with your resources. No effort is too small. If you need models to work from, corporate social responsibility and environmental, social, and governance approaches are practical frameworks to cite for inspiration.

Celebrate Earth Day With Purpose

Whether it’s recycling a pound of electronics or installing solar panels, every effort to celebrate Earth Day will matter for tech companies. Each step is valuable and sets a precedent for the industry. Each tech company that makes a promise this Earth Day puts the planet one step closer to a sustainable future that equally supports nature and humans.

You might also like: The World’s 50 Most Sustainable Companies in 2023

The post 6 Ways the Tech Industry Can Celebrate Earth Day appeared first on Earth.Org.

More energy companies than ever are investing in new technologies and techniques to fight climate change and source energy responsibly. These sustainable energy companies are blazing new trails and leading by example.

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Many energy companies have recognised the necessity of, and increased demand for, sustainable energy. By transitioning to greener technologies in solar, wind, biofuel, geothermal, and hydroelectric, the following four energy companies have successfully started leading society toward energy independence.

4 Most Sustainable Energy Companies

1. Element Solar

Element Solar installs residential, commercial and utility solar panels. Offering a personalised experience using AI technology, customers can decide where they send their power while reducing costs from their electric utility bills.

Although AI technology in solar panel systems is not operable at night, daytime sun absorption and solar batteries can provide enough energy to power a household until morning.

This type of solar technology has started to become far more commonplace in recent years. For example, the US has seen an impressive uptick in solar panel installations, with over US$25 billion in private industry investments in 2020 alone. The increased interest in solar power has reduced the costs of installing solar panels by 70% over the past 10 years.

In addition to offering a fully customised solar experience, Element Solar is paving the way for solutions-based renewable energy research and sustainable education with their parent corporation, Element Renewables Group (ERG).

ERG is broken down into three different subsidiaries with individual sustainability missions:

• Biomass Group: Located in Southeast Asia, the Biomass Group aims to restore forests, replace fossil fuels with certified biomass and support the local economy.
• Energy and Water Group: In Southeast Asia, the Energy and Water Group provides clean energy solutions and water systems to rural areas to support quality of life.
• Solar Group: Located in North America, the Solar Group (Element Solar) improves the carbon footprint in residential and commercial structures by providing advanced solar solutions.

What’s more, Element Solar donates 250 watts of clean energy for every solar panel system installed in developing countries. Other projects include mass tree planting of over 30,000 hectares and building a hybrid renewable energy system to provide power to 570 homes in the Philippines.

2. Ørsted

Based in Denmark, Ørsted has been named the world’s most sustainable energy company for three consecutive years. Ørsted’s investments in offshore wind farms and bioenergy and thermal heat power plants have made it the largest renewable energy development company with a target of going carbon neutral by 2025.

To reach its goal of carbon neutrality, Ørsted intends to implement the following strategies:

• End the use of coal at all power stations by 2023 and begin to move away from their oil and gas business operations.

• Use their offshore wind farms to convert power stations to certified biomass.
• Install an offshore wind capacity of 11-12 gigawatts by 2025, or enough wind power for 30 million households’ annual energy consumption.

After nearly three decades in the business, Ørsted has earned its top ranking as a renewable energy trailblazer while helping to transform the energy market and spark interest in large-scale green technologies.

In 2021, Ørsted installed its 1,000th offshore wind turbine in the United Kingdom. The company has also helped reduce the costs of wind turbines by 63% in Europe since 2012.

Even though wind power is growing in popularity as a renewable energy source, lower-than-average wind speeds, cost inflation and supply chain issues have caused widespread problems for companies that produce wind turbine technologies.

You might also like: Top 8 Sustainable Tech Companies in the World Right Now

3. Iberdrola

Headquartered in Bilbao, Spain, Iberdrola’s combined energy generation makes it one of the world’s largest electric utility companies and suppliers of wind power.

The company is involved in the manufacturing, distribution, trading and marketing of electricity and operates out of Spain, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Brazil. Currently, Iberdrola delivers electricity and natural gas to over 2 million customers in New York and Maine.

In the Renewable Energy Companies and Human Rights report published by the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre (BHRRC) in 2021, Iberdrola scored above its energy competitors in identifying and preventing impacts on human rights.

More recently, Iberdrola expanded its solar energy portfolio by signing onto 17 solar projects — equivalent to 800 megawatts of capacity — in the United Kingdom. By 2025, the project aims to power 220,000 households, enabling Iberdrola to achieve its carbon neutrality goals in Europe by 2030.

4. NextEra Energy, Inc.

NextEra Energy is a US-based utility company and the largest wind and solar power supplier. Although still a producer of oil, natural gas and nuclear power plants, it has helped reduce US reliance on foreign oil by 98% since 2001.

NextEra Energy subsidiaries include Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), Gulf Power Company and NextEra Energy Resources, LLC.

In its 2021 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report, the company highlighted the following sustainability and renewable energy initiatives:

• Reduce its emissions by 67% by 2025, to the same levels as 2005.
• Generate an expected hundreds of millions of dollars and reduce millions of tons of CO2 emissions after shutting down all coal-fuelled power plants in Florida.
• Deliver low-cost wind and solar power to customers.
• Focus on renewable energy projects, such as producing 100 gigawatts per year through 2050.
• Decarbonise parts of the economy with green hydrogen while creating $1.7 trillion investment opportunities in green technology.
• Establish wildlife programs aimed at preserving and protecting biodiversity, including specialised avian and crocodile conservation programmes and the Everglades Mitigation Bank.

Building a Sustainable Future

As global drivers in creating more significant renewable energy, these four sustainable energy corporations have laid the blueprint for other companies to follow suit in 2022. Some of the strategies include:

• Integrate advanced technologies that allow for easier monitoring and management of energy flow and improve efficiency in billing processes.

• Invest in renewable energy like solar and wind to reduce consumer costs and boost market demands. In the next two years, increased wind and solar projects are expected to decrease costs by 27% and 74%, respectively.
• Promote a sustainable supply chain by sourcing green materials, cutting operational emissions within their own companies, developing a long-term sustainable production process and utilising energy-efficient equipment.

Renewable Energy Is Good for Business

Energy companies are working hard to stay ahead of emissions-reducing regulations, find sustainable solutions for energy resilience and improve the environment. With more sustainable energy projects on the horizon, reduced costs will lead to even more investment opportunities and a brighter tomorrow for the energy sector.

You might also like: 10 Leading Sustainable Food Companies to Support in 2023

The post 4 Sustainable Energy Companies and the Secrets Behind Their Success appeared first on Earth.Org.

People working in medical settings who wish to be more sustainable face some limitations. Certain items such as gloves must be single-use for safety. However, modern technology makes it easier to make sustainable changes in these healthcare environments. Here are some actionable examples of how we can improve sustainability in medical centres and doctors’ offices.

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How to Improve Sustainability in Doctors’ Offices and Hospitals

1. Use Smart Lighting and Thermostats

Doctors’ offices can waste energy when people leave lights on in unoccupied rooms or the heating turns too high before the practice opens. A good starting point is to start a staff education programme that explains how seemingly simple decisions can make energy bills unnecessarily high. Statistics suggest a successful energy-related awareness campaign could result in a 5% improvement in the office’s overall electricity consumption.

After teaching employees how small changes can make a big difference, doctors’ offices should consider investing in smart lights and thermostats. Employees can usually override those tech products, but they will be less likely to do so once they grasp the significance of energy-saving adjustments.

Consider setting the lights on a timer or using motion sensors to avoid excessive usage. A related change is to install energy-efficient bulbs. They will help keep energy bills low.

Select at least one staff member in the office to oversee the smart thermostat after installation. Explain to them how it works, including the steps for making changes through the accompanying app.

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2. Offer Digital Communications

Many of today’s families prefer online communications to paper-based ones. Whether a pediatrician’s office needs to send an appointment reminder or provide details about a new medication, such communications are often best handled through digital channels.

Then, the office saves on things like paper, printer ink, and pens. However, the office staff must remain mindful that not everyone likes to get communications through email and text messages. A good compromise is to add signage explaining that people are at a digital-first doctor’s office. That means they will get communications digitally by default but can receive physical versions by indicating a preference for them.

It is also useful to include an easily understood identifier, such as the office’s branding, in the emails and text messages distributed. That way, people will know they have received legitimate communications. Another tip is to use standardised language and formatting to encourage people to open the messages promptly rather than overlooking or ignoring them.

3. Encourage Doctors to Use e-Books and Journals

Most doctors’ offices have bookshelves containing drug reference manuals, diagnostic guides, and other books that help guide their patient care choices. Physicians must also be excellent storytellers to explain things to patients.

One sustainable option made possible by technology is to urge doctors to switch to electronic versions of books and journals when possible. That does not mean they must throw away all the physical books they own. That is not sustainable anyway, assuming they are still regularly using those titles.

However, they should consider looking for electronic versions rather than getting new books and subscribing to additional medical journals received through the mail. Understandably, some doctors prefer books they can hold in their hands and are unwilling to switch. In such cases, they can still make more sustainable choices by looking for secondhand versions of the titles they need or reading the journals at medical libraries instead of subscribing to them.

4. Migrate the Doctor’s Office to the Cloud

Cloud computing offers numerous benefits for a medical practice. They include better security, improved collaboration, and increased storage capacity, to name a few. Statistics also show organisations can achieve an 85% reduction in emissions and a 65% decrease in energy usage by switching to the cloud from an on-premises setup. The total cut in emissions can rise as high as 90% if organisations configure their apps to run in the cloud, too.

Moving to the cloud is a major undertaking, but it usually pays off for those who make that decision. Since most people in health care do not have extensive backgrounds in cloud computing, the practical approach is often to hire a service provider that can assess what the medical practice needs and the best ways to achieve those changes.

It is also important to remind staff members that a transition to the cloud need not happen all at once. Many organisations do it gradually, accelerating the changes as their budgets and available time allow. Setting aside ample time to get everyone used to working in the cloud is essential for helping people have a smooth transition.

Similarly, it is useful to choose a cloud provider that offers 24/7 technical support. Experiencing issues during or after the migration can be particularly problematic in fast-paced environments, such as medical offices. However, having an experienced person or team guide the organisation through the switch should lead to better results overall.

Technology Can Improve Sustainability in Doctor’s Offices

These examples show how doctors’ offices can use technology to stay relevant and improve their sustainability. Pursuing even one of them could result in significant short- and long-term gains that help people at medical organisations do what they can to support the planet’s future.

You might also like: How to Lower Your Carbon Footprint Through An Eco-Friendly Home Audit

The post 4 Ways to Improve Sustainability in Medical Settings With Modern Technology appeared first on Earth.Org.

The world is dealing with a major plastic pollution crisis. The recent discovery of a plastic-eating enzyme at UT Austin could be a much-needed game changer to address it.

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Research suggests that the world is generating twice as much plastic as it did two decades ago, with the majority of it either getting incinerated or ending up in landfills or dispersed in the environment, especially in oceans.

According to the Global Plastics Outlook report published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), only 9% of plastic is successfully recycled while 22% of plastic is mismanaged. 

Because plastic is not naturally biodegradable, teams of researchers and scientists are always devoting time and resources to finding new innovative ways to address the growing problem of global plastic pollution.

Researchers at the University of Texas (UT) at Austin used a new machine learning (ML) algorithm to create a new variant of enzymes that could potentially degrade plastic. 

Understanding the Global Plastic Waste Crisis

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that around 7 billion tons of plastic produced between 1950 and 2017 became plastic waste that was either dumped or ended up in landfills. Plastic waste can negatively impact the environment and its natural processes, contribute to climate change, and affect millions of people’s livelihoods and the world’s food production capabilities. Chlorinated plastic can spread harmful chemicals if not properly disposed of or degraded, harming the surrounding soil, groundwater, and ecosystems.

Increased amounts of plastic pollution can also impact the health and well-being of humans. Researchers believe that children are exposed to microplastics and their smaller counterparts – called nanoplastics – more often than adults. The latter can also face adverse health effects due to microplastics, including DNA damage and inflammation. If inflammation becomes chronic, adults might need medical intervention to receive proper care.

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It is well known that plastic can also harm the environment and the vulnerable animal populations living in affected areas. With the growing amount of plastic polluting natural lands and waterways across the world, it is crucial to adopt new technologies and develop alternative packaging to solve the root causes of pollution.

Researchers Develop a Novel Plastic-Eating Enzyme

Hal Alper is a lead researcher of the engineering biology team in the McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering at UT at Austin. He is also a professor and fellow of the Les and Sherri Stuewer Professorship in Chemical Engineering at UT.

Alper and his team of engineers and scientists created a variant of an enzyme called hydrolase using an ML algorithm. The enzyme is capable of breaking down PET (polyethylene terephthalate), one of the most common plastics used today, into its component molecules.

The PET polymer is found most often in consumer packaged products, such as soda, salad, and fruit containers, as well as disposable food trays. According to a review in the National Library of Medicine, in 2021, PET packaging accounted for:

• 12% of global solid waste
• 44.7% of single-serve beverage packaging in the United States

Once PET plastic waste breaks down, however, it can be reused to create entirely new PET materials, essentially leading to a circular plastics economy. In the past, attempts in enzymatic degradation were unsuccessful, mainly due to a lack of robustness to acidity (pH), temperature ranges, and slow reaction rates.

During the project, Alper and the team at UT Austin found that the novel plastic-eating enzyme, referred to as FAST-PETase (functional, active, stable, and tolerant PETase), can break down plastics at a much faster rate than other PET hydrolases used in prior studies. It is also capable of degrading both mixed-colour and clear PET plastic products.

Untreated, post-consumer PET from 51 different products was almost completely degraded by the new FAST-PETase enzyme in only one week. At 50C, the team reported that portions of an entire thermally pretreated water bottle and a commercial water bottle could also be broken down.

The Potential Benefits of the Plastic-Eating Enzyme

Because this new enzyme can break down plastics so quickly and on a large scale, it will have virtually limitless potential to assist many industries in their waste reduction efforts.

For many environmental cleanup activities, controlling the outdoor temperature is a major challenge. The plastic-eating enzyme is sensitive to changes in temperature, rendering enzymatic degradation ineffective.

Since the FAST-PETase enzyme degrades plastic and handles variations in temperature simultaneously, it would be effective in non-laboratory conditions. This new discovery could be a major advantage to environmental organisations and other agencies focused on cleaning up the environment.

With enough quantity, the enzyme can clean up landfills, waste plants, and other sites negatively affected by plastic pollution. The plastic-eating enzyme is affordable, portable, and can be applied extensively. The role of ML in this research is critical. Without the model developed by UT’s researchers, the new enzyme discovery might not have been possible.

Harnessing the Power of AI to Solve Environmental Issues

The team at the University of Texas submitted a patent to explore the potential applications for this new technology. The goal is to scale up manufacturing of the FAST-PETase enzyme so it can be used in practical ways within the environmental and industrial sectors. It will be interesting to see the potential impacts of this discovery and whether it will help address the issue of plastic pollution.

Featured Image by CDC on Unsplash

You might also like: 8 Shocking Plastic Pollution Statistics to Know About

The post AI-Engineered Plastic-Eating Enzyme Could Be the Solution to Plastic Pollution appeared first on Earth.Org.