research Health of vulnerable people exposed to noise is under-researched By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 15 Jan 2015 9:23:19 GMT Vulnerable groups of people, including those with long-term illnesses, those sensitive to noise or tinnitus (ringing of the ears), people with mental health problems and unborn and newly born babies, are often more susceptible to physical and emotional stresses. As a result, vulnerable groups of people may be more at risk from exposure to environmental noise than healthy adults. However, there is comparatively little research focusing on the adverse health effects of noise on vulnerable people, say scientists reviewing these health impacts. Full Article
research Fracking research needs to consider the bigger picture By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 9 Jan 2014 11:03:19 GMT Studies on fracking too often focus on its technical aspects, and not the wider environmental, economic and regulatory context needed for political decision-making, according to a review of existing research by a US researcher. The review provides a framework for understanding these complex issues that could benefit the fracking debate and decision-making about fracking more widely. Full Article
research Internet tools for research dissemination: a climate-change case study By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Tue, 22 Mar 2016 09:12:34 GMT Modern technologies have provided new ways for communities to engage with climate change. This study investigated the role of Internet-based tools in disseminating the findings of a climate change research project in Canada and provides insights on how best to use the Internet to communicate the outcomes of scientific research. Full Article
research Green buildings: researchers call for fuller environmental assessment By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 15 Dec 2016 9:23:19 GMT Over half of a low-energy building’s environmental impact occurred before it was even occupied, a new case study from Italy calculates. The researchers recommend expanding the environmental assessment of buildings from just the operational stage of a building’s life, when it is in use, to include production and transport of materials, construction activities and building maintenance. A wide range of environmental impacts should also be considered, they argue, and not just energy use. Full Article
research Social research needed before introducing market-based waste policy By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 24 Jun 2010 10:51:52 +0100 A better understanding of the social factors that affect market-based environmental policies could enhance their success, according to researchers. An analysis of reactions to a proposed waste disposal system in Greece indicated that both trust between citizens and trust in institutions could be highly influential in its implementation. Full Article
research Researchers investigate suitability of rocks at Ketzin for storing CO2 By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 16 Sep 2010 11:48:36 +0100 In 2008, the injection of CO2 started at Ketzin in Germany, Europe’s first onshore carbon storage site. A recently published paper has reported on the findings of experiments conducted on the rocks at Ketzin, which contributed important information about their safety and feasibility for storing CO2. No significant changes to the rocks were observed 15 months after they had been injected with CO2. Full Article
research Involving communities in contaminated land decisions: researchers recommend guidelines By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Wed, 7 Nov 2012 14:54:36 GMT A new approach giving practical guidance for engaging communities in assessing and managing risks associated with re-development of contaminated land could help to smooth local decision making processes. It recommends a set of principles that risk managers and policymakers can use to shape their community engagement activities. Full Article
research Monitoring Nature: Research Developments - June 2015 By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 11 June 2015 9:23:19 GMT This Thematic Issue provides a flavour of recent work by scientists in the area of biodiversity monitoring to highlight both up-to-date approaches to conservation and evaluation, and how long-term monitoring data could be used more effectively in management and policy decisions. Full Article
research Which new low-carbon technologies can be developed and commercialised quickly? New research offers analysis By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 04 May 2017 9:23:19 GMT A new study provides clues as to which innovative low-carbon technologies will successfully get onto the market quickly. The historical analysis of 16 energy technologies — from steam engines to wind power — found that the average length of a product’s ‘formative phase’ is 22 years. This important period of innovation in a technology’s development is shorter for products which do not need extensive new infrastructure or changes to user behaviour. The findings could help policymakers identify new technologies that can be deployed more rapidly to meet short-term environmental targets. Full Article
research Is divorce seasonal? UW research shows biannual spike in divorce filings By esciencenews.com Published On :: Mon, 22 Aug 2016 14:14:40 +0000 To everything there is a season -- even divorce, new research from University of Washington sociologists concludes. read more Full Article Psychology & Sociology
research Link between weather and chronic pain is emerging through innovative smartphone research By esciencenews.com Published On :: Wed, 07 Sep 2016 19:42:34 +0000 Preliminary findings from a mass participation study have indicated a link between weather conditions - specifically rain and lack of sunshine - and chronic pain. read more Full Article Psychology & Sociology
research UBC research could help local governments plan together By esciencenews.com Published On :: Fri, 09 Sep 2016 19:37:55 +0000 A new approach to modelling land use change developed at UBC could help cities and towns better coordinate their land-use planning efforts. read more Full Article Psychology & Sociology
research What makes railway noise annoying? Research investigates By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 29 Nov 2012 13:11:06 GMT A new study into the impact of railway noise has revealed that it is not just the level of noise that contributes to annoyance for local residents, but also the number of trains and the vibrations they cause. As railway transport is likely to increase in coming years, plans are needed to reduce these effects. Full Article
research Research provides insight into the impacts of droughts in dry Alpine forests By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:59:07 +0100 The impacts of drought on European trees are of high concern, especially under a changing climate. New research has indicated that, if summers become continually drier, sensitive species, such as larch and spruce, will suffer reduced growth in some Alpine areas. This could potentially compromise ecosystem services provided by forests in these areas. Full Article
research Translating research into action with 'pyramid of knowledge' By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 18 Nov 2010 11:16:12 GMT Outputs of conservation planning research are likely to be translated into action more quickly and successfully if a transdisciplinary approach is adopted, according to a recent study. The researchers have applied a transdisciplinary framework 'pyramid of knowledge' to aid in understanding the process of converting research into action, which may also be applicable to other academic disciplines. Full Article
research Changing research assessments could encourage knowledge dissemination By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Tue, 22 Mar 2016 09:12:34 GMT Research assessments should focus more on engagement processes and less on impacts and outcomes, a new study suggests. The authors examined researchers’ intended impacts and motivational factors, and stated that a change in research evaluation methods, together with better direction from university managers, could help incentivise knowledge exchange and engagement between departments and non-academic entities. Full Article
research Balancing research, policy and practice could help agriculture meet Sustainable Development Goals By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 08 August 2019 11:23:19 GMT A study into how agriculture can help humanity meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals finds that research in Europe on agricultural land systems largely omits key priorities from policy and practice. The researchers identify 32 variables that researchers, policymakers and practitioners collectively prioritise when it comes to European agricultural systems, and suggest that future research includes these in order to more comprehensively analyse trade-offs and identify opportunities for sustainable progress. Full Article
research More research needed into contaminated soil and water treatment By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:31:31 +0100 A new review from Romanian researchers has summarised current and emerging methods for cleaning up contaminated land and water. It highlights the need for more consistent testing, reporting and evaluation of different remediation techniques. Full Article
research Researchers call for joint carbon and water cap-and-trade market By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 7 Jun 2012 16:59:48 +0100 A joint water and carbon cap-and-trade system could lead to a more sustainable future, a recent study suggests. Such a system could account for the important links between energy, water and climate change, while at the same time, ensuring economic growth. Full Article
research Research into root systems: key for long-term crop management By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Tues, 10 Nov 2015 9:23:19 GMT Water scarcity is an important cause of low crop yields worldwide. Yields could be significantly improved by focusing attention on unproductive water losses and improving retention of plant-available water in soils, and particularly the largely unexplored interactions between soils and roots. A new review of scientific literature sets out key soil management measures for crops under drought conditions. Full Article
research Drought management in Europe: researchers present new evaluation method By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 21 Jul 2016 09:12:34 GMT Droughts can have far-reaching environmental, social and economic impacts. A new study has assessed how drought is managed in six areas of Europe using a new evaluation framework. Their evaluation identified policy gaps and makes recommendations for risk management. A key recommendation is to evaluate responses and management after each drought to identify good practices and strengthen drought management in the future. Full Article
research Researchers develop AI-based system to detect Twitter bots By cio.economictimes.indiatimes.com Published On :: 2020-04-23T11:40:16+05:30 Researchers have developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based system to detect Twitter bots after identifying differences in their short-term behaviour from humans on the social media platform. Full Article
research More long-term ecosystem research needed in parts of Europe By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 3 Jun 2010 11:54:56 +0100 Europe needs long-term ecosystem research (LTER) to support environmental management and fulfil its commitments to international policy. A new study has assessed the distribution of European LTER activities and indicated that urban and disturbed areas are consistently under-represented, as are Mediterranean zones. Full Article
research The importance of conserving biodiversity for biomedical research By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:14:50 GMT Preserving species and the ecosystems in which they live is highly important to the progress of biomedical research. This is the conclusion made by researchers in an analysis of biodiversity's significance, which highlights the role of animals and microbes in improving our understanding of genetics, the regeneration of tissues and organs, and immunity. Full Article
research Research stations in Antarctica could be affecting magnetic fields By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 29 Nov 2012 13:05:31 GMT A new aerial survey is the first to assess the possible impact of a research station in Antarctica on magnetic fields. Estimations indicated that the station generated a magnetic field that extends up to 650 metres from the station with a peak strength of 2800 nanotesla (nT) within 100 metres from the station on the ground. This may have implications for organisms in Antarctica that are negatively affected by magnetic fields but further research is needed to investigate this. Full Article
research Research for environmental policymaking: how to prioritise, communicate and measure impact - March 2016 By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Tue, 22 Mar 2016 09:12:34 GMT Up-to date scientific and technological research is vital to allow humans to adapt appropriately to our changing global environment, and current rates of environmental degradation and resource depletion. Effective research policies are essential to maintain or improve the standard of life for future populations – in Europe and globally. Full Article
research What is ‘favourable conservation status’ for species? Researchers clear up misinterpretations By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 02 Jun 2016 09:01:15 GMT ‘Favourable conservation status’ (FCS) is a critical but often misinterpreted legal concept in the EU’s Habitats Directive. Now, law and ecology researchers have teamed up to help clarify some of the most disputed aspects of this term for species. Correctly applied, the concept will help environmental managers, policymakers and scientists effectively protect biodiversity. Full Article
research Natura 2000 conservation: how can social-science research enhance conservation outcomes? By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 18 Aug 2016 10:12:34 +0100 Governance of biodiversity is closely linked to social and economic processes and human behaviour, appreciation of which can enhance conservation outcomes. This study reviewed findings on the social aspects of Natura 2000, identifying research gaps and recommendations for improving the network’s implementation across the EU. The researchers say limited stakeholder participation, negative perceptions of the network and a lack of consideration of the local context hinder the network’s effectiveness. They recommend increasing public awareness and compensating private landowners. Full Article
research More research needed on endocrine disrupters By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 19 Jul 2012 15:10:48 +0100 There has been an established increase in reproductive disorders and other hormonal diseases, according to a recent European Environment Agency (EEA) report. The report documents a growing body of research that indicates this increase is influenced by growing levels of chemical pollutants in the environment known as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Full Article
research Potentially toxic elements in European soils mapped by researchers By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 13 July 2017 9:23:19 GMT A new study has mapped levels of chemical elements found in European agricultural soils. In most places, unusually high concentrations are linked to geology, such as high levels of arsenic in the Massif Central in France. Human activity is to blame in some small areas, for example high concentrations of mercury were found near London and Paris. Abnormal concentrations, both too low and too high, could pose an environmental risk. This new data can be used in conjunction with the REACH Regulation1 and can help identify areas where action may be needed in relation to toxic elements in the environment. Full Article
research Bridging the gap between academic research and regulatory assessment of chemicals: a how-to guide By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 22 May 2018 9:23:19 GMT According to most EU legislation, regulatory assessment of chemicals should make use of all available and relevant studies. However, in practice, assessments tend to be predominantly based on research sponsored and provided by industry as part of their legal obligations to show safety of their products, rather than on independent peer-reviewed findings. To bridge this science–policy gap, a team of Swedish researchers, in combination with regulators at three Swedish governmental agencies, have published a list of recommendations aimed at increasing the regulatory usability and impact of academic research. This advice is aimed at researchers, for whom it clarifies relevant regulatory data requirements and quality criteria. However, it is also relevant to policymakers, in that it highlights the advantages and availability of relevant, reliable peer-reviewed research for use in the regulatory assessment of chemicals. The study’s recommendations contribute to the formulation of more science-based, sustainable policies. Full Article
research How can risks from nanotechnology be managed? Researchers recommend global framework By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 27 September 2018 9:23:19 GMT Currently laws and regulations governing nanotechnology are fragmented and do not take account of the unique properties of nanomaterials, the effect of which on humans and the environment are not yet fully understood, argue researchers in a new study. In the study, a network of European researchers propose a new universal regulatory framework that deals specifically with nanomaterials. The framework should help policymakers, organisations and researchers evaluate the risks of any existing materials and new nanomaterials entering the market. It should also help SMEs and large companies use safer products and processes, limit the potential adverse effects of nanomaterials on workers and consumers, reduce the cost of insurance and reduce the risk of governments having to pay out money in the future due to unforeseen accidents or diseases. Full Article
research New research suggests that alternatives to legacy PFASs may be no safer By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 22 Nov 2018 11:23:19 GMT PFASs — per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — are a family of chemicals used in a wide range of industrial and consumer applications. Due to concerns about their persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity, long-chain PFASs are increasingly being phased out, creating a growing market for alternatives. Researchers have developed a novel method, based on molecular simulation techniques, to estimate the rate at which novel PFASs interact and bind with particular proteins (‘binding affinity’) — an important factor in determining a substance’s bioaccumulation potential in organisms. The method indicates that replacement PFASs may be just as bioaccumulative as original (legacy) PFASs and are, therefore, not necessarily safer. If correct, this finding has significant policy implications. Full Article
research Innovative batteries struggle to move from research to application, finds study into start-up companies By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thur, 10 May 2019 11:23:19 GMT Innovatively designed batteries offer a way for vehicles to move away from their dependence on fossil fuels. There has been little mass-market uptake of new battery design, however. In the last century, only four types of battery have been used: manganese oxide; lead acid; nickel; and lithium ion, which is a relative newcomer, introduced in 1991. To understand how innovation moves from research and development (R&D) to application and the mass market, scientists perform technology lifecycle (TLC) analyses, often focusing on R&D and basic research. This study adds an additional indicator — start-up companies — to explore the early phases of how batteries transition from science into industry. Full Article
research New compilation of research on indoor industrial air pollutants By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 13:01:58 GMT A recent analysis of indoor industrial air pollutants could be useful for implementing REACH (Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals). Implementation of REACH should be based on sound analytical methods and targeting of priority chemicals, according to the researchers. Full Article
research Research finds link between road proximity and childhood leukaemia By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:23:02 +0100 Living near busy roads is associated with an increased risk of childhood leukaemia, according to French researchers. The study found that children living within 500 metres of major roads were more likely to develop leukaemia than those who lived far from such roads. It is possible that high levels of traffic pollution from the roads are responsible for the higher rates of the illness. Full Article
research Researchers assess indoor air pollution across Europe By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:59:51 +0100 The quality of indoor air varies widely across Europe, according to a recent study. However, more data are needed from a range of locations, especially in towns and cities, and greater harmonisation of sampling and analysis procedures are needed to develop a more comprehensive picture of European indoor air quality. Full Article
research Researchers assess indoor air pollution across Europe By ec.europa.eu Published On :: Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:57:27 +0100 The quality of indoor air varies widely across Europe, according to a recent study. Poor indoor air quality is mainly due to household products, outdoor pollution and smoking yielding high levels of organic pollutants harmful to human health. The study indicates higher levels of indoor air pollution in southern Europe than in northern Europe, and with an associated risk of cancer higher than the acceptable unit risk. However the present data must be improved in order to get more precise risk estimates Full Article
research Home Buyers Spend More Time Researching a Car Purchase than Their Home Loan By zillow.mediaroom.com Published On :: Wed, 04 May 2016 08:00:00 -0400 More than half of borrowers spend five hours or less shopping for home financing options, according to Zillow survey Full Article
research Shrinking returns on research sparks South Australian inquiries By theleadsouthaustralia.com.au Published On :: Fri, 13 Mar 2020 03:57:24 +0000 The post Shrinking returns on research sparks South Australian inquiries appeared first on The Lead SA. Full Article Education Health & Medical Innovation Research & Development
research NTU Singapore researchers build disinfection robot to aid cleaners in COVID-19 outbreak By news.ntu.edu.sg Published On :: Mon, 13 Apr 2020 16:00:00 GMT ... Full Article All
research NTU researchers build disinfection robot to aid cleaners in COVID-19 outbreak By news.ntu.edu.sg Published On :: Wed, 15 Apr 2020 02:00:00 GMT Researchers from NTU Singapore have developed a semi-autonomous robot that can disinfect large surfaces quickly. Named eXtreme Disinfection roBOT (XDBOT), it can be wirelessly controlled via a laptop or tablet, removing the need for cleaners to be in contact with surfaces, thereby reducing the risk of picking up the virus from potentially contaminated areas.... Full Article All
research Researchers discover 4 new walking sharks By www.mnn.com Published On :: Thu, 23 Jan 2020 13:21:47 +0000 Researchers discover several new species of sharks that can walk along shallow reefs on their fins. Full Article Animals
research Just because your baby is crying doesn't mean you should feed her, research says By www.mnn.com Published On :: Sat, 24 Jun 2017 15:13:36 +0000 Parents may be teaching babies to use food as a comfort, which leads to obesity later in life, studies show. But as a parent, I'm not buying it. Full Article Babies & Pregnancy
research Butterfly research: Evolution in action By www.nsf.gov Published On :: Thu, 24 Mar 2011 02:39:21 +0000 Video: Observing a split in the butterfly family tree. Full Article Animals
research Researchers predict 359,000 plug-in electric vehicles by 2017 By www.mnn.com Published On :: Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:27:26 +0000 A new forecast from Pike Research says California and New York will be the most popular states for PEV sales. Full Article Transportation
research More researchers join effort to control stink bugs organically By www.mnn.com Published On :: Thu, 08 Nov 2012 18:50:38 +0000 Multi-university project asks how organic farmers can control these pests and protect their crops. Full Article Organic Farming & Gardening
research Japanese researchers find better way to remove radiation from soil By www.mnn.com Published On :: Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:10:56 +0000 Scientists have improved on a method that uses an acidic solution to remove radioactive material from soil. Full Article Research & Innovations
research MIT researchers develop world's most accurate solar potential software for rooftops By www.mnn.com Published On :: Thu, 06 Jun 2013 19:41:56 +0000 The Mapdwell project at MIT combines Google Maps, solar power data and some smart algorithms to calculate the costs and benefits of installing solar panels. Full Article Energy
research Too many nuclear plants located in tsunami risk zones, say researchers By www.mnn.com Published On :: Mon, 24 Sep 2012 13:29:28 +0000 A recent study led by European researchers found Fukushima is not alone, as 22 other plants around the world may be similarly susceptible to destructive tsunami Full Article Wilderness & Resources