In Brazil, the deconstruction of cellulose is essential for the conversion of biomass into fuels and chemicals. But cellulose, the most abundant renewable polymer on the planet, is extremely recalcitrant to biological depolymerization. Although composed entirely of glucose units, its crystalline microfibrillar structure and association with lignin and hemicelluloses in plant cell walls make it […]
In Brazil, a group of researchers affiliated with the Center for Innovation in New Energies (CINE) has developed a method for purifying materials that is simple, economical and has a low environmental impact. The scientists have managed to improve the efficiency of a film that can be used in some green hydrogen production processes. Known […]
In Tennessee, a team of scientists from two Department of Energy Bioenergy Research Centers identified a gene in poplar trees that enhances photosynthesis and can boost the height of trees by about 30% in the field and as much as 200% in a greenhouse. The gene, named BOOSTER, is a chimeric gene—one formed by the […]
In Washington state, scientists at Washington State University (WSU) and partner institutions have developed a new, cost-effective method to produce sugar from corn stover and other crop waste for biofuels and bioproducts. The process uses ammonium sulfite-based alkali salts and potassium hydroxide in a mild temperature pretreatment. This pretreatment efficiently breaks down complex cellulosic biomass […]
In Michigan, through a new partnership with CNH, researchers and students at the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) will have access to the innovative New Holland T6.180 Methane tractor. A rare piece of equipment, usage of this tractor will further solidify CANR’s position as a leader in agricultural innovation. Underscoring a commitment […]
In Japan, starch and oils are known as storehouses of carbon in plants. However, the way in which carbon resources are allocated during metabolism in plants remained unknown. Now, however, using a forward genetics approach, researchers from Chiba University have identified that a gene named LIRI1 regulates this process, significantly increasing oil storage in leaves […]
In Washington state, scientists at Washington State University have found a new way to produce sugar from corn stalks and other crop waste, potentially opening a new pathway to sustainable biofuels. Newly published in Bioresource Technology, their experimental process used ammonium sulfite-based alkali salts to convert corn stover — leftover corn stalks, husks, and other […]
In Brazil, a new lifecycle study published in Sustainability Science and Technology has discovered a promising alternative to plastic sanitary products, potentially leading to far reduced sanitary waste. Sanitary pads made with cornstarch are 17 times more environmentally friendly compared to plastic equivalents. The high concentration of plastic in disposable products is a direct threat […]
In Malaysia, analysis of independent satellite data shows a decrease in the efficiency of palm oil plantations in Malaysia after they received sustainability labels. This could have negative repercussions for the environment. Sustainability certificates are inherently beneficial. The label on the packaging ensures that specific environmental and social standards are upheld during production. Many consumers […]
In Spain, the European-funded CO2SMOS project officially concludes this month after four years of collaborative research and innovation aimed at supporting the bio-based industry in reducing its carbon footprint. With €7 million in funding from the Horizon 2020 program, the project has developed and scaled technologies that convert biogenic CO₂ emissions into valuable chemicals and […]
