Plastics are everywhere, and most of them never biologically degrade. This is a major problem for our environment, as plastic waste pollutes natural ecosystems for centuries. Fortunately, there are microbes that may be able to help us solve this growing problem. Scientists have discovered bacteria, also known as plastivores, that contain enzymes capable of breaking down PET polymers, a common type of plastic. However, we still need ways to biologically degrade all the other types of plastic, including abundant PEs and PPs. Researchers are looking for more heat-tolerant plastivores in the planet's most hostile environments and engineering better plastivorous enzymes in the lab. As students, you have the opportunity to learn about this important issue and contribute to finding solutions. By exploring the science behind plastic degradation, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to protect our environment and create a more sustainable future.

As a society, we rely heavily on oil, but this addiction has led to environmental disasters like oil spills. However, nature has a way of cleaning up after us. Microbes, tiny bacteria that evolved to take advantage of oil and gas seeping from the sea floor, have been eating up oil spills for eons. In fact, a big bloom of microbes ate most of the 4.1 million barrels of oil spilt by BP's Macondo well in the Gulf of Mexico. These microbes are not only oil-eaters, but they also eat plastics, making them a potential solution to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Scientists are working on enhancing microbes' ability to eat oil and plastic, which could help us clean up our messes faster. Learning about these microbes and how they can benefit us is not only intellectually stimulating, but it also has practical implications for our planet's health.

Are you aware that over 2 billion people globally drink water contaminated with disease-causing microbes? Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have developed a low-cost, recyclable powder that can kill thousands of waterborne bacteria per second when exposed to ordinary sunlight. This discovery could be a significant breakthrough for the nearly 30 percent of the world's population without access to safe drinking water. The results of their study are published in Nature Water.

Plastics have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, but few of us know the history behind this versatile material. The first plastic was created in 1863 by an American named John Wesley Hyatt, who invented celluloid, made from cellulose found in wood and straw. This discovery led to a cascade of new plastics, including bakelite, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylics, and nylon. Plastics have replaced other materials like wood, glass, and fabric in furniture, clothing, and packaging. While plastics have brought convenience and cost-effectiveness, they have also created staggering environmental problems. Many plastics are made of nonrenewable resources, and plastic packaging was designed to be single-use, but some plastics take centuries to decompose, creating a huge buildup of waste. By learning about plastics, students can understand how science and innovation have shaped our world, and they can explore ways to address the environmental problems associated with plastic use.

Wildfires can have a lasting impact on the ozone layer, a new MIT study shows. Smoke particles from the Australian "Black Summer" megafire triggered a chemical reaction that depleted ozone by 3-5% at mid-latitudes in the southern hemisphere, with effects reaching as far as Antarctica. The study highlights the need to consider the impact of wildfires on ozone recovery efforts and suggests that as long as ozone-depleting chemicals persist in the atmosphere, large fires could spark a reaction that temporarily depletes ozone.

Do you feel a deep connection with the sea and its inhabitants? Do you find yourself daydreaming about what lies beneath the ocean's surface? If so, a career in oceanography might be perfect for you! As an oceanographer, you'll be studying the ocean, its physical and biological properties, and how it interacts with the planet. You'll work to understand everything from the temperature and salinity of the water, to the movement of currents, the behavior of marine life, and how humans impact the ocean. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in oceanography is the opportunity to work on important environmental issues. For example, you could study how climate change is impacting the ocean and marine life, work to protect endangered species, or research ways to develop sustainable fishing practices. There are also countless fascinating and inspiring examples of real-life oceanographers making a difference. For instance, Sylvia Earle is a marine biologist and explorer who has led more than 100 deep sea expeditions and been instrumental in the creation of marine protected areas. Jacques Cousteau, an oceanographer and explorer, was a pioneer in underwater filmmaking and worked to raise awareness about ocean conservation. As an oceanographer, you'll typically be conducting research and collecting data, analyzing samples in a laboratory setting, and communicating your findings to colleagues, stakeholders, and the public. You could choose to specialize in one of several areas, including biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, physical oceanography, or marine geology. There are also related fields like marine biology, marine ecology, and ocean engineering. To become an oceanographer, you'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as marine biology, oceanography, or environmental science. Many universities offer specialized programs, such as the Marine Science program at the University of Miami or the Oceanography program at the University of Washington. Additionally, internships and field experience can be highly beneficial for gaining practical skills and connections in the field. Helpful personal attributes for an oceanographer include a passion for the ocean and its inhabitants, strong analytical skills, and a willingness to work in a team environment. Additionally, it's important to have good communication skills, as you'll be communicating complex scientific concepts to a variety of audiences. The job prospects for oceanographers are good, with an expected job growth of 7% from 2020 to 2030. There are many potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies like NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and private companies like Shell or ExxonMobil. You could also work for non-profits like the Ocean Conservancy or research institutions like Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

Traditional diamond mining is a billion-dollar industry with significant environmental impact, releasing large amounts of carbon emissions and causing damage to local ecosystems worldwide. However, carbon-negative diamonds are produced through a process that actually captures carbon emissions from the atmosphere, making them a much more sustainable alternative for the jewellery industry.  Aether Diamonds, a major player in this industry, uses direct-capture technology for diamond production in a two-step process. First, a reactor is used to extract the carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, while this raw carbon material is placed in another reactor that kickstarts the diamond-growing process. The resulting diamonds are visually indistinguishable from traditionally-mined diamonds and have the same physical and chemical properties, but have been produced with a much lower carbon footprint.  This ingenious solution reimagines existing carbon-capture services, where firms are paid by various multinational corporations to capture their carbon emissions, by recycling this extracted carbon dioxide for an inventive purpose. By eliminating 20 tons of carbon dioxide for every 1-carat diamond produced, each diamond can actively contribute to carbon emission reduction efforts.  Beyond the jewelry industry, researchers have used a similar process to produce important industrial materials from carbon. Dr. Stuart Licht, a chemistry professor at George Washington University, is a leading academic in this field of renewable technology. His patented technology, the Solar Thermal Electrochemical Photo (STEP) energy conversion, captures carbon dioxide using renewable solar energy to create carbon nanofibers. This material provides a lighter and stronger alternative to metals like steel, and is used in luxury sports cars, aeroplanes like the Boeing Dreamliner, and high-end athletic equipment. These creative uses of carbon-capture technology offer a promising future, especially with carbon-negative diamonds for the sustainable fashion industry. Beyond that, these diamonds also offer a more ethical alternative — sustainable diamond production avoids the international human rights abuses and violence that traditional diamond mining has been linked to.  All in all, carbon-negative diamonds have the potential to revolutionize the sustainable fashion industry and beyond, and are a fascinating scientific innovation with many exciting future implications.

As demand for materials like copper and lithium skyrockets with the push for clean energy, companies are eyeing the ocean floor for a new source. But what are the potential consequences for marine life and ecosystems? Learn about the growing controversy and the UN's efforts to regulate deep-sea mining in this thought-provoking article.

Oxybenzone in sunscreens is disrupting coral reefs, leading to international bans. Scientists are now exploring eco-friendly alternatives like mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) found in ocean organisms that offer potent UV-absorbing shields, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns remain. Discover the latest research and innovations in the search for safer and more effective sunscreens.

Are you a plant lover who also cares about the environment? Then you'll definitely want to read this article from Smithsonian Magazine about Neoplants, a Parisian start-up that is creating genetically modified plants that filter harmful chemicals out of the air. Their first product, the Neo P1, is a bioengineered version of the popular pothos houseplant that can capture and recycle dangerous air pollutants commonly found in homes. But can these plants really make a difference? Read on to find out.

Electricity is a fundamental part of modern life, but could too much of it be harmful? Understanding the movement of electric charges and resulting electromagnetic radiation is key to answering this question. While some radiation, like UV light and X-rays, can be dangerous, most of the radiation emitted by human technology, such as mobile phones and household appliances, is harmless. However, some studies have suggested possible long-term harm from constant exposure to weak electromagnetic radiation. The debate surrounding this issue highlights the importance of reliable scientific studies and responsible communication of findings. Learning about the effects of electromagnetic radiation can help students make informed decisions about their technology use and contribute to ongoing scientific research.

Half a million barrels of DDT waste dumped in the ocean in the 1940s and '50s remain in startlingly high concentrations, spread across a wide swath of seafloor larger than the city of San Francisco. Recent studies have linked the presence of this once-popular pesticide to an aggressive cancer in sea lions, and significant amounts of DDT-related compounds continue to accumulate in California condors and local dolphin populations. With a $5.6-million research boost from Congress, scientists and environmental nonprofits are racing to figure out the extent of the contamination lurking 3,000 feet underwater.

Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world, but it has a weakness: it's prone to catastrophic cracking that costs billions of dollars to repair each year. However, scientists have discovered ways to create concrete that can heal itself. By adding hidden glue or bacteria and fungi spores to the concrete mix, cracks can be repaired up to almost 1mm wide. This technique has the potential to make concrete more resilient and long-lasting, which could drastically reduce the financial and environmental cost of concrete production. Learning about the science behind concrete and its potential for self-healing can not only be intellectually stimulating but also practically beneficial for the future of construction. Imagine being part of the solution to creating more sustainable and durable infrastructure for our cities.

Water is one of the most fascinating substances in the universe. Every molecule of water on Earth has existed for billions of years, cycling through rocks, air, animals, and plants. Water doesn't follow the normal rules of chemistry, expanding when it freezes and floating on itself, enabling complex life to survive on our planet. Hot water freezes faster than cold, and water molecules can float upwards, against the force of gravity. This strange behavior has been very useful, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the edges of our brain and plants to move water from deep below the ground to nourish their leaves. Our solar system is drowning in water, and where there's water, there could be life. Learning about the properties of water can help students appreciate the remarkable nature of this colorless, featureless, and tasteless substance that breaks so many rules of chemistry.

Mining has been a crucial part of human civilization for centuries, providing us with the resources we need to build, create and thrive. But with this extraction comes consequences, particularly in the form of mine tailings. Mine tailings are the waste materials left over after the ore has been extracted, and they can have significant impacts on the environment, particularly with regards to climate change. To understand the impact of mine tailings, it's important to first understand the science behind mining. When ore is extracted, the minerals are separated from the rest of the material, leaving behind a mixture of minerals, water, and other substances. This mixture is called tailings, and it can contain harmful chemicals, such as heavy metals, that can leach into the environment. Leading academics in the field, such as Dr. Sara Colombo and Dr. Jian Kang, have studied the environmental impact of mine tailings and have found that they can lead to soil and water pollution, as well as contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. For example, Dr. Colombo's research has shown that tailings dams can release large amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. These impacts are a concern for many communities, as well as for the planet as a whole. But despite this, there is hope for a more sustainable future. Researchers like Dr. Jian Kang are working to develop new technologies that can reduce the environmental impact of mine tailings, such as using them as a source of energy instead of just waste.

Researchers have powered a microprocessor for a year using blue-green algae and ambient light! This system, comparable in size to an AA battery, has the potential to be a reliable and renewable way to power small devices. The growing Internet of Things needs power, and this system generates energy instead of simply storing it like batteries. The algae system is made of common and recyclable materials, making it easily replicable.

Did you know that almost everything around you is being eaten by tiny organisms called microbes? These hordes of bacteria, archaea, and fungi have evolved to break down tough organic material into digestible nutrients. However, there is one material that almost no microbes can biodegrade: plastics. This is because most plastics have only been around since the 1950s, so most microbes haven't had time to evolve enzymes to digest them. As a result, plastics just turn into countless, tiny, indigestible pieces that pollute the environment. However, researchers have discovered microbes that may be able to take a bite out of this growing problem, creating super-enzymes that could break down plastics faster. By exploring the science behind microbes and biodegradability, you can learn how to become part of the solution to this global issue. Not only will you expand your knowledge, but you will also contribute to creating a cleaner, healthier planet.

Scientists at A\*STAR's IMRE have successfully upcycled PET plastic waste into polymer electrolytes, which are key components for safer LiBs. This paves the way for a future powered by more sustainable energy, creating a circular economy while combating the mounting plastic waste issue. The team aims to advance the technology for upcycling waste plastics on a larger scale to create components for eco-friendly batteries.

Did you know that the oldest glue in the world is over 8,000 years old and comes from a cave near the Dead Sea? Ancient people used this glue, made from a mixture of animal bone and plant materials, to waterproof baskets and construct utensils. Today, we have enough types of tape and glue to build and repair almost anything. But have you ever wondered what gives glue and tape their stickiness? Adhesives can be made from synthetic molecules or natural proteins and carbohydrates. In order to work, glue and tape need both adhesive bonds and cohesive bonds. Glue is stronger than tape in terms of absolute strength of adhesive bonds, but no single adhesive works well in all circumstances. Engineers weigh similar factors all the time. Choosing the right glue to withstand the heat inside an engine is a matter of life and death. And though the strength of duct tape's adhesive bonds can't compete with those of epoxy glues, tape does have the advantage of instantaneous stickiness in an emergency. Learning about adhesives can help you understand how things are constructed and repaired, and can even save lives in certain situations.

Teflon, a material that doesn't stick to anything, was stumbled upon accidentally in 1938 by a chemist named Roy Plunkett. Teflon's properties make it perfect for things that need to be slippery, chemical-resistant, or waterproof, which means it has a lot of applications. It can be found all over the place, from raincoats to industrial ball bearings to artificial joints. The incredible properties of PTFE, the chemical name for Teflon, come from its molecular structure. It's a polymer, meaning it's made of long chains of repeating units of atoms strung together. PTFE has tight carbon-fluorine bonds that ignore the normal, intermolecular forces that help substances stick to each other. Even the famously adhesive feet of geckos usually can't get a grip on it. Learning about the properties of materials like Teflon can inspire independent exploration of science and engineering, which can lead to exciting career opportunities in fields like materials science and chemical engineering.