"Rocks are becoming rocks again!" says chemist Peter Psarras from the Clean Energy Conversions Lab (CECL) at the University of Pennsylvania. Psarras and his team are turning waste from industrial mines into magnesium carbonate through a carbon-neutral and inexpensive process, with the goal of storing CO2. With five partner mines, the CECL lab, funded by the Kleinman Center for Energy Policy and the School of Engineering and Applied Science, is exploring the environmental potential of mine tailings and determining the scalability of the carbonation process. Join Psarras and the CECL in their mission to tap into the "moved mountain" of waste and be inspired by their cutting-edge technology.

MIT engineers have developed ultralight fabric solar cells that can quickly and easily turn any surface into a power source. These durable, flexible solar cells are much thinner than a human hair and can be glued to a strong, lightweight fabric, making them easy to install on a fixed surface. They can be integrated onto the sails of a boat, adhered onto tents and tarps in disaster recovery operations, or applied onto the wings of drones to extend their flying range. This groundbreaking technology generates 18 times more power-per-kilogram than conventional solar panels, making it a promising solution to the present urgent need to deploy new carbon-free sources of energy.

We extract 100 billion tonnes of raw materials annually, destroying two-thirds of Mount Everest each year. But what if we could reuse the materials we've already extracted instead of gouging the planet for more? Architects and builders are leading the way in "mining the Anthropocene" by using waste construction materials to create sustainable buildings. From Rotterdam's Villa Welpeloo to the Brighton Waste House, learn how these innovative designs are changing the way we think about waste. Discover how architects like Duncan Baker-Brown are teaching the next generation to design for deconstruction and create a circular economy.

Have you ever wondered how cities are built? How bridges are constructed? How roads are designed? If you have, then a career in civil engineering might be the perfect fit for you! Civil engineering is a field that involves designing, building, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Civil engineers use their knowledge of mathematics, physics, and materials science to create safe, efficient, and sustainable structures that meet the needs of society. As a civil engineer, you could work on a wide range of projects, from designing a new highway to creating a sustainable water treatment system. You could be responsible for ensuring the safety of thousands of people who use the structures you design and build. Some of the most exciting and meaningful aspects of civil engineering include the ability to make a real difference in people's lives. For example, you could design a new hospital that saves lives, or create a new transportation system that reduces traffic and pollution. You could also work on projects that help communities recover from natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods. Typical duties of a civil engineer include designing structures, managing construction projects, and conducting inspections to ensure that structures are safe and meet building codes. Civil engineers can also specialize in areas such as geotechnical engineering, environmental engineering, or structural engineering. To become a civil engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs include civil engineering, environmental engineering, and structural engineering. Some civil engineers also pursue advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctorate, to specialize in a particular area of the field. Helpful personal attributes for civil engineers include strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team. Civil engineers must also be able to communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders. Job prospects for civil engineers are strong, with the field projected to grow by 6% from 2018 to 2028. Civil engineers can find employment in a variety of sectors, including government agencies, consulting firms, and construction companies. Some notable employers include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bechtel Corporation, and Jacobs Engineering Group. In conclusion, a career in civil engineering offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives, work on exciting and meaningful projects, and have a positive impact on the world around us. If you have a passion for math, science, and design, consider exploring this rewarding and fulfilling career path.

Batteries are a crucial part of our modern lives, powering everything from our smartphones to our cars. But the production and disposal of batteries have significant environmental impacts, from toxic chemicals and heavy metals to greenhouse gas emissions. Fortunately, there are sustainable options and alternatives to batteries that can help mitigate these negative effects. One such option is kinetic energy, which converts motion into electricity. For example, the piezoelectric effect harnesses energy from pressure, while the triboelectric effect converts friction into electricity. Another alternative to batteries is supercapacitors, which store energy in an electric field rather than a chemical reaction. They charge and discharge quickly and have a longer lifespan than traditional batteries. These sustainable options and alternatives to batteries are being researched and developed by leading academics in the field of materials science and engineering. Dr. Jennifer Lewis, a professor of biologically inspired engineering at Harvard University, is leading a team that is working on creating 3D-printed energy storage devices using a hydrogel-based ink. Meanwhile, Dr. Yi Cui at Stanford University is researching how to improve the energy density and safety of solid-state batteries. By exploring academic topics like materials science and engineering, students can learn about the properties of different materials and how they can be manipulated to create sustainable technologies. You can also learn about the environmental impact of technology and how sustainable alternatives can mitigate these effects. In conclusion, sustainable alternatives to batteries offer exciting opportunities for innovation and environmental sustainability. By exploring academic topics related to these technologies, high school students can gain a deeper understanding of the scientific principles behind sustainable energy and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Are you fascinated by the design and construction of towering skyscrapers, magnificent bridges, and sprawling road networks? Do you want to be a part of the team that creates the infrastructure that shapes our world? If so, then studying Civil Engineering at the undergraduate level might be the perfect fit for you! Civil Engineering is a field of study that involves the design, construction, and maintenance of the built environment. This includes everything from buildings and bridges to roads and water systems. Civil Engineers use their technical skills and creativity to solve complex problems and create structures that are safe, efficient, and sustainable. In recent years, there have been several exciting innovations in the field of Civil Engineering. For example, researchers have developed new materials that are stronger and more durable than ever before. They have also used cutting-edge technology like drones and 3D printing to improve the efficiency of construction projects. Some of the most inspiring academic figures in the field include Dr. Henry Petroski, who has written extensively on the history of engineering failures, and Dr. Linda Hanagan, who is a leading expert on sustainable infrastructure. At the undergraduate level, students in Civil Engineering typically take courses in subjects like structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, and transportation planning. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like environmental engineering or construction management. Some exciting examples of real-life Civil Engineering projects include the construction of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Panama Canal expansion, and the redevelopment of the World Trade Center site in New York City. After graduation, there are a wide range of potential career paths for Civil Engineers. They may work for government agencies, construction firms, or consulting firms. Some popular industries for prospective employment include transportation, energy, and water resources. Notable potential employers include the US Army Corps of Engineers, Bechtel Corporation, and Arup Group. Other careers that may be relevant to Civil Engineering include architecture, urban planning, and environmental science. To succeed in this field of study, it is helpful to have strong math and science skills, as well as an interest in problem-solving and design. Effective communication and teamwork skills are also essential, as Civil Engineers often work on projects with large, interdisciplinary teams. If you're ready to take on the challenge of creating the infrastructure of the future, then studying Civil Engineering may be the perfect choice for you!

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.

What if we could capture carbon emissions at low cost, using a common polymer found in dinnerware and utensils? Researchers at UC Berkeley and Stanford have developed a method for using melamine to capture carbon dioxide from smokestacks and vehicle exhaust, with efficiency comparable to more expensive materials. This breakthrough could help achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and the researchers are exploring ways to improve the carbon capture efficiency even further.

A permanent sunshade will be attached to London's "Walkie-Talkie" skyscraper to prevent reflected sunlight from damaging nearby properties. Developer Land Securities has received planning permission for the "brise soleil" solution after the glare from the building melted parked vehicles and damaged shops in the City of London. Discover how this innovative solution will solve the solar glare issue and protect the surrounding area.

Are you passionate about the environment and want to make a positive impact on the world? Then a career as a Green Building Engineer might just be the perfect fit for you! As a Green Building Engineer, you'll be responsible for designing and implementing sustainable building practices that reduce the impact on the environment. One of the most appealing aspects of this role is the opportunity to work on exciting and innovative projects that are making a real difference in the world. For example, you could be involved in designing a LEED-certified building that uses solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Or you could be working on a project that involves retrofitting an existing building to make it more sustainable. As a Green Building Engineer, your typical duties might include conducting energy audits, developing sustainability plans, designing green building systems, and overseeing construction projects. There are also many areas of specialization within this field, including sustainable design, renewable energy systems, and green building materials. To become a Green Building Engineer, you'll typically need a degree in engineering, architecture, or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Architecture. Helpful personal attributes include strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and a passion for sustainability. Job prospects in this field are excellent, with a growing demand for sustainable building practices around the world. Some notable employers in this field include the U.S. Green Building Council, the World Green Building Council, and the International Living Future Institute. With a career as a Green Building Engineer, you'll not only be making a positive impact on the environment, but you'll also have the opportunity to work on exciting and innovative projects that are shaping the future of the built environment.

Have you ever wondered how suspension bridges hold up under the weight of traffic or how dams can withstand the force of thousands of gallons of water? J.E. Gordon's Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down is an accessible and witty explanation of the basic forces that hold together the essential things of our world. From buildings and bodies to flying aircraft and eggshells, this book will ease your anxiety and answer your questions. Recommended for architects, engineers, and anyone interested in the foundations of our everyday lives, Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down by J.E. Gordon offers a clear and cogent explanation of the concepts of stress, shear, torsion, fracture, and compression. Whether you're building a house, a sailboat, or a catapult, this book is a handy tool for understanding the mechanics of joinery, floors, ceilings, hulls, masts, and flying buttresses. With its encyclopedic range of reference and witty insights, this book is also a fascinating read for those interested in the marvels of technology that shape our world.

Peter Calthorpe's "Urbanism in the Age of Climate Change" is a visionary work that challenges us to rethink our approach to urban planning. Rather than focusing solely on individual cities, Calthorpe argues for a regional approach that combines green technology and land use transformation to achieve a low carbon economy. With stunning graphics and real-world examples, Calthorpe shows how this integrated approach can lead to not only reduced carbon emissions but also critical lifestyle benefits. This book is a call to action for anyone interested in shaping the future of our cities and our planet. Recommended for urban planners, architects, environmentalists, policymakers, and anyone interested in sustainable development, "Urbanism in the Age of Climate Change" offers a comprehensive and innovative approach to addressing climate change at the regional scale. Drawing on thirty years of experience, Peter Calthorpe synthesizes cutting-edge green technology and land use transformation into a compelling vision for a low carbon economy. This book is particularly relevant for those interested in transit-oriented design, regional planning, and sustainable community development. With its stunning graphics and real-world examples, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to shape the future of our cities and our 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.

The world's shift towards electric vehicles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will require a huge demand for critical metals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and platinum. This demand will have economic and supply-chain consequences, according to new research from Cornell University. Discover how countries can manage this demand and promote a circular economy for critical metals.

Neri Oxman is a groundbreaking designer and architect who has been pushing the boundaries of interdisciplinary design for over a decade. As a leader in the field, she has made significant contributions to our understanding of how design can be used to solve complex problems at the intersection of science, engineering, and art. Interdisciplinary design is a field that seeks to bring together different disciplines in order to tackle complex problems and find innovative solutions. This approach is important because it allows us to take a holistic and integrated approach to design, rather than relying solely on one discipline. For example, Neri Oxman's work often involves collaboration between architects, engineers, materials scientists, and computer scientists to create structures and products that are not only beautiful and functional but also sustainable. One of Neri Oxman's most well-known projects is the Silk Pavilion, a structure made entirely of silkworms. The silkworms spun the silk around a steel frame, creating a structure that was both aesthetically stunning and environmentally friendly. This project highlights the importance of interdisciplinary design, as it involves the integration of biology, engineering, and architecture to create a new type of structure. Another example of Neri Oxman's interdisciplinary approach is her work on the Mediated Matter Group at MIT, where she is a Professor of Media Arts and Sciences. This group brings together researchers from diverse backgrounds to work on projects that explore the intersection of digital design, manufacturing, and the natural world. One of their projects, for example, involves using 3D printing technology to print structures made of natural materials, such as wood and mycelium (the vegetative part of mushrooms). Neri Oxman's contributions to interdisciplinary design have been recognized by leading academics in the field. For example, Walter Berry, Dean of the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia, has said that "Neri Oxman is a visionary who is pushing the boundaries of design in new and exciting ways."

Do you love the idea of designing and building transportation systems that improve people's lives? If so, you might be interested in a career in transportation engineering. This exciting field is all about creating efficient and sustainable transportation solutions that keep people and goods moving safely and smoothly. As a transportation engineer, you'll work on a wide range of projects, from designing highways and bridges to planning public transit systems and bike lanes. You'll use your expertise in math, physics, and engineering to develop innovative solutions that make transportation more accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly. One of the most appealing aspects of transportation engineering is the opportunity to work on projects that have a real impact on people's lives. For example, you might design a new highway that reduces traffic congestion and makes commuting faster and safer for thousands of drivers. Or you might help plan a new public transit system that provides affordable and reliable transportation for people who don't have access to a car. Some of the typical duties of a transportation engineer include conducting research and analysis to identify transportation needs and problems, developing and evaluating design options, preparing cost estimates and project schedules, and working with other engineers, architects, and planners to coordinate projects. There are many different areas of specialization within transportation engineering, including traffic engineering, urban planning, and environmental engineering. Depending on your interests and career goals, you might choose to focus on one of these areas or work across multiple disciplines. To become a transportation engineer, you'll typically need to earn a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs for aspiring transportation engineers include civil engineering, transportation engineering, and urban planning. In addition to technical skills and knowledge, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful for success in transportation engineering. These include strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and a passion for making a positive impact on people's lives. Job prospects for transportation engineers are strong and expected to grow in the coming years, particularly in the areas of sustainable transportation and infrastructure development. Some notable employers of transportation engineers include government agencies like the Federal Highway Administration and private companies like AECOM and Jacobs Engineering. So if you're interested in a career that combines technical expertise with real-world impact, transportation engineering might be the perfect fit for you. With a wide range of exciting projects and opportunities for growth, this field offers endless possibilities for those who are passionate about creating a better world through transportation.

Are you fascinated by the way vehicles move around cities and countries? Do you wonder how transportation systems are designed to ensure the smooth flow of people and goods? If you answered yes to these questions, then you might want to consider studying Transportation Engineering. Transportation Engineering is a field of study that combines elements of civil engineering, urban planning, and environmental science to design and maintain transportation systems. This includes roads, highways, airports, railways, and public transportation systems. Transportation engineers work to ensure that these systems are safe, efficient, and sustainable. One of the most interesting aspects of Transportation Engineering is the role it plays in shaping our daily lives. For example, transportation engineers design traffic signals to reduce congestion, plan bike lanes to encourage active transportation, and create public transportation networks to improve accessibility. They also work to reduce the environmental impact of transportation systems by developing sustainable transportation options. Recent research in Transportation Engineering has focused on innovative technologies such as autonomous vehicles, electric cars, and smart transportation systems. These advancements have the potential to revolutionize the way we move around our cities and countries. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in transportation planning, traffic engineering, and transportation systems analysis. They may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as airport design, railway engineering, or sustainable transportation. After completing their studies, graduates of Transportation Engineering can pursue careers in a variety of industries, including transportation planning, traffic engineering, and public transportation management. Some notable employers include the Department of Transportation, engineering consulting firms, and transportation technology companies. To succeed in this field, students should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an interest in urban planning and environmental sustainability. They should also have a solid foundation in mathematics and physics. If you are passionate about designing transportation systems that improve people's lives and want to make a positive impact on the world, then Transportation Engineering might be the perfect field of study for you.

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the world? Do you want to be part of the solution to global environmental challenges? Look no further than the field of Sustainable Engineering. Sustainable Engineering is all about designing and implementing innovative solutions that balance the needs of society, the economy, and the environment. This exciting field combines principles from engineering, environmental science, and sustainability to create a more sustainable future. One inspiring example of Sustainable Engineering in action is the development of green buildings. These structures are designed to reduce energy consumption and minimize their impact on the environment. They incorporate features like energy-efficient lighting, renewable energy sources, and water-saving systems. By reducing the environmental footprint of buildings, Sustainable Engineers are helping to create a more sustainable future for all. In addition to green buildings, Sustainable Engineering encompasses a wide range of innovative research and development. From renewable energy technologies like wind and solar power, to sustainable transportation solutions like electric cars and public transit systems, the possibilities are endless. Some of the most well-known academic figures in Sustainable Engineering include Amory Lovins, who has been a leader in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy for over 40 years, and William McDonough, who is known for his work in sustainable design and cradle-to-cradle manufacturing. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in areas like sustainability principles, renewable energy technologies, and environmental impact assessment. As they progress in their studies, they may choose to specialize in areas like sustainable transportation, green building design, or renewable energy systems. Graduates of Sustainable Engineering programs are well-equipped to pursue a range of exciting careers. They may find work in industries like renewable energy, green building design, or sustainable transportation. Some notable employers in this field include Tesla, General Electric, and the Environmental Protection Agency. To succeed in the field of Sustainable Engineering, it is important to have a strong foundation in math and science, as well as a passion for sustainability and environmental issues. Additionally, skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication are essential for success in this field. If you are looking for a career that will allow you to make a positive impact on the world, Sustainable Engineering may be the perfect choice for you. With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship, this field offers endless opportunities for growth and impact.

The US power grid is the world's largest machine, containing more than 7,300 electricity-generating plants, linked by some 11 million kilometers of powerlines, transformers, and substations. Power grid operators maintain a delicate balance between energy supply and demand, ensuring that their components work in unison and maintain a constant frequency throughout the grid. Power grids contain a mix of carbon-free and carbon-emitting energy sources, and researchers are experimenting with unique storage solutions to make full use of renewable energy sources. By shifting energy use to the times when there's clean electricity to spare, load flexibility can help flatten the peaks in demand, reducing the need for non-renewables. Smart devices like air conditioners, water heaters, and electric vehicle chargers can be implemented to decrease emissions by around 20%. Learning about power grids and renewable energy sources can help students understand the importance of balancing energy supply and demand and inspire them to explore ways to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of Italy's most iconic structures, has been saved from a date with gravity through decades of interventions. The latest survey shows the tower's health to be much better than forecasted, having crept upright by 4 centimeters in 21 years since stabilisation works were done.