Are you ready to hear about one of the toughest challenges we face today? Look no further than cement, which Cody Finke, CEO of Brimstone and a leading innovator in 2024, will tell you all about. I delved into Brimstone’s efforts to reinvent cement earlier this year, and the results are truly fascinating.
Discover Something new
As we strive to combat climate change, the demand for metals continues to rise, from copper in transmission lines to nickel in lithium-ion batteries powering electric vehicles. But what if I told you that plants could hold the key to our metal sourcing dilemma?
Approximately 750 plant species, known as hyperaccumulators, have the unique ability to absorb and withstand high concentrations of metals. A groundbreaking research initiative is now exploring how we can tap into this natural trait to extract metals like nickel more sustainably in the future. Read the full story here.
Keeping Pace with Climate Change
After an unexpected lull, a hurricane brewing in the Gulf of Mexico is now set to make landfall in Louisiana, marking the end of a quiet hurricane season. (Scientific American)
→ Despite initial predictions of an active season, the recent calm in hurricane activity took many by surprise. (New Scientist)
Sea level rise is a critical indicator of climate change, but defining “sea level” poses significant challenges that have evolved over the centuries. While measuring sea level has improved, it remains a complex and crucial aspect of climate research. (New Yorker)
The US Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office holds nearly $400 million in lending authority. With this year’s election potentially shifting energy priorities, the office’s decisions could serve as a barometer for future energy initiatives. (Bloomberg)
What if fusion power proves effective but remains too costly to significantly impact the grid? Experts warn that fusion technology may be too expensive and arrive too late to make a substantial dent in emissions. (Heatmap)
While electric vehicle sales are on the rise overall, some major automakers are scaling back their zero-emissions vehicle targets. Despite growth in sales, the slower adoption rate has created uncertainty within the industry. (Canary Media)
The future of next-generation batteries faces tough challenges, as illustrated by the struggles of three notable startups. These hurdles paint a sobering picture of the industry’s current state and what lies ahead. (The Information)