Our blog features brief essays, expert commentary, op-eds, and Q&As that cover a wide variety of energy and environmental topics. Each entry is written by researchers from around Penn State, including faculty members and graduate students.
How solutions journalism can transform climate change reporting and inspire action
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NameCassandra LC Troy
News coverage focused on climate solutions can can motivate people to engage in climate-friendly behaviors. However, journalists face challenges in reporting on these complex issues, and they need support to inform and empower the public.
Soil organic carbon sequestration, the microbial carbon fee, and the microbial premium
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While increasing soil organic carbon can help sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide, it's challenging due to microbial respiration and other factors. However, practices that promote soil health and prevent carbon losses, such as avoiding land use conversion, can still be beneficial for both soil and climate.
Empowering people to address climate change, one community at a time
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Penn State's Local Climate Action Program is a collaborative initiative that empowers communities to take action against climate change by engaging students, faculty, and local officials in developing and implementing sustainable solutions.
Electrochemical extraction of lithium provides sustainable battery solution
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The increasing demand for lithium has led to rising costs and environmental concerns. Researchers have developed a new method that could provide a more sustainable and affordable way to extract this essential mineral.
Are lawsuits effective ways to protect the climate and environment?
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Lawsuits are a method used by numerous groups to try to protect the climate and environment, from suing governments to accusing companies of misleading marketing. We spoke with Hannah Wiseman, an IEE faculty member and professor of law at Penn State Law, about these lawsuits and their impact on the environment and climate.
Climate change, cities, and net-zero emission buildings
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Despite their small geographical footprints, cities incorporate a high density of buildings and great concentration of urban residents, making them the hotspots of resource and energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Using outer space for cooling and energy on Earth
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A Penn State research group is developing a new way to cool buildings and devices by using a special material that lets sunlight pass through to generate electricity while also releasing heat into space, providing cooling without using electricity.
Climate-smart forestry: Mitigating climate change and enhancing resilience in Pennsylvania
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The climate crisis has put carbon sequestration and carbon offset projects on the international agenda. But what role can forests play in removing carbon emissions? Can healthy forests help Pennsylvania achieve state-wide climate mitigation goals?
Transitioning to renewable energy: Challenges and opportunities
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Countries around the world are exploring ways to transition away from fossil fuels. The transition, prompted by carbon emissions that exacerbate climate change, is vast and includes renewables such as solar, wind, and hydro. But is transitioning as simple as choosing renewables for energy?
Unlocking the true potential of wind energy
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Wind energy is a powerful and abundant renewable resource. It could hold the key to a cleaner and more sustainable future. But harnessing its full potential requires overcoming a crucial hurdle: efficiently transmitting electricity generated by wind farms to the power grid.