The gold jewelery made from old phones

Anna Turns, BBC.com, September 5, 2023

E-waste is mounting. Now the UK Royal Mint has found a new way to extract the precious metals hidden in laptops and phones to reduce our reliance on raw materials.

Through security, equipped with a pair of safety glasses and a white lab coat, I’m taken behind the scenes at the Royal Mint near Cardiff, South Wales – a place that’s world-renowned for making billions of coins for more than 30 nations. For two years, the Royal Mint, the UK’s official coin producer, has been developing a mysterious new way to recover metals from electronic waste.

As I walk into her small demo laboratory, Hayley Messenger, a chemist specialising in sustainable precious metals, explains why nothing here is labelled: “Everything is a secret!” she says, pouring a ‘”magic green solution” into a one-litre-capacity (35oz) glass flask of fragmented circuit boards.

She and a team of chemists and chemical analysts, together with Canadian start-up Excir, have invented and patented a clean, energy-efficient way which they claim extracts 99% of gold from the printed circuit boards found inside discarded laptops and old mobile phones. Later this year, the Royal Mint is opening a new multi-million-pound factory which will be able to process 90 tonnes of circuit boards per week once fully operational, recovering hundreds of kilogrammes of gold every year.

When the luminous mixture starts to fizz, Messenger screws the lid on, then places the flask on a tumbling machine to shake the contents. In just four minutes, any gold dissolves and leaches out into the liquid.

“This all happens at room temperature and it’s very quick,” says Messenger who explains that this chemical solution gets reused up to 20 times, with the concentration of dissolved gold increasing each time.

When another mystery solution is added, the gold becomes solid metal again. This powder is filtered out and melted down in a furnace into thumbnail-sized nuggets. These nuggets can then be crafted into pendant necklaces, earrings and cufflinks. But the real beauty of these recycled precious metals lies in the scalability of this super streamlined chemical process.

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Worms with spider genes spin silk tougher than bulletproof Kevlar

Katherine Bourzac, Science.org, September 20, 2023

Milestone advance in silkworms could lead to commercial applications in medicine and textiles

Spider silk is stretchy, strong, and tough. But genetically engineering a more cooperative organism to produce it has proved elusive. Now, researchers have used gene editing to make silkworms that can spin spider fibers tougher than the Kevlar used in bulletproof vests.

The material, described today in Matter, is “a really high-performance fiber,” says Justin Jones, a biologist who engineers spider silks at Utah State University but who was not involved with the research. It could be used to make lightweight but tough structural materials for fuel-efficient planes and cars, he says, wound dressings for faster healing, and superthin but tough sutures for eye surgeries.

People have been cultivating silkworms for thousands of years, unwinding their cocoons to provide material for textiles. But their silk breaks easily. Spiders have the opposite problem: They make incredible silks, but the arachnids are hard to cultivate. One hundred silkworms can hang around peaceably in a small space, whereas 100 confined spiders will attack one another, until only one or two are left alive.

In an attempt to harness the best of both animals, researchers have tried for years to genetically engineer silkworms to make spider fibers. But spider silk proteins are large, and the correspondingly large genes have been difficult to insert in the genomes of other animals.

So in the new study, Junpeng Mi, a biotechnologist at Donghua University, and colleagues chose to work with a relatively small spider silk protein. Called MiSp, it’s found in Araneus ventricosus, an orb-weaving spider found in East Asia. The scientists used CRISPR to insert MiSp in place of the gene in silkworms that codes for their primary silk protein. But the scientists retained some silkworm sequences in their MiSp gene construct, Mi says, in order to ensure the worm’s internal machinery could still work with the spider protein.

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ITAM influence on cyber risk becoming a factor in credit ratings

ITAM influence on cyber risk becoming a factor in credit ratings, Alex Scroxton, ComputerWeekly.com, August 16, 2023

Credit agency S&P Global Ratings warns that organizations that pay inadequate attention to IT asset management as a factor in their cyber risk management processes may find their creditworthiness takes a dive

IT asset management (ITAM) and its relationship to good cyber security practice and risk management is becoming a vital element in determining an organisation’s ability to obtain credit, and those that lack an appropriate ITAM strategy may find their ratings adversely effected, according to credit ratings agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Global Ratings.

In its report, Cyber risk insights: IT asset management is central to cyber security, the agency explores how ITAM – defined as the practice of tracking and managing hardware, connected devices, software and networks throughout their lifecycle – is now vital to an organisation’s ability to proactively manage vulnerabilities, respond to cyber incidents and attacks, and minimise their financial impact.

It cites the 2017 breach of personal data on 149 million Brits, Americans and Canadians at fellow credit agency Equifax as a prime example of an incident in which ITAM, or lack thereof, was a decisive factor.

The US Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC’s) complaint against Equifax, which ultimately led to a multi-million dollar fine, cited an inability to maintain “an accurate inventory” of its public-facing IT assets that ultimately led to the failure to patch an Apache Struts vulnerability, which a Chinese advanced persistent threat (APT) actor was able to use to access its systems.

S&P credit analyst Paul Alvarez said: “ITAM is foundational to effective cyber security. Its absence at an organisation can be indicative of flawed cyber risk management and could weigh on our view of an entity’s creditworthiness.”

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Recycling power: vape batteries ‘marketed as disposable’ power e-scooter

Amber Allott, Yahoo UK, August 29, 2023

A recent graduate has managed to build an e-scooter powered by batteries salvaged from so-called disposable vapes, in a bid to make a statement about waste.

Wiltshire special effects graduate Tobiasz Stanford, 23, has managed to power up a £30 scooter he bought off eBay with 80 of the lithium ion batteries – to show disposable vapes are not as expendable as their makers claim.

It was now capable of reaching top speeds of 25km an hour, lasting six miles in a single charge, and can even tackle hills and puddles. Mr Stanford said he uses it every day, and it is “very reliable”.

His scooter had wowed a lot of people, he said, especially when they learned how he had powered it. “The only downfall is that it’s quite noisy, but other than that the performance is crazy.”

A recent graduate has managed to build an e-scooter powered by batteries salvaged from so-called disposable vapes, in a bid to make a statement about waste.

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Made from fungi, this vegan leather can self-heal holes or rips

Jude Coleman, SNExplores.com, August 30, 2023

Leather fabrics can be pricey — so a rip in a favorite jacket or purse might be upsetting. But what if torn leather could repair itself? That can’t happen today. But it might one day — if that jacket is fashioned from a specially prepared fungus.

Scientists shared their recipe for this novel leather in the April 11 issue of Advanced Functional Materials.

Most leather comes from animal hides. But researchers in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, have just fashioned theirs from mycelium (My-SEE-lee-um). It’s the interwoven, thready rootlike structures — hyphae (HI-fee) — made by mushrooms. Normally, these strands spread underground, below a mushroom. There, they absorb nutrients from the dead things the fungus digests, such as logs.

Fungal leather is hardly new. Some companies already use fungi to make leather purses and car seats. These help to satisfy a market for goods made without animal products. But those vegan leathers have always been made in a way that stops the fungus from ever growing again.

The Newcastle team thought it could help those mushroom “roots” retain their ability to regrow by tweaking how they made the leather. And it worked.

It takes a gentle approach

Other producers of fungal leather have kept their methods a secret. The Newcastle team is not doing that. In fact, it has offered a how-to guide for copying its innovation, notes Valeria La Saponara. She’s a mechanical and aerospace engineer at the University of California, Davis. Those instructions, she says, could inspire other scientists who want to make mushroom materials.

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Gen Z activists just won a first-of-its-kind trial against the state of Montana for violating their right to a clean environment

Matthew Brown, Amy Beth Hanson, and the Associated Press, Fortune.com, August 15 2023

Young environmental activists scored what experts described as a ground-breaking legal victory Monday when a Montana judge said state agencies were violating their constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment by allowing fossil fuel development.

The ruling in this first-of-its- kind trial in the U.S. adds to a small number of legal decisions around the world that have established a government duty to protect citizens from climate change.

If it stands, the ruling could set an important legal precedent, though experts said the immediate impacts are limited and state officials pledged to seek to overturn the decision on appeal.

District Court Judge Kathy Seeley found the policy the state uses in evaluating requests for fossil fuel permits — which does not allow agencies to look at greenhouse gas emissions — is unconstitutional.

It marks the first time a U.S. court has ruled against a government for violating a constitutional right based on climate change, said Harvard Law School Professor Richard Lazarus.

“To be sure, it is a state court not a federal court and the ruling is based on a state constitution and not the U.S. Constitution, but it is still clearly a major, pathbreaking win for climate plaintiffs,” Lazarus wrote in an email.

The judge rejected the state’s argument that Montana’s emissions are insignificant, saying they were “a substantial factor” in climate change. Montana is a major producer of coal burned for electricity and has large oil and gas reserves.

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Back to school green-living tips for parents and students

The back-to-school season is an exciting time for both parents and students. It’s a perfect opportunity to instill sustainable green-living habits that can benefit the environment.

By adopting eco-friendly practices, we can reduce waste, conserve resources, and make a positive impact on the planet. Let’s get started.

Choose Eco-Friendly School Supplies:

When shopping for school supplies, opt for environmentally friendly options. Look for products made from recycled or sustainable materials, such as notebooks, pens, and folders. Encourage your child to reuse items from the previous year if they are still in good condition. Additionally, consider purchasing second-hand textbooks or digital versions to reduce paper waste.

Pack Sustainable Lunches:

Packing a waste-free lunch is an excellent way to reduce single-use plastics and promote healthier eating habits. Try reusable containers, reusable food wrap and stainless-steel water bottles instead of disposable options. Choose fresh, locally sourced, and organic foods when possible to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation, and herbicide and pesticide use. Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers.

Encourage Sustainable Transportation:

Promote sustainable transportation options to get to and from school. If feasible, encourage walking, cycling, or using public transportation instead of relying on private vehicles. Carpooling with other families is another great way to reduce emissions and build a sense of community. By choosing sustainable transportation methods, we can reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.

Embrace Second-Hand Shopping:

When it comes to back-to-school clothing, consider exploring second-hand stores or online platforms. Thrift shopping not only saves money but also reduces the demand for new clothing production, which has a significant environmental impact. Encourage your child to donate or sell their gently used clothes to extend their lifecycle and support a circular economy.

Reduce Paper Waste:

Incorporate digital solutions into your child’s learning routine to minimize paper waste. Encourage them to take notes on their devices or use online platforms for assignments and submissions. Additionally, set up digital communication channels with teachers and schools to receive updates, newsletters, and permission slips electronically, reducing the need for paper-based communication.

Promote Recycling and Prevent E-Waste:

Educate your child about the importance of recycling and waste management. Teach them to sort their waste into recyclables, compostables, and general waste. Not sure what to do with outdated or broken cell phones, laptops, or tablets after replacing them with new tech for the year? Use ReturnCenter to conveniently recycle devices you no longer use and prevent e-waste. Get started on your return here.

Implement Energy-Saving Practices:

Teach your child about the importance of conserving energy at school and at home. Encourage them to turn off lights, computers, and other electronic devices when not in use. Consider investing in energy-efficient LED bulbs and power strips that can be easily switched off to prevent standby power consumption.

Making sustainable choices during the back-to-school season is a powerful way to create a greener future for our children and the planet. By implementing these sustainable tips, parents and students of any age can reduce waste, conserve resources, and make a positive impact on the environment. Let’s work together to instill eco-conscious habits that will shape a brighter and more sustainable world for generations to come.

Disorganization, Not Cost, Fuels the IT E-Waste Crisis

Disorganization, Not Cost, Fuels the IT E-Waste Crisis, Jack M. Germain, TechNewsWorld.com, August 31, 2023

Growing businesses often rush to upgrade hardware, which results in stockpiling unused computers, routers, and other IT assets. This practice can be a bad business strategy that leads to worsening security and environmental concerns.

In the 2023 IT Management Survey conducted by software and IT services firm Capterra, data from 500 IT professionals at U.S. small and midsize businesses (SMBs) shows that nearly a third (29%) engage in improper IT hardware disposal practices.

The research shows that SMBs typically hoard old computers for 2.7 years before grappling with what else to do with them. Even in the hybrid and remote work era, hardware pile-up remains a huge part of technology’s ongoing transformation.

Key findings of the Capterra report show that most companies recycle (80%), redeploy (65%), remarket (62%), or donate (54%) at least some of their IT hardware assets. However, many others resort to improper disposal that impacts negatively on the environment.

IT hardware devices often contain toxic chemicals that make them unsuitable for landfills or incinerators. These harmful elements are potentially devastating to the environment and people.

“There are serious environmental, legal, and regulatory implications of improper IT asset disposal, and businesses should, therefore, prioritize responsible disposition processes,” offered Zach Capers, senior security analyst at Capterra.

Disorder Drives IT Hardware Dumping Disarray

The ability to organize and stage IT assets for disposal is a critical factor in whether companies use proper or improper disposal practices.

Cost is not. Disorder — not cost — drives irresponsible disposition practices. Lack of organization is a challenge for 62% of SMBs inappropriately disposing of assets, compared to 42% of responsible disposers.

Far too many simply throw away no longer-used hardware. The research shows that companies engaging in irresponsible disposition practices are more likely to upgrade or replace hardware to scale their workforce, avoid obsolescence, and keep up with the competition.

To access the full article, click here.

Transform your living space with sustainable home hacks

Are you ready to transform your living space into a sustainable sanctuary? Today, we’re diving into some simple yet impactful sustainable home hacks that will not only reduce your carbon footprint but also create a healthier living environment. So, grab your reusable water bottle and let’s get started.

Embrace Natural Cleaning:

Cleaning our homes is essential, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. Swap out harsh chemical cleaners for natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. These eco-friendly options are just as effective and won’t harm your family or the planet. Plus, they’re budget-friendly.

Go Plastic-Free in the Kitchen:

Bid goodbye to single-use plastics in your kitchen! Invest in reusable alternatives such as glass containers, stainless steel straws, and beeswax wraps. These small changes can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in your home. Remember, every little step counts.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

Did you know that lighting accounts for a significant portion of your home’s energy consumption? Make the switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs to save both energy and money. They last longer and use up to 80% less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs. It’s a win-win.

Responsible Electronics Disposal:

When it’s time to upgrade your cell phone, laptop, or tablet, don’t let them gather dust in a drawer, use ReturnCenter. We make it quick and easy to responsibly dispose of used devices. Prevent hazardous materials from ending up in landfills, support charities, and declutter your home. Get started.

Opt for Thrifted Treasures:

One person’s trash is another person’s treasure, right? Instead of buying brand-new furniture and decor, explore thrift stores and online marketplaces for unique finds. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also give pre-loved items a new lease on life, reducing the demand for new production.

Composting Made Easy:

Turn your kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil by starting a composting system. Whether you have a small backyard or live in an apartment, there are options available to fit your space. Composting reduces waste sent to landfills and provides you with free, organic fertilizer for your plants. It’s a win-win for your garden and the Earth.

Sustainable Laundry Practices:

Upgrade your laundry routine by using cold water whenever possible. Most of the energy used by washing machines goes towards heating the water, so opting for cold cycles can significantly reduce energy consumption. Additionally, consider air-drying your clothes instead of relying solely on the dryer. It’s gentler on your garments and saves energy.

There you have it —our top sustainable home hacks to make a positive impact on the environment. Remember, sustainable living is a journey, and every step you take counts. By implementing these simple changes, you’re not only creating a better future for your family but also setting an example for others to follow. Together, we can make a difference, one eco-friendly hack at a time!

How a fleet of smart technology recycling trucks could help minimize waste

BusinessInsider.com, May 2023

Recycling collection is going high-tech with a smart system of innovative trucks, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) that is focused on increasing the amount of recovered materials and cutting contamination by analyzing where the process begins – your curbside.

WM, North America’s largest recycler of post-consumer materials, has equipped thousands of its recycling collection trucks across the US and Canada with Smart Truck^SM technology, creating what are essentially rolling data centers that service neighborhoods and gain critical insight to identify recycling challenges and boost efficiency.

According to the most updated statistics from the US Environmental Protection Agency, more than 69 million tons of materials were recycled in 2018, and experts say increasing consumer understanding of how and what to recycle could provide an added boost. The Recycling Partnership, a non-governmental organization that is committed to advancing a circular economy by building a better recycling system, found that when shown real-world packaging, 70% of survey respondents admit to being confused about how to recycle correctly.

“It comes down to clarity,” said Brent Bell, vice president of recycling, WM. “With regulations and standards varying from community to community, it can be difficult to determine what can and cannot go in the recycling bins. At WM, we are using technology to help remove the guesswork and educate our customers, so more materials can be captured and used again.”

Here’s how Smart Truck^SMworks: When WM trucks collect recyclables from customer bins, cameras and sensors scan the materials and capture real-time video of the contents. The images are sent to a centralized automated system where AI quickly identifies common service challenges like overfilled containers, bins not placed out for service, and recycling contamination — where food waste or other non-recyclable materials are included in the bins.

To access the full article, click here.