A recent study published in the International Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development investigates the role of renewable energy microfinance in promoting financial inclusion and empowering vulnerable populations. Conducted by Andrea Gatto from Wenzhou-Kean University in Zheijiang, China, the research delves into the concept of energy microfinance and its potential to address the energy and
Technology
President Joe Biden recently convened a meeting at the White House with top tech leaders to discuss the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on society. During the meeting, Biden emphasized the tremendous potential and risks associated with AI. He acknowledged the significant promise it holds for our economy, national security, and society as a
RoboÉireann, the robot soccer team representing Maynooth University in Ireland, has emerged as the Challenge Shield winners in the prestigious RoboCup 2023 Standard Platform League. This international robotics competition took place in Bordeaux, France. By securing an impressive score of 67-2 across nine matches, RoboÉireann successfully overcame tough competition from teams hailing from Germany, the
Scientists have made a breakthrough in the field of single atom catalysis, with the potential to significantly reduce the emission of unburned methane from natural-gas engine exhaust. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, trapping heat at a rate 25 times higher than carbon dioxide. The researchers from the Department of Energy’s SLAC National Accelerator
Rice University engineers have made a significant breakthrough in clean energy by developing a device that can efficiently convert sunlight into hydrogen. This innovative technology combines next-generation halide perovskite semiconductors with electrocatalysts in a single, durable, cost-effective, and scalable device. The device, called an integrated photoreactor, has the ability to serve as a platform for
Researchers from the University of Maryland are employing deep learning, an AI technique, along with satellite imagery to identify unexploded munitions in Ukraine. The team has successfully mapped approximately 2.5 million artillery strike craters spanning a 500-mile area in the country’s agricultural regions. This data can be used by demining organizations to prioritize cleanup efforts
Scientists at the University of Sheffield have made significant progress in the development of robotic fabrics that can change size, shrink, and move with precision. Led by Dr. Roderich Gross, the study showcases the successful connection of low-power robotic modules via an elastic mesh, allowing them to move together in a coordinated manner. This breakthrough
A peculiar sight has become increasingly common on the streets of San Francisco in recent days. Driverless taxis are being targeted by a group of masked activists who believe that all cars, regardless of who or what is driving them, are inherently unsafe. The group, known as “Safe Street Rebel,” aims to promote pedestrian and
Elon Musk recently stated that Twitter is still grappling with negative cash flow due to a significant drop in advertising revenue. In response to a tweet offering business advice, Musk explained that the company’s financial situation is a result of advertising revenue decreasing by around 50%, as well as the burden of heavy debt. Musk
In an effort to address hygiene concerns associated with touch-based interfaces, engineers have been exploring alternative ways to operate devices without physical contact. Touchscreens and other commonly used input methods are often laden with bacteria and germs, making touchless interfaces a more hygienic option. To advance this technology, researchers from the Dutch Organization for Applied