The transition to green hydrogen is critical for achieving sustainable energy systems and climate goals. This study presents MODERHydrogen-H2, a comprehensive framework for assessing solar- and wind-based green hydrogen production, fossil fuel substitution, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction. The method integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to optimize renewable energy resource allocation while adhering to sustainability criteria. Applied to four solar sites (2000 MW) in Colombia’s Magdalena–Cauca Basin and three wind projects (1700 MW) in the Caribbean Basin, the model estimates an annual production of 211,074 tons of green hydrogen by 2030. This output could displace 37,221 terajoules of fossil fuels, contributing 2.5% to the national energy matrix and reducing CO2 emissions by 10.09 million tons. MODERHydrogen-H2 demonstrates scalability and adaptability, offering a decision-support tool for global energy transition strategies. Its implementation supports affordable, reliable, and low-carbon energy systems, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets. The model offers a single platform from which to simulate renewable energy potential in a sustainable manner within a given geographical area, develop scenarios for modifying the energy matrix of a country or region, simulate rational and efficient water supply and demand for energy uses, including aspects of climate change, calculate green hydrogen production in a sustainable manner, and finally calculate greenhouse gas emissions.

To develop low-cost and renewable materials for treating dye wastewater, an efficient biosorbent was prepared from Bambusa emeiensis bamboo powders (BPs) via a simple alkali pretreatment. Systematic investigation revealed that NaOH concentration was critical for enhancing adsorption performance. Under optimal conditions (NaOH ≥ 0.2 mol/L, dosage = 10.0 g/L), the BPs achieved over 96% removal of cationic Methylene Blue (MB, 20 mg/L) within 20 min, demonstrating rapid kinetics. The adsorption process followed the Langmuir isotherm model with a maximum adsorption capacity of 4.1 mg/g without adjusting the pH of the solution and complied with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Thermodynamic analysis confirmed the spontaneous (ΔG < 0) and exothermic (ΔH = −52.73 kJ/mol) nature of the adsorption. Notably, the alkali-treated BPs exhibited a pronounced preference for the cationic dye, achieving a high removal rate of 96.5% for MB, in contrast to a much lower removal of 23.6% for the anionic dye AO7 under identical single-dye conditions, attributed to the enhanced surface negative charge after alkali treatment. Furthermore, the BPs maintained a high removal efficiency of 91.2% after eight adsorption-desorption cycles using 0.1 mol/L HCl as eluent, demonstrating excellent reusability. This study presents a feasible and sustainable strategy for designing regenerative bamboo-based biosorbents with rapid and preferential adsorption capabilities for cationic dye wastewater.

Comprehensive Summary Organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells are a key part of next‐generation flexible optoelectronic technologies, offering lightweight, environmentally friendly, and printable energy solutions based on renewable resources. With the development of new donor–acceptor materials and advances in device design, the power conversion efficiency of OPV cells has now surpassed 21% (the highest certified value of 20.80%). However, optimizing these complex, multi‐component active layers using traditional experimental approaches is slow and inefficient due to the enormous chemical space and the need to balance both morphological and electronic properties. In this context, machine learning (ML) has emerged as a powerful tool for handling complex data and modeling nonlinear relationships in OPV research. This review provides a concise overview of recent ML applications in the OPV field. We focus on its role in accelerating material discovery by rapidly screening large material libraries and identifying promising donor–acceptor combinations with suitable energy level alignment. We also highlight ML‐based performance prediction, which enables the estimation of device efficiency and stability before synthesis and fabrication. In addition, the integration of ML with automated experimental platforms is discussed, enabling high‐throughput optimization of processing conditions and supporting future large‐scale production. Although challenges such as limited data and model interpretability remain, the continued integration of machine learning with advanced experimental techniques is expected to significantly accelerate OPV development and promote the transition of organic photovoltaics from laboratory research to practical applications. Key Scientists

Lignin, an abundant natural organic polymer and renewable resource, presents grand challenges in efficient depolymerization into value-added products. Herein, we propose an innovative green mechanochemical (contact-electro-catalysis; CEC) strategy to completely degrade the lignin model compounds (99.98% within 330 min) in a chemical-free, environmentally benign, and highly efficient manner. This is enabled by ultrasound-induced contact electrification to generate electrons and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Comprehensive mechanistic investigations reveal that ROS play a predominant role in lignin depolymerization. Furthermore, the possible thermal effect of CEC on the lignin depolymerization was also considered. Extensive characterization demonstrates the exceptional recyclability of the CEC reagent with a recovery rate of up to 92%. This approach not only exhibits outstanding performance in accelerating lignin depolymerization but also underscores the immense potential of mechanochemistry as a sustainable technology for biomass and lignin valorization.

Natural farming is an agroecological approach in India that eliminates synthetic inputs, revitalizes soil health, and reduces cultivation costs through the use of locally available and renewable resources. This review synthesizes evidence on natural farming practices widely promoted under Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), with a focus on five core components - Beejamrit, Jeevamrit, Ghanjeevamrit, Acchadana, and Waaphasa-and their effects on soil quality and crop productivity. The review critically evaluates nutrient, pest, weed, and disease management strategies, alongside long-term sustainability outcomes. Empirical studies highlight improvements in soil biological activity, reduced input costs, and enhanced profitability for smallholders; however, yield variability and nitrogen adequacy remain concerns, particularly in nutrient-demanding cereals during transition phases. Policy initiatives such as the Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) and the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) reflect growing institutional support, yet adoption remains uneven across states, requiring region-specific strategies. Overall, natural farming represents a viable pathway toward sustainable agriculture in India, provided that long-term scientific validation, supportive policies, and market integration are prioritized to achieve national sustainability goals.

To address the increasingly severe ecological degradation, photocatalytic technology has attracted significant attention due to its pollution-free nature and the abundance of renewable resources. Numerous semiconductor photocatalysts have been developed. However, their performance has long been constrained by the rapid recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. In this study, the In 2 O 3 nanorods loaded with graphene structure has been fabricated, where In₂O₃ nanorods were prepared using the glancing angle deposition technique. The research aims to suppress the recombination of photogenerated carriers in In₂O₃ by leveraging the high electron mobility of graphene, thereby enhancing its photocatalytic performance. Under the optimal graphene loading conditions, the photocurrent density of In₂O₃/graphene is as high as 0.6 mA/cm². The photocurrent density and degradation efficiency has been improved by 81.82% and 33.5% compared to pure In₂O₃ nanorods, respectively. This enhancement can be attributed to the built-in electric field formed between graphene and In₂O₃, which facilitates rapid electron transfer and effectively suppresses charge recombination, thereby improving the overall photocatalytic performance.

Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant renewable carbon resources available, currently used predominantly for energy generation through direct combustion, yet still underutilized as a feedstock for higher-value biochemical conversion. Its structural complexity and intrinsic recalcitrance continue to challenge efficient biological processing. Overcoming these barriers requires an integrated understanding of plant cell-wall architecture, pretreatment chemistry, enzymatic mechanisms, and process engineering. This review provides a clear and conceptually grounded synthesis of these elements, illustrating how they converge to enable the development of second-generation (2G) lignocellulosic biorefineries. This review examines the hierarchical organization of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin; the principles and performance of modern pretreatment technologies; the synergistic action of cellulolytic systems, including lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) and non-hydrolytic proteins such as swollenins; advances in C5/C6 sugar fermentation; and emerging strategies for lignin upgrading. In addition to a comprehensive analysis of the literature, representative industrial and experimental case studies reported in the literature are discussed to illustrate practical process behavior and design considerations. By integrating mechanistic insight with industrially relevant examples, this review highlights the technical feasibility, current maturity, and remaining challenges of lignocellulosic biorefineries, underscoring their strategic role in enabling a competitive, low-carbon bioeconomy.

Abstract Over the last decade, there has been significant interest in renewable energy resources, with solar energy emerging as one of the most promising options. Among various technologies, the parabolic trough solar reflector with innovative receivers plays a crucial role in efficient solar power harvesting. This experimental study focuses on a stationary parabolic trough with a 2.8 m2 aperture area, integrated with a manually operated dual-axis sun-tracking system. The primary objective was to evaluate and enhance the system's thermal performance over three representative days in February, under both sunny and cloudy conditions. To optimize optical performance while minimizing design and fabrication costs, the prototype incorporated mirror strips, which also helped reduce lift and drag forces caused by high air pressure around the trough. A three-day experiment was conducted to assess the system's performance, and the results demonstrated that the water's highest recorded temperature was 84.2 °C, while the regenerative air attained 75.1 °C using a novel helical-coiled receiver design. With a maximum receiver thermal efficiency of 85.4% and an overall system efficiency of 55.4%, the design exhibits considerable promise for integrated air and water heating applications in residential and industrial contexts.

Lignin is the largest renewable resource for aromatics, and the quest to understand enzymatic lignin modification has never been more important. A recently recognized group of single-domain type-3 copper enzymes, named ortho-methoxyphenolases (o-MPs, EC 1.14.18.13) and previously referred to as short polyphenol oxidases (PPOs), found in filamentous fungi can sequentially o-hydroxylate and oxidize guaiacyl-type phenols into methoxy-o-quinones. A subset of these enzymes also targets syringyl-type phenols and, via an unprecedented oxidative o-demethoxylation mechanism, funnels these into the same methoxy-o-quinones generated from guaiacyl-type compounds. Here, we demonstrate that fungal o-methoxyphenolases also cleave bonds in lignin model dimers representing the abundant β-O-4'-linked substructures of lignin, having guaiacyl and, in some cases, syringyl terminal phenolic groups. Based on advanced liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis, and isotope labeling, we propose a mechanism in which the enzymatic formation of methoxy-o-quinone moieties in the model dimers triggers intramolecular rearrangements that lead to different types of bond cleavage, where C1-Cα cleavage predominates. Additionally, β-ether breakage and formation of Cα-ketone groups occur. We investigate the influence of pH and reductants on reaction pathways and identify strategies to steer the reaction toward either depolymerization or oxyfunctionalization of the dimers without interunit bond cleavage. The enzymes also target Cα-oxidized model dimers, albeit at lower rates. The findings of this study demonstrate the potential of using fungal o-methoxyphenolases for catalyzing selective ortho-hydroxylation and two-electron oxidation of lignin components and provide a new foundation for developing enzyme-based lignin valorization strategies.

The growing demand for sustainable alternatives to fossil-based chemicals has increased interest in platform chemicals derived from renewable biomass sources, such as malic acid. This C4 dicarboxylic acid is valued for its diverse application potential in food, pharmaceuticals, and bioplastics. Sustainable platform chemicals remain commercially uncompetitive primarily due to high production costs driven by high substrate costs. Microbial production using more cost-effective feedstocks like sugar beet molasses shows promise. However, it faces challenges from high osmolality, growth inhibitors, and predetermined substrate composition during fermentation, as well as elevated pigmentation that complicates downstream processing. Moreover, the separation techniques typically used for highly polar carboxylic acids face considerable yield limitations due to the high solubility of malic acid and its salts. This study developed an all-encompassing production process for malic acid from untreated sugar beet molasses. Fermentative malic acid production with Ustilago trichophora was investigated in batch, fed-batch, and pulsed batch in shake flask scale, followed by a scale-up into 150L pilot scale. A total of 15.7kg malic acid was produced in a repeated pulsed batch with membrane-based cell retention with a titer of 108g/L, a yield of 0.50g/g, and a space-time yield of 0.66g/L/h (max. 1.1g/L/h). In addition, the byproduct succinic acid was detected in concentrations of up to 22.9g/L. In the subsequent downstream processing, activated carbons were used for two-stage product capture, solvent change, and decolorization, followed by crystallization of the products malic acid and succinic acid. Based on experimental results, an Aspen Plus model was developed to estimate the overall process yields of 0.43g malic acid (98% purity) and 0.10g succinic acid per gram sucrose equivalent. A techno-economic analysis suggests production costs within the range of current market prices. Agricultural residue streams are often proposed as cost-effective alternatives for fermentative platform chemical production, although the challenges addressed hamper the direct transfer of process strategies from established organic acid production. By presenting a holistic approach explicitly tailored to malic acid production from untreated molasses, this work demonstrates the techno-economic feasibility of the developed process at a meaningful scale.

The use of renewable hydrogen is becoming increasingly relevance as a sustainable alternative to conventional energy sources, particularly in the transport and industrial sectors. One of its main advantages is that it enables energy use without generating direct pollutant emissions, thus contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases emissions and the mitigation of climate change. Green hydrogen in these sectors is typically produced through different electrolysis technologies. These processes are often powered by renewable energy sources—such as solar or wind—which are inherently variable over time. This paper presents a comprehensive comparison of the main electrolysis technologies, including alkaline electrolysis (ALKEL), proton exchange membrane electrolysis (PEMWEL), and anion exchange membrane electrolysis (AEMWEL). It analyzes their respective advantages, limitations, efficiency levels, response times, and adaptability to intermittent energy supplies. The study also explores the technical challenges associated with integrating each technology with renewable power sources, emphasizing key factors to consider when selecting the most suitable method. It is important to note that this analysis does not take cost into account, focusing instead on technical parameters and operational performance. The objective is to provide insights that support informed decision-making for the deployment of hydrogen technologies within sustainable energy systems. Key words. Renewable Hydrogen, electrolysis, AEMWEL, PEMWEL, AWEL.

Self-organizing tissues, such as organoids, offer transformative potential beyond healthcare by enabling the sustainable production of advanced materials. Resource scarcity and global warming drive the need for innovative fabrication solutions. This prospective review explores developmental biology as a manufacturing process, where the material (e.g., spider silk) and its production unit are self-organized (e.g., silk glands). Biological systems orchestrate the emergence of hierarchical materials with superior mechanical properties and biodegradability, using abundant and renewable resources. Tissue engineering enables the creation of biological systems that surpass current synthetic designs in complexity. We highlight application opportunities, focusing on spider silk as a model to demonstrate how organs synthesize and assemble next-generation materials. The concept of growing both a material and its organ production units is exemplified by hair-bearing organoids, self-organized from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Key challenges in expanding organoid research to new model species and scaling-up production are discussed alongside potential solutions. We propose a simplified description of these complex systems to help address key challenges. Furthermore, synthetic and hybrid approaches are explored, considering the ethical, societal, and technological impacts. Though still in their infancy, material-producing organoids present a promising avenue for sustainable, high-value products, fostering new interdisciplinary collaborations among bioengineers, developmental biologists, and material scientists. This work aims to inspire further exploration into the applications of self-organized biological systems in addressing global challenges. This article is categorized under: Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Cells at the Nanoscale.

XXVII Biennial Symposium on Measuring Techniques in Turbomachinery Larnaca, Cyprus, April 29 - 30, 2024 Editorial Preface Turbomachinery plays a crucial role not only in transportation but also in power generation. Although the energy sector has recently shifted toward renewable sources such as wind and hydro turbines, large industrial machines—particularly gas turbines—will remain essential components of a balanced and reliable energy mix for the foreseeable future. At the same time, the renewed global interest in nuclear energy is bringing steam turbines back into focus as key technologies for future power production. With sustainability becoming an ever-stronger priority, the push to improve turbomachine efficiency and to increase the power-to-weight ratio of aircraft engines is more intense than ever. Achieving these goals relies fundamentally on high-quality data gathered both from operational machines in the field and from controlled test rigs in research laboratories. List of Editorial board, Organizing committee, Senior Scientific and Advising Committee and Local organizing committee are available in this PDF.

Abstract The empirical evidence on the EKC hypothesis has been rather mixed, and the widely-used GDP per capita is deemed an inadequate indicator of well-being. Invoking the capital theory approach to sustainable development, namely of non-declining capital stock or wealth, we test the EKC hypothesis for carbon emissions in India for the period 1972 to 2013 through the change in comprehensive wealth (i.e. comprehensive investment) and its components of anthropogenic capital and natural capital. Employing the ARDL cointegration technique, we find N-shaped EKCs with comprehensive investment, and produced capital investment, indicating rising carbon emissions in India’s current growth path. Only the increase in renewable energy resources has helped reduce carbon emissions, while the changing economic structure and foreign direct investment have had adverse environmental impact. The systematic disinvestment in natural capital through the decades reflects declining carbon sequestration capacity, and points to the need for concerted efforts to preserve natural capital like forests for essential sequestration services.

Microalgae-derived biohydrogen as a sustainable fuel with advances in production pathways process optimisation and techno-economic assessment.

Harvesting electricity from the multiple dynamic processes of water through the hierarchical structure of wood utilized for water transport.

ABSTRACT Whether renewable resources industry agglomeration (RRIA) can break low-end lock-in remains a gap. This study identifies the mechanisms by which RRIA affects pollution control and carbon reduction in Chinese cities. RRIA generates local and spillover effects, but threshold tests show phased differences: carbon reduction has a single threshold (0.65), while pollution control has dual thresholds with synergy only above 1.05. Industrial upgrading (IU) promotes spillovers, whereas green technological innovation (GTI) produces a siphoning effect. Since 2010, policy-driven industrial chain reorganization has shifted cities from negative externalities to positive marginal effects, yet reliance on exogenous policies limits sustained endogenous GTI and IU. Regionally, the Northeast is constrained by GTI lock-in, the Central gains synergy through IU and GTI diffusion, the East reduces carbon through GTI but faces pollution challenges, and the West shows weak local governance with rising surrounding emissions. Policies should enhance endogenous GTI diffusion and coordinated industrial governance.

Mapping cost-effective hydrogen production based on renewable resource potential and techno-economic analysis: a case study

Efficiency and profitability of second life automotive batteries for renewable sources power plants

A leader-driven Wild Horse Optimizer for solving ORPD with integrated stochastic renewable sources