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Can turning CO2 into recyclable plastics help humans win climate war?

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12 months ago

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In a groundbreaking shift towards sustainability, industries worldwide are harnessing carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) technologies to combat climate change.

From mattresses to clothing and beyond, innovative products are emerging due to repurposing carbon dioxide, offering a glimpse into a greener future.

As concerns about irreversible climate damage escalate, the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) underscores the urgency for action. With annual global CO2 emissions projected to soar, CCU emerges as a formidable strategy, capable of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20 billion metric tons by 2050.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) facilities worldwide are already operational, trapping CO2 from smokestacks or ambient air. However, a paradigm shift occurs with carbon capture and utilisation (CCU), acknowledged by the IPCC in 2022. CCU transforms captured CO2 into products like cement, jet fuel, and plastics, offering a multifaceted approach to climate mitigation.

The plastics industry, a notorious contributor to carbon emissions, is witnessing a transformative wave. Instead of relying on fossil fuels, companies are incorporating captured CO2 into plastics production.

Lux Research estimates the CCU market, valued at nearly $2 billion in 2020, could skyrocket to $550 billion by 2040, with a particular focus on enhancing cement and jet fuel properties.

Chemists and researchers are exploring catalysts to streamline the conversion of CO2 into plastics. Commercial successes include mattresses, car interiors, building insulation, and sports flooring from CO2-based materials. Additionally, efforts to create carbon-negative polyester demonstrate the potential to combat plastic pollution.

Microbial interventions, such as harnessing acetogenic bacteria, exemplify nature-inspired solutions. Companies like LanzaTech are collaborating with steel plants to convert industrial emissions into ethanol, which is subsequently used in fabric production. This symbiotic relationship aids in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by over 80%.

While challenges persist, including regulatory hurdles and fossil fuel subsidies, the trajectory is clear. Visionaries envision a circular carbon economy where products are designed for longevity and recyclability.

Researchers emphasise the need for legislative support, corporate alignment, technological advancements, and shifts in human behaviour to realise this transformative vision.

In a world grappling with environmental crises, the dawn of recyclable plastics from CO2 heralds a new era in sustainable innovation, offering hope for a cleaner, circular future.

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Balochistani Graduates Selected for NUTECH Islamabad’s Mining Program

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5 days ago

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For 18 graduates of the Reko Diq Mining Project, the National University of Technology, Islamabad, has started a training program. These graduates will complete an 18-month on-the-job training program at Barrick’s International Mining Sites after completing a two-month course at NUTECH.

The graduates will acquire proficiency in mining and associated technical domains during the training program. The chosen graduates will also get specific instruction on environmental protection, safety, exploration, and geology.

Along with the development of communication skills, the curriculum will also emphasise the most recent advancements in the mining industry. Barrick’s International Graduate Development Program for 2024 includes the Balochistani graduates.

Additionally, nine Baloch graduates were selected in 2023 and transported to Barrick’s facility in Argentina for on-the-job training.

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WhatsApp will improve the updates tab by introducing new shortcuts and a revamped interface.

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6 days ago

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WhatsApp is implementing a new upgrade to refine the Updates tab interface, hence boosting accessibility for status and channel updates.

WABetaInfo reports that the upgrade introduces expedited shortcuts that streamline the updating of statuses and channels. Users can now select and upload photos and videos directly from the interface, reducing the steps involved in choosing media from the gallery.

The Meta-owned messaging application has also revamped the button for generating text-based status updates and introduced a feature for recording and sharing voice status updates. This offers customers a more expedient method to disseminate text and speech updates without depending on the floating action button.

The revisions correspond with recent modifications to other tabs, ensuring a modernised interface that improves navigation and update creation. WhatsApp is modifying the floating action button to facilitate content sharing within channels.

When selecting the floating action button, users will see several options, including creating status updates, starting new channels, or sharing photos, videos, voice, and text in existing channels. This revamp integrates all content-generating options into a singular section.

The new shortcuts are anticipated to be accessible to a broader user base in the forthcoming weeks. Beta testers can currently access them in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android, version 2.24.26.13, available on the Google Play Store.

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China and Pakistan Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Launch AI-Powered Agricultural Equipment

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1 week ago

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Through Chinese expertise, the arrangement, which was made possible by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), intends to increase Pakistan’s agricultural output.

The Punjab government and China’s “AI Force Tech” company have inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to introduce advanced agricultural machinery during Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s visit to China.

Through the use of advanced robotic technology, the MoU seeks to transform Pakistan’s agricultural industry, guarantee economic growth, and boost farmers’ wealth with China’s assistance.

Through the partnership, Pakistan would also have the chance to absorb knowledge about China’s sophisticated farming methods.

In the meantime, plans have been revealed by the Federal Minister of Planning to send 1,000 agricultural experts to China to study contemporary farming methods.

A Chinese business and the Punjab government previously inked an agreement to introduce cutting-edge cancer treatment technologies to Punjab.

Maryam Nawaz signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hygea Medical Technologies while she was in China in order to introduce cutting-edge cancer treatment equipment and techniques to Punjab.

This equipment will make it feasible to treat cancer without the need for chemotherapy or surgery.

Following a meeting with Hygea Medical Technologies President Dr. Luo Fuliang, Maryam Nawaz said the organization has promised expert assistance for the establishment of the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital.

She went on to say that the hospital will work with China to treat cancer patients utilizing the newest equipment and techniques following the agreement.

Maryam Nawaz and a high-level delegation are present. From December 8 to December 15, the chief minister will go to Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.

CM Maryam Nawaz is expected to attend a number of conferences, events, and meetings with the goal of enhancing bilateral relations and looking into potential joint ventures in the areas of infrastructure development, technology, agriculture, and governance.

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