Sustainability
Could water be the future to waste management
Did you know that you can start fire with water? Yes you heard me right you can start fire with the thing they use to put out fires with. Well, not exactly the same stuff. To start a fire with water, This stuff burns organic material that we’re trying to get rid of, like poop. And scientists think it can be used to get rid of even more persistent waste, too. Like forever chemicals. Supercritical water has the potential to burn all sorts of waste, and might get us over more than one hurdle on the way to clean drinking water. If water is liquid, ice is solid, and steam is gas, supercritical water is the fourth option.~ It’s water that’s been compressed and heated into something that’s not quite a liquid and not quite a gas.Instead, it looks like a gas and in some ways behaves like a gas, but in other ways also behaves like a liquid. To make that happen, you have to heat it under high pressure, to temperatures well above boiling. Imagine putting water on the stove. Normally, when water reaches approximately 100 degrees Celsius it starts to boil. At that temperature, the pressure inside the water equals the pressure of the air outside the water, so the water can become steam. But if you raised the air pressure using a pressure cooker, it would also raise the internal water pressure needed to start boiling. So by raising the air pressure, you can create an environment where water doesn’t boil at 100 degrees. Instead, water inside a conventional pressure cooker boils at about 120 degrees. That’s why pressure cookers can cook food so quickly. By keeping water at a higher pressure, they can heat food to temperatures hotter than the boiling point. If you can increase that pressure even more than a pressure cooker, you can raise water’s boiling point to even higher temperatures. But you can’t keep that up indefinitely. At a certain point, liquid water just can’t keep itself together anymore, no matter how much pressure you put on it. That point is called the critical point, and it happens at 373 degrees Celsius. It also requires a pressure of 217 bars, or more than 200 times the air pressure you’re most likely feeling right now. Once water reaches the critical point, it has to change states. But because of the pressure, it can’t turn itself into ordinary steam. Instead, it becomes something that looks like water vapour, but has some very different properties. Like a gas, supercritical water can make its way through tiny gaps in solid objects. But like a liquid, it can dissolve materials. That last bit is what makes supercritical water so special. Because it’s already really hot, more than three times hotter than ordinary boiling water, it can dissolve substances that wouldn’t normally dissolve in room temperature water. See, when water that hot hits organic material like the stuff that makes up our waste, it breaks the bonds between molecules. So those molecules are now free to react with oxygen in what’s called oxidation. The short and sweet of it is that the waste molecules lose electrons and become more positively charged. And that process of oxidation is what’s chemically happening when you start a fire, too. What we see as burning is actually fuel being oxidized, which is why fires go out when you take away their source of oxygen. That means fires burn away organic waste in a very similar way to supercritical water. When supercritical water encounters a molecule of waste, it breaks up the bonds between the atoms, letting them react with oxygen. That leads to oxidation that burns away what’s left of it. This process is known as supercritical water oxidation. It allows for burning without the same danger as fire. While we do see tiny hotspots of fire in a supercritical water reaction, for the most part, the reaction burns organic material really cleanly, without flames. Which makes it a great method for getting rid of sewage, especially in places where we can’t start fires. Like for example, spacecraft. Researchers at the European Space Agency have found that mixing supercritical water with organic waste materials like ammonium, can dispose of the waste cleanly, turning it into by-products like water and carbon dioxide, both of which can be recycled back into the spacecraft for use later on. Astronauts can use that water, and, well don’t think too much about where it came from. And the CO2 can be used to sustain plants, which can then provide oxygen and food to astronauts so they can stay in space for longer. That means supercritical water could be used to send astronauts on longer and longer space voyages, like the ones that we’ll need to get to Mars. Now, this process still has a few hurdles to overcome before it can be widely applied. The procedure leaves you with salt. And if you have ever lived near the ocean, you know that salt wreaks havoc on delicate machinery, making it dangerous on something like a spaceship. After all, oxidation is responsible for a lot of chemical changes, like corrosion that breaks down metal. But the end product of clean drinking water is worth working out these kinks for, both in space and here on Earth. One of the problems standing between us and clean drinking water at home is per- and polyfluoroalkyls, otherwise known as PFAS. PFAS are chemicals that have been used to manufacture non-stick cookware, but that can now be found in water sources all over the world. They’re called “forever chemicals” because they don’t degrade easily, which makes them difficult to get rid of. But when supercritical water encounters a PFAS molecule, supercritical water oxidation can break it down. So treating contaminated water with supercritical water oxidation can make it safe to drink again!, this oxidation still produces CO2. And while CO2 is useful in space, it’s a pollutant here on Earth. So any large-scale application of supercritical water to clean up our PFAS crisis will need to make sure our climate crisis doesn’t get any worse in the process. Researchers are working on ways to eliminate the CO2 emitted by the reaction before it can reach the atmosphere. When they can’t convert it into something more stable, they inject the CO2 deep into the ground where it’s locked away. With the rapid innovations development, I see a future with a whole lot less waste
By Hlengiwe Meyiwa3 years ago in Earth
A climate change
Once upon a time, in a small coastal village named Havenbrook, nestled between lush green forests and the shimmering ocean, lived a community whose lives were deeply intertwined with the changing climate. For generations, the villagers had relied on the bountiful sea and fertile lands, but now they faced an uncertain future as the effects of climate change began to manifest.
By PHILEMON MAMOSADI3 years ago in Earth
Connection to Nature
Chapter 1: Maya's Reminiscence Maya sat in her small office, surrounded by charts and reports that spoke of the grim realities of deforestation. As she stared at the computer screen, her mind drifted to her childhood, to the untouched forests she used to explore with her father. She closed her eyes and could almost feel the gentle caress of the forest breeze against her skin. The sound of rustling leaves and the distant calls of birds filled her ears. Maya vividly remembered the awe and wonder that consumed her as she wandered through the vibrant green canopy, discovering hidden waterfalls and observing creatures in their natural habitat. Chapter 2: Oliver's Escape Meanwhile, Oliver found himself standing at the edge of a cliff overlooking the vast expanse of the ocean. The crashing waves below mesmerized him, their rhythmic dance captivating his troubled soul. The salty breeze carried with it a sense of freedom and rejuvenation. Oliver closed his eyes and imagined himself diving into the depths of the ocean, weightless and free. He recalled the first time he witnessed a sea turtle majestically gliding through the water, its grace and serenity leaving an indelible mark on his heart. In nature, he found solace from the chaos and despair that plagued his everyday life. Chapter 3: The Meeting Fate brought Maya and Oliver together in a crowded auditorium where they attended a conference on climate change. Maya, having just delivered a moving speech about the urgent need for conservation efforts, caught Oliver's attention with her passion and determination. After the session, they introduced themselves, and a connection sparked between them. Chapter 4: The Bond Maya and Oliver soon discovered their shared love for nature, and as their friendship blossomed, they found solace in each other's presence. They embarked on weekend hiking trips, exploring mountains and valleys, immersing themselves in the beauty of untouched landscapes. Each step they took seemed to wash away the weight of the world, and their hearts felt lighter. Chapter 5: Moments of Despair However, the weight of the environmental crisis began to take its toll on Maya and Oliver. Maya's heart ached with the ongoing destruction of the Amazon rainforest, while Oliver witnessed the increasing pollution of the oceans, threatening the very creatures he cherished. Their connection to nature amplified their despair, and they shared moments of overwhelming grief. Tears mingled with raindrops as they stood beneath a darkened sky, feeling the pain of a wounded planet. Chapter 6: The Call to Action But Maya and Oliver refused to succumb to despair. Inspired by their emotional connection to nature, they decided to channel their grief into action. They organized protests, lobbied for policy changes, and engaged in community outreach programs. Their voices grew louder, resonating with a collective desire for change. Chapter 7: The Transformative Power As Maya and Oliver fought tirelessly for the environment, they witnessed the transformative power of their efforts. They saw forests being protected, oceans becoming cleaner, and communities awakening to their responsibility. And in each small victory, their spirits soared. Chapter 8: Whispers of the Earth One day, as Maya and Oliver stood side by side in a newly restored forest, they closed their eyes and listened. Among the gentle swaying of leaves, they heard the whispers of the Earth. It was a symphony of gratitude, a melody of hope. Nature, resilient and forgiving, whispered its thanks for their unwavering dedication. Maya and Oliver held hands, their hearts brimming with emotion. They knew their journey was far from over, but in that moment, they understood the profound impact their emotional connection to nature had on their lives and the world around them. In the whispers of the Earth, they found strength, purpose, and a deep sense of belonging. And together, they would continue to protect and cherish the precious wonders of the natural world, for it was in those whispers that their truest selves were revealed.
By Peace Nwachukwu3 years ago in Earth
PAUL TIERNEY as the referee for the FA finals 2023
In a momentous announcement that sent waves of excitement across the footballing world, the team of match officials for the highly anticipated 2023 Emirates FA Cup Final has been confirmed. Among them, Paul Tierney, a name synonymous with integrity and expertise, has been bestowed with the extraordinary honor of refereeing the grand final at the iconic Wembley Stadium connected by EE.
By Mobilyte Emeribe3 years ago in Earth
The Vanishing Shore
As the sun made its first appearance of the day, it cast a warm, golden light across the still waters below. An elderly fisherman named Juan was spotted on the deck of his rusty boat, tightly gripping the steering wheel with his calloused hands. Juan had a beard and graying hair. His nostrils were filled with the reassuring scent of saltwater, which combined with the memories of a lifetime spent working on ships His eyes were filled with the memories of a lifetime spent working on ships. Today, on the other hand, was not like other days; rather, there was a pervasive and overwhelming sense of unease that permeated the area. For a good number of generations, Juan's family has made this stretch of coastline their permanent home. The ocean provided them with food, a safe haven, and a means to support themselves throughout their existence. While they were throwing their nets in these waterways, they did it with a great sense of reverence and wonder for the delicate balance that nature maintains. But as the years passed, a shadow emerged on the horizon, and Juan knew that he could no longer deny the truth: it was vanishing, evaporating like sand between his fingers. He had no choice but to accept reality. He could no longer turn a blind eye to the truth. His treasured beachfront had been chipped away by coastal erosion, and the once-familiar landscape was vanishing piece by piece. Coastal erosion. The pounding waves that had put him to sleep were now mercilessly chewing away at the weak dunes, consuming his history and leaving his future uncertain. This had the effect of putting him to sleep. It was as if the sea itself had turned against him, transforming him into a determined adversary who had no regard for the memories that were etched into his heart. It was as if the sea had turned against him. On the day when Juan set sail from land in the direction of the ocean, he couldn't help but feel the weight of an impending loss. The briny breeze carried with it the reverberations of the many fishermen whose livelihoods had been obliterated as a result of the merciless forces of nature. These echoes were transported over land by the wind that came off the sea. His soul hurt for them because they went through the misery that was shared by all of them, a sorrow that transcended country boundaries and connected all of their hearts. Because the shoreline continued to recede and make the community more exposed, the hamlet became more susceptible to severe tides as the days passed. This was because the village got more exposed. The persistent waves were eroding the foundations of residences that had been standing for decades, which placed the homes in a precarious position on the verge of collapsing. It became necessary for families to uproot themselves and leave behind their houses, their memories, and their fundamental sense of belonging as the ocean continued to advance into people's homes and lives. Juan's heart hurt for his community and the children who would have to grow up without the feeling of the sand beneath their feet or the sound of the joyful calls of seagulls. His heart also broke for the adults who would have to watch them suffer. There was a threat to his village. The fishermen were well aware that the destruction of their coastal history signified not only a loss of land but also a loss of identity and a terrible unraveling of the fabric that had held them together for a significant amount of time. This was something that they had been suffering from for quite some time. Juan's hopelessness served as the driving force behind his dogged perseverance. He ran away to the ocean for safety in a last-ditch effort to rescue his home and found the waves there to be very reassuring. He joyfully threw his nets into the water, hoping for a successful catch that would allow him to provide for his family as well as the countless others who relied on the wealth of the sea. He was not the only one who relied on the bounty of the sea. On the other hand, the waters that were once teeming with fish have turned desolate, creating the impression that the fish have fled in order to find protection from the changing currents. Juan, who was formerly skilled in the art of fishing, could be seen clutching his ancient fists in exasperation at this very moment. When he realized that the receding beach was removing not just their land but also the means by which they maintained their lives, it hit him like a ton of bricks. He had no choice but to accept reality. The precarious equilibrium that had existed between man and environment had been thrown off, and as a consequence, a void had been produced that no amount of resiliency could ever hope to fill. Juan found himself at a crossroads just as the sun was sinking below the horizon, casting a crimson hue on the beach that was fading behind him. The water, which had always been his refuge, now faced the threat of engulfing him in its totality, but he refused to concede defeat. The ocean had always been his safe haven. The fire of determination that burned within him was fanned by the recollections of previous generations, who had fought their own battles against the surging water. He was resolute to achieve success in a field in which his predecessors had been unsuccessful. Juan established himself as a leader by advocating not just for the safety of his community but also for the countless other coastal communities located all over the world that are facing a threat that is comparable to their own. He recounted their conflicts, their defeats, and the unwavering resolve they exhibited throughout it all. His words struck a chord in the hearts of those who listened to him, lighting a spark of optimism in a world that was otherwise devoured by melancholy. His remarks touched a chord in the hearts of those who listened to him. Juan made use of advocacy and storytelling in an effort to raise support, reawaken collective consciousness, and encourage people to take action against the forces that were devastating their beaches. He was successful in all of these endeavors. He spoke about his pain, his love, and his aspirations for a future in which his children and grandchildren would be able to feel the reassuring embrace of the sea once more and in which the retreating shoreline would become a thing of the past. He spoke about his suffering, his love, and his hopes for a future in which his children and grandchildren would be able to experience the comforting embrace of the sea once more. And as the tides continued to rise and as the coastline disintegrated beneath the inexorable onslaught of the oceans, Juan stayed strong as a sign of resiliency and as a beacon of hope in the midst of the impending darkness. He knew that even if the ocean ate his home, it would never be able to extinguish the flame of love and determination that burned within him, a flame that was inexorably linked to the shoreline that was receding into the distance. He knew this to be true even though he was watching the beach recede.
By Marvito Royals 3 years ago in Earth
Fuel Scarcity in Nigeria: An Incessant Struggle for Energy Stability
Introduction: Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, has been grappling with a chronic issue of fuel scarcity for decades. Despite being a major oil producer, the country's inadequate refining capacity and dependence on fuel imports have created a recurring cycle of shortages, long queues at petrol stations, and a burden on the economy and citizens alike. This article examines the root causes behind Nigeria's fuel scarcity, explores the dire consequences it has on various sectors, and suggests potential strategies to alleviate this persistent crisis.
By Ugwoke Samuel3 years ago in Earth
Developing Good Garden habits
Gardening is a rewarding and fulfilling hobby that brings joy and beauty to our surroundings. However, to achieve a thriving garden, it is essential to develop good garden habits. These habits encompass various practices that promote plant health, improve yields, and create a sustainable gardening environment. In this article, we will explore the significance of good garden habits and how they can positively impact your garden.
By Adegahi Adrian Ada3 years ago in Earth
"Lost in the Storm". Content Warning.
Rain poured relentlessly, obscuring the once-vibrant coastal town of Haven Bay. The air crackled with anticipation as dark clouds loomed overhead, promising a tempest of unimaginable proportions. Emily stood at the window, her heart pounding in rhythm with the approaching storm. It felt as if the entire world held its breath.
By Gessy Vackelson3 years ago in Earth
The Future of Our Planet
artriting The future of our planet is a topic that has been gaining increasing attention in recent years. With climate change and environmental degradation becoming more apparent, it is crucial that we understand the stakes involved. As individuals, it may seem difficult to make a difference, but by joining the climate and environment movement, you too can become part of the solution. We have the responsibility to take action and protect our planet for generations to come.Climate change is one of the most significant challenges facing our planet today. The Earth's temperature has been rising steadily, and this has led to a variety of problems, including melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. These challenges are not just environmental; they also have economic, social, and political consequences.
By Fathia Balogun3 years ago in Earth
