Sustainability

Updating the self-sufficiency ratio

The level of self-sufficiency indicates the extent to which agricultural performance ensures food security. But it’s not geared to the challenges that confront agriculture today, says Roman Hüppi.

“We have to ask some uncomfortable questions”

All human activities affect the landscape and ecology, even if we stop using nuclear energy and rely on renewable energy. Astrid Björnsen led the joint Energy Change Impact research programme of WSL and Eawag. It provides accurate data on the potential and availability of renewable energy in the country.

Skewed perceptions in climate policy

The benefits of strict climate policies are often underestimated in public debate, while the costs are generally overestimated, says Lucas Bretschger. Climate protection does not have a negative impact on economic development.

A social network for global ecosystem restoration

ETH spin-off Restor aims to increase the success rate of ecosystem restoration and conservation projects by connecting people with better data and ecological transparency. To do this, it combines practical knowledge on the ground with data from ecosystem researchers and satellite imagery.

The biodegradable battery

The number of data-transmitting microdevices, for instance in packaging and transport logistics, will increase sharply in the coming years. All these devices need energy, but the amount of batteries would have a major impact on the environment. Empa researchers have developed a biodegradable mini-capacitor that can solve the problem. It consists of carbon, cellulose, glycerin and table salt. And it works reliably.

A cleaner science

Science helps us to analyse climate change and to act to limit its effects. But it also contributes to climate change, for example through the many trips scientists make to conferences or to visit colleagues. The institutions of the ETH Domain are committed to reduce their carbon footprint. Here's how.

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