Sustainability
Making construction sustainable by reusing materials
Research
EPFL
One way to lighten the construction industry’s heavy carbon footprint is to reuse existing materials – an approach being explored by numerous researchers. Here’s a look at some of their ideas, ahead of an upcoming speaker event at EPFL.
Climate-friendly renovations using straw and hemp
Research
ETH Zurich
Renovating buildings to improve their energy efficiency is a crucial step towards Switzerland achieving its climate targets. ETH Zurich researchers can now reveal the most effective renovation strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions: replace fossil-fuel heating systems and harness the potential of bio-based building materials like straw and hemp.
Is climate-neutral air travel possible?
Research
PSI
Air traffic is responsible for two to three percent of global carbon dioxide emissions. To meet the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement and make air travel climate-neutral by 2050, PSI is carrying out research into sustainable aviation fuel. This could make an important contribution to reducing the climate damage caused by aviation.
Sustainable plastics from agricultural waste
Research
EPFL
EPFL scientists have developed a sustainable method to make high-performance plastics from agricultural leftovers, turning them into valuable materials.
AI-driven method helps improve quality assurance for wind turbines
Research
EPFL
An international collaboration between EPFL and the University of Glasgow has led to an advanced machine-learning algorithm to effectively detect concealed manufacturing defects in wind turbine composite blades – before turbines are put into service.
A “cultivation battle” for legumes
Research
ETH Zurich
Achim Walter believes increased cultivation of legumes would bring major benefits. But how to persuade farmers in Switzerland to make the switch?
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