Issue 588

Food waste is a significant global issue and in recent years a range of businesses aimed at addressing it have been established. This study considered 41 case studies to assess the different business models adopted and how they utilise big data analytics. The researchers say that businesses focusing on resource efficiency typically make better use of big data than those which create value from waste. Click here to read more

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from freight transport is an important, but currently underdeveloped, emission-reduction measure. This study used data from a German pilot project to conduct a life cycle assessment of hybrid trucks that charge from an overhead line system while driving. The researchers say that by operating at full capacity with realistic technological improvements, the systems could reduce emissions by 22.1% in comparison to conventional trucks. Click here to read more

Ultraviolet (UV) filters are an emerging pollutant used in industrial processes, cosmetics and toiletries. This study aimed to expand knowledge on the sources and potential impacts of eight UV filters using water samples from beaches and waste-water plants on Gran Canaria island, Spain. The researchers report that high visitor numbers and sheltered conditions raised pollution levels at beaches, and that seawater concentrations sometimes presented a high level of environmental risk. Click here to read more

Pro-environmental behaviours (PEB), such as taking shorter showers or reducing household food waste, may be linked to personal wellbeing, or happiness. Research has shown that happiness and pro-environmental behaviours can be mutually reinforcing – that is, the more of these actions people carry out, the better they feel – which results in more engagement in these behaviours. However, little is known about how the PEB-wellbeing relationship is affected by privilege, wealth, personal inclination and culture. Click here to read more