Environment

Microbial fuel cell technology uses the tiniest organisms on the planet--bacteria--as a viable option to make electricity. By linking bacterial metabolism directly with electricity production, the MFC eliminates the extra steps necessary in other fuel cell technologies. --by Joe Caspermeyer

An ASU researcher has designed a special backpack that can produce an electrical charge through the force of the motion of its wearer. This "energy harvesting" can generate the power to charge batteries or run small electronic devices such as cell phones, iPods or flashlights. --by Joe Kullman

A team of scientists has developed a new way to close the gaps in the global pollution dragnet using NASA satellite data. The technique uses satellite information to improve computer models of ozone events–filling in the blanks while expanding coverage to much larger areas. --by Nicholas Gerbis

As the volume of discarded computers and other electronic products increases daily, it's posing a growing environmental hazard. ASU researchers are learning how electronic waste can be managed to minimize environmental damage while increasing the economic and social benefits of reuse and recycling. --by Joe Kullman

The citizens of the United States own millions of acres of national parks and forests. This shared commonwealth transforms places like the Grand Canyon into active arenas of participatory citizenship as well as milestones in landscape conservation. Scholars at ASU have teamed up with the Grand Canyon Association to share the beauty and history of the canyon with visitors, armchair travelers and schools.--by Adelheid Fischer

Lots of people want to do right by the small blue planet we call home. Protecting our world is no small concern for the people who create the toasters, cell phones, automobiles, and medical equipment that we use every day. To practice sustainability, product designers must juggle a mind-boggling array of variables to create even the simplest products. --by Adelheid Fischer

Nanotechnology holds great promise for industries ranging from medicine to computers to fashion. But what kind of effect do all these tiny particles have on the environment? A Chandler, Arizona high school student is working with ASU researchers to find out. --by Diane Boudreau

Where some people see slime, Milt Sommerfeld and his colleagues see fuel and food. They believe algae can provide solutions to some of the trickiest environmental problems looming right in front of us. --by Diane Boudreau

Frustrated by frequently losing battery power in your laptop computer, digital camera, or portable music player? Take heart. A better source of "juice" is in the works. --by Joe Caspermeyer

Researchers at ASU's Stardust Center have one major goal: Design and build homes using materials and techniques that are affordable and ecologically friendly. --by Leah Hardesty