Laura Allen

All Stories by Laura Allen

  1. Climate

    Chemists make device to destroy planet-warming methane pollution

    It can slash diffuse sources of this extremely potent greenhouse gas, such as from livestock barns and other sites.

  2. Chemistry

    Pollution power? A new device turns carbon dioxide into fuel

    Scientists made a device that converts the greenhouse gas into formate. This salt can then run a fuel cell to make electricity.

  3. Materials Science

    A new hydrogel could help pull drinking water from the air

    The salty gel absorbs more water from the air than similar gels, even in desert climates. This could provide clean water for drinking or farming.

  4. Tech

    New device can harvest clean energy from humid air anywhere

    Unlike solar power, this new source of electricity is available day or night.

  5. Tech

    High-tech solar ‘leaves’ create green fuels from the sun

    Chemists make a liquid alternative to fossil fuels from carbon dioxide, water and the sun. Their trick? They use a new type of artificial leaf.

  6. Climate

    For greener toilets and air conditioning, consider saltwater

    Using saltwater would allow coastal cities to save their freshwater for drinking and to reduce their carbon footprints. Some could save money, too.

  7. Psychology

    Supportive spaces help LGBTQ+ youth thrive in school and beyond

    Schools are safer and more welcoming when their policies respect and affirm LGBTQ+ students. Clubs can push for changes that boost kids’ mental health.

  8. Climate

    Eight ways you can cut your carbon footprint

    Learn how you can limit the climate-warming gases associated with what you eat, the products you buy and the energy you use.

  9. Environment

    Gas stoves can spew lots of pollution, even when they’re turned off

    A new study finds they can leak benzene and other harmful chemicals into homes, sometimes at very high levels.

  10. Environment

    For a better brick, just add poop

    Sewage sludge. Cow dung. They’re not just waste — scientists are finding uses for processed poop in construction materials.

  11. Climate

    Green energy is cheaper than fossil fuels, a new study finds

    Switching over to clean, renewable power — and away from fossil fuels — could save trillions of dollars by 2050, a new study finds.

  12. Climate

    Explainer: What is decarbonization?

    Lowering carbon levels in our atmosphere to stabilize the climate may start with switching from fossil fuels to greener energy sources.