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Climate News at MIT

One key factor in determining where microparticles are likely to build up has to do with the presence of biofilms — thin, sticky biopolymer layers shed by microorganisms, which can accumulate on surfaces, including sandy riverbeds or seashores.

Study helps pinpoint areas where microplastics will accumulate

Biofilms deposited by living organisms reduce the accumulation of small particles, while areas of bare sand can be microplastics hotspots.
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Mary Robinson, former president of Ireland, speaks at the Advanced Degree Ceremony of the MIT School of Architecture and Planning on May 29.

Mary Robinson urges MIT School of Architecture and Planning graduates to “find a way to lead”

The former president of Ireland provides wit and wisdom to the graduating Class of 2025 and guests.
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An H-cell modified with electrodes and an ion-conducting ceramic membrane to conduct sodium-air fuel cell experiments.

New fuel cell could enable electric aviation

These devices could pack three times as much energy per pound as today’s best EV batteries, offering a lightweight option for powering trucks, planes, or ships.
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A modeling study shows that global warming will likely make it harder to reduce ground-level ozone, a respiratory irritant that is a key component of smog, by cutting nitrogen oxide emissions.

Study: Climate change may make it harder to reduce smog in some regions

Ground-level ozone in North America and Western Europe may become less sensitive to cutting NOx emissions. The opposite may occur in Northeast Asia.
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MIT Sloan MBA student David Brown, the co-founder of Helix Carbon, walks through Kendall Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

A day in the life of MIT MBA student David Brown

The former US Army Helicopter pilot co-founded Helix Carbon to erase the carbon footprint of tough-to-decarbonize industries.
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India has pledged to reduce its carbon emissions, a difficult task as the country’s electric power system relies on many coal-burning power plants. While some of the plants are fuel-efficient (right), many more are not (left). MITEI researchers have explored and clarified India’s decarbonization options and have posted their methods and results for use by other countries in the midst of similar energy transitions.

How can India decarbonize its coal-dependent electric power system?

A detailed MIT analysis identifies some promising options but also raises unexpected concerns.
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