Innovations To Combat Pollution And Protect Our Planet

As the world faces the looming threat of climate change, governments, organisations, and inventors are coming up with innovative solutions to reduce pollution and mitigate its devastating effects on the environment. From energy inventions that reduce harmful emissions to creative approaches to waste management, here is an introduction to some of the inventions that could play a crucial role in combating pollution and preserving our planet.

Electric cars

The exact amount of emissions saved by switching to electric vehicles depends on the electricity mix of the geographic location. In places with a high proportion of renewable energy sources, electric vehicles can be even more beneficial for reducing pollution. However, even in places with a high reliance on fossil fuels, such as Estonia and Poland, electric vehicles can still be less polluting than conventional cars as electricity grids gradually become less carbon-intensive.

The benefits of electric cars are clear, and they are an important step towards reducing pollution and improving air quality, especially in densely populated urban areas.

Energy storage systems

One innovative energy storage system is sand energy storage. This method involves storing excess energy from solar or wind sources in super-hot silica sand for future use. Sand is an inexpensive and abundant resource, making this system a cost-effective solution. Additionally, sand energy storage does not produce harmful chemicals or heat-trapping gases, contributing to the goal of net-zero emissions.

Another type of energy storage system is the gravity battery, which offers several advantages over chemical batteries. Gravity batteries are cost-effective, environmentally safe, and provide immediate energy availability. They consist of weights, tubes, cords, and coils, with the weights being lifted when energy is stored and lowered when energy is discharged.

Rust batteries, or iron-air batteries, are another innovative solution. These batteries utilise iron pellets as their major raw material and harness the process of rusting to store energy. The benefits of rust batteries include recyclability and energy security.

Liquid air batteries are also worth mentioning. This type of battery stores energy by using electricity to cool and liquefy air, which is then converted back into gaseous form to generate electricity. Liquid air batteries have a minimal impact on the environment and offer longer-lasting performance compared to lithium-ion batteries.

Lastly, bladeless wind turbines generate energy using resonant vibrations instead of traditional rotating blades. This technology is more closely related to solar energy generation and operates autonomously with low-power systems. Bladeless wind turbines have a sleek design, require minimal maintenance, and have no environmental impact.

Innovative filters

One example is the use of light pollution filters for astrophotography. These filters can be attached to a camera lens or placed inside the camera body, and they work by blocking specific wavelengths of artificial light, such as street lamps, allowing the camera to capture clearer images of the night sky.

Another type of innovative filter is the use of moss-covered tree benches, which act as natural air filters. These benches, such as those created by Green City Solutions, are covered in moss that absorbs and digests air pollutants, providing the same benefit as 275 trees.

There are also filters designed specifically for cars, such as the AeroNOx, which aims to reduce car emissions, as well as industrial filters like Cleanair and INFUSER, which focus on reducing pollution in the industrial sector.

In addition, there are personal air filters such as masks and helmets that individuals can use to protect themselves from air pollution. These often contain activated carbon filters that help remove pollutants and odours from the air.

Lastly, there is ongoing research and development in the field of pollution filters, with new inventions and innovations being created all the time to help reduce pollution and its impact on the environment.

Water-saving appliances

Front-Load Washing Machines

Front-load washing machines are a great way to save water, energy, and detergent compared to top-load alternatives. They use gravity instead of a mechanical agitator to circulate clothes, reducing wear and tear on clothing. Look for features like temperature and water usage controls, and "suds-saver" settings.

Water-Efficient Toilets

Toilets are the largest consumers of water in the home, accounting for 30% of residential water consumption. Switching to a WaterSense-certified toilet can reduce water consumption by 20% and save a family of four $90 per year on water bills. Look for dual-flush toilets that offer different water usage options for different functions.

WaterSense Faucets and Showerheads

WaterSense-certified faucets and showerheads use at least 20% less water than standard models without sacrificing performance. By installing WaterSense-labeled products, a family of four can save nearly 3,500 gallons of water and 410 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year.

Energy Star Clothes Washers

Energy Star-certified clothes washers use four times less energy than those manufactured before 1999. Look for washers with a low water factor, indicating less water usage per load.

Dishwashers with Economy Settings

When choosing a dishwasher, compare the average water consumed per load. Look for features like skipping the pre-rinse cycle and economy mode settings, which allow you to adjust temperature and water amounts based on load size and dirtiness.

In addition to choosing water-saving appliances, remember that personal behavior changes can also significantly reduce water consumption. This includes fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, turning off water while brushing teeth or shaving, running the washing machine with full loads, and watering plants during the cooler times of the day to minimize evaporation.

Air-purifying street furniture

Another example of air-purifying street furniture is the artificial tree developed by Kyanos Biotechnologies. This five-meter-tall structure uses microalgae to feed on carbon dioxide and release oxygen, acting as a natural air purifier. It is claimed that this artificial tree can recycle 200,000 cubic meters of air annually, capturing carbon equivalent to 100 real trees.

In addition to these large-scale structures, there is also a range of air-purifying indoor furniture available. LG's Aero Furniture, for instance, combines air purification with wireless charging and mood lighting. This range includes tables with built-in air purifiers and charging pads, offering a stylish and functional piece for the home. Similarly, Ikea's Starkvind table is another example of an air-purifying table that can improve the air quality in a space of up to 20 square meters.

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