Elsevier,
Fuelling the Future: Intelligent Approaches for Harnessing Hydrogen Energy, Volume , 1 January 2025
This chapter explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in biohydrogen production, a promising renewable energy technology. Biohydrogen is regarded as a potential renewable bioenergy resource. There are many processes through which it can be produced, for example, thermochemical and biological processes like pyrolysis, electrolysis, dark fermentation, and photo-fermentation. It is more economically viable when it is produced from waste materials such as waste biomass via microbial fermentation or light-driven chemical reactions. In the last decade, AI or intelligent systems have revolutionized scientific research. Prospectively, classical AI, machine learning (ML), and deep learning algorithms can be applied to optimize biohydrogen production processes. These techniques including reinforcement learning, artificial neural networks, and genetic algorithms can help optimize crucial influential parameters affecting biohydrogen production efficiency and yield. Random forest and support vector machine are two specific ML algorithms that can improve process monitoring, yield prediction, and address challenges for biohydrogen production by managing complex data, accurately predicting outcomes with improved scalability for industrial production processes. The chapter also highlights AI applications in biohydrogen production employing various AI tools like jellyfish optimizer and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system that optimize operational conditions in microbial electrolysis cells, enhancing hydrogen yield from wastewater. However, there are many challenges to implement AI-based systems in practice at large that include data limitations, real-world variability, scalability, and supportive technology to AI. Moreover, intelligent systems’ limited adaptability, to date proven credibility and human oversight importance were also discussed with associated ethical concerns. It also needs continuous monitoring and improvement for economically viable and sustainable production processes. Emerging technological trends in biohydrogen production focus on autonomous AI-based production systems, predictive modeling, appropriate management of supply chain, and sustainability valuation. Future AI developments aim to make biohydrogen production more cost-effective, efficient, and scalable.
Elsevier,
Microalgae and One Health: Fundamentals, Biocompounds, and Health and Environmental Applications, Volume , 1 January 2025
The globalized world already faces numerous climate challenges. Emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), such as CO2, from human activities are the main highlight in the attempt to find culprits for global warming. Their emissions are already reaching alarming levels, and if they are not reduced or controlled as quickly as possible, the planet will be in danger. In light of this premise, microalgae play an important role in controlling and mitigating these gases. This chapter discusses the biological capture of GHGs by microalgae to control these emissions and achieve a more sustainable planet. Future perspectives and conclusions of this biological process are also briefly presented.
Elsevier,
Agriculture Toward Net Zero Emissions, Volume , 1 January 2025
Agriculture is key to global food security and is a pivotal component of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. However, the increasing utilization of fossil fuels to power farm machinery is a source of concern due to the established negative consequences of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on climate variability, with dire consequences for plants, animals, human settlement, and social and economic activities. Therefore, a revolutionary campaign is needed for innovative, intelligent, and clean technological advancement in the agricultural sector, such that carbon emissions can be mitigated with increased penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs). The solar photovoltaic (PV) system offers tremendous advantages in reducing carbon emissions among land-based RESs. The usage of RES to power agricultural equipment has significantly reduced carbon emissions in the agricultural sector. Farmers are now adopting biogas - produced from wastes of organic materials like plants and animals, for cooking and powering farmhouses and equipment. Solar-powered water pump irrigation systems can reduce carbon emissions by 97%–98% compared to conventional fossil fuel-powered systems. A solar powered tractor was found to produce a carbon footprint of 5.75 kg CO2 eq kg−1 vehicle annually, showing a potential 90% reduction in emissions. Also, a RES-based water pump system, RES-based maize sheller, and RES-based incubator revealed a potential reduction in GHG emissions up to 98%, 89.61%, and 97%, respectively. This chapter, therefore, discusses the pursuit of net zero emission from the viewpoint of land-based renewable energy deployment and carbon-neutral agriculture drivers and tools. The chapter also addresses the issues associated with fossil-based energy sources in agriculture, modern and current trends in agriculture energy supply, carbon neural agriculture drivers, and future agricultural energy supply perspectives, including research and development considerations.
Elsevier,
Carbon Capture and Storage in the Oil and Gas Industry: Solutions for the Energy Transition, Volume , 1 January 2025
Humanity is in the midst of a switch of energy sources to power the world, moving to renewables while phasing out fossil fuels. Yet, this process requires many decades and a set of temporary mitigation measures for processes that are required to continue. In this chapter, we explore decarbonization strategies like carbon capture and storage/utilization (CCS/CCU), their role in the current energy picture, and the roadmaps toward net-zero emissions operations in the medium term. Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of methods like pre- and postcombustion, as well as oxy-fuel combustion and membrane separation, provides us with a framework for action and a list of best practices to implement these techniques across different contexts. Applications vary in their levels of maturity, and some of them have suffered setbacks, yet we are only at the beginning stages of a promising path to achieving net-zero emissions across many different sectors. In this sense, the success of CCS/CCU projects is also dependent on the participation of other actors such as citizens, policymakers, governments, and international organizations. Because of this, the right regulatory frameworks need to be provided, and a joint effort that spans different disciplines is required for decarbonization efforts to come to fruition. A global transformation is, in the end, a challenge that can only be tackled by the best minds coming together and developing synergistic associations.
Elsevier,
Genetic and Reproductive Approaches for Sustainable Livestock Production, Volume , 1 January 2025
The development and promotion of climate-smart livestock systems (CSLSs) are crucial for ensuring sustainable food security. Climate change poses significant challenges to livestock production systems, which are crucial for food security and support various sociocultural, economic, and environmental aspects of human life. To overcome these challenges and ensure sustainable food security, the development of CSLSs is essential. CSLSs aim to maintain livestock productivity, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and promote locally adapted animal genetic resources. Opportunities exist along the livestock production chain to minimize GHG emissions associated with enteric fermentation, manure management, and feed management. Strategies for CSLS include improving fodder quality, utilizing adapted animal breeds, providing nutritional supplements, and diversifying livestock herds. Diet manipulation, such as using feed resources with high nutritional content and digestibility, can potentially reduce CH4 emissions while increasing livestock productivity. Mixed crop–livestock systems and agroforestry (silvopastoral systems) are key components of CSLS, offering diverse adaptation benefits and multiple roles in livestock systems. The effective utilization of local animal genetic resources and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems with scientific knowledge can enhance adaptation measures and resilience in livestock systems. Addressing animal health issues is also crucial for ensuring CSLS and sustained food security. The development and implementation of CSLS are essential for mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change on livestock production systems and meeting the growing global demand for animal products. Indigenous knowledge is crucial for CSLSs, as it has been a long-standing aspect of livestock production. Women are natural change-agents in livestock production, and equal opportunities for men and women across generations should be promoted through climate-smart livestock technologies. Community-based breeding initiatives, particularly for women, can empower local small-scale farmers and enhance sustainability in livestock production systems. Therefore ignoring indigenous knowledge is counterproductive for the success of CSLSs. The adoption of CSLSs can ensure sustainable food security and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable agriculture sector. The chapter explores the development and promotion of CSLSs for sustainable food security.
Elsevier,
One Planet, One Health, One Future: Charting a Course for Global Wellness, Environmental Resilience, and Sustainable Food Systems, Volume , 1 January 2025
The world's energy demand is relatively ever rising nevertheless the depletion of conventional energy resources is also accelerated at an alarming rate. Fossil fuel, the main conventional energy reserve, has been exhaustively used, which has resulted in the oil wells drying up, increased carbon levels, and disruptions in the ecological balance. With this alarming scenario and the energy consumption said to increase further in the future, the challenge is to address the increase in massive energy demand through clean fuel sources. Although the study on the use of solar energy, wind energy, and geothermal energy has seen promising results, these energy resources are influenced on geographical parameters and climatic conditions to a larger extent. Thus, the existing technologies being expensive and the lack of proper goal toward development of clean fuel, dictates a need for a breakthrough in the implementation of clean technology, to provide a sustainable solution that could help mitigate the alarming climate change issues and boost the socioeconomic growth. The chapter provides a comprehensive study of biomass as a crucial renewable resource in the context of sustainable development, with a particular emphasis on its role in energy production across various sectors. An in-depth analysis on the diverse nature of biomass sources, pretreatment methods, and their impact on downstream applications are highlighted. An extensive study on biofuel production from biomass, their roles in agriculture, industry, and energy production, techniques, and limitations of various conversion processes is also presented. The chapter also covers a detailed discussion on the potential for biomass-derived hydrogen production, current methodologies and the challenges faced in this emerging field. The innovative use of biomass-derived biomaterials for energy storage applications is also explored, showcasing the potential use of biomass in next-generation approaches to sustainable energy solutions. The chapter concludes with an examination of challenges and limitations of biomass energy with insights into the potential and future prospects of biomass in the context of global energy transitions and its vital role in shaping a sustainable energy landscape.
Elsevier,
One Planet, One Health, One Future: Charting a Course for Global Wellness, Environmental Resilience, and Sustainable Food Systems, Volume , 1 January 2025
Renewable energy changeover is essential for achieving a low-carbon and sustainable future. This chapter explores the vast potential of sources of renewable energy, such as geothermal, biomass, wind, hydropower, and solar, in addressing global energy needs while mitigating the environmental impacts of fossil fuels. It highlights the key innovations driving efficiency and cost reductions in clean energy technologies, such as advanced solar cells, offshore wind turbines, energy storage solutions, and smart grid systems. The chapter also examines the barriers to widespread adoption, including financial, regulatory, and infrastructural challenges, and discusses policy frameworks and investment strategies necessary to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy on a global scale. By unlocking the potential of clean energy, we can foster economic growth, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create a sustainable energy future for generations to come.
Elsevier,
Nanostructured Carbon Materials from Plant Extracts: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, Volume , 1 January 2025
Carbon-based nanomaterials derived from plant extracts have emerged as promising candidates for various environmental applications due to their unique properties and eco-friendly synthesis routes. These nanomaterials including carbon dots, graphene, nanodiamonds, and carbon nanotubes, possess unique physicochemical properties such as biocompatibility, low toxicity, and facile functionalization, making them suitable for environmental applications such as water purifications, chemical sensing, etc. Additionally, these green carbon nanomaterials are used in wastewater treatment to break down complex pollutants and act as catalysts in environmental reactions, accelerating pollutant degradation and reducing environmental impact.
Elsevier,
Sustainable Urban Environments for Human Health, Volume , 1 January 2025
This chapter explores strategies to reduce air pollution through sustainable energy practices, urban design, and mobility solutions, aimed at creating environmentally friendly and economically sustainable cities. At the household level, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy for electricity, cooking, and heating is essential, along with effective waste management and energy-efficient building designs. At the urban level, the “five-minute city” design is emphasized, promoting access to essential services within a short walk or bike ride, reducing reliance on private vehicles, and encouraging active transport. This chapter also underscores the role of urban green spaces in lowering pollution, enhancing public health, and mitigating the urban heat island effect. Finally, improvements in urban mobility—efficient public transport, infrastructure for walking and cycling, and fleet electrification—further support these goals. By adopting an integrated approach, cities can significantly improve air quality, foster economic sustainability, and enhance overall livability.
Elsevier,
Sustainable Urban Environments for Human Health, Volume , 1 January 2025
When considering urban energy transition, including renewable energy sources (RES) development in an urban space, we must be aware of the complexity of this issue. As usual, attention is first paid to infrastructural conditions, but the energy transition is a multifaceted process. In addition to technological and financial factors, spatial, social, cultural, and historical variables are pivotal because lasting change requires a participatory perspective and contextualization of actions. The study aims to explore the epistemological role of RES installations in urban spaces, focusing on their capacity to domesticate and normalize renewable energy practices in cities. We explored the theoretical side of the issue and provided some background on implementing RES in selected urban spaces in Poland. We pay special attention to their composition in the urban landscape and their potential role in the domestication of renewables in cities. RES installations have a chance to become iconic objects in urban spaces and, therefore, directly influence its inhabitants' social and sustainable practices.
