A KAUST-led team used acoustic technology and net sampling to explore ocean depths in 146 locations worldwide. They found that the biomass of pelagic organisms in the deep sea is much larger than previously thought, especially below productive waters. Deep-sea fauna migrates to shallower areas to feed, transporting carbon to the deep sea. Why it matters: This suggests the ocean's carbon pump is more effective than previously understood, with implications for climate change mitigation strategies.
KAUST launched the Circular Carbon Initiative (CCI) to address carbon management, capture, conversion, and storage of atmospheric CO2. The initiative involves developing materials and technologies to capture CO2 and exploring geothermal energy and geological storage. Novel fuel production will redefine CO2 as a valuable material through e-fuel developments. Why it matters: The CCI positions KAUST as a key player in developing sustainable technologies and contributing to Saudi Arabia's climate goals.
KAUST community members planted mangrove trees in the university's coastal wetlands as part of the 2022 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP). Mangrove forests are recognized as important carbon sinks, with KAUST hosting a thriving mangrove forest spanning over 110 hectares. The mangrove planting project was initiated to raise awareness of the negative environmental impact associated with travel-related carbon emissions from events like WEP. Why it matters: This initiative highlights the potential of mangrove forests in carbon offsetting and demonstrates KAUST's commitment to environmental sustainability.
KAUST and TU Munich researchers have published a paper on a novel carbon capture technique. The technique focuses on converting CO2 directly from flue gas using catalytic systems, addressing the challenge of CO2 conversion requiring purification, compression, and high temperatures. Catalysts are often seen as viable green technology options to increase the renewable rates of CO2. Why it matters: This research has the potential to advance sustainable energy solutions by improving the efficiency and reducing the environmental costs associated with carbon capture and utilization.
Researchers at KAUST have synthesized a novel porous organic polymer (POP) with enhanced CO2 adsorption properties. The POP material has aldehydes that allow for post-synthetic functionalization by amines, improving interactions between CO2 and the material. Experiments showed a significant enhancement of CO2 affinity and a drastic increase in heats of adsorption. Why it matters: This research provides a promising new material for economic and efficient carbon capture, addressing the urgent need to reduce CO2 emissions.
KAUST has acquired a BM Pro plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD) reactor from AIXTRON for wafer-scale deposition of graphene and carbon nanotubes. The reactor, capable of handling up to 4-inch substrates, will be used by Professor Pedro Da Costa's research team initially, before being opened up to other researchers at KAUST. AIXTRON's VP highlighted the system's uniformity, scalability, rapid heating, and plasma-based processing for growing graphene and nanotubes. Why it matters: This advanced tool enhances KAUST's research capabilities in carbon nanostructures, positioning the university as a leading center for materials science and nanotechnology research in the region.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has launched a blockchain-powered carbon tracking and trading platform at COP28. The platform, designed by TII’s Cryptography Research Center (CRC), aims to facilitate international trade in carbon tokens and promote green investment. It uses a lightweight, efficient blockchain implementation for transparent and secure verification of tracking and trading activities. Why it matters: The platform supports the UAE's sustainability goals and contributes to the global effort to achieve net-zero emissions by enabling verifiable and trustworthy carbon trading.