Dubai College Sustainability Magazine by dubaicollege

THE DUBAI COLLEGE

SUSTAINABILITY MAGAZINE

Presented by the DC

Sustainability Club

Edited by Ali-Mansur .V Contents

Sustainable Law and Finance - 4

Sustainable Technology and Engineering - 21

Innovation in Sustainability - 48

ction

Sustainable Materials......................................................................................................................................

Smart Agriculture: AI’s Role in Sust

Science Based Solar Power........................................................................................................................

Harnessing Tech to Drive Sustainable Development

Artificial Photosynthesis

Section III - Innovation in Sustainability

Section Introduction

he Gumsh

The Future of Sustainable Aviation.......................................................................................................S

Coldplay x Sustainability

Sustainability Spotlight - DCICC

Acknowledgements.............................................................................................................................................................

OPENING REMARKS

by Ali-Mansur .V

Sustainability is the practice of

meeting our present needs

without compromising the ability

of future generations to meet

theirs. More than that, it is an

approach which brings together

environmental conservation, social

equity and global progress. It has

shaped the way we live, work and how people around the world interact

with our planet, ensuring that every decision we make builds a resilient future.

Welcome to DC’s first ever magazine dedicated to sustainability! Within these pages, you will find students from Year 7 to Sixth Form exploring a

wide range of issues and perspectives regarding sustainability. From

Green Bonds to Sustainability in Coldplay, this magazine contains a plethora of viewpoints, delving into the relationships between law, finance, technology and innovation in the context of sustainability.

We live in a time when environmental challenges and social

responsibility have become indistinguishable from every day life. I hope

that this magazine can encourage each of you to become active participants in creating a more sustainable future for humanity

“Small actions can create big ripples. Each one of

us has the power to make a difference in building a sustainable future”

SUSTAINABLE LAW AND FINANCE

SECTION INTRODUCTION

by Mahdi .K

Sustainable law and finance is the

field that integrates environmental,

social, and ethical principles into

financial systems and legal

frameworks to ensure long-term

prosperity without compromising the

needs of future generations. This

primarily involves regulating harmful

practices, redirecting financial flows

towards sustainable development,

and enforcing accountability at every

level of society

In finance, sustainability means making investment decisions that

consider environmental and social impact, such as supporting renewable

energy, ethical business models, and low-carbon innovation Legal

systems play a key role by setting binding standards and shaping the way

corporations and governments address climate change, resource use,

and human rights. From green bonds to climate litigation, sustainable

law and finance are central to driving change at scale.

Every financial decision and legal structure has a life cycle, and it is vital that sustainability is considered at every stage from regulation and investment to enforcement and impact assessment. This pushes for increased transparency, stakeholder inclusion, and long-term risk

management.

While sustainable law and finance aim to protect the environment, they also promote justice, equity, and economic stability By integrating

sustainability into legal and financial systems, we can support a global transition toward a more ethical, inclusive, and environmentally secure future.

THE RISE OF GREEN BONDS –

FUNDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

by Mahdi .K

What are Green Bonds?

Over the course of the last few decades, the

increasingly prevalent issue of climate change

has crept its’ way into the global limelight,

resulting in governments and corporations

alike searching for methods to reduce its’

devastating effects One methodology that has

been employed is the concept of green bonds;

these are financial instruments that are

designed to raise funds for eco-friendly

initiatives, whilst simultaneously appealing to

sustainability-conscious investors A traditional

bond refers to a type of debt security that

allows an entity, such as a government,

corporation, or other organization, to raise

money by borrowing from investor However, unlike a traditional bond, governments,

corporations or other organizations promise

investors that the funds will go towards

environmentally friendly projects (1)

How do Green Bonds Work?

Generally, green bonds operate in a similar

manner to other bonds, typically, a

government, corporation or financial

institution raises capital from investors, promising to repay the funds with interest over

an agreed period (2) What sets these bonds

apart though is their strict agreement to

financing sustainable projects, notably, projects related to renewable energy, climate

adaptation, sustainable transport and water/

waste management In order to encourage

investment into environmentally responsible

projects, governments are starting to offer tax

benefits to green bond issuers, serving as an

incentive for them to invest (3).

Why are Green Bonds Growing in Popularity?

As sustainability becomes a focal point for investors, there has been a surge in demand for ESG investments, driving the growth of green bonds. These investments

focus on companies or projects that prioritize environmental, social, and governance factors, promoting sustainable and ethical growth, pushing financial markets to offer more products that align with these values This demand is accelerating the popularity of green bonds as investors seek to support eco-friendly initiatives while achieving financial returns (4)

Furthermore, governments are increasingly aligning their respective policies to climate action goals, such

governments have committed to large scale green bond programs, with the goal of funding sustainable projects These commitments not only help attain the climate targets set in the Paris Agreement but also fuel the growth of green bonds by ensuring government-backed, reliable investment opportunities (5)

The concept of green bonds has been increasingly considered as a stable and low risk investment opportunity, making them noticeably appealing to investors These investors are drawn towards green bonds due to their low volatility, consistent returns, and most importantly, their alignment with sustainable economic goals. As a result, green bonds are gaining severe traction in the financial markets as a reliable, safe yet effective investment strategy for long term prosperity (6)

Green Bonds in Action - Case Studies

EUROPEAN UNION

In 2021, the European Union (EU) launched one of the largest green bond programs in the world, issuing a 250 billion Euro budget to align with its’ goal of becoming climateneutral by 2050 These funds will be strategically allocated to key sectors, including the renewable energy industry, public transportation, and improving energy efficiency in buildings. This investment aims to foster sustainable growth, reduce carbon emissions, and support the transition to a greener, more efficient future across multiple sectors of society (7)

CHINA

In the recent decade, China has emerged

as a significant player in the green bond

market, using these instruments to address some of the nation's most

pressing challenges, particularly the

alarming levels of pollution. For instance,

the Industrial and Commercial Bank of

China (ICBC) issued a $2 2 billion green

bond to finance wind power, solar farms,

and clean transportation initiatives,

exemplifying the nation’s commitment

to sustainability (8).

APPLE

Apple has committed over $4.7 billion in

green bonds to fund its’ carbon neutral

supply chain and energy efficient

production. These funds have been used to

construct large scale solar power plants,

reduce water waste and organize

reforestation programs to offset

greenhouse gas emissions (9).

These above case studies portray how both the public and private sector are

leveraging green bonds to finance various

sustainable initiatives, highlighting their

respective commitments to sustainable

business practices.

CHALLENGES & CRITICISMS

Greenwashing risks - Some issuers may label their bonds as ‘green’ without genuine

commitment to sustainable practices, misleading investors and therefore undermining market credibility. In the absence of strict enforcement, companies may continue to falsely label their bonds, raising concerns over the accountability and transparency of the green finance sector

Lack of global standard – Worldwide, there is no set standard regarding the framework that makes a bond ‘green’ . This has enabled bond issuers to loosely interpret certain criteria resulting in the increased prevalence of inconsistency in the market This makes it tougher for investors to accurately assess the true environmental impacts of such instruments (10).

Higher Issuance Costs - Compared to conventional bonds, green bonds are more expensive to issue since they frequently require additional costs for certification, compliance, and struc

the green financing market, especially smaller businesses, which would reduce the overall funds that are invested into sustainable projec

THE FUTURE OF GREEN BONDS

r green bond certification criteria with the goal of eliminating inconsistency and consequently, prevent greenwashing Moreover, the growing global emphasis on sustainability has driven the green bond market’s projected value to $5 trillion by 2030, as more companies and nations integrate sustainable finance strategies into their economic frameworks (12) Furthermore, sustainable finance continues to grow with the introduction of innovative policy instruments, such as blue bonds focused on

ocean conservation and social bonds aimed at promoting social justice (13).

Overall, green bonds are playing an essential role in the transition into a more sustainable future, allowing governments and firms alike to secure increased funding for environmentally conscious projects. While issues such as greenwashing and high issuance costs persist, the increasingly robust regulatory measures paired with the rising investor demand has pushed the instrument of green bonds towards the financial mainstream.

SOURCES

(1) ICMA GROUP

(2) WORLD BANK

(3) CLIMATE BONDS

(4) BLOOMBERG

(5) UN CLIMATE CLIMATE CHANGE

(6) FINANCIAL TIMES

(7) EUROPEAN COMISSION

(8) GREEN FINANCE

(9) APPLE

(10) OECD

(11) WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM

(12) MARKETS & MARKETS

(13) WORLD BANK

HOW HAS MOBILE MONEY MADE

SUB

-SAHARAN AFRICA

FINANCIALLY SUSTAINABLE?

by Kamala .B

The lack of access to finance and

banking has had far-reaching socio-

economic consequences globally over

the decades

Western nations majorly advanced from

1999, when the first Wireless Application

Protocol (WAP) enabled online mobile

banking services in Norway. This meant

that, without a desktop or high-end

smart phone, users could access their

bank accounts on the go The

technology then proceeded to rapidly

spread across Europe However, less

developed countries were outpaced by

their counterparts. Without access to

formal financial services, many small

businesses struggle to grow, individuals

lack secure ways to save or borrow

money, and heavy dependence on cash

fuels both corruption and financial

instability

This issue is particularly prevalent across

much of Sub-Saharan Africa, which has been among the worst affected regions.

Without mainstream financial systems,

businesses and individuals were

vulnerable to informal lending with

extortionist interest and fees As a result,

small businesses struggled to grow and

agricultural development stagnated.

Subsistence farmers are unable to

access capital, preventing them from

expanding - by purchasing new

equipment, or hiring workers to advance

into a functioning business

Additionally, this means many Africans cannot save money securely, making them economically vulnerable Instead, they must rely on informal lenders, who charge high

interest fees, or family networks that are unregulated and unsustainable In times of economic downturns, this puts people at an adverse risk in the face of inflation,

making them more susceptible to economic shocks Individuals lacked secure ways to save or borrow This has only widened inequality gaps over the years, especially for

women and rural communities. Already marginalised, they were barred entry to the revolution in money management. Their use of the cash economy fuelled corruption and enabled government instability As cash transactions are not declared, tax revenue evaporates, revenue that could otherwise be spent on improving public services, and healthcare and education. Corruption and illicit financial flows also thrive in these cash-driven economies, further weakening economic stability The inability to access credit for education, healthcare, or to fund themselves traps families in cycles of poverty.

Traditional bank accounts have many barriers especially in Sub-Saharan Africa that mean it is challenging for individuals to own one Typically, the infrastructure needed for bank accounts is only found in urban areas, immediately ruling out the millions that reside in rural communities Aside from this, banks often require minimum deposit sums, which many low-income individuals cannot afford, making this kind of banking inaccessible too. Account maintenance fees, withdrawal charges, and other banking costs also discouraged low-income sectors from using formal banking services A lack of education has created a sense of distrust and skepticism in the operation of these institutions, causing people to fear that they will only lose their money and become ultimately worse-off. While WAP initiated access to online banking, it was not widely available in rural areas as it required a stable internet and was limited to domestic transactions

Following WAP, mobile money or digital wallets revolutionised banking These are app-based platforms provided by technological companies competing on price With greater access, speed, and security, financial inclusion began to expand coinciding

with the rise in smartphone emergence across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Digital wallets allow people to store, send, and receive money using their mobile

phone app, instead of a traditional bank account. The wallet provider will secure background banking for its platform This provides affordable, accessible, and flexible financial solutions for millions, especially in rural and low-income areas Through

bypassing the need for traditional banking infrastructure, mobile money has helped

drive financial inclusion, economic empowerment, and digital innovation across the world and into the African continent

The adoption of mobile money accounts in recent years have shown significant improvements in financial inclusion In Sub-Saharan Africa, 49 percent of adults own a mobile money account as illustrated below The number more than doubled since 2011. Figure 1 shows countries with the most steady rise since 2014 Kenya has been renowned for a number of years for its robust approach to mobile banking. Local companies such as M-PESA, founded in 2007, have made mobile transactions seamless. Across various African nations, individuals can securely send funds, pay bills, and make in-store payments rather than relying on cash More than half of the early mobile money adopters had both a mobile money account and a bank account, bringing the average account ownership rate up to 75 percent as of 2014. Account ownership has plateaued at around 80 percent since 2017 as such a large percentage of the population is now actively immersed in mobile money This is a sustainable method aimed to tackle the issues brought on by limited financial freedom that restricted so many people’s lives By doing this, people now have control over their funds as well as access to global markets They are now more economically active and are encouraged to be entrepreneurs and they stimulate their local economies in a sustainable yet manageable manner, enabling them to be contributing members to their societies. Governments also now have taxable incomes to better service the community This eliminates the threats associated with predominantly carrying cash, as it reduces theft along with fraud. Small businesses can accept payments digitally, improving efficiency, and the ease of transactions encourages entrepreneurship and stimulates local economies These accounts are also essential for governments to distribute provisions and benefits to those in need, allowing disadvantaged groups such as people with disabilities to access social support and emergency relief more effectively

Banking regulations have been forced to evolve to match the pace of mobile banking development Most technology companies are required to obtain local licences, and their banking partners must comply with the regulatory frameworks of the countries in which they operate. There are requirements to report suspicious transactions for example, to the respective local authorities, aiding in strengthening the trust placed in mobile money platforms Over time, the regulatory framework will undoubtably build momentum further, entrenching this as the most sustainable financial development of our time. These platforms have also been a key factor in bridging the gap between gender inequality. In seven of the fifteen economies where more than 20 percent of adults have a mobile money account, women have equal or higher mobile money account ownership than men This is allowing women from impoverished and developing areas and communities to have more autonomy and independence, breaking from traditional norms that can be restrictive and archaic.

Global Findex 2021 data

As mobile money continues to be received across the continent, new developments and

are constantly being implemented The role

of mobile money in an individual’s financial

life varies depending on the owner. Some adults only have a mobile money account, and some have both a mobile money and traditional bank accounts. The Global Findex 2021 data show that mobile money account

owners now use their accounts for a range of purposes, such as to receive and make a variety of payments, as well as to save, store and borrow money This has been crucial to the development of the region as all these important systems have become much more secure and reliable, allowing for a more prosperous economy where individuals can carry out all kinds of business and banking

This puts Sub-Saharan Africa on par with many of its overseas peers, allowing the area to truly be a zone of economic affluence It has modernised economies and helped the region to move forward towards a digitally advanced and inclusive society. Although challenges remain such as mobile money’s reliance on smartphone apps over more accessible USSD-based feature phones its uptake, while not yet universal, has been significant enough to position Sub-Saharan Africa as a global leader in financial innovation. This marks a clear departure from past narratives that portrayed the continent as incapable of sustained growth and development It has shaped its own version of a digital economy that is sustainable for future generations to live in a more established society.

CARBON TAXES VS CAP-ANDTRADE

: WHICH WORKS BETTER?

by Donghoon .W

Climate change has now turned into one of the

most prominent issues of this century. With

scientists' records of dramatic shifts in the Earth's

climate system, radical changes in weather events

are being manifested, such as wildfires, hurricanes,

and unprecedented rises in temperatures; now,

there is a greater outcry against the causes of

climate change. Among the policy tools, those that

are the most effective regarding climate change

control are carbon taxes an

systems. Both are mechanisms that intend to guarantee reduction in levels of greenhouse gas emissions, though via different means

Understanding Carbon Taxes and Cap-and-Trade Systems

At their core, both carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems are mechanisms to put a price on carbon emissions, aiming to reduce the greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change However, they differ in how they regulate emissions and set prices A carbon tax is a fee levied on the carbon content of fossil fuels. This is a tax levied on the producers of carbon-intensive fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, whereby the

government would set a certain price per ton of carbon emitted The increased cost of emitting carbon provides incentive for industries and consumers to find cleaner alternatives, such as renewable energy sources or more energy-efficient technologies.

Carbon taxes have been put into place by countries such as Sweden, the UK, and Canada to reduce emissions and further invest in clean energy A cap-and-trade system limits, or "caps, " the total amount of greenhouse gases that may be emitted by industry during a given time period.

These permits or allowances are issued by the government in limited numbers, and

companies must purchase them in order to emit carbon. If a company reduces its emissions, it can sell its surplus allowances to other companies that are failing to meet

their limits, thus creating a market for carbon allowances whose price is determined

by supply and demand. Cap-and-trade systems have been established in the

European Union and California, where it has helped reduce emissions from large polluting sectors

Carbon Taxes: Stability and Certainty in Price

The carbon tax has some advantages, which

Furthermore, carbon taxes give a price

signal that businesses and consumers

cannot afford to turn a blind eye to In fact, having a sufficiently high price for carbon

emissions may drive innovation and

technological development, by forcing

firms into energy efficient processes or the development of renewable energies

According to economists, given that it

would be simple to apply, the carbon tax

should work well to internalise these

environmental costs, thus altering

behaviour across different sectors

However, one of the issues with the carbon tax is that it does indeed offer price certainty but not the level of reduction in terms of emissions. The actual quantity of the reduction in emissions depends on the level set by the government in terms of the tax. If the tax is set too low, companies might find it more economical to pay the tax than to clean up their emissions If the tax is set too high, it may cause economic disruption, such as the loss of jobs or passing costs on to consumers. Hitting the sweet spot in the amount of the tax is important to ensure that emissions are reduced without harming the economy

Cap-and

The cap-and-trade system is another approach, in which the focus is on the quantity of emissions rather than the price It gives a clear target for the reduction of greenhouse gases by capping the total amount of emissions. Over time, the cap is lowered to ensure

that emissions go down gradually This level of certainty in reduction of emissions is

especially important for meeting international climate targets, such as the goal under the

Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

It also creates an additional layer of flexibility: the ability to trade allowances between companies In this way, firms that find it cheaper to reduce their emissions can sell their surplus allowances to firms that face higher costs of reduction This creates a market incentive for businesses to adopt the most cost-effective ways of cutting

emissions, thus encouraging innovation It can also generate government revenue by auctioning allowances that could be reinvested into renewable energy projects or used to offset other taxes.

However, all cap-and-trade programs face particular issues For instance, the allocation of emission allowances - especially when done via "grandfathering, " (the process of assigning permits based on historic emissions), leads to inequity and inefficiency This often results in the free distribution of permits to industry, which diminishes the environmental ambition of the system Cap-and-trade markets can also be volatile as the price of allowances can fluctuate substantially due to changes in economic conditions and/or the stringency of the cap. Such volatility can complicate long-term investment decisions since businesses cannot plan with complete certainty about future costs

Comparing the Two Approaches

Both carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems share certain goals: lowering emissions and motivating the use of cleaner technologies They also boast their own lists of advantages and limitations. However, A carbon tax provides price certainty through a fixed price on carbon emissions but leaves the quantity of emissions uncertain. On the

other hand, cap-and-trade systems guarantee that emissions will never exceed a set limit but introduce uncertainty over the price of carbon allowances. The difference is crucial depending on policymakers' priorities, whether they focus on emission reductions or price stability

Economists argue that often, if not always, the best approach is a hybrid of the two. For instance, a cap-and-trade could establish a carbon price floor and ceiling to decrease volatility while continuing to ensure emissions are capped at a level compatible with climate goals. In this case, one would have both certainty in emission

reductions and more stable pricing for business.

Conclusion

Both policies have their strengths and weaknesses with both carbon tax and cap-andtrade Carbon taxes entail price stability and have an easy mechanism through which emission cuts are incentivised However, they do not offer the certainty of emission cuts that cap-and-trade does; conversely, cap-and-trade guarantees emissions reduction but introduces price uncertainty Ultimately, perhaps the best strategy for dealing with climate change will be to stop debating which policy is better and to adopt a mixture of strategies that can work with the intricacies of global emissions. With joint international action, tough regulation, and innovation, the world could take meaningful action against climate change and create a secure future for all

GREEN PATENTS – POWERING SUSTAINABLE

by Ali-Mansur .V

Green patents are a spec

patents that protect envir

beneficial inventions. Th

covers any technical solutio

solving environmental chal

example, a new carbo

method to reduce greenh

or an improved water filtra

for conservation (1) Jus

patent, green patents

inventor exclusive rights

profit from the invention –

20 years (2) This legal

ensures that investors can

the economic benefits

innovations, which in turn

more investment in

technology (1). Green pat

that these inventions

valuable, as well as import

future of our planet and wo

How Green Patent in Legal System

Legally, green patents func

same way as traditional pa

the investor must file an

This application contains

the invention is new and n

Then, if granted, the inve monopoly rights over the

specified invention Many

however, have introduc

programs designed to spe

process specifically f

technology, named

programs.

INNOVATION

Examples of Green Patents in Action

Real-world examples have shown how green patents have been leveraged by firms,

showing how firms have developed new technologies to not only increase their own profits, but to also to create a more sustainable future.

Toyota’s Hybrid Vehicle Patents: Toyota’s

early lead in hybrid cars was protected by a

suite of green patents on their Hybrid Synergy

Drive technology that they had created By

licensing some of these patents to Ford,

Toyota not only earned licensing fees but also helped a competitor adopt greener

technology (4) This collaboration sped up the

expansion of hybrid vehicles in the auto

industry. Toyota has since continued to use its

patent portfolio strategically; in 2019 it

announced that it would grant royalty-free

access to a myriad its hybrid and electric

vehicle patents to encourage the adoption of

low-emission vehicles within the market

Toyota’s case shows a balance between

protecting innovation and sharing it for greater impact, showing how green patents

can be used for higher profits by firm, but also sustainable growth in the market.

Tesla’s Open Patent Pledge: Electric car maker

Tesla took an unconventional approach to its

patents In 2014, CEO Elon Musk declared “All our

patents belong to you ” In a blog post, Musk

announced that Tesla would not initiate lawsuits

against anyone using Tesla’s patented technology

“in good faith” (5) Essentially, Tesla opened up its

patent portfolio for others to use freely. This move

was rooted in Tesla’s mission to accelerate the

transition to sustainable transport Musk reasoned

that it wouldn’t serve the mission if Tesla invented

great electric car technology but then built

“intellectual property landmines” to block others

from making EVs (5) This shows how even though

patents give inventors exclusive usage rights, it is

often these same patents that allow more widespread adoption of sustainable technologies into the market.

Renewable Energy Patent Portfolios:

Major advancements in renewable energy

have also been driven by aggressive

patenting. Companies like General Electric

(GE), Vestas, and Siemens have amassed

large patent portfolios in wind turbine

technology. These patents have been

valuable assets for these large firms,

leading to courtroom battles over who

invented what For example, GE won a $170

million jury verdict against Mitsubishi Heavy

Industries in a dispute over wind turbine

patents (6) This highlighted how

economically significant these green

patents can be, and how they can not only

drive profits and innovation but may also

lead to legal disputes between firms

The Future Role of Green Patents in Sustainability

Looking ahead, green patents are predicted to play an even more influential role in our transition to a more sustainable future Climate change and environmental degradation are urgent problems in need of being solved, and innovation is one of the key methods to help tackle those problems Patents, therefore, help fuel innovation by ensuring innovators have protection and incentive, allowing inventors to take risks and develop new inventions, secured by the fact that they will have exclusive rights if a discovery is made. We can expect more and more green patents in areas like renewable energy, energy storage, sustainable agriculture, electric transportation, and circular economy technologies in the coming years as sustainable plays a more crucial role. The rapid growth in green patent filings over the last two decades is likely to continue as governments and industries pour resources into “clean tech” innovation

In conclusion, green patents are a key piece of sustainable law and innovation. They provide a legal backbone that supports inventors who are building a greener world by granting them recognition, market advantage, and financial incentives for their innovations. The green patent system isn’t perfect, and further refining is needed to make sure it is equitable for all firms and truly maximises innovation. But as we strive for a balance between protecting innovation and promoting sustainable growth, green patents will undoubtedly continue to drive sustainable innovation forward They represent the idea that the same legal tools that once fuelled the industrial revolution can be repurposed to fuel a green revolution, supporting a future where technology and nature thrive together

SOURCES

(1) ESG SUSTAINABLE DIRECTORY

(2) SWEDISH INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OFFICE

(3) WIPO MAGAZINE

(4) TOYOTA

(5) CNN

(6) COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING

SECTION INTRODUCTION

by Rayan .H

Sustainable technology and

engineering is the discipline of

designing and implementing

products, processes, and systems

to the extent that they fulfill the

needs of society today, without

degrading the ability of coming

generations to fulfill their needs

This primarily entails low

environmental impact and

resource conservation. In

engineering, sustainability means

designing solutions that are energy efficient, use renewable resources and cut

down on waste and pollution. Every product and material has a life cycle, and

in engineering, it is crucial that every stage, from manufacture to disposal is considered. This urges the adoption of material usage reduction, improved

energy efficiency, and reuse or recycling of products that have reached the end of their lifespan.

Technological advancements play an instrumental role in fostering

sustainability Included amongst these innovations are renewable energy technologies, carbon capture technology and green manufacturing processes, each of which have high potential to reduce carbon footprints and conserve natural resources in the immediate future.

While integrating principles of sustainability into engineering and technology can benefit the environment, public health and social welfare is also enhanced considerably. Sustainable practices, such as reducing air and water pollution, can lead to improved air quality and more widespread access to clean water; this can facilitate a fall in respiratory conditions and an overall amelioration in health and sanitation By providing societies with necessities such as potable water and sustainable transport, we can bring about a rise quality of life by fostering healthier and more resilient societies, effectively ushering in an era defined by harmony between technological advancement and the safeguarding of our planet and its inhabitants

BEYOND PLASTICS, CONCRETE AND TEXTILES

by Rayan .H

As our planet’s climate grows increasingly

dire every day, sustainable materials have

never been more needed to support our already dwindling supply of resources.

While the traditional materials of plastic,

concrete and textiles have dominated

engineering and manufacturing industries

for decades, standing as the most widely

used materials globally, they also have a

myriad of detrimental impacts Plastic

pollution in the ocean is responsible for the

deaths of millions of sea creatures, cement

production accounts for 8% of global

carbon dioxide emissions, and textile

production lies at the forefront when

considering causes of water pollution and

excess consumption. To address these

pressing issues, researchers and engineers

are constantly striving to develop new

materials that are both highly practical

and sustainable. This article will discuss the

detriments of today’s materials, elucidates

the revolutionary substitutes, and the

various obstacles that we are likely to

encounter in adopting them.

Issues with Traditional

Materials

Plastic

Plastics are mainly derived from fossil

fuels, henceforth their extraction and

production releases carbon dioxide, which

results in worsening global warming Over

460 million metric tons of plastic is

produced on an annual basis, and a large

proportion of this amount finds its way

into oceans, causing the

deaths of aquatic life, and landfills, where plastic slowly degrades over thousands of years,

taking up valuable space and emitting greenhouse gas emissions.

Concrete's Carbon Footprint

Concrete is the world's most widely used

building material, but cement production

involved in the creation of concrete is

responsible for over 8% of global carbon

dioxide emissions, according to Fair

Planet; this is a footprint larger than most

countries Cement factories are also

known to release large amounts of sulfur

dioxide and carbon monoxide emissions, which can lead to acid rain, the

contamination of bodies of water, damage

to marine life and respiratory issues. Across

the globe, growing urbanization has led to

increases in concrete production,

amplifying its harm to the environment.

T

xtile

Waste and Environmental Damage

The clothing industry is contributing ten percent of the world's carbon footprint and twenty

percent of the wastewater pollution. Synthetic fabrics like polyester release microplastics that

contaminate water bodies and result in ecological harm; the ever-growing fast-fashion

industry and the production of clothing with a relatively short life span also massively

increases textile waste. Furthermore, according to the European Parliament, textile

production is responsible for over 20% of global water pollution from dyeing and finishing

products, as well as an exorbitant amount of water consumption; a single cotton t-shirt demands 2,700 liters of water, enough to meet a single person’s requirements for 2.5 years.

Innovation in Sustainable Packaging

An Overview on Biodegradable Plastics

+ Unlike traditional plastics, biodegradable plastics break down rapidly under certain environmental conditions; this allows for the generation of less waste material, and conserves valuable landfill space. Over 20 million metric tons of plastic litter ends up in the environment annually and biodegradable plastics are crucial when considering how to lower this number. Furthermore, as biodegradable plastics can be sourced from biological substances such as starch rather than fossil fuels, their production involves a reduction in carbon emissions by 80%, as well as a significant drop in energy consumption. This can have a plethora of positive impacts on our world, ranging from reduced global warming and climate change to the conservation of finite fossil fuel resources

– However, in many cases, bioplastics pose limitations, as many firms greenwash and aim to appeal to consumers by marketing biodegradable plastics, a large amount of these products are still produced using fossil fuels, therefore still contributing to carbon dioxide emissions and raw material depletion Furthermore, many plastics that are advertised as

biodegradable do not truly degrade; they instead fragment into smaller pieces This can result in a large increase in microplastic pollution, leading to a decline in the quality of water reserves, as well as human health. Many bioplastics also only degrade in certain conditions In the majority of landfills across the globe, these conditions may not be

known or met, resulting in waste bioplastics simply persisting for extended periods of

time, just like non-biodegradable plastic.

1. PLA – Polylactic Acid

+ PLA is produced from organic sources, such as cornstarch and sugarcane. According to TWI Global, PLA production involves 65% less energy and produces 68% fewer carbon dioxide emissions than the production of conventional plastics This can therefore reduce global warming and also conserve raw materials, as fossil fuels are not required in production Though the rate of degradation is typically slow and not entirely viable for disposal, PLA is easily recycled, incinerated to release energy for commercial usage, leaving no residue or toxic substances like plastic incineration may, or even composted.

All of the above effectively reduce the amount of waste generated to occupy landfills. – PLA, however, does have limitations that restrict its practicality PLA is more expensive than the majority of conventional plastics, has a lower heat resistance and a

comparatively low strength Disposal has to also be handled carefully; PLA that ends up in landfills isn’t often placed in the conditions required to stimulate sufficiently rapid

degradation, meaning that it will persist in landfills just as conventional plastics do.

Ensuring that PLA is recycled, incinerated or composted is often a difficult and

expensive task

PLA is already used in Nestlé’s sustainable food

packaging, as well as eco-friendly eyewear

frames developed by Newlight Technologies,

and has further potential for applications in:

Biomedical Engineering, for dissolvable

surgical structures, bone screws and drug

delivery systems

Automotive Engineering, where it may be

applied to interior car panels

3D Printing, for lightweight aerospace

components, medical implants and testing

prototypes in engineering

2. PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates)

+ PHA is a biodegradable plastic sourced

in construction

rials such as slag and fly ash. The

material also features a high compressive strength which is similar, and in some cases superior, to traditional concrete – However, the Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) technology that allows for this type of concrete to absorb carbon has many drawbacks; the CCUS process itself is extremely energy-intensive, often producing a quantity of emissions near to the

volume of CO2 absorbed by the concrete, negating the effect of carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere entirely Higher processing costs also drive up the price of carbon negative concrete, and because this material is only in its infancy, its availability is

limited.

Carbon negative concrete has potential for use in

Civil and Structural Engineering, for the construction of bridges, highways and high-rise

buildings to store and absorb carbon dioxide throughout its lifespan

Geotechnical Engineering, as a material used to build foundations involved in urban development

2. Self-Healing Concre

te

+ Concrete is known for its sensitivity to cracks, however, to an extent, the material is capable of healing autogenously Traditional concrete can be infused with bacteria to expedite the healing process, allowing it to repair cracks and improve structural integrity rapidly This can extend its lifespan significantly, reducing the amount of waste produced and the amount of concrete that needs to be manufactured This also means that filling or sealing cracks in concrete is no longer required, further reducing the number of resources used for maintenance. – Self-healing concrete is 10-30% more expensive than conventional concrete, and since the material makes use of relatively new technology, its supply is limited, and the expertise required to effectively use it is not yet widespread The self-healing process can also take several weeks, making it less effective for urgent repairs Specific environmental conditions are also required by the bacteria involved to effectively

effectively operate, for example, the correct humidity and temperature This can limit

effectiveness in certain regions with varying conditions

Self-healing concrete has already been implemented in Dutch highways and bridge construction, and further applications include:

Infrastructure Engineering, for bridges, tunnels, and highways to reduce repair costs

and extend the useful life of the materials

Hydraulic Engineering, for dams and water reserves to prevent structural failure due to cracks

Innovations in Sustainable Textiles

1. Mushroom Leather

+ Mushroom leather is produced using a mixture of discarded materials which are used to cultivate mycelium The mycelium is then harvested and processed to produce a final usable product similar to leather. Mushroom leather has no livestock involved; due to the need for grazing being eliminated, fewer greenhouse gases such as methane are produced Reduced deforestation is another benefit, as a smaller portion of land is required for mycelium production and processing than the grazing of animal livestock The growth of mushroom leather is also significantly more rapid than the production of traditional livestock-sourced leather

– Mushroom based leather products involve the use of plastic-based coatings that act as

reinforcements to increase strength and water resistance This increases the overall environmental footprint by increasing the use of finite raw materials associated with plastic production, increasing microplastic pollution in the case of improper disposal, and rendering the final leather product unable to biodegrade entirely. Other drawbacks include a higher cost and a higher susceptibility to moisture and water damage

With companies such as Adidas, Stella McCartney and Lululemon already incorporating

Mylo™ Mushroom Leather into their products, the use of this sustainable alternative to conventional leather is quickly rising, with its primary application lying in the fashion industry.

2. Pinatex

+ Pinatex is a leather derived from pineapple leaves, which are often considered waste in the agricultural industry Repurposing these into a useful material can help reduce the quantity of waste generated. Because pineapples tend to grow in tropical climates with low water requirements, Pinatex production requires substantially less water than the production of typical leather. Due to the lack of involvement of livestock, less greenhouse gas

SMART AGRICULTURE: AI’S ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE FARMING

by Aarav .D

maximise resource efficiency,

Artificial

Intelligence (AI) is

growing rapidly

and seems to be

emerging as a key element in the

modernisation of

agriculture With

the utility of

machine learning,

data analytics, and

automation, AI-

powered solutions

are helping farmers

make better

decisions,

in precision agriculture, predictive analytics for crop health and automated irrigation systems, AI is creating a path towards a sustainable and more productive agricultural future

Challenges in Traditional Agriculture

One major problem with conventional farming methods is the excessive use of pesticides Although they are necessary to avoid loss due to insects and disease, if used too frequently, they are counterproductive and instead hurt the ecosystem. These chemicals seep into groundwater and aquatic life and impact positive flora such as bees, as an example Most farmers resort to spraying chemicals on large areas unnecessarily

Another problem is the ineffective use of water Around 70% of the globe's freshwater is used by agriculture, but a huge amount of this is wasted due to outdated irrigation techniques. Most farmers still utilise flood irrigation, causing excessive run-off of water,

maximised. Organisations such as Google's DeepMind AI have been able to determine that innovative irrigation technologies can cut down water wastage by as much as 30%

without impacting crop productivity

The Future of AI in Agriculture

With the ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence technology, the range of its

applications within the agricultural sector is poised for considerable expansion. The future landscape of agriculture may encompass AI-driven autonomous tractors and harvesters capable of operating continuously with limited human oversight, thereby

improving efficiency and lowering labor expenses. Furthermore, AI systems integrated

with blockchain technology could significantly boost food traceability, allowing

consumers to gain information regarding the sustainability and origin of their food

products

Moreover, AI can be employed to enable urban

and vertical farming, where crops are grown in

indoor controlled environments through

hydroponics and aeroponics Vertical farms

have the potential to grow food in cities using

90% less water and minimal land use by

maximizing light, water, and nutrients

through AI-powered monitoring systems.

Conclusion

AI is transforming agriculture by solving some of its biggest challenges. Through

pesticide optimisation, water optimisation and reducing food waste, AI is making

farming smarter and greener As the world's food needs keep growing, the use of AI in

agriculture is no longer a luxury but a need. The future of farming is to embrace data-

driven, AI-enabled technologies that strike a balance between efficiency and sustainability With the capabilities of AI, we can make our agricultural system more resilient, productive, and environmentally-friendly that benefits both the farmer and the environment.

GREEN DATA CENTRES - THE

by Harman .S

increase, so does t

environm

. Data centres currently consume between 2% and 3% of the world’s electricity and could reach up to 13% by 2030 The

rapid boom of these facilities calls for more sustainable practices This is where green data centres come into play, a revolutionary approach that balances sustainability with technology

The Need for Green Data

Centres

Traditional data centres have substantial

energy consumption and significant carbon

emissions. These facilities often require

massive amounts of electricity to power their

servers, cooling systems, and infrastructure

Considerable amounts of heat is generated

by the high-powered computers that store

and manage the data Additionally, the heat

generated by servers require advanced

cooling solutions, further increasing energy

consumption This energy-intensive process

leads to increased emissions of greenhouse

gases and speeds up global warming. As

climate change awareness increases,

sustainable practices have never been more

needed in all industries. Green data centres

aim to mitigate these blows to the

environment by incorporating energy-

efficient technology, renewable energy

sources, and sustainable design. Unlike

traditional data centres, which often rely on

non-renewable energy such as fossil fuels,

discontinued by Microsoft in 2024, however, it

demonstrated the possibility of underwaater

data centres in the future, which would

increase sustainability, and decrease costs,

while taking up smaller space.

Sustainable practices

Beyond cooling and energy sourcing, green

data centres use sustainable design elements

to increase their environmental impact Green

data centres could use energy-efficient

infrastructure, such as high-density servers

and advanced power management systems,

which would ensure that the facility operates

at peak efficiency with minimal waste. High-

density servers would allow data centres to

perform more tasks in smaller spaces,

reducing the overall space the centre occupies.

Green data centres also use eco-friendly

construction techniques For example, some

data centres use green roofing solutions,

which help with insulation, reduce energy

consumption, and provide habitats for wildlife

The use of these materials in construction

lowers the carbon footprint during both the

setup and operation of the data centre.

Operating practices also play a significant role

in achieving sustainability. Google has

implemented real-time monitoring and

automated management that allow data

centres to adjust power usage based on what

is needed, avoiding unnecessary energy usage

by using AI This technology has successfully

reduced the cooling bill of Google's data

centres by 40% by ensuring that the facility

only consumes the necessary energy, further

lowering negative environmental impact

Moreover, responsible e-waste management

ensure that these facilities minimise their

environmental impact throughout their life By

recycling parts and responsibly managing

dangerous materials, green data centres

reduce landfill waste and positively contribute

SPACE-BASED SOLAR POWER

by Arham .H

How can we stop climate

change?

In today’s world, with climate change,

global warming and pollution, our

earth’s climate and atmosphere is

experiencing an evident decline. The

growing power consumption amongst

most families today is further crippling

our planet with almost 50,000

Kilograms of C02 emissions produced

annually, so our planet has never been

more desperate for clean, renewable

energy to abate our copious emissions.

Space-Based Solar Power (SBSP) is a

groundbreaking technology that overcomes the limitations of Earth-based solar energy

Operating in space, it collects uninterrupted solar power and transmits it wirelessly to

Earth, offering a continuous and efficient energy source If successfully developed, SBSP

could revolutionize global energy production and support a more sustainable future. However, this is not all that the process entails, as it is a convoluted procedure, and scientists still cannot comprehend how to execute it This article will outline the functions and scientific concepts behind SBSP, a brief historical overview, recent developments, future prospects and SBSP’s advantages and disadvantages

What is Space-Based Solar Power?

Though SBSP is a modern and innovative idea, the origins of its theory date back to 1968 when aerospace engineer Peter Glaser first proposed the idea. Since then, NASA has been conducting studies, experiments and tests to assure the feasibility and safety of the idea, so far, they have discovered that, in theory it is possible however they are struggling with large scale implementation of SBSP due to the hurdles that will be discusses in the challenges and limitations section of this article. Space-Based Solar Power produces energy by sending a satellite, with solar panels on it, to space, near the sun to receive solar energy and wirelessly transmit it to a receiver on earth. Many who don’t fully understand the concept of SBSP ask; Why must a satellite be positioned in space opposed to regular solar panels? This is because, for SBSP to maintain a continuous flow of energy it must be receiving solar energy around the clock which cannot be possible due to earths day and night cycle. However, the satellite will be unaffected by the day/night cycle as the satellite will be positioned in a way that it’s solar panels will constantly be absorbing energy.

How Does SBSP Work?

SBSP works by stationing a satellite in a geostationary orbit (Fixed over one place) over

the sun, 22,000 miles above earth. A

series of mirrors and lenses is then used

to focus rays of sunlight into the myriad

solar panels positioned on the satellite

Once the sunlight is collected, unlike

regular solar panels, the energy is not

converted into electricity, but rather

microwaves. This is done by turning the

energy into a Direct Current (DC) and

then converted into a specific radio

frequency to turn into microwaves These

microwaves are then received on earth by

a specially made antenna or other kind of

receiver

Advantages of SBSP

Continuous Energy: As previously explained, SBSP satellites are positioned directly in front of the sun so as to not be hindered by a day/night cycle, this means it can provide constant energy for everyone rather than having to save up energy in the day, to use in the night like regular solar power This is also better than sources of energy like coastal energy or geothermal energy because it is not region specific Higher Efficiency: Additionally, SBSP solar panels receive energy that can be almost 10 times more powerful than regular solar energy This is because regular

solar panels receive light that has had to come through several layers of our atmosphere and in this process, it is heavily filtered and dimmed meaning it loses much of its’s power however solar energy being given to SBSP satellites is pure and

unfiltered as it does not have to travel through the atmosphere To add to this, as

shown by the table below, SBSP produces the most power out of any renewable

energy sources, second only to energy generated by dams which have numerous

drawbacks

Global Reach: A large problem that many developing countries encounter is power usage and consumption, however with SBSP satellites can send energy anywhere in the world, not just to a powerplant but directly to someone’s home. This means that people or countries without power have a quick, simplistic solution.

NASA and Caltech: NASA has been

particularly clear in expressing their

interest in SBSP technology and are

extremely ambitious stating that they

expect small scale SBSP

implementation by 2030 and has

actively been spending billions in

testing and refining SBSP

China’s SBSP Plans: China has set ambitious goals to develop a fully

operational SBSP system by 2050 Researchers at the China Academy of Space

Technology (CAST) have been conducting experiments on wireless power

transmission, a key technology needed to transfer energy from space to Earth efficiently China has also built a ground-based test facility to refine microwave power transmission and improve the efficiency of energy beaming The country’s long-term vision includes constructing a space solar power station in geostationary orbit, capable of continuously supplying clean energy to Earth.UK and Europe’s Investment: Briefly explain the UK’s investments into SBSP research, including recent funding allocated to the development of space-based solar power systems.

Future Prospects and Feasibility

Technological Advancements: Technology is rapidly advancing, leafing to new discoveries in manufacturing processes, solar panel production and several companies are even working on making wireless energy transmission devices. If any of these come in to play SBSP will become a more attainable goal when there is more technical infrastructure available

Long-Term Benefits: Additionally, in future, space stations, space missions and

rovers like Curiosity can ALL be powered by SBSP. This will especially help NASA

with their rovers as the issue of battery depletion will be eliminated

Challenges to Overcome: Despite all the help that SBSP can do, it is still unfeasible

as of today due to mainly die to technological hurdles in transmitting energy, such

as;

1 Basic transmition: Despite knowing how to do so in theory we still do not possess the technology required to send energy across such a large distance

2. Accuracy: If we managed to transmit the energy, we would still be unable be accurate when sending the microwaves back down to earth as it would require immense precision, and the microwaves could spread leading to a delay in transmission.

When ca

n we expect it?

Most companies have set an expected date of 2050 to achieve full implementation of

SBSP at a large scale Though most organisations are currently at different stages of their research and development, they have unanimously agreed on this date for expected completion.

In conclusion, Space-Based Solar Power is a promising new pioneer in renewable energy, with the potential to revolutionize how we generate and distribute electricity By bypassing almost all of the limitations of other renewable energy sources, SBSP offers a promising solution to the world’s CO2 crisis However, significant roadblocks

still prevent us from accessing SBSP These range from; the high costs of launching

and maintaining satellites to the complexities of safely transmitting energy across vast distances. Despite these hurdles, continual research in the necessary hardware is paving the way for the development of SBSP satellites While it may take decades to overcome the technical obstacles, there are abundant benefits of SBSP such as a continuous and clean energy source. This makes it a compelling new source of energy While full-scale implementation is impossible today the developments being made today will inevitably lead us towards our goal of space-based-solar-power

INNOVATION FOR THE PLANET: HARNESSING TECH TO DRIVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

by Aarush .V.K

y is at the forefront leading efforts to mitigate climate change. Today, we will be exploring these technological advancements.

Climate Models

Climate models are computer simulations that use mathematical equations and models to predict how the Earth’s climate will change over time (e g , rainfall, global warming, sea levels, etc ) They consider various input factors to project output future climate scenarios. Typically, the variables used in a climate model, that determine the

output predictions are air temperature, pressure, density, water vapor content, and wind magnitude A popular climate model is the MIT En-Roads Climate Interactive

Simulator.

The above MIT En-Roads simulation predicts that advancements in renewable energy,

energy efficiency, and carbon removal, can help limit global warming to +1 2°C above pre-industrial levels

One of the significant benefits of climate models is that they can help policymakers make informed decisions about climate change mitigation and adaptation By

simulating different climate scenarios, climate models can help identify potential risks and heavily affected/vulnerable areas (due to global warming) and inform the development of policies and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build

resilience to climate change impacts

Climate models can also be used to inform planning and investment decisions in

various sectors such as agriculture, water management, and infrastructure For example, climate models have previously been used to predict changes in rainfall

patterns, allowing farmers to adjust crop planting schedules and irrigation systems accordingly Similarly, climate models can be used to identify areas at risk of flooding or sea level rise, informing decisions about the design and location of infrastructure projects

Overall, the use of climate models is an essential tool for enhancing sustainable development By providing insights into potential climate risks and informing policy and planning decisions, climate models can help us build a more resilient and sustainable future

Smart and Sustainable Agriculture. On November 15th, 2022, the world population

reached a milestone, 8 billion people In an increasingly populated world, we

require innovative solutions to feed masses of people, while utilizing scarce

resources efficiently, such as water, and optimizing allocations of farmland One

promising solution is smart agriculture, the intersection of technology and

agriculture, with a focus on minimizing environmental impacts. It involves the integration of various technologies such as sensors, drones, and artificial intelligence to monitor and manage crops and livestock

One of the significant benefits of smart agriculture is that it can help farmers make informed decisions based on real-time data For example, sensors can be used to measure soil moisture and nutrient levels, which can help farmers determine when to water and fertilize crops Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can also be used to monitor crops for signs of stress, disease, or pests.

Another benefit of smart agriculture is that it can help reduce waste and improve resource efficiency For example, precision irrigation systems can deliver water directly to plants’ roots, reducing water waste and improving crop yield Similarly, precision fertilizer application systems can apply nutrients only where they are needed, reducing fertilizer waste, and minimizing the risk of groundwater contamination

Overall, smart agriculture has the potential to increase food production while

minimizing the impact on the environment By using technology to optimize farming

practices, we can reduce waste, improve efficiency, and increase yields, all while

conserving scarce natural resources, all much required practices in a growing world

with more people to feed by the day

FUELING TOMORROW: CAN

ARTIFICIAL PHOTOSYNTHESIS TURN

SUNLIGHT INTO THE POWER WE NEED?

by Aaryan .S

the

s H

been identified as a promising contender for ‘the fuel of the future ’ however, sourcing it sustainably to be used as a fuel proved to be too difficult of a challenge to overcome. Until now. Imagine a world where sunlight, the life-giver to all things green, is harnessed not just for plants but to power our lives Picture sunlight cascading down, its golden rays splitting water, breathing life into clean fuels fuels that could one day drive our cars, heat our homes, and power our industries without polluting our skies This is the dream

of artificial photosynthesis, a revolutionary approach that aims to replicate what nature perfected over billions of years

As someone deeply invested in renewable energy development, artificial photosynthesis fascinates me because it aligns with my vision of a cleaner, more

sustainable world The idea of recreating nature ’ s most efficient process to address humanity’ s energy needs feels almost poetic In my opinion, the biggest opportunity lies

in coupling artificial photosynthesis with carbon capture technologies This not only addresses climate change but also creates a dual-purpose system that mitigates

emissions while producing clean fuel

At its heart, artificial photosynthesis is

about capturing sunlight’ s magic,

splitting water to release hydrogen, while

simultaneously transforming carbon dioxide, that notorious greenhouse gas,

into something more than just a villain in

the story of climate change [3] With the

help of cleverly designed catalysts,

researchers are attempting to tame this

unruly gas, turning it into fuels like

ethylene or methanol fuels that can

feed our hungry energy grid. But how

feasible is it in practice? This article

delves into recent scientific

advancements, technological challenges,

and the economic and environmental

implications of artificial photosynthesis

To understand artificial photosynthesis, it is helpful to look at its natural counterpart

Photosynthesis is an elegant process where plants absorb sunlight using chlorophyll,

the energy is then used to split water molecules (H2O) into oxygen (O2), protons (H+) and electrons Energy stored in molecules like ATP and NADPH is used to convert CO2,

O2 and H+ into glucose (C6H12O6) using enzymes through a series of steps called the Calvin Cycle Scientists aim to replicate this process using precisely engineered systems

that produce solar fuels, like hydrogen, ethylene or methane, to be used for energy production or as industrial feedstocks, instead of glucose

The process of typical artificial photosynthesis systems can be broken down into 4 key parts

Photocatalysts are materials that absorb light and convert it to chemical or electrical

energy, the chlorophyll of this system Semiconductors like titanium oxide (TiO2),

Gallium Nitride (GaN), or metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are commonly used

photocatalysts in artificial photosynthesis

·When the photocatalyst absorbs sunlight, electrons are excited to higher energy

levels which leave behind positively charged holes This separation of charges creates

the potential for the chemical reactions required to produce H2 and O2 from H2O

molecules

Splitting H2O molecules:

Splitting water into O2, H+ and electrons is crucial as it produces hydrogen, and the electrons required to reduce CO2

Excited electrons from the photocatalysts reduce H2O molecules to produce H2 gas, while the positively charged holes oxidise water to produce O2

This reaction can be summarised as:

CO2 Reduction:

2H2O + Sunlight -> 2H2 + O2

After the water is split, the system directs electrons toward converting CO2 into another form of fuel. This step is the ‘Calvin Cycle’ of the process, producing energydense compounds such as methane (CH4), ethylene (C2H4), or methanol (CH3OH)

Specialised catalysts are used to achieve this reaction For example, recent advancements have involved using MOFs combined with amino acids to increase efficiency

However, the fuels produced from the reaction have significant CO2 emissions when burned therefore, they are mainly used as chemical feedstock for producing other materials instead

Capturing sunlight with photocatalysts:

Storage and utilization of fuels:

Artificial photosynthesis differs significantly

from natural in the end-product fuel, while

natural photosynthesis produces glucose to be stored in the plant for later use, the

hydrogen produced in artificial is directly

used in a hydrogen fuel cell to produce electricity

There are methods to store hydrogen, for

example, compressed gas or a liquid,

however, they are extremely energy

intensive, leading to major loss of energy for power generation

Above is an illustration of the process of artificial photosynthesis

Some of the biggest steps towards advancing artificial photosynthesis are being taken

at the University of Michigan. One of these is a device developed using gallium nitride

nanowires on a silicon substrate to convert CO2 and H2O into ethylene more

efficiently Commonly used in the chemical industry, it was produced with a conversion efficiency of 61% and showed long-term stability, running for over 100 hours without degradation.

Despite the significant efforts being made globally, the process faces technical hurdles. The first is efficiency. In current systems, only 1–2% of the energy from sunlight is converted to usable energy For reference, most residential solar panels have an efficiency of 20% For the process to be commercially viable, efficiency must increase drastically.

Cost is also a major setback for feasibility as the materials used as photocatalysts are typically very expensive This raises the cost of energy production significantly, ranging from $10 to $20 per kg of hydrogen produced. For context, grey hydrogen produced from traditional steam methane costs $1 to $2 and green hydrogen from electrolysis costs $4 to $6 per kg of hydrogen

We don’t know if the vision of hydrogen-powered cars, carbon-neutral industries and self-reliant homes that artificial photosynthesis holds will ever come true Artificial photosynthesis is still in its infancy, a seedling nurtured by breakthroughs from institutions like the University of Michigan, where researchers have achieved conversion efficiencies as high as 61% Yet, this budding technology faces significant challenges before it can bloom on a global scale Its current efficiency, a mere 1–2% compared to the 20% of solar panels, and the high cost of materials like titanium dioxide and gallium nitride, are hurdles that need overcoming Scaling these systems is like trying to grow a delicate plant in barren soil it requires precision, innovation, and patience. However, with advancements such as more resilient catalysts and systems

running over 100 hours without

faltering, the roots of progress are

spreading If nurtured with

continued investment and

ingenuity, artificial photosynthesis

could one day flourish into a

transformative solution for our

energy needs. So, we stand on the

brink, looking forward to a future

where sunlight can be more than

just a source of light and warmth.

It could become our ticket to a

world free of fossil fuels, where we extract energy not from the depths of the Earth but from the skies above As researchers toil away, perfecting their artificial leaves and sunharvesting systems, the question remains: Can we turn sunlight into the fuel that powers our future, or will we forever be chasing the sun?

In the words of the great explorers before us, we’ve set sail into unknown waters, seeking new ways to power our lives sustainably Whether artificial photosynthesis can deliver on its promise is yet to be seen, but the pursuit itself embodies humanity’s endless curiosity and our undying hope for a better, cleaner world

INNOVATION IN SUSTAINABILITY

SECTION INTRODUCTION

by Atharva .P

Innovation in sustainability

drives the transformative ideas

and technologies reshaping

how we live, create, and

consume ensuring progress

today without compromising

tomorrow. This field merges

cutting-edge science,

disruptive design, and forward-

thinking policies to tackle

global challenges, from climate

change to waste reduction,

while unlocking new

opportunities for sustainable

growth

In energy, breakthroughs like solar glass are redefining renewable

infrastructure In transport, sustainable aviation pioneers cleaner ways to connect the world Even in consumer goods, radical recycling like

turning discarded gum into fashion proves that innovation can turn

waste into value. Each solution shares a common thread: reimagining

systems to be regenerative, efficient, and inclusive by design

Beyond technology, sustainability innovation thrives on collaboration

artists like Coldplay championing green tours, engineers revolutionizing

air travel, and urban designers repurposing litter into style Together,

these advances prove that the most impactful innovations don’t just

reduce harm they inspire a cultural shift, where sustainability becomes

the norm, not the exception.

By pushing boundaries across industries, innovation in sustainability isn’t

just solving problems it’s building a world where environmental

stewardship and human ingenuity thrive together

THE GUMSHOE REVOLUTION: TURNING STREET LITTER INTO STREET STYLE

by Atharva .P

Imagine walking through a livel

more sustainable world. In the

making waves in sustainability: footwea

idea not only turns unsightly

reshaping urban spaces and advancing sustainable practices

A Sticky Problem Becomes a Stylish

Solution

Urban areas often face their fair share of

challenges, and one persistent issue is the

discarded chewing gum that defaces

sidewalks and public spaces. In Amsterdam

a city renowned for its progressive

environmental efforts the problem of gum

litter has sparked creative solutions in waste

management. Collaborating with

sustainability company Gumdrop and

fashion brand Explicit, local innovators have

introduced the “Gumshoe” in 2018. Far from

being just a quirky novelty, these shoes

represent a meaningful step toward

reducing urban waste while rethinking

sustainable fashion

The concept behind the Gumshoe is straightforward yet ingenious: collect discarded gum

from city streets, process and recycle it, and integrate it into the soles of trendy sneakers

By doing so, this initiative transforms problematic waste material into a valuable asset, proving that even stubborn urban debris can be repurposed as part of the solution.

From Gum on Streets to Glamour on Feet

The journey begins on Amsterdam’s streets, where chewing gum once considered an eyesore is gathered for recycling Using specialized cleaning and processing methods, this sticky waste is converted into raw material suitable for shoe production. The gum undergoes decontamination to remove impurities and residual flavours before being transformed into a durable, flexible substance ideal for crafting footwear soles

Win-Win for Cities and Sustainability

What makes this process truly remarkable is its

dual benefit: it addresses both the

environmental problems caused by gum litter

and the reliance on conventional materials used

in shoe manufacturing Traditional production

methods often depend on petroleum-based

components that contribute to pollution and

deplete non-renewable resources By replacing

these materials with recycled gum, the

Gumshoe initiative offers a sustainable approach

that promotes waste reduction and resource

conservation

The introduction of shoes made from recycled chewing gum marks a significant victory for

both urban environments and global sustainability efforts. Here’s why this innovation is

gaining international acclaim:

Environmental Benefits: Approximately 1 5 million kilograms of waste chewing gum is

produced by the Netherlands every year The production process diverts this large

amount of chewing gum away from landfills and public spaces. This not only reduces pollution but also decreases the carbon footprint associated with conventional shoe manufacturing The recycled gum material serves as an eco-friendly alternative that lessens dependence on fossil fuels and minimizes plastic waste. Economic and Social Impact: The Gumshoe project has created new opportunities for local economies by establishing a market for recycled materials It fosters job creation while encouraging community participation residents can contribute directly by collecting discarded gum for recycling efforts. Moreover, the collaboration between government entities, sustainability experts, and designers highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing environmental challenges Innovative Design: Beyond its environmental advantages, the Gumshoe showcases modern design principles focused on durability, comfort, and style These shoes demonstrate that sustainable products can be both functional and fashionable The project has also inspired interest within the fashion industry, prompting designers to explore unconventional eco-friendly materials in their collections.

Community Spirit Fuels Creativity

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Gumshoe initiative is its emphasis on community involvement and creative thinking. In Amsterdam, this project transcends recycling it symbolizes civic pride and reflects the city’s forward-thinking ethos Residents are encouraged to participate by gathering used gum, which not only keeps neighbourhoods clean but also contributes to a transformative process. Workshops and community events have been organized to educate locals about recycling practices and sustainability concepts These gatherings turn the act of discarding gum into an engaging activity that fosters innovation while inspiring other cities worldwide to rethink their waste management strategies At its core, the Gumshoe project embodies the belief that individuals can drive meaningful change one step at a time

Overcoming Challenges on the Path to Sustainability

Like any groundbreaking endeavour, creating shoes from recycled chewing gum came with

its share of hurdles. Technical obstacles such as ensuring the durability of recycled gum

material and seamlessly integrating it with other shoe components required extensive

research and development efforts Engineers and designers worked diligently to refine

material properties so that the final product could withstand daily wear without

compromising its eco-friendly promise.

Financial limitations and scalability posed additional challenges Transforming an unconventional waste product into a viable commodi

ongside new supply chains and manufacturing methods. Nevertheless, throu

ent collaboration and shared commitment to environmental responsibili

gradually overcome The success of Gumshoe serves as a te

combined with dedication can lead to i

A Model for Future Innovation

The influence of the Gumshoe project extends far beyond Amsterdam’s borders it has sparked global conversations about upcycling everyday waste into valuable resources This

pioneering approach challenges traditional notions about waste management while

encouraging industries to adopt more sustainable practices. Particularly within fashion,

there’s growing momentum as designers embrace eco-friendly materials alongside greener

production techniques

As cities around the world grapple with issues like waste disposal and environmental degradation, initiatives like Gumshoe offer replicable models for urban sustainability. By

leveraging community engagement alongside innovative design and engineering, this

project demonstrates how even mundane materials can be transformed into symbols of progress.

Looking Ahead: Steps Toward

Sustainability

The journey of creating footwear from

recycled chewing gum is far from complete

With ongoing advancements in recycling

technology coupled with increased support

from public institutions and private

organizations alike, there’s immense

potential for expanding this concept to other types of everyday waste materials

For now, Gumshoe stands as a powerful

reminder that urban landscapes are

brimming with untapped resources waiting

to be reimagined It challenges us all to

reconsider what we define as waste while

finding beauty and utility in unexpected

places Every step taken in these shoes

represents progress toward cleaner cities

and a more sustainable planet.

Selective Absorption of UV and Infrared by

Transparent PV window

Researchers at Michigan State University

developed the first fully transparent solar glass

panel in 2014 They developed a new type of solar

concentrator that when placed over a window

creates solar energy while allowing people to

actually see through the window. It is called a

transparent luminescent solar concentrator

(TLSC) and can be used on buildings, cell phones

and any other device that has a clear surface. The

TLSC is composed of organic salts that are

designed to absorb specific invisible UV and

infrared light wavelengths, which then glow as

another invisible wavelength. This new

wavelength is then guided to the edge of the

window plastic, which thin PV solar cell strips

convert it into electricity.

Diagram: The organic salts absorb UV and infrared, and emit infrared

radiation -processes that occur

outside of the visible light spectrum, so that it appears transparent

This solar harvesting system uses small organic molecules to absorb specific nonvisible

wavelengths of sunlight These materials are tuned to pick up just the ultraviolet and the

near infrared wavelengths that then glow at another wavelength in the infrared The

glowing infrared light is guided to the edge of the plastic where it is converted to electricity by thin strips of photovoltaic solar cells Because the materials do not absorb or

emit light in the visible spectrum, they look exceptionally transparent to the human eye

Many manufacturers refer to this genre as transparent photovoltaic glass (PV glass). The PV layer does not need to be implemented in glass or plastic, but rather could appear as a thin film deposited on the surface, or even a liquid solution

Solar glass has benefits over solar panels

A key advantage of solar glass is that it takes up less space than traditional solar

panels In cities with lots of buildings and limited space, setting up traditional solar

panel installations is difficult. Transparent solar panels, on the other hand, can be

widely fitted even in cramped cities, helping buildings and cities meet net zero

climate goals You could turn nearly every surface of a building or landscape into a solar array and generate power right where you use it.

Applications

Photovoltaic glass can also be integrated into other applications like:

Vehicle-Integrated Photovoltaics - think automobiles, railroad, marine vessels, truck fleets, aircraft and even spacecraft powered by sunlight

City-Integrated Photovoltaics - where the PV smart glass powers IoT streetlights, IoT traffic lights, or harvests sunlight incident on our roads and pavements.

Device-Integrated Photovoltaics - From smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart wearables like smart spectacles, smart jewellery, to portable water-desalination units and medical diagnostic devices for rural areas in developing countries.

Conclusion

To conclude, just one hour of sunlight could power earth for one whole year. That's the promise of solar glass - a cutting-edge technology that could capture this endless energy and change the way we build sustainable infrastructure and generate power

This technological marvel could give our cities the ability to harvest their own energy needs in the future.

THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE

AVIATION

by Shreya .K

Aircraft Renewal

According to IEA, 2.5% of our energy-related

carbon footprint in 2023 came from

aviation While this may not seem like

much, the improvement of airplane

efficiency is going at a much slower rate

than the industry is growing, meaning

these emissions are only set to grow As we

try to move towards a carbon neutral

society, the search for sustainable

transportation becomes critical, especially

for airplanes Sustainability should not have

to mean the end of globalization through

travel after all! So, this article will be looking

at upcoming sustainable technologies,

especially fuels, which could make

environmentally friendly aviation a reality

In the ‘Climate Rising’ Podcast, Robin Ridel

at McKinsey & Co. outlines a few main

‘levers’ where Aviation could potentially

decarbonize: Aircraft Renewal , operational

efficiency, Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs),

Novelty Technologies, and Carbon Offsets

We’ll look into all of these factors and how

technology is helping us achieve carbon

neutrality.

The lifespan of an aircraft is about 30 years, so with each generation of aircraft there’s

about a 20% increase in efficiency, and therefore sustainability This is often due to advancements in engines, which become more efficient, meaning fuel usage decreases, therefore decreasing emissions. New engines can be up to 25% more efficient than older counterparts- perhaps 30 years from now, a quarter of fuel could be saved per flight! LOT for example uses the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Boeing 737 MAX 8, which have several environmental advantages The 737 is 7% lighter than its predecessors for example, and uses split scimitar winglets which save a further 2% of fuel. The low weight of the aircrafts in general allow for minimal fuel consumption, consuming 20-25% less fuel than its predecessors; these newer models also have “the ability to recycle a significant proportion of the components at the end of the engine's life ”

The good thing about SAFs, and why they are more likely to be part of sustainable aviation, is that they are ‘drop in fuels’ , which can be easily used with our airplanes’

current engines Unlike hydrogen-based solutions, which would require tanks and compression technology, we wouldn’t have to undergo the expenses of building

completely new airplane infrastructure Scaling up SAF will certainly take time, due to limited biomass sources Pricing compared to regular jet fuels could also prove to be a

challenge; as highlighted by Ridel, aviation is a ‘price sensitive’ , ‘competitive’ industry, so if ticket prices go up to cover fuel costs, competition becomes a big issue. But we must remain optimistic! SAFs are becoming more and more widely accepted in industry In 2009 for example, “ASTM approved in June 2009 with a 50% blend limit ” of the aforementioned SPK. According to IEA “by 2030, aviation and shipping [will be] responsible for more than 75% of new biofuel demand ” The ReFuel EU was another huge milestone, where ‘aviation fuel suppliers will have to blend increasing amounts of

SAF with kerosene, starting with a 2% minimum blend in 2025, and rising to 70% in 2050. ’

While it’s ‘up in the air’ (haha) about where our feedstock for SAF could realistically come from, “to ensure the security, availability, and sustainability of SAF, a diverse array

of feedstocks is necessary. ”

Novelty Technologies

This is where the most unique solutions come from, essentially redesigning aspects of

the aircraft to maximise efficiency An example of this is the testing of Blended Wing

Bodies, by removing the main tube section, leaving just the wings of the aircraft, which

could reduce fuel emissions by up to 50%. Another aspect of this is the testing of hydrogen fuel to decarbonise. Hydrogen burns clean, and won’t release CO2- only

water vapour, making it seem ideal for transport so high in our atmosphere If Hydrogen were to become an option, we could either combust it, use it in a fuel cell, or

create a hybrid model. Hydrogen is a difficult challenge to overcome: it’s light, but hard to compress and store, and would require new, bulky machinery which adds weight to the aircraft Furthermore, Hydrogen itself is difficult to acquire: it usually comes from natural gas, or is taken from the electrolysis of water, both of which use non-renewable fossil fuels as a feedstock, or to provide electricity. However, this doesn’t completely remove Hydrogen as an option, especially when used alongside SAF Hydrogen could have beneficial applications in short-range aviation, delivery drones, and domestic transport. As for acquiring it, green Hydrogen made with renewables; or pink Hydrogen made from nuclear are both examples of how Hydrogen is becoming more and more of a sustainable option

An example of advancements in both these examples would be JetZero’s work on ‘Pathfinder’ , which plans to utilize the Blended Wing Body model, and Hydrogen power, where the shape of the Blended Wing Body allows for enough space for machinery needed to store hydrogen. According to Aero report, “a scaled-down demonstration model of Pathfinder is already under construction and is scheduled to take its maiden flight in 2027 Pathfinder’s commercial debut is planned for 2030 ” , which is huge news! Imagining air transport as being so different in the near future is truly exciting

COLDPLAY X SUSTAINABILITY

by Alina .A.K

When I attended Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres tour this past January, I was struck

by the seamless integration of sustainability in every facet of the show. As an attendee,

I could see firsthand how the band was pushing the boundaries of what is possible in

terms of making live music tours as eco-friendly as possible Coldplay’s efforts went far beyond what I expected and created an experience that felt profoundly different from the typical concert

The Music of the Spheres tour pledged to reduce its carbon emissions by a staggering

50% compared to previous tours This ambitious goal was achieved by cutting down consumption, reducing waste, and working closely with suppliers and partners to reduce their emissions. One of the standout features of the tour was the collaboration with DHL as the Official Logistic Partner. DHL, leaders in sustainable transport and logistics, supported the tour by minimising emissions from freight and transportation

This involved everything from using advanced biofuels in the air to electric vehicles on land. It felt like Coldplay wasn’t just putting on a show; they were actively working with the best partners to ensure their impact was as small as possible

Despite their best efforts to reduce emissions, Coldplay took further action by funding carbon offsetting projects that would more than compensate for the CO2 generated by the tour I was particularly impressed by their pledge to "drawdown" more CO2

than the tour produced This included supporting a variety of projects, from

reforestation to renewable energy initiatives. For every ticket sold, they pledged to plant and protect a tree for life one small act that would have a lasting positive effect on the planet

Another aspect that stood out to me was the thoughtful design of the stage and show effects The stages were built using lightweight, low-carbon materials, many of which could

be reused or recycled at the end of the tour Additionally, the LED wristbands worn by fans were made from 100% compostable, plant-based materials. The production of wristbands

was reduced by 80%, and the wristbands were reused by collecting, sterilising, and recharging them after each show

Special effects were also handled with

. The confetti us

during the show was biodegradable, and new-generation sustainable pyrotechnics reduced harmful chemicals and required less explosive charge It was impressive to see how even the smallest aspects of the show were considered through an eco-friendly lens.

Coldplay also encouraged fans to be part of the sustainability efforts They introduced the SAP app, which promoted low-carbon transport options to and from shows. Fans who committed to using low-carbon travel were rewarded with discount codes, making it easier to choose greener transportation options The tour worked closely with venues to set up recycling programs, and the Ocean Cleanup initiative helped remove waste from some of the world’s most polluted rivers, preventing it from reaching the ocean. They used this waste to make their vinyls for their new album

The Music of the Spheres tour was an unforgettable experience not just because of the amazing music and energy but because of the tangible efforts made to protect the environment From the sustainable materials and renewable energy powering the show to the carbon offsetting initiatives and fan engagement, Coldplay made sustainability an integral part of the concert. It was clear to me that they weren’t just playing music they were creating a movement If more tours could embrace such an eco-conscious mindset, the future of concerts could look greener

AKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Editing Team

Lead Editor: Ali-Mansur V (Yr 11)

Editor of Sustainable Law and Finance: Mahdi .K (Yr 11)

Editor of Sustainable Technology and Engineering: Rayan .H (Yr 11)

Editor of Innovation in Sustainability: Atharva P (Yr 12)

Club Leadership

Aarush K, President of DC Sustainability Club (Yr 12)

Aaryan .S, Vice-President of DC Sustainability Club (Yr 12)

Ali-Mansur V, Vice-President of DC Sustainability Club (Yr 11)

Special Thanks

Mr Barker, Teacher/Mentor A heartfelt thank you to all our article writers this magazine would not have been possible without your dedication.

Dubai College Sustainability Magazine

THE DUBAI COLLEGE

SUSTAINABILITY MAGAZINE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

OPENING REMARKS

SUSTAINABLE LAW AND FINANCE

SECTION INTRODUCTION

THE RISE OF GREEN BONDS –

FUNDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

CHINA

APPLE

CHALLENGES & CRITICISMS

THE FUTURE OF GREEN BONDS

SOURCES

HOW HAS MOBILE MONEY MADE

SUB

-SAHARAN AFRICA

FINANCIALLY SUSTAINABLE?

CARBON TAXES VS CAP-ANDTRADE

: WHICH WORKS BETTER?

Carbon Taxes: Stability and Certainty in Price

GREEN PATENTS – POWERING SUSTAINABLE

by Ali-Mansur .V

How Green Patent in Legal System

INNOVATION

Examples of Green Patents in Action

SOURCES

SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING

SECTION INTRODUCTION

BEYOND PLASTICS, CONCRETE AND TEXTILES

by Rayan .H

Plastic

T

xtile

te

SMART AGRICULTURE: AI’S ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE FARMING

by Aarav .D

Conclusion

GREEN DATA CENTRES - THE

Sustainable practices

SPACE-BASED SOLAR POWER

How Does SBSP Work?

Advantages of SBSP

n we expect it?

INNOVATION FOR THE PLANET: HARNESSING TECH TO DRIVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

FUELING TOMORROW: CAN

ARTIFICIAL PHOTOSYNTHESIS TURN

SUNLIGHT INTO THE POWER WE NEED?

INNOVATION IN SUSTAINABILITY

SECTION INTRODUCTION

THE GUMSHOE REVOLUTION: TURNING STREET LITTER INTO STREET STYLE

THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE

AVIATION

COLDPLAY X SUSTAINABILITY

AKNOWLEDGEMENTS