Important Innovations

Sustainable Breweries Source:  Stock Photo A Toast to a Cleaner Environment Beer, especially craft beers, are a growing, energy intensive industry.  The number of US breweries grew 200% in the past decade and production has increased 12% per year. Saving the Planet Per 6-Pack To cut greenhouse emissions and save energy, a growing number of breweries are investing in sustainable production technologies.  But will it pay off?  New research by Indiana University says yes it will.  A majority of US beer drinkers are willing to pay the extra cost.  In fact, according to the University's survey, 59% are willing to pay extra.  On average, sustainable beer production practices tack on an extra $1.30 per 6 pack. Sustainable Innovation Innovative, energy saving, sustainable practices now being implemented by a growing number of breweries include solar power, onsite wastewater treatment plants, insulated brewery vessels and recaptured steam from the brewing process.  Beer is one

CO² into Plastic with No Greenhouse Gas Emissions Source:  Stock Image - Green Plastic University of Toronto Green Research University of Toronto scientists have created a copper catalyst that converts CO² into ethylene to produce plastic.  There are no greenhouse gases, such as methane, output and emissions.  This new technique could lead to the green production of commonly used plastics along with sequestering greenhouse gas through carbon capture technology. How It Works - The "Magic Metal" At the heart of the process is the CO² reduction reaction.  An electrical current converts CO² into other chemicals.  The chemical reaction is triggered by a catalyst composed of copper. Copper is the key to this.  Scientists call it the "magic metal".  Only copper can produce ethylene which is used to produce the most common form of plastic - polyethylene plastic. "Green" Plastic Future This is a promising, new, green and sustainable way to make plastic.