Artificial Plants Purify Air & Generate Electricity, Renewable Fuels From Kitchen Waste, And Acer Unveils Latest AI Innovations At GITEX Global 2024

Researchers are making strides in sustainability by developing artificial plants that can purify indoor air while generating electricity, a breakthrough that could revolutionize eco-friendly living spaces.

In parallel, innovations in renewable fuels are emerging, with kitchen waste being repurposed into cleaner energy, paving the way for greener fuel alternatives.

Adding to this wave of technological advancement, Acer is set to reveal its latest innovations and AI-powered solutions at GITEX GLOBAL Largest Tech & Startup Show in the World 2024, showcasing cutting-edge technologies that promise to shape the future of smart living and energy efficiency.

Researchers Create Artificial Plants That Purify Indoor Air, Generate Electricity

Americans spend an estimated 90% of their time indoors, whether at work, school, or home, making indoor air quality a significant factor in overall health and well-being. However, most conventional air purification systems are not only expensive but also cumbersome to maintain, requiring frequent cleaning or filter replacement to function effectively. Addressing these challenges, researchers from Binghamton University have developed an innovative solution that could revolutionize how we clean the air we breathe—artificial plants that not only purify air but also generate electricity.

From Biobatteries to Artificial Plants

Binghamton University Professor Seokheun Choi "Sean" Choi, along with Ph.D. student Maryam Rezaie, is repurposing their research on bacteria-powered biobatteries to create these artificial plants. Originally working on biobatteries that could be ingested or otherwise applied to power small devices, the duo realized the potential to apply their work in a completely different context—indoor air purification.

The artificial plants they designed feed off carbon dioxide, emit oxygen, and even generate a small amount of power. Their work, recently published in the journal Advanced Sustainable Systems, outlines a concept that could have wide-ranging implications for improving indoor air quality and sustainability.

"Especially after going through COVID-19, we know the significance of indoor air quality," said Choi, a faculty member in the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science, Binghamton University's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He explained how poor indoor air quality stems from multiple sources such as building materials, carpets, cooking fumes, and outdoor infiltration, all of which can release harmful toxins and build up carbon dioxide levels over time.

A Leaf That Cleans the Air and Generates Power

Using five biological solar cells powered by photosynthetic bacteria, Choi and Rezaie initially built an artificial leaf “for fun.” But the project quickly evolved when they realized the technology’s potential. Their first prototype—a plant with five leaves—was tested for its ability to capture carbon dioxide and generate oxygen. Though the electricity output is currently modest at 140 microwatts, the potential for improvement is significant.

Choi’s goal is to refine the technology to produce more than 1 milliwatt of power, enough to charge small electronic devices such as cell phones. He also envisions integrating energy storage systems like lithium-ion batteries or supercapacitors, allowing the plants to store energy for later use.

“Many sources can generate very toxic materials, like building materials and carpets. We breathe out and breathe in, and that builds up carbon dioxide levels. Also, there are risks from cooking and infiltration from the outdoors,” Choi explained. By capturing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, these artificial plants offer a dual benefit for improving air quality.

Future Enhancements and Household Applications

While current power generation is a secondary benefit, Choi sees potential for further enhancement. Future upgrades could include integrating multiple species of bacteria to ensure long-term viability and developing efficient systems to minimize maintenance, such as automated water and nutrient delivery.

Ultimately, Choi envisions a future where these artificial plants become common in households. Their ability to improve indoor air quality, reduce maintenance needs, and generate usable electricity could make them an attractive alternative to traditional air purifiers.

“With some fine-tuning, these artificial plants could be a part of every household,” Choi said. “The benefits of this idea are easy to see.”

As air quality becomes an increasingly important issue, especially in urban environments, innovations like these artificial plants offer a glimpse into the future of sustainable living. Combining air purification, carbon capture, and renewable energy generation, these bacteria-powered plants represent a promising step toward healthier indoor environments and a more sustainable future.

https://techxplore.com/news/2024-10-artificial-purify-indoor-air-generate.html

The Future of Renewable Fuels From Kitchen Waste

As sustainability becomes a driving force across industries, Restaurant Technologies is leading the charge in the food service sector by revolutionizing how used cooking oil is managed and recycled. With an expansive network that spans more than 45,000 restaurants, grocers, hotels, casinos, universities, and hospitals across the U.S., the company’s innovative practices are drastically reducing waste and emissions, all while creating a more efficient, eco-friendly system for managing cooking oil.

Each year, Restaurant Technologies prevents 300 million pounds of used oil from ending up in landfills and eliminates oil-related plastic and cardboard waste that would otherwise occupy 7.5 million cubic feet of landfill space. CEO Jeffrey (Jeff) Kiesel recently spoke to Innovation & Tech Today about the significant role these efforts play in reducing environmental impact and shaping a greener future.

The Impact of Oil Recycling

At the heart of Restaurant Technologies’ sustainability efforts is its automated cooking-oil management system. As Kiesel explains, the company delivers fresh cooking oil in bulk to its customers, manages and optimizes their oil usage, and then collects the used oil for recycling. The used oil is transported from commercial kitchens back to Restaurant Technologies’ depots, where it is refined and transformed into renewable fuel.

“In 2023, we recycled 314.1 million pounds of waste oil, saved eight million cubic feet of landfill space, and avoided 72.3 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions,” Kiesel shared. “Through proper oil management, delivery, and recycling, fryer oil can be refined and reused as biofuel, creating a circular economy.”

This innovative approach not only reduces the environmental footprint of restaurants and other commercial kitchens, but it also helps them operate more sustainably by decreasing the need for plastic and cardboard packaging while optimizing oil usage.

From Waste Oil to Renewable Fuel

One of the most exciting aspects of Restaurant Technologies’ recycling program is its ability to transform waste oil into renewable diesel and biodiesel. Once collected, used cooking oil is filtered to create feedstock oil, which is then processed into sustainable fuel. By using recycled cooking oil rather than dedicated food crops, the company is reducing the competition for agricultural resources while creating a cleaner alternative to petroleum-based diesel.

Kiesel highlighted the impact of this transition: “Last year, we avoided the emissions equivalent of 107,824 cars and converted more than 314 million pounds of used oil into renewable diesel or biodiesel. We are working towards running our fleet of trucks on both biodiesel and renewable diesel to create a circular economy.”

In this circular process, Restaurant Technologies not only delivers fresh cooking oil but also helps recycle it into fuel that can power its own delivery vehicles—closing the loop on sustainability.

Overcoming Sustainability Challenges in the Food Industry

For restaurants and other commercial kitchens, managing used cooking oil has long been a time-consuming and potentially hazardous task. Traditional oil management methods generate excessive plastic and cardboard waste, and restaurants collectively produce over 3 billion pounds of oil waste annually. By delivering cooking oil in bulk and managing its entire life cycle, Restaurant Technologies significantly reduces this waste.

Additionally, the company’s automated systems help restaurants optimize their oil usage, allowing them to get the most out of each batch of oil while maintaining high quality standards. Through its TOM portal, Restaurant Technologies enables customers to track their oil usage and implement a structured filtration schedule, maximizing the oil’s lifespan and minimizing waste.

In 2023, these efforts saved 17.4 million oil jugs and reduced waste by 26.6 million pounds, making a meaningful difference in both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Advancements in Oil Recycling Technology

As the industry evolves, Restaurant Technologies continues to explore new ways to improve its recycling processes. One of the most promising developments is the use of hydrotreating, a process that converts oils and fats into hydrocarbons similar to those found in petroleum diesel. This results in renewable diesel with lower carbon content and fewer harmful emissions, offering a direct replacement for conventional diesel without compromising performance.

Kiesel is particularly excited about the future potential of renewable diesel: “Some of our used cooking oil supply goes to renewable diesel production, emphasizing our commitment to producing the most sustainable fuel options available. We strive to utilize biodiesel and renewable diesel in our fleet, creating a closed-loop process from the delivery of fresh oil to the use of recycled oil in our own vehicles.”

Paving the Way for a Greener Future

As the food industry seeks to adopt more sustainable practices, Restaurant Technologies stands out as a pioneer in oil management and recycling. Through its innovative systems and commitment to creating a circular economy, the company is making significant strides in reducing waste, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and providing customers with a cleaner, more efficient way to manage cooking oil.

By transforming used oil into renewable fuel and automating traditional processes, Restaurant Technologies is not only helping its customers become more sustainable, but also demonstrating how businesses can lead the way toward a greener, more resource-efficient future.

https://innotechtoday.com/the-future-of-renewable-fuels-from-kitchen-waste/

Acer To Showcase Its Latest Tech Innovations And AI Solutions At GITEX Global 2024

Acer is set to captivate attendees at GITEX GLOBAL Largest Tech & Startup Show in the World 2024 with a wide range of cutting-edge technology and AI-powered innovations. From October 14th to 18th, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, visitors will experience Acer’s latest developments in artificial intelligence, mobility, education, gaming, sustainability, and business solutions. GITEX, one of the world’s largest technology events, will bring together leading minds from over 170 countries, and Acer is poised to make a substantial impact.

Pioneering AI and Smart Laptops

At the forefront of Acer’s presentation are the newly introduced Swift AI Copilot+ PCs, featuring a variety of processors, including the Snapdragon® X Plus, AMD Ryzen™ AI 300 Series, and Intel® Core Ultra Processors. These devices are engineered to deliver enhanced AI capabilities, streamlining workflows, improving efficiency, and enabling on-device AI applications. Whether for work, content creation, or entertainment, these laptops are designed to handle even the most demanding tasks with ease.

Michele Montecchio, General Manager of Acer Middle East, commented on the company’s excitement for the event: “We are thrilled to showcase our latest innovations and AI solutions alongside the world’s leading tech companies. GITEX provides a unique platform for us to demonstrate the future of technology.”

Innovation in E-Mobility and Sustainability

Acer’s commitment to sustainability and innovative design is also evident in its Predator Extreme PES017 E-Scooter, a bold, adventure-ready electric scooter. Built with exploration in mind, this product highlights Acer’s focus on eco-friendly transportation solutions for the modern world.

Additionally, Acer is introducing new technology that minimizes environmental impact while optimizing performance. Acer's participation in GITEX highlights their dedication to sustainability and the integration of advanced technology into everyday life.

Empowering Education and Businesses

For the education and business sectors, Acer will showcase devices like the Chromebook Plus 515, designed to boost productivity, efficiency, and multitasking. With features like a powerful processor, a high-quality 1080p webcam, and military-grade durability, the Chromebook Plus 515 is ideal for both work and play. The built-in AI apps further enhance its functionality, making it a versatile tool for students and professionals alike.

The Acer TravelMate P614 AI laptop, aimed at business professionals, offers cutting-edge performance and AI capabilities in a sleek, ultra-thin design. With a long battery life, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and military-grade durability, this laptop is perfect for hybrid work environments and fast-paced professional lifestyles.

Game-Changing Gaming Devices

For gaming enthusiasts, Acer will debut its Acer Nitro Blaze 7, a handheld AI gaming device that combines portability with powerful performance. Gamers will enjoy lightning-fast gameplay, on-device AI-powered graphics enhancements, and real-time upscaling for an elevated gaming experience on the go. The compact design allows users to easily carry the device for entertainment anywhere.

The Predator XB273K V5 Monitor is another highlight for gamers, offering stunning 4K resolution, a 160 Hz refresh rate, and ultra-responsive gameplay. This high-performance monitor is designed for those seeking immersive, crystal-clear visuals and flawless gameplay.

Next-Level Connectivity and 3D Imaging

Among the tech innovations Acer will be unveiling is the Acer SpatialLabs Eyes, a revolutionary 3D camera designed for business and lifestyle users alike. With an 8MP per-eye resolution and a weatherproof design, this multifaceted device enables users to create 3D content, live stream, and participate in virtual meetings in 3D, providing a new dimension to remote work and collaboration.

Additionally, the Acer Wave 7 Wi-Fi 7 Mesh Router promises to deliver seamless, high-speed connectivity across homes and workplaces. With its advanced technology, the router ensures uninterrupted streaming, gaming, and browsing, even in the most demanding environments.

Acer at GITEX: What to Expect

Visitors to GITEX Global 2024 will have the opportunity to explore Acer’s wide range of products through live demonstrations and hands-on experiences at the company’s interactive stand. Whether exploring innovative laptops, AI solutions, or e-mobility devices, Acer’s offerings are designed to cater to a broad audience, from tech enthusiasts to business professionals.

GITEX attendees can find Acer at Hall 3, Stand No. H3-C20 from October 14th to 18th at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

https://www.zawya.com/en/press-release/companies-news/acer-to-showcase-its-latest-tech-innovations-and-ai-solutions-at-gitex-global-2024-drnfol3s

Conclusion

The strides being made in sustainability and technological innovation are remarkable, with groundbreaking solutions that address both environmental and lifestyle challenges.

From artificial plants that purify indoor air while generating electricity, to the transformation of kitchen waste into renewable fuel, these advancements showcase the power of innovation in fostering a more eco-friendly future.

Complementing these efforts, Acer's unveiling of cutting-edge AI-powered solutions at GITEX Global 2024 demonstrates the potential for smart technologies to reshape industries, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to sustainable living.

These pioneering technologies not only enhance the quality of life but also lead the way toward a greener, more resource-efficient future.

Sources: Techxplore.com Innotechtoday.com Zawya.com

GITEX GLOBAL Largest Tech & Startup Show in the World Binghamton University Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science, Binghamton University Innovation & Tech Today Restaurant Technologies Acer Dubai World Trade Centre Tech Xplore

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