In greening air travel, small parts can make a big difference

Aircraft flaps and emergency power units are part of efforts to reduce the aviation industry’s contribution to global warming. By  TOM CASSAUWERS Each time a plane takes off or lands, flaps on the wings extend or retract to maintain stability and serve as a visual reminder that an aircraft is composed of thousands of complicated parts. … Read more

Paper makers and users look to greener frontiers

While the industry consumes lots of trees and produces plenty of waste, grass packaging and new construction materials point toward a more sustainable path. By  TOM CASSAUWERS Switzerland is renowned for its mountains, cheese and chocolate. Less well known is how Lindt, a Swiss chocolate producer, is packaging the delights in greener ways. The paper packaging … Read more

Unlocking the secrets to Mars

Simulating the Red Planet’s geology and hydrology reveals how the landscape has changed, helping the search for landing sites for future missions. By Michael Allen Humans have been fascinated by Mars probably since the first of the species turned their gaze to the night sky. Space exploration today attests to that continuing fascination. Since the … Read more

Innovation in Europe – the secrets to entrepreneurial success and the importance of “patient capital”

As of today, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has a new President of the Board, Dr Michiel Scheffer. With a budget of €10 billion, the EIC aims to identify and scale up new technologies and scientific breakthroughs. In an interview with Horizon magazine, Scheffer looks at the task ahead, where he feels innovation in Europe … Read more

For priceless European art, extra protection costs very little

Inexpensive new materials and sensors will help even small museums prevent irreversible damage to objects. By  ALEX WHITING Overlooking the waters of the Grand Canal in Venice, the former home of American art collector Peggy Guggenheim houses one of Italy’s most important collections of 20th century works. Until recently, many of them were at risk from an … Read more