Energy costs more on islands, as they are typically isolated from the national grid. While greater use of renewable energy could lower these costs, most European islands don’t have the necessary grid infrastructure. The EU-funded INSULAE project’s demonstrations showcased the technical and economic viability of decentralising island energy supplies, paving a way to affordable, sustainable energy.
A 4-year study funded by the EU has revealed the presence of a climate feedback loop that threatens to push marine ecosystems beyond critical thresholds. Researchers in the COMFORT project say action is needed now to prevent rising temperatures, ocean acidification and falling oxygen levels causing irrevocable changes to ocean habitats.
Permafrost coasts are one of the most dynamic ecosystems on Earth and they are undergoing rapid change. The EU-funded Nunataryuk project assessed the impacts of thawing coastal and subsea permafrost on the global climate. Their work on adaptation and mitigation strategies is also helping to build resilience in Arctic coastal populations.
Reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is a critical element in the fight against climate change. This is why EU researchers have pioneered a novel method of capturing emissions and storing them underground as rock. This could help Europe meet its climate targets.
The industrial sector accounts for nearly a third of energy use in the EU, mostly for heat and thermal processes. Innovative technology developed by the EU-funded ETEKINA project recycles factory heat, lowering environmental impact and running costs. The research supports the EU’s goal of being climate-neutral by 2050.
Airborne pollutants are a threat to researchers and citizens alike. Using low-cost sensing technologies, the EU-funded VIDIS project hopes to deliver more accurate assessments of particulate matter exposure. Routine monitoring of air quality could offer significant health benefits for EU citizens.
International coordination is essential to addressing challenges including trade and development, security, climate change, migration and global finance. The EU-funded GLOBE project has identified major trends the EU should take into account for its future strategies in this arena. The work will help keep EU citizens and their interests at the heart of global governance for decades to come.
Essential services such as water, energy and transport are increasingly under pressure from climate change, cyberattack and their own growing complexity. The EU-funded KIOS Centre of Excellence, powered by young researchers, has been developing digital solutions that protect key services. The work will keep EU citizens safe while boosting the knowledge-based economy in Cyprus and beyond.
The shipping industry is responsible for 3% of global carbon emissions, putting it under the spotlight for environmental upgrades. Two game-changing vessel designs have now been produced with the help of EU funding, along with retrofit technologies for existing cruise ships and bulk carriers. Maritime sustainability is a key EU priority on the continent’s journey to slashing carbon emissions while creating opportunities for green economic growth and jobs.
Solar panels installed over traditional roofs can suffer from weather-related problems and compromise the roof construction. The EU-funded TilePlus project designed new roof tiles with embedded tough photovoltaic cells. This would allow millions of homes across Europe to produce their own energy.
