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Metaverse and Pakistan– Merging the Parallel Worlds

Sarah Arif
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Metaverse and Pakistan– Merging the Parallel Worlds

The unprecedented takeover of the COVID-19 pandemic caused the downfall of several industries, yet it bloomed the digital world quickly. Humans have created a real-life version of a digital world known as the Metaverse. 

Photo Credits: voicebot.ai
Photo Credits: voicebot.ai

Meta, formerly Facebook, aims to extend its services beyond a 2D interface and towards an innovative 3D space to create more meaningful connections. People can experience the Metaverse through various ways, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Although the online gaming world has dominated the Metaverse, it is much more than that. If executed successfully to the mass audience, Metaverse can change the traditional nine-to-five office lifestyle. It will allow people to free themselves from the shackles of an office routine and let them work remotely.   

According to published research in 2023 called “Digital Business Model Innovation in Metaverse: How to Approach Virtual Economy Opportunities”, the change in the name of ‘Facebook’ to ‘Meta’ shows the significance of the digitalized universe. 

Famous AI Assistants Photo Credits: Meta
Famous AI Assistants Photo Credits: Meta

Meta recently introduced AI versions of known personalities such as Kendall Jenner and Mr. Beast. This feature allows users to chat with these AI bots who have a name, personality and background story. It has met with significant criticism amongst some people on Instagram, who have labelled this as ‘creepy’ and said this further disconnects real and meaningful interactions. Additionally, Meta has accepted that the information provided by these AI characters may be outdated as it is before 2023, and further improvements will be made with time. 

However, the Metaverse is not limited to social media platforms. It extends to companies selling physical products, such as Coca-Cola, Dyson and IKEA, who have already invested in the Metaverse. The increased interest of considerable corporations in virtual reality is a good enough reason to understand its impact on our future. 

The economic aspects of the Metaverse 

Much like the real world, no human being owns the Metaverse. It simply consists of different technologies and companies. People, therefore, are needed to buy, sell, operate and maintain parts of this digital world. In an article published by Gartner, a management consulting company, Jackie Wiles writes that the Metaverse will run on digital currency and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Unlike Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency, NFTs cannot be replaced with another NFT. Although anyone can access and print the NFTs bought, it gives the owner of NFTs full rights to the original digital work.

Not long ago, some were suspicious of the emergence of digital currency, whereas others quickly invested in it and promoted this idea. Despite the constant change in the economic value of digital currencies, it can be used in the Metaverse. After all, the physical currency we use today also changes in value in the real world.

A while back, Damac, a real-estate company based in the UAE, invested $100 million in the Metaverse. One might think that such a massive investment in a developing idea is a bold step, but not Damac. Upon financial considerations, the company is optimistic about the outcome. 

 According to their estimations, the current monthly sales of $27.2 million can be multiplied by seven to eight times with this investment. They aim to expand their sales to customers worldwide through the Metaverse. That is, anyone sitting anywhere in the world can experience a virtual property tour and potentially purchase it with NFTs.

Depending on the product or service, respective companies have different plans for fitting themselves into this new universe. So, what is Pakistan’s goal?

Dawn News uploaded paid content on 20th October 2022, which advertised Pakistan’s first ever Metaverse start-up called “The Cloud City Metaverse”, or TCCM. This is a newly launched business, co-founded by Umer Abbas, where users can play in a virtual world free of charge.

A Digitalized Pakistan?  

I tried to find research papers to understand Pakistan’s stance on this hot topic. Upon searching, I found zero published research that discusses the Metaverse and Pakistan in the same article; this is concerning. As the world promotes and invests in the Metaverse, Pakistan is not even in the picture’s background.  

A 2015 research paper, “Design Consideration of Online Shopping Website to Reach Women in Pakistan”, published in the Procedia Manufacturing journal, shares that Pakistan ranks second as the world’s leisurely adopter of online shopping. 

Another research, “Impact of Factors on Consumer’s Decision-Making Process for Online Shopping in Pakistan”, published by Salahuddin and Tahir (2021) in the Journal of Economic Development, Management, IT, Finance and Marketing, informs that the State Bank of Pakistan reported a 93.7% rise in the e-commerce sales of Pakistan as of 2018. This significant increase is due to the availability of the Internet to a larger population.

Editing Sarah Arif via canva.com
Editing Sarah Arif via canva.com

This country is home to many diverse shops. What if these stores opened up in the Metaverse and ultimately brought in customers in this universe as well? It will also introduce foreigners to famous and unique Pakistani items they can buy. That being said, enabling residents to invest and adapt to the Metaverse before it is too late is an issue that needs to be resolved.  

In September 2022, Dawn News published an article titled, “The Metaverse opens up a world of possibilities for Pakistan. Can we take advantage?” The author, Hassan Baig, criticises Pakistan’s non-existent presence in this new era of technology and gives good initiatives it should take in the Metaverse. He emphasizes the government to do its honest part in promoting and establishing services in the Metaverse safely.

Moreover, Baig also shares various ways of utilizing the digital world in Pakistan. He suggests renowned Pakistani universities should offer courses in the Metaverse where world-renowned educators can teach. This approach will prepare undergraduates to tackle the digital world once they enter the corporate world. He also mentioned how Pakistan could effectively use the Metaverse, including investments in real estate, fashion outlets, security, crisis relief and skills training.

Furthermore, Dawn News uploaded paid content on 20th October 2022, which advertised Pakistan’s first ever Metaverse start-up called “The Cloud City Metaverse”, or TCCM. This is a newly launched business, co-founded by Umer Abbas, where users can play in a virtual world free of charge. At the same time, players can customize and own virtual infrastructure if they buy NFTs. Moreover, TCMM has also been invited to attend the Dubai Metaverse Assembly, among other international events, where it has received appreciation for its work.

The End is Near 

The reign of the Metaverse is approaching with the introduction of every new technology. On the one hand, business owners and investors are keen on spending millions of dollars to expand and actualize the digitalized universe. Many employees would be happy to return to working from home, which is one of the dreams that the Metaverse aims to meet. An open and easily accessible worldwide market further enhances the available opportunities for merchandisers and consumers.

A 2023 article titled “Digital Business Model Innovation in Metaverse: How to Approach Virtual Economy Opportunities” in the Journal of Information Processing & Management predicted that the metaverse market could be worth $13 trillion by 2030. It would be not very pleasant to know that out of this $13 trillion, not a single penny belongs to Pakistan.

This can be changed if more tech-based start-ups like TCCM are encouraged and funded by the country. Pakistan should adapt its people to the constant change in technology to stay up-to-date and contribute to the advancements in the world.

 Amid the rise of the Metaverse, Pakistan must secure its position as a vital member of the virtual world to promote employment and success amongst its citizens. Nonetheless, the Metaverse is still a relatively new concept that needs to be perfected and understood better before people can entirely rely on it. 

References: 

Also, Read: Pakistan; The Road towards Digitalization

Waging a war against cancer using our fighter cells

Maham Maqsood
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Waging a war against cancer using our fighter cells

Everyone, at some point in their lives, is introduced to a survivor who has suffered through the dreadful ailment – Cancer. Or we may have lost our loved ones and before death, observed them tread through a path that no one wishes to walk. Countless times, we wished to end their suffrage, but at a certain point, everything must be left to fate. In this age of advancement and technological innovation, it is hard to believe that no proper escape from cancer is available yet (with few exceptions). But one area has caught the attention of researchers and scientists who believe it to be the getaway from cancer: Immunotherapy.

Before jumping on what it is, let’s take a minute to appreciate the human body. You don’t have to be a biologist to be able to praise its delicacy and complexity. The human body is beautiful indeed, how nature has endowed us with complete systems to maintain our existence. From growing into an adult to consuming food to making complex decisions, it is a wonder how intricately interconnected these systems are with each other. Anything goes wrong, and our defense system jumps in to revert everything to normal. But as the saying goes: Nothing is perfect. Sometimes, our cells change so drastically that they can’t stop multiplying, and this uncontrolled abnormal growth is what we call ‘Cancer.’

The Body Patrol

Over the years, many treatments have been suggested, tried, and tested. But few seem to work given that certain circumstances are provided. Cancer cells are so smart and highly advanced that it is a daunting task to treat them. Cancer is killing millions of people each year; it is a health challenge, complicated to tackle. After trying different treatments, scientists have stumbled upon the powerful weapon we all have; our immune system. Present throughout the body, it gives us resistance and fights harmful infectious agents and diseases. At times we don’t even know about all the battles taking place inside our bodies.

Immunotherapy seeks to trigger and restore the immune system to recognize and confront cancer

One is inclined to think that if it’s efficient, then why cancer cells escape our immune system in the first place? Well, that is because, as mentioned, they are very clever and are our body’s mutated cells, they aren’t recognized as a foreign threat by the immune system. As they progress and develop, they gain the ability to dodge, fight, and gain control over the defenses. Immunotherapy is such a treatment that seeks to trigger and restore the immune system to recognize and confront cancer.

How it works

Certain parts of the immune system are used in various ways to target cancer cells. Either simulation or recognition abilities are provided to make them work par cancer or components are given that aid in the process of destruction. It may vary according to the different types and may work better for some than the others.

In the case of the detection of harmful agents, the body also makes proteins called antibodies that attack specific parts on an infected cell. These ‘monoclonal antibodies’ can be used to mark cells that can then be degraded by the immune system.

Our immune system’s ability to discriminate between native and foreign cells mostly involves T cells, which are a type of white blood cells. There are accelerators and brakes (yes, just like that in the cars) that modulate a balance so that only foreign cells are killed, and no autoimmune destruction of the standard cell occurs. These are manipulated by cancer cells so that they can remain incognito.

James P. Allison and Tasuku Honjo were awarded Noble Prize “for their discovery of cancer therapy by inhibition of negative immune regulation”

In immunotherapy, drugs are used to release these brakes leading to wipeout of dangerous cells. The Noble Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2018 was awarded to scientists James P. Allison and Tasuku Honjo, who discovered the crucial pathways i.e. PD-1 and CTLA-4 that cancer cells use to escape. But by blocking these pathways with antibodies, a response is restored. This treatment is called ‘immune checkpoint therapy.’

Another type of T-cell therapy includes targeting receptors. These are the proteins present on the cell surface which help in recognition, signal transmission and are basically the “eyes and ears of the cell.” Altering the receptors in the cell makes them efficiently recognize cancer cells which are then sought from the entire pool and degraded. This therapy is called Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy and has been helpful in certain blood cancer treatments. Scientists are researching to understand it better and develop effective therapies.

Non-Specific Immunotherapies are another class that aids the immune cells in their quest to destroy cancer. These can be given during other cancer treatments (such as radiation and chemotherapy) or after their completion. Most common include Interferons and Interleukins. The former slows down and hinders the growth of cancer cells and the latter helps in the production of those that are involved in the fight. The medicinal treatments also have drawbacks as well which may vary from person to person, but common side effects include hair loss, high risk of infection, weight gain, low blood pressure, etc.

Expectations vs. reality

All this sounds very impressive and using one’s defense system is a great idea, but has its limitations and problems. While some may be cured on a miraculous level or experience an everlasting response, other patients may not respond that well to immunotherapy. The majority don’t receive a positive effect and studies have shown that the response rate is 20% with a varying survival rate. To find which cancers are the best enemies of this therapy, extensive research is being conducted and methods are being identified. New immunotherapy approaches include improvements through nanotechnology, precision therapy and many more.

Immunotherapy approaches include precision medicines and therapy
In Precision Therapy drugs are tailored according to the genetic makeup and need of the patient
Image Credit: HYACINTH EMPINADO/STAT

Those who receive it may go through drastically different phases: fine at first, sick later. New side effects may originate confusing both the doctors and patients, and severe toxicities startle researchers. This ‘trial and error’ situation is depressing but necessary. Pressure from big pharma and medical industry to develop effective drugs and treatment against cancer is high leading to the conduction of thousands of trials (in which participation rates also drop now and then) where the researchers aim to explore and find the expectations of others suppress an answer. Challenges arise for oncologists who not only have to work out solutions but also have to convince patients who demand immunotherapy without being aware of its pros and cons, just because they have heard about its miracles.

But this shouldn’t lead to the conclusion that it is rouge role outperforms the benefits. There are success stories as well, and various research institutes around the world are leading the way. Who knows, it may even beat out conventional chemotherapy. But a reality check can help to keep things in place and create a balance between the trend and its potential. Immunotherapy surely has the potential to alter the landscape of cancer treatments and deserves all the praise and attention. It has a long way to go, but hope should keep alive for it can indeed change and save lives of millions of people who have cancer, a feat yet to accomplish.

Did you like that? Then check out The Taboo around Cancer in Women

The Hidden Culprit of Winter Smog- Temperature Inversion

Adnan Mirza
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The Hidden Culprit of Winter Smog- Temperature Inversion

As the cold grips the city of Karachi and the rest of the country, everyone is concerned with the smog, but fewer are aware that an important phenomenon and one of the main reasons for smog is known as the “Temperature Inversion Layer”.

The inversions are stable air masses where the warm air overlays the excellent air mass. The more generous top layer creates a blanket over the more excellent air mass below, which seizes the vertical movement of the atmosphere by trapping the cool air mass underneath it, along with all the pollutants suspended in it.

This is precisely the opposite of the typical temperature profile. Hence the name “temperature inversion”. Earth’s atmosphere is divided into layers i.e., troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, exosphere, etc. These layers are divided based on their physical parameters, such as temperature and density. In each layer, these parameters change. Usually, the air temperature decreases with increasing height in the troposphere.

In the case of inversion, the temperature gradient behavior inverts i.e., the lower layers of air become cooler than the upper layers. 

thermal invasion

How is it formed?

One of the reasons for temperature inversion to form is when a warm, less dense air mass moves over the cooler and denser air mass. This traps the cool air below the warm air, creating an inversion layer.

Under normal conditions, the lower layers of the air in the troposphere are heated by the radiation emitting from the Earth. The heat then travels upwards via convection and increases the temperature of the upper layers of air in the troposphere. Temperature inversion can also form if the Earth cools rapidly via radiation. This usually occurs during the winter or at night. The air near the Earth’s surface cools along with it. The air above the surface layer does not cool as rapidly as the air near the surface, creating an inversion layer.

Conditions

There are a few conditions for this phenomenon to occur:

  • The first is the temperature. The winter season provides the necessary requirements to trigger an inversion event.
  • Similarly, the time of the day is another factor. The inversion layer occurs during sunrise when the ground has cooled off and starts cooling the air layer near the surface.
  • Strong winds help in the mixing of air masses. During calm weather, the air masses stay stable and do not mix. This increases the chances of an inversion layer occurring.
  • Similar to the wind effect, precipitation also helps in the mixing and moving of air masses. Lack of rainfall allows stable air masses to exist, contributing to the inversion layer events.
  • Additionally, the topography plays an important role in this. Cool air sinks at the bottom of the valleys and depressions, increasing the possibility of an inversion layer.
A depiction of how pollutants get trapped due to inversion. Credits: University of Missouri.
A depiction of how pollutants get trapped due to inversion. Credits: University of Missouri.

Types of Inversions

There are four kinds of inversions: ground, turbulence, subsidence, and frontal.

Ground Inversion: The air near the surface cools rapidly due to the cooling of the Earth’s surface. The upper layers remain warmer than the bottom layer. Additionally, if the temperature of the bottom layer reaches the dew point, fog will form.

Moreover, in hilly areas, the cool air sinks from the hill slopes toward the bottom, creating an inversion layer.

Turbulence Inversion: This occurs when a turbulent air mass is overlain by static or calm air mass. Turbulent air mass loses heat due to mixing, whereas the static air mass remains warm.

Subsidence Inversion: Due to high pressure, the air descends rapidly from a higher altitude and heats up due to compression. The air at the bottom remains cooler, hence creating an inversion layer.

Frontal Inversion: This type of inversion happens when a warm air mass overlays a cool air mass. The difference in their densities doesn’t allow mixing; therefore, the warm front, being less dense, wedges over the cool front.

frontal inversion
Frontal Inversion

The Problem

In normal circumstances, the vertical movement of the air persists, which allows the mixing and dispersion of the air. In the case of temperature inversion, warm air rises, trapping the cool air underneath it. This seizes the vertical motion of the air. This also traps the smoke and pollutants from escaping. These particles don’t move because the airflow is blocked. The particles then combine to become even more lethal, leaving behind persistent, dangerous smog.

In the northern hemisphere, inverse temperatures are more frequent in the winter. Additionally, burning wood or coal in homes for heat increases air pollution by releasing more dangerous contaminants into the atmosphere. Increased pollution combined with the inversion mechanism is the perfect recipe for respiratory diseases among people. Diseases such as sore throat, conjunctivitis, and lung irritation are a few common issues related to being in so much polluted air.

Understanding the Temperature Inversion Layer is crucial in addressing the air quality challenges that arise during winter. Efforts to mitigate pollution should consider these atmospheric intricacies. Whether it’s promoting cleaner energy sources, regulating industrial emissions, or fostering awareness about the impact of individual activities, acknowledging the role of temperature inversion is a vital step toward breathable and healthier urban environments.

As we navigate the winter season, it’s not just about bundling up against the cold; it’s about unraveling the layers of atmospheric complexities that impact our health and well-being. By unveiling the secrets behind temperature inversion, we can make informed decisions that contribute to cleaner air and a safer environment.

References:

Met Office

Read more: SUSTAINABILITY IN ASTRONOMY — A CONVERSATION WITH DR LEONARD BURTSCHER FROM “ASTRONOMERS FOR PLANET EARTH”

Cow burps heat up the Earth; Biotech company invents Bovine Beano

Rebah Tanvir
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Cow burps heat up the Earth; Biotech company invents Bovine Beano

Cows burp out Methane, which is 34 times more potent than carbon dioxide among the greenhouse gases that heat up the world. A biotech startup, Lumen Bioscience, based in Seattle, has come forward with a solution to this problem. An enzyme—made of spirulina breaks down the microorganism responsible for reducing these emissions at a low cost.

Methane — a hot gas

Greenhouse gases help maintain the temperature of the Earth; they are a combination of carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, nitrous oxide, chlorofluorocarbons, and water vapour. Methane is a greenhouse gas released during the breakdown of organic substances, for example, in the gastrointestinal tract of animals. Researchers at Wageningen University have found Ruminants (cows, goats, sheep) to be a particular source of much methane.

Agriculture is also known to be the predominant source of methane. In fact, according to data from the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, even as carbon dioxide emissions decelerated during the pandemic-related lockdowns of 2020, atmospheric methane shot up. Sustainable development has become a crucial step to combat global warming and reduce carbon footprints that heat the Earth. Companies are finding effective strategies to take part in this initiative.

Lumen to the Rescue

Lumen Biosciences, a biotech start-up based in Seattle, is dedicated to producing cost-effective and patented biologic drugs to cure gastrointestinal diseases in the human gut using spirulina. One such product is the study on bacteria C. difficile to treat recurrent infections in the human gut. 

This technique inspired the researcher at Lumen, Mark Heinnickel, who had grown up on a dairy farm, to realize that if the same basic approach targeted methane-producing bacteria, it might help cows’ climate problem. In an interview for Fast company, he said, “He realized if we can kill the C. difficile bacterium that causes human suffering, maybe we can make the same class of enzymes, feed it to cows, and stop methane,” this can in turn, potentially help reduce the greenhouse effects, as methane is 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

Credits: Lumen Biosciences. Mesfin Gewe, senior scientist at Lumen Bioscience, holds a dish filled with powdered spirulina cells, each with a therapeutic protein payload. To target methane gas, the spirulina will have been engineered to express the methanogen-targeting lysin protein. Once in the cow rumen, the protein will destroy the methanogen microbes.
Mesfin Gewe, senior scientist at Lumen Bioscience, holds a dish filled with powdered spirulina cells, each with a therapeutic protein payload. To target methane gas, the spirulina will have been engineered to express the methanogen-targeting lysin protein. Once in the cow rumen, the protein will destroy the methanogen microbes. Credits: Lumen Biosciences.

Spirulina is an edible algae that is considered to be a valuable tool in the making of biological medication if only it could be engineered. Researchers at Lumen Biosciences are the only company with successfully engineered spirulina and commercially produced viable, orally administered patent biologics at low cost. They have a large-scale manufacturing process contrary to traditional medication, which uses conventional methods like mammalian cells or injections, and they take pride in the efficacy and high yield of their product.

Other companies have suggested using seaweed supplements to treat the exact cause. Still, there are health and safety concerns regarding additives like bromoform, a potential carcinogen found in the plant, in addition to low yield and high costs. Using spirulina avoids such concerns as feeding the cows spirulina containing the enzyme does not in any way get absorbed in the cow’s bloodstream or milk.

While addressing the fast company, Lumens CEO Brian Finrow assured that the technology used and the enzyme lysin work like a sniper rifle that only targets harmful microbes. He also compared the product to Beano, an enzyme that humans take as a supplement to reduce gas.

Credits: Lumen Biosciences. The powdered spirulina can be pressed into a capsule or pelletized to be taken orally.
The powdered spirulina can be pressed into a capsule or pelletized to be taken orally. Credits: Lumen Biosciences.

Wilkes Center Climate Prize of $1.5M awarded to Lumen Biosciences

The University of Utah recognized Lumen for its groundbreaking proposal to significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle using a patented enzyme mixture. This innovative approach outshone 77 international competitors and holds the potential to revolutionize climate change mitigation efforts. 

Lumens CEO Brian Finrow and Chief Scientific Officer Jim Roberts founded Lumen with the vision of revolutionizing protein therapeutics manufacturing, enabling them to address global challenges that conventional biomanufacturing technologies cannot tackle. The recognition bestowed by the Wilkes Climate Prize at the University of Utah serves as a powerful affirmation of Lumen’s commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

William Anderegg (right), director of the Wilkes Center for Climate Science and Policy, awards the inaugural Wilkes Climate Prize at the University of Utah to Jim Roberts, chief scientific officer at Lumen Bioscience. Photo credit: Todd Anderson/University of Utah College of Science.
William Anderegg (right), director of the Wilkes Center for Climate Science and Policy, awards the inaugural Wilkes Climate Prize at the University of Utah to Jim Roberts, chief scientific officer at Lumen Bioscience. Photo credit: Todd Anderson/University of Utah College of Science.

It is important to note that these drugs are in the development phases and have promising lab results. Researchers at Lumen suggest one supplement a week for cows once all trials are successful. In an interview with Fast Company, Joseph McFadden, a professor of dairy cattle biology at Cornell University, said, “Clinical efficacy and safety trials are needed for that kind of technology.”

Lumen plans on launching the Rumen biosciences company if the drug trials on cows are thriving, along with approvals from the governments, for example, the FDA. Their patented enzyme mixture will target methane-producing microorganisms in the rumen, a specialized compartment of the cow’s digestive system. This groundbreaking technology, developed by Lumen’s highly skilled scientists, has the potential to mitigate cattle’s contribution to climate change significantly.

References

FAQ: What is the greenhouse effect? (n.d.). Climate Change: Vital Signs of the Planet. Retrieved 4 November 2023, from https://climate.nasa.gov/faq/19/what-is-the-greenhouse-effect

Lumen Bioscience wins historic $1.5M Wilkes Center Climate Prize—@theU. (n.d.). Retrieved 4 November 2023, from https://attheu.utah.edu/facultystaff/wilkes-prize-winner/

Methane emissions are driving climate change. Here’s how to reduce them. (2021, August 20). UNEP. http://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/methane-emissions-are-driving-climate-change-heres-how-reduce-them

Muizelaar, W., Groot, M., Duinkerken, G. van, Peters, R., & Dijkstra, J. (2021). Safety and transfer study: Transfer of bromoform present in asparagopsis taxiformis to milk and urine of lactating dairy cows. Foods, 10(3), 584. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030584

Peters, A. (2023, September 26). Cows burp out too much methane. This biotech startup is making a bovine Beano. Fast Company. https://www.fastcompany.com/90957325/cow-burps-methane-biotech-startup-enzyme-bovine-beano

PPT – Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) PowerPoint Presentation—ID:4766348. (n.d.). Retrieved 5 November 2023, from https://www.slideserve.com/morty/intergovernmental-panel-on-climate-change-ipcc

The Greenhouse Effect | Center for Science Education. (n.d.). Retrieved 4 November 2023, from https://scied.ucar.edu/learning-zone/how-climate-works/greenhouse-effect

Also Read: BREAKING THE ODDS IN FIELD EPIDEMIOLOGY IN PAKISTAN

Tales of Women Pioneers in Astronomy: From Aprons to Space

Aly Gajani
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Tales of Women Pioneers in Astronomy: From Aprons to Space

Astronomy, like many fields of science, has historically been male-dominated. From the ancient stargazers of Greece to the renowned astronomers of the Renaissance, women were often relegated to the periphery and denied the opportunities to explore the cosmos. This was not due to a lack of talent or interest among women but rather the systematic barriers they faced in accessing education and pursuing scientific careers.

Before 1900, women interested in studying the stars needed a male relative (father, brother, or husband) to gain access. Even well into the 20th century, despite their significant intellectual abilities, women astronomers faced barriers preventing them from seizing opportunities. This was the reality faced by women who wanted to pursue a career in astronomy.

They were often excluded from educational opportunities, denied funding for their research, and passed over for promotions. Despite these challenges, many women persevered and made significant contributions to astronomy.

Maria Mitchell was one of the earliest women to break through these barriers. Her father encouraged her love of astronomy and helped her to build her own telescope. Mitchell made her first astronomical discovery in 1847 when she spotted a new comet, which made her an international celebrity.

The culture in astronomy and science, in general, has evolved since then. There has been a growing awareness to promote gender equality and inclusion in science. This movement has increased the number of women studying astronomy and a greater recognition of their contributions to the field.

Ekta Patel, a Miller postdoctoral fellow at UC Berkeley who studies satellite galaxies, says, “We don’t want to change ourselves to fit the mould.” Lia Medeiros, an NSF postdoctoral fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton, agrees, “I enjoy being a girl. I’m going to be a girl all over their physics. This is my world, too.”

Let us embark on a journey as we appreciate the outstanding achievements of women astronomers who shattered gender norms, leaving an indelible mark on our comprehension of the cosmos.

Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin

Eventually, Cecilia became the first woman chair of the astronomy department at Harvard.
Eventually, Cecilia became the first woman chair of the astronomy department at Harvard.

She was starting with the inspiring story of Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, an American astrophysicist who proposed that stars were composed primarily of hydrogen and helium. In 1925, with her thesis entitled “Stellar Atmospheres,” she became the first to earn a PhD in astronomy from Radcliffe College of Harvard University. Her claims were contrary to prevailing beliefs, so her doctoral thesis was not taken well.

In those times, male astronomers dominated at the highest level; as a result, Payne-Gaposchkin faced a long struggle to gain recognition. She taught several astronomy courses, but her contribution went unlisted in the course catalogues, and they paid her as much as a technical assistant. Despite gender bias affecting her career, she remained persistent.

A few years after her Ph. D., independent researchers verified her research on the composition of stars. Eventually, Cecilia became the first woman chair of the astronomy department at Harvard. Even today, her thesis stands as the cornerstone of astrophysics textbooks, and her lifelong inspirational contributions continue to motivate generations of women to follow.

Henrietta Swan Leavitt

Henrietta Leavitt established the basis for measuring distances in the universe.
Henrietta Leavitt established the basis for measuring distances in the universe.

Like Cecilia, Henrietta Leavitt worked as a ‘computer’ at the Harvard College Observatory to analyze the enormous volume of data the observatory collected. Women were hired as they accepted lower wages. Even college-educated women were paid like unskilled workers, at 25 to 50 cents an hour.

Battling all the gender discrimination, Leavitt went on to discover the properties of Cepheid variable stars that gave astronomers the first ‘standard candle’ to work with, a means to measure the distance to faraway galaxies. Today, as we map the night sky in extensive sky surveys, Henrietta Leavitt established the basis for measuring distances in the universe.

“I am proud of the work that I have done at NASA. I believe that I have made a real difference in astronomy. I hope my work will inspire other women to pursue careers in science.”

Nancy Grace Roman— The Mother of Hubble

She earned her Ph.D. in astronomy from the University of Chicago in 1949, breaking barriers as one of the few women in her cohort.
She earned her Ph.D. in astronomy from the University of Chicago in 1949, breaking barriers as one of the few women in her cohort.

Nancy Grace Roman was a visionary leader who paved the way for the Hubble telescope and beyond. Born on May 16, 1925, in Nashville, Tennessee, Nancy Grace Roman’s fascination with the night sky began at an early age. Encouraged by her parents, she pursued her love for astronomy and mathematics. Roman’s journey in a male-dominated field was marked by resilience and brilliance. She earned her Ph.D. in astronomy from the University of Chicago in 1949, breaking barriers as one of the few women in her cohort.

In 1959, Roman joined NASA as the first chief of astronomy, where she played a vital role in the planning and development of the Hubble Space Telescope. In her own words, in an interview, she said, “I am proud of the work that I have done at NASA. I believe that I have made a real difference in astronomy. I hope my work will inspire other women to pursue careers in science.”

Katherine Johnson

Her career began in 1953 when she joined NASA, where she was a "computer" at Langley Research Center "when the computer wore a skirt," Katherine once said.
Her career began in 1953 when she joined NASA, where she was a “computer” at Langley Research Center “when the computer wore a skirt,” Katherine once said.

In the chronicles of space exploration, the name Katherine Johnson shines like a brilliant star. Her remarkable contributions to NASA, particularly during the Apollo program, remain an inspiring testament to the power of intellect, perseverance, and breaking down racial and gender barriers. Her career began in 1953 when she joined NASA, where she was a “computer” at Langley Research Center “when the computer wore a skirt,” Katherine once said.

She was involved in calculating trajectories for numerous space missions, most notably for John Glenn’s historic orbit of the Earth in 1962. Her precise calculations were crucial in ensuring Glenn’s safe return. Yet, her most monumental role was in the Apollo program, where her brilliance and expertise in plotting the spacecraft’s trajectory provided the safe arrival of the first human Moon landing.

Katherine Johnson’s contributions did not go unnoticed. Over the years, her groundbreaking work received the recognition it deserved. In 2015, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honour, by President Barack Obama.

Vera C. Rubin

She received several profound awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society.
She received several profound awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Vera Rubin stands as an iconic figure in the world of astrophysics. She led the revolutionary research, which offered the initial direct proof of the presence of Dark Matter, the enigmatic substance constituting most of the universe yet emitting neither energy nor light.

Unfortunately, all women astronomers in those times—those earning doctorates between the mid-1950s and the mid-1980s—had the same stories of gender discrimination. Rubin’s early contributions were met with scepticism from her fellow colleagues in the field, to the extent that she was advised to stay away from science. She kept going anyway by telling herself she was just different from other people.

Ultimately, like many women astronomers, she gained recognition only through her significant contributions to the field. Her groundbreaking work on the rotation curves of galaxies played a crucial role in our understanding of galaxy formation and modern cosmology.

She received several profound awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society. Indeed, her contributions to science serve as a beacon of inspiration, especially for women, to pursue careers in astrophysics.

“The fact that I was a graduate student and a woman, together, demoted my standing in receiving a Nobel Prize.”

Jocelyn Bell Burnell

"Women should not have to do all of the adapting."
“Women should not have to do all of the adapting.”

As part of her doctoral research at Cambridge University, Jocelyn Burnell was responsible for operating a radio telescope with her adviser, Antony Hewish, and Sir Martin Ryle, where they observed strange pulsating signals coming from space. After careful investigation, she and her colleagues determined that these radio signals were emitted by a rapidly rotating neutron star, which became known as a pulsar.

Burnell was the second author of the paper announcing the discovery of pulsars, but she was not awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, which was jointly awarded to Hewish and Ryle in 1974. In later years, she finally said, “The fact that I was a graduate student and a woman, together, demoted my standing in receiving a Nobel Prize.”

Ekta Patel, a Miller postdoctoral fellow at UC Berkeley who studies satellite galaxies, says, “We don’t want to change ourselves to fit the mould.”

Despite this setback, Burnell continued her pioneering work in astrophysics and has received numerous awards and honours for her contributions to astronomy. She was named the first female president of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. She has been a strong advocate for women in science as well. 2018, she was awarded the Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, worth three million dollars (£2.3 million). She donated all the money to fund women’s scholarships and under-represented ethnic minority and refugee students to become physics researchers.

She inspires scientists and aspiring researchers worldwide, reminding us that groundbreaking discoveries can come from anyone, regardless of their background or gender. Her own words, “Women should not have to do all of the adapting. It is time for society to move towards women, not women towards society,” conveys a profound source of inspiration.

Andrea Ghez

Among the other four female Nobel Laureates in physics, Ghez is the only astronomer.
Among the other four female Nobel Laureates in physics, Ghez is the only astronomer.

Andrea Ghez’s journey in astrophysics began at a young age, inspired by her father’s love for astronomy. She pursued her passion by obtaining her Bachelor’s degree in Physics from MIT and eventually a Ph.D. in Astronomy from Princeton University. Ghez’s most notable contributions evolve around the study of black holes, particularly at the centre of our Milky Way galaxy.

Through years of meticulous observations and data analysis, Ghez and her team were able to provide compelling evidence for the existence of Sagittarius A*, a supermassive Black Hole at our galactic centre. It was a commendable work that led to her recognition within the community. In 2020, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, sharing the honour with Roger Penrose and Reinhard Genzel. Among the other four female Nobel Laureates in physics, Ghez is the only astronomer.

This implies that the remarkable accomplishments of these women, and many others, transformed the narrative around astronomy to incorporate “women” as an integral part, essentially merging “women” with “astronomy”.

The same spirit of scientific discovery is still alive today, as proven by scientists such as Sara Seager, who has been recognized as one of the most influential figures in modern astronomy by the Times, Popular Science, and Nature. In addition, the admirable work by Katherine Bouman in developing an algorithm for imaging black holes has been groundbreaking.

At the same time, Nergis Mavalvala, an astrophysicist of Pakistani origin, played a crucial role in detecting gravitational waves and currently holds the position of Dean at MIT’s School of Science.

These are just a few examples of the many scientists today who are pushing the boundaries of cultural norms and revolutionizing the field. Their stories inspire all who dream of pursuing a career in science. Even though we are seeing a positive trend in women involved in STEM, they often encounter a lack of appreciation and recognition, uncertain career pathways, and harassment.

Recognizing these challenges, the astronomy community has launched initiatives to honour women in STEM. Organizations like the International Astronomical Union and the American Astronomical Society have created committees promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Additionally, various awards like the Annie Jump Cannon Award in astronomy, the Women in Space Science Award from the Women’s Board of the Adler Planetarium, and the Maria Mitchell Women in Science Award recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of women in the field.

These stories are inspiring and remind us that with passion and determination, anything is possible. They also highlight the ongoing journey towards gender equality in science. We can keep moving towards a future where everyone has a chance to reach their goals. We should celebrate the achievements of women astronomers and encourage more women to join the field. It is a reminder that the sky is for everyone, regardless of gender.

References:

  • Hughes, A. M. (2014). The 2013 CSWA Demographics Survey: Portrait of a Generation of Women in Astronomy. STATUS: A Report on Women in Astronomy, January 2014, 1-9.
  • Dickmann, N. (2017). Women scientists in astronomy and space. Gareth Stevens Publishing LLLP.
  • Finkbeiner, A. (2022). Women Are Creating a New Culture for Astronomy. Scientific American. https://doi.org/10.1038/scientificamerican0422-32
  • Stevens, S. (2021). 10 Female Astronomers Everyone Should Know. Treehugger. https://www.treehugger.com/female-astronomers-everyone-should-know-4864074
  • Green, K. (2023, June 6). Journey to the stars: the personal stories of women in astronomy – Physics World. Physics World. https://physicsworld.com/a/journey-to-the-stars-the-personal-stories-of-women-in-astronomy/
  • Rubin, V. C. (2011). An interesting voyage. Annual Review of Astronomy and Astrophysics, 49, 1-28.

Also, Read: Review: ‘Hidden Figures

The Anthropologist- A fresh take on Cultural changes due to environmental degradation

Syeda Laiba Tayyab
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The Anthropologist- A fresh take on Cultural changes due to environmental degradation

“The Anthropologist,” a critically acclaimed documentary that offers a fresh viewpoint on the subject narrated by two female anthropologists. Released in June 2016, the documentary was directed by Daniel A. Miller, Seth Kramer, and Jeremy Newberger.

The documentary follows environmental Anthropologist Susie Crate and her teen daughter Katie as they travel the world doing fieldwork, with Mary Catherine Bateson with context and running commentary on her mother’s work and the role of the Anthropologist. The film is brightly colored, moves fast, and revolves around Susie and Katie’s journey from Virginia to Siberia, Kiribati, and Peru to investigate how climate change and culture interact. 

The Anthropologist is a profoundly human portrayal of a single mother who is a scientist and has a teenage daughter who grows while traveling to the world’s most remote places and faces the challenges of choosing a career path. It may have been overtaken by history, as is sometimes the case with documentaries, but it beautifully portrays the consequences of climate change worldwide, including in non-Western cultures.

The Anthropologist is a deeply human portrayal of a single mother field who is a scientist and her teenage daughter, and as they travel the world’s most remote places to research the consequences of climate change
The Anthropologist is a profoundly human portrayal of a single mother field who is a scientist and her teenage daughter. They travel to the world’s most remote places to research the consequences of climate change.

During the film, Katie develops from an eye-rolling 14-year-old to a thoughtful first-year college student. She travels to a Siberian town built on rapidly melting permafrost with her mother. She boards a boat to Kiribati, a small Pacific Island nation where rising oceans have engulfed communities and coconut fields. In the Peruvian Andes, where she witnesses firsthand what’s left of glaciers that have retreated up the mountains, she experiences altitude sickness.

In Kiribati, there were several new characters like a farmer who, due to environmental changes, can no longer grow the puma’s claw potato; a woman who struggles to educate Kiribati people about climate change and their options as the sea level rises.

Katie Crate is stern, delightful, and watchful—a natural anthropologist who observes her professional anthropological mother while interviewing local people, assisting them with their everyday tasks, and rejoicing with them during social events in the usual participant-observation approach.

Despite dealing with such undeniably severe issues, the documentary doesn’t seem heavy loaded with jargon or complex ideas. The film’s lightness and openness may be its most valuable feature. The documentary does not frighten you with facts; instead, it connects at a personal level.

Several documentaries and movies have attempted to depict the severity, complexity, and truth of global warming. The majority of these films try to describe climate change in its fullness, frightening or shocking audiences with the magnitude of the problem. They have action-movie-style compositions and generally include powerful sequences of hurricanes, demolishing houses, and glaciers smashing into the sea. This documentary is a light take on cultural changes due to the eminent global warming.

The Anthropologist isn’t, in the end, a feature on how to deal with climate change. It’s also not meant to persuade us that climate change exists or instill urgency in our minds. It engages audiences with fascinating real-life stories about how climate change affects humans on the planet. By the ending, the audience is not startled when the daughter attends college and follows in her mother’s footsteps. It teaches us that we should believe, like her, that gathering and conveying the stories of people whose lives and cultures are being altered by climate change is critical.

Also Read: DEEPWATER HORIZON – A TRUE LIFE CATASTROPHE

Nepal’s Scientist Dr Dhimal Honors as International Science Council Fellow

Gobinda Parasad Pokharel
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Nepal’s Scientist Dr Dhimal Honors as International Science Council Fellow

In recognition of his contributions to environmental health and climate change research, Dr. Meghnath Dhimal, a Nepali scientist, has been appointed as one of the esteemed fellows of the International Science Council (ISC). The ISC, a global organization dedicated to advancing science as a global public good, selected Dr. Dhimal as part of a cohort of 100 outstanding scientists worldwide.

Dhimal's expertise is in environmental health, focusing on the critical relationship between climate change and health.
Dhimal’s expertise is in the critical relationship between climate change and health. PHOTO Dr Dhimal

Dr Dhimal’s appointment as an ISC Fellow is the highest honor upon an individual by the council, underscoring his significant impact on promoting science for the betterment of society. He has been working for over two decades in research and policy development related to environmental health, climate change, and their intersection with public well-being.

Currently serving as the Chief Research Officer at the Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC), Dr Dhimal has played a pivotal role in advancing scientific understanding in Nepal, Maldives, Timor-Leste, and Germany, where he served as a guest scientist. His expertise lies in environmental health, focusing on the critical relationship between climate change and health.

‘With the SDGs seriously off-track mid-way through Agenda 2030 and the world facing multiple existential threats, the collective efforts of the ISC Fellows and Members to see science used for the global good have never been more important,’ ISC mentioned in its press release.

Dr Dhimal has led many research projects on environmental and climate change, non-communicable diseases, neglected tropical diseases, and health systems research in Nepal. He has also contributed to drafting policies and plans in Nepal’s health, population, and environment sectors and internationally.

Recognizing his outstanding achievements, Dr Dhimal has received several awards, including the “Young Scientists Award of the Year 2015” by the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), the “Outstanding Health Research Award 2018” from NHRC, and the “National Science, Technology, and Innovation Award of Health Sector 2022” from the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, Government of Nepal.

With over 300 technical reports and research articles published in international, peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Dhimal’s impact reaches far and wide. His collaborative efforts with various international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, UNDP, and others, have further solidified his role as a leading figure in the global scientific community.

Read more: Environment Conservation Journalism Award Nepal goes to Scientia’s contributor Gobinda

The Carbon Footprint of Large Language Models: Unmasking the Environmental Impact

Mohsin Iqbal
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The Carbon Footprint of Large Language Models: Unmasking the Environmental Impact

‍The rapid growth of large language models (LLMs), such as GPT-3 and BLOOM, has revolutionized the field of artificial intelligence (AI). These powerful models can potentially automate and enhance various aspects of human endeavour. However, there is a pressing concern regarding the environmental impact of these models. The training and operation of LLMs rely heavily on vast computational resources, resulting in a substantial carbon footprint.

In this article, we will delve into the implications of the growing carbon emissions associated with LLMs and explore strategies to mitigate their environmental impact.

The Hidden Emissions of Language Giants

The evolution of LLMs has been nothing short of meteoric. From the realms of GPT-3, boasting 175 billion parameters, to the behemoths of GPT-4 and beyond, the complexity and capabilities of these models have soared. However, with great power comes an equally significant energy demand. The training and operation of LLMS are intrinsically tied to vast computational resources, which, in turn, are powered by electricity – a commodity predominantly generated from fossil fuels.

The development and deployment of LLMs have led to a surge in energy consumption. The training process alone can emit a significant amount of carbon dioxide. For instance, Hugging Face’s BLOOM model emitted 25 metric tons of CO2 during training, and when considering the entire lifecycle, this figure doubled to 50 metric tons.

These emissions are comparable to the carbon footprint of approximately 60 flights between London and New York. It is important to note that the emissions vary depending on the energy grid used for training, with regions reliant on fossil fuels exhibiting higher pollution levels.

Google’s large language model, PaLM, accentuates the scale of the issue. With a whopping 540 billion parameters, PaLM necessitates tens of thousands of advanced high-performance chips for its training and operation, each contributing to the burgeoning carbon emissions associated with LLMs.

Hugging Face’s BLOOM model emitted 25 metric tons of CO2 during training, and when considering the entire lifecycle, this figure doubled to 50 metric tons.

The Underbelly of Innovation

The carbon emissions associated with LLMs extend beyond their operational phase. The manufacturing of the hardware required to support these models, the maintenance of data centres, and the disposal of electronic waste all contribute to their environmental impact.

Additionally, the post-training operation of LLMs continues to demand significant energy, resulting in ongoing emissions. For example, BLOOM emitted approximately 19 kilograms of CO2 daily post-launch, equivalent to the emissions generated by driving around 54 miles in an average new car.

The development and deployment of LLMs have led to a surge in energy consumption.

Towards Greener Synapses

Efforts to address the carbon footprint of LLMs are gaining traction within the tech community. Several strategies have emerged to mitigate the environmental impact of these language giants:

1. Renewable Energy Procurement

One approach to sustainability in AI is demand-side interventions, specifically load shifting. By rescheduling the demand for electricity to align with renewable energy availability, the carbon emissions associated with LLMs can be significantly reduced. Procuring renewable energy for training LLMs can result in emissions reductions of up to 40% compared to relying solely on fossil fuel-based grids. Load shifting is particularly feasible for non-latency-bound AI technologies like ML training, as compute resources can be distributed across different regions without affecting system performance.

2. Energy Tracking

To optimize energy consumption, it is crucial to track and monitor the energy usage of LLMs during both training and operation. By accurately measuring the power draw of GPUs and CPUs used for hosting computing, it becomes possible to determine the actual energy consumption. This information is vital for decision-making regarding load shifting and migration to more energy-efficient data centres. However, precise quantification of CO2 emissions remains challenging due to limited reporting of the necessary information, such as data centre details, hardware specifications, and energy mix.

3. Load Shifting Large Language Models

Demonstrating the feasibility of load shifting for LLMs is crucial to promote sustainable AI practices. Real-world use cases, such as the load shifting of BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers), have been implemented and evaluated. By automatically moving the compute load for training LLMs across different data centres based on the availability of renewable energy, carbon emissions can be effectively reduced. Using saved model checkpoints ensures continuity and functionality throughout the load-shifting process.

Conclusion

The carbon emissions resulting from the development and deployment of LLMs pose significant environmental challenges. The energy consumption associated with training and operating these models demands urgent attention. However, there are viable strategies to mitigate the carbon footprint of LLMs.

By leveraging renewable energy, implementing load-shifting techniques, and tracking energy usage, it is possible to reduce the environmental impact of LLMs while maintaining their functionality and performance. As the prevalence of large language models continues to grow, it is imperative to prioritize sustainable AI practices to ensure a greener future for this transformative technology.

References

  •  D. Amodei and D. Hernandez, “AI and Compute,” Available at link https://openai.com/blog/ai-and-compute/
  • D. Patterson, “Carbon emissions and large neural network training,” Available at link https://arxiv.org/abs/2104.10350
  • R. Schwartz, “Green AI,” Communications of the ACM, vol. 63, no. 12, pp. 54-63, 2020.
  • A. Lasse, “Carbontracker: Tracking and predicting the carbon footprint of training deep learning models,” Available at link https://arxiv.org/abs/2007.03035
  • K. Hao, “Training a single AI model can emit as much carbon as five cars in their lifetimes,” MIT Technology Review, June 6, 2019.
  • M. H. Page, “We’re getting a better idea of AI’s true carbon footprint,” MIT Technology Review, 2022.
  • P. Dhar, “The carbon impact of artificial intelligence,” Nature Machine Intelligence, vol. 2, no. 8, pp. 423-425, 2020.

Also, Read Countering climate change with the condemned cow

Is electrical energy an alternative to more carbon footprints?

Muhammad Kashif Raza
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Is electrical energy an alternative to more carbon footprints?

The entire greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that a person, business, event, or product is responsible for, directly and indirectly, are called their “carbon footprint.”  The total emissions attributable to the creation of raw materials, manufacture, usage, and end-of-life are combined to determine it. GHGs, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), each having a different capacity to trap heat in the atmosphere, may be released during the lifespan or lifecycle of a product. The global warming potential (GWP) of each gas, measured in units of mass of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e), accounts for these discrepancies. [1].

Emissions of Carbon Footprints on a Domestic Scale

Most of our houses’ carbon footprint comes from heating and cooling systems. These gadgets are frequently powered by electricity, and the energy-producing method determines how much carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere. For instance, compared to energy produced from renewable sources like solar or wind power, electricity generated from coal creates a lot more carbon dioxide.

The use of electric vehicles (EVs) to lessen transportation-related carbon emissions is growing in popularity. However, the carbon impact of EVs still depends on the electrical source used to charge them. When electric vehicles (EVs) are charged using coal-generated power, their carbon footprint is more than when they are charged using renewable energy sources.

The world’s leading energy source is fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas. However, they also contribute significantly to the annual emissions of CO2 into our atmosphere, amounting to billions of tonnes. Fossil fuels leave some of the most significant carbon footprints. Oil emits 970 grams of carbon dioxide per kWh generated, coal 820 grams, and natural gas 490 grams on a life-cycle basis. They are considered dirty energy since they directly contribute to climate change and have several detrimental environmental repercussions.[2].

Eighteen thousand terawatt-hours of energy are produced by electrical power yearly, accounting for around 40% of all energy people use. It produces more than ten gigatons of carbon dioxide annually, the most significant sectoral contribution to outputs from fossil fuels. However, various technologies, including solar, wind, nuclear, and geothermal, may provide energy without releasing any net emissions of carbon from fuel combustion.[3].

Does Electricity Produce Carbon Dioxide Emissions?

Not all Electrical Energy is produced using energy sources that are renewable and clean. In real terms, consuming fossil fuels like coal, natural gas, and oil contributes much of the world’s electrical power. Currently, sources that release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) account for 63.3 per cent of the world’s energy consumption. Burning fossil fuels produces electricity by rotating turbines or generators, which use heat to produce power. In 2021, the US generated 38 per cent of its energy from natural gas, 22 per cent from coal, and 1 per cent or less from other petroleum products.[4]. 

The production of electricity globally often involves the combustion of fossil fuels, primarily coal, oil, and natural gas shown in the figure accordingly, it results in the creation of CO2.
The production of electricity globally often involves the combustion of fossil fuels, primarily coal, oil, and natural gas, shown in the figure accordingly; it results in the creation of CO2

Heat and Electrical Energy production accounts for more global CO emissions than other industries. The heat and electricity combined caused 15.59 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide in 2018. In context, the automobile industry produced 8.26 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide in the same year, making it the second-highest emitter. 

The combustion of coal is the main contributor to over 90 per cent of carbon dioxide emissions from the production of energy worldwide. Worldwide, coal continues to be the principal fuel used to generate energy. 37 per cent of the power produced worldwide in 2019 came from coal combustion.

How can we calculate carbon emissions from electricity consumption?

Since there are many different ways to generate power, it can be challenging to determine the worldwide emissions associated with electricity use. For instance, the US employs both clean and renewable energy sources, such as geothermal, wind, solar, hydropower, biomass, and nuclear power, alongside fossil fuels like natural gas, coal, and oil.

Kilowatt-hours (kWh) are used to quantify power use, and agencies such as the U.S. Energy and Information Administration (EIA) estimate the amount of carbon dioxide released from each kWh.   

  

On a life-cycle basis, green energy's carbon footprint ranges from 12 to 48 grams of CO2 equivalent per kWh (gCO2/KWh) of electricity produced; here is a complete description of the carbon footprint of certain energy types). [5]
On a life-cycle basis, green energy’s carbon footprint ranges from 12 to 48 grams of CO2 equivalent per kWh (gCO2/KWh) of electricity produced; here is a complete description of the carbon footprint of certain energy types). [5]

How can we reduce the carbon footprint emissions?

Improving efficiency is the most straightforward approach to reducing the carbon generated during power production. However, these benefits have their boundaries, and there’s the well-known problem that increased efficiency might result in increased consumption.

 Therefore, switching to carbon-free power sources is a necessary part of the global response to climate change. This calls for a reexamination of carbon pricing as well as, in certain situations, the development of new technologies, transmission networks, and intelligent grids. Above all, though, larger-scale carbon-free generation from diverse sources is required to meet the world’s growing energy needs.

Carbon capturing and storage: Refusing to discharge CO2 from fossil fuels into the atmosphere is one option to giving them up. Using carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, CO2 is extracted from exhaust gases and stored underground. The method might cut carbon emissions from power plants by 80–90 per cent, but that amount could decrease to as low as 67 per cent when life-cycle considerations are taken into account.[6]

Conclusion

As a more sustainable and environmentally friendly substitute for fossil fuels, now the world’s primary energy source and a significant cause of greenhouse gas emissions, electrical energy has enormous promise. The article emphasises how carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology and energy storage solutions may help with the problems of using renewable energy sources and lowering carbon footprints. 

The article’s conclusion emphasises the need for people to support energy efficiency initiatives, invest in CCS technology, and hasten the adoption of renewable energy sources. It inspires people to make little, everyday adjustments to help achieve future carbon neutrality.

References:

Also Read: Cow burps heat up the Earth; Biotech company invents Bovine Beano

How Carbon Footprint Impacts Mental Health

Sadaf Sarfraz
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How Carbon Footprint Impacts Mental Health

The influence of climate change on health systems is a significant concern. It has the potential to undermine decades of progress in public health and disrupt the delivery of high-quality care. The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, flooding, and storms, as well as the emergence of new infectious diseases, pose a threat to the health of individuals and communities worldwide. 

The healthcare sector, responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, has a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change. By reducing emissions, healthcare providers can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and improve patient care, staff satisfaction, and cost savings[1]. 

In addition to preventing the initial health impacts of climate change, mitigation efforts can also lead to co-benefits such as cleaner air, increased physical activity, and more nutritious diets, which can improve overall well-being. These co-benefits can help offset the costs of mitigation interventions, making them a more attractive option for healthcare providers.

Discovering the impact of our carbon footprint can lead to feelings of guilt and shame about our past and current environmental behaviours.

What is Carbon Footprinting?

Carbon footprinting measures the total greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases, produced directly and indirectly by individuals, organizations, or activities. This measurement aims to assess the environmental impact of our actions and consumption patterns. It considers factors such as energy use, transportation, waste generation, and lifestyle choices that contribute to carbon emissions[2].

Mental Health and Carbon Footprinting

The relationship between carbon footprinting and mental health is an evolving and increasingly significant topic. As we become more conscious of our impact on the environment and the global climate crisis, we also need to understand how this heightened awareness can affect our mental well-being.

Eco-anxiety and Stress

Eco-anxiety, or climate anxiety, is a growing concern. It is the manifestation of anxiety stemming from worries about environmental degradation and climate change. As we grapple with the alarming realities of global warming, individuals may experience heightened stress, sleep disturbances, and overall emotional distress. This anxiety is fueled by the knowledge that our actions, including our carbon footprint, have contributed to this crisis[3]. 

As former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon noted, “Climate change is the single greatest threat to a sustainable future, but, at the same time, addressing the climate challenge presents a golden opportunity to promote prosperity, security, and a brighter future for all.”

mental health
The urgency of addressing climate change, coupled with the myriad ways our actions impact the environment, can lead to feelings of stress and being overwhelmed.

Guilt and Shame

Discovering the impact of our carbon footprint can lead to feelings of guilt and shame about our past and current environmental behaviours. These emotions can result in self-blame, contributing to depression and anxiety. The environmentalist Margaret Mead captured this sentiment well when she said, “We won’t have a society if we destroy the environment.”

Eco-grief

Eco-grief is a specific form of grief linked to the loss and destruction of natural environments and biodiversity. Those deeply concerned about their carbon footprint may experience grief over the state of the planet and the potential loss of ecosystems and species. As environmental activist Jamie Anderson said, “Grief is just love with no place to go.” This grief can be emotionally draining and lead to mental health issues.

Social Isolation

Attempts to reduce the carbon footprint can sometimes result in feelings of isolation. It is not uncommon for individuals to feel alienated from friends or family who don’t share their environmental concerns or are not making similar efforts to reduce their carbon footprint[4]. In the words of Lady Bird Johnson, “The environment is where we all meet, where we all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share.”

Overwhelm

The complexity of understanding and mitigating carbon footprint can be overwhelming. The urgency of addressing climate change, coupled with the myriad ways our actions impact the environment, can lead to feelings of stress and being overwhelmed[5]. Naturalist John Muir eloquently stated, 

“When we tug at a single thing in nature, we find it attached to the rest of the world.”

Inaction Paralysis

When confronted with the enormity of the climate crisis, some individuals may become paralysed by inaction. They may feel that their individual efforts would not make a difference, leading to a sense of hopelessness and contributing to mental health issues. Yet, as an unknown source reminds us,

“When you realize the impact of your carbon footprint, it can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to remember that small actions by many people can lead to significant change.”

It is essential to recognize that while carbon footprinting can have adverse effects on mental health, it can also serve as a source of motivation for some individuals. Taking meaningful action to reduce carbon footprint and being part of the solution to environmental problems can provide a sense of purpose and improve mental well-being. 

To address these mental health challenges, individuals can consider seeking support from mental health professionals who can help them cope with eco-anxiety, guilt, and other emotional responses to climate-related concerns. Additionally, engaging in support networks and community organizations focused on environmental issues can provide a sense of belonging and empowerment, which can counteract some of the negative mental health impacts of carbon footprinting.

References:

  • Hanmin, D. et al., Do carbon emissions impact the health of residents? Considering China’s industrialization and urbanization. Science of The Total Environment, 2021. 758: p. 143688.
  • Selin, N. Eckley (2023, September 25). carbon footprint. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/carbon-footprint.
  • Steven, T., Anxiety disorders, climate change, and the challenges ahead: Introduction to the special issue. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 2020. 76: p. 102313.
  • Xu, R., et al., Wildfires, Global Climate Change, and Human Health. New England Journal of Medicine, 2020. 383(22): p. 2173-2181.
  • Julie, D., Kate, and W. Philip, Does biodiversity improve mental health in urban settings? Medical Hypotheses, 2011. 76(6): p. 877-880.

Also, Read: Impacts of Carbon Footprints on the Water Cycle of Earth

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