Biological Treatment Technologies: Bioremediation
While the term 'biological treatment' traditionally refers to sewage and wastewater facilities, a newer science known as bioremediation broadens the use of living organisms to concentrate or decompose contaminants. The ..
Biological Treatment Technologies: Co-Metabolism
While traditional bioremediation can degrade most organic elements, a newer process called co-metabolism is required for certain chemical contaminants, such as synthetic organics, pesticides and detergents. The key to s..
Biological Treatment Technologies: Microorganisms and Metabolism
From the polar ice caps to the bottom of the sea, microorganisms that provide the backbone of biological treatment are becoming our greatest ally in the quest for a cleaner environment. The microbial kingdom is comprise..
Biological Treatment Technologies: Phytoremediation
Traditional bioremediation uses microbes to degrade organic substances. However, toxic metals are already in an elemental form, and cannot be degraded further. Phytoremediation, a fascinating extension of bioremediatio..
Biosphere II
Paul Ehrlich, best known for his work on population growth, talks about Biosphere II and efforts to use technology to substitute for natural ecosystems (which he says are the most important part of our environment).
Carbon Dioxide and Climate Change
Scientist and climate change expert Michael Oppenheimer discusses research into the relationship between climate change and carbon dioxide, beginning with computer models in the late 1950's, through the analysis of ice c..
Career Focused on the Environment, A
Former Sierra Club president David Brower talks about the origins of his interest in the environment. He also discusses his belief that, while humans are the first species to learn how to destroy the environment, we are ..
Chemical Treatment Technologies: Benign by Design, Biomonitoring, and Enforcement
The future of chemical treatment technology is striving to attain the reduction of waste at its source, and seeking to improve the monitoring of that which is discharged.
Chemical Treatment Technologies: Chemical Principles
Chemicals provide the building blocks for everything in our physical world. Uncontrolled, their misuse can result in tragedy. As a safeguard against potential dangers, treatment processes are being implemented to mitig..
Chemical Treatment Technologies: Electrolysis
The oxidation/reduction process is applied by industries in several unique and environmentally beneficial ways. The most frequently used technique is electrolysis. This is especially common in the photographic processi..