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From Soot to Ink – How Pollution Becomes a Tool for Art

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Ricardo Gomez Angel)

Air pollution often resembles dense fog covering cities, and artists frequently use it as inspiration for powerful, mystical photographs. While it may appear abstract and mesmerizing in images, the reality is far more serious—air pollution is responsible for the highest number of premature deaths worldwide.

Asia, the most populous continent on Earth, is home to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world—India. This rapid economic growth has positioned India among the countries with the most polluted air. Data shows that its capital, New Delhi, has the worst air quality among all global capitals. The primary sources of this pollution include vehicle emissions, cooking, power plants, heating, and industrial facilities.

Fine particles, known as PM 2.5, are among the most widespread pollutants, particularly in urban areas. These tiny particles measure only up to 2.5 micromillimeters, allowing them to quickly enter the lungs and bloodstream, leading to serious health problems, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. PM 2.5 particles encompass a wide range of substances, and one of their primary components is soot. Soot forms as a result of burning fossil fuels, biomass, and chemicals containing tiny particles of unburned carbon.

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Although India experiences high soot concentrations, this issue has inspired groundbreaking innovation. The MIT Media Lab, a research center at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, developed KAALINK technology designed to capture soot from the air. This small device is installed in the exhaust pipes of vehicles or generators and can capture up to 95 percent of soot particles. Thanks to this innovation, the startup Graviky Labs has created an entirely new product—an eco-friendly ink called AIR-INK.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Olga Thelavart)

AIR-INK repurposes soot emissions generated in industrial and transportation processes instead of relying on fossil fuels, as with traditional inks. This process not only reduces dependence on fossil resources but also improves air quality by capturing particles that would otherwise remain in the atmosphere.

The KAALINK technology can collect enough emissions in just 45 minutes of operation to produce approximately 30 milliliters of ink. So far, the startup has developed two products: a marker with tip sizes ranging from 2 to 50 millimeters and printing ink. The 30-milliliter ink supply is sufficient to fill one marker or one small bottle of printing ink.

Once the soot is collected, it undergoes a purification process to remove harmful substances, such as heavy metals and carcinogenic materials, ensuring the final product is safe for use.

This article began with an artistic note, and it will end the same way. While soot in the air has long inspired artists to create surreal and mystical photographs, its fusion with environmental awareness introduces an entirely new dimension to the world of art. AIR-INK allows soot, once a harmful byproduct of industry and transportation, to become a valuable material for artistic creations. What was once a symbol of pollution is now transformed into a tool for sustainable innovation.

Prepared by Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Transformation From Waste to New Products

Photo: Courtesy of Miodrag Ristić

P aper is often presented as an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic, especially when it comes to packaging. However, even paper waste, if not properly managed, remains a source of pollution in its own way. Printing houses, as a sector that works with large amounts of paper daily, are most familiar with the challenges of managing this type of waste.

Photo: Courtesy of Miodrag Ristić

Miodrag Ristić has been in the printing business for many years and knows exactly how much paper waste remains at the end of a working day. Paper is often perceived as a more eco-friendly material due to its easier recyclability, but our interviewee does not share this view and believes that this process is not the most efficient choice. As he explains, the greatest pollution in the paper industry occurs during the recycling process, which is also highly energy-intensive, leading to greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition to the environmental impact, the financial aspect of paper waste should also be considered. The compensation for purchased waste paper has been decreasing over the years, and if this trend continues, printing houses will soon have to pay for its disposal.

“Sometimes, we deal with expensive types of paper or cardboard that go through all stages of production, only for a significant percentage of that valuable material to end up in the recycling bin. The usual question people ask themselves when they notice this anomaly is – if this has been happening for centuries, in almost every printing house worldwide, why hasn’t someone already solved it?” says Ristić.

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He cites this inertia as the first and most significant obstacle to any innovation. However, the family-owned printing house Deto recognized different possibilities and dared to introduce waste paper into an alternative process instead of sending it for recycling.

Officially founded in March 1992, the company carries on a tradition spanning more than a century, as many family members have been engaged in printing, bookbinding, publishing, journalism, and graphic design over the years.

“You could say printing ink runs in our veins, and that’s probably not just a metaphor, since for the past twenty years, the Ristić family has literally lived and worked under the same roof,” our interviewee jokingly adds.

Throughout its existence, the printing house has undergone several phases of development, but as Miodrag notes, they have always been unique. They started collaborating with marketing agencies very early, developing their own products, and incorporating digital tools into their processes. 

The inspiration for their idea stemmed from frustration over the environmental and financial challenges related to paper waste. Recognizing the issue of waste generated in the production process, they decided to experiment—how could they turn a narrow strip of waste cardboard into a box? The result surprised and delighted them, prompting them to share a photo of the box on Pinterest.

They modestly state that, thanks to fortunate circumstances, the image achieved great success and inspired them to consider further applications of this idea. Today, decorative and promotional boxes made from surplus technological paper are one of their most sought-after products.

The significance of this idea and the creation of new boxes is best illustrated by the fact that they produce between 10 and 20 tons of such waste annually. As Miodrag emphasizes, they have entered a race where the goal is to reclaim as much material as possible from this waste and turn it back into a useful product.

Prepared by Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

A Potato That Defies Global Warming – How Science Is Shaping Climate-Resilient Food

Photo-illustration: Freepik (frimufilms - AI generator)

A farmer is the foundation of every society’s stability and security. While climate change affects nearly every sector, agriculture is among the most vulnerable—as it relies on nature more than any other activity. Changing weather patterns bring great uncertainty: days pass in anxious waiting for a single drop of rain, or the soil turns into a muddy river. Winters are getting warmer, causing plants to bloom too early, only to be destroyed weeks later by spring frost.

There is growing concern, especially for staple crops, such as potatoes—a symbol of everyday food around the world.

Throughout history, the world has adapted to change—plants, people, and entire ecosystems have evolved with nature. However, with increasingly extreme and unpredictable climate conditions, plants’ natural ability to adapt is no longer sufficient. That is why scientists across the globe are searching for solutions—not just through cultivation in controlled environments, but by enhancing the crops themselves.

A team from the University of Illinois succeeded in genetically modifying potatoes, making them more resistant to global warming. Remarkably, the tuber mass increased by 30 percent, even under heat wave conditions. Specifically, while the potato plants were still in the early vegetative growth stage, the heat wave kept temperatures above 35°C for four consecutive days, with peaks surpassing 38°C on two occasions.

Why are such scientific efforts important?

Plants that once thrived under typical conditions are now facing new challenges, and one of them is photorespiration—a process that reduces plant yields, especially at high temperatures. During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to produce food and oxygen for growth. But during photorespiration, the opposite occurs. At high temperatures, the enzyme Rubisco can “confuse” oxygen for carbon dioxide.

As scientists explain, this results in the production of a harmful byproduct—glycolate, which consumes the plant’s energy that would otherwise go toward growth, leading to reduced yield.

While this is not a new phenomenon, in the past photorespiration occurred in about 25 percent of cases, when conditions were more favorable. However, as temperatures rise, photorespiration now happens much more frequently. Plants must use more energy to repair this mistake instead of using that energy to grow and develop fruit.

To reduce the rate of photorespiration, scientists are adding extra genes that allow plants to process harmful glycolate more efficiently, thereby saving energy for growth—even under high-temperature conditions.

Katarina Vuinac

How to Achieve More Efficient Wastewater Management in Serbia

Photo-ilustration: Unsplash (Ivan Bandura)

Wastewater management in Serbia still lags behind European standards, and the number of treatment facilities remains far below the necessary level. In order to reach acceptable standards for protecting watercourses and align with European Union directives, it is essential to accelerate and improve this process significantly. However, the implementation of wastewater treatment plant projects faces numerous obstacles, including lack of transparency, complex bureaucratic procedures, and unclear criteria for fund allocation and technology selection.

These issues are thoroughly analyzed in a publication by the Regulatory Institute for Renewable Energy and the Environment (RERI) titled “Black Book: Murky Waters,” which summarizes months of research and tracking of investment flows in wastewater treatment plants.

Photo-ilustration: Unsplash (Martin Martz)

According to Jovan Rajić, founder and head of RERI’s legal team, the research team initiated administrative procedures in seven cities to gather information on the implementation of wastewater treatment plant projects. However, despite requests for access to public information, city administrations refused to disclose the data, citing the confidentiality clause of the contract between the Government of Serbia and the German Development Bank (KfW).

“The ‘Black Book’ provides concrete evidence and documentation showing what happens when you are unable to obtain key information from the relevant authorities, even though they are legally obligated to share it with the public,” explains Rajić.

The decision-making system regarding where treatment plants will be built is also unclear. On paper, priority is given to municipalities that have made the most progress in project preparation, but these criteria are often vague and open to subjective interpretation. Additionally, there is no clearly defined public procurement process that would enable the selection of the most efficient and cost-effective technology.

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Lack of Transparency and a Prearranged Economy

Our interviewee emphasizes that their months-long attempts to obtain relevant information have been unsuccessful, with responsibility being shifted from one institution to another. He also highlights the issue of the state allowing private companies to independently decide where they will collect and analyze data, which in practice leads to delays in project implementation.

“The main issue is the lack of transparency, from the selection of municipalities that will receive treatment plants to the conditions under which loans are obtained and from whom. It is also unacceptable for contracts to be classified as state secrets, given that these are investments of public importance,” says Rajić.

He adds that these capital investments are crucial for the long-term efficiency of the water treatment system, yet the domestic market has already been divided among certain companies.

“There is no healthy market competition, public procurement is being neglected, and there is no body that would analyze and select the most suitable technology for the coming decades. Everything happens behind closed doors, with no public insight into how funds allocated for this sector are being spent,” concludes Rajić.

The Need for Reform and a Coordinating Body

Serbia currently has around 40 wastewater treatment plants, but only one-third operate at full capacity. To meet European standards, the country needs to build as many as 359 facilities. However, the centralized management system and the lack of a unified coordinating body represent major obstacles in this process.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Alexander Schimmeck)

The current wastewater management model relies on public utility companies, which are accountable to local governments. However, municipalities lack sufficient funds of their own and depend on central institutions, further complicating the decision-making process.

Experts suggest a regional approach to wastewater management, while infrastructure should remain local and decentralized. Such an organizational model would facilitate better information sharing, expertise exchange, and project coordination, ultimately leading to more efficient implementation. Establishing a single coordinating body, as foreseen by the Water Law, could contribute to more effective and transparent sector management and accelerate the construction of necessary infrastructure.

Wastewater management in Serbia requires urgent reforms and greater transparency. The decision-making process and fund allocation must be public and clear, and contracts should not be classified as confidential when dealing with projects of vital importance to citizens and the environment. Additionally, better coordination between local governments and central authorities is crucial to ensuring the continuity and long-term sustainability of investments, experts from RERI emphasize.

Prepared by: Milena Maglovski

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Big Plans for Batteries in Europe – Will They Come True?

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Frank Wang)

Due to the key role of batteries, especially in the automotive industry, many companies are striving to start production in Europe. The announced production capacities by 2030 exceed two terawatt-hours annually. However, a forecast by the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI) indicates that these capacities surpass the actual demand.

Previous years have shown that the realization of all announced projects is very unlikely, leading the Institute to develop a methodology for assessing the probability of battery production announcements and evaluating the risks associated with these projects.

The growing demand for batteries, primarily from the mobility sector (e.g., electric vehicles), has led to a significant increase in the required production volumes. Europe, mainly due to its developed automotive industry, is facing a major expansion of its battery production capacities. Currently, its share of global production capacity is only about 10 percent, while European battery demand accounts for as much as 25 percent of global demand. Therefore, the European market remains heavily dependent on imports of battery cells, especially from China.

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Withdrawal from Plans

Given the estimated European demand, which could reach between 800 and 1,300 GWh by 2030, the announced two terawatt-hours of production capacity would represent a significant surplus.

“One of the reasons is that the electromobility market is developing more slowly than expected. In addition, the growing overcapacity in Asia is leading to a further decline in battery cell prices. The initial difficulties of the first European production plants have further undermined optimism, resulting in many announced projects being already withdrawn,” ISI reports.

They emphasize that despite numerous challenges, Europe can remain competitive thanks to political initiatives such as the new Battery Regulation (which includes requirements for carbon footprint disclosure and battery recycling regulations).

Currently, postponed or completely failed battery cell production projects in Europe are estimated to total more than 700 GWh of capacity. In Germany alone, these projects amount to around 240 GWh. In Sweden, about 110 GWh of capacity has been canceled or questioned. In Romania, Norway, and the United Kingdom, projects totaling up to 30 GW have been canceled, mostly due to weak financial support or underdeveloped markets. Canceled projects have also been reported in Slovakia and Finland.

The study notes that European battery production will most likely significantly lag behind announcements. Results show that only between 54 percent and 75 percent of the announced capacities are likely to materialize, which would amount to between 1.2 and 1.7 TWh annually by 2030.

When expected construction delays, lower production yields due to manufacturing waste, and limited capacity utilization are taken into account, the realistic factory output by 2030 is estimated at only 0.8 to 1.1 TWh annually. Despite numerous challenges, the study indicates a reduction in Europe’s dependence on imported battery cells.

Energy portal

Energy System Collapse Across the Peninsula – Power Outage Paralyzes Spain and Portugal

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (viktor-mogilat)

On April 28 at 12:30 p.m. local time, Spain and Portugal were struck by one of the most extensive power outages in recent decades, leaving millions of people without electricity, water, internet access, and under a state of emergency declared by the Ministry of the Interior. A complete collapse of the energy system halted public transportation, blocked airports, disrupted numerous services, including metro systems and elevators, and caused widespread chaos across the Iberian Peninsula. Although a significant portion of the power supply was restored and transportation services resumed by the following morning, the cause of the major outage remains unclear, despite operators denying the possibility of a cyberattack or sabotage.

Consequences in Daily Life

In both countries, which are highly dependent on digital infrastructure, the impact was immediate and severe. Metro systems in Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Porto came to a complete standstill, similar to a recent incident in Chile, leaving passengers trapped in tunnels. Hundreds of trains were halted, including high-speed services between Madrid and Barcelona. City streets descended into chaos due to non-functional traffic lights, while major airports such as Lisbon and Madrid suspended all operations.

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Hospitals operated on backup generators, but many medical procedures had to be cancelled. The lack of water supply and internet access further complicated the situation in healthcare facilities and private households. Authorities appealed to citizens to avoid calling emergency services unless absolutely necessary, to prevent overloading the system. In addition, police presence on the streets was significantly increased, as security risks tend to rise during widespread power outages, both in terms of traffic incidents and potential criminal activity.

The blackout also affected tens of thousands of tourists who happened to be in the region. Airports cancelled or delayed hundreds of flights. Although passengers were not entitled to financial compensation due to the extraordinary nature of the event, airlines were obligated to provide meals and, if necessary, temporary accommodation, according to international media reports.

While the basic functions of the energy systems have been largely restored today, following a near-complete blackout in Portugal and a widespread outage across many regions of Spain – including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and numerous other cities – the question remains: how could such a massive and simultaneous failure occur in two interconnected yet technically stable power grids.

Energy portal

EU Aviation Sector Almost Reached Pre-Pandemic Emission Levels – How to Reduce Pollution?

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a decrease in people’s mobility, resulting in a significant drop in emissions from the aviation sector. However, the latest data shows that by 2024, emissions have almost returned to pre-pandemic levels, despite efforts to decarbonize the sector. Moreover, airlines still do not pay the full cost for the pollution they cause.

The organization Transport & Environment (T&E) believes that in order to reduce emissions, key European legislation needs to be expanded. This would also open the opportunity to mobilize billions of euros for the green transition.

Detailed figures show that in 2024, the European aviation sector achieved 96 percent of the number of flights and 98 percent of the emissions compared to 2019. In total, there were 8.4 million flights, resulting in the emission of 187.6 million tons of CO₂.

Regarding responsibility for pollution, there is a significant gap. Airlines only pay for emissions from flights within the European Economic Area (EEA), the United Kingdom, and Switzerland. Yet, flights operating on other routes—those that are the largest polluters—are exempt from this system.

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Had the European Union and United Kingdom’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) been extended to cover all flights during 2024, it is estimated that an additional 7.5 billion euros could have been generated. These funds would have been significant for investments in developing green technologies, such as sustainable aviation fuels or electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft.

However, airlines continue to promote the global Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which allows for emissions to be offset through the purchase of carbon credits worldwide. This system charges far less for emissions compared to the expanded EU ETS. According to T&E, relying on CORSIA is not a good option, either environmentally or financially. Instead, expanding the EU ETS to cover all flights is seen as the best option for European economies.

The European aviation sector has still not fully taken responsibility for its emissions, concludes the latest analysis by Transport & Environment (T&E).

Energy portal

China Develops New Strategy: Electric Vehicles as Standard by 2035

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (andreas160578)

The Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China, in cooperation with nine other government departments, has released a new circular document setting the goal for fully electric vehicles to become the dominant choice in new car sales by 2035.

In order to accelerate the green transition, China will further promote the use of alternative fuel vehicles, environmentally friendly ships and airplanes, as well as the introduction of green and low-carbon solutions in postal and express delivery sectors.

The document also emphasizes the country’s determination to widely implement eco-friendly heavy trucks and to establish an efficient green fuel supply system for the transport sector by the same year.

To support this transformation, China plans to increase financial assistance through various mechanisms, including special local government bonds, green loans, and the issuance of green bonds.

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Deeper Integration of Transport and Energy Infrastructure

China has announced an ambitious plan to transform its transport sector, aiming to establish by 2035 a modern energy system based on clean and low-carbon energy sources, technological innovation, and smart, sustainable practices. According to the Ministry of Transport, this strategy represents a key step toward deeper integration of transport and energy infrastructure.

Special focus will be placed on the development and use of clean energy along and near key transport infrastructure—including railways, highways, and seaports.

In the medium term, by 2027, a coordinated development mechanism between the sectors is planned to be established, laying the foundations for further reforms. It is expected that electricity will account for at least 10 percent of final energy consumption in transport, while the installed capacity of non-fossil energy production near key transport infrastructure will exceed five million kilowatts.

In the next steps, the Ministry of Transport, in cooperation with other departments, will develop action plans focused on implementing pilot projects, strengthening supervision, and evaluating performance. All these measures, according to the Ministry, are part of China’s broader strategy to achieve long-term carbon neutrality.

Energy portal

Strategically Placed Solar Panels Do Not Disrupt Agriculture – Food and Electricity on the Same Plot

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (michael-fortsch)

Instead of choosing between food production and electricity generation, farmers could potentially benefit from both, as confirmed by a new study from Michigan State University.

It is not necessary to convert entire arable lands into solar farms; instead, panels can be strategically placed on lower-yield sections of fields. This approach helps preserve agricultural production, conserve water, and enhance farmers’ financial stability. Additionally, the panels can be installed in specific ways—elevated or spaced out—to allow more light to reach the crops while still generating electricity.

The study, published on the Michigan State University website and conducted by doctoral student Jake Stid, analyzed the effects of combining solar panels with crop production using satellite imagery and land-use data spanning the past 25 years in California. His research revealed that farmers who allocated part of their land to solar panels were more financially stable per acre than those who either solely farmed or fully converted their land to solar use.

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Stid and his team utilized previously published data on solar panel distribution in California, cross-referenced with crop prices, cultivation costs, and electricity revenues to calculate the profitability of different land-use models. Their findings indicate that the combined approach is the most economically resilient.

Rather than viewing agriculture and solar energy as mutually exclusive, the research proposes a collaborative model—where solar panels and crops coexist on the same land. In this model, a smaller portion of the field is dedicated to solar installations, while the majority remains in use for planting. This enables farmers to generate additional income from electricity sales, while also reducing costs related to irrigation, fertilizers, and agricultural equipment. The panels can also reduce evaporation and shield the soil from extreme weather conditions.

At a time when both the agriculture and energy sectors are facing shared challenges—from climate disruptions to rising costs—the synergy between these sectors offers a promising path forward.

Energy portal

Scientists from Vinča Designing a Multifunctional Filter for Wastewater Purification and Hydrogen Production

Photo: Project team HYDIS
Photo: Project team HYDIS

Imagine a piece of paper floating on wastewater containing harmless and natural particles. The sun activates these particles, and beneath the film, a miracle occurs. Bacteria are eliminated, pesticides, dyes, and other pollutants in the water are degraded, and as a result, hydrogen is produced, which can be used as fuel. This innovative idea is at the core of research within the HYDIS project, funded by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia.

The project brings together scientists from the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, the Institute of Chemistry, Technology, and Metallurgy, the Innovation Center of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, and the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy. The pollution issue in Serbia is highly relevant, and the HYDIS project is designed to contribute to solving this problem. The goal is to improve the quality of life by reducing pollution and utilizing alternative energy sources, such as hydrogen. At the same time, the problem of infections and the resistance of many bacterial strains to common antimicrobial agents necessitates new solutions. Using innovative materials activated by sunlight represents a significant step toward a healthier life for citizens and a more environmentally friendly approach to combating pollution.

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The HYDIS project focuses on developing nanomaterials based on metal oxides and natural organic compounds. Materials such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, known for their role in protecting the skin from UV radiation in sunscreens, are activated by sunlight in this research to be used for wastewater purification, even during winter months. Within the project, these metal oxides are combined with natural compounds isolated from plants, creating a material that, under the influence of sunlight, destroys pathogenic microorganisms, breaks down organic pollutants, and produces hydrogen— the fuel of the future.

Project team HYDIS

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Long-Term Profitability of Renewable Energy in the Shadow of High Upfront Costs

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

The decision to transition to renewable energy sources as an alternative to fossil fuels is often questioned due to concerns about financial viability, with high initial costs being the primary factor. However, new research published by EMBER shows that such investments, despite their upfront costs, bring significant economic benefits by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, stabilizing energy prices, and creating energy independence. In fact, the long-term profitability of renewables outweighs the short-term costs.

Dave Jones, Director of Global Insights at EMBER, illustrated this through a simple analogy, stating that fossil fuels are like renting a house, while renewables are like owning one—fossil fuels require ongoing payments, whereas renewables do not incur such recurring costs in the long run.

Almost 75 percent of the world’s population lives in countries that rely on fossil fuel imports. One example is Japan, which depends heavily on imports to meet 87 percent of its total energy demand. Following Japan are South Korea with 81 percent, Turkey with 69 percent, and Germany with 67 percent.

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Why Are Imports of Renewables More Profitable in the Long Run?

The study notes that the cost of importing solar panels can be recovered in just one year, compared to the cost of importing gas for power generation.

Specifically, importing one gigawatt of solar panels costs 100 million dollars and can generate 1.5 TWh of electricity per year—equivalent to the energy generated from importing gas. However, solar panels are a one-time purchase, whereas gas imports are a recurring expense.

Although there are additional installation costs for solar panels—around 0.50 dollars per watt—solar panels remain more cost-effective in the long term.

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

The report highlights that the world is already producing enough solar and wind energy that, if used to power electric vehicles, could replace global gasoline consumption.

In 2024, global gasoline consumption (the energy needed to power all gasoline vehicles) amounted to 14,042 TWh. However, internal combustion engines in gasoline-powered vehicles only convert about 24 percent of that energy into movement, with the rest mostly lost as heat. This means only a small fraction of gasoline energy actually powers the vehicles.

In contrast, the same year saw 4,625 TWh of energy generated from solar and wind. Electric vehicles are far more efficient than gasoline vehicles, capable of using up to 84 percent of the available energy. This means that the majority of energy from solar and wind can effectively power electric vehicles.

Although renewable energy sources have not yet fully replaced fossil fuels, data demonstrating their long-term profitability can encourage further investment. With continued investment and development, renewables have the potential to become a key alternative to fossil fuels.

Energy portal

From Waste To Fashion Show

Photo: Humana Nova

Every year, tens of millions of tons of textiles are produced worldwide. The textile industry, which has become highly dynamic in the 21st century, impacts the environment like never before. Textile production is among the major polluters responsible for an enormous amount of water consumption, with used water being significantly contaminated by chemicals from the dyeing and fabric treatment processes. The fashion industry contributes to carbon dioxide emissions through its production processes and global logistics while simultaneously generating vast amounts of textile waste that ends up decomposing instead of being recycled or reused. Moreover, the business model known as fast fashion encourages excessive consumerism, as trends change rapidly, making clothing outdated in no time, leading to an accumulation of waste. The focus is placed on quantity rather than the durability of products, and this consumption pattern is also significantly affecting our region. However, there is another way – sustainable fashion.

Humana Nova was established as a response to social and environmental challenges identified at the beginning of 2011 in Međimurje County, in the far north of Croatia. A group of dedicated individuals, inspired by study trips across the European Union and examples of good practice in social integration, recognized the high unemployment rate among people with disabilities, members of the Roma minority, and middle-aged and older seamstresses who had lost their jobs due to the collapse of the textile industry. Aware that textiles were a major pollutant and were not being systematically collected then, the team decided to launch a project that would simultaneously address social and environmental issues.

From the very foundation of the Humana Nova Social Cooperative, the emphasis has been on integrating individuals from marginalized groups and developing a circular economy model. Establishing a sewing workshop and a textile sorting facility proved to be an effective solution. A key decision was also to register the organization first as a social enterprise and later as a non-profit company, which required reinvesting the first 70 percent and 100 percent of the generated profit into further business development.

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A Sustainable Future Through Textile Recycling and Repurposing

This social cooperative operates in two facilities: a sorting center and a sewing workshop. The textile sorting center first receives clothing donated by citizens at the site or collected through partnerships with private companies and in collaboration with municipal enterprises and initiatives organized in schools and kindergartens. Afterward, a team of workers sorts the clothing and fabrics based on their quality and potential for further use. Usable and well-preserved items end up in a second-hand shop, where they are sold at affordable prices. At the same time, some materials from the sorting facility are set aside for redesign and the production of new items. Unique clothing pieces purchased from the shop can be returned to the sorting center after use. Donating textiles to organizations such as the Red Cross, social work centers, or dog shelters is also an option.

Additionally, there is another form of textile repurposing. After further processing, some materials are used for industrial cloth production or sent for further recycling, where they are transformed into felt, one of the oldest types of fabric known to humankind. Currently, secondary gas production is also in development, in cooperation with partner companies.

In the sewing workshop, employees work daily to produce various clothing and other items made from recycled and eco-friendly materials. The creative team also organizes workshops where children and adults can learn how textiles can be repurposed into new products. In this way, Humana Nova directly reduces pollution and raises community awareness about the importance of responsible resource management.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Major Carbon Capture Investment to Create Thousands of Jobs in the UK

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

The United Kingdom has launched the construction of a major carbon capture and storage (CCS) system, expected to create over 2,000 new jobs. The project is part of the UK Government’s broader „Powering Up Britain” strategy, aimed at accelerating the transition to clean energy, strengthening domestic manufacturing, and opening new opportunities for the workforce, according to the official government website.

A key step in implementing this plan is the signing of an agreement between the UK Government and the Italian energy company Eni, which will invest around two billion pounds in procurement and construction as part of the Liverpool Bay Carbon Capture and Storage project. This initiative covers the North Wales and Northwest England regions.

The project includes the development of a comprehensive CCS network, supported by 21.7 billion pounds in government funding. It will enable the decarbonization of sectors such as waste-to-energy, cement manufacturing, and hydrogen production.

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Planning Reforms and International Collaboration

At the same time, the UK Government has announced reforms to energy infrastructure planning to accelerate the deployment of clean energy sources such as solar and wind power, as well as nuclear facilities. Previously, administrative delays and vague guidelines often hindered the progress of renewable energy projects. The new approach removes these obstacles and offers investors greater legal certainty.

In addition to domestic efforts, the UK has also announced an international initiative—the Global Clean Power Alliance. This alliance aims to bring countries together to strengthen global clean energy supply chains.

According to data from 2024, 80 percent of global electricity generation growth came from renewable and nuclear sources, and the UK alone attracted nearly 44 billion pounds in private clean energy investments since July of that year.

Energy portal

Start of Drafting the Law on Protection Against Non-Ionizing Radiation

Foto-ilustracija: Freepik (OpenAI)

The Ministry of Environmental Protection has announced the initiation of the drafting process for the Law on Protection Against Non-Ionizing Radiation, along with the presentation of the Baseline Principles which will serve as the foundation for further development of this legislation.

The Baseline Principles document highlights the existing challenges and issues in the implementation of the current Law on Protection Against Non-Ionizing Radiation. One such issue concerns the inadequate interpretation and application of fundamental principles, such as the principle of prohibition—which stipulates that exposure to non-ionizing radiation is prohibited except under specific circumstances. Additionally, the document points to inconsistent application of legal regulations and environmental impact assessments.

It is emphasized that there is a need to define the format, scope, and content of the expert environmental burden assessment—a document that should include all necessary data and information related to protection from non-ionizing radiation. Another challenge involves the need to improve systematic monitoring of non-ionizing radiation levels in the environment.

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Raising public awareness is also identified as a key priority. The goal is to bring the topic of non-ionizing radiation protection closer to the general public through the presentation of relevant information and results, thereby increasing knowledge and awareness.

The need for stronger cooperation with experts in the field of non-ionizing radiation protection is underlined as essential for enhancing and implementing activities in this area. Moreover, conducting a larger number of joint inspection activities remains a challenge, mainly due to a lack of adequate human resources, in accordance with the provisions of the Law on Inspection Oversight.

Public Consultation and Submission of Comments

The Ministry invites all interested members of the public to submit their written proposals and suggestions regarding the Baseline Principles by May 16, 2025, using the official comment submission form, available [here].

Completed forms should be sent via email to: njzzakon@eko.gov.rs, or by post to:

Ministry of Environmental Protection, Omladinskih brigada St. No. 1, 11070 Belgrade

Subject: Environmental Management Sector – Department for Noise, Vibration, and Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection

The designated consultation coordinator is Natalija Kocić, from the Department for Noise, Vibration, and Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection.

For more information, she can be contacted at: +381 11 3131 226.

Energy portal

Montenegro’s 2024 Energy Balance – Hydrological Challenges and Increased Electricity Consumption

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

Montenegro’s annual energy balance for 2024 revealed that the country produced less electricity than planned, while consumption increased.

A total of 3,446.6 GWh of electricity was generated, which is 4.4 percent less than projected and nearly 15 percent less compared to 2023. However, the amount of electricity produced was sufficient to meet domestic market needs.

The main factor behind the production decline was an unfavorable hydrological balance – a lack of precipitation and a dry year, which significantly reduced output from hydropower plants. Specifically, the Perućica Hydropower Plant achieved around 93 percent of its planned production, while the Piva HPP was close to its target but still recorded significantly lower results than the previous year. Small hydropower plants generated only 83 percent of the planned amount.

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As for wind power plants, they produced about 89 percent of the planned energy, while solar power plants reached 59 percent of their target. Although solar energy fell short of expectations, it’s worth noting that production from this source more than tripled compared to the previous year, indicating room for further growth.

The Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant delivered the best performance, generating 1,337.84 GWh – about 20 GWh more than planned.

In 2024, electricity consumption in Montenegro rose by approximately six percent above the projected levels.

By the end of the year, the country’s total installed electricity generation capacity stood at 1,090 MW – with hydropower plants accounting for the largest share (705 MW), followed by thermal power plants (225 MW), wind farms (118 MW), and solar power plants (43 MW).

Energy portal

When AI Answers, the Planet Pays: The Truth About Electricity and Water Consumption

We hardly noticed when ChatGPT, DeepSeek, and other AI chatbots snuck into every segment of our lives – from planning family trips to solving complicated work tasks, and even dealing with love problems.

Life has undoubtedly become easier with this sophisticated technology, but if we rely on it too much, the question is whether we’ll manage to preserve our curiosity, creativity, and ability to think independently.

Whether out of fear that artificial intelligence will soon become the dominant form of intelligence, or from a need to maintain some human-like contact with their digital interlocutor, many users feel compelled to thank AI chatbots for their help. While this may seem like a small, charming gesture, it actually comes at a cost. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, recently shared a fact that shook the public: daily thank-yous to ChatGPT have so far cost the company tens of millions of dollars, with the largest part of that expense attributed to electricity and water usage.

The Digital Giant That Consumes Resources

To understand why, we need to look at how AI chatbots work. Every time we ask a question, data is processed on powerful servers housed in massive data centers that consume enormous amounts of electricity. The so-called “training” of a large language model, such as GPT, according to a study from the University of Michigan, can consume up to 1,287 megawatt-hours of electricity – enough to power an average household in the U.S. for 120 years.

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay (Yamu jay)

What’s even more concerning is the use of water. Servers not only require power but must also be intensively cooled – a process that often involves large quantities of water. A study from the University of California, Riverside, shows that an average user who sends 20 to 50 queries to ChatGPT per day indirectly consumes up to half a liter of water. Globally, this amounts to millions of liters every day, and just training the GPT-3 model used about 700,000 liters of water.

In a world where most electricity still comes from fossil fuels, and water is becoming an increasingly precious and scarce resource, these figures can’t be ignored. Perhaps it’s time to think more carefully about when and how we interact with digital assistants.

AI as the Planet’s Ally

But it’s not all bad – artificial intelligence also has a bright, highly useful side, especially when it comes to environmental protection.

Thanks to data analysis, AI enables more precise planning and use of resources across almost all industries. It can also suggest more efficient transportation routes, optimize electricity consumption in buildings and homes, or assist in developing heating and cooling systems that are less harmful to the planet.

AI is also a great teacher – capable of explaining how to properly sort waste, how to make useful things from what we would otherwise throw away, and how to raise environmental awareness in children, adults, and decision-makers alike.

So, the question is not whether we should use AI, but how to do it responsibly. Instead of mindless chatting, we should aim for every interaction to have a purpose, helping to solve specific problems – and save pleasantries like thank-yous for our fellow humans.

Milena Maglovski

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