Reinventing industry: carbon capture technologies lead the charge against climate change

With new technology, industrial CO₂ can be turned into valuable products at the source. © BOY ANTHONY, Shutterstock.com

Researchers are testing a new method of capturing CO2 from energy-intensive industries and converting it into valuable chemicals and fuels. By Anthony King In a potential game-changer for heavy industry, a magnesium-oxide mine in Greece received seven special containers in November 2024 with equipment designed to capture CO₂ and transform it into a valuable chemical, … Read more

Cracking the quantum code: light and glass are set to transform computing

Photonic quantum computers, using light and glass, will be much more powerful and faster than today's machines. © narong sutinkham, Shutterstock.com

European researchers are developing quantum computers using light and glass, in a collaboration that promises breakthroughs in computing power, battery technology and scientific discovery. By Anthony King Giulia Acconcia grew up in the picturesque, historic town of Spoleto, nestled in the foothills of Italy’s Apennine Mountains. Already in secondary school, she became fascinated with modern … Read more

Rethinking green investment for Europe’s next chapter: a stakeholder’s vision

Sandrine Dixson-Declève, a leading voice in sustainable finance, outlines her vision of what we need to “secure a thriving society on a healthy planet”. © Justin Lin

While Europe’s green agenda faces new pressures, sustainability leader Sandrine Dixson-Declève outlines why sustainable investment remains vital for economic strength, planetary health and future resilience. By Horizon Magazine staff As Europe faces growing security and trade challenges, the momentum behind sustainable policies, and especially green finance, has come under increasing pressure. Sandrine Dixson-Declève, a leading … Read more

Robots to the rescue: miniature robots offer new hope for search and rescue operations

Small two-wheeled robots, equipped with high-tech sensors, will help to find survivors faster in the aftermath of disasters. © Tohoku University, 2023

EU-funded researchers have developed robust mini robots with advanced sensors to help search and rescue teams find survivors in the aftermath of earthquakes and other disasters. By Michael Allen In the critical 72 hours after an earthquake or explosion, a race against the clock begins to find survivors. After that window, the chances of survival … Read more

Researchers join hands to bridge gaps in digital education across Europe

Researchers and companies are cooperating to improve digital education tools and help Europe prepare for the future. © Gorodenkoff, Shutterstock.com

Across Europe, researchers and industry are making digital education better, smarter and more accessible. By building strong partnerships and sharing knowledge, they are helping shape a future where everyone benefits from high-quality online learning. By Helen Massy-Beresford Children in Serbia may soon be learning basic literacy and maths with the help of a friendly virtual … Read more

Navigating growth: researchers use blockchain and AI to reclaim Europe’s inland waterways

A cruise ship sails on Portugal’s Douro River, part of Europe’s underutilised inland waterways that researchers are working to make more sustainable. © Mário Rodrigues/APDL

Europe’s expansive inland waterways remain underutilised despite their potential. Researchers and industry partners are developing innovative tools, such as digital simulations of river flows or blockchain-powered pollution control, that support smarter, more resilient and sustainable inland waterway transport. By Tom Cassauwers The Douro River is one of Portugal’s best-known waterways. It flows through the region … Read more