➀ An international team from Tohoku University, Tokyo University of Science, and the University of Adelaide has developed a novel technique for enhancing the sustainability and selectivity of electrochemical CO2 reduction processes; ➁ The technique involves atomic-level surface engineering of copper nanoclusters; ➂ This discovery highlights the potential of copper in sustainable chemistry and the importance of international collaboration in addressing carbon emissions.

➀ The Fraunhofer IEG is developing a digital battery passport to provide transparency on battery production and recycling. ➁ The BASE project aims to validate and implement the digital battery passport concept over the next three years. ➂ The battery passport will use blockchain technology to track and update battery data throughout its lifecycle, promoting circular economy and sustainability in the battery supply chain.

➀ The Reiner Lemoine Institute and partners identify 660 rural communities in Nigeria suitable for off-grid electrification, potentially reducing CO2 emissions by 188,000 tons annually. ➁ Community-Driven Mini-Grids (CDMGs) are proposed as a sustainable solution to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and strengthen local economies. ➂ A planning tool for mini-grids is developed to assist local communities in independently planning and implementing electrification projects.

➀ The majority of Germans believe it is 'important' or 'very important' to consider the environmental impact of digitalization; ➁ The DBU has conducted a survey indicating that nearly all aspects of life are affected by digitalization; ➂ Concerns are raised about the potential negative environmental consequences of digital technologies, such as increased electronic waste and energy consumption.

➀ The Hochschule Bochum researchers have achieved a significant milestone in a pioneering project for decentralized green hydrogen usage in mini-grids with partners SFC Energy AG and Green Power Brains. ➁ The system integrates a solar PV plant with a 200 kWp capacity and a 20 kW PEM electrolysis system, storing hydrogen in 48 high-pressure gas cylinders. ➂ The project focuses on the sustainability assessment and global scalability potential of hydrogen technologies for local applications, with the goal of developing a roadmap for integrating green hydrogen into decentralized energy systems in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ghana.

➀ Resilience will be a key focus for electronics supply chains in 2025, as companies seek to identify lower-risk components and localize their supply bases. ➁ AI integration in supply chains will intensify, with a focus on new applications for parsing supply chain intelligence and automating tasks. ➂ A new emphasis on sustainability will see organizations tackle scope-3 emissions in their supply chains, contributing to a deeper understanding of individual component emissions. ➃ Despite improvements, global chip shortages and long manufacturing lead times will continue to challenge the industry.

➀ The Fraunhofer Institute for Production Systems and Design Technology IPK presents research projects and solutions addressing the challenges of modern manufacturing; ➁ The focus is on data management, flexible manufacturing processes, machine efficiency, human resource support, and sustainable production; ➂ The article highlights the importance of holistic system solutions and interdisciplinary collaboration in research and innovation.

➀ Gartner predicts datacentres will require 160% more electricity within two years due to AI demands, with power for AI-optimised servers expected to reach 500 terawatt-hours per year by 2027; ➁ By 2027, 40% of datacentres will be constrained by power shortages, and the growth of new AI datacentres will slow down; ➂ Long-term solutions include new battery storage technologies and clean power sources like small nuclear reactors.

➀ A new real lab was opened at the Production Technology Center (PTZ) Berlin to support the transformation of the vehicle and supplier industry in the Berlin-Brandenburg region. The lab aims to facilitate the transition to a more environmentally friendly and efficient production. ➁ The lab offers modern manufacturing and assembly technologies, a testing environment for new technologies, and practical training programs. ➂ A digital production assistant is being researched to address the skilled labor shortage.

➀ Qkera, a startup from Technische Universität München, has developed new electrolyte components for solid-state batteries with high energy density and stability. The technology aims to break through battery technology for electromobility and other fields. ➁ The electrolytes consist of a lithium-ion-conducting ceramic-oxide material, offering safety and sustainability benefits. ➂ Qkera received support from TUM Venture Lab ChemSPACE and aims to send prototypes to battery manufacturers by the end of this year.

➀ Qkera, a startup from the Technical University of Munich, has developed new electrolyte components for solid-state batteries. The technology aims to offer high energy density, stability, and low production costs. ➁ The company's electrolytes are made of a lithium-ion conducting oxide ceramic, which offers advantages in safety and sustainability. ➂ Qkera has received support from the TUM Venture Lab and has been selected as one of the 25 best science startups worldwide by the Falling Walls Science Summit.

➀ Researchers from Politecnico di Milano and collaborating institutions developed hydrophobic paper using the mechanical properties and water resistance of cellulose nanofibers. The study aims to create a sustainable, high-performance material for packaging and biomedical applications. ➁ The approach combines short protein chains (peptides) with cellulose nanofibers without chemical modification, enhancing their mechanical performance and water resistance. ➂ Incorporating fluorine atoms into the peptides creates a structured hydrophobic film, improving water resistance while maintaining biocompatibility and sustainability.

➀ Researchers developed a novel silica/klucel nanocomposite for efficient lead ion removal from wastewater; ➁ The nanocomposite was characterized for its adsorption capacity, kinetics, and mechanisms, showing high removal efficiency and sustainability; ➂ The study highlights the potential of the nanocomposite as a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment.

➀ The Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems (IPMS) is a key player in microchip manufacturing with its comprehensive range of services from lab to fab. ➁ The institute focuses on memory technologies, sensors, actuators, and MEMS systems, with a strong emphasis on sustainable microelectronics. ➂ Fraunhofer IPMS collaborates with industry leaders and offers a full-service offering for MEMS, MOEMS, and microdisplay technologies, including pilot production and technology transfer support.

➀ Microsoft is experimenting with cross-laminated timber (CLT) for new data centers in Northern Virginia to reduce its carbon footprint. ➁ The company estimates that using wood in its data centers will cut its carbon footprint by 35% compared to steel construction. ➂ Greenhouse emissions are reduced by 65% when CLT replaces precast concrete.

➀ Discussing the challenges faced in electric-vehicle charging infrastructure; ➁ Analyzing the impact on energy consumption and sustainability; ➂ Exploring potential solutions and future developments in the field.

➀ Prof. Martin Braun will take over the leadership of Fraunhofer IEE in Kassel on November 1, 2024. He is also a professor at the University of Kassel. ➁ Fraunhofer IEE focuses on research and development of sustainable electrical energy systems and energy system technology. ➂ Since 1988, the institute has been developing solutions to advance the energy transition and digitalization in the energy sector.

➀ Researchers at ICFO have developed a post-deposition in situ passivation technique to minimize surface defects in eco-friendly solar cells, achieving a new efficiency record; ➁ The technique improves surface passivation and optoelectronic properties of nanocrystal ink films, leading to higher efficiency solar cells; ➂ The team synthesized AgBiS2 nanocrystal ink with a multifunctional molecular agent for enhanced performance.

➀ Melexis has introduced a 24V/60W sensorless single-coil BLDC driver for motor, fan, and pump applications in consumer and industrial electronics; ➁ The MLX90416 driver provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional solutions, simplifying motor design and manufacturing; ➂ It offers plug-and-play setup with a user-friendly GUI, enabling rapid deployment and adaptability; ➃ The driver is suitable for various applications, including white goods, fans, air fryers, ovens, and industrial systems.

➀ The Research Factory of Microelectronics Germany (FMD) awarded the 'Green ICT Award' for outstanding theses in sustainable ICT. The award promotes interest in sustainable microelectronics and provides a platform for young researchers.➁ Joseph Winkler won first place with his thesis on high-efficiency 48V DC-DC converter design.➂ The award ceremony took place during the Green ICT Connect conference, which focuses on sustainable microelectronics and innovation.