At Green Prophet, we want to start 2026 with a note of genuine thanks. We’re grateful to LinkedIn News for granting us free access to a reporter account. In a media landscape where quality data is often locked behind paywalls, this kind of openness matters — especially for independent journalism focused on climate, sustainability, and the future of work. With LinkedIn we are able to access people and contacts in hours, rather than days.

That access is put to good use in LinkedIn’s newly released Jobs on the Rise 2026, which tracks the 25 fastest-growing roles in the United States based on real employment data from 2023 to mid-2025. Beyond the headlines about AI, which will no doubt play a role in every job in the near future, the report quietly reveals something just as important: sustainability and climate-aligned work is no longer niche — it’s embedded across industries. And this report gives hope, direction and potentially new opportunities for young people starting out in their careers.

We’ve taken a look at the report and helped distill the opportunities that can work with the environment in mind.

Where sustainability shows up in the fastest-growing jobs

While “green jobs” aren’t always labeled as such, many of the fastest-growing roles are directly enabling the energy transition, climate resilience, and lower-carbon systems:

Number one on their list is Artificial Intelligence engineers. But what does that mean? Vibe coding Claude?

AI engineers, AI consultants, and AI/ML researchers
These roles are increasingly central to climate modeling, grid optimization, energy efficiency, climate risk analytics, and sustainable supply chains. AI isn’t abstract anymore — it’s infrastructure for climate decision-making. AI is being used to find new sources for mining, for solar panel optimization, and where to build wind turbines.

Commissioning managers & datacenter technicians
As data centers expand to support AI, commissioning managers play a critical role in efficiency, safety, and performance — including energy use and cooling systems. These jobs sit at the intersection of digital growth and environmental cost control. (This renewable energy company Intersect powers data centers and was just bought by Google for $4.5 billion)

Field marketing representatives in renewable energy and food systems
LinkedIn data shows hiring momentum in industries tied to renewable energy services and food production — sectors under pressure to decarbonize and scale responsibly. We know that Estee Lauder went solar at the source. Other companies are following suit.

Fundraising officers, public affairs specialists, and strategic advisors
Climate action increasingly depends on capital, policy, and public trust. These roles help move funding, shape regulation, and translate sustainability goals into action. find jobs in the government, at NGOs and as the VP of sustainability at a job you create.

Construction project leads & new home sales specialists
As building codes tighten and demand rises for energy-efficient housing, these roles will increasingly influence materials, design, and long-term environmental impact. Definitely in solar panel installation, creating new projects like Binishells from hemp concrete, and so on.

LinkedIn’s research also highlights a striking tension: 56% of professionals plan to job-hunt in 2026, yet 76% say they don’t feel prepared.

This gap matters for climate and sustainability. The transition to a low-carbon economy depends not just on technology, but on people who can adapt, reskill, and move between sectors. LinkedIn’s inclusion of free Learning courses alongside each role (available to all members until February 6) is a practical step toward closing that gap.

So thank you, LinkedIn, for the access — and for publishing data that helps journalists, workers, and policymakers see where the future of work is heading.

::LinkedIn News

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Desalination plants, a major and growing source of freshwater in dry regions, could produce less harmful waste using electricity and new membranes made at the University of Michigan.The membranes could help desalination plants minimize or eliminate brine waste produced as a byproduct of turning seawater into drinking water. Today, liquid brine waste is stored in ponds until the water evaporates, leaving behind solid salt or a concentrated brine that can be further processed. But brine needs time to evaporate, providing ample opportunities to contaminate groundwater.

Space is also an issue. For every liter of drinking water produced at the typical desalination plant, 1.5 liters of brine are produced. Over 37 billion gallons of brine waste is produced globally every day, according to a UN study. When space for evaporation ponds is lacking, desalination plants inject the brine underground or dump it into the ocean. Rising salt levels near desalination plants can harm marine ecosystems.

“There’s a big push in the desalination industry for a better solution,” said Jovan Kamcev, U-M assistant professor of chemical engineering and the corresponding author of the study published today in Nature Chemical Engineering. “Our technology could help desalination plants be more sustainable by reducing waste while using less energy.”

To eliminate brine waste, desalination engineers would like to concentrate the salt such that it can be easily crystallized in industrial vats rather than ponds that can occupy over a hundred acres. The separated water could be used for drinking or agriculture, while the solid salt could then be harvested for useful products. Seawater not only contains sodium chloride—or table salt—but valuable metals such as lithium for batteries, magnesium for lightweight alloys and potassium for fertilizer.

Desalination plants can concentrate brines by heating and evaporating the water, which is very energy intensive, or with reverse osmosis, which only works at relatively low salinity. Electrodialysis is a promising alternative because it works at high salt concentrations and requires relatively little energy. The process uses electricity to concentrate salt, which exists in water as charged atoms and molecules called ions.

Here’s how the process works. Water flows into many channels separated by membranes, and each membrane has the opposite electrical charge of its neighbors. The entire stream is flanked by a pair of electrodes. The positive salt ions move toward the negatively charged electrode, and are stopped by a positively charged membrane. Negative ions move toward the positive electrode, stopped by a negative membrane. This creates two types of channels—one that both positive and negative ions leave and another that the ions enter, resulting in streams of purified water and concentrated brine.

But, electrodialysis has its own salinity limits. As the salt concentrations rise, ions start to leak through electrodialysis membranes. While leak-resistant membranes exist on the market, they tend to transport ions too slowly, making the power requirements impractical for brines more than six times saltier than average seawater.

The researchers overcome this limit by packing a record number of charged molecules into the membrane, increasing their ion-repelling power and their conductivity—meaning they can move more salt with less power. With their chemistry, the researchers can produce membranes that are ten times more conductive than relatively leak-proof membranes on the market today.

The dense charge ordinarily attracts a lot of water molecules, which limits how much charge can fit in conventional electrodialysis membranes. The membranes swell as they absorb water, and the charge is diluted. In the new membranes, connectors made of carbon prevent swelling by locking the charged molecules together.

The level of restriction can be changed to control the leakiness and the conductivity of the membranes. Allowing some level of leakiness can push the conductivity beyond today’s commercially available membranes. The researchers hope the membrane’s customizability will help it take off.”Each membrane isn’t fit for every purpose, but our study demonstrates a broad range of choices,” said David Kitto, a postdoctoral fellow in chemical engineering and the study’s first author. “Water is such an important resource, so it would be amazing to help to make desalination a sustainable solution to our global water crisis.”

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As the planet warms, the race for sustainable cooling technologies is heating up. In Slovenia, researchers are developing a revolutionary cooling system that skips toxic gases and instead uses recyclable nickel-titanium alloy to keep things chill. Their method?

It’s called elastocaloric cooling—and it could transform how we air-condition homes and buildings without harming the planet. Unlike traditional systems that use hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)—greenhouse gases thousands of times more potent than CO₂—this method doesn’t rely on liquid-to-gas phase changes.  Instead, it leverages a solid-state material, nitinol, which heats up when mechanically stressed and cools down when the pressure is released.

“A mass of only one kilogram of refrigerant with a GWP of 10,000 causes as much global warming as 10 tons of CO₂,” says Jaka Tušek, principal investigator of the project at the University of Ljubljana. “We want to replace them with solid refrigerants based on shape memory alloys.”

The project, E-CO-HEAT, is part of the European Union’s broader mission to decarbonize heating and cooling—a sector that accounts for 10% of global electricity use. This research could help phase out toxic coolants, reduce fire risk, and improve efficiency, especially as climate change accelerates.

“Our device has no moving parts in the cooling loop and uses less energy,” the team notes. “It can become a highly efficient alternative to vapor compression cooling.

“Ironically, the more we cool, the greater the demand for cooling.” he explains. “The International Energy Agency estimates that the number of air conditioners worldwide will rise from 1.6 billion today to 5.6 billion by the middle of the century.

“At this rate of increase in cooling demand, energy use for cooling will exceed total energy use for heating by 2060 and by the end of the century by more than 60%. Among the alternative technologies, elastocaloric cooling and heating technology, based on exploiting the elastocaloric effect during cyclic loading of shape memory materials, has shown great potential in recent years,” says Tušek.

Read more on Green Prophet about the hidden climate cost of air conditioners and efforts to design buildings that don’t need cooling at all.

Metal-Based Cooling Could Cut Carbon and Slash Energy Use

Tušek’s team is working with partners from Ireland, Germany, and Italy under the project SMACool, which aims to deliver a working prototype of a metal-based air conditioner by 2026. Though still at 15% efficiency, researchers expect to surpass that soon, potentially beating standard vapor compression units that max out at 30%.

The technology avoids the flammable or toxic properties of so-called “natural refrigerants” like isobutane or ammonia, which come with their own risks—especially in hot climates where performance drops.

“We are building an advanced elastocaloric device that can replace today’s harmful cooling systems and have a measurable impact on climate goals,” Tušek says.

But change won’t be instant. This kind of leap forward faces resistance from an industry heavily invested in HFC-based infrastructure. Still, the benefits—zero-emissions refrigerants, higher safety, and better performance—are hard to ignore.

As Tušek puts it: “We’re not only developing a device. We’re shaping a safer, cooler future.”

Check out Green Prophet’s coverage of other clean tech frontiers like solar cooling in deserts and AI-powered climate solutions.

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Owning a home means investing in comfort, safety, and financial security. Keeping your property in tip-top shape is a way to protect those goals. But if you’re one of the growing numbers of eco-conscious homeowners, you’re also focused on reducing your property’s carbon footprint.

One of the areas where you can make a significant impact is by moving away from conventional HVAC systems. Your home’s heating and cooling equipment typically accounts for at least half of your energy use. By switching to environmentally conscious HVAC solutions, you’ll increase your property’s sustainability while maintaining its comfort and value. Below are a few ideas for eco-friendly temperature control to consider.   

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Chances are you already have central AC and heat. Although your equipment may be of the high-efficiency variety, you can lower your energy use even more. By moving away from conventional HVAC systems, you can only use the energy you need at the moment.

How? With a ductless mini split system, you can install separate units in each area or room of your home. These systems are often more eco-friendly than centralized solutions because you can adjust the temperature by zone. Instead of using energy to have the entire property at the same temp, you’re heating or cooling one area.

As you’re sitting in your living room on a steamy summer evening, you’ll keep your cool while binging. When it’s time to get some sleep, you can ramp up the air conditioner in your bedroom. Cooling in the other parts of your home can taper down so you’ll have less waste. You’ll also eliminate the need for pricey ductwork, including periodic cleaning and repairs.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps can cut your electricity use for heat by as much as 75%, which is pretty substantial. Even if you live in a milder climate, you can experience colder temps that call for more than electric blankets. And while high-efficiency furnaces offer the promise of rebates and using less natural gas, you’re still dependent on fossil fuels.

Converting to a heat pump means the equipment is using air within or outside your home, depending on the season. If it’s warmer, the pump moves hot air outside. During the cooler months, the pump does the opposite. It moves air from the outside into your home to make it warmer.

Systems like these are known as air-to-air solutions. However, heat pumps can also be geothermal. These systems use heat from the ground to make your home more comfortable during chilly weather. Some heat pumps can use existing ductwork while others operate on the mini-split or ductless concept.

Solar Power

Living in an area with ample sunshine holds advantages besides promoting feelings of happiness. It’s an opportunity to use the sun’s natural energy to power your home. Solar panels, shingles, and windows are ways to make the switch.

Of course, you’ll want to enlist the help of the pros before you get the work done. They’ll be able to tell you how many panels you’ll need and what side to install them on. Contractors will look at obstructions to sunlight, including trees. They’ll gather data about your home’s size and energy needs.

If you decide to install solar panels, you may have the option of leasing them. This route can reduce upfront costs and might make sense if you won’t be in your home for decades. If you’re worried about potential damage from hail or the look of panels on your roof, consider more discrete options. Windows and roof shingles with built-in solar technology can help you convert while maintaining the same exterior appearance.

Swamp Coolers

A swamp cooler works by using evaporated water to cool your home’s interior. These cooling systems use 60% to 80% less electricity than central AC units. However, swamp coolers work best in dry climates.

So, if you live in the southwestern United States, you’ll be in a better position to convert to a swamp cooler. In humid climates like Florida or the northeast, evaporative cooling systems may not work well. There are additional considerations such as the higher water use. Swamp coolers typically require between 3,000 and 12,500 gallons of water each year.    

Higher water use can be a concern in states where there are already supply challenges. Dry climates naturally get less precipitation, which can lead to tighter water restrictions. During droughts, the restrictions can be even more challenging. But if your home is smaller and uses passive cooling techniques, a swamp cooler could be a good fit. Passive cooling techniques take advantage of natural ventilation and shading to keep indoor temperatures comfortable.

Eco-Friendly Temperature Control

Your home is a haven from the outside world. It gives you a place to unwind, enjoy life, and protect you from the elements. A home can be more about the memories you make living in it than the structure itself. Still, conscious homeowners are also mindful of how certain changes can add to a property’s sustainability and market value.

A home’s heating and cooling solution is considered one of its major components. Indoor temperature control is a must in terms of comfort and safety. While conventional HVAC systems do a good job of maintaining both, the equipment is dependent on fossil fuels. This reality isn’t necessarily the most energy-efficient or realistic as governments introduce climate change initiatives. Switching to sustainable solutions is an investment in the property’s future.            

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In today’s world, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. But living an eco-conscious lifestyle isn’t just good for the planet; it can also be great for your wallet. Many people assume that going green means spending more, but in reality, a well-planned green budget can lead to significant savings over time. Whether it’s reducing energy bills, cutting down on waste, or making mindful purchases, green budgeting is a win-win strategy for both your finances and the environment.

Understanding Green Budgeting

Green budgeting is the practice of aligning your financial decisions with environmentally friendly choices. It’s about being mindful of where your money goes and how your lifestyle impacts the planet. Instead of viewing sustainability as an added expense, think of it as a strategic way to save money while making ethical choices.

The Power of Small Changes

You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight to start benefiting from a green budget. Small, consistent changes add up over time. Let’s explore some areas where sustainability and saving money go hand in hand.

1. Energy Efficiency: Lower Bills, Higher Savings

One of the easiest ways to cut costs while living sustainably is by reducing energy consumption. Simple steps like switching to LED bulbs, unplugging electronics when not in use, and using energy-efficient appliances can lower electricity bills.

Example: I once replaced all the incandescent bulbs in my home with LED lights. The upfront cost was slightly higher, but within a few months, my energy bill dropped noticeably. Over time, I saved hundreds of dollars while consuming less power.

2. Sustainable Transportation: Save on Gas and Maintenance

Owning and maintaining a car is expensive. Gas prices fluctuate, and maintenance costs can add up quickly. By opting for public transportation, carpooling, biking, or even walking when possible, you can save a substantial amount.

Example: My friend, Sarah, decided to ditch her car in favor of a bicycle for her daily commute. Not only did she save on gas and maintenance, but she also improved her health and reduced her carbon footprint.

3. Mindful Grocery Shopping: Reduce Waste, Save Money

Food waste is a huge issue, both environmentally and financially. By planning meals, buying in bulk, and choosing locally sourced foods, you can cut down on waste and save money.

Tip: Try meal prepping for the week. It helps you stick to a grocery list, avoids impulse buys, and minimizes food waste.

Example: I once calculated how much I was spending on food waste each month, and it shocked me. By being more intentional about meal planning and storing food properly, I managed to save at least $100 a month, which immediately was redirected into a secure savings account. 

4. Thrift Shopping and Minimalism: Quality Over Quantity

Fast fashion and impulse buying are not only costly but also harmful to the environment. Choosing second-hand clothing, repairing items instead of replacing them, and embracing minimalism can lead to long-term financial benefits.

Example: A few years ago, I started shopping at thrift stores instead of buying new clothes every season. I found high-quality brands for a fraction of the price, and my wardrobe became more unique and sustainable.

5. DIY and Reuse: Get Creative and Save

Instead of purchasing new household items or constantly buying disposable products, try DIY solutions and reusable alternatives. From homemade cleaning supplies to repurposing old furniture, there are countless ways to save money and reduce waste.

Example: Instead of buying paper towels, I invested in reusable cloth wipes. Over time, this small change saved me hundreds of dollars and significantly reduced my household waste.

Long-Term Green Investments That Pay Off

While some eco-friendly changes require an initial investment, they often lead to long-term savings.

• Solar Panels: While costly upfront, they can drastically reduce (or even eliminate) electricity bills.
• Smart Home Technology: Programmable thermostats and energy-efficient appliances pay for themselves over time.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): Although pricier than gas-powered cars, they save money on fuel and maintenance in the long run.

Final Thoughts: Green Living = Smart Financial Planning

Green budgeting is not about making sacrifices; it’s about making smarter choices. When you align your spending with sustainability, you naturally cut down on waste, save money, and contribute to a healthier planet. The key is to start small and build from there—every little effort counts.

By embracing an eco-conscious lifestyle, you’re not just helping the environment; you’re also securing a financially sustainable future. So why not start today? Your wallet—and the planet—will thank you.

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Red Sea helps farmers prosper near dead or dying aquifers

RedSea LLC, a company founded in the heat of Saudi Arabia has cracked the code for sustainably growing plants in high heat conditions. They offer the answer to increasing cultivation on dead and dying aquifers. 

Growing food in greenhouses in a European winter makes sense. The Dutch invented the idea in the 1800s when botanist Charles Lucien Bonaparte wanted to grow medicinal plants in Leiden. These greenhouses retain heat in the enclosures, allowing cultivation even during the cold Northern European winter months. 

Hydroponics –– or growing trees and plants in a water medium with nutrients –– is having a moment now but it started with a California botanist in the 1800s and was perfected in the 90s by cannabis growers in Canada. Hydroponics tech is now used for growing salads in food deserts everywhere. Hydro-grown has its challenges, and high costs, however.

Drip irrigation, designed to precisely control the delivery of scarce water and costly fertilizer directly to plant roots is credited to the Polish-Israeli agronomist Simcha Blass. This solution allowed cultivation in arid climates where the growing season was limited. More recently, American-Israeli Daniel Hillel received the World Food Prize for devising drip irrigation systems in the developing world and this technology, delivered by companies like Netafim and Rivulis, is now a multi-billion dollar global business.

Climate change and increasing world temperatures now presents additional challenges for agriculture –– especially where climates are becoming more hostile, and water less available. A growing world population, and concerns over food security in the hottest countries in the world has shifted the focus of innovators to ask the question of how to sustainably feed this growing population, and how to overcome the challenges of cultivating in increasingly arid climates. 

RedSea LLC, a company founded in the heat of Saudi Arabia, has cracked the code for sustainably growing plants in high heat conditions and they offer the answer to increasing cultivation on dead and dying aquifers. 

The founders include an Australian plant biologist Prof. Mark Tester, known as the Indiana Jones of the plant world, Prof. Derya Baran, a leading materials scientist and Dr. Ryan Lefers, an expert on water systems and water preservation in agriculture. The trio have built a platform of technologies that adapts the best of the innovative pioneers before them in materials, AI, hydroponics, smart farms, and drip irrigation and have applied know-how in materials, water and plant genetics to sustainably grow crops in hot and dry climates. 

This starts with the water, as access to fresh water is an increasing challenge with agriculture currently using up to 70% of available fresh water to grow crops. The challenge was how to grow plants in increasingly arid conditions on dead or dying aquifers. Tester went to the Galapagos on a mission to figure it out and came home inspired by the tomato plants that he found there growing on rocks right next to the sea. 

He tells Green Prophet that he questioned whether these tomato plants could handle the salt, and if so, could they be modified to be grown commercially while reducing the draw of fresh water resources? Brackish water is saltier than water that comes from the tap and plants don’t like it. It is the water found in estuaries where rivers meet the sea. It is also the water found in aquifers near the sea or in deserts –– or in areas where climate change, and overpopulation has depleted aquifers. 

In all parts of our drought-facing world, and especially in the dry Middle East and regions of California and Texas, brackish water in damaged and dead aquifers is common. Tester has made it his life mission, and with his co-founders established a successful company now scaling into new markets, to grow food on dead and dying aquifers.

“It really depends on the crop, but when our technologies are combined this means you can build greenhouses near dead or dying aquifers. In reality there are a lot of factors in play, but this is the idea,” says Tester, pointing to a suite of agri-climate technologies RedSea has built: “The fundamental idea to address is to reduce the use of freshwater for producing fresh food and if we can do that by using more saltwater, then that is definitely a useful contribution.”

Tester was educated in the UK at Cambridge. He is a research professor at KAUST, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia.  

Perfecting saltwater greenhouses has been a quest for everyone in the Middle East. Maria Telkes, a Hungarian-American scientist laid the foundation for passive desalination greenhouses decades ago in her basic desalination kit made for providing water for soldiers at sea. Sites in Qatar and Abu Dhabi have piloted saltwater greenhouses. 

But Tester’s background is in plant biology, not just tech, furthering the understanding of salt tolerance in plants for desert agriculture. He has developed methods for developing new types of seeds that are used as a hearty rootstock which can handle brackish water. Other plants, which are not as tough, but which are tasty can be then grafted onto these rootstocks. 

“I am a plant guy and in this company I am delivering the fruits of my lifetime’s research which is fundamental science: how plants move solutes in and out of the plants, and applying it to salinity tolerance. With my co-founders Ryan Lefers and Derya Baran a suite of products was developed and commercialised that can leverage this research,” he tells Green Prophet.

Grafting is used with many varieties of plants, such as apples, cherries, roses, watermelons, nut trees, and tomato plants. Developing new types of rootstocks that can handle brackish water and other challenges such as heat and drought is the aim –– and “then we graft the edible bits on top,” says Tester.

In some cases, RedSea can graft across species, but only closely related ones: “We can graft a tomato onto a wild tomato, an eggplant onto a wild eggplant, and sometimes even a tomato onto a wild eggplant, but we can’t graft an orange onto an apple, for example. They have to be fairly closely related.”

The work of grafting also allows the farmer to extend the growing period of the plant, says Tester: “We can help tomatoes be economically productive for longer, such as from 10 months to 11 months in a greenhouse.” 

The RedSea technology works on a soil-based substrate, hydroponics or on open fields in soil: “We are developing rootstocks for all of these conditions,” says Tester.

“In tomatoes, for instance, we are working with brackish water, which is more dilute than seawater but more salty that you and I can drink, is the reality is that in many places around around the world a lot of our food is grown using groundwater and every major aquifer is being depleted. As it gets depleted, it gets salty. 

“We have few aquifers straight outside our university that have been abandoned because of that – now we can access water that’s currently not being used.”

Turning greenhouses inside out

Apart from the unique rootstocks that RedSea is providing, the company has a number of technologies now being sold in export markets. While greenhouses typically need to be heated in Holland or Canada, in the Middle East, the reverse is true. It gets too hot. So RedSea has also helped solve that problem.

They have developed a range of heat blocking greenhouse covers. These are based on additives that can be incorporated into any polymer based cover that blocks damaging heat from penetrating into the greenhouses –– a product called iyris SecondSky which incorporates a nanoparticle technology invented by Baran.

“Derya developed a nanoparticle that when dispersed in plastics absorbs near infrared radiation – which in layman’s terms translates to heat. This absorption of the heat load that would otherwise be damaging to plant health delivers a huge reduction of the resources that are needed in such structures to control the climate and manage plant health in the greenhouse,” says Tester.

The technology can be easily Integrated into standard plastic greenhouse covers, be that polycarbonate, polyethylene or net, resulting in a product that is a one for one replacement of standard greenhouse covers – just better –  because the heat blocking is already integrated into the plastic during the manufacturing process. This means that there is very little compromising impact on the PAR (photosynthetic active radiation) transmission through the cover compared to alternative heat blocking methods. 

Alternative heat blocking solutions include additional reflective films, chalking or internal shade screens, which are, in the case of films, expensive, an operational nuisance and potentially degrading to the plastic. In the case of chalking and compromise the PAR transmission within the greenhouse. Results achieved with the use of SecondSky have been impressive, Tester reports.

Ryan Lefers, the CEO of RedSea explained more about the potential of how disruptive this integrated heat blocking can be within high heat regions: “Greenhouse technology has become highly developed in Northern European countries such as the Netherlands, offering a solution to keep heat in winter so that crops could be grown out of season, but here in the Middle East and over vast areas of the planet we need to keep the heat out in summer, so our thinking was to take the original greenhouse and turn it inside out,” he tells Green Prophet.

“Water scarcity is another major challenge, so finding ways to operate farms with a lower environmental impact, while empowering farmers to continue to farm without an expectation that they make fundamental changes in the way that they farm was a key driver for us.”

The saltwater greenhouse dream

In facilities where SecondSky is installed, farmers can save up to 30% on water and fertilizer use when compared to hydroponic systems and up to 90% compared to soil based cultivation. Many farms also use a reverse pressure pad and fan cooling system in the region to assist in coping with the extreme temperatures. Farmers can save up to an additional 32% in energy costs once a SecondSky cover is installed. 

RedSea has developed an add-on to their technology suite that enables farmers to use brackish water in these cooling systems further reducing the environmental impact of farming in hot climates.

RedSea was founded in 2018, and to date has raised a total of about $36.5 million USD. Saudi Arabia’s oil company Aramco through their investment fund Wa’ed is among the investors. A new Series A funding round will close shortly, adding investors and additional funds for the company’s planned expansion. 

Rapid growth of sales and revenues is the company’s focus at the moment, with expansions into other countries. RedSea technology is being sold through manufacturers and distributors, but also directly to farms. There are installations in 16 countries to date and this number is growing.

But Tester, a plant guy at heart with a passion for the environment, has his eye on the bigger prize: “We wanted to have a company that is profitable and truly sustainable and highly impactful –– where we are across the world developing and selling technologies to reduce the environmental footprint of our food productions in both developed and developing countries. 

“And that’s where we came from ––  Ryan and me. We started with this idea of increasing sustainability in agriculture in developing countries ––  that’s in the DNA of the company.”

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Image by storyset on Freepik

Over the past few decades, mobile technology has advanced rapidly, transforming how we communicate, access information, and conduct business. Mobile technology has evolved rapidly since the introduction of 2G networks in the early 90s, primarily facilitating voice communication. The advent of 4G LTE brought high-speed internet to our fingertips, revolutionizing connectivity. Each generation of mobile technology has brought significant speed, capacity, and functionality improvements.

However, The 5GThe Manufacturing smartphones and network equipment requires substantial amounts of raw materials, including rare earth elements. The energy needed to operate and maintain network infrastructure has contributed to greenhouse gas emissions. The frequent upgrading of devices has led to an increase in e-waste, with many not being recycled. In fact, 76 percent of e-waste is unaccounted for, as most are left sitting in storage homes or aren’t disposed of properly. 

With 5G technology, will the world deal with more environmental concerns, or is it the technological efficiency we are looking for?

The Rise of 5G Technology and Its Environmental Impact

5G technology isn’t only revolutionizing internet speeds. It represents a shift towards increased connectivity and intelligent ecosystem promoting ecological sustainability.

Energy efficiency and 5G

One of the most compelling eco-friendly aspects of 5G technology is its potential to reduce energy consumption. Thanks to advancements in hardware and network architecture, 5G networks are more energy-efficient than previous generations. 

For instance, 5G uses beamforming techniques to direct signals more precisely, reducing power wastage and enhancing the overall efficiency of data transmission. The infrastructure supporting 5G can dynamically adjust energy usage based on demand, minimizing unnecessary energy expenditure.

Image from Analog Devices

The environmental benefits of 5G extend beyond its direct energy efficiency. 5G technology can substantially reduce energy usage across various industries by enabling more innovative applications and services. 

Smart buildings, for example, can utilize 5G to optimize heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, significantly cutting down on energy consumption. Similarly, industrial processes can become more efficient with real-time monitoring and automation, reducing waste and improving productivity. 

Reducing electronic waste

5G technology also has the potential to contribute to a more sustainable, circular economy by reducing electronic waste. For example, users can upgrade their 5G Samsung phones through software updates rather than hardware replacements. This shift extends the lifespan of electronic devices. As a result, it reduces the need for new hardware production, which is often resource-intensive and environmentally damaging. 

By embracing 5G, manufacturers and consumers alike can play a part in minimizing electronic waste and promoting sustainable consumption practices.

Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity provided by 5G can facilitate better management and recycling of electronic waste. IoT-enabled devices can be tracked throughout their lifecycle, ensuring they are responsibly disposed of or recycled. This comprehensive waste management system can significantly reduce the environmental impact of discarded electronics. 

5G networks supporting a circular economy will highlight the interconnected nature of technological advancement and environmental sustainability.

Smart agriculture and sustainable farming

Implementing 5G technology will benefit the agriculture sector immensely, particularly in the context of sustainable farming practices. With 5G-enabled precision agriculture, farmers can leverage real-time data to optimize crop management, irrigation, and pest control. 

This approach enhances productivity but also minimizes the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, leading to more sustainable farming operations. The efficiency brought about by 5G can help farmers meet the growing global food demand while reducing their environmental footprint.

Moreover, 5G can support the development of innovative agricultural technologies such as autonomous tractors, drones, and sensor networks. These tools can perform various tasks with high precision, from planting and harvesting to monitoring soil health and weather conditions. Farmers can enjoy higher yields with fewer resources with these technologies, promoting a more sustainable and efficient agricultural system. 

Driving transportation efficiency with 5G

The transportation industry is responsible for about one-quarter of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. 5G technology is poised to transform the transportation and logistics sectors significantly. By enabling real-time data exchange and communication, 5G can enhance the efficiency of transportation networks and logistics operations. 

For instance, 5G-powered smart traffic management systems reduce congestion and emissions by optimizing traffic flow and providing real-time updates to drivers. This can lead to more efficient transportation, reducing fuel consumption and lowering vehicles’ carbon footprint.

5G can facilitate more efficient supply chain management in the logistics industry through enhanced tracking and monitoring capabilities. With real-time and actual visibility into the location and condition of goods, companies can optimize their logistics operations, reducing delays and minimizing waste. 

Additionally, deploying autonomous vehicles and drones for delivery services can enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. 

Sustainable medical innovations

The healthcare industry is set to undergo a revolution with the integration of 5G technology, particularly in terms of sustainability and efficiency. 5G enables the deployment of telemedicine and remote monitoring solutions. It reduces the need for physical visits, thereby cutting down on associated travel emissions. Patients can get high-quality care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the environmental impact of healthcare services. 

Moreover, real-time data sharing facilitated by 5G can improve patient outcomes and streamline medical processes.

5G can support the development of advanced medical technologies such as connected medical devices and AI-driven diagnostics. These innovations can improve the accuracy and efficiency of medical treatments, reduce waste, and improve patient care.

For example, smart medical devices can continuously monitor patients’ health and adjust treatments in real-time. This minimizes the need for excessive medication and reduces overall healthcare costs. 

Embracing a Sustainable Future with 5G

The widespread adoption of 5G technology promises to drive significant advancements in sustainability and efficiency across various sectors. However, it must be a collective effort from all stakeholders. With the expansion of 5G networks, it’s best to prioritize eco-friendly practices and leverage this technology to its fullest potential. 

Doing so can pave the way for a greener, more sustainable world, ensuring a better quality of life for future generations. Embracing 5G is about enhancing connectivity and building a smarter, more sustainable future for all.

The post Eco-Friendly Tech Trends: Embracing 5G Efficiency  appeared first on Green Prophet.

Keeping your home cool during the hot and humid summer months is costly and damaging to the climate because of all the extra energy usage. But with a few strategic hacks to using your current window-based air conditioner, portable air conditioning unit or central air condition system, you can make your air conditioner work more efficiently. And that means more coolness for you and no more choosing your friends based on who has an air conditioner at home. It also means buying less carbon credits if you are doing carbon accounting for your home.

Here are some expert tips to enhance your AC’s performance and ensure a comfortably cool home, office or hang out space. These are from Green Prophet’s experiences we’ve taken from living in New York, Canada, Europe (there is practical no air-con there) and the Middle East and will ensure your air quality stays high too.

Deep clean vents every few years

Dust and grime can accumulate in your central system AC vents and mini-split units over time, slowing airflow and reducing efficiency. Performing a deep clean of your air vents every three to five years is crucial. This maintenance ensures that the maximum amount of cold air is released into your living spaces.

This routine boosts your AC’s performance but also extends its lifespan by preventing it from overworking to push air through clogged ducts. Here is a guide on how to deep clean your air ducts. You can do it at home without paying for an an expensive AC repairman.

If you live in Arizona, or a dusty, desert location with hot temps throughout the year consider a deep clean more regularly.

Replace air filters

In addition to deep cleaning vents periodically, replacing air filters on a regular basis is important for efficient operation. Air filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering your air conditioning system. Open them up and if there is a lot of humidity in your region they may also be food of black mould. This mold will fly all over your home, clogging filters and your lungs.

The clogging also makes the unit work harder, giving less output. Ask how to change the air filters when you buy or acquire the unit. Read this guide on how to replace filters.

Read related: Improving air quality with your air conditioner

Pair the air con with fans

Spend-thrift people know that a high energy air con unit can heat a whole floor of a home if ceiling fans or floor fans are turned on. Fans take much less energy and they push the cool air through your home. This cools the room faster and makes it feel cooler by evaporating humidity from your skin. You can use less air and more fan, finding the happy balance at night, saving you money on your power bill.

Invest in window shades

Keeping sunlight out of your home can significantly reduce indoor temperatures. High-quality window shades or blinds can block the sun’s rays, preventing your rooms from heating up during the day. This means that your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard to cool your home.

By minimizing the amount of heat that enters your home, you can create a more comfortable environment and reduce the load on your AC unit. This not only enhances efficiency but also prolongs the life of your air conditioning system.

Keep the doors and windows closed

It might seem intuitive but part of what makes the summer feel hot is the humidity. Air conditioners typically remove the humidity from the air, cooling it in the process. Make sure you teach your kids and family members the importance of keeping windows in the entire house shut when the air conditioner is running or else you are basically pouring electricity down the drain.

Close vents and doors of rooms not in use

If you have a central AC unit, you can but small covers to put on the vents so the cooling stays out of rooms you aren’t using. If there is no-one in the guest bedroom or office, keep the door closed and let the cool air circulate where needed.

Now that you know how to hack your air con so it’s cooler this summer, read these 5 ways to re-use air conditioner AC water.

The post Hacks to Make Your Air Conditioner Work Harder appeared first on Green Prophet.

The world is growing more and more concerned about carbon footprint, climate change and the very real challenges that come with them.

In the past, people used to talk about climate change as a faraway problem,  for future genrations. But with the seas currently rising, storms more frequent and violent, and temperatures soaring at record highs, the problem is undeniably at our doorsteps. And the time to act is now.

One of the biggest ways to combat climate change and contribute to a greener planet is by cutting carbon emissions – the more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the worse the ‘greenhouse effect’ is on our planet. And one of the most effective ways of reducing your carbon footprint is by saving as much energy as possible.

Here are 11 to incorporate green living into your everyday life and do your bit for the environment.

Use energy-efficient appliances

There are many reasons to invest in energy-efficient appliances. The first, of course, is by not using more energy than necessary to power the appliance, less fuel needs to be burnt up to create that energy, so less carbon dioxide gets released into the atmosphere.

The second is that not only do you save energy, but you’ll save money at the same time.

For example, a clunky old boiler will need to work harder to heat your home, whereas a new, A-rated energy-efficient boiler will use less energy to heat the same area.

Opt for LED Lighting

Alongside energy-efficient appliances, energy-efficient lighting can also go a long way in helping to cut carbon emissions.

LED bulbs use far less energy than their incandescent and fluorescent cousins to produce the same amount of light. Not only that, but they last lots longer, too.

Power down and unplug

Putting your computer in sleep mode might feel like a time-saving hack, but it’s actually wasting more energy than you realise. In fact, many electric appliances in your home, like your TV, use small amounts of energy while plugged in and switched on at the mains, even if the device itself is switched off.

Make sure when you’re not using something that you switch it completely off and switch it off at the mains for good measure, especially at the end of each day.

Use smart thermostats

Smart thermostats let you control the heating in your home from wherever you are using a handy app. So instead of worrying about if you’ve left the heating on at home when you’ve already left for work, or don’t want to come back to a chilly home after a long day, you can create a schedule or manually switch the heating on and off from your phone.

Make sure you have proper insulation

Draughty doors and windows work against you to keep the heat in during the winter, and keep the heat out during the summer. This makes your heating system work harder to warm up your living space when it’s cold outside, and your air conditioning system or fans have to run for longer to cool your space down in the summer.

Putting an old scarf at the bottom of a draughty door can help block it, and draught strips dor both doors and windows can be bought online and are relatively inexpensive.

Because heat rises, it’s important to make sure your loft is properly insulated too, so that your home doesn’t lose too much heat through the roof.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Everyone should be following the above ‘3 Rs of the environment’ to combat overconsumption This cuts the need for the production of new items, which all use up a lot of energy in the manufacturing process.

Use sustainable transportation

It’s no secret that gas-guzzling vehicles are one of the culprits of climate change. But while most of us aren’t likely to hop on a private jet or board a giant cruise ship every day, many of us do have the option to leave our cars at home more often and take the bus or train instead.

The UK government’s transport decarbonisation plan aims to decarbonise all forms of domestic transport by 2050, including reducing domestic aviation and rail to net zero carbon emissions.

Be conscious of your water usage

You probably already know how important it is to conserve water. But did you know that water also contributes to carbon emissions?

Water usually needs to be treated before we use it, and then afterwards before it’s returned to the environment. These treatment processes all contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases – so the more water used, the more emissions are generated.

Use renewable energy sources

If you’re fortunate enough to afford the initial outlay, solar panels are a great way of generating your own renewable energy at home. If not, some energy firms offer green energy tariffs, and supply energy generated from renewable sources such as wind and solar power.

Support businesses that support eco-initiatives

Businesses have a massive part to play in helping to save the environment. And more and more are making an effort to reduce their carbon footprint by taking part in green initiatives in their day-to-day business, for example supporting tree planting initiatives.

Utility Warehouse’s tree-planting initiative sees a tree planted for each new customer who bundles three or more services with them. The ever-growing UW Woodland is located on Bryn Arw in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Go paperless with bills

As well as planting trees, it’s also important to save them, too, so they can continue to absorb carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. And, of course, once trees are cut down they need to be processed – resulting in yet more emissions.

A multiservice company, Utility Warehouse (UW) makes it easy to switch to paperless bills, which can then be viewed in your online account or in the UW app.

The biggest players in cutting carbon emissions are the big companies of the world. But individuals can do their part, too. And by making at least some of these practical steps a habit in daily life, we can all work together to reduce our carbon footprint, and take steps towards a more eco-friendly world.

The post Green Living 101: Practical Ways to Cut Carbon and Save Energy appeared first on Green Prophet.

Every household should strive for financial efficiency, considering how expensive bills are now, and one impactful avenue often overlooked is energy consumption. While swapping incandescent bulbs for LEDs is a known energy-saving hack, true efficiency is a holistic venture that extends beyond just light fixtures. Let’s embark on a journey to unveil practical and often disregarded strategies, shedding light on how considering the role of well-insulated doors and windows can illuminate your path to substantial energy and cost savings.

Understanding the Dynamics of Energy Efficiency

Efficiency goes hand in hand with awareness. Beyond the illumination provided by energy-efficient bulbs, scrutinising the dynamics of your home’s energy consumption can reveal surprising revelations. Unquestionably, lighting contributes, but equally important are the structural elements that regulate your home’s climate.

Weather Stripping Matters

Even the most energy-efficient doors and windows can’t perform optimally if there are gaps allowing drafts. Weatherstripping emerges as a cost-effective solution to seal these often overlooked crevices. A small investment in quality weather stripping enhances the longevity of your doors and windows and results in substantial energy savings. 

Windows and Doors to Keep Warm

While we often view windows and doors as mere architectural elements, they wield profound influence over your home’s energy dynamics. Windows with poor seals, for example, will create drafts in your home. New windows, especially with double or triple glazing, will help you save money – statistics show triple-glazed windows can save up to 50% on energy bills.

Doors work similarly – well-fitted internal doors keep rooms warm and well-insulated. Visit websites like doorways.co.uk for good examples. It’s these inexpensive changes to make to your home that can save you money on expensive energy bills in the long run.

Energy-Saving Habits for Your Home

It’s not only about what you can add to your home. It’s about what you can do when you’re in it. Consider these practical tips to make your home more energy-conscious:

Mindful Thermostat Control

Setting your thermostat to lower temperatures during winter and keeping it on constantly is more eco-friendly than turning it on and off. Experts recommend keeping it between 16 and 17 degrees. Programmable thermostats can automate this process.

Lighting Choices Matter

Opt for energy-efficient LED bulbs – you won’t notice a difference between them and incandescent bulbs. They last longer and consume significantly less energy.

Unplug Unused Devices

Electronics in standby mode still draw power – standby power is estimated to account for up to 40% of a device’s total power usage. Unplug chargers and devices when not in use to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Newer appliances are more energy-efficient focused – you’ll notice the energy rating stickers on most if not all, new appliances. They may have a higher upfront cost but lead to long-term savings and reduced energy consumption.

For a more energy-conscious lifestyle, broaden your focus beyond the conventional tips. There are tons of ways that we can be more energy-conscious in the home. In 2024, sustainability and climate change will be a big topic as the earth’s temperature rises each year.

The post Save More Money on Bills by Being Energy-Conscious appeared first on Green Prophet.