Trends & Innovations - Friday
Science cafes draw audiences
Cafes that combine adult science education and beer or coffee are gaining popularity, Wired.com reports. Some cafes feature scientists lecturing on such topics as global warming to the secret life of lichens. Experts also seek to engage customers in discussions. Many cafes are sponsored by universities and museums. The movement started in the U.K. in late 1990s, and an organization called Cafe Scientifique holds conferences. About 60 science cafes exist across the U.S.
Heat melts away asbestos danger
Scientists in Japan developed a new technology that melts toxic asbestos into liquids that quickly become sealed solids to be easily removed without risk of spreading harmful powder. Strong infrared rays from a newly developed gasket will quickly melt asbestos on concrete walls in a few seconds. But the heat won’t damage concrete, Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology researchers said. Asbestos was widely used in chemical plants, and the disposing process became an issue due to serious health hazards.
Plastic shopping bags have been phased out in several countries worldwide, and the U.S. is seeing evidence of the trend as well. Whole Foods Market will phase out the bags by April, Ikea has introduced a 5-cent charge for bags at its U.S. stores and Wal-Mart has begun selling reusable bags for $1. Americans use an estimated 100 bil bags a year, or at least 330 per person.
Mobile phone shop workers in Japan are facing a government-backed exam. Many Japanese use high-tech mobile phones and frequently switch their phones to new ones. But users often feel confused with complicated functions and pricing systems. The exam includes questions such as how to block spam e-mail or set up parental controls on browsing Web sites. The telecom ministry plans to require sales workers to take exams regularly after they pass the first exam.
Unmanned aircraft that help with scientific work are drawing more attention from the Nat’l Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It plans a new $3 mil investment in this area. The aircraft will study Arctic climate change, fisheries, hurricanes and other storms.
