Whether for smartphone screens or solar cells: Precious metals such as iridium or ruthenium are in high demand. Researchers from Basel have developed a cheaper and less toxic alternative.

ETH researchers have developed a method that could possibly replace insulin injections for diabetics in the future. In a gene network built into cells, insulin production can be switched on with green light.

Astronauts cannot do their laundry - and also have to share certain items of clothing with their colleagues. Austrian researchers are now investigating how microbes could be used to keep more than just underwear clean in space.

Road pavements require bitumen as a binder. But its production has many disadvantages. Empa researchers are now experimenting with string, which holds gravel together without the need for concrete - and is also more flexible, more permeable to rainwater and more environmentally friendly.

Melanin is more valuable than gold. Researchers at Empa recently succeeded in extracting large quantities of the pigment from the honey fungus. One of the intended applications of this versatile substance is to restore antique wind instruments.

Viennese complexity researchers have found a method to predict the growth of cities. This could facilitate much more efficient urban development and help conserve resources.

Cement production is responsible for 9 percent of carbon emissions in Switzerland. Researchers at Empa believe that this can be changed. Even cement production methods that absorb more CO₂ than they emit are on the horizon.

Climate change is too complex for most laypersons to really understand its effects. Researchers have now launched an interactive online platform that offers easily understandable insights into the most important scenarios and models.