sustainable design

Researchers have uncovered the mechanical properties of the nanoscale "thorns" that grow inside lithium batteries, which can cause them to short circuit or even combust. This paves the way to stop these growths forming, preserving battery power.

PLAT ASIA has completed the Volcano-In Hotel of Arrivals in Inner Mongolia, China. The resort forms part of a wider development within an ancient volcanic field and seeks to combine high-end accommodation with land rehabilitation in a fragile ecosystem.

A visitor center built within an extinct volcanic formation has been completed in Inner Mongolia, China. The 3,532-square-meter (38,018-sq-ft) project minimizes its footprint on the fragile landscape, while focusing on soil erosion prevention.

German designers are taking a whole new approach to seating furniture. The pieces they've created are convertible, durable, recyclable, and could potentially become one of the most sustainable offerings the industry has ever seen.

This stunning concept machine combines race-inspired styling and a number of innovative ideas for maximizing performance – including the use of a sustainable, lightweight natural composite for its bodywork.

Zaha Hadid Architects has revealed plans for the largest airport in Africa. As you might expect from the firm, this ambitious building is very striking, and it will take the form of a massive futuristic structure in the desert.

While this may look like a minimalist pair of titanium chopsticks, it's so much more. It's actually a modular everyday-carry tool that can shapeshift into four other different forms. And there are only a few days left to get it at its discounted rate.

Inspired by a vision to support nature, architectural firm Studio Link-Arc has completed the Yunlu Wetland Museum in Yunlu Wetland Park in Shunde, within southern China’s Pearl River Delta. It combines a bird-watching tower with exhibition spaces.

Shaped by a vision to maintain the ecological and architectural integrity of a post-war neighborhood, architectural firm OFIS has completed the House under the Poplars in the Murgle district of Ljubljana, Slovenia.

This year has produced more than its fair share of fantastic buildings. From a house that was 3D printed using soil, to an upcoming megatall skyscraper, here's our selection of the best architecture from the past 12 months.

From water-skipping robots to elephant-skin inspired cooling materials, engineers have continued to find inspiration in nature in order to move technology forward for humans. And it's set to take center-stage in the new age of robotics.

ARIA – 'Anyone Repairs It Anywhere' – is more than a clever acronym. This prototype EV created by students at TU/ecomotive aims to convince the car industry and policymakers that sustainable, repairable vehicle design is commercially achievable.