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Creating
Chemistry
For a sustainable future
Issue two 2012
A role model
for sustainable Also in this issue:
8 Rethinking our energy future: How smart and visionary technologies might
energy use? help power the cities of tomorrow.
28 Hungry for change: Two experts present their differing strategies on how to
Director of Sustainability tackle malnutrition.
Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany (photo) 36 Let there be light: An introduction to the illuminating world of OLED technology.
presents the ambitious Masdar 42 Pick of the packs: Packaging ideas from around the globe.
City energy-saving project.
50 Scrap value: How recycling precious metals from electrical waste can help
Interview on page 16 conserve limited resources.
Contents
Information Innovation
4 The world in figures 26 New discoveries
The key numbers from this issue’s topics. Smart ideas that might enrich our lives.
Inspiration From two perspectives: For & Against
6 Staging a green revolution 28 Better nourishment for all?
How Hollywood star Cate Blanchett is transforming M. G. Venkatesh Mannar from the Micronutrient
the Sydney Theatre Company’s home into a Initiative and Frank Braßel from Oxfam explain their
showpiece for sustainable building. differing strategies for combating malnutrition.
Viewpoint BASF
Our journey towards the energy 34 The best investment in human development
8 supply of the future. Walter Dissinger, President of the Nutrition & Health
division at BASF, reveals how BASF contributes to
fighting malnutrition.
Cover story Feature: Quality of life
The issue 36 The reinvention of light
8 Towards a new future for sustainable Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) have
energy use the potential to revolutionize the lighting market.
Energy efficiency is at the top of the sustainability
agenda. Some innovative and unconventional Insight
ideas give a glimpse of what our energy future 42 A glimpse around the globe: packaging
might look like. Packaging might seem inconspicuous but it’s
an essential part of our lives. We explore some
The graphic creative packaging ideas from around the world.
14 Energy harvesting
How can we fight malnutrition? In the future, city-dwellers could be generating Feature: Food and nutrition
28 Two perspectives. energy without even noticing it thanks to the 44 Boxing clever
harvesting of small amounts of ambient energy. Not just an empty box: Innovations ensure that food
packaging is affordable, sustainable and safe.
The expert
16 The diplomat for sustainability Feature: Resources, environment and climate
Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany, Director of Sustainability 50 From trash to treasure
at Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, explains how this There could soon be a shortage of raw materials
ambitious energy-saving project works. for important future technologies. We examine
how electrical waste recycling can help preserve
The reality these resources.
20 The BASF Verbund
Since its founding, BASF has continued to Invention
demonstrate how intelligent systems can increase 56 Pioneering thinker – then and now
energy efficiency. We take a look behind German chemist Justus von Liebig is seen as the
the scenes. founder of organic chemistry. Today, Professor
Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) Dr. Junji Kido from Japan is following in his footsteps.
36 are reinventing artificial light. The science
24 Winds of change Ingenuity
The technology to generate power from the wind 58 Chemistry around us
has been around for 125 years. We examine its How does a shirt become non-iron?
history more closely. A short explanation of an everyday solution.
22 A look behind the scenes CO2
emissions
of the BASF Verbund
Natural gas
Incineration
Power plant system
2 | Creating Chemistry Steam
Welcome
How can we use energy efficiently?
Everybody needs energy – to keep our homes cool in the summer and warm
in the winter, to keep our economy going and to connect with each other
worldwide. Our needs are growing daily: By 2050, humanity will consume
two to three times more energy than it does today.
Energy efficiency is the focus of this issue of Creating Chemistry. This was the
concern mentioned most frequently in our last reader survey. Of course, we are
very keen to hear your views this time, too. Please let us know what you think
of this issue at www.basf.com/creatingchemistry.
For BASF, energy efficiency is crucial. We require lots of energy, and it costs
money. This is why we have been striving for decades to manage resources
carefully. For example, we use the heat produced as a by-product from one
plant to provide energy for another (page 20).
But energy efficiency has another dimension for us. We are working on solutions
that help you save energy, too. For example, we are researching organic LEDs
that are not only economical to use but also completely reinvent artificial light
(page 36).
Renewable energy demands innovations from the chemical industry.
Our products can be found in wind turbines (page 24) and solar installations.
There are many other ideas and methods of producing energy, as well: In New
York, for example, excess pressure in the drinking water system is being
converted into electrical energy (page 10).
We need progress of this kind because our planet’s resources are limited.
The breakthroughs we are seeing now are just the beginning. I am convinced
that in five or ten years, we will be able to find other answers and ways of doing
things even better.
Dr. Kurt Bock
Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors
BASF SE
Creating Chemistry | 3
Information
The 50
The number of countries that require mandatory
world
fortification of certain staple foods with specific
nutrients to improve public health.1
See Better nourishment for all? on page 28.
in
figures Food and nutrition
30%
Around one third of all the food
produced worldwide – 1.3 billion
metric tons – is lost or wasted
every year. 2
Resources,
environment and climate
$110*
The amount that the average
household could save every year by
turning off electrical devices and
lights when leaving a room.3
$4.4 billion
The estimated value of the global market
for energy harvesting by 2021.4
See Energy harvesting on page 14.
*In this issue the conversion of euros to U.S. dollars is based on the average exchange rate on
December 31, 2011, when €1 cost $1.2939. The $ symbol always refers to U.S. dollars.
4 | Creating Chemistry
Resources, environment
and climate
40 million
The number of metric tons
of electronic waste that are
produced worldwide each year.9
90%
The percentage of the world’s
Resources, rare earth deposits that are
environment and climate found in China.10
100
The number of vehicles that would
252 meters
The predicted diameter of wind
cause as much pollution as just one turbine rotor blades by 2020. In
$1
vehicle produced prior to 1974, thanks 1980, the average diameter of
to today’s modern catalysts.6 rotor blades was 15 meters.11
The value of the gold typically Food and nutrition
found in a single cell phone.5 25% of the world’s population used iodized
See From trash to treasure on page 50. salt in 1990. Now it is more than 70%.12
1990 25% 2012 70%
2 billion
The number of people
worldwide who suffer from
malnutrition and other
nutrition-related diseases.13
95 – 115 kg
The amount of edible
food per person that is
thrown away each year
in industrialized countries.14
Resources,
environment and climate Quality of life
20% 100
How many times thinner
Masdar City’s goal is to use the diameter of the organic
just one-fifth of energy consumed layer in organic light-
20C
by a similar sized city.8 emitting diodes (OLEDs) is
compared to a human hair.15
The reduction in average temperature in Masdar City
(compared to outside of the city) possible through 20%
The percentage of the
using traditional Arabic construction techniques.7 world’s electricity consumption
See The diplomat for sustainability on page 16. that is accounted for by
generating light.16
1. www.foodinsight.org; 2. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Statistical Yearbook 2012; 3. German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety; 4. IDTechEx:
Energy Harvesting and Storage for Electronic Devices 2011-2021; 5. Jon Mooallem: The Afterlife of Cellphones, New York Times, 2008; 6. BASF Metals Recycling; 7. Masdar City; 8. Masdar City; 9. United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP); 10. European Commission; 11. European Wind Energy Association (EWEA); 12. Micronutrient Initiative; 13. World Health Organization (WHO); 14. Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations (FAO): Statistical Yearbook 2012; 15. www.oled-lights.org; 16. Dresden University of Technology
Creating Chemistry | 5
Inspiration
Staging a green
revolution
November 26, 2010: Cate Blanchett stands on the roof of an old harbor building in Sydney known as “The Wharf,” the
home of the Sydney Theatre Company. Immediately after becoming co-artistic directors of the theater, the Hollywood
star and her husband set themselves the ambitious goal of transforming the heritage structure into a showcase for green
building. Now, they are celebrating a major milestone with the installation of the second largest photovoltaic rooftop array
in Australia. A lot has happened since then.
hen Hollywood of Community Programs and the man directly to the landfill by the theater is BASF’s new North
W
star Cate in charge of implementing Greening being reduced,” says Patrick McIntyre, American headquarters
Blanchett and the Wharf. General Manager of the STC. The
her husband, system had a positive impact almost Lowering the energy consumption
playwright and Shrinking the carbon footprint as soon as it was installed, with a of buildings is also an important
director Andrew In 2010, the building project marked significant reduction in the amount goal for BASF. Its new North
Upton, became co-artistic directors its first major milestone: the rooftop of waste thrown away. American Headquarters in Florham
of the Sydney Theatre Company installation of Australia’s second Promoting real changes in Park, New Jersey, which opened in
(STC) four years ago, they not only largest photovoltaic rooftop array. behavior and attitude is one of the May 2012 and provides room for
focused on the repertoire, but also The 1,906 solar panels now produce more challenging goals of Greening 1,400 employees, is one example of
on the conversion of the heritage about 427,000 kilowatt hours of the Wharf. As Blanchett explains: BASF’s commitment in this regard.
building housing the theater. With the electricity annually. To meet its water “One of the key roles of theater and More than 30 BASF products were
“Greening the Wharf” project, they conservation targets, the theater the arts more broadly is to stimulate used during the construction of this
wanted to combine their two great installed a sophisticated rainwater social change by bringing vision to 30,200 square meter (325,000
passions: art and climate protection. recycling system. A gigantic tank action through forum, experimentation square foot) building. It meets the
“Theater is very much engaged in under the pier supplies all the and debate.” The STC has developed highest environmental standards
the time and place in which it is non-drinkable water used by the STC a model that resonates far beyond and was designed to fulfill the
made,” says Cate Blanchett, and its restaurant “The Bar at the End the walls of the old harbor building: requirements of the United States’
explaining her motivation for the of the Wharf”. Now, drinking water Not only does it aim to engage the Green Building Council’s Platinum
project (www.greeningthewharf.com). is no longer flushed down the toilet. neighboring district of Barangaroo LEED® certification (Leadership in
“And the greatest challenge facing us These easy-to-implement and create a modern wharf area Energy and Environmental Design),
as a species at the moment is climate measures have been highly effective, here, it also wants to inspire other which promotes sustainable
change. We felt that, as a theater reducing the STC’s carbon footprint by art and cultural organizations around construction techniques.
company, if we did not engage 80%. With these results, the theater’s the world. One of the special features
with this incredible challenge we management has demonstrated that of the headquarters is the efficient
all face, then very quickly we would older heritage buildings can be Green Award use of natural resources through
become irrelevant.” ecologically transformed. “We believe To make these goals possible, intelligent systems. In comparison
Her goals are ambitious: to that change is possible without a around $5.6 million (€4.3 million) has to conventional buildings, this
produce 70% of the electricity correlating loss of quality,” Blanchett been invested in Greening the Wharf, reduces water usage by at least
required by the theater and its said at a recent panel discussion 40% and energy consumption
restaurant onsite and to save called “Creating a Climate for Change”. by more than 20%. Furthermore,
11.3 million liters of water each at least 20% of the materials used
year – enough to fill four Olympic- Waste is turned into biogas come from recycled components.
size swimming pools. To achieve Their drive for innovation did not end This is even true for the furniture:
this, the Greening the Wharf project with the theater; Blanchett and Upton chairs were partly crafted from
team focuses on measures such as also investigated how to make the old plastic bottles, with each seat
an automated energy management restaurant more environmentally containing 111 recycled items
system for heating, ventilation and friendly. Today, organic waste from of packaging.
air conditioning and energy-efficient the restaurant kitchen is converted
stage lighting. “The project is into energy and fertilizer, while other
ambitious and broad in scope,” waste is turned into biogas. “We are Above The Histrionic by Thomas Bernhard is just
explains Paul O’Byrne, STC’s Director thrilled that the level of waste sent one of many plays on the theater’s 2012 program.
6 | Creating Chemistry
Left On the roof of Sydney
Theatre Company in Walsh Bay:
Cate Blanchett (right) and her
husband, Andrew Upton (left),
together with the chairman of
Suntech, Dr. Zhengrong Shi,
and his wife, Vivienne, inaugurate
one of the largest solar rooftop
arrays in Australia. This project
was enabled by a donation from
the chairman’s family foundation.
All images courtesy of Sydney
Theatre Company
provided by private donors as well
as partners from politics, business
and academia. The project was
also supported by the Australian
government’s “Green Precincts
Program”. For project manager
O’Byrne, the money is well invested:
“The full project impact will require
a few more years’ data, but we
know that the investment is already
significantly reducing the financial
burden that increasing utility costs
add to our annual budget.”
Greening the Wharf has
provided the theater with an even
more promising future ecologically,
economically and socially. This
achievement has recently been
publicly recognized: Greening the
Wharf has seen Cate Blanchett –
already the recipient of an Oscar
and two Golden Globes – honored
further. Along with Andrew Upton,
she was awarded two Green
Globe Awards in 2010, one for
Sustainability Excellence and one
for Community Sustainability.
Cate Blanchett
Hollywood star and Academy Award
winner Cate Blanchett takes a
hands-on role in climate protection.
Her declared goal is to reduce her
personal carbon footprint by
13,300 kilograms. To that end, she
and her husband Andrew Upton have
not only carried out green renovations
at the Sydney Theatre Company,
but also at their home near Sydney.
To promote climate protection more
widely, the Australian actress has
taken to the political stage. As a
prominent advocate, she got involved
in the emotional 2011 debate about
the introduction of a carbon tax in
Australia. Since 2007, she has
also been Patron of SolarAid, an
international NGO bringing solar
power to developing countries.
To find out more, visit:
www.greeningthewharf.com
Creating Chemistry | 7
Cover story: The issue Towards a new future for sustainable energy use Experts worldwide are developing innovative and visionary energy concepts for the future. Their aims are to find ways to use existing energy sources more efficiently and to improve the viability of alternative sources of power. The desired outcome is to take the pressure off more conventional means of producing energy while still meeting growing global demand. Some cities are beginning to establish themselves as pioneers of this new approach, but how successful are they? A special train transports these rotor blades to their destination – a new wind power station in Australia. 8 | Creating Chemistry
Creating Chemistry | 9
Cover story: The issue
he highways of Energy harvesting in everyday life An alternative market is emerging; City. A system of pipelines allows
T
California may soon be Using roads as mini power stations is U.S. market research companies water to flow into the center moved
known not just for their a prime example of how new ways of estimate global revenues from by gravity alone, at a pressure that
endless distances. A bill producing energy are being sought, energy harvesting at $663 million enables it to reach the upper floors
recently adopted in the even in familiar areas of life. Energy (€512 million) a year. By 2021, this of the city’s highest skyscrapers
U.S. state will transform harvesting, as it is known, describes should rise to $4.4 billion (€3.4 billion). without a pump. However, this high
roads into small power stations that the notion of producing small amounts But many of the novel devices used pressure becomes too much for
will harness the vibrations from of energy and electricity from our to harvest energy have a problem: pipes to withstand once they reach
moving cars. This phenomenon immediate environment in order to Compared to the cost of a people’s homes. A pressure regulator
is called piezoelectricity; certain ultimately produce a significant conventional battery with the same is therefore used to reduce the
minerals are deformed and become quantity of energy. From hybrid cars, power, they are still too expensive. pressure in the urban water pipelines
electrically charged in response to to watches that charge themselves from more than 40 to just over 4 bars.
applied mechanical stress. Sensors through motion, and electronic tea Water pipes producing energy In the future, the New York
in the road convert this mechanical lights that convert heat into electricity The search for economic and company Rentricity wants to replace
energy into electrical energy. On using a thermoelectric effect, there are intelligent approaches to alternative the pressure regulators with a
a two-lane, half-mile section of opportunities to harvest energy forms of energy production is flow-to-wire element – a turbine that
road, up to 44 megawatts can everywhere. Although these methods an important concern worldwide. will convert the excess pressure
be produced, according to the are ridiculed by some as misguided, Countries and cities have long into electrical energy. Similar to wind
proponents of this technology. others see this as a viable means of sought to work out where new and solar power, this process does
The total energy generated from producing energy in the future. energy infrastructure might be not produce any emissions. In the
roads could be sufficient to supply The equipment used to harvest created – but there is also new U.S. state of New Hampshire,
30,000 households with electricity. energy works on a small scale in potential being discovered in existing Rentricity has already installed the
Although it is questionable exactly the same way as large solar systems. In the area’s ‘green lung’ first such generator unit in the water
whether these values can actually installations and wind turbines – even around 200 kilometers (125 miles) treatment plant for the city of Keene.
be achieved, the basic idea of though it is not yet as efficient. It north of Manhattan, the reservoirs of This mini power station has an output
harnessing small energy packets in harnesses ambient energy that the Catskill Mountains store the water of 62 kilowatts and supplies the plant
our everyday lives is widely accepted. would otherwise be lost. supply for the whole of New York with electricity.
10 | Creating Chemistrytheir annual coal consumption a self-sufficient energy supply
by 17,000 metric tons. In around based on alternative energy sources,
15 years, the city will be complete is focusing on microgrids. These
and will house a population low-voltage grids are to be trialled
of 350,000. on the small island of Pulau Ubin,
On a much smaller scale, but which will be a test site for green
with similar environmental ambitions, energy technologies.
Masdar City in the United Arab Microgrids are closed regional
Emirates is also taking shape. energy systems integrating
The energy supply for this model decentralized energy producers,
city will come entirely from local, consumers, and sometimes storage
renewable sources (see interview facilities. These relatively small grids
on pages 16-19). operate intelligently. They can be
linked up to the higher-level grid or
Clever grids run separately from it, whereby the
Cities and countries are also seeking connection can be opened or closed
innovative ways of securing their according to needs.
energy supply through measures Even if the central transmission
involving their electricity grids. or distribution grid fails, the microgrid
The city-state of Singapore, which continues to operate. The consumer
does not have any raw material can then take electricity directly from
reserves of its own and is promoting the decentralized generation units. >>
As far as renewable energy sources
are concerned, a clear strategy toward
economic viability is needed – even if
this requires a continued commitment
to state aid over a number of years in
Cities such as New York are
focusing on innovative energy order to achieve it.
concepts. It is planning to use
Maria van der Hoeven, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency
the excess pressure in its water
pipes to produce energy.
Innovative urban planning Developers are building the city
While cities such as New York are entirely according to the tenets of
optimizing their existing structures, the efficient energy systems. Intelligent
planning of new housing developments town planning ensures that distances
often focuses on efficient energy use are kept short, and a sophisticated
from the outset. This is demonstrated recycling system and environmentally
by an example from Asia, where a new friendly local transport system are
wave of enthusiasm for saving energy being developed. Desalinated
has been building for some time. seawater and recycled water are fed
In 2007, the Prime Ministers of into the water supply chain, covering
China and Singapore signed a half of the city’s water needs. On
framework agreement for the roofs, solar panels and rainwater
construction of the “Tianjin Eco-city” utilization systems ensure the supply
covering an area of 31 square of warm water. The energy for the
kilometers (12 square miles). Several planned 240,000 square meters
companies from China and (about 2,600,000 square feet) of
Singapore have equal shares in this residential and office space is
$9.7 billion (€7.5 billion) joint venture. produced by a small power station
The city is being built 40 kilometers using solar cells and geothermal
(25 miles) outside the port of Tianjin facilities. These renewable energy
in Northern China. With an integrated sources will account for one-fifth of
overall design, as well as the latest the urban energy mix. The rest will Above Maria van der Hoeven has been
technology and incentives for be generated by coal, which is still Executive Director of the International Energy
Agency since 2011. In this role, she represents To find out more, visit:
environmentally friendly behavior, used widely in China, but here too
the major industrialized countries on energy
the aim is to keep the energy the focus will be on efficiency. Thanks www.iea.org
matters on the international stage.
consumption of the city’s inhabitants to modern technology, the power www.tianjinecocity.gov.sg
to a minimum. stations outside the city will reduce
Creating Chemistry | 11Cover story: The issue
Energy-saving tips Shale gas is mixing up
the energy market
Turn down the heating: Replace traditional bulbs:
Lowering the temperature in the Fluorescent tubes and energy-saving Renewable energy sources alone
home by just 1.8F (1C) reduces lamps use around a quarter of the will not be able to secure our
energy costs by 6%. energy of traditional bulbs. The U.S. energy supply in the foreseeable
Department of Energy claims future. Fossil fuels will also still be
Unplug appliances and that simply changing every bulb in required to provide the base load –
switch off lights: Don’t leave the United States to an energy-saving the amount of energy that must be
electronic devices such as TVs, model would cut CO 2 emissions by available around the clock to supply
computers and stereos in stand-by 400 million metric tons a year. all homes, businesses and public
mode, and turn lights off when institutions with electricity. But
leaving the room. This can save the Insulate wherever possible: resources are limited. Alongside
average household around $110 Ensure that windows and doors around the development of new energy
(€85) per year. the home are fully sealed. Use a lit concepts, major efforts are being
candle to test for drafts by observing made to find unconventional
Get economical in the whether the flame is blown out or deposits and innovative extraction
kitchen: The kitchen offers flutters when close to window or door methods for raw materials.
numerous ways to save energy. frames. Check how walls and roofs can Shale gas is a particularly hot
Only fill your kettle with as much be better insulated – infrared thermal topic at present. In the United
water as you need to boil, and place imaging shows where energy is being States, it’s undergoing a real boom;
a lid over saucepans to conserve lost. According to the German Energy the widespread extraction of shale
energy while cooking. Use the Agency, the right insulation can lead gas has led natural gas prices to
right-sized hob or burner, and to savings of up to 80%. fall by up to 80% over the last few
regularly defrost the fridge-freezer – years. Shale gas is found in thick
ideally twice a year. clay and shale formations at depths
of up to 4,000 meters (2.5 miles),
Source: German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) where it is trapped in small pores.
Special techniques are required
for extraction, such as hydraulic
Although they are less efficient in the cycle and reused, thus saving sources and nuclear power. “As far fracturing – or “fracking”. Here, a
producing electricity than central resources (see diagram on pages as renewable energy sources are mixture of water and quartz sand,
installations, they ensure that a local 22 and 23). concerned, a clear strategy toward containing 0.5% to 2% chemical
energy supply is guaranteed in the “By increasing energy efficiency, economic viability is needed – even if additives, is pumped into the rock
event of disruptions to the central grid. it might be possible to ensure that this requires a continued commitment at high pressure, to create fissures.
These decentralized microgrids demand for energy does not rise at to state aid over a number of years The gas can then escape via these
situated close to consumers enable the same pace as economic growth,” in order to achieve it,” she stresses. fissures, and funnel through the
the electricity grid to be stabilized says Maria van der Hoeven, Executive If politics and business work borehole at the surface. The quartz
when electricity needs rise. Director of the International Energy effectively together, a growing share sand remains in the rock, and acts
Together with a further expansion of Agency (IEA). of renewable energy sources in as a support material to keep the
central grids, microgrids can help in Van der Hoeven is also convinced overall supply can become more than cracks open. The additives prevent
achieving the transition to a new that “we must not only try to use less just a nice-sounding idea. That said, the fissures from becoming
energy era. and less in the way of old energy experts are divided on how quickly blocked, and thus increase the gas
sources, but also guarantee that the and to what extent this vision can output. Critics claim the technology
Corporate energy sustainability costs of new energy sources reflect become reality. For example, the could be harmful to the
In the past few years, more and more the true costs.” This means boosting German Advisory Council on the environment; however, it has been
companies have started meeting their efficiency, but also phasing out Environment is convinced, according used without any problems in oil
energy demands with their own wind fossil fuel subsidies and pricing in to a 2010 report, that Germany will and gas extraction for decades.
parks and photovoltaic and biogas externalities (such as through carbon be able to supply all its energy needs The American shale gas boom
installations. In addition, many firms pricing) to make renewable energy from renewable sources by 2050. has had a big impact on the U.S.
are attempting to increase their sources marketable and competitive. However, this report uses model economy. As a result, energy-
efficiency by producing more energy calculations and working hypotheses intensive industries can operate
from fewer resources, and saving The political vision based on technologies that are at lower costs due to reduced
both money and energy by keeping According to van der Hoeven, currently not ready for the market, energy prices, and thus enjoy
heat losses to a minimum. One governments can make a major such as geothermal energy and competitive advantages.
example is the LED factory of contribution to the development compressed air storage. Critics
Siemens subsidiary Osram in and deployment of clean energy therefore doubt whether this scenario
Regensburg, Germany. Its design technologies and new energy will truly be realistic by 2050.
enables incidental heat produced sources “by giving greater support Fossil fuels are still an essential
by machinery to be captured and to research in this area and creating source right now and will continue
fed into other production equipment. attractive underlying conditions for to play an important role in energy
According to Siemens, this saves innovation and private investment.” supply in the future. New potential
the company around $1.2 million She sees the optimal energy mix of is offered by unconventional deposits,
(€900,000) in energy costs each year. the future as a more efficient and such as shale gas stored in porous
The BASF Verbund system also cleaner use of fossil fuels in rocks up to 4,000 meters (2.5 miles)
shows how energy can be kept within combination with renewable energy below the Earth’s surface, which can
12 | Creating Chemistrybe extracted by means of a complex case – and it would no longer be
technical process (see box on fed from the solar installation on
the right). the roof into the grid.
Many experts consider power-to- Without forgoing
Intelligent electricity and steam
energy storage
gas to be another promising option
for long-term electricity storage.
things, it will not be
Energy production is only one side of The power-to-gas concept involves possible in the long
the coin; storage methods are crucial
too. Solar and wind energy output
converting excess energy into
methane, which is then fed into
term to achieve
fluctuates, but electricity is used on the natural gas network. any political targets
a continuous basis. Shortfalls in
production or peaks in electricity Cost effectiveness
relating to the
consumption must therefore be Energy storage continues to face reduction of energy
evened out using efficient storage
technology. This is the only way in
a number of challenges. “All the new
storage solutions under discussion
consumption.
which goals such as those agreed are still a long way from crossing the
to in Germany can be achieved; with threshold of cost effectiveness – plus,
its reform package adopted in 2011, efficiency is still too low and the
the country has set itself big targets
to bring about a shift in its energy
conversion losses too high,” says
former head of the German Federal
A question
supply. It is aiming, by 2020, to
produce more than 35% of the
Network Agency Matthias Kurth,
who is now a lecturer in energy
of motivation
electricity in its grid from renewable issues at the University of Bonn. Dr. Florian G. Kaiser, professor does not help just to live closer
energy sources, but for that it needs “Things might improve in the coming of social psychology at the to nature. You also have to use
the right storage facilities. Professor years, of course, but even then hardly University of Magdeburg, it for your personal recreation.
Dr. Ulrich Wagner, Head of Energy anybody will get involved in major Germany, on social pressure to In Sweden and Norway, this use
and Transport at the German projects unless funding is available save energy and the impact of of nature is truly impressive. A
Aerospace Center in Cologne, once more.” one’s own experience of nature. relatively high proportion of leisure
expects the need for such storage So when will the vision of U.S. time is spent on activities in a
facilities to become increasingly economist Jeremy Rifkin become Creating Chemistry: Switching natural environment. There are also
apparent in future and grow reality? The influential thinker whose off lights, pulling out plugs, indications from several research
constantly over time. He stresses ideas have inspired energy reform avoiding waste – we know how groups that those who use nature
that “we must therefore come up is not only demanding a complete to save resources. Why then for their active recreation tend
with something new as far as storage shift to renewable energy but the do we often fail to do it? to be more motivated to behave
technology is concerned.” dismantling of hierarchies between Professor Dr. Florian G. Kaiser: in a resource-efficient and
Yet storing energy in the form producers and consumers as well: Because we are occupied with environmentally friendly manner.
of electricity is not easy. Storage “This Third Industrial Revolution other things. The goal of saving
requires conversion, which always will be driven by millions of people electricity and resources is not How can a person with only
leads to some energy loss. worldwide who produce electricity in a primary concern like eating, limited environmental
Pumped storage achieves a high their own homes and share surpluses drinking, and sleeping; it is, at awareness be encouraged
efficiency. It enables energy to be via an intelligent network.” Rifkin is best, a secondary, learned one. to save energy?
stored by pumping water into a vessel now 67. He still hopes to see his Not to mention that saving energy To get somebody to save energy,
situated at a height. To produce vision come to fruition. ultimately means each of us will it is of course possible to raise
electricity, the water is released to have to give up some personal the price of energy or apply social
flow down to a lower vessel and thus benefits. The easiest way out for pressure to save energy. If, for
drive a turbine. However, this system some is currently to buy an example, penalties are imposed
can only be used in geographically energy-efficient fridge, an for throwing away paper in a public
suitable locations, and many sites energy-efficient car, or a house space, then less paper will be
have already been in service for a that uses minimal energy. We thrown away. Energy savings could
long time. There is therefore very should begin broaching the subject also be achieved by each of us
little expansion potential in Germany of doing without in the debate being a little more motivated to
and the rest of Europe. about what form energy should consume a bit less. Looking at the
Besides pumped storage power take, the shift to alternative energy unchanged figures for per capita
stations, experts have identified sources, and energy consumption. energy consumption in Germany
particular potential in electrochemical Without forgoing things, it will over the last 20 years, one
storage devices in the form of not be possible in the long term unfortunately has to wonder
batteries. These are able to store to achieve any political targets whether personal motivation or
electricity temporarily and make relating to the reduction attitudes toward doing without are
it available to the grid quickly and of energy consumption. changing at all. This means that
very efficiently when needed. Private political energy-saving targets –
households using solar energy might Why do some pay attention irrespective of where they are –
soon be able to use such battery to resource-efficient behavior must convince people to reduce
systems themselves. This would and others do not? consumption through personal
allow self-generated electricity to There has barely been any conviction rather than only
be used directly in one’s own home empirical research on this subject focusing on the question of which
more often than is currently the yet. One thing we know is that it are the most efficient technologies.
Creating Chemistry | 13Cover story: The graphic
Nightclubs
Energy When miniature dynamos are fitted to nightclub dance floors,
the energy generated by dance movement can be converted
to power the club’s lighting. Each reveler can generate up
harvesting to 20 watts per hour in this way.
Energy harvesting taps ambient energy Roads
by generating electricity from movement, Sensors allow roads to act as mini power plants. When fitted
into the surfacing, they convert vibrations from cars into
pressure and air streams. Developers from electricity for road signals and street lighting. The technology
all around the world are working on is known as piezoelectricity.
innovative pilot projects: In Israel, for
instance, streets are producing electricity,
while in the french city Toulouse as well as Sidewalks and subway steps
in Tokyo sidewalks are harvesting energy and Energy plates featuring piezoelectric (see above) fibers
in London subway stairways are generating in sidewalks and steps convert the pressure from pedestrians’
power. The yield from each individual initiative footsteps and movement into power.
may indeed be small, but the overall potential
of the technology is anything but – American
market research firms estimate the global
market will be worth $4.4 billion (€3.4 billion)
by 2021, and even more in the years beyond.
Clothing
Energy harvesting means cell phones can be powered via a
T-shirt – special films placed under the fabric transform sound
waves into electricity. The louder the ambient noise gets, the
faster the battery recharges.
Shoes
Scientists have developed a micro-generator made up
of metal droplets, which convert energy from walking and
jogging into electricity. When the foot touches the ground,
the pressure moves the droplets, generating electricity that
can be used for mobile devices.
Bags and backpacks
With the help of a dynamo-like energy converter attached
to a bag or backpack, every step taken by the wearer is
This intersection in Tokyo’s Ginza
district illustrates numerous transformed into electricity. One minute of walking is enough
possibilities for energy harvesting. to power a smartphone for the same amount of time.
14 | Creating ChemistryElectric airplanes Exhaust pipes
With the push of a button, the propeller transforms into an The waste heat produced by cars is also suitable for energy
electric generator for the on-board battery either during the harvesting. Electric generators can produce up to 1 kilowatt
plane’s descent or a sharp ascent. This would enable the hour of power in this way – almost enough to replace the
plane to fly for the entire day. alternator completely, and cut fuel requirements by 5%.
Shock absorbers
The vibrations from shock absorbers on buses or trucks can
be harvested by power generators. Up to 400 watts per hour
can be produced in this way.
Brakes
In hybrid vehicles, the brakes are connected to a power
generator. Simply bringing the vehicle to a halt at traffic
lights is enough to power the car electrically for several
hundred meters.
Cars and buses
Tires The air streams generated by vehicles can be captured by
Special generators are able to produce electricity using small wind turbines and converted into electricity to power
the rotations of tires; this powers the sensors that measure illuminated information panels or weather stations on the side
tire pressure. of the road.
Creating Chemistry | 15Cover story: The expert
The diplomat
for sustainability
Situated in the desert of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Masdar City
aspires to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. As it takes shape, Dr. Nawal
Al-Hosany, Director of Sustainability at Masdar, explains this ambitious energy-saving
project, and how it could serve as a role model all over the globe.
Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany Creating Chemistry: Masdar City Is construction inside Masdar
is growing fast. Your goal is to City progressing well?
As the Director of Sustainability become a nearly zero-emissions Yes, it is. The first completed
at Masdar, Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany city over the coming decades. neighborhood comprises the Masdar
oversees the company’s corporate Can you give us a short update Institute and retail outlets including a
sustainability programs. One of the on how successful your efforts bank, a grocery store and restaurants.
company’s projects, Masdar City, have been so far? The City also has a number of
is a new development being built Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany: Masdar City, ongoing pilot projects. Some of the
in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates an integrated unit of Masdar, is being projects, for instance, encourage
(UAE). Al-Hosany leads a team built as the world’s most sustainable sustainable transportation and test
responsible for developing urban development. Several the efficiency of electric vehicles,
sustainability standards and measures are being taken to ensure including the driverless electrical
policies in the area, which is that it remains a low-carbon, personal rapid transport system.
intended to provide housing and low-waste city that can serve as a
business opportunities for 40,000 commercially viable role model for Can you tell us more about
residents and 50,000 commuters, cities across the world. Masdar takes the energy requirements of
and generate minimal waste and a multifaceted approach to the entire Masdar City?
CO2 emissions. Al-Hosany grew value chain of renewable energy and The entire demand of Masdar City
up in the UAE, where she also sustainability. Besides implementing is met by power generated through
completed her engineering degree. energy efficiency measures, such as the 10-megawatt photovoltaic solar
She obtained her doctorate from the use of recycled concrete in the power plant – the Middle East’s
the University of Newcastle upon construction of Masdar City, we are largest grid-connected solar power
Tyne, United Kingdom, and developing smart grids on several plant – and the rooftop photovoltaic
attended Harvard Business School levels in partnership with global panels inside the city. Any excess
in Cambridge, Massachusetts. cleantech leaders. power is fed back into the Abu Dhabi
Before her role at Masdar, she was national grid. Masdar, the company
the deputy director for planning at Do such systems offer an that initiated the Masdar City project,
the Abu Dhabi Police Force – the opportunity for energy and has also developed other large-scale
first women to hold this position – cost savings? commercial renewable energy
and in 2008, received the Emirates They do in an enormous way, projects, both domestically
Business Woman Award. Al-Hosany through an integrated grid that and internationally. In Abu Dhabi,
tackles challenges in her private life tracks and influences energy the company is developing the
as readily as she does in her work: consumption all the way from the 100-megawatt Shams One plant,
Along with a friend, she was the utility down to the consumer level. one of the world’s largest
first woman from the UAE to climb Smart appliances, meters, sensors, concentrated solar power (CSP)
Mount Kilimanjaro. dashboards, building management plants, which is set for completion
systems and distribution management by the end of 2012. When in
systems are all part of the integrated operation, the plant will help save
network. For example, Siemens’ approximately 175,000 metric tons of
Middle East headquarters, currently CO2 every year, equivalent to planting
under construction in Masdar City, 1.5 million trees or taking 15,000
will meet the highest architectural cars off city roads. Internationally,
and energy efficiency requirements – Masdar has developed the first
potentially resulting in a 45% commercial-scale 19.9-megawatt
reduction in energy consumption CSP plant in Southern Spain,
compared with the internationally Gemasolar, the world’s first solar
acknowledged ASHRAE (American power plant capable of 24-hour
Society of Heating, Refrigerating electricity generation. Masdar is now
and Air Conditioning Engineers) developing the twin 50-megawatt
standard and a 50% reduction CSP plants Valle 1 and 2 in
in water consumption. partnership with the Spanish >>
16 | Creating ChemistryMasdar City
can serve as
a commercially
viable role
model for
cities across
the world.
Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany,
Director of Sustainability at Masdar City
Creating Chemistry | 17Cover story: The expert
20%
Masdar City’s goal is to use just one-fifth
of energy consumed by a similar sized city.
54%
The reduction in water use in Masdar City
compared to Abu Dhabi.
0
The number of cars with combustion engines
that will be allowed in Masdar City.
2025
The year when Masdar City is due to be
completed and ready to provide space
for its 40,000 inhabitants.
development and technology group how abundant they are. Let us take interest in Masdar City’s progress Above The cityscape of
SENER. Besides solar power Masdar City: We have capitalized has steadily increased over the years. Masdar City is greatly influenced
by traditional Arabic architecture.
projects, Masdar is also developing on the plentiful solar energy And we have already achieved many
Thanks to the refined architecture
one of the world’s largest planned available in Abu Dhabi by building milestones: Construction continues of the city, the buildings provide
offshore wind farms, London Array, a 10-megawatt solar power plant inside Masdar City with the expansion shade for each other. This enables
in a partnership with DONG Energy and rooftop photovoltaic panels. We of the Masdar Institute campus streets and houses to remain cool
without the use of air conditioning.
and E.ON. It is also spearheading also pursue an urban development expected to reach completion by
several renewable energy projects approach with as little wastage and year-end. Extension of the campus Below left The Masdar Institute
in developing countries such as CO2 emissions as possible. The will more than double the university’s of Science and Technology is
Seychelles, Tonga and Afghanistan. cleantech cluster embodies Abu area and include additional focusing on renewable energy
research and sustainable
Dhabi’s commitment to a sustainable laboratories, dormitories and retail
technologies. The number of
Solar energy is only one side future by pioneering the best outlets. Masdar’s first commercial students is expected to grow to
of the story. How about other practices in sustainable urban building is also due for completion 600 over the next five years.
alternative energy concepts planning, design and construction, by the end of 2012 and is expected
in Masdar City? as well as educating residents about to house more than 50 companies.
Masdar does not only develop efficient energy usage. Siemens’ Middle East headquarters
renewable energy projects; it is a is scheduled for completion in 2013. interpretation of one of the region’s
commercially-driven enterprise that How much energy does Masdar Construction will begin soon on the most iconic traditional architectural
operates across the full spectrum of City consume compared to Masdar headquarters building and features, the Al Barjeel. This was
the renewable energy and sustainable other cities? the International Renewable Energy prominent in many Gulf Cooperation
technology industry. As you know, Compared to the 2011 average Agency (IRENA) headquarters. When Council (GCC) homes. Cities that
the most sustainable option depends figures in Abu Dhabi, Masdar City it is fully built by 2025, the city is inspired Masdar City’s master plan
on each country’s resources and has managed to cut water expected to have 40,000 residents include Shibam in Yemen, Aleppo in
consumption by 54%, electricity and welcome 50,000 commuters. Syria and Marrakesh in Morocco, as
consumption by approximately 70% well as traditional districts within Abu
and cooling requirements by 50%. What places around the world Dhabi and other cities in the UAE
Waste is sorted and recycled, and do you consider to be the and Gulf region.
organic waste will be used for most inspiring with regard to
compost. Masdar City also has a sustainability and carbon-neutral Generally speaking, what can
geothermal test site – a pilot project living? Can you tell us how they cities do to drive climate
that involves exploratory drilling deep influence you at Masdar? protection?
underground to test the availability First of all, every country has its own We can all agree that climate change
of sufficiently hot geothermal water environmental context, but we learn is a threat that the global community
to be used in thermal cooling. from many experiences around the shares. Rising temperatures and
world, especially in regions that offer sea levels will have a major impact
Early on, there was a lot of similar climatic conditions. The on our region and it is in our interest
attention focused on Masdar design elements used in Masdar to find solutions. Our country is
City, but this has since died were inspired by traditional Arabic already gaining global visibility as
down. Is construction still architecture. For example, the wind a sustainability champion with an
on schedule? tower inside Masdar Institute’s active role in international climate
First of all, I do not feel that it has campus – which captures wind with negotiations such as Rio+20. Inside
become quieter around Masdar City: its flexible flaps, directs it downwards Masdar City, we continue to improve
Whether locally or abroad, the and uses it for cooling – is a modern energy efficiency standards in our
18 | Creating ChemistryMasdar City – Cleantech cluster on
the Persian Gulf
buildings, invest in sustainable will promote and adopt research, The United Arab Emirates transportation concepts:
public transport and support public development and technological (UAE) has ambitious Cars with combustion
awareness campaigns to inform our innovation. The new headquarters of aims when it comes to engines have to be parked
society about how we can reduce the International Renewable Energy developing technologies at the edge of town. In their
emissions. And yes, there is no doubt Agency will be based in this thriving for renewable energy place, electric vehicles ply
that people can have a higher impact environment, underscoring Masdar’s and climate protection: the city’s streets and there
on saving energy when they have aim to become a global cooperative Located 17 kilometers are a well-developed public
intrinsic motivation. platform in the search for solutions to from the capital Abu Dhabi, transport system and
the pressing issues of energy security, Masdar City will be a shady sidewalks.
How important is it for you climate change and the development showcase for sustainable The city was designed
to exchange information with of human expertise in sustainability. urban development. by the team of legendary
experts from all over the world? The buildings completed British architect Sir Norman
Working in Masdar City – a test bed for Saving energy is a very important so far are already using Foster and also incorporates
research, development and creation goal. How can we successfully 100% renewable energy. traditional Arabic urban
of scalable innovations in renewable rise to this challenge? construction techniques.
energy and clean technologies for In theory, development that is Masdar is the Arabic word The buildings are laid out in
sustainable development – means that sustainable and not damaging to the for “source” or “origin”. The such a way that they provide
information exchange and knowledge planet is achievable. In reality, there pioneering project Masdar shade for the public roads
sharing is part of our daily routine. are challenges at every step, and so City is in fact a large-scale and other buildings. This
On a personal level, I was appointed far, global efforts of moving towards experiment: It embodies the reduces the average
Sherpa (chief negotiator) to the U.N. sustainability in a collective manner, vision of a city that is nearly temperature in Masdar City
Secretary General in the ‘The with a common framework, appear carbon neutral and barely by up to 20C (68F) compared
Sustainable Energy for All’ initiative to have been quite feeble. Around produces any waste. Masdar to outside the city. The
to support the appointed principal, the world, a large part of the City also serves as a think coolness of the lower layers
Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the population still lives without access tank, where new solutions of earth is used for air-
Chief Executive Officer of Masdar. to basic necessities. In the most for climate protection and conditioning in the buildings.
I also serve on the boards of fragile environmental conditions, renewable energy can be Masdar City not only
several regional and international the population typically has limited developed. The project was integrates environmentally
initiatives and organizations: I’m financial means and the least initiated in 2006 by Masdar, friendly technologies, it also
a Co-Chairperson of Women for adequate resources to address a company from the United wants to promote their
Sustainable Growth and I was part these challenges. Integrating these Arab Emirates which takes development. For example,
of the Sustainable Development societies into the economic and a multifaceted approach to it is home to Masdar Institute
Dialogue panel in Rio. I am now development programs can speed research, development and of Science and Technology,
looking forward to our annual flagship up the pace of sustainable commercialization of a university with a focus on
events, the World Future Energy development and contribute to technologies in the renewable renewable energy research.
Summit (WFES) and the Zayed Future improving their quality of life because energy and cleantech sector. The International Renewable
Energy Prize awards ceremony, it builds an entrepreneurial platform Masdar is a subsidiary of Energy Agency (IRENA) is
which will be held during the Abu that has tremendous positive impact the state-owned joint stock also going to set up its
Dhabi Sustainability Week in January and yields long-term benefits for company Mubadala and headquarters in Masdar City.
2013. These are all platforms for the communities engaged. explores new economic and In order to live up to its
knowledge exchange that energy diversification plans pioneering role, Masdar
directly add to my experience Does sustainability also play for Abu Dhabi. has partnered with leading
and understanding of industry’s an important role in your The developers of Masdar names, including BASF.
best practice. private life? City are employing best- The strategic partnership
On a personal level, I’m currently practice benchmarks, between BASF and Masdar
Do you also aim to establish building my own home in a sustainable building materials began in 2009 and has
platforms for knowledge sustainable way which will reduce and energy-efficient resulted in BASF being
exchange in Masdar City itself? its impact on the environment and technologies. As a result, named a “preferred supplier.”
On a wider scale, Masdar City and ultimately lower carbon emissions. the city’s energy consumption As a leading supplier of raw
Masdar Institute of Science and I’m hoping it will serve as a case was 55% lower and water materials, formulations and
Technology are attracting leading study for all Abu Dhabi community consumption was reduced systems for the construction
academics, researchers and members to identify ways in which by 54% compared to the 2011 industry, BASF has provided
businesses eager to situate they can implement sustainability average figures in Abu Dhabi. a range of products for the
themselves in an environment that measures in their own homes. The energy used in the first building phase in Masdar
buildings completed thus City, including the Masdar
far comes entirely from Institute of Science and
renewable sources. It is Technology. Some of the
generated by a 10 megawatt products used in its
solar power plant and construction were grouts
1 megawatt of rooftop and mortars, joint sealants,
photovoltaic panels. Masdar coatings, tile adhesives
I’m hoping my house will serve as a case City is also implementing and concrete additives.
study for all Abu Dhabi community members environmentally friendly
to identify ways in which they can implement
sustainability measures in their own homes.
Dr. Nawal Al-Hosany, Director of Sustainability at Masdar City To find out more, visit:
www.masdar.ae
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