Tech News

The cost of air conditioning units is expected to go up by anywhere between 10 to 20 per cent next year because of regulation changes in keeping with the Montreal Protocol. A new refrigerant for AC units will make them less harmful to the environment, but more expensive. Star Vickery …

Federal Energy and Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson says when a strong earthquake is detected, alerts will be transmitted automatically to British Columbians via cellphones, radio and televisions. When a strong quake is detected, alerts will be transmitted automatically via cellphone, radio, TV. An earthquake early detection system has been …

Canada needs more clean power to meet demand as we electrify everything and aim for net-zero emissions to fight climate change. Many Canadians want to install rooftop solar to help — but while that can save them money, they can’t actually get paid for generating more than they use.  Rooftop …

The wildfires that ripped through Canada’s forests last year produced more carbon emissions than the burning of fossil fuels in all but three countries, according to new research in the journal Nature. Wildfire emissions not included in official tallies as countries strive to meet international targets. The wildfires that ripped …

With solar panels coming down in price, it seems like rooftop solar could be a good opportunity for homeowners to save on electricity bills and cut their carbon emissions. But incentives and policies that encourage or discourage solar vary widely across Canada.  The environmental benefits of solar energy are clear, …

Although cooler fall temperatures are coming to Calgary, which local experts say usually drives down mosquito populations, one researcher says the city isn’t in the clear yet as a relatively new species is likely hitting its peak population now.  Culex pipiens likely hitting its stride right now, says expert. Although …

Of the myriad diseases that threaten wheat, Canada’s largest field crop, there is one that consistently wipes out five to 10 per cent of the country’s crop each year, amounting to millions of dollars in losses. Tan spot not the most dangerous pathogen, but it’s persistent in causing damage. Researchers …

When Ellie Thomson clocks in at work, she doesn’t punch a physical clock, or even check in on an app. Instead, she scans her finger. More employers are turning to biometrics, and while Thomson isn’t worried about the fact that charbar has her fingerprint, some are raising concerns about the …

Climate change has led to weather becoming less predictable, and insects migrating beyond their usual haunts. Forensic scientists will need to adapt to these changes to make accurate statements about when and where a person died.  Forensic investigations rely on intel about the natural world that climate change is disrupting. …

Wool producers in the Maritimes are making wool pellets to help farmers and gardeners boost food production and deal with climate change, while also offering an additional source of revenue for sheep farmers.  Pellets are being produced in Nova Scotia, P.E.I. In a former juice processing plant in Port Williams, …