Australia Transforms How Hydrogen is Stored and Transported

We hope you had a great weekend. Australia is leading the way in clean energy with a revolutionary hydrogen powder that could make renewable power more accessible worldwide.

In Nottingham, a simple message hidden in a toilet paper roll has bridged generations, bringing joy to a family and their home’s former resident.

Meanwhile, archaeologists in Poland have uncovered ancient megalithic tombs, offering new insights into the mysterious builders of the “Polish Pyramids.”

—Stephanie S

Australia is set to revolutionize clean energy with a new hydrogen powder made from sodium borohydride. Developed by Curtin University and Velox Energy Materials, this innovation enables the safe and cost-effective storage and transportation of hydrogen in powder form.

Unlike traditional hydrogen storage, the powder is stable and doesn’t require extreme cooling or compression. It can be shipped in large quantities using standard container ships, making global export more practical.

The process is energy efficient and supports a circular economy by recycling the powder after use. With government funding, Australia aims to become a world leader in renewable hydrogen exports.

This breakthrough could make clean hydrogen energy more accessible and affordable worldwide, helping countries meet their decarbonization goals.

Archaeologists in Poland have discovered two ancient megalithic tombs linked to the Funnel Breakers, a Stone Age culture known for building “Polish Pyramids.” These newly found tombs, dating to around 3500 BCE, feature long earthen mounds and east-facing entrances.

Though no human remains were found, researchers hope to uncover artifacts typical of the culture, such as stone axes or ceramics.

The find sheds new light on prehistoric burial practices and Poland’s rich archaeological heritage.

For the first time in 80 years, young aspen saplings are thriving in Yellowstone’s northern reaches. Scientists credit this comeback to the return of gray wolves, which helped control elk populations.

With fewer elk grazing on new shoots, aspens have a chance to grow tall and strong again. This change benefits not just the trees, but also birds and beavers that depend on them.

It’s a powerful example of how restoring one species can revive an entire ecosystem.

While renovating their new home, a couple in Nottingham discovered a 35-year-old message written on a toilet paper roll by a seven-year-old girl named Emma. The note, hidden in the attic, wished future residents happiness and friendship.

Curious, the new homeowner posted about the find online and quickly connected with Emma, now 43, who still lives nearby. Though she doesn’t remember writing it, Emma fondly recalls her childhood in the house.

The new owners plan to leave the message for future residents, continuing the chain of kindness and connection across generations.

One hundred years ago today, the Rodin Museum opened its doors in Paris, showcasing the legacy of France’s most celebrated sculptor, Auguste Rodin. Located in the elegant Hôtel Biron, the museum showcases iconic works such as The Thinker, The Kiss, and The Burghers of Calais, as well as Rodin’s collection of antiquities. Rodin donated the entirety of his estate to the French state in 1909 to create a space that would educate and inspire future generations of artists.

A century later, the museum remains one of the most visited in Paris, with its tranquil sculpture gardens offering a meditative space amid the city’s bustle. It also houses works by Rodin’s friend Claude Monet and continues to be a symbol of generosity, creativity, and the power of public art.

Other notable August 4 events:

1790: The U.S. Coast Guard was established.

1947: Japan’s Supreme Court was established.

1958: Billboard launched its Hot 100 chart; Ricky Nelson’s Poor Little Fool was the first #1.

1984: Prince’s Purple Rain began a 24-week reign at #1 on the U.S. album chart.

🌊 Russia: After a massive undersea earthquake, the UN’s tsunami warning system alerted millions across East Asia within 10 minutes.

🔭 USA: Saturn will put on a rare celestial show this August, with its rings reaching their best tilt in 15 years and several unique sky events visible to stargazers.

🦆 UK: Volunteers in Thirsk, England, safely escort duck families each night as they waddle from the river to sleep in the town center.

🤝 Illinois: First Lady M.K. Pritzker and formerly incarcerated advocate Willette Benford are teaming up to launch programs that support women leaving prison with housing, job training, and childcare.

🎨 Switzerland: Artists launched the Future of Humanity Experience in Basel as a creative, collaborative alternative to the World Economic Forum, bringing together global artists and visionaries to co-design a better future through art.

— Helen Hunt Jackson

Each day offers breakthroughs and inspiring moments that show us how extraordinary life can be. Here are five reasons why there’s never been a better time to be alive:

🔋 Energy Stored: Breakthroughs in battery storage are making renewable energy reliable even when the sun sets or the wind slows.

🌳 Forests Return: Massive tree-planting initiatives are restoring forests, capturing carbon, and improving biodiversity globally.

⛴️ Green Shipping: Electric ferries and ships are reducing maritime emissions, making sea travel cleaner and quieter.

🚭 Smoking Decline: Public health initiatives have halved tobacco use in several countries, leading to healthier populations.

🍽️ Food Rescue: Food waste initiatives are redistributing surplus meals to those in need, reducing hunger and landfill waste.

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