CERN develops state-of-the-art technologies, some of which have considerable potential impact on society in many areas. To make sure these technologies reach this goal, CERN’s Knowledge Transfer, KT, team has identified 18 CERN domains ranging from particle acceleration to robotics that have concrete applications in seven areas including the environment. The team actively engages with companies from start-ups to SMEs and large organisations. CERN also supports innovation through on-site activities and Business Incubation Centres. In addition to the ActiWiz software (see Waste), here are some more current projects addressing environmental issues.

	CERN’s various areas of expertise translate into impact across several areas of society.

Reducing air pollution from maritime traffic using particle accelerators

Accelerator Research and Innovation for European Science and Society, ARIES, a European Commission co-funded project coordinated by CERN, is looking at ways to improve the performance, availability, and sustainability of particle accelerators. Through a competitive process, it has identified promising R&D projects for further support, one of which could contribute significantly to greening maritime transport. Maritime traffic is the backbone of global trade, but it also generates significant air pollution. One ARIES-supported project is testing a system to break down pollutants with an electron-beam accelerator before safely extracting them.

Improved water and pesticide management with fibre optic sensors

The Fibre Optic Sensor System for Irrigation, FOSS4I, collaboration uses particle detection technology from the CMS experiment at CERN to develop a smart water-saving solution for agriculture. FOSS4I’s optimised irrigation system aims to monitor and measure temperature, humidity, concentration of pesticides, fertilisers and enzymes in the soil of cultivated fields, thus contributing to sustainable agriculture.