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The Science of Zero Emissions focuses on transforming the traditional industrial model into one that mimics nature’s closed-loop systems. In nature, nothing is wasted; every output from one process becomes the input for another. The Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) model applies this principle to industries, aiming to eliminate waste entirely by ensuring that all byproducts from production processes are reused or repurposed in another industrial cycle. This innovative approach challenges the conventional linear production system, where waste is considered inevitable. Launched in 1994 by the United Nations University, ZERI advocates a sustainable, integrated system where resources are maximized, pollution is minimized, and waste is transformed into value-added inputs for new production. The goal is to achieve a fully sustainable economy by ensuring that industries function like natural ecosystems, with no pollutants being released into the air, soil, or water. The science behind zero emissions requires rethinking industrial processes, fostering innovation, and developing new technologies. By combining diverse fields such as agriculture, energy, and manufacturing, the Zero Emissions approach creates synergies between industries. This interdisciplinary collaboration opens opportunities for businesses to redesign their production methods, governments to implement progressive environmental policies, and scientists to pioneer breakthroughs in sustainable technology. Through pilot projects in countries such as Japan, Brazil, Namibia, and Sweden, ZERI has demonstrated the feasibility of zero-emission industries. These projects have inspired a growing global movement toward sustainability, encouraging industries, governments, and communities to adopt the zero-emissions model. Ultimately, the science of zero emissions seeks to preserve the environment and promote economic growth, resource efficiency, and societal well-being for future generations. Read More: The Three Research Agendas of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) https://www.sig.today/post/three-zeri-research-agendas-the-vision-of-zero-emissions-research-and-initiatives-zeri The Scientific Research of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) https://www.sig.today/post/the-scientific-research-of-zeri #ZERI #ZERIChina #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

The Scientific Perspective of Zero Emissions From biology to architecture, from the arts and humanities to economics, the scientific research behind Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives is dedicated to realizing various innovative ideas. While improving access to water, food, housing, healthcare, employment, energy, and education, it also actively enhances the environment. As people continue to envision a sustainable future that evolves with nature, ZERI has already established an information foundation. This foundation provides us with an endless source of inspiration, guiding us in the ongoing search for solutions to global challenges while meeting the basic needs of all species. The Twelve Axioms of Economics (1) PURPOSE Merging Economic, Social and Environmental Objectives   A clear purpose for your organization that responds to social, ecological and financial needs in local communities The purpose of your organisation is the DNA that unites – customers, employees, consumers, local communities, suppliers, local government, etc… Awareness of the personal values of stakeholders (employees, consumers, investors, community) and the values they aspire to buy products and services from Merging of personal stakeholder and company values – reflected in the products, services, and brands you provide Making decisions on a day-to-day basis concerning the social, ecological and financial bottom line (Upsizing vs. Downsizing) (2) GROWTH Increasing Output with Less Input   Looking at your system of production and challenging everything from the point of view of adding value to stakeholders. Re-engineering existing production processes so they create minimum waste, but waste is permitted creating new products and services from what you traditionally regard as waste. Using innovative raw materials which are far more effective in relation to environment, waste, society and cost and which can stand the test of dramatic growth in demand. Clustering with other organizations who can use your waste as inputs to make their products and services. Identifying under-utilized or negative assets and optimizing the use of these assets through creating new products or services (Ektropy vs. Entropy) (3) PRODUCTIVITY Increasing Total Productivity, Whilst Increasing Jobs and Eliminating Non-Value Added.   Optimizing profit and R.O.C. and minimizing costs per unit of raw material - your: organization, suppliers, customers, consumers, local environment and community. Growing through 100% utilization of all your resources, and generating value-added turn hidden assets and non-existing cash flow into bottom-line contributions for all. Creating shared services with local companies to local communities. (Productivity of Labor - Capital - Raw Materials) (4) CASHFLOW The Value of the Whole is More than the Sum of the Parts.   Producing/ providing more products and services that provide new cash flow streams vs. producing/ providing one core product or service that generates just one cash flow stream. Providing shared services with other companies to oneself and local communities. Identifying and fully using the pockets of core competencies in your organization. Identifying the pockets of information exhaust in your organization and selling that information to other organizations, customers or consumers who would value that information (Integrated Cash Flow vs. Consolidated Cash Flow) (5) PRICE Allow the Price of the Core Product to Slide to Zero.   Letting the price of your core products and services slide. Retaining your customer and distribution streams through building up depth in your product portfolio. Use existing distribution streams to send new innovative and clustered products and services which are reflecting the quality and the vision of your system of production and consumption. (Value Added vs. Product Margin) (6) QUALITY Offering Higher Quality at Lower Prices   Reducing bureaucracy, waste, and under-utilized assets that are costing consumers money. Fully utilizing your resources (raw materials, people, time, cash, information, ecosystems, tradition, culture) so you are creating optimum value from the point of view of consumers, ecosystem and local communities. Providing extended services and products through partnerships with other organizations. Providing products and services which respond to the basic needs of consumers, and which fit the - personal values and vision of these consumers. Recognizing that consumers do not want toxins, unethical products/services or to be lied to. Practising transparency and participation in relation to building up the ecosystem, increasing jobs, and cutting pollution. Identifying local issues and taking responsibility for t Creating a strong company brand, a corporate purpose allowing consumers to make a difference while buying your products and services (Quality vs. Quantity) (7) COMPETITIVENESS Competing based on Economies of Scope (Economies of Scale vs. Economies of Scope)   (8) PLACE Local Clustered Opportunities   Build on the biodiversity and the five kingdoms of nature to create clusters of products which rely on the local ecosystem and respond to local needs with local solutions with what is available. Locally address local issues, and respond to local dreams creating initiatives which address multiple agendas simultaneously. Certify your products based on local tradition and culture (9) INNOVATION Faster and More with Less Risk   Benchmark innovations with the best performance of nature. Build on the biodiversity and the five kingdoms of nature to create clusters of products which rely on the local ecosystem. Impose impossible targets ... like produce at ambient temperature and pressure. 50% of profits come from new product portfolios where systems of production match systems of consumption. Secure clusters with increased cash flow so that risks are lowered  (Innovation vs. Compliance) (10) DIVERSIFICATION Diversify Within Your Ecosystem   Converting waste streams into new value-added, converting hidden assets into cash flow generating activities. While maintaining the core business, secure complementary activities. Imagine products and services from within the system instead of searching for solutions outside. Operate within the web, with options and choices ready for implementation and always prepared to improve along a path of co-evolution. (Diversification vs. Substitution)   (11) MANAGEMENT From DNA to the Immune System   A shared vision, a strong purpose that binds the web together into a network. Everyone in the company is an integrated strategic thinker, challenging "do as usual" and prepared to provide feedback on how to improve and sharing knowledge a sense of responsibility and a desire to go over to action. Operating without a central command and decision-making trusting everyone in the network. Agree to target total productivity, and embark on a never-ending quest for ever more value with what one has (Central Nervous vs. Immune System) (12) THERMO-DYNAMICS Ambient Temperature and Pressure   Integrate and separate at ambient temperature and pressure. Operate an open system. Rely on creativity and innovation to provide leadership (Entropy vs. Ektropy) #ZERI #ZERIChina #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

Written by Professor Gunter Pauli in 2004, the 10th Anniversary of the establishment of ZERI. We owe our progress to the millions who, over the past few decades, have engaged with, explored, and challenged the concept of zero emissions. We are also grateful to the ecosystems of the five continents, which, despite the odds, have shown a desire for life and survival. Today, Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) stands at the point of reflecting on the experiences gained over the past years and looking ahead to the next decade. The future of global development is not solely the privilege of those who initiated the concept, but rather the responsibility of everyone eager to participate in this work. What we have achieved at ZERI today began with a series of ideas over twenty years ago: 1. We aim to use all that we have to meet the basic needs of all living beings on Earth. 2. We seek to find creative solutions to the urgent problems of our time. 3. Most importantly, we strive to turn waste into nutrients and energy for others to use. "The only entity that creates waste is humanity; in nature, waste does not exist." This principle became the starting point and guiding force for ZERI. Naturally, the research and initiatives that stem from this vision are grounded in nature’s design principles. We have always taken time to observe nature, whether in extreme environments such as the Namib Desert or the Amazon rainforest, striving to understand how natural systems operate. We do not shy away from failure, recognizing that the evaluation of a failed project can help us rethink, clarify, and rise stronger. Through persistent efforts, the guiding principles of zero waste and zero emissions, inspired by the "Five Design Principles of Nature," have developed rapidly. Therefore, we believe that the next decade of actions and reflections will begin with a deeper understanding of how natural systems function, though no one can predict the exact progress. With the understanding that "learning never ends," we expect to refine more principles and better ideas over the next decade. Debating Economics Alongside Science and Theory Over the past decade, we’ve had the opportunity to understand a reality felt by many: that the economy and management systems, driven by core business and cash flow analyses, do not meet the basic needs of everyone. While this system might be the best we can imagine so far, it fails to address poverty, protect the environment, and only reacts during moments of extreme crisis. While we have signed over 100 international environmental treaties, and the Kyoto Protocol is in effect, while environmental reporting and corporate responsibility have become common language in multinational companies, the reality remains harsh: waste continues to pile up, and the environments we depend on are still being destroyed. Core business, core competencies, outsourcing, globalization, and supply chain management must evolve, just like everything else. We advocate for a market system that meets people's needs and produces what is truly required. At the 2004 ZERI World Congress, we compiled twelve economic and management principles based on case studies, marking our first attempt to articulate a new framework. We must expand our understanding of economics to use what we have—particularly our culture, traditions, and ecosystems—to meet the basic needs of all. We must test and refine these ideas in a continuous quest to build an economic system led by proactive, creative, and innovative leaders. This will require the involvement of many creative thinkers, ideally those who have never studied economics before. A Grand and Unstoppable Vision for the Next Decade The vision for the next ten years is grand and unstoppable, yet it has its limitations. If this vision were dependent on just one person’s effort, it would seem too ambitious and destined to fail. However, if a team—well-organized and appropriately passionate—works together, they can apply the "law of least effort": the right time, the right place, and the right people will work together to achieve the goal. The "Ten-Year Vision" represents ZERI’s commitment to research, dialogue, education, and action. We are grateful for the support and blessings of those who care about our work. From 1994, when ZERI was just an infant, we are now moving towards maturity, continuing with concrete actions, and this is only the beginning. Read More: The Three Research Agendas of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) https://www.sig.today/post/three-zeri-research-agendas-the-vision-of-zero-emissions-research-and-initiatives-zeri Educational Initiatives of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) https://www.sig.today/post/educational-initiatives-of-zero-emissions-research-and-initiatives-zeri From Innovative Concepts to Implementations -- The Vision of ZERI https://www.sig.today/post/from-concept-to-implementation-the-vision-of-zeri #ZERI   #ZERIChina   #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

ZERI is a global organisation that brings together creative thinkers worldwide, aiming to address the pressing and emerging challenges our planet faces. The success and growth of ZERI STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) from the unwavering determination of its members. What others view as unattainable goals, ZERI members see as milestones to be reached. Guided by creativity and scientific rigour, every member of ZERI shares a common vision: to seek sustainable solutions to global issues, impacting diverse regions, including remote areas and eco-conscious businesses worldwide. ZERI's team consists of professionals and experts from various industries, all contributing their creativity towards sustainable development. The collective vision is to utilise local resources to meet everyone's basic needs. ZERI promotes innovative business models that generate multiple benefits, such as job creation and increased productivity. By identifying and refining opportunities, we transform them into actionable solutions. ZERI has a strong ethical commitment to open-source solutions, believing that no initiative aimed at building a better world should be restricted by proprietary agreements. Over the past 20 years, ZERI has connected five continents through nearly 200 projects that demonstrate the potential of zero emissions. We provide governments with insights into industrial development, guide companies toward market niches, and offer communities strategies for accumulating social capital. The ZERI Foundation serves as an economic barometer, identifying high-growth industries for the next decade. When crises arise, while many businesses struggle, others thrive—who will be the future job creators? What innovations will reshape business models? What new business paradigms will emerge to change the game? World's Leading Innovation Think Tank The University of Pennsylvania conducted a global think tank ranking, and the Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) was ranked among the top 10 "most innovative policy ideas/proposals" think tanks in the world, securing the 7th position. https://repository.upenn.edu/exhibits/orgunit/think_tanks ZERI extends its gratitude to all those who have challenged and inspired us along the way. We have surpassed all major German policy research institutions and are now recognized as the best research institution in Asia. Our friends at "Development Alternatives," led by Ashok Khosla in India, have also ranked highly. Congratulations to Ashok! The zero-emissions concept, first introduced by ZERI in 1991, is gaining widespread adoption, but most importantly, we are making real progress on the ground through hundreds of concrete initiatives. Perhaps our greatest impact lies in distributing millions of fable stories related to the environment and sustainability to children worldwide, especially in China, in dozens of languages. This is undoubtedly one of the greatest long-term policy initiatives ever undertaken. Read More: The Development Goals of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) https://www.sig.today/post/zero-emissions-research-and-initiatives-development-goals A Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with a Single Step -- The Vision of ZERI https://www.sig.today/post/the-vision-of-zero-emissions-research-and-initiatives-zeri-a-journey-of-a-thousand-miles-begins-w The Scientific Research of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) https://www.sig.today/post/the-scientific-research-of-zeri #ZERI #ZERIChina #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

The Scientific Perspective of Zero Emissions From biology to architecture, from the arts and humanities to economics, the scientific research behind Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives is dedicated to realizing various innovative ideas. While improving access to water, food, housing, healthcare, employment, energy, and education, it also actively enhances the environment. As people continue to envision a sustainable future that evolves with nature, ZERI has already established an information foundation. This foundation provides us with an endless source of inspiration, guiding us in the ongoing search for solutions to global challenges while meeting the basic needs of all species. The Five Kingdoms of Nature The concept of "The Five Kingdoms of Nature" is inspired by Dr. Lynn Margulis' groundbreaking work Five Kingdoms: An Illustrated Guide to the Phyla of Life on Earth . Inspired by Dr. Lynn Margulis’ research, Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) methodology is based on the harmony and interaction between five distinct realms of life in nature. By understanding how each kingdom operates and interacts with others, we can learn from nature how to integrate and separate systems. The term "kingdom" is widely accepted in the scientific community, though some prefer the more gender-neutral term "realm." However, ZERI continues to use "kingdom" as it evokes a sense of imagination, particularly for children. Read more: https://www.sig.today/post/the-five-kingdoms-of-nature The Five Types of Human Intelligence The educational initiatives of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) are based on the concept of "asking questions rather than providing answers." We recognize that all children have an innate desire to experiment and learn. By fostering an environment of inquiry, we aim to develop students' ability to think, design, create, and dream within systems, enabling them to continuously evolve and expand their ideas. This approach embraces the whole person and includes five distinct ways of knowing and expressing: 1. Emotional Intelligence, 2. Academic Knowledge, 3. Art, 4. Ecological Literacy (Systems Thinking), and 5. Practical Implementation Skills. Read more: https://www.sig.today/post/the-five-intelligences-of-human-cognition Five Principles of Biomimicry Design Based on observations of nature and existing Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) projects, we have identified five key principles of biomimicry design. These principles offer a framework for consciously participating in Earth's evolution by emulating nature. They include: The relationship between waste and food among the five kingdoms, The relationship between toxins and nutrients across the kingdoms, The interaction between ecosystems and viruses within the kingdoms, The connection between diversity and resilience in the systems of the five kingdoms, and The processes of combining, integrating, and separating matter under temperature and pressure across the kingdoms. Read more: https://www.sig.today/post/five-biomimicry-design-principles The Twelve Axioms of Economics The comprehensive strategic thinking framework of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) guides us in making daily business decisions, adding value, and creating opportunities to differentiate and develop a cohesive corporate identity. When a company understands "The Five Kingdoms of Nature" and "The Five Principles of Biomimicry Design," as well as the sustainability principles defined by ZERI, it becomes clear that these concepts hold immense creativity, innovative resources, and leadership potential for redefining the competitive business landscape over the coming decades. By rethinking the twelve axioms of economics, the future business world will continue to create value and improve living standards while safeguarding Earth's precious resources and natural environment. Read more: https://www.sig.today/post/the-twelve-axioms-of-economics #ZERI #ZERIChina #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

Establishing a New Model We are committed to building a global ideology that seeks sustainable solutions, grounded in the natural world, with practical solutions as the pathway to achieving sustainability. Sustainable development must recognize and understand the interconnectedness of local and global issues. Everything in the world is universally connected, and every action has a profound impact on other elements. If we fail to recognize the bigger picture, finding the right solution becomes challenging. This requires internal collaboration within organizations, seeking different ways of cooperation to “break the norm,” fostering cross-departmental communication and cooperation. Our solutions continuously evolve as the surrounding environment changes, bringing about unexpected and often delightful transformations. Seeking Sustainable Solutions Sustainable solutions must be based on locally available resources, seeking practical, accessible, and comprehensive answers. ZERI believes that achieving sustainable development requires effective use of local ecosystems, complemented by expertise and unique cultures. While efficiency is important, the needs of marginalized populations are urgent, and expanding business platforms is imperative. These marginalized communities cannot simply wait for poverty alleviation programs, as it is well known that such programs rarely lead to substantial improvement. People in difficult situations cannot wait for banks to lift foreclosure rights or for shareholders to replace management; they need practical, accessible, direct, and sustainable solutions that bring real change. Challenging the Scarcity Mindset ZERI seeks to challenge the dominant mindset rooted in scarcity and poverty. In an open market, it is impossible to solve poverty through narrow technological solutions. Instead, communities, including the public and businesses, need to work in harmony with nature’s design principles, recognizing the wealth within their communities and environments. Communities must experience sustainability projects firsthand to prove that true diversity working together can bring opportunities for improvement, create wealth, and provide livelihoods for everyone in the community. Businesses must respect the fundamental principle of their operating licenses: responding to customer needs. Governments are no exception: they must respond to the needs of taxpayers and those in the community who require assistance. Building a New Leadership Paradigm The current leadership is based on power and control. Going beyond this means focusing on creating the next generation, working with young people who believe in the "impossible dream." ZERI fosters creativity and innovation by believing in and affirming everyone’s potential for creativity and their unique contributions to their communities. True diversity allows everyone to appreciate their uniqueness while celebrating interconnectedness. With scientific knowledge as a foundation, understanding this interconnectedness paves the way for the real development of communities, ecosystems, and the broader living environment. This is an environment where entrepreneurship flourishes, creating jobs and increasing productivity. Its essence lies in expansion, not in the feared contraction. Our Learning Approach While science is a key driver of ZERI, it is through demystifying science and making it accessible to young minds that we have created a broad ZERI educational platform through the use of fables. ZERI believes that living in harmony with nature does not mean abandoning science or becoming disconnected from reality. Through fun stories, we explore the deep workings of nature, paving the way for new scientists who will collaborate with nature rather than remain ignorant or in conflict with it. For ZERI, the true investment lies in creating a generation that can ensure sustainable livelihoods for all living species on Earth now and in the future. #ZERI   #ZERIChina   #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

It is not possible to separate ideas from education, and neither can ideas be separated from action. As the concept of the five intelligences explains: what is the use of all the academic knowledge, all the arts, the emotional intelligence and ecoliteracy if we are not able to undertake the most important step of it all: implementation. Move From Living Laboratories to Megaprojects Since its inception, Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) has always been closely linked with implementation. It must be very selective about where to invest its energy and resources. ZERI operates as a nonprofit organization without a central headquarters, relying on a network to sustain its operations. One of the key challenges for ZERI is transforming ideas into pilot projects and scaling those from living laboratories into large-scale projects. At the same time, we must avoid the expectation that outsiders will take on this work. In fact, ZERI’s role is mostly to act as a facilitator. We always rely first and foremost on local resources and human capital. Undoubtedly, a series of micro-projects might spread risk, but they do not provide the platform needed to advance the pace required to build better societies and communities. Therefore, we must accelerate our progress. Thanks to pioneering leaders like Paolo Lugari in Colombia and Ashok Khosla in India, who independently created tangible realities, we have inspirational and scientific evidence. If we take a long-term view and choose a direction rather than a model, we can attempt to scale from a living laboratory to a large-scale project. We must take the time to establish specialized teams to gradually implement these projects and to motivate those teams to undertake initiatives that surpass what is currently thought possible. If these initiatives make a real impact on the ground, citizens worldwide will easily take the lead as if they have acquired tanks, without waiting for external funding or government support. They will push forward and carry it through to completion. Based on our previous experiences, once the train starts moving, no one wants to be left behind. Therefore, the key to success lies in laying the tracks and ensuring the engine’s momentum. Large projects like Gaviotas 2 may succeed or fail, but based on the reference to Paolo Lugari’s original Gaviotas, we know things can change from now on. Ten years ago, Gaviotas seemed like a utopia, but today it has become a reality. And it is this reality that allows us to envision a new utopia. Product Cascading The concept of Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) began with the desire to transform production systems. Based on the real opportunities provided by natural systems, it is now time to devote equal effort to the design of consumption systems. This is why the design and implementation of large-scale projects must be accompanied by innovative marketing efforts aimed at bringing these systems into homes. In this context, the concept of the product cascade will be strengthened. A series of partnerships will be established between marketing strategy departments and distribution companies to sell products through integrated systems. For example, if organic coffee is grown, herbal plants should be used to control pests (herbal tea); if soil erosion is to be avoided, soil-stabilizing shrubs should be planted (herbal tea); if banana trees are needed to provide shade (dehydrated snacks), we will also have coffee waste, which serves as a substrate for tropical mushrooms (dehydrated mushrooms). Now, we can sell to consumers: (1) organic coffee, (2) herbal tea, (3) dehydrated bananas, and (4) tropical mushrooms. These are all products of the ecosystem. When production becomes part of the system, consumption must also become part of the system. Innovative Financing The design and implementation of large-scale projects without prior experience can only succeed if supported by a solid financial strategy. This does not mean that the project must be fully funded or that cash needs to be in the account before the project starts. It simply means that people must know how to generate the cash flow necessary to operate and expand the business. We cannot rely on loans, microcredit, soft loans, donations, technical assistance, or government guarantees alone; experience has shown that these methods, or even a simple combination of them, are insufficient to bridge the wide gap between rich and poor. We need and welcome the generous contributions of charitable foundations and government grants, but these must be supplemented or even replaced by smart financial engineering. In the coming decade, ZERI will focus on enriching the concept of "smart purchasing." Companies should be capable of buying products from system-based raw material producers. For example, as previously mentioned, suppliers purchasing coffee from farms producing organic herbal teas are using their purchasing power for "smart buying." These companies engaging in smart purchasing not only respect the natural environment but also follow a business model that co-evolves with nature. They honour indigenous knowledge and cultural traditions, and they build on these foundations to help them thrive. ZERI plans to fully utilize new financing systems and combine them with innovative labelling systems to stimulate creativity and address the needs of all species. #ZERI   #ZERIChina   #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

The Scientific Perspective of Zero Emissions From biology to architecture, from the arts and humanities to economics, the scientific research behind Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives is dedicated to realizing various innovative ideas. While improving access to water, food, housing, healthcare, employment, energy, and education, it also actively enhances the environment. As people continue to envision a sustainable future that evolves with nature, ZERI has already established an information foundation. This foundation provides us with an endless source of inspiration, guiding us in the ongoing search for solutions to global challenges while meeting the basic needs of all species. The Five Kingdoms of Nature Algae Scientists often describe protozoa as a blend of slime molds and algae. Although we've simplified this, referring to these organisms as algae, we know this is not entirely scientifically accurate. Algae were among the first organisms with a nucleus. Known as phytoplankton, algae encompass various species that produce energy through photosynthesis, including both eukaryotic and prokaryotic forms. Some algae are related to higher plants, while others evolved independently to harness photosynthesis, seemingly acquiring this ability from cyanobacteria. Algae lack true roots, stems, leaves, or other structures found in higher plants. What sets them apart from bacteria and protozoa is their energy production method, known as photoautotrophy. Fungi Fungi include molds and mushrooms, showcasing immense biodiversity, with most species still unknown. For approximately 95% of fungi, we don't even know how to differentiate male from female. Fungi species vary greatly in ecology, life cycle, and morphology—from single-celled aquatic chytrids to massive mushrooms. The true diversity of fungi is still poorly understood, with estimates suggesting there are between 2.2 million and 3.8 million species, but only 120,000 have been formally described. Recent phylogenetic studies have repeatedly reshaped our understanding of fungal classification, and previously non-fungal organisms (like microsporidia and cryptomycota) have been classified under or closely related to fungi. The relationships within fungi remain unresolved and are a key focus in modern fungal research. Bacteria Bacteria are one of the primary groups of organisms, ancient life forms that appeared roughly 3.7 billion years ago. Their defining characteristic is the lack of a nucleus. Bacteria are omnipresent. Wherever life exists, bacteria are found. They inhabit soil, water, and form symbiotic relationships with other organisms. Bacteria thrive in dense populations, caring for all possible ecosystems. They are present in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat, and can be transported by air currents. Bacteria are highly diverse, and the types studied and named by scientists represent only a small fraction. As researchers put it: "You can find them everywhere, and they are far more adaptable than you might think, surviving in virtually any environment." Plants Plants are relatively recent arrivals to Earth. Despite millions of undiscovered species, their beauty has inspired poetry, and they have mastered the art of collaborating with animals for reproduction. It 's estimated that there are about 450,000 living plant species, with new species continually being discovered. Mitosis and meiosis are the primary methods of plant cell division, though amitotic processes are also important in growth and development. Sexual reproduction and alternation of generations are key features of plants, but asexual reproduction also plays an important role. Photosynthesis is the main source of energy for plants, forming the foundation of most ecosystems on Earth and driving the flow of materials and energy in the biosphere. Animals Animals are multicellular eukaryotic organisms. With few exceptions, most animals consume organic material, breathe oxygen, are capable of movement, and reproduce sexually. Over 1.5 million living animal species have been identified, with insects representing the largest group at around 1 million species. Animals interact in complex ways with other organisms and their environment, forming intricate food webs. The largest group of animals is worms. Humans are more likely descendants of worms than chimpanzees—a discovery that may not be pleasant but reflects recent findings. In fact, according to Dr. Lynn Margulis’ scientific hypothesis, we are descendants of bacteria, or more accurately, symbiotic bacteria. After all, 10% of our body weight is still made up of bacteria. #ZERI #ZERIChina #TheScienceofZeroEmissions

1. How Does Nature Create Order from Chaos? The logic of society is built upon certain physical laws and a narrow scope of action. Business focuses on core competencies, policymakers allocate core competencies to each ministerial department, and scientists narrow their fields of study so much that they seem to only comprehend the myriad species that are irrelevant to life itself. Initially, we believed we had to move forward rather than blindly accept existing physical laws or deepen our understanding of quantum and nuclear physics. Instead, we should ground our understanding of the basic principles of life in three foundational sciences: physics, biology, and chemistry, supported by mathematical reality. The laws of thermodynamics stem from the physical world and are meaningful within the current theoretical framework. However, in the coming years, we should deepen our understanding of the laws of life, integrating them into our optimal understanding of physics, biology, and chemistry. New insights in physics are likely to emerge from nanoscience, particularly regarding the structures of water in intermediate phases. We must strive to better understand how nature thrives amid chaos and what systems can provide a better livelihood for all life on Earth. This understanding could lead to an open system that integrates the three scientific disciplines into a comprehensive framework without conflicting with quantum physics or Newtonian laws. The presence of two untapped, inexhaustible energy sources—solar energy and interstellar magnetism—enables life on Earth to transform chaos into order. Through unimaginably small chemical reactions, life systems utilize advanced nanotechnology to convert inorganic particles into self-assembling organic structures. All of this happens right before our eyes. While we have made isolated breakthroughs in cognition, we lack a holistic vision and wisdom. “Why don't we spark a debate about natural systems to establish order from chaos?” — Dr. Carl-Göran Hedén, Chair of the Scientific Advisory Committee for Zero Emissions Research and Initiative (1994-1997), Member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. By 2014, we will better understand how nature generates chaos and captures all forms of energy, including those we have yet to observe. Perhaps we face more questions than ever before. However, one thing is certain: unless we are prepared to construct the yet-to-be-built and unimaginable world, we must accept that in a closed system, everything ultimately leads to chaos. But we live in an open system, and thus we have the obligation to build a framework for life that includes human existence. We should endeavour to establish a theoretical and practical framework that indicates that "self-generating systems continuously enrich life by transforming chaos into stable structures." 2. New Axioms for Economics and Management Debates about theory and science must be accompanied by a corresponding debate on economics. Over the past decade, we have come to understand what many have felt for years: an economic and management system driven by core business and cash flow analysis fails to meet everyone's basic needs. While this system may be the best we've imagined so far, it does little to solve poverty, protect the environment, and can only respond during extreme crises. Indeed, we have signed over a hundred international environmental treaties, and the Kyoto Protocol has come into effect. Environmental reports by major multinational corporations and the rise of corporate social responsibility have become popular, but the reality remains grim: endless waste continues to accumulate, and the ecosystems we depend on are still being destroyed. Core business, core competencies, outsourcing, globalization, and supply chain management must evolve, just as everything else does. We argue that we need a market system that meets people’s needs and produces what they truly require. Thus, during the 2004 World Congress, we developed twelve axioms for economics and management based on a series of case studies from the Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives. These axioms represent the first attempt at formulating this new framework. We must broaden our understanding of economics to use what we have—especially our culture, traditions, and ecosystems—to meet everyone's basic needs. We must continually test and refine these ideas, engaging in endless exploration to create an economic system led by leaders who are bold, creative, and innovative. This requires the involvement of many creative thinkers, ideally those who have never studied economics before. 3. Biomimicry in Systems In 1994, the opening address of the Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) World Congress stated, "Nature itself produces no waste." If someone takes the time to observe the wonders of nature, they cannot help but be captivated. Simply watching all that happens in nature will inevitably evoke a deep sense of awe and admiration. "Nature runs on sunlight. Nature uses only the energy it needs. Nature adapts to different forms to function. Nature recycles everything. Nature rewards cooperation. Nature relies on diversity. Nature requires local expertise. Nature curbs excesses from within. Nature has developed the power of limits." —Janine Benyus, Biomimicry Expert and keynote speaker at ZERI's 10th anniversary World Congress. However, our goal is not to turn nature into a zoo or park to protect what we already know, but rather to become mature partners in the life-filled networks of ecosystems. Given that humans only recently arrived on Earth, it’s understandable that this new species has yet to learn how to adapt to the ever-changing, self-sustaining system we call Earth. Janine Benyus introduced the world to the concept of biomimicry, accompanied by a profound sense of responsibility: the core business and competencies of biomimicry should not merely serve short-term financial goals or cherry-pick isolated aspects of nature. The third research agenda, as the next topic in a dialogue-based learning process, focuses on "system biomimicry." This includes designing components, processes, and ultimately integrating both into an overall system design. The Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives network is dedicated to understanding species interactions, cascading biochemical processes and reactions, the integration and separation of materials, and the intertwined production and consumption of energy. These are undeniably complex issues, yet little is widely understood about them. This research will inspire us on how to turn waste into resources and transform current engineering technologies, grounded in the laws of physics and economics, into production lines that self-assemble and self-disassemble. This mindset allows us to view nature as a resource and a reserve for ever-increasing efficiency, diversity, and production-consumption systems, with more joy and variety than traditional ways of thinking. The "systemic" approach to biomimicry sees products, forms, and processes as formulated tools, studying the relationships between all parts of ecosystem networks. System biomimicry will undoubtedly bring deeper insights and contribute to the discussion of open systems and the ability to create diversity from simplicity. Such discussions will inevitably force us to reassess and adjust the design principles and economic axioms mentioned earlier. The laws of life complement the laws of physics. Let us approach life's realities from all angles, but I guarantee that we will begin with an open system characterized by self-generation. Wait a minute—how many people know what we're talking about? I believe quite a few may be confused. Thus, these challenging discussions and dialogues should not be confined to a select few; this conversation must be accompanied by significant educational initiatives. We learn the most in the process of teaching, far more than simply through dialogue or referencing others' experiences! #ZERI   #ZERIChina   #TheScienceofZeroEmissions