Green ammonia, green concrete, precision fermentation: WEF lists 10 emerging technological solutions for planetary health

A new report from the World Economic Forum, developed in partnership with Frontiers, highlights ten emerging technology solutions critical to climate action and planetary health. Whether they cover food, water, energy and materials, these technologies are considered essential to combat climate disruption, including droughts, methane leaks and water scarcity. Many of these innovations already exist but are underutilized, with their deployment dependent on investment, infrastructure and responsible governance.

“The urgent realities of climate change are clear, but what is less visible are the technologies already available and how they can be used in new ways to provide solutions,” said Jeremy Jurgens, managing director of the World Economic Forum. “This research provides global leaders with the foresight they need to act at the speed and scale needed.”

The ten solutions presented are:

1. Precision fermentation for animal-free proteins

It offers proteins without animal sources that could transform foods, materials and medicines while reducing the need for feed crops, saving water and energy and reducing methane emissions from livestock.

2. Production of green ammonia for cleaner fertilizer

It introduces cleaner methods for making fertilizer, replacing traditional energy-intensive processes. This change helps reduce emissions and pollution, supporting sustainable agriculture and clean transportation fuels.

3. Automated recovery of food waste

It uses advanced sorting systems to identify and separate food waste, even when it is spoiled or mixed with packaging, allowing its conversion into compost, animal feed or new products.

4. Methane capture and use

This technology detects and traps methane leaks from farms, landfills and industries before they enter the atmosphere, providing a rapid way to slow global warming.

5. Green concrete

Made with recycled materials and capable of retaining carbon, green concrete promises cleaner construction while preserving vital resources.

6. Next-generation bidirectional charging

These systems allow electricity to flow both into and out of batteries, improving grid flexibility and stability for electric vehicles, homes and other storage sources.

7. Punctual and specific observation of the Earth

Timely and specific observation of the Earth through new satellites and sensors provides real-time data on floods, droughts and deforestation, enabling governments, businesses and communities to act quickly before crises worsen.

8. Modular geothermal energy

These smaller, factory-built systems can provide consistent renewable energy almost anywhere, adding clean, reliable energy to the global mix.

9. Regenerative desalination

These technologies produce clean drinking water using significantly less energy than conventional methods, providing sustainable water solutions for arid regions around the world.

10. Convergence of soil health technologies

This combines sensors, microbes and artificial intelligence to restore degraded soils. This approach helps soils store more carbon, increase food production and effectively support ecosystems.

Each solution was chosen for its novelty, depth and potential to generate significant benefits for society and the environment. Selected technologies were evaluated using expert nominations, AI trend analysis, peer reviews, and adoption requirements review. The report highlights that success depends on open science, cross-sector collaboration and strong policy frameworks.

“Open science and cross-sector partnerships are essential if we are to turn innovation into impact,” said Frederick Fenter, editor-in-chief of Frontiers. “This report shows that while no single technology is a silver bullet, together they can help us turn the curve towards a healthier planet and a more sustainable future for all. »

These innovations can accelerate emissions reductions, help societies adapt to climate impacts and repair environmental damage. Technologies such as modular geothermal power and bi-directional charging are expected to provide reliable, renewable energy, while next-generation building materials and Earth observation technology help communities respond to environmental threats. Pilot projects, such as Middle East desalination and geothermal energy systems, show how local investment and political empowerment drives adoption.