University of Michigan researchers have unveiled a new membrane technology that could nearly eliminate waste brine from seawater desalination. Using porous, ion-selective membranes, the system concentrates salts to the point of crystallization, enabling minerals like lithium and magnesium to be harvested rather than discharged. This process could transform desalination from a waste-heavy operation into a circular economy model, reducing environmental harm to marine ecosystems.

Pilot projects have shown the membranes can also cut desalination’s energy consumption compared to traditional methods. As global water scarcity grows, making desalination more sustainable and economically viable is crucial for securing water supplies in arid regions.

New membrane systems could make desalination both greener and more profitable by recovering valuable minerals. Water tech firms, mineral producers, and energy companies stand to benefit from scalable, low-waste desalination innovations.

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Mike Blake/Reuters