3 questions that reveal if a green idea will actually work | Patricia Stathatou | TEDxAtlanta
Not all green solutions are created equal. From corn-based biofuels to biodegradable plastics, many eco-friendly alternatives promise to save the planet—but do they really?In this engaging talk, sustainability researcher and Georgia Tech professor Patricia Stathatou shares a simple but powerful 3-question framework that helps cut through the hype and assess the true environmental impact of emerging technologies. Drawing on surprising case studies, like the unintended consequences of ethanol and the hard-won progress of electric vehicles, she reveals how to evaluate products and policies across their full lifecycle, from production to disposal and beyond. Patricia Stathatou is working to redefine how sustainable water and energy systems are designed and assessed.She is an assistant professor in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department at Georgia Tech, specializing in sustainable water and energy systems.Patricia’s research, featured in Forbes and WSB-TV, integrates life cycle and techno-economic assessments with real-world data to drive
sustainability. And, she has contributed to international standards, including marine fuel guidelines for the International Maritime Organization.Patricia earned her doctorate in chemical engineering from the National Technical University of Athens and conducted postdoctoral research at MIT. Through her work, she is accelerating the transition to cleaner technologies and more sustainable environmental solutions.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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- 14:29Between the Lines of Silence | Sadam Noori | TEDxShar e Naw SalonIn this deeply poetic and reflective talk, Sadam Noori explores the unspoken dimensions of Afghan culture; the language of silence, gesture, and quiet dignity that defines daily life across generations. Drawing from personal memories, ancestral proverbs, and cultural philosophy, he reveals how love, hospitality, and identity in Afghanistan are often expressed not through words, but through subtle acts of care, shared tea, and quiet resilience. Through vivid storytelling and cultural reflection, Noori redefines how we see tradition, showing that culture is not always loud or visible; it often lives in the pauses between conversations, in the way we greet a stranger, and in the silence that carries generations of wisdom. This talk is a gentle invitation to listen, not just to voices, but to what lies between them. Sadam Noori is an entrepreneur and educator based in Kabul, Afghanistan. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and studied at the American University of Afghanistan’s PDI department during its active years in the country. Since 2022, he has been leading an online academy that provides virtual education to learners across Afghanistan. In addition to his work in education, Sadam manages several small businesses in Kabul, including a car wash, a carpet cleaning service, and a car rental company. He is deeply passionate about empowering others through learning, confidence-building, and creating new opportunities for personal and professional growth. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 17:28When Art Speaks Louder Than Words | Pavi Shankar | TEDxAJCECan art make us laugh, think, and question at the same time? Pavi Shankar, the creative force behind Sarcasanam and the concept artist of Minnal Murali, shows how satire and digital art can challenge authority, reshape perspectives, and inspire change. His talk reveals how humor fused with sharp visuals becomes a powerful language that speaks louder than words. Pavi Sankar, known as Sarcasanam, is the creative mind behind Kerala’s iconic superhero Minnal Murali. Renowned for blending art, satire, and storytelling, his works fuse humor, politics, and pop culture to spark thought-provoking conversations. Through bold visuals and sharp wit, Pavi transforms everyday realities into powerful artistic reflections that both entertain and inspire. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
