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https://purenatura.com/native-breeds-the-icelandic-lamb/ | 2024-04-24T09:18:12 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296819089.82/warc/CC-MAIN-20240424080812-20240424110812-00851.warc.gz | 0.96031 | 438 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__203178155 | en | Animal breeds are defined as native or local when their characteristics are tied to the climate, geographical and socio-economic conditions of the land in which they have developed or to which they have adapted over time.
Half of the breeds found in Europe at the beginning of the 20th century are now extinct, and a third of those remaining are at risk of extinction in the next twenty years. The industrialization and dissemination of large-scale forms of intensive farming are the main culprits. Industrial production of meat, milk, and eggs is in fact based on a restricted amount of highly productive breeds, suited to intensive methods of farming.
Local breeds are important because over time they have adapted to different climates, environments, hostile lands, and marginal areas. When sustainably raised, in their areas of origin, they provide high-quality meat and milk for the production of cheese, cured meats and other products: a heritage of gastronomical traditions which is preserved and transmitted throughout the centuries by small local communities.
Sustainability can be measured!
Do the animals from extensive farms consume a larger or smaller amount of natural resources than those from intensive farms ? INDACO2, a spin-off from the University of Siena, has evaluated the environmental sustainability of the farming practices in certain Slow Food Presidia, analyzing the entire life cycle of animals and their production. Through the calculation of a number of environmental indicators (carbon footprint), it was possible to compare the impact of different types of farming on soil, water and the atmosphere. The results have shown that emission from Presidia farms are generally lower than those on conventional intensive and large-scale farms.
In particular, the impact generated by the feed and farming methods used by the farms was very low. *
* (taken from Slow food brochure 2015)
Pure Natura whole food supplements are made from organ meats of the original, pristine Icelandic lamb. That old sheep breed has been living in Iceland for more than 1100 years since the settlement of the vikings on the island. The animals still roam free in the mountains during summer and their meat and the wool is of the highest quality available. | environmental_science |
https://bently.cool/en/an-energy-saving-air-conditioner/ | 2024-04-17T00:13:41 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817112.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20240416222403-20240417012403-00668.warc.gz | 0.940468 | 1,133 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__90032066 | en | Keeping air cool in homes and offices this summer will be expensive–about 5 percent of the energy used in the United States each year goes to running air conditioners. But researchers at the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, CO, have come up with a new air-conditioner design that they say will dramatically increase efficiency and eliminate gases that contribute to global warming.
“The technology we have today is nearly a hundred years old,” says Eric Kozubal, a senior engineer at NREL. Kozubal and colleagues have come up with an air conditioner that combines evaporative cooling with a water-absorbing material to provide cool, dry air while using up to 90 percent less energy. The desiccant-enhanced evaporative, or DEVap, air conditioner is meant to addresses the old complaint, “It’s not the heat; it’s the humidity,” more efficiently.
Evaporative cooling–blowing air across a wet surface to promote evaporation–has long been used in so-called swamp coolers. A method called indirect evaporative cooling improves on this design, dividing air into two streams, which separated by a polymer membrane. Water is passed through one airstream, making it cooler and wetter; the cool air cools the membrane, which in turn cools the air on the other side without adding water.
But air can only hold so much water vapor, so in humid climates the effect is limited. On a 32 ºC day in Houston, Kozubal says, evaporative cooling may only bring the temperature down to about 27 ºC. Ideally, to provide a comfortable building, an air conditioner should cool air to 13 or 16 ºC.
NREL overcomes the humidity problem by adding another step, the use of a material known as a desiccant that absorbs moisture. NREL uses a liquid desiccant, a syrupy solution of lithium chloride or calcium chloride, about 44 percent salt by volume. In this setup, another membrane separates the desiccant from air traveling through a channel. The polymer membrane has pores about 1 micrometer to 3 micrometers in diameter, big enough that water vapor passes through easily while the salty liquid stays put. The membrane is also coated with a Teflon-like substance to repel liquid water. The desiccant pulls moisture from the airstream, leaving dry, warm air. Then it’s back to indirect evaporative cooling: in a second channel, water evaporates to cool a secondary airstream, which in turn cools the first airstream, and out comes cool, dry air.
“I think it’s very promising,” says Anthony Jacobi, codirector of the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “I don’t believe the idea of integrating these technologies is very new. Doing it successfully may be.”
What’s new, Kozubal says, is a design that manages to merge evaporative cooling and desiccant drying into a cost-effective system. “It makes this type of air conditioning viable for commercial and residential processes for cooling,” he says.
The industry is working on a variety of methods to improve the efficiency of air conditioning, Jacobi says, from the use of heat exchangers to improvements in the compression systems of traditional machines. “It’s an area of great importance to the nation, because about a third of our nation’s energy use is in buildings.”
The U.S. uses about 100 quadrillion British Thermal Units each year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Up to 40 percent of that is used in buildings, with about 5 percent going to air conditioning. Kozubal says his system could cut that in half in less-humid areas and by up to 90 percent where humidity is high. “When you talk about a technology that can save 2 to 3 percent of the nation’s entire energy supply, that’s quite a lot,” he says.
The desiccant used in the system is relatively harmless (calcium chloride is used in road salt), though its corrosiveness requires that metal be eliminated from the hardware. What’s particularly attractive is that it replaces the chlorofluorocarbons that are used as the refrigerant in traditional air conditioners. Those CFCs can easily leak, and every kilogram of them provides the same greenhouse gas effect as about 2,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide.
Kozubal says it might take about five years to develop the system to a point where NREL can hand it off to industry for commercialization. The system is designed to replace existing systems without many changes, so it could be phased in as people upgrade their old air conditioners.
The desiccant can be reused simply by heating it up to boil off the water it’s absorbed. In an industrial setting, that might be done using waste heat from another industrial process. In the home, natural gas or solar energy would work. In fact, Kozubal says, the setup could make solar thermal energy systems, which absorb sunlight to heat a home and its water, more cost effective. During hot summer days, solar energy that might otherwise go to waste could therefore actually help keep a building cool. | environmental_science |
https://www.woolvalley.com.au/ | 2022-08-13T10:18:46 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882571911.5/warc/CC-MAIN-20220813081639-20220813111639-00059.warc.gz | 0.845622 | 165 | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-33__0__154317701 | en | The Wool Valley Range
Our Customers Love
Handmade organic bedding and super soft natural wadding
Making the finest bedding requires the finest materials.
Ultra soft wool from local organic sheep.
Super breathable and long lasting.
Free from bleaches and chemicals.
Handmade to order with ultimate care and attention.
Hand crafted for everyday use with the planet in mind. Oh, and 100% compostable!
Finest Luxury Bedding
Our ethos is to source materials from the finest local sheep and suppliers.
Handmade To Order
Each and every item we sell is made by hand with complete care and attention.
Our natural and organic wool is not only super soft but extremely breathable. | environmental_science |
https://www.natureplays.com/product/i-wonder-why-seeds/ | 2023-12-11T08:23:04 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679103810.88/warc/CC-MAIN-20231211080606-20231211110606-00829.warc.gz | 0.925258 | 119 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__91080724 | en | Come and join us for a morning to explore the world of seeds and plants! From the tiniest sesame seeds to the giant Sausage seed, we will examine how they grow and what they grow into. Children will paint and decorate their own terracotta pots, and plant indigenous seeds to take them home and watch them grow!
We will taste delicious edible plants, go on a seed walk, and make our own herbal teas. We grow our environmental knowledge and develop an awareness of nature while we have fun, meet new friends, and play in the forest together! | environmental_science |
http://mituri.cleansite.biz/1057-pacific-northwest-gardening-book.htm | 2021-06-15T06:31:51 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-25/segments/1623487617599.15/warc/CC-MAIN-20210615053457-20210615083457-00098.warc.gz | 0.93391 | 2,341 | CC-MAIN-2021-25 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-25__0__47565694 | en | Pacific northwest month- by- month gardening what to do each month to have a beautiful garden all year ( book) : pfeiffer, christina ann : pacific northwest month- by- month gardening is the definitive guide to successful gardening year- round in the pacific northwest - - states include washington, oregon, british columbia ( canada), and northern california. Pacific northwest garden inspiration & plant combination recipes. 5 simple steps to pretty ( and practical) plant combos you can do this! Our tip sheet pacific northwest gardening book will help you create the garden you' re imagining! The gardening professional. Use egardengo' s rich database of plant pacific northwest gardening book combos as a. October gardening chores for the pacific northwest.
Update for october, : early fall is my pacific northwest gardening book favorite time of the year in the pacific northwest. The gardening year has seemed extra odd, but this fall feels just right. Last pacific northwest gardening book e you ready to smack me over the head for so many random questions? 🙂 my book arrives tomorrow. The book concludes with pacific northwest gardening book a chapter devoted to design, northwest garden style— pacific northwest gardening book an unexpected but pleasant addition to this hardworking guide. The pacific northwest is a hot bed of horticulture and home to many gifted designers and creative home gardeners. North coast gardening - gardening in the pacific northwest. The national wildlife federation has a really effective pacific northwest gardening book educational program that allows people to certify a home, school, church, or business garden as a wildlife habitat garden. Gardening in the pacific pacific northwest gardening book northwest is the perfect winter pick- me- up.
It is released pacific northwest gardening book on december 27, just in time for full- on winter in pacific northwest gardening book the pnw. I highly recommend purchasing the book and pouring over the ideas and full color photos while you dream of. I' ve been anticipating this book for months now and i am thrilled it' s finally out. It' s going to be a game changer for so many gardeners in our region, both beginning and experienced. Gardening in the pacific northwest: pacific northwest gardening book the complete homeowner' s guide includes information on.
Our climate pacific northwest gardening book ( it' s. Seattle picks: gardening in the pacific northwest by seattlenonficlibrarians pacific northwest gardening book - a staff- created list : gardening is one of the most popular hobbies in the puget sound area. Nurturing plants in a climate that supports abundant plant growth can be a rewarding experience for those who grow gardens for beauty or for food. Listed below are suggested books and web sites compiled by a librarian at pacific northwest gardening book the. Urban homesteading in the pacific northwest. Regular guest poster pacific northwest gardening book david walks us through the magic that happens when you combine rabbits and chickens, and how he implemented this synergistic pacific northwest gardening book pairing on his own urban homestead. Gardening in the pacific northwest: the complete homeowner' s guide [ paul bonine, amy campion] on amazon. * free* shipping on qualifying offers. A must- have growing guide for gardeners in the pacific northwest a gardener’ s plant choices and garden style are inextricably linked to the place they call home. In order to grow a flourishing garden. Their book, gardening in the pacific northwest gardening book pacific northwest: the complete homeowner’ s guide, also contains growing guides and tips for each one of these pacific northwest gardening book styles and lots of other great information about growing a pacific northwest garden, so if you like what you see here you’ ll love the rest of the book!
Garden design styles of the pacific northwest. The most concise book on gardening pacific northwest gardening book in the cool short season, northwest climate. Seventeen chapters and over 400 pages pacific northwest gardening book of easy, effective methods pacific northwest gardening book for growing and maintaining a beautiful yard. Ed' s time- proven techniques for cultivating colorful flowerbeds, healthy shrubs, and exquisite lawns make this book an invaluable gardening tool. Container gardening northwest gardening for the pacific northwest gardening book homebrewer: grow and process plants pacific northwest gardening book for making beer, wine, gruit, cider, perry, and more by pacific northwest gardening book co- authors. Perennial flowers are fabulous additions to the garden with their rich pacific northwest gardening book waves pacific northwest gardening book of colorful blooms that can be enjoyed from spring to fall. And gardeners in the pacific northwest region are blessed with a wide variety of herbaceous perennials to pick from.
Gardening in the pacific northwest, by regional gardening experts paul bonine and amy campion, is comprehensive, enthusiastic, and accessible to gardeners of all levels. It features information on site and plant selection, soil preparation and maintenance, and basic design principles. Plant profiles highlight the region’ s best perennials. For many good reasons, there is a renewed pacific northwest gardening book interest in native plants. An excellent new book, gardening with native plants of the pacific northwest [ 3rd edition], is perhaps one of the best recent publications pacific northwest gardening book on this subject." — vancouver sun " leafing through the colourful pages of this extensive and timely guide is an eye- opener onto pacific northwest gardening book the many, varied points of interest and charm that native. A gardening book for newcomers and longtime locals. After the talk, we’ ll be selling and signing copies of pacific northwest gardening book gardening in the pacific northwest. I really wish i pacific northwest gardening book had this book five years ago when i first moved to the area; i would have avoided some mistakes and made better plant choices. Gardening books worth a look.
“ pacific northwest gardening book pacific northwest foraging. If deur’ s book inspires you pacific northwest gardening book to snack on the pacific northwest gardening book world around you, this detailed guide draws you in closer to really look at, and. The sunset western pacific northwest gardening book garden book, and the oregonian. I highly recommend purchasing the book and pouring over the ideas and full color photos while you dream of spring.
The pacific northwest gardening book pacific northwest is teeming with a wide variety of native plants, and this completely revised edition of gardening with native pacific northwest gardening book plants is a comprehensive guide to gardening with the local. Gardening is now the favorite leisure pastime in america. Homeowners pacific northwest gardening book are realizing the health benefits derived pacific northwest gardening book from gardening and the increase in their home' s property value. This book contains easy- to- use advice on the top landscape plant choices. It also recommends.
1- 16 of 200 results for " pacific northwest gardening book" skip to main search results amazon pacific northwest gardening book prime. Eligible for free shipping. Pacific northwest month- by- month gardening: what to do each month to have a beautiful garden all year. By christina pfeiffer and mary robson |. Our emphasis will be on pacific northwest gardening and farming. Our maritime climate in the western foothills and lowlands presents a unique kind pacific northwest gardening book of challenge to home pacific northwest gardening book gardeners and farmers. The pacific ocean, and the puget sound while moderating our weather, works combinations with our surrounding mountains to cause our weather to change quickly. Gardening with native plants of the pacific northwest price cdn$ 46. 46 100 best plants for the coastal pacific northwest gardening book garden: the botanical bones of great gardening. Gardening in the pacific northwest consists of verdant greens and lots of moisture adding up to stunning garden possibilities. The pacific northwest gardening book best gardens in the area include dramatic colors and spectacular plants, and pacific northwest gardening book we have inspiration and practical tips for you.
If you' re unsure about when to tackle northwest garden tasks, turn to our month- by- month calendar, where you' ll find tips. Gardening in the pacific northwest special thanks to the individuals and organizations who have contributed these materials to the library. Books albright, carla. Coastal gardening in pacific northwest gardening book the pacific northwest. Lanham, md: taylor trade pub. S42 a53 allen, christine. Roses for the pacific northwest. Vancouver: steller press. All gardening is possible in most parts of the pacific northwest.
Late plantings of warm- season crops such as corn and beans can be harvested until the first killing frost. Cool- season crops, such as kale, turnips, mustard, broccoli, and cabbage, withstand frost and grow well during cool fall days. Gardening with native plants of the pacific northwest” by arthur r. Kruckeberg and linda chalker- scott ( pacific northwest gardening book $ 39. 95, university of washington press) : if you’ ve dog eared, misplaced, lent out or. Sb gardening under cover by william head ( sasquatch books,, $ 10. H43 a guide to solar greenhouses, cold frames, and cloches specifically for northwest gardeners. Sb gardening with pacific northwest gardening book native plants of the pacific northwest 439. 24 by arthur kruckeberg ( university of washington pacific northwest gardening book press,. A couple of other pnw plant books that i like are gardening with native plants of the pacific northwest ( kruckeberg) and i second the plants of the pacific northwest coast book.
Along with my favorite landscaping for wildlife ( link) which you listed is the living with wildlife in. The pacific northwest abounds with native plants that bring beauty to the home garden while offering food and shelter to pacific northwest gardening book birds, bees, butterflies, and other. The must- have book for west coast gardeners has always been the sunset western garden book, also known as the " green book" in these pacific northwest gardening book parts, but it’ s got some competition now. If i knew someone who was moving to portland or seattle or even eureka, this is the book i’ d buy for them. Because gardening out here really is different. Gardening in the pacific northwest offers something of interest for everyone. I expect my copy will soon become rumpled and stained, marks of a treasured go- to resource.
Vegetable gardening in the pacific northwest is a gem of a book. It is well organized, with a nicely designed layout, and written in an inviting tone. And to the point, its packed pacific northwest gardening book with great explanations and scientific knowledge, specific tips and intelligent ideas. Gardening in the pacific northwest - a book review i have always said pacific northwest gardening book that most of my gardening knowledge has come from books, a fact that pertains to almost every other aspect in my life as well. The first thing i did after moving here was find as many gardening books as i. | environmental_science |
https://www.infozdrave.com/en/ce/ozonizers-and-purifiers/ | 2024-04-16T10:30:46 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817081.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20240416093441-20240416123441-00174.warc.gz | 0.956302 | 450 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__138880554 | en | More and more people are realizing the importance of healthy air, water and food and are interested in various techniques and devices that can improve their quality at home or in the office. Ozonators for air, water and food are one of the most effective and modern solutions in this field.
Ozonators for air, water and food are triple-purpose devices
Air, water and food ozonators are innovative technological devices that help maintain clean, healthy and safe air in a home or workspace. These devices play an important role in combating air pollution and helping to maintain an optimal level of air quality. When the air is enriched with ozone, unpleasant odors are removed and the space is disinfected. Ozonators are especially useful in rooms that have been contaminated after a fire, flood or other type of disaster, or retain moisture and mold.
Ozonators are machines that create ozone (O3) through an electrical discharge system. Ozone is a powerful oxidant and is used to purify not only air, but also water from various pollutants such as bacteria, viruses, molds and allergens. When water is enriched with ozone, it becomes purified, fresh and fresh. Up to 15-20 minutes after its preparation, this water has healing properties and is recommended for gargling, gargling, compresses on wounds, etc. On the recommendation of medical personnel, foot baths or other procedures can be performed.
When fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, utensils, toothbrushes, baby accessories are placed in water, they are disinfected and purified, and the food improves its taste and freshness.
Precautions when working with Ozonator for air, water and food
It is important that the ozonator is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and that precautions are followed. You should not be exposed to high levels of ozone, as direct inhalation of large amounts of ozone can be harmful to health. Air, water and food ozonators are usually used in closed or empty rooms and after disinfection in them, they must be well ventilated to dissipate the ozone and return the oxygen level in the air to normal values. | environmental_science |
http://www.totalresourcesintl.com/uv-safety-month-reminders/ | 2017-12-17T04:03:09 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-51/segments/1512948592972.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20171217035328-20171217061328-00320.warc.gz | 0.947966 | 527 | CC-MAIN-2017-51 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2017-51__0__195822030 | en | - No comments
July is National UV Safety Month, and while it’s easily overlooked it’s definitely not unimportant. Overexposure to the sun can result in problems with your sight and further damage to the eye, a suppressed immune system, premature aging of the skin, and skin cancer.
Studies have shown that there are more new cases of skin cancer diagnosed than there is combined incidence of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers, and that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of their lifetime.
So it’s time to be smart, get prepared, and learn how to prevent having to deal with the harmful effects of UV.
Be sure to stay in the shade. As much as possible, try to stay in the shade between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. Just because it’s cloudy out doesn’t mean UV rays can’t affect your skin, to avoid being in the sun during that timeframe, especially at midday.
Be sure to cover up. If you do have to be exposed to the sun during the hottest hours of the day, cover up with a hat, light but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunglasses.
Be sure to apply sunscreen. Sunburns can increase the risk of skin cancer, so apply sunscreen on all exposed areas of your body, not just your face. Reapply every two hours, and more often if you’re extra active in the sun throughout the day.
Be sure you choose the right sunscreen. According to the U.S. FDA’s regulations for sunscreen labelling, the sunscreen you should use should have an SPF of at least 15 and should protect you against both Ultraviolet A (UV-A) and Ultraviolet B (UV-B) rays. The latter have short wavelengths and reach the outer layer of the skin, while the former’s rays penetrate the middle layer.
Be sure to be on the lookout for new marks or moles on your skin. Try to be observant of new marks and moles that appear after you’ve been exposed to the sun. This may be an indication of skin cancer. Schedule regular check-ups with your physician and be sure to bring up anything that draws your attention.
Make sure your summer fun is as safe as possible. Other than being mindful of exposure to the sun’s rays, be smart, get prepared, and be sure you have a first aid kit on hand in case you run into any accidents. Find one here. | environmental_science |
http://tlcenergysolutions.blogspot.com/2009_06_01_archive.html | 2018-06-21T04:05:08 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-26/segments/1529267864022.18/warc/CC-MAIN-20180621040124-20180621060124-00242.warc.gz | 0.926392 | 439 | CC-MAIN-2018-26 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2018-26__0__228096911 | en | A mine near Libby, Montana was the source of over 70 percent of all vermiculite sold in the U.S. and Canada from 1919 to 1990. There was also a deposit of asbestos at that mine, so the vermiculite from Libby was contaminated with asbestos. Vermiculite from Libby was used in the majority of vermiculite insulation in the U.S. and was often sold under the brand name Zonolite. If you have vermiculite insulation in your home, you should assume this material may be contaminated with asbestos and be aware of steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from exposure to asbestos.
How can I tell if my insulation is made from vermiculite?
Look at these photos and then look your insulation without disturbing it. Vermiculite insulation is a pebble-like, pour-in product and is usually gray-brown or silver-gold in color.
The following photographs show typical vermiculite insulation.
What should I do if I have vermiculite insulation?
YOU SHOULD ASSUME THE VERMICULITE CONTAINS ASBESTOS AND DO NOT DISTURB IT! Any disturbance could potentially release asbestos fibers into the air. If you absolutely have to go in your attic and it contains vermiculite insulation, you should limit the number of trips you make and shorten the length of those trips in order to help limit your potential exposure.
We recommend that you:
- Leave vermiculite insulation undisturbed in your attic or in your walls.
- Do not store boxes or other items in your attic if it contains vermiculite insulation.
- Do not allow children to play in an attic with vermiculite insulation.
- Do not attempt to remove the insulation yourself.
- Hire a professional asbestos contractor if you plan to remodel or conduct renovations that would disturb the vermiculite in your attic or walls to make sure the material is safely handled and/or removed.
For all of your insulation needs call:
"We help you become energy efficient" | environmental_science |
https://www.gppc.com.tw/gppc/english/company-3.asp | 2023-12-06T03:42:07 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100583.13/warc/CC-MAIN-20231206031946-20231206061946-00849.warc.gz | 0.887298 | 120 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__270692990 | en | GPPC and its suppliers and clients work together to provide a better working environment for the employee, to be responsible for the environment protection, to give all the future generations a good living environment.
GPPC set up the principles of conservation, waste reduction, and complying with regulations as the policy.
The commitments for practicing ISO 14001 EMS follow as,
1.To meet all the laws of environmental protection
2.To focus on pollution prevention
3.To practice resources conservation
4.To encourage all the staff involving in the environmental protection
5.To keep improving performance and sustainable business | environmental_science |
https://www.timcarlielle.com/sea-of-whales-film | 2023-02-09T08:34:39 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-06/segments/1674764501555.34/warc/CC-MAIN-20230209081052-20230209111052-00859.warc.gz | 0.945655 | 563 | CC-MAIN-2023-06 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-06__0__229390187 | en | The Sea of Whales
A Short Film on Community-Based Conservation Coming Spring 2020
The creation of the Bahía de Loreto National Marine Park, near Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico, is a success story of concerned citizens working together to have a significant, long-lasting impact on local conservation efforts.
Prior to the formation of the park in 1996, commercial fishing had a devastating impact on the ecosystems in the Sea of Cortez, nestled between mainland Mexico and the Baja Peninsula. The region is home to over 6000 recorded animal species and contains some of the most biodiverse waters on the planet. The Sea of Cortez also holds important winter breeding grounds for several species of whales, including Blue, Fin, Sperm, Humpback, and Bryde’s whales, as well as dolphins, sharks, manta rays, and numerous other species of plant and animal.
Fernando Arcas was originally involved in the formation of the national park and to this day continues to operate a non-profit organization, the Grupo Ecologista Antares, in the town of Loreto. He and other locals recognized early on the threats of large fishing vessels to the delicate ecosystem of the bay, and Fernando was instrumental in organizing the grassroots, citizen-led effort to protect the waters and islands off the coast of Loreto.
Today, Fernando runs sustainable, educational whale-watching tours and a small museum in Loreto, and continues his commitment to the conservation of the beautiful, rugged region's land, sea, and species. From the moment of our chance meeting with Fernando, we knew his story needed to be told. Few people are as passionate, dedicated, experienced, or authentic as Fernando, and this project seeks to tell the story of the formation of the Bahía de Loreto National Marine Park - and the community that made it happen - through his eyes.
The Sea of Whales is a short form (18-20 minute) documentary with interview driven narration shot in and around Loreto, created to showcase the impact individuals can have on wildlife conservation and inspire people around the world to take action in their own communities.
Tim & Lucy are a husband and wife team who first met Fernando while travelling through Loreto in 2015. At the time, Lucy was a graduate student at the University of Calgary working on a conservation project in the Alberta prairies and Tim was a videographer and drone pilot. They quickly realized how important Fernando's story was and, with limited time and equipment, captured the footage and short interviews on this page.
Now, 5 years later, Tim and Lucy will be returning to Loreto armed with better equipment, more time, and a clear goal of getting this important and inspirational message out to the world. | environmental_science |
http://ramblingsfromkansas.blogspot.com/2011/09/another-beautiful-day-in-flint-hills.html | 2018-05-26T09:54:23 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-22/segments/1526794867416.82/warc/CC-MAIN-20180526092847-20180526112847-00254.warc.gz | 0.929022 | 202 | CC-MAIN-2018-22 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2018-22__0__177456453 | en | Saturday, September 10, 2011
Another beautiful day in the Flint HIlls
The sun is brilliant in the blue Kansas sky. Clouds, cumulus clouds with dark underbellies, float on the light breeze this afternoon. It is in the upper 60s degrees and the grasshoppers are jumping everywhere - on the engine of the motorcycle; on the front ferring, on me - the back seater. Hint: never wear a new jacket on the back of the bike in the fall.
Yup, the sunflowers are gorgeous as well as the white yarrow and the lovely dotted gayflower clumped in the pastures. A few butterflies flit here and there. A beautiful yellow and black butterfly hoovered around my Rose of Sharon bush this morning after the rain.
It rained last night, with thunder rumbling in the distant. A beautiful sound for the dry and thirsty land. The air is so fresh and clean this day. Better than any mountain air. | environmental_science |
https://www.rmi-realamerica.com/deutsch/montana_lang_Ger/ | 2022-10-05T09:06:18 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-40/segments/1664030337595.1/warc/CC-MAIN-20221005073953-20221005103953-00080.warc.gz | 0.868983 | 2,097 | CC-MAIN-2022-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-40__0__242850559 | en | |The Real America Region: Montana
From the eastern plains to the western mountains, Montana’s sky sets
a stage of dramatic proportions. Jagged peaks, soothing prairies and open space
form an unforgettable landscape.
Glacier National Park, located in the northwest corner of the state, is the
“Crown of the North American Continent.” To hikers, it is the United
States’ foremost trail park. To wildlife watchers, it provides privileged
views of mountain goats and bighorn sheep, grizzly bears and gray wolves. To
everyone who visits, it is a place of natural beauty and majesty.
Similarly, Yellowstone National Park is a globally unique environment. Geysers
hiss and mudpots boil in an otherwise peaceful kingdom that sustains elk and
buffalo, trumpeter swans, and wild cutthroat and rainbow trout. Between these
two world treasures lie national wildlife refuges, recreation areas, battlefields,
gold camps, ghost towns and state parks that feature Montana’s natural,
historic and recreational attractions.
Montana’s outdoor recreation opportunities are unrivaled. Nearly 6.9
million hectares of national forest, 1.2 million hectares of pristine wilderness,
two national parks, seven national wildlife refuges, hundreds of state parks,
recreation areas and fishing access sites, 16 downhill ski areas and thousands
of miles of cross-country ski and snowmobile trails make Montana the first choice
of people who love the outdoors.
Montana is a refuge for both wildlife and wildlife watchers. The spacious,
unspoiled environment supports species as rare as the grizzly bear and bald
eagle, along with an abundance of elk, deer, moose, mountain goats, bighorn
sheep, waterfowl and songbirds. Look for wildlife in their natural habitat.
Veer off the beaten path between Glacier and Yellowstone National parks and
discover Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area, where some 200,000 snow geese
gather in the spring, or visit the Rocky Mountain Front, a natural haven for
golden eagles. Montana’s national forests, wilderness areas, wildlife
refuges and state parks are windows to the natural world.
Montana is a young state. Only 115 years old, Montana’s history is easily
accessible. Discover it in the gold camps of Virginia City and Bannack State
Park or the mansions and miners’ union halls of Butte.
Walk among the graves or visit the new Indian Memorial at the Little Bighorn
National Battlefield near Billings, and view the paintings of America’s
beloved cowboy artist Charlie Russell in Great Falls and Helena. Follow the
Missouri River, highway of the historic 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Montana’s history is celebrated at rodeos, ethnic festivals and Indian
powwows across the state. It is preserved in major collections at the Museum
of the Plains Indian in Browning, the Russell Museum in Great Falls, the Museum
of the Rockies in Bozeman, the Western Heritage Center in Billings, Montana
Historical Society in Helena, and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center
in Great Falls.
The West is alive in Montana and working hard at action-packed rodeos like
Wolf Point’s Wildhorse Stampede and the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale,
and at Indian powwows and pageants, where traditional dancing, drumming and
dress celebrate ancient rituals.
Many of Montana’s most popular getaways are working ranches, where guests
become part of the crew and learn what it’s like to live off the land.
These ranch vacations offer a variety of activities ranging from horseback riding
and square dancing to fossil hunting, fly fishing, hiking and mountain biking.
In Montana, you can greet the day with buckwheat cakes and bacon on a breakfast
trail ride and end it with roast pheasant and Beaujolais in an elegant dining
room. You can shop specialty galleries, golf 18 holes against a spectacular
mountain backdrop, or test your mettle on an extended trek or bicycle tour.
Whether you prefer a high-rise hotel or a hot springs resort, Montana offers
comfort and quality at affordable prices.
You will find an infectious love for the land and the western lifestyle in
Montana. There aren’t very many Montanans—not even a million—spread
over 37.6 million hectares of mountains and high plains.
Getting to Montana is easy
Airlines serving Montana’s major cities and towns are: Northwest, United,
Delta, Horizon, Big Sky and SkyWest. AMTRAK parallels US Highway 2 across northern
Montana, linking Seattle to Minneapolis.
Rental car agencies are located where you need them and buses travel to every
corner of the state.
Because of its northern location, some newcomers expect Montana’s weather
to be harsh and cool; however, most are pleasantly surprised by its mildness.
The beauty of Montana weather is its low humidity. Whether hot or cold, the
state is dry and comfortable.
Summer in Montana is generally warm and dry with refreshing, cool evenings.
But Montana’s weather is changeable, so visitors should bring a variety
of clothing. In summer, shorts and lightweight slacks, sundresses and cotton
shirts are the rule. A jacket or sweater is a good idea for evening wear.
In spring and fall, Montana is seldom consistently hot or cold, and wardrobes
run from shorts and tee shirts to wool pants and flannel shirts. Winter visitors
are often surprised by weather that is milder than its reputation! While the
winter months are cold and snowy, cold weather is tempered by a dry climate
and lots of sunshine.
Regardless of weather, Montana is a casual, fun-loving state, so bring comfortable
clothing and be prepared to relax and enjoy yourself.
Take Time To Explore
Montana is a big state with a wide variety of natural and one-of-a-kind attractions.
To help you get the most out of your trip, the Montana Tourism Division has
divided the state into six distinctive vacation regions, each large enough to
be a European country. Montana’s own “countries” are named
Glacier, Russell, Custer, Missouri River, Yellowstone and Gold West.
Glacier Country is Montana’s northwest corner, a spectacular mix of wildlife
and wilderness, sparkling lakes and pine forests, resorts and art galleries.
Explore the soaring beauty of Glacier National Park, play championship golf
courses, enjoy the solitude of the back country, and discover rivers that are
perfect for fishing and rafting.
Gold West Country
Goldngest Country is Montana’s historic southwest corner, a beautiful
region of lofty mountains, broad valleys and fabled rivers. Explore restored
gold mining camps, the historic Big Hole Battlefield, backcountry trails, hot
springs resorts, and prized trout streams that draw anglers from throughout
Russell Country is northcentral Montana as the famed western artist Charles
M. Russell loved it, a dramatic expanse of land and sky. Float the Wild and
Scenic Missouri River, follow the trail of Lewis and Clark, observe a great
variety of wildlife in a natural setting and explore the Rocky Mountain Front,
where the Rockies meet the Great Plains.
Yellowstone Country is Montana’s southcentral region, an unforgettable
land of wildlife and majestic peaks, scenic drives and blue ribbon trout streams.
Visit Yellowstone National Park, drive the Beartooth Highway, get a new slant
on life at a dude ranch, or challenge yourself with a trek through the wilderness.
Missouri River Country
Missouri River Country is Montana’s expansive northeast corner, a fascinating
land of high plains and badlands, vast farms and ranches, and the mighty Missouri.
Visit a million-acre wildlife refuge and watch thousands of waterfowl take to
the Big Sky from prairie ponds and lakes. Launch a boat on immense Fort Peck
Lake, one of the nation’s best walleye fisheries.
Custer Country is Montana’s southeast corner, a historic landscape of
Indian reservations and cattle ranches, broad rivers, rolling hills and rugged
canyons. Tour the grassy hilltop that was the site of the Battle of the Little
Bighorn. Fish for trout, walleye and small-mouth bass in some of Montana’s
finest lakes and streams. Enjoy the ancient landscape of Bighorn Canyon National
For comprehensive travel and recreation information, check out Travel Montana’s
Web site at www.visitmt.com. In addition, Travel Montana hosts a number of other
sites containing specific information:
Kids/family-friendly information: www.montanakids.com
Lewis and Clark information: www.lewisandclark.state.mt.us
Montana Winter Site: www.wintermt.com
Group Tours: www.montanagroups.com
Meeting Planners: www.montanameetings.com
A pair of binoculars will come in handy as you discover the pleasures of one
of Montana’s most popular pastimes—wildlife watching. Elk, deer
and antelope roam freely across Montana’s vast countryside. Hundreds of
different bird species, including bald eagles, hawks and great blue herons,
are frequently spotted. Montana is home to bison, mountain goats, bighorn sheep
and the last remaining grizzly bear population in the lower 48 states. Look | environmental_science |
https://www.boxify.co.in/honeycomb-wrapping.html | 2024-04-21T06:01:43 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817729.0/warc/CC-MAIN-20240421040323-20240421070323-00090.warc.gz | 0.85721 | 519 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__64859806 | en | Honeycomb Wrapping Paper 10 Meter Roll Brown (Pack of 2)
Introducing our Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap – the eco-friendly alternative to plastic bubble wrap. Measuring 15 inches by 10 meters, this aesthetically pleasing packaging solution is 100% paper-based, biodegradable, and curbside recyclable. Its imported virgin high-stretchable paper tears easily for convenient use, making it perfect for ecommerce packaging, gift hampers, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and more. Say goodbye to plastic and embrace sustainable packaging with Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap.
Discover the revolution in packaging with our Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap. In a world increasingly aware of environmental concerns, this product offers a sustainable solution without compromising on functionality or aesthetics. Spanning 15 inches by 10 meters, our Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap embodies eco-friendliness, practicality, and visual appeal.
Crafted from 100% paper-based materials, this innovative wrap is a beacon of sustainability. Unlike traditional plastic bubble wrap, it is biodegradable and curbside recyclable, reducing environmental impact while still providing reliable protection for your valuables. Gone are the days of guilt-ridden disposal – with our Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap, you can package with peace of mind.
Beyond its eco-friendly credentials, this wrap boasts superior usability. Made from imported virgin high-stretchable paper, it tears effortlessly, ensuring hassle-free packaging experiences. Whether you're fulfilling ecommerce orders, assembling gift hampers, or safeguarding delicate cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, our Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap streamlines the process, saving you time and effort.
But functionality isn't its only virtue – our wrap enhances the unboxing experience. Its honeycomb structure lends a touch of sophistication to your packages, elevating your brand image and delighting recipients. From the moment they receive your parcel, customers will be greeted with an aesthetically pleasing presentation that reflects your commitment to sustainability and quality.
Moreover, our Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap caters to diverse needs. Whether you're a retailer, a manufacturer, or an individual consumer, its versatility makes it a valuable asset. Say goodbye to single-use plastics and embrace a packaging solution that aligns with your values.
In conclusion, our Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap transcends conventional packaging norms. It embodies sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics, offering a compelling alternative to plastic bubble wrap. Join us in the movement towards eco-friendly packaging practices – choose Honeycomb Paper Bubble Wrap for your packaging needs. | environmental_science |
https://platinumminibins.ca/2019/07/24/nine-benefits-of-recycling-services-in-toronto/ | 2020-09-26T06:07:53 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-40/segments/1600400234232.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20200926040104-20200926070104-00072.warc.gz | 0.963186 | 1,188 | CC-MAIN-2020-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2020-40__0__46785471 | en | The City of Toronto has been focusing on creating a more green community. While their recycling efforts appear to be productive, there is still more work that can be done by local businesses.
There are over nine million tonnes of waste that have been recycled by Canadians, according to the Recycling Council of Ontario. More than three tonnes of that came from Ontario alone. In addition, about 180,000 tonnes of recyclable material passes through Toronto’s Blue Bin program. However, according to Global News, about 30 percent ends up in the garbage.
Here are several ways that recycling can benefit your Toronto organization.
Benefits for Recycling
- Save money. By choosing to recycle more of your used business materials, you can actually save money on disposal costs. The City of Toronto website notes that “there is no fee for recycling and one-a-week organically collection.” The website states that those services are covered by regular collection services. However, if a business produces excess waste, they will need to pay for extra services or hire a collection company. Cutting costs essentially means more revenue for the organization.
- Discounts. Some items can be returned to the store for recycling and earn you a discount on new purchases. In particular, tech gadgets like phones or computers can be exchanged. So, if it is time to buy new ones, consider finding a store that will offer you a discount in exchange for bringing back and recycling your old, used devices and computers. In addition, some retailers have recycling programs for supplies like ink, toner, or batteries, which may also have in-store incentives or discounts to participate in. These types of programs not only keep harmful items out of the landfill, but they can also save you trips to the recycling centre and reward you for it. Another way to benefit from your old technology is to donate it to a charity, which will earn you a tax benefit.
- Grants. Businesses looking to make their operations or buildings more energy efficient and environmentally friendly may be eligible for grant funding to help. Toronto itself is committed to a zero-emissions building framework. So, any organizations looking to build green may be able to find extra support for their projects.
- Reputation. Companies that recycle and show a concern for the environment are more likely to be thought of in a positive light by consumers, suppliers, and other organizations. Environmental issues have been a major topic over the past couple of decades and companies that are committed to making a difference are sure to build a good reputation. In addition, many younger employees want to work for businesses that make a positive impact in the world. Therefore, by cultivating a recycling culture and reputation for your organization, you are more likely to attract top young talent. One way to promote your business’s recycling efforts is by creating a recycling program for your customers. This will not only boost your reputation, but it will also bring customers back to your business.
- Environment. Any recycling efforts that an organization makes has a positive impact on the environment. By reducing the amount of waste in landfills, companies are helping protect valuable land and the animals that rely on it. According to Forbes, experts have stated that unless something changes over the next few years, there will be more plastic in the ocean than there are fish. Businesses that make the extra effort to use recycled materials are having an even bigger impact on protecting the environment. They are also helping build the economy by creating work and jobs in the recycling sector.
- Sustainability. Developing processes and operations that secure the future of the organization is an essential part of creating a sustainable business model. The more that a company can do to be environmentally friendly, the more they are actually developing a business that will not just survive, but thrive in the economy. Because recycling leads to better business practices such as reducing waste and reusing items, it also benefits the company’s bottom line by reducing the money needed for supplies and other products or services.
- Reduce workplace mess. Having a solid recycling procedure in place often leads to less mess in the work environment. Blue bins, organic waste containers, and a bottle recycling bin will mean that more of the waste that is produced by employees will be properly put away rather than left lying around or piled up in a garbage can. This cleaner work environment will also have a positive impact on employee production and morale.
- Sell, sell, sell. One person’s garbage is another man’s treasure the old saying goes. Basically, that means that rather than throw away items that your business no longer wants or needs, you could sell them. Regardless of what you want to toss out, such as computers, furniture, etc., there may be someone willing to pay you for them. Selling your used items could become another revenue stream for your organization.
- Innovation. By adopting a recycling attitude, businesses will start to consider how to reuse products rather than tossing them out. For example, scrap paper could be made into notepads. Through workplace efforts, you can encourage employees to be innovative with their recycling and reusing ideas. Activities like this can also lead to better teamwork and more engaged employees.
With tonnes of waste being created and a large portion of that coming from Toronto, it is not just a good idea for businesses to recycle, it is crucial. By implementing a recycling program in the workplace, an organization can benefit in many ways, including through cost savings, employee engagement, reducing mess and clutter in the workplace, grants and government funding, revenue that comes from selling off used items, tax incentives for donating old items, and building a reputation for being a company that cares.
For more information about the benefits of recycling for your Toronto organization, call Platinum Mini Bins & Disposal at 855-338-8372 or contact us here. | environmental_science |
https://gshock.casio.com/sg/g-news/new-releases/2021/wildlife-promising/ | 2022-08-12T02:50:48 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-33/segments/1659882571538.36/warc/CC-MAIN-20220812014923-20220812044923-00643.warc.gz | 0.961633 | 199 | CC-MAIN-2022-33 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-33__0__174536875 | en | This year's paired models were created under the theme of the Grévy’s zebra, an animal that lives in Kenya and is registered as an endangered wild animal under the Washington Convention. The thin and beautiful stripes of the Grévy’s zebra are incorporated in the watch design. The base models are GA-110 and BA-120, and the band loops and bands sport the WILDLIFE PROMISING logo.
The back covers of the watches are impressed with a "Love The Sea And The Earth" mark. This watch comes in an environment-friendly package that does not use any resin material, contributing to the creation of a more sustainable society. All plastic materials have been eliminated from the box, which is made of recycled paper. In addition, a 100% cotton drawstring bag that can be used as a pouch is also provided. These special collaboration models were created in the spirit of maintaining a better living environment for both wildlife and humans. | environmental_science |
https://enyachronicles.com/things-heiningers-profile/ | 2021-09-25T21:50:33 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-39/segments/1631780057775.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20210925202717-20210925232717-00652.warc.gz | 0.900326 | 2,769 | CC-MAIN-2021-39 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-39__0__83014929 | en | Administrative Zone. A geographical, semi-political subdivision of Earth under the auspices of the United Nations. The African Administrative Zone (AfAZ) includes all land south of the Suez Canal. The North American Administrative Zone (NAmAZ) includes all land north of the Panama Canal. The South American Administrative Zone (SAmAZ) includes all land south of the Panama Canal. The European Administrative Zone (EAZ) includes all land west of longitude 29 degrees East. The Asian Administrative Zone (AAZ) includes all land east of longitude 29 degrees East (including the continent previously known as Australia). The Oceanic Administrative Zone (OAZ) includes all islands regardless of location.
Amazon River. A 6,000-kilometer-long river in the SAmAZ on Earth.
Aragon River. A large river that originates in The Avalons and flows generally west and south through the Xanadu Quadrant. Approximately half way along the river’s path to the Great Enyan Ocean South, the South Fork River intersects it. Below the South Fork River, it branches into two slightly smaller rivers: The Elvira River flowing to the west and the CeeDee River flowing to the south; both the CeeDee River and the Elvira River empty into the Great Enyan Ocean South.
Avalons, The. One of the four major mountain ranges of the Crystal Highlands. The Avalons extend south from the Crystal Nexus almost to the Great Southwestern Ocean. It forms the western boundary of East Farthing Quadrant and the eastern boundary of Xanadu Quadrant.
Badlands, The. An area of the Outback Quadrant bordering on the Great Northeastern Ocean characterized by extremely rough, rocky terrain that contains a large percentage of Enya’s mineral reserves and the only source of Black Enyanite and White Enyanite. It is the location of Beaumont Lovett’s Stone Mountain Steading.
Barrier Reach. A 400-km-wide channel separating the large island of Elba from Land’s End. It is an area of rapid currents, undertows and dangerous marine life.
Brandywine River. A wide, navigable, placid river in Xanadu Quadrant flowing generally westward from its headwaters in The Spaghetti Factory to its termination in Impact Harbor.
Burke’s Bay. A triangular-shaped bay on the western coast of the Northwest Territory at the mouth of the Rodin River North.
CeeDee River. A branch of the Aragon River in the Xanadu Quadrant that flows southward from the Aragon River through Sherwood Forest to the Great Southwestern Ocean; named after Cheyenne Dawn Lovett.
East Farthing Quadrant. The southeastern quadrant of Gaia bordered on the north by the Alabaster Range, on the west by The Avalons and on the east by the Great Enyan Ocean South. It is composed primarily of triple-canopy jungle in the north (Black Death Ground), an old-growth forest in the center (The Elderwood) and a Serengeti-like area in the south (The New Serengeti).
Edinburgh Regional Skyport. One of the four regional, aerial transportation hubs in the European Administrative Zone. It is located in the city of Edinburgh in the now defunct political division once called Scotland.
Elba. A 171,000 square kilometers island south of East Farthing Quadrant separated from Land’s End by the Barrier Reach. It is comprised of thick evergreen forests, undulating plains and numerous spring-fed lakes with a medium-sized mountain range on the north end and is surrounded by The Calamity Sea.
Enya. The third planet orbiting the star Intipa Awachan (originally called HP 56948) in the constellation Draco, approximately 200 light years from Earth. It is an Earth twin discovered by Snyder Enterprises= Exo-planet Survey Team and the site of humankind’s first interstellar colony. Enya is named after Daniel Woodhouse Snyder=s (CEO of Snyder Enterprises) deceased cohab.
Gateway. Headquarters of Enya Colonization Corporation on Earth, it is located on the former site of the Laughlin Air Force Base eight kilometers east of the mostly abandoned city of Del Rio in the area of the NAmAZ once called the State of Texas in the now-extinct political unit previously known as the United States of America.
Gossamer Greens. The four square kilometers park in Starlight centered on the location of Gossamer One’s initial landing on Enya. In the center of Gossamer Greens is Eternal Lake, containing the Eternal Flame. Situated at 120º points around Eternal Lake are the Wall of Memories, the Wall of Honor and the retired shuttle Gossamer One. Originally designed to be 100 square kilometers, the ECC Board of Directors reduced it to its present size.
Great Enyan Ocean. The planet-wide ocean on Enya divided by the equator into the Great Enya Ocean North and the Great Enya Ocean South. Colloquial usage calls the Great Enyan Ocean North to the west of Gaia the Great Northwestern Ocean and the Great Enyan Ocean North to the east of Gaia the Great Northeastern Ocean. The same colloquial terminology applies to the Great Enyan Ocean South, i.e., the Great Southeastern Ocean and the Great Southwestern Ocean.
Great Enyan Ocean North. See Great Enyan Ocean.
Great Enyan Ocean South. See Great Enyan Ocean.
Great Northeastern Ocean. See Great Enyan Ocean.
Great Northwestern Ocean. See Great Enyan Ocean.
Great Southeastern Ocean. See Great Enya Ocean.
Great Southwestern Ocean. See Great Enyan Ocean.
Hill Country. An area of Xanadu Quadrant with gently rolling hills bounded on the north by the Brandywine River, Reflection River on the south, The Avalons on the east and the Great Southwestern Ocean on the west.
Impact Harbor. The 400-kilometers-in-diameter harbor created by an ancient asteroid strike. It is approximately 600 kilometers north of the equator in the Xanadu Quadrant at the mouth of the Brandywine River and the site of Enya’s capital city of Starlight.
Land’s End. A large peninsula in the southeastern corner of East Farthing Quadrant. The Barrier Reach separates it from the island of Elba. It is the location of Friday Lyn Lovett’s steadhold, Land’s End Steading.
Land’s End Steading. The 3,000 hectare steadhold located on the peninsula of Land’s End awarded to Friday Lyn Lovett by the ECC’s Board of Directors.
Looking Glass Lake. Second largest lake on Gaia, it covers approximately 150,000 square kilometers and is located in Xanadu Quadrant, where the seven tributaries of The Spaghetti Factory feed it. The lake’s outflow on its southwestern shore creates the Reflection River.
Lovettschyr Steading. The 6,000 hectares steadhold of Cheyenne Dawn Lovett and Hari Paynter Rockwell (Union Partners). It is located in the Sherwood Forest approximately 4,420 km south of Starlight and includes a portion of the CeeDee River. “Schyr” is the ancient Scottish word for shire.
NAmAZ. See Administrative Zone.
NanoKinematics Laboratories (NKL). A subsidiary of Snyder Enterprises located 65 kilometers east of Wichita, a city some 1,300 kilometers south of the geographical center of the NAmAZ in an area once known as Kansas in the extinct country of the United States of America. A total of 84 persons work at NKL where the biological nanite eventually named Heininger’s Profile was developed. The Supernado of 2239 completely destroyed it.
North American Administrative Zone (NAmAZ). See Administrative Zone.
Northwest Territory Quadrant. Northwest quadrant of Gaia, bounded on the south by The Smokies, on the north and west by the Great Northwestern Ocean and on the east by the Tejas Range. It is an area of deep, fecund loam and numerous rivers and streams. Because the quadrant contains the majority of Enyan farms and ranches, it is often call the “The Breadbasket of Enya.”
Outback Quadrant. The northeast quadrant of Gaia. On the west side, the Tejas Range separates the quadrant from the Northwest Territory Quadrant. On the south side is the Alabaster Range and the Great Northeastern Ocean laps at the north and east coastlines. The quadrant holds Enya’s richest mineral deposits beneath an extremely rugged and often inhospitable topography. It is the only know source of both White Enyanite and Black Enyanite.
Reflection River. The outflow for Looking Glass Lake in Xanadu Quadrant, the river runs southwesterly toward the Great Southwestern Ocean. Approximately three-fourths of the way to the coast it branches into the South Fork River, which, in turn, joins the Aragon River. Reflection River terminates in the Great Southwestern Ocean South.
Rodin River. A large river in Northwest Territory that flows over 3,000 kilometers from the Tejas Range to Burke’s Bay. Approximately 780 kilometers from the coast, it branches into the Rodin River North and the Rodin River South.
Rodin River North. A branch of the Rodin River that flows north and west until it terminates in Burke’s Bay.
Rodin River South. A branch of the Rodin that flows south and west until it terminates in the Great Northwestern Ocean.
Sherwood Forest, The. A 5,205,200 square kilometers forest in the southernmost area of Xanadu Quadrant composed of massive trees having trunks up to three meters in diameter shading the forest floor. Bordered by the Great Southwestern Ocean on the south and west, it extends northward until it segues into the Hill Country in the area of the Aragon River.
Silver Woods, The. A forest in the center of Xanadu Quadrant composed of trees with trunks resembling the European white birch of Earth. It is bordered on the west by the Reflection River and Looking Glass Lake, on the south by the Aragon and the South Fork rivers, on the north by The Spaghetti Factory and on the east by The Avalons.
Skyport. A major nexus for aviation transportation where connecting flights to smaller aviation facilities originate and terminate. Each Administration Zone has several. Each Skyport is a large facility with multiple runways servicing a large number of flights daily.
Smokies, The. One of the four main mountain ranges of the Crystal Highlands, it extends westward from the Crystal Nexus almost to the Great Northwestern Ocean. It forms the southern border of Northwest Territory Quadrant and the northern border of Xanadu Quadrant.
Spaghetti Factory, The. An area in Xanadu Quadrant just south of The Smokies and west of The Avalons containing seven small streams or creeks that makes up the headwaters of Looking Glass Lake and the Brandywine River. Survey Team 23 proposed the following names for them: Vermicelli Creek, Rivo Ziti, Lasagna Run, Linguine Beck, Macaroni Brook, Orzo Burn and Gnocchi Branch.
Starlight. The largest city and the capital of Enya, it was established on 01/01/0001 E.T. where the initial landing on Enya occurred near the junction of the Brandywine River and Impact Harbor in Xanadu Quadrant.
Stone Mountain Steading. The 3,000 hectare steading of Beaumont Winston Lovett located in The Badlands of Outback Quadrant and is named after Beaumont’s father’s (Anderson Winchester Lovett) favorite alcoholic beverage, Stone Mountain whiskey. It is the only known source of White Enyanite and Black Enyanite.
South American Administrative Zone (SAmAZ). See Administrative Zone.
Tejas Range. One of the four major mountain ranges of the Crystal Highlands, it extends northward from the Crystal Nexus to approximately 500 kilometers short of the Great Northeastern Ocean.
Whitewater. A city in the Great Plains of the NAmAZ once located in the extinct political subdivision of Kansas in the defunct United States of America and is the location of Whitewater Regional Skyport.
Whitewater Regional Skyport. One of the regional, aerial transportation hubs in the North American Administrative Zone.
Wichita. A city in NAmAZ where Air Wolf 1776 took the NKL survivors of the Supernado of 2239.
Xanadu Quadrant. The southwestern quadrant of Gaia, bordered on the north by The Smokies, on the east by The Avalons and on the south and west by the Great Southwestern Ocean and the Great Northwestern Ocean, respectively. The quadrant is composed of three major landforms: the Sherwood Forest in the south, the Hill Country in the center and The Silver Woods to the east. | environmental_science |
http://woodshow.hawaiiforest.org/resources/hawaii-forest-journal/ | 2017-03-25T05:41:28 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-13/segments/1490218188824.36/warc/CC-MAIN-20170322212948-00035-ip-10-233-31-227.ec2.internal.warc.gz | 0.799728 | 176 | CC-MAIN-2017-13 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2017-13__0__86386062 | en | The Hawai‘i Forest Institute (HFI) presents the fifth issue of the Hawai‘i Forest Journal (HFJ).
Articles in this Issue
-Interactions Between Fire and Nonnative Species in Hawaiian Forests and Shrublands
By Alison Ainsworth, J. Boone Kauffman, and Creighton M. Litton
-Research Updates in Rangeland and Natural Area Weed Management
By James Leary
-Leucaena Is Not Koa Haole: Koa is not koa haole, a fact evident to all in Hawai‘i. Leucaena is also not koa haole, a fact that is much less clear.
By James L. Brewbaker
-Using Remote Sensing to Assess Forest Structure and Growth at the Tree Level
By Rodolfo Martinez Morales and Travis Idol | environmental_science |
http://www.calendarlink.org/ofi/about.html | 2013-05-19T10:24:02 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368697380733/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516094300-00082-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz | 0.888955 | 286 | CC-MAIN-2013-20 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2013-20__0__130733103 | en | OFI is a nonprofit organization founded by Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas and associates in 1986. Our mission is to support the conservation and the understanding of orangutans and their habitat, tropical rainforest in Southeast Asia, while caring for and rehabilitating ex-captive orangutans for release into the wild. OFI operates Camp Leakey, an orangutan research area within Tanjung Puting National Park. OFI also runs the Orangutan Care Center and Quarantine (OCCQ) facility in the Dayak village of Pasir Panjang near Pangkalan Bun, which is home to 330 displaced orangutans, and helps manages the Lamandau Wildlife Reserve, where rehabilitated wild born ex-captive orangutans are released into the wild. Through its field programs, OFI also provides employment at these facilities for over 200 local Indonesians.
The top five priority issues OFI works on include:
1. Stopping illegal logging, mining and forest conversion
2. Increasing sustainable economic alternatives for communities surrounding critical orangutan habitat
3. Assuring sustained funding for long-term in-situ orangutan research vital for effective conservation efforts
4. Educating the local public to understand orangutan and forest issues
5. Releasing ex-captive orangutans into suitable, protected habitat | environmental_science |
https://pryzmatiqenergy.com/ | 2024-04-13T00:00:15 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296816465.91/warc/CC-MAIN-20240412225756-20240413015756-00423.warc.gz | 0.895198 | 372 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__10389747 | en | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP), Razor cell technology, is the safest battery in the global market. The Life Cycle of Razor Cells are 5,000-8,000 full cycles (100% DoD).
The dimensions of the cells allow for an effective design and packaging to meet customer requirements from 500kWh to 3.5mWh per container.
Battery storage is a scalable technology that enables power system operators, utilities, commercial and residential clients to store energy for later use. A battery energy storage system (BESS) is an electrochemical device that charges (or collects energy) from the grid or a power plant and then discharges that energy at a later time to provide electricity or other grid services when needed.
A Pryzmatiq BESS can enhance a power systems flexibility and enable high levels of renewable energy integration safely while unlocking additional savings or revenue streams through arbitrage, firm capacity, transmission and distribution replacement and deferral, operating reserves, and black-start’s.
The scalability and turnkey simplicity of battery energy storage make these systems economically viable. For utility-scale customers, ESS’s can be utilized to address the demands for reserve capacity, peak shaving, frequency regulation, and voltage control to the grid. A case study example is below.
Utilizing world-renowned technology and mass production capability we are pioneering the BESS market with full production assembly in the US.
We are able to provide our commercial customers with a BESS engineered to the clients specifications.
The same core technology found is our commercial systems are utilized in our turn-key residential BESS.
Versatile low-profile cell
Industry-leading maximum cycle life
Can combine up to 8 units in parallel.
Active Fire Suppression system (to protect from external fires) | environmental_science |
https://www.2fla.com/sea-turtles-need-your-help | 2024-04-17T09:52:38 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817146.37/warc/CC-MAIN-20240417075330-20240417105330-00672.warc.gz | 0.944535 | 2,347 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__32443250 | en | Sea Turtles Need Your Help!
Centuries ago, sea turtles roamed our oceans by the millions. In the last 100 years their numbers been greatly reduced. All seven species of sea turtles are in danger of extinction. Demand for sea turtle meat, eggs, and other by-products, as well as a loss of habitat, commercial fishing, and pollution have contributed to their decline.
The main danger for hatchlings is from artificial lighting. When the babies emerge, they instinctively move in the brightest direction. Normally, this would be the open night sky reflected by the ocean. On a developed beach, artificial lights attract the hatchlings, causing them to crawl in the wrong direction. Other dangers include obstructions on the beach, such as beach chairs, holes, or tire tracks, all of which can block their path to the sea.
If you are visiting, or live near the beach, you can help by keeping outside lights off during turtle season from May through October. Make sure to remove chairs, umbrellas and other gear from the beach each night. Level all sand castles and fill any holes dug during play. Please pick up all trash. Sea turtles mistakenly eat debris, especially plastic, which results in death. Never buy products made from sea turtles or any other endangered species
If you own , rent or use property near the Gulf, please pay special attention to this newsletter. It includes suggestions for low-cost ways to help the sea turtles, which are protected by the Endangered Species Act.
Thank you, Santa Rosa Island Authority
Information for this report was compiled from the Santa Rosa Island Authority and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, "Understanding, Assessing, and Resolving Light-Pollution Problems on Sea Turtle Nesting Beaches."
These Steps Will Make Sea Turtles Safer
Residents can help make the area safer for sea turtles during their nesting and hatching season, which begins May 1 and concludes October 31. Less light means a better chance of survival for the sea turtles, which are protected by the Endangered Species Act.
Here's what you can do: For residential properties
- • Remove unneeded fixtures or lights.
• Use low-pressure sodium vapor lights.
• Place outdoor lights on motion sensors so they don't burn needlessly.
• Attach shields to block beach side lights.
• Place security lights on motion sensors.
• Tint windows; close curtains after dark.
• Use directional fixtures which can be aimed down and away from the beach.
• Move fixtures to block them from beach view.
• Use yellow “bug” lights of 50 watts or less; they're less likely to attract sea turtles.
• Reduce height of fixtures.
• Place lights below dune line or shield with vegetation.
• Do not use spotlights on the beach.
How Beach Lighting Makes Sea Turtles Vulnerable
Lights, even from distant homes, can lead to the deaths of sea turtles and their hatchlings.
Light on the beach disorients the turtles and their hatchlings, luring them away from the water and leaving them vulnerable to other animals, exhaustion, passing automobiles and the morning sun.
Sea turtles nest in the dunes of Santa Rosa Island from May through August; the babies hatch from mid-July to the end of October.
At hatching time, up to 150 hatchlings burst from the nest and dash to the relative safety of the Gulf of Mexico. Moving quickly from the nest to the sea is vital to their survival.
But lights attract -- and endanger -- sea turtles. They are drawn away from the water by street lights, porch and deck lights, even lights visible through windows of buildings hundreds of feet away. This distraction can get them lost; a single light near a nesting beach can misdirect hundreds of turtles and lead to their death.
Lights and weather are major enemies of sea turtles. For example, 13 nests were found on Pensacola Beach last year. Twelve were loggerhead turtle nests and one was a nest for green turtles.
Four nests were lost to Hurricane Earl, which rumbled erratically through the Gulf of Mexico in early July before coming ashore near Panama City.
Hatchlings at all of the remaining nests were disoriented and began crawling toward lights in the area. National Park Service staffers were present to reorient most of the hatchlings, but two of the nests hatched when Park Service personnel were not present. Some of these hatchlings were rescued but most died.
Beach Park Lights Repositioned to Minimize Distraction
Gulf Power crews have redirect the lights at the recreation park at the gate to Fort Pickens to help encourage survival of sea turtles, which are protected by the Endangered Species Act.
Three tall light poles and their lamps have been redirected so they shine toward the north, away from the Gulf of Mexico. This should reduce distractions for sea turtles nesting nearby and encourage the hatchlings to travel directly to the gulf.
This was just one of several trouble spots found during a recent survey of Pensacola Beach's gulf front to determine areas of excessive lighting that can hurt sea turtles. The survey was conducted by a team of representatives from the Santa Rosa Island Authority, Gulf Power, the National Park Service, the Pensacola Beach Residents & Leaseholders Association, and the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce.
The survey showed the extensive impact of lights, with many seen from the beach even though they were in homes not directly on the gulf. Beach areas were illuminated by lights from as far away as the north side of Fort Pickens Road and Ariola Drive.
Island Authority staffers havel contacted leaseholders who had the highest concentration of lights and discuss ways to reduce light shining on the beach.
The Island Authority encourages citizen cooperation. If you see sea turtles on the beach, please call the National Park Service, 850-916-3010.
If you have questions about your lights and their possible impact on sea turtles, please call Island Authority, 850-932-2257. They will be glad to work with you.
Choose Lights That Won't Hurt Sea Turtles, Hatchlings
Low-pressure sodium-vapor (LPS) lighting emits a pure-yellow light that seems to affect nesting turtles less than light from other sources, at least for loggerheads and green turtles, the most common turtles on Santa Rosa Island. LPS lighting has both advantages and disadvantages:
Expense : LPS initially costs substantially more than incandescent or fluorescent lights because it uses more expensive bulbs and ballasts . But operating costs are generally much lower for LPS than for any other commercial source.
Color -- LPS sources are monochromatic and therefore give poor color rendition. But full-spectrum color is seldom needed for safety and security. For example, U.S. Air Force bases near nesting beaches in Florida use LPS lights for most outside security areas.
Disposal -- The lamps within LPS luminaries contain elemental sodium, which can cause fires if disposed of carelessly. However, unlike some other lamps, the contents of LPS lamps are not toxic.
Availability -- LPS luminaries are not as readily available in retail stores as other light sources, but manufacturers offer a wide selection.
When using other conventional lighting systems, adjust the fixtures to keep the light from being visible from the nesting beach. Completely shielding fixtures with a sheet of metal flashing can reduce stray light reaching the beach. Louvered step lighting is one of the best ways to light balconies that are visible from nesting beaches. For parking areas near nesting beaches, low-mounted, louvered bollard fixtures are preferred, but fully hooded floodlights also can direct light accurately and reduce stray light.
Q&A: Answers to Frequent Questions About Sea Turtles
When do hatchling sea turtles emerge from their nests?
In the Southeast, hatchlings emerge in June, July, August, September and October. It is a myth that hatchlings emerge only around the time of a full moon. Hatchlings ready to emerge wait just beneath the sand surface until conditions become cool. This temperature cue prompts them to emerge primarily at night, although some have emerged in late afternoon or early morning.
When they emerge from their nests, how do hatchling sea turtles know where the Gulf is?
They have an inborn tendency to move in the brightest direction. On a beach, the brightest direction is most often the open view of the night sky over, and reflected by, the gulf. Hatchlings also tend to move away from darkly silhouetted objects such as dunes and vegetation.
My neighbors' lights are visible from the beach. Why should I modify the lights on my beachfront property?
Sea turtles benefit from any reduction of artificial lighting on the nesting beach. As lighting is reduced, hatchlings will have a better chance of reaching the sea.
How bright can a light be without affecting sea turtles?
Unfortunately, no simple measure of light intensity can reveal whether a light source is a problem. . . Any light that is visible from the beach is likely to cause problems. Will placing bright lights on platforms offshore guide hatchlings into the water off lighted beaches? Apart from being overly expensive and complicated, lighting the gulf to draw hatchlings offshore probably would create more problems, such as interfering with hatchling dispersal and making the babies more vulnerable to predatory fish. How expensive is a beach-darkening program? The simplest solution -- turning off lights visible from the beach during the nesting season -- costs little or nothing and may actually save electricity costs.
Most of the essential lighting that remains can be easily shielded so that the light performs its intended function without reaching the beach. Proper shields can be made from inexpensive metal flashing and fastened with screws.
Replacing fixtures is more expensive but is necessary only when an owner is concerned about lighting efficiency or aesthetics. Choosing well-designed fixtures and incorporating light-management techniques into the plans for coastal development are the most effective ways to fulfill lighting needs while protecting sea turtles.
Sea Turtle Trivia
- Florida beaches are home to 80% of Loggerhead turtles in the U.S.
- Turtles can migrate thousands of miles, but usually return to lay their eggs on the same beach where they hatched
- Sea turtles have existed for over one hundred million years
- It can take 15 - 50 years before a sea turtle is capable of reproducing
- Scientists estimate that only 1 in 1000 to 10,000 babies will survive to adulthood
- Sea turtles live their entire life in the ocean. The only time they comes ashore is when the female lays her eggs.
- Sea turtles are reptiles. They breathe air, and can hold their breath for long periods of time.
- When its time to sleep, a loggerhead will wedge under a rock close to the shore, or take a snooze while floating on the surface of deep water
- Hatchelings weigh less than one ounce and are only two inches long. Adults can grow over 3 feet long and weigh 200 to 300 pounds!
- The nest temperature during incubation determines a sea turtle's sex. Boys like it cool - Girls like it hot.
- Sea turtles have great underwater vision, but are nearsighted out of the water.
- Although sea turtles do not have external ears, they are capable of hearing low frequency sounds and vibrations
- Sea turtles use their strong jaws to crush a diet of crabs, shrimp, mussels, and jelly fish | environmental_science |
https://www.desbirchauthor.com/blog/ | 2022-12-06T07:11:52 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-49/segments/1669446711074.68/warc/CC-MAIN-20221206060908-20221206090908-00097.warc.gz | 0.958951 | 510 | CC-MAIN-2022-49 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-49__0__190080235 | en | As the nights close in, and the cold wind drives the warmth from our bodies, It’s time for gloves, scarves and heavy coats. Some will look forward to the snow painting their world white, and giving them solid water on which to skate and make snow angels. Others might think towards the Christmas break, carefully choosing gifts for loved ones. For some people, winter will bring hardship with slippery roads and unpredictable weather. Hospital workers will be preparing for the inevitable influx of cold-weather patients, hoping the system will cope. The elderly might have to choose between warmth and food, some being faced with a seemingly impossible situation, wondering if they will survive the loneliness. Yet others can no longer see the point of this struggle, and simply tuck up into their chilly bed, hoping for release, and to be reunited with long lost loves. Street dwellers are particularly affected by the cold. Already rejected by society, with little hope of a future, their world freezes over. With jollity abounding over the holiday period, the gap between them and society becomes a chasm, and with the first snowflake heralding rejection by nature itself, some will make the terrible choice to end it all.
Nature has a very different take on things. Trees tend to sleep through winter, sucking goodness from their leaves, leaving a pallet of colour around. Bulbs and seeds lay dormant, waiting to spring into life when the signal is given. Lucky animals migrate, but this too can be a perilous journey. Others grow thicker coats and even change colour to keep safe. There will be no gifts to give or receive, no celebrations, at least not yet. Creatures will huddle together for warmth, sharing their space with others in the same predicament, each understanding that winter is not the end, but merely part of the wonderful cycle of life. As the deer stand in the forest clearing, breath billowing in the chilled spring air, they know that very soon it will be a time for celebration. When the morning song of the blackbird settles on them through the mist, they will gain strength from the new life being created all around them, and they know the true meaning of their existence.
Winter was over. The snow had gone but the sun had not yet chased away the frost that froze time in the grassy shadows under the bushes. The air was crisp with chill and anticipation as glints of sunlight flashed across the top of the lake, energising the water and promising the World its annual rebirth…Beyond Dark Waters | environmental_science |
http://www.watersage.com/products/water-sage-texas/ | 2017-04-27T12:58:30 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-17/segments/1492917122167.63/warc/CC-MAIN-20170423031202-00365-ip-10-145-167-34.ec2.internal.warc.gz | 0.903402 | 359 | CC-MAIN-2017-17 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2017-17__0__238417928 | en | All of the water and land information you need in one easy to use, map-based platform.
Water Sage enables you to assess land, water, streamflow, groundwater levels, and development rules, all within a single intuitive interface. Water Sage combines data from state and local well records.
Being able to see points of diversion, well locations, and hydrological boundaries like aquifers and flood zones alongside land parcel outlines and aerial imagery lets you quickly put together a picture of water use and development.
From groundwater district rules to well databases to real-time gages, Water Sage continually collects and delivers data as it changes, saving you hours of research time.
Get the full picture of California water development and use faster than ever before.
Make sense of complicated data like never before. Water Sage provides flexible and simple ways to search, or you can search right from the map and explore. Eliminate the learning curve and take advantage of built-in insights and connections between land, water and development concerns.
Over 1 million wells from 41 data sources including state sources, groundwater conservation districts and historical PDF well logs
Over 6,000 water rights and almost 16,000 points of diversion, cross referenced to streams and upstream/downstream neighbors
Over 9.2 million land parcels in 167 counties
Water Sage summarizes rules and provides visual information on spacing requirements for all 100 groundwater conservation and subsidence districts in Texas
Over 34,000 gages measuring streamflow, water quality, and groundwater levels, both from USGS and the International Boundary Waters Commission
Hydrologic layers such as aquifers, brackish reserves, streams, basins and HUCs, as well as administrative boundaries, such as GMAs, GCDs and watermaster areas | environmental_science |
http://www.carbonscience.net/tag/carbon-in-food/ | 2015-04-28T11:50:49 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-18/segments/1429246661364.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20150417045741-00127-ip-10-235-10-82.ec2.internal.warc.gz | 0.940842 | 648 | CC-MAIN-2015-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2015-18__0__92769969 | en | It is easier to name the food items that don’t contain carbon than it is to list all the food stuffs that do contain carbon. Anything that was once alive – whether animal, fish, fruit or vegetable – contains carbon compounds. Carbon chemistry is usually referred to as organic chemistry because carbon is the basis of life on the planet. Only things like water (H2O), vitamin supplements and salt (NaCl) don’t contain any carbon. It would be impossible to live without consuming carbon compounds.
This means the great challenge for agriculture in the Twenty-first Century is not only to keep yield levels high enough to meet the demands of a growing world population, but also to make ever increasing amounts of food without increasing carbon dioxide and methane emissions. While vegetables and fruit grow by absorbing carbon dioxide, water and sunlight and turning it into energy, the process of preparing agricultural land with fertilizers and pesticides, using agricultural equipment and transporting food all traditionally rely on petro-chemical inputs whose production and use increase greenhouse gas emissions.
This post, however, is going to look at a few lesser known uses of carbon in food culture.
The most useful type of carbon in the kitchen is charcoal. In Asia they often use bamboo charcoal which contains extra properties such as ‘kun’ that is antimicrobial.
Charcoal has a very high surface area to weight ratio; activated charcoal even more so. As a result it is very absorbent (adsorbent actually) and having charcoal in the kitchen is a good way to remove bad odors from the air. Charcoal can also be used as a water filter. Lots of people have charcoal filters over their kitchen faucets.
Activated charcoal and activated bamboo charcoal is making a recent comeback in powdered form as a type of medicine. The charcoal will absorb and neutralize many poisons and toxins when ingested. In the Orient they have been using bamboo charcoal and bamboo vinegar for this purpose for centuries.
An old housewife’s trick to make soggy lettuce fresh and crisp again is to leave it in a container with a piece of charcoal overnight.
The Japanese sometimes use powdered bamboo charcoal to make the broth for some noodle soups. They also use bamboo charcoal when preparing pickles to make the vegetable chewy. Another common use of bamboo charcoal in Japanese cooking is in the fat when making tempura. The charcoal helps to keep the oil clean and to make the fried food crispier and more delicious.
Finally, both charcoal and bamboo charcoal are popular fuels for cooking. Many people prefer the taste of barbecued meats especially when cooked on charcoal. For connoisseurs the type of wood used to make the charcoal is of paramount importance for the final flavor of the food.
An advantage of cooking with charcoal is that charcoal is smokeless. This is a serious point because death from respiratory failure caused by cooking indoors with wood is the biggest killer of children in the developing world.
It is surprising how important carbon is to the subject to food. Not only is it the backbone of all food chains, but it is also a useful fuel, cooking condiment, a medicine, filter and air freshener. | environmental_science |
http://exergy-storage.nl/ | 2020-10-31T03:32:30 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-45/segments/1603107912807.78/warc/CC-MAIN-20201031032847-20201031062847-00500.warc.gz | 0.958468 | 429 | CC-MAIN-2020-45 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2020-45__0__46684806 | en | Society is shifting towards a renewable energy mix, powered by the sun and the wind. This shift means we have to bridge the hours between when energy is available and when we actually need it. In meeting this challenge, energy storage takes a front and center role.
Exergy is developing a new battery technology to meet this challenge. It will offer high value to homeowners and communities in helping them make the most of their renewable generation.
The battery technology that Exergy is developing is specifically intended for stationary applications (as opposed to mobile ones). A typical application would be to firm your rooftop solar photovoltaic generation and shift excess energy a couple of hours to when you actually need it. This decreases your dependency on the grid and drastically improves self-consumption of generated energy.
Being a battery technology, it comes with the usual benefits of battery storage, like instant availability and independence of siting and environmental conditions. Here are some highlights:
Low cost Our battery technology leverages some of the world’s most abundant materials. These can be locally sourced and let us pursue the low costs that are needed to make energy storage not just a responsible choice for consumers, but also an economically sound one.
Safe and reliable A future founded on sustainable energy should not come at the expense of personal safety. Therefore safety has been a part of our design and engineering processes from the very start, so that the system is perfectly suitable even for residential applications.
Small footprint Built from environmentally benign materials that can be locally sourced, the storage devices are designed to be near-completely recyclable and have absolutely zero emissions.
Efficient Our storage technology is designed with a round-trip efficiency target approaching 90%, so that as little energy as possible is lost during storage cycles.
Modular Modularity means the system can support single homes as well as entire communities, and that capacity can be upgraded when it is required. In other words, the available storage capacity can be easily and seamlessly adapted to changing needs.
Durable Based on established technologies with decade-plus lifetimes even under daily use, our battery technology is built to last. | environmental_science |
https://envisioncanada.com/project-awards/power-distribution-improvements-at-bowery-bay-wwtp/ | 2023-11-29T15:52:00 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100112.41/warc/CC-MAIN-20231129141108-20231129171108-00648.warc.gz | 0.906706 | 1,744 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__44511614 | en | Power Distribution Improvements Project at Bowery Bay Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility earns Envision Silver
Southwest aerial photo of the Bowery Bay WRRF located in Astoria, Queens Borough, NY
The BB-215 Power Distribution Improvements Project at the Bowery Bay Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) located in Astoria, Borough of Queens, New York, has received the Envision® Silver award for sustainable infrastructure. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) worked in close collaboration with Greeley and Hansen to deliver this award-winning sustainable project.
“NYC DEP integrates sustainability on every capital project and is proud to receive recognition for this effort on the Bowery Bay Electrical Upgrade. The team has ensured continuation of this critical service to New Yorkers into the far future through innovative design and shared commitment to sustainability.” –DEP BB-215 Project Team
“Greeley and Hansen feels honored to have the opportunity to work together with the NYCDEP on this challenging and forward-thinking project. The sustainable features of the facility’s upgraded power distribution system will provide valuable environmental, operational, and economic benefits to the city and its residents for many years to come.” – Brian R. Goldman, P.E., ENV SP – Greeley and Hansen BB-215 Project Manager
The Bowery Bay Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) has a current dry weather flow design capacity of 150 million gallons per day (MGD) and a maximum wet weather flow capacity of 330 MGD. Originally constructed in 1939, the WRRF has undergone several major expansions and upgrades to serve its current drainage area of approximately 15,200 acres. To continually provide the important service of wastewater treatment and resource recovery to the surrounding community, the facility’s equipment is periodically upgraded to the increase efficiency. In addition, repairs to the facility are periodically required, especially after major storm events such as Hurricane Sandy. The latest Power Distribution Improvements Project—the project submitted for third-party verification against the Envision sustainable infrastructure framework—involves: consolidation of the facility-wide power distribution system: conversion of the facility’s remaining 208 volt distribution systems and equipment loads to 480 volt; removing obsolete motor control centers and equipment; replacing electrical equipment, motors, and associated wiring; replacing the 4160 volt synchronous bus and 4 utility service paralleling reactors in the main substation; and providing new mimic panels in the main substation and facility control room to improve operator safety.
The primary goal of the Power Distribution Improvements Project is to provide reliable service to the 850,000 people in the community, and sustainability has been a major focus for the project team since the project’s initial inception. For this reason, the project team pursued Envision verification to acknowledge and validate the proactive sustainability outcomes for Bowery Bay WRRF.
“The BB-215 Project Team has been committed to providing a sustainable design that benefits the surrounding community by providing reliable service at all times. Envision verification ensures community concerns and needs are properly addressed. The team is proud to have the opportunity to work with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection and all stakeholders for this project.” – Greeley and Hansen BB-215 Project Team
The Envision system examines the impact of sustainable infrastructure projects as a whole, through five distinct categories: Quality of Life, Leadership, Resource Allocation, Natural World, and Climate and Resilience. These key areas contribute to the positive social, economic, and environmental impacts on a community.
Key factors contributing to the Power Distribution Improvements Project at the Bowery Bay WRRF earning Envision Silver include:
Equipment throughout the WRRF is being upgraded to increase energy efficiency, including the use of LED lighting that will replace older, less efficient lighting, and the installation of high-efficiency motors that will replace less efficient existing models. Parasitic transformers are being removed, electrical loads consolidated, and a new electrical building constructed that will meet the ASHRAE 90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings. All together, these measures will reduce energy consumption by 32% per year compared with the existing baseline at the WRRF.
Use of Recycled and Regional Materials
For the project construction, the team specified the reuse of existing structures to the greatest extent possible, and also required reuse of the facility’s existing asphalt and concrete. When reuse is not possible, a significant percentage of recycled content is specified in new materials such as new concrete and steel. All specifications detailing recycled content, equipment efficiency, and material quality and performance will be enforced in the construction phase through shop drawing submittal review. Overall, it is anticipated that at least 55% of materials used on this project will come from reused/recycled sources.
In addition to using reused/recycled materials on this project, 100% of all construction materials for the project will be sourced within regional distance requirements required by Envision (e.g., all soils and aggregates will come from within 50 miles, and all concrete from within 100 miles). An Environmental Materials Reporting Form will be used to document the use of regional materials for each product and vendor.
A central purpose of this project is protecting the WRRF from the effects of flooding brought on by climate change and ensuring its ability to continue functioning under altered conditions. To this end, the project team conducted a comprehensive climate change impact analysis for all assets included in the project scope. The project was designed to protect all critical equipment in the WRRF from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s projected 100-year flood elevation for the area, plus an additional 32 inches to account for sea level rise and storm surge.
“The electrical upgrade project at the Bowery Bay Facility is a critical step towards a holistically sustainable and resilient wastewater treatment and resource recovery systems for New York,” said ISI President and CEO, John Stanton. “ISI is pleased to present this project with an Envision Silver award for sustainable infrastructure.”
Left: Southwest aerial rendering view of the new sustainable BB-215 Digester Complex Electrical Building
Right: Northeast rendering view of the new sustainable BB-215 Digester Complex Electrical Building.
New York City Department of Environmental Protection
Greeley and Hansen LLC
Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure
For inquiries related to ISI, Envision or the Envision verification process, contact:
John Stanton, President
About New York City Department of Environmental Protection
DEP manages New York City’s water supply, providing approximately 1 billion gallons of high quality drinking water each day to more than 9 million residents, including 8.5 million in New York City. The water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the city, comprising 19 reservoirs and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs, and 7,500 miles of sewer lines and 96 pump stations take wastewater to 14 in-city Wastewater Resource Recovery Facilities. DEP has nearly 6,000 employees, including almost 1,000 in the upstate watershed. In addition, DEP has a robust capital program, with a planned $19.4 billion in investments over the next 10 years that will create up to 3,000 construction-related jobs per year. For more information, visit nyc.gov/dep, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.
About Greeley and Hansen
Greeley and Hansen is a leader in developing innovative engineering, architecture, and management solutions for a wide array of complex water, wastewater, and related infrastructure challenges. The firm has built upon over 100 years of proven civil and environmental engineering experience in all phases of project development and implementation to become a premier global provider of comprehensive services in the water sector. Greeley and Hansen is dedicated to designing better urban environments worldwide. http://www.greeley-hansen.com/new.htm
BB-215 Project Team:
Thank you to all the NYCDEP and Greeley and Hansen Team Members that supported this award-winning sustainable project and the legacy of sustainability in NYC.
About ISI Envision
Envision® is the product of a joint collaboration between ISI, which was founded by three national engineering associations: the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Council of Engineering Companies, and American Public Works Association, and the Zofnass Program for Sustainable Infrastructure at Harvard University Graduate School of Design. Information on ISI and Envision can be found on the ISI website, | environmental_science |
https://ishc.hsyndicate.com/event/3004825.html | 2024-04-17T21:39:35 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817181.55/warc/CC-MAIN-20240417204934-20240417234934-00863.warc.gz | 0.916257 | 386 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__29218653 | en | Webinar: Healthy Hotel, Healthy Business. Preparing Your Property for Business After COVID-19
22 - 22 April 2020
Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam
Prins Hendrikkade 108
Amsterdam, 1011 AK
COVID-19 is undoubtedly changing the way in which we operate Hotels moving forward. Guests expectations might be higher for you to provide measures to illustrate your hotel's sustainability and provisions for a healthier stay on their next trip. Wayaj's team includes hoteliers and engineers who understand the value and importance of adapting to the times we live in and have a deep appreciation of the efforts that your Hotel will need to put into rebuilding confidence in the customer experience.
To help you learn more on how to prepare for your guests new expectations, we have designed a free webinar led by speakers Logan Cohen, LEED AP, ENV SP Wayaj, and Maribel Esparcia Pérez, European Sustainable Hospitality Club Founding Partner. They will address how to return to a successful business and focus on health and sanitary practices that will achieve that goal while minimizing their impact on the planet.
In this webinar you will learn:
- Scenario planning; the opportunity to implement changes in risk assessment and management facing environmental and social challenges
- How to better prepare our buildings to slow the spread of future viruses
- How virus spread in indoor spaces
- Best practices for cleaning staff
- Best practices for guest sanitation
- Optimal ventilation and filtration, temperature and humidity and innovations to achieve healthy buildings in a sustainable way
This webinar is part of Sustainable Hospitality in Progress, a new initiative promoted by Wayaj to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices throughout the hospitality industry, by fostering learning and communication among the industry professionals. | environmental_science |
https://watchonviral.com/index.php/2023/09/22/the-art-of-sustainable-fashion-how-to-make-eco-friendly-choices/ | 2023-12-03T09:51:17 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100499.43/warc/CC-MAIN-20231203094028-20231203124028-00834.warc.gz | 0.909116 | 749 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__12313187 | en | The Art of Sustainable Fashion: How to Make Eco-Friendly Choices
In a world increasingly aware of environmental issues, sustainable fashion has emerged as a powerful trend with a purpose. As consumers, we have the power to make eco-friendly choices that benefit both the planet and our personal style. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of sustainable fashion and provide practical tips on how to make environmentally conscious wardrobe decisions.
Why Sustainable Fashion Matters
- Reducing Environmental Impact: The traditional fashion industry is known for its significant environmental footprint. From water-intensive cotton farming to chemical-laden dyeing processes and excessive textile waste, it contributes to pollution and resource depletion. Sustainable fashion aims to minimize these negative effects.
- Ethical Production: Sustainable fashion often goes hand in hand with ethical practices. Many sustainable brands prioritize fair labor conditions, ensuring that the people involved in the production process are treated with respect and receive fair wages.
- Longevity and Quality: Sustainable fashion emphasizes quality over quantity. By investing in well-made, timeless pieces, consumers can reduce the need for constant replacements, ultimately saving money and reducing waste.
Tips for Making Eco-Friendly Fashion Choices
- Buy Less, Choose Wisely: Instead of constantly chasing the latest trends, opt for timeless pieces that can be worn for years. Quality over quantity should be your mantra. When shopping, ask yourself if you truly need the item and if it complements your existing wardrobe.
- Support Sustainable Brands: Many brands now focus on sustainability. Do your research and support those that prioritize eco-friendly materials, ethical production, and transparent supply chains. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and Certified B Corporation.
- Secondhand and Vintage Shopping: Thrifting is an excellent way to reduce clothing waste. Pre-loved fashion not only reduces the demand for new clothing production but also offers unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that add character to your style.
- Choose Sustainable Materials: When possible, opt for clothing made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, Tencel, or recycled fabrics. These materials are generally less harmful to the environment during production and disposal.
- Consider Local and Handmade: Supporting local artisans and designers can help reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, handmade items often have a lower environmental impact and a unique, artisanal quality.
- Take Care of Your Clothes: Extend the lifespan of your garments by following proper care instructions. Wash clothes in cold water, line dry when possible, and mend or tailor items when they need repair. This reduces the frequency at which you need to replace them.
- Clothing Rental and Swapping: Consider clothing rental services for special occasions or events. Clothes swapping with friends or at organized swap events is another sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe without buying new items.
- Recycle and Upcycle: When it’s time to part with clothing, explore recycling options. Additionally, get creative with upcycling by turning old clothes into new pieces or accessories.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about sustainability issues in the fashion industry. Understanding the impact of your choices can motivate you to make more eco-friendly decisions.
The art of sustainable fashion goes beyond looking good; it’s about feeling good about the choices you make as a consumer. By embracing eco-friendly practices, supporting sustainable brands, and adopting a more mindful approach to your wardrobe, you can contribute to a greener and more ethical fashion industry. Your choices have the power to shape the future of fashion for the better, one eco-friendly decision at a time. | environmental_science |
https://www.worldspaceclub.com/every-mission-to-mars-so-far-2/mars-express | 2024-04-24T05:19:43 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296819067.85/warc/CC-MAIN-20240424045636-20240424075636-00640.warc.gz | 0.931855 | 345 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__92346934 | en | NASA is participating in a mission of the European Space Agency and the Italian Space Agency called Mars Express, which has been exploring the atmosphere and surface of Mars from polar orbit since arriving at the red planet in 2003. The spacecraft carries a science payload derived in part from European instruments lost on the ill-fated Russian Mars '96 mission, as well as a communications relay to support lander missions.
The mission's main objective is to search for sub-surface water from orbit. Seven scientific instruments on the orbiting spacecraft have conducted rigorous investigations to help answer fundamental questions about the geology, atmosphere, surface environment, history of water, and potential for life on Mars. Examples of discoveries - still debated by scientists -- by Mars Express are evidence of recent glacial activity, explosive volcanism, and methane gas.
Initially, Mars Express also carried a small lander called Beagle 2, named for the ship in which Charles Darwin set sail to explore unchartered areas of the Earth in 1831. The lander was lost on arrival in December, 2003.
NASA's involvement with the mission includes joint development of a radar instrument called MARSIS - short for the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionospheric Sounding - with the Italian Space Agency. MARSIS has already provided information about features beneath the Martian surface, including buried impact craters, layered deposits, and hints of deep underground water ice.
NASA's involvement also includes coordination of radio relay systems to make sure that different spacecraft operate together; a hardware contribution to the energetic neutral atoms analyzer instrument; and backup tracking support from NASA's Deep Space Network during critical mission phases.
- Straight outta NASA... Credit: JPL | environmental_science |
https://aaonetwork.org/news/articles/qa-nancy-somerville-aslas-new-center-landscape-architecture | 2023-03-27T14:34:32 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-14/segments/1679296948632.20/warc/CC-MAIN-20230327123514-20230327153514-00591.warc.gz | 0.959995 | 1,215 | CC-MAIN-2023-14 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-14__0__177076316 | en | The American Society of Landscape Architects' new Center for Landscape Architecture officially opened to the public in May. ALSA worked with architecture firm Gensler and landscape architecture firm Oehme van Sweden to turn its Washington headquarters into a state-of-the-art Center that embodies the mission, vision, and values of ASLA, featuring flexible meeting, reception, and exhibition spaces.
Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA, Executive Vice President/CEO of ASLA, spoke with us about the new Center, its potential impact, and plans for the future.
Association of Architecture Organizations (AAO): How does the new Center for Landscape Architecture differ from other architecture centers out there?
Nancy Somerville (NS): Well of course, our focus is on landscape architecture. While the building architecture itself is wonderful –and has surpassed environmental goals we’ve set for the building (we are on target for LEED Platinum and Well Building Silver)—we’ve made it a priority to integrate light and landscape throughout the building to really demonstrate to the public the possibilities and the importance of integrating landscape into architecture, not just around it. This idea of existing as a living demonstration project framed many of the decisions around the renovation.
Like many other centers, we have exhibit and event space, but the kind of programming we will be hosting will in large part focus on the landscape architecture profession’s priority issues from a public policy perspective, including active transportation, green infrastructure and integrating nature into urban spaces, community resilience, and climate change.
AAO: The building was home to ASLA prior to its renovation. Do you think that living with the building in its earlier form helped your team unlock the Center’s potential?
NS: Even before the renovation, we were proud to be a living model—since 2006 we’ve welcomed over 1,000 visitors a year to our green roof, for instance. When the roof opened, we were only the second or third green roof in D.C., so it was pretty significant. Our experience with the green roof reinforced our belief in the importance of demonstration projects—people want and need to see how something works. So we wanted to create a new Center that would be a demonstration project from top to bottom, including exterior greenwalls, a cistern to capture stormwater runoff, and gathering data in real time on stormwater capture and reuse. As part of our commitment to LEED and WELL, we will also be documenting building energy consumption, air and water quality, and occupant comfort.
Our next project will extend the demonstration out to the street. We are currently working with the District Department of Energy and the Environment on a demonstration green and complete street project on our block of I Street. We are just about to start design development for what we’re calling the Chinatown Green Street Demonstration Project, with landscape architecture firm Design Workshop as the lead. D.C., like so many large and small cities across the country, has a serious problem with flooding and pollution caused by stormwater runoff. Green roofs are part of the solution, but streets—the largest publicly owned area of land in a city—also have enormous potential as part of the solution. Green streets, like green roofs before them, are largely unfamiliar to most people, including developers and building owners. Here again, a demonstration project can play a critical role in demystifying and speeding adoption of sustainable development practices.
AAO: What does the Center allow you to do that you weren’t able to do as successfully before?
NS: This new Center really expands our ability to do public outreach. Prior to the renovation we had a very small conference room and below-ground patio, which limited the programming and outreach we were already doing. We did manage to squeeze in, including congressional receptions and coalition meetings and forums around our advocacy priorities, but now we have the space for larger events/audiences and broader public education as well.
AAO: Are there new staff positions dedicated to running the Center? What are they?
NS: So far we have not made any staff changes. The work involved with the renovation of the Center and with creation of the first exhibit and opening events has all been handled by existing staff. As the project evolved, we made some strategic decisions aimed at maximizing the initial impact without adding a significant amount of resources right away. For instance, early on we made the decision that the opening exhibition was going to be about the history of ASLA and the profession of landscape architecture; a significant body of knowledge about this topic was in the heads of key staff, which made the hiring of a separate curator for the first year unnecessary. Strategic partnerships, like teaming up with Freeman who did the design and printing of the exhibition, further extended our resources. Now that we are open, we can take some time to look at strategic needs around staff and resources for the Center going forward, and we will be setting more specific priorities for programming in alignment with our overall strategic plan and priorities. We’ve already had several unsolicited proposals for future exhibits, which is quite exciting. We will be evaluating those in the context of our priorities.
AAO: What opportunities do you see regarding collaboration with other architecture and design centers in the DC area?
NS: We are still in the initial stages of opening our Center and exploring partnerships. We know that we don’t want to replicate what is already happening. Our friends at the National Building Museum, for instance, do great programs, and have they have really expanded their programming around landscape architecture, which is fantastic. We’re not looking to redo that or duplicate what they are doing—rather, our intention is to use our new space in ways to further our advocacy and public awareness goals, particularly about designing healthy, resilient cities—and really using the Center in every way to support the profession’s key priorities.
All photos courtesy of ASLA. | environmental_science |
https://truetodogs.com/why-does-dog-pee-kills-grass/ | 2024-04-18T10:24:23 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817206.28/warc/CC-MAIN-20240418093630-20240418123630-00498.warc.gz | 0.931775 | 2,320 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__149599130 | en | Why does dog pee kills grass? You will learn about why dog pee is harmful to grass and why it can lead to patches of dead or discolored areas in your yard. We will discuss the chemical makeup of dog urine and how it affects the pH balance of the soil.
Additionally, we will explore some tips on how to prevent or minimize the damage caused by dog pee on your lawn. By understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon, you will be better equipped to maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn despite having a furry friend.
If you’re a dog owner, you may have noticed the unsightly yellow or brown patches that sometimes appear on your beautiful green lawn. The culprit behind this damage is dog urine. While it may seem like a harmless bodily function, dog urine contains chemicals that can have a detrimental effect on grass.
Chemical Composition of Dog Urine
Dog urine is primarily composed of water, with the remaining components being a mixture of nitrogen, urea, and other waste products. One of the key components responsible for damaging grass is nitrogen. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, but excessive amounts can have a negative impact.
Effects of Nitrogen on Dog Urine
When dogs urinate on grass, the high levels of nitrogen in their urine can cause an overload of this nutrient in the soil. This overload can lead to an imbalance in the nitrogen levels, which in turn can burn the grass and result in yellow or brown patches. The concentration of nitrogen in dog urine is typically much higher than what grass can handle, which is why the damage occurs.
Causes of Grass Damage
Grass damage can occur for various reasons, but dog urine is one of the major culprits. Aside from the high nitrogen levels, other factors such as the frequency and quantity of urination, the dog’s diet, and the pH levels of the soil can also contribute to the severity of the damage.
Factors Influencing the Severity of Damage
The severity of grass damage caused by dog urine can vary depending on several factors. One important factor is the size of the dog. Larger dogs tend to produce more urine, which means a higher concentration of nitrogen. Additionally, female dogs tend to cause more damage than males due to the way they urinate in one concentrated spot. The time of day at which the dog urinates can also play a role, as urine that is left on the grass overnight has more time to soak into the soil and cause damage.
Identifying Signs of Grass Damage
To address the issue of grass damage caused by dog urine, it’s important to be able to identify the signs of damage. Some common signs include the appearance of yellow or brown patches on the lawn, a localized odor in the affected area, and a comparison with other lawn issues such as lawn pests or disease. If you notice any of these signs, chances are that dog urine is the culprit.
Preventing and Minimizing Grass Damage
Preventing and minimizing grass damage caused by dog urine requires some proactive measures on your part as a responsible dog owner. Here are some steps you can take:
Monitoring Your Dog’s Water Intake
By monitoring your dog’s water intake, you can help regulate the amount of urine your dog produces. Ensuring that your dog stays properly hydrated can dilute the concentration of nitrogen in the urine and reduce the damage to your grass.
Properly Hydrating Your Dog
In addition to monitoring water intake, it’s important to ensure that your dog is properly hydrated. Make sure your dog has access to clean drinking water at all times, especially during hot weather or after exercise. This can also help dilute the urine and minimize damage.
Training Your Dog to Urinate in Designated Areas
One effective way to prevent grass damage is to train your dog to urinate in designated areas of your yard. By creating a specific spot for your dog to use, you can minimize the impact on the rest of your lawn. This can be accomplished through positive reinforcement training techniques.
Diluting Urine with Water
If you notice your dog has urinated on your grass, one way to minimize the damage is to immediately dilute the urine with water. Use a hose or watering can to saturate the affected area, which will help dilute the nitrogen and prevent it from burning the grass.
Types of Grass Resistant to Dog Urine
If you’re planning to redo your lawn or plant new grass, it’s worth considering types of grass that are more resistant to dog urine. Some grass species are naturally more resilient and can withstand the effects of nitrogen better than others. Here are some considerations when selecting grass varieties:
Selecting Resilient Grass Species
Certain grass species, such as Bermuda grass and Kentucky bluegrass, are known for their resilience to dog urine. These species have a higher tolerance for nitrogen and can recover more quickly from damage.
Mixing Grass Varieties
Another approach to creating a dog-friendly lawn is to mix different grass varieties. By combining grass species that have varying levels of tolerance to nitrogen, you can create a lawn that is more resistant to damage. Consult with a landscaper or garden center for advice on the best grass varieties for your area.
Consideration of Climate and Soil Type
When selecting grass species, it’s important to consider the climate and soil type of your region. Some grass species are better suited to specific climates and soil conditions, so choose varieties that thrive in your particular environment.
Lawn Care Techniques for Dog Owners
In addition to selecting the right grass species, there are certain lawn care techniques that can help minimize damage caused by dog urine. Here are some strategies to consider:
Regular watering is essential for diluting the concentration of nitrogen in the soil. By watering your lawn frequently, you can help flush away excess nitrogen and prevent damage.
Proper Mowing Practices
Maintaining the proper height when mowing your lawn is crucial for the health of your grass. Set your mower blades to a higher setting to leave the grass longer, as longer grass can help protect the soil from nitrogen burns and encourage root growth.
Regular Soil Aeration
Aeration involves creating small holes in the soil to allow for better air and water movement. Regular soil aeration can help improve the overall health of your lawn by reducing soil compaction and allowing nutrients to reach the grass roots more easily.
Applying Soil Amendments
Depending on the pH levels of your soil, applying soil amendments can help neutralize the effects of nitrogen. Products such as lime or sulfur can help adjust the pH levels to a more suitable range, promoting healthier grass growth.
Remedies for Existing Grass Damage
If your lawn already has visible damage from dog urine, there are several remedies you can try to revive the grass and restore its health:
Raking and Removing Damaged Grass
Start by raking the affected areas to remove any dead or damaged grass. This will help create a clean canvas for new growth and prevent the spread of disease or pests.
Overseeding involves spreading grass seed over the damaged areas. Choose a high-quality grass seed blend that is appropriate for your region. Follow the instructions on the seed packaging for the best results.
Rejuvenation through Proper Care
To help the grass recover, provide it with the necessary care and nutrition. Water the lawn regularly, practice proper mowing techniques, and consider applying a gentle fertilizer to promote healthy growth. With time and proper care, the damaged areas should rejuvenate and blend in with the rest of your lawn.
Alternative Solutions for Dog Urination
If you’re looking for alternative solutions to prevent grass damage altogether, here are a few options to consider:
Designating a Gravel or Mulch Area
Creating a designated area in your yard with gravel or mulch can provide a dog-friendly spot for your pet to relieve themselves. This eliminates the need to worry about grass damage and makes for easier cleanup.
Install Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is another option for dog owners who want a low-maintenance lawn that can withstand frequent dog urination. Artificial grass is resistant to urine and can be easily cleaned with water, making it an attractive option for those looking to eliminate grass damage.
Creating a Dog-Friendly Outdoor Space
If you have the space available, consider creating a separate outdoor area specifically for your dog. This can be achieved through the use of fencing or other barriers to designate a space where your pet can play and relieve themselves without causing damage to your lawn.
Understanding the Health Effects for Dogs
While we’ve been focusing on the impact of dog urine on grass, it’s also important to consider the health effects for dogs themselves. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Potential Risks of Toxicity
Some studies suggest that the high nitrogen levels in dog urine can pose a risk of toxicity if dogs ingest or come into contact with the grass. This is more likely to occur if the grass has been treated with chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Preventing Paw Irritation
Dog urine can cause skin irritation, particularly on the paws. To prevent this, make sure your dog’s paws are cleaned after they have been outside, especially on hot or sunny days when the grass may be hotter than usual.
Positive Implications of Regular Vet Checkups
Regular visits to the veterinarian can help ensure your dog’s overall health and well-being. Discuss any concerns you may have about grass damage and seek advice on how to minimize any potential health risks for your furry friend.
Environmental Impact of Dog Urine on Grass
In addition to the impact on your lawn and your dog’s health, dog urine can also have an environmental impact. Here are some points to consider:
Role of Nitrogen in Eutrophication
Excessive nitrogen from dog urine can contribute to a process called eutrophication. This occurs when an excessive amount of nutrients, such as nitrogen, enters bodies of water, leading to an overgrowth of algae and other aquatic plants. This can disrupt the balance of ecosystems and negatively impact water quality.
Mitigating Environmental Damage
To mitigate the environmental damage caused by dog urine, it’s important to practice responsible pet ownership. This includes minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides on your lawn, keeping your dog’s waste properly contained and disposed of, and being aware of the potential risks of excessive nitrogen in the environment.
Educating Dog Owners about Responsible Pet Ownership
By educating dog owners about the effects of dog urine on grass and the environment, we can promote responsible pet ownership. This includes taking steps to minimize grass damage, understanding the health implications for dogs, and being mindful of the environmental impact.
Dog urine can indeed have a detrimental effect on grass, resulting in unsightly yellow or brown patches. Understanding the chemical composition of dog urine, the causes of grass damage, and the various factors influencing the severity of the damage is crucial for dog owners.
By implementing preventative measures, selecting grass varieties resistant to dog urine, and practicing proper lawn care techniques, you can minimize the damage to your grass and create a dog-friendly outdoor space. | environmental_science |
https://sksethi.com/water-importance-of-water/ | 2024-03-03T06:09:25 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947476205.65/warc/CC-MAIN-20240303043351-20240303073351-00076.warc.gz | 0.970391 | 542 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__15446300 | en | Importance Of Water
Water is essential for life. A person can live without food for several weeks, but without water, life cannot last for more than a few days. The bodies of all plants and animals have large amounts of water. Several life processes in human beings and animals, such as digestion of food, absorption of nutrients by the body, distribution of nutrients to various parts of the body, or getting rid of body wastes, need the presence of water.
About 70 per cent of the human body consists of water. We take in water through food and drinking and lose it in the form of urine, sweat and exhaled air. Water also helps to control our body temperature. In hot weather, we drink a lot of water.
This maintains our body temperature within reasonable limits. Water that evaporates from the surface of our body in the form of sweat takes away a lot of heat and thus, cools the body.
In plants, water is essential for germination of seeds and their growth as well. It also helps to transport nutrients from the soil, and food from the leaves to different parts of the plants. Plants use water, along with carbon dioxide from the air, to make food in the presence of sunlight. You already know that this process is called photosynthesis.
Plants take in water from the soil through their roots. Our food contains a lot of water.
Besides being essential for life, water is very useful to us in many other ways. It is essential for cooking and washing and for generating electricity.
A large amount of water is used in agriculture and industries. Water is also used as a medium for transport.
Water also serves as home for several plants and anitials, Water does not heat up or cool down as fast as land. This helps to control temperature and enables water-plants and animals to survive in very hot or cold conditions.
Water, like air, is the most abundantly available substance on the earth. It fills the seas, rivers and lakes which cover more than three-fourths of the earth surface. It also exists as snow and ice on mountains. Water is also found within the earth’s crust. In the atmosphere, water is present in huge quantities as vapours or clouds.
Water is a natural resource so long as man does not disrupt the water cycle. Urbanization and industrialization are polluting water continuously. Most of water, being supplied in cities is unfit for drinking. The day is not away, when potable water will be difficult to obtain. We must take special precautions to consume and preserve water. Water is everlasting renewable natural resource. It could be conserved and used wisely. | environmental_science |
https://amazonpaint.com/process/ | 2024-04-13T03:54:33 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296816535.76/warc/CC-MAIN-20240413021024-20240413051024-00758.warc.gz | 0.917424 | 177 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__98792115 | en | RECYCLING YOUR LEFTOVER PAINT
The availability of places to take your leftover paint depends on where you live. In some states, such as California and Minnesota, there are well-developed programs called Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facilities that take leftover paint (and other materials that should not go in the trash), for no charge. In other states, there may be few if any, places that will accept your waste paint for recycling or disposal.
For information on where you can take leftover paint, try contacting your local county government, visit Earth911 or call 1-800-CLEAN-UP.
Please note that most Household Hazardous Waste programs do not accept paint from businesses. However, Amazon will accept non-hazardous water-based paints and some chemically similar wastes from businesses for recycling.
Please contact us for fees and further information. | environmental_science |
https://aanddwindows.com/fogged-window-repair/ | 2022-01-17T03:41:40 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-05/segments/1642320300289.37/warc/CC-MAIN-20220117031001-20220117061001-00003.warc.gz | 0.90433 | 449 | CC-MAIN-2022-05 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-05__0__184026363 | en | I’ve heard about the option of using Argon gas to boost energy efficiency. – Should I spend more to get the Argon gas?
The repair of a fogged double paned window (or IGU–insulated glass unit)can be further enhanced by adding Low-E coatings and filling the space between the lites with a noble gas such as Argon.
Argon is denser than air and reduces the amount of heat transfer through the IGU.
When 90 percent Argon gas-fill is used in a low-e IGU instead of air, the window’s insulating value can be improved by “up to” only 16 percent.
Argon gas is relatively cheap, but it can result in a slower cycle times in fabrication and add to increased production costs.
It is generally not a good investment to reppair fogged IGU’s with Argon just for energy-efficiency purposes.
Argon only typically increases the insulating R-value of a window by only half a point. (R-value is the measurement of thermal resistance; the higher the number, the more efficient the window.)
The small increase in insulating value from Argon will get you slight energy savings at a high purchase cost.
Argon does little or nothing to reduce transmission of ultraviolet and infrared radiation. (UV light from the sun can damage furnishings more important, infrared radiation transfers heat into or out of a home.)
Argon filled IGU’s have a risk of gas leakage. The partial pressure differentials between the air outside and the Argon inside cause it to naturally escape the IGU.
As Argon leaks out, the IGU loses insulating performance, and, since air doesn’t backfill into the IGU, the two lites of glass begin to collapse into the center of the unit, which can cause the glass to look distorted or even break.
Large incremental costs for Argon filled IGU’s generally outweigh their benefit.
At the end of the day it’s the customer’s choice if he/she wants to pay more for Argon filled IGU’s | environmental_science |
http://diva4maid.com/services | 2017-09-26T07:09:15 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-39/segments/1505818695113.88/warc/CC-MAIN-20170926070351-20170926090351-00712.warc.gz | 0.963067 | 698 | CC-MAIN-2017-39 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2017-39__0__173185193 | en | We provide full-service residential cleaning services in WNY. Not only do we provide several cleaning packages, but we offer the following additional services:
We deliver the quality service that you expect in a residential home cleaning company. A clean and healthy home says you care about your family. Call us. Our cleaning team will bring you the value that you deserve at a price that you can afford. We can achieve the standards of cleanliness and appearance you desire . . . at a price that makes sense.
With our service, you won't need to worry about whether or not our cleaners have been properly trained because we do. Each employee goes through a comprehensive training program and safety training before working with their supervisor in our clients' homes. We believe our most important asset is our people. The success of our business depends on them, so our people are well trained and well supervised.
We are professionals, and we strive to provide your home with the best care possible. If you have any questions or concerns about any of our policies and procedures, please contact us.
While people understand the importance of cleaning with regard to appearance, they are often unaware of how a clean home affects their health. A clean bathroom and kitchen are two areas that we commonly think of as needing to be clean for health reasons. However, there are other issues within the home that can cause physical harm to your body. Also, the very chemicals we use to clean can have an adverse affect on you.
Poor indoor air quality has been proven to be a cause of health problems. Allergies to dust and mold are common, and can lead to potentially serious conditions. Most traditional cleaning chemicals are toxic, and can cause allergic reactions as well. These can range from minor annoyances to potentially life-threatening. Also, some chemicals are actually poisonous or capable of causing chemical burns. These chemicals can also enter the environment, affecting our water supply.
Here at Diva 4 Maid, most of the products and equipment that we use are environmentally friendly, with the goal of providing you with a safe and healthy environment. Our chemicals are non-toxic, and many are derived from natural ingredients. We use HEPA-quality vacuums, which cut down on dust reintroduced into the air.
The health of you and your family comes first. Many chronic health conditions stem from our environment, so consider how much time you spend in your home. “Green cleaning” is more than a catch phrase, but rather a mind set to promote health.
It is highly recommended that you start with our Deep Cleaning so you get optimal results. If your ceiling fans, light fixtures, door and window trim has not been dusted on a regular basis, our routine cleaning will probably not give you the results you want.
The Deep (or Spring Clean) starts you off fresh and the routine cleanings can be thought of as “maintenance” to your home. To sum up the difference between the two cleans: we hand wipe all items listed in the Deep Clean and feather dust most items in the Routine “Maintenance” Clean. However, we never feather dust countertops, dining tables tops, coffee tables tops, appliances, etc.
Every “Maintenance Cleaning” includes the following:
Our "Deep Cleaning" addresses heavy dirt and dust build-up and includes all of the “Maintenance Cleaning” plus: | environmental_science |
https://terraluv.com/product-category/footwear/shoe-care-accessories/ | 2023-11-29T01:11:47 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100047.66/warc/CC-MAIN-20231129010302-20231129040302-00555.warc.gz | 0.89188 | 346 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__86396510 | en | Nikwax takes great care to minimize the effect of Nikwax products on the environment and on you, the consumer. Nikwax avoids materials in its cleaners like palm oil, that has been sourced from unsustainable plantations.
Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel™ is environmentally friendly; it is non-hazardous, WaterBased, biodegradable and not tested on animals.
Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof™ is easy and quick to apply; either spray or sponge on to wet shoes. Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof™ provides highly Durable Water Repellency (DWR) which develops on air drying. It leaves a flexible water repellent treatment on individual fibres of fabric and leather. This allows moisture vapour to pass through, maintaining breathability and keeping your feet dry. Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof™ has been specifically designed and optimized for fabric and leather combination footwear.
- Brush off dirt with a damp cloth and clean using Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel™.
- Shake well before use. Press sponge applicator to break seal.
- Apply generously to wet footwear; Spray-On (from a distance of 5cm) or Sponge-On.
- After 2 minutes, remove surplus with a cloth and allow to dry before use.
Note: Light/colored fabric and/or leather may darken after treatment. Test on a hidden area first.
- Leave footwear to dry at room temperature.
- Paper can be stuffed into the toes to absorb excess moisture, this should be replaced when wet.
- Keep footwear away from fires and radiators, drying too quickly can crack leather and cause bonded soles to peel. | environmental_science |
http://www.socisdg.com/en/blog/when-will-animal-cruelty-go-out-of-fashion/ | 2023-12-07T16:15:09 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100677.45/warc/CC-MAIN-20231207153748-20231207183748-00030.warc.gz | 0.959607 | 1,313 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__70093048 | en | When will animal cruelty go out of fashion?
By Prof. Dr Wayne Visser
Dr Wayne Visser is Professor of Integrated Value and holds the Chair in Sustainable Transformation at Antwerp Management School. He is also Fellow at the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership.
Every year, more than 150 billion animals are slaughtered, ending their extremely short lives having endured unspeakable suffering under barbaric factory-farming conditions, to satisfy insatiable human appetites for food and clothing. I am undeniably dismayed by this situation, but I am certainly not surprised. We have been killing animals to eat and stay warm (or fashionable) for thousands, perhaps even millions of years.
What I do find surprising, however, especially as an academic working on corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development for the past three decades, is how seldom animal rights makes it onto the ethical agendas of business, government and civil society. In this short reflective piece, I want to examine why this is – and more importantly, why the situation is now rapidly changing, happily for the better.
To begin, then, what are the reasons for our ethical blind-spot when it comes to animal welfare? There are a number of plausible explanations. First, some might wonder whether there is an ethical issue at all. They might still believe – often in line with their religious dogmas – that animals were placed on this earth solely for our exploitation. Therefore, it is our right to breed them and treat them and eat them how and when we like.
Then there is the widely held belief that animals are inferior in every way to humans and do not have intelligence, feel emotions, experience suffering, or need to enjoy a good quality of life, as we do. In fact, this has been thoroughly disproved by science – especially in the case of mammals, and even for birds and fish – but that doesn’t change the convenient and pervasive belief.
Another argument is that it is far more urgent and important to take care of human suffering by tackling poverty and human rights abuses. Not to mention other crises as well, like climate change and political corruption and economic growth. The unspoken needs of animals are simply too far down the list of critical priorities. And nowadays, livestock are killed quickly and ‘humanely’, so what’s the fuss anyway?
Of course, not everyone has such a cold-hearted, callous, self-serving perspective. For over 50 years, activists have been trying to bring the plight of animals to the public’s attention. Beauty Without Cruelty, for example, was founded in 1965. And Greenpeace launched in 1970 to stop the barbarism of commercial whaling and seal culling. But these have remained marginal voices for decades, until today.
Today, animal welfare is rising up the public agenda almost by accident, due to a series of unfortunate events. In the past few years, human-induced climate change has been established as a scientific fact and serious global crisis (accepted by all but the most ignorant, narcissistic and sociopathic among us). And as a result, the spotlight has started to shine brightly on the agricultural sector in general and the livestock industry in particular.
Overall, agriculture accounts for 70% of global freshwater consumption, 38% of total land use and 19% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions; and within these numbers, the footprint of meat and dairy production is particularly high. The broader food industry accounts for more than a quarter (26%) of climate-causing greenhouse gas emissions, which is higher than transportation, for example.
And it turns out that diets make a big difference. In fact, according the Project Drawdown, which studied and ranked the top 100 solutions to climate change, switching to a more plant-based diet is the fourth-most effective action we can take right now. An Oxford University study found that a switch to veganism by 2050 could cut emissions by 70%, while saving eight million lives and trillions of dollars in healthcare costs.
To make this impact more concrete, if you were to eat beef 3-5 times a week, you would create a carbon footprint of 1,611 kg per year, which is the equivalent of driving a regular petrol car 4,112 miles (6,618 km), or heating the average UK home for 255 days. By comparison, eating beans once a day creates a carbon footprint of 20 kg per year, the same as driving 53 miles (86 km) or heating the average UK home for 3 days.
This is one of the reasons why veganism has taken off in the past few years. Growth in the UK has exceeded 700% in the past 2 years and now accounts for 7% of the population, while in the US, it has grown 600%, from 1% in 2014 to 6% in 2017. And since veganism is not just a dietary choice but also a lifestyle choice – based on not harming animals or using animal products – this has had knock-on effects for the fashion industry as well.
For example, we now see an explosion of the global faux leather market, which is set to hit $85 billion by 2025, according to a 2017 report by Grand View Research (GVR). Similarly, there has been a 135% growth in vegan cosmetics since 2013, according to Mintel’s Global New Products Database (GNPD). Meanwhile, vegan fashion brands like Steinmetz, Jakke, Ministry of Tomorrow, Cult Gaia and Marais USA are booming.
Donning my (pineapple-leather) academic hat, I foresee a rapid uptake of animal cruelty-free and vegan textiles in the next 2-5 years, as part of CSR and sustainability programs in business. This applies not only to the fashion industry, but to companies from every sector that consume billions of items of workwear – from uniforms and high-visibility jackets to suits and health-and-safety shoes.
To conclude on a personal note, as someone who made the choice to be vegetarian more than 30 years ago and to be vegan just over 2 years ago – in both instances primarily driven by a concern for animal welfare – I can only say that the change cannot come too soon. Animal cruelty must go out of fashion, fast! There are billions of sentient creatures who share the web of life on this beautiful planet. Our survival may not depend on them, but our dignity and humanity does. | environmental_science |
http://www.chasewnelson.com/tag/natural-selection/ | 2024-04-21T12:03:14 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817765.59/warc/CC-MAIN-20240421101951-20240421131951-00014.warc.gz | 0.96446 | 1,090 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__55597107 | en | Episode 2. An introduction to natural selection, its limits, and the neutral theory of molecular evolution.
- Singing Scientist Podcast
[Study published in Virus Evolution]
West Nile virus (WNV) is an RNA virus that usually cycles between birds (like robins and crows) and mosquitoes. However, it can also cause fatal brain inflammation (encephalitis) when infecting humans. Related to Zika virus, Dengue virus, and Yellow Fever virus, WNV is responsible for some of the most extensive outbreaks of vector-borne disease ever observed. WNV in the Americas arose from a single strain that arrived in the United States in 1999, likely on a plane to New York from Israel or North Africa. Very early in the process of spreading through the hemisphere, a new genotype named WN02 arose via mutation, containing a nonsynonymous (amino acid-changing) difference in the envelope protein at site 159, changing a valine to an alanine. This single mutation greatly sped up WNV’s development in mosquitoes, shortening the time required for it to spread to new hosts — the unfortunate victims of the sick mosquito’s bite. This selective advantage led to the sweep of the WN02 strain across North America in a matter of a few years.
As with other RNA viruses, mutations in WNV occur with high frequency. Despite this, WNV and its relatives often display less genetic diversity than other RNA viruses. Over a decade of lab research, mostly using chickens, has supported the hypothesis that this genetic constraint is due to natural selection acting differently in birds and mosquitoes. More specifically, it has been thought that WNV is relatively free to mutate in mosquitoes, where it gains genetic diversity. However, conditions inside birds are very strict, such that most of the virus’ diversity is pruned away. Furthermore, different mutations may be necessary to infect mosquitoes and birds, adding twice as many genetic requirements than if viruses infected only one host species.
In a new paper in Virus Evolution, colleagues and I show that these models of WNV evolution, which were developed in the laboratory, do not seem to play out in the wild. The data come from over a decade of screening studies in which birds and mosquitoes in the Chicago suburbs were randomly caught and tested for infection with WNV. In the end, WNV infection was so rare in birds that only 6 birds could be identified as WNV-infected and also mapped to the same time and place as infected mosquitoes (which were more common).
Instead of observing more viral genetic diversity in mosquitoes (as seen in the laboratory), we observed slightly more diversity in birds, with no significant differences between the two host types.
Our results were surprising. Instead of observing more viral genetic diversity in mosquitoes (as seen in the laboratory), we observed slightly more diversity in birds, with no significant differences between the two host types. The host with the greatest amount of viral diversity was one of the birds, not one of the mosquitoes, and the infecting virus may have been undergoing positive (Darwinian) natural selection. When genetic variation existed in multiple hosts, it was nearly always the same variant — for example, a mutation from adenine (A) to guanine (G) — whether or not the host was a bird or a mosquito. And, perhaps most importantly, virus populations in birds were just as similar to viruses from mosquitoes as they were to viruses from other birds, on average.
These results are important for a number of reasons. First, it seems that, while selection may favor certain genetic variants in birds and others in mosquitoes, this must be the exception and not the rule. Instead, when sites in the genome are allowed to vary, they can do so in either host type — in other words, there is no genetic signature of WNV in birds as opposed to WNV in mosquitoes. The virus is simply good at infecting both birds and mosquitoes — end of story. One consequence of this observation might be that only a small subset of all possible changes to the WNV genome represent viable options for WNV evolution. If correct, this substantially narrows the ‘candidate’ mutations that need to be explored in predicting how WNV and similar viruses will evolve next.
Caveats abound. Because our study was of natural (not laboratory) infections, we were limited by the small number of captured hosts that were infected. Small samples are always subject to error. As a result, we were also unable to say anything about differences in how WNV behaves in different species of birds or different species of mosquitoes. However, our study does highlight the fact that the behavior of viruses in the wild does not always follow the expectations developed in the lab. Most importantly, future studies should endeavor to use the same bird and mosquito species as those infected in the wild — for example, laboratory use of chickens to study WNV may not be as good a choice as, for example, robins. Deciding whether our results are generally true for WNV, or perhaps even for other related viruses, must await similar studies in other systems and regions. | environmental_science |
http://starticris.co.ke/standing-up-for-nature/ | 2021-05-06T22:59:51 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-21/segments/1620243988763.83/warc/CC-MAIN-20210506205251-20210506235251-00515.warc.gz | 0.941655 | 714 | CC-MAIN-2021-21 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-21__0__186603803 | en | “Mother nature is very generous but unforgiving. If you destroy nature, if you don’t obey the rules of nature, nature will destroy you.” the late Prof. Wangari Mathai, Nobel Prize winning environmentalist.
True to each of these words, nature is everything. Nature is life. It is defined as the natural, physical or material universe. In essence, without nature there is no life.
It is therefore vital and necessary to protect and conserve nature. If not for anything else, to keep everything alive (from human beings to safari ants) from going extinct. One very core component of nature that we have absolute control over is forests. A forest is basically a whole multitude of trees standing side by side. An even better definition of a forest is a single tree, a million times. Yes. It all starts with a single tree.
Currently, approximately 4 Billion hectares of the earth’s surface is covered in forests. The largest forest expanse is The Amazon which spreads across nine South American countries, covering well over 2.2 million square miles. Why do we need forests, you may ask?
Forest Vegetation Cover
Forests are the dominant terrestrial ecosystem of the earth. They account for 75% of the gross primary production of the Earth’s biosphere. They contain 80% of the Earth’s plant biomass. They are the sole breadwinner of the very important ozone layer. The ozone is entirely made up of oxygen molecules. This oxygen comes from the trees, thickens up the ozone layer and prevents harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun from reaching the Earth’s surface. You know what happens when the rays of the sun get express access to the earth’s surface? Global warming. And oh, don’t get me started on it. Summarily, the services that forests render the human kind cannot be exhausted.
Now, the globally recommended forest cover in a country is a minimum of 10%. Here in Kenya, only 1.7% of land is covered in forests. This is a critical UCU condition that requires urgent resuscitation. We are basically on life support. It is an emergency. Food, water, oxygen are diminishing by the day. Things a human being can hardly survive without. Lives have been lost. Starvation, thirst, asthma. For every one tree that’s cut down without being replaced, a human life is endangered.
Civilization is a good thing that has really threatened and hurt many forests. Encroachments to create land for infrastructure has especially led to massive deforestation. Forest fires are also not helping matters. The Mau complex, which is the largest indigenous montain forest in East Africa, suffered a rather significant setback in recent years thanks to a forest fire.
So, what do we do?
The government in partnership with environmental organisations have made efforts to encourage reforestation in the country. Creating awareness, setting apart tree planting days and putting in place penalties for people who go about cutting trees aimlessly are some of the ways reforestation is being implemented.
However, like stated above, it all starts with a single tree. In the same spirit, it starts with just one person. You. Plant a tree today. Who knows? That single tree could birth a whole forest in half a decade. That forest could take the coverage up by 1%. Stand up and make a difference. Let us be nice to Mother nature lest she destroys us.
Plant a tree today!! | environmental_science |
https://artlyst.com/news/assemble-to-reconfigure-granary-square-into-a-wintery-landscape/ | 2023-12-07T05:04:43 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100632.0/warc/CC-MAIN-20231207022257-20231207052257-00669.warc.gz | 0.913419 | 972 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__136926701 | en | Granary Square in King’s Cross will be transformed into a compelling winter landscape, unveiling its latest annual installation, ‘Fleeting Forest’. In collaboration with Turner Prize-winning collective Assemble and Local Works Studio, the installation promises to intrigue visitors until February 2024.
Embracing the seasonality of the winter woodland, Fleeting Forest stands apart from traditional festive installations. Comprising 36 living trees, the exhibit weaves a tapestry of bare branches, fallen leaves, and the ambience of a winter forest. The collaborative effort incorporates the creative minds of Studio Dekka, A-swarm, Webb Yates, and Central Saint Martins.
Designed as an intimate square within a square, the installation uses nursery-grown trees, pine and birch saplings from Ashdown Forest, and various plant species commonly found on commons. The structure, supported by straw bale walls and chestnut fencing, creates a human-scale clearing warmly lit during the night and gloomy days, casting a soft glow against the surrounding buildings.
Accompanying the visual spectacle is a sound piece by Cameron Bray, providing a sensory journey for visitors. The immersive experience captures the trees’ odyssey from a nursery near London to the heathland wilderness of Ashdown Forest and finally to their urban home at Bramcote Park.
What sets Fleeting Forest apart is its commitment to positive impacts beyond the installation. The selection of “wonky” nursery trees, challenging to sell due to unusual shapes or markings, challenges conventional norms. Additionally, saplings and ground cover plants were sourced during habitat creation to conserve Ashdown Forest, emphasizing sustainability.
Upon the installation’s conclusion in February 2024, the specimen trees will find a new home in Bramcote Park, enhancing the public space and contributing to biodiversity. The remaining plants will be distributed to community gardens and schools around King’s Cross.
Fleeting Forest serves as a visual spectacle and an open-air seminar room for architecture students from Central Saint Martins. It provides a platform for discussing woodland habitats and their potential to build a regenerative, greener urban environment.
Assemble Collective, and Local Works Studio expresses their hope that Fleeting Forest showcases the positive impacts a temporary installation can have on communities and environments. The project seamlessly connects ongoing initiatives related to our interaction with natural landscapes within and outside London.
Chrissy Cullen, Place Marketing Director at King’s Cross, emphasized the ongoing commitment to bring thought-provoking and interactive winter installations to Granary Square. With its unique blend of aesthetics and environmental consciousness, Fleeting Forest promises visitors an opportunity to sit, contemplate, and appreciate the changing seasons in the city’s heart.
Assemble, a London-based collective, has emerged as a trailblazer in art, design, and architecture. Formed in 2010, this innovative group defies conventional boundaries, seamlessly blending creativity with a commitment to community engagement.
Founded by 18 members with diverse backgrounds, including architecture, design, and art, Assemble challenges the traditional hierarchical structure of creative practices. Their collaborative approach emphasizes shared decision-making, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment.
Assemble gained widespread recognition for their transformative work in Granby Four Streets, Liverpool. Their innovative revitalization project, initiated in collaboration with residents, turned a neglected neighborhood into a vibrant community space. This success catapulted them into the spotlight, earning them the prestigious Turner Prize in 2015, a testament to their impactful contributions to contemporary art and urban regeneration.
The collective’s projects often involve repurposing existing spaces and breathing new life into forgotten or overlooked areas. Their approach goes beyond aesthetics; it seeks to address social, economic, and environmental challenges, creating spaces that resonate with the communities they serve.
Assemble’s commitment to sustainable and socially conscious design has led to collaborations with various organizations and institutions. Their work often involves repurposing materials, engaging local artisans, and incorporating community input into the creative process.
From temporary installations to long-term regeneration projects, Assemble continues pushing conventional artistic practices’ boundaries. Their ethos revolves around the idea that art and architecture should be accessible and inclusive and contribute meaningfully to the communities they inhabit.
In a world where creativity meets social responsibility, Assemble stands as a beacon, showcasing the transformative power of collective action and the boundless possibilities that emerge when diverse talents converge with a shared vision.
Top Photo: Fleeting Forest, the latest in King’s Cross’ annual winter installation series on Granary Square, features 36 warmly-lit living trees that embrace the seasonality of the winter woodland with ambient sound pieces. Designed in collaboration between Assemble and Local Works Studio. Photography by John Sturrock | environmental_science |
https://wellness.ku.edu/move-n-learns | 2022-11-28T12:38:26 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-49/segments/1669446710503.24/warc/CC-MAIN-20221128102824-20221128132824-00726.warc.gz | 0.912869 | 361 | CC-MAIN-2022-49 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-49__0__150595295 | en | A Move-N-Learn is a free, guided tour of a building or location on KU's beautiful campus. It provides participants an opportunity to get some physical activity while learning something new about the campus! Participants are able to earn a HealthQuest credit for attending a Move-N-Learn.
Individuals seeking reasonable accommodations can contact Faculty and Staff Wellness at [email protected].
Registration is required prior to an event.
Upcoming Move-N-Learn Events
KU Botanical Science Greenhouses
Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023
12:10 - 12:50 p.m.
Did you know that KU is home to a curated collection of rare plants from all over the world? Please consider joining us on a tour of the KU Botanical Science Greenhouses located on a rooftop in Haworth Hall. We'll learn about the history of the greenhouses, their functional systems, and ongoing research conducted there. This will also be an opportunity to get up close to rare and endemic plants, including some that are threatened or extinct in the wild. See the towering single leaf of the corpse plant, unique carnivorous plants, and the world's smallest water lily. We'll give a brief overview of the evolution of plant life here on Earth, and which plants in our greenhouses fit where on that evolutionary tree. You're sure to leave refreshed and eager for spring!
- Meet at Haworth Hall, Room 3014
- Space is limited to 20 people with wait-list
- Registration on MyTalent available soon for KU employees
- KU affiliates can email [email protected] to register
Instructor: Patti Beedles, Greenhouse Manager | environmental_science |
https://www.airductcleaningsaratoga.info/air-duct-cleaning | 2023-12-01T10:08:02 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100286.10/warc/CC-MAIN-20231201084429-20231201114429-00866.warc.gz | 0.959287 | 445 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__95361810 | en | Looking for reliable and effective air duct cleaning services? Our professional company is here to provide them. We have long experience in cleaning HVAC ductwork systems of all designs and sizes. Whether you have a complex or very old system, it will receive the best possible treatment. Rest assured that all contaminants found in the ducts will be removed for improving the indoor air quality in your home. Our solutions are comprehensive for achieving lasting results.
It is up to you to decide when to use our services. Many people do it when they notice increased amounts of dust and pollen in the rooms despite frequent surface cleaning. There are also those who have made cleaning parts of their HVAC maintenance schedule. No matter what your situation is, you will receive full professional services in the shortest imaginable time.
The work begins with full inspection. If there is any damage, it will be fixed. Our air duct repair techniques are safe, proven and effective, so you can be rest assured your duct will be in perfect condition.All dirt accumulations are identified during the inspection. Then they are removed from the surface using advanced machinery and tools. The loose dirt, dust and pollen particles are extracted with powerful suction. If air filter replacement is required, this task will be done as well. We are prepared to do everything necessary for giving you fresh indoor air and healthy living environment.
Our residential air duct cleaning services include the removal of microbial contaminants as well with the most common one being mold. They are treated with special equipment and materials. The treatment eliminates mold while being completely safe for people, pets and the ducts. Measures for preventing future growth are taken as well. It is our goal to give you maximum protection.
After all contaminants are removed, the surfaces are sanitized. This will keep them completely safe and more resistant to future accumulation. The indoor air will remain clean and free from dangerous allergens for longer. Count on us, at "Air Duct Cleaning Saratoga", to deliver the ideal outcome without any kind of delay. The job is done swiftly no matter how hard or complex it may be.
Take a look at the special deals that our company offers and updates regularly.Back To Our Services | environmental_science |
https://www.atriushealth.org/healthy-living/blog/one-by-one-contact-lens-recycling-program | 2023-09-25T12:11:24 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-40/segments/1695233508977.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20230925115505-20230925145505-00402.warc.gz | 0.875765 | 581 | CC-MAIN-2023-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-40__0__218425903 | en | The ONE by ONE Contact Lens Recycling Program is the only contact lens recycling program in the U.S. and an effective way to properly recycle your contact lens waste. This free recycling service applies to any and all brands of soft contacts, and it is available to all of our patients! And, as an added bonus, for every 10-pound collection, a $10 donation will be made to Optometry Giving Sight, a global fundraising initiative aiming to solve unnecessary blindness and vision impairment in communities around the world with limited or no access to eye exams and optical correction.
Why recycle contact lenses?Most contact lens wearers are not properly recycling their contact lens waste. All too often, contact lenses are flushed in drains, like toilets and sinks. When wrongfully disposed of, up to 3 billion contacts may end up in our wastewater treatment plants each year, accumulating as microplastics in our waterways, harming marine life, and entering the human food supply. Standard recycling does not work well either: contact lens waste is too small and gets filtered out to end up in landfills. Just imagine that an end-to-end trail of the contact lens packaging waste generated in the U.S. annually could circle the earth 3 times over!
How to join the contact lens recycling efforts?Participation is completely free and very easy. Simply collect your blister packs, top foils, and contact lenses at home and drop them off at any of our Atrius Health optical shops when ready to recycle. You do not need to clean the waste before dropping it off or worry about separating or sorting the materials. Please note that cardboard boxes are recyclable through regular municipal recycling, so do not include them in your drop-off.
Atrius Health Optical Shop drop-off locations for contact lens recycling:
Braintree - 111 Grossman Drive, Braintree, MA 02184
Chelmsford - 228 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824
Chestnut Hill/West Roxbury - 291 Independence Drive, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Concord -330 Baker Avenue, Concord, MA 01742
Dedham- One Lyons Street, Dedham, MA 02026
Kenmore - 133 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Medford - 26 City Hall Mall, Medford, MA, 02109
Peabody/Lynnfield - 2 Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA 01960
Quincy - Presidents Place, South Tower 1250 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA 02169
Somerville – 40 Holland Street, Somerville, MA 02144
Wellesley - 230 Worcester Street, Wellesley, MA 02481
If you are interested in shipping your contact lens waste directly to TerraCycle from home, visit Terracycle for more details. | environmental_science |
https://isanaja-consulting.com/94-nos-missions/238-entrepreneurs | 2024-04-21T01:58:47 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817699.6/warc/CC-MAIN-20240421005612-20240421035612-00427.warc.gz | 0.925118 | 140 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__4523047 | en | Homme & femme d'affaire, entrepreneurs, artistants, employé
There are many reasons why laminate flooring may be the best choice for your home. Laminate flooring offers the look of real wood or stone at a fraction of the cost, presenting an extremely economical option for many home owners. Laminate flooring is easy to install, easy to clean and easy to maintain. Laminate is an exceptionally durable product and resists both staining and fading. In addition, laminate flooring can be an environmentally friendly option, often made with recycled materials and requiring no harvesting of rare trees. Visit a Floor Store location near you to see our available laminate products today! | environmental_science |
https://www.wvc.edu/news/GreenFest2011.aspx | 2023-05-29T13:06:59 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-23/segments/1685224644855.6/warc/CC-MAIN-20230529105815-20230529135815-00505.warc.gz | 0.927207 | 312 | CC-MAIN-2023-23 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-23__0__45099472 | en | WVC at Omak students sponsor Green Fest 2011 on April 22
The third annual Green Fest 2011, “Working on the World to Change,” will feature a variety of activities on sustainable living and environmental issues on Earth Day, Friday, April 22, in Omak. All of the activities are free and open to the public.
Activities take place on the Wenatchee Valley College (WVC) at Omak campus from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and include a morning fun run; presentations on bee keeping, plant graphing, composting and creative recycling; and a feature of Dirt! The Movie. The film is a documentary that uses animation, vignettes, personal accounts and story-telling to reveal man’s historical relationship with dirt.
Music and activities will continue at 5 p.m. at the Omak Civic League Park, with a performance by Ian Dobson’s Pan Leggo, a calypso band.
Participants may bring their eWaste to the festival to be recycled. eWaste includes televisions, computers, monitors, towers and laptops.
Green Fest is a family-friendly community event sponsored by the Associated Students of Wenatchee Valley College at Omak that celebrates greener/eco-friendly living and informs participants on ways they can live more in tune with nature and have fun doing it.
For more information about Green Fest 2011, contact Ebony at 509.846.3674. | environmental_science |
https://thewildrabbit.co.uk/environment-wild-rabbit-2/ | 2024-02-26T10:52:50 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474659.73/warc/CC-MAIN-20240226094435-20240226124435-00091.warc.gz | 0.951514 | 443 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__143149981 | en | The Wild Rabbit is part of the Daylesford estate – one of the most sustainable organic farms in the UK.
The principles that have guided our farm for 40 years are also at the heart of everything that we do at The Wild Rabbit – from the locally sourced, organic ingredients in our kitchens, to the handmade horsehair mattresses in our bedrooms.
Our restoration of The Wild Rabbit combined locally sourced natural materials with centuries old techniques, creating a long lasting environment with minimum impact to our surroundings.
Through thoughtful design choices, we have been able to remodel much of the building from reclaimed and recycled materials: oak boards were revealed and re appropriated; wattle and daub panelling was restored and re-rendered; original beams and joists were exposed and celebrated.
Our walls are plastered with natural lime and new surfaces have been created using reclaimed wood from trees fallen on the Daylesford estate.
In the kitchen, nothing is wasted and we have always been mindful of where we source our produce, using local organic ingredients where possible from growers, farmers and producers who share our sustainable values, as well as the Daylesford estate.
We are lucky to be surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscape in the country and we encourage our guests to explore the Daylesford estate and see first-hand the rich hedgerows, diverse wildlife and wild flower meadows that are the hallmarks of sustainable organic farming. Walking maps are available from reception and we have bikes for those looking to explore the local roads.
During the growing season, the flowers in our bar area and dining room are picked from the organic cutting garden at Daylesford farm. For the colder months, enjoy the warmth of our open fires, with logs brought from the farm where more trees are planted than harvested.
The names of our bedrooms have been inspired by animals found within a three mile walk from us – even the illusive wild boar are rumoured to roam deep in the Oddington Ashes.
In our bathrooms you will find the Bamford Bath & Body collection, made with naturally sourced and, wherever possible, certified organic ingredients. We kindly ask guests to hang towels after use to avoid unnecessary washing. | environmental_science |
https://tiruchirappalli.nic.in/nadp/ | 2022-07-02T21:38:27 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-27/segments/1656104204514.62/warc/CC-MAIN-20220702192528-20220702222528-00103.warc.gz | 0.864327 | 133 | CC-MAIN-2022-27 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-27__0__196560653 | en | II.NATIONAL AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (NADP)
- Under Onion Development Scheme, Rs. 20000 per hectare has been given as subsidy
- Assistance to Organic cultivation in Vegetables like Greens (Rs.2500), Tomato , Brinjal and Bhendi (Rs.3750)
- Establishment of Permanent Pandal system at Rs.2 lakh/Ha
- Establishment of Value chain in Vegetables.
- To impart eco-friendly pest management techniques, solar light trap, pheromone trap and yellow sticky traps have been distributed to farmers at subsidized rates. | environmental_science |
http://reforgedironworks.com/testimonial/amber-murray/ | 2021-04-22T16:14:34 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-17/segments/1618039594341.91/warc/CC-MAIN-20210422160833-20210422190833-00274.warc.gz | 0.967222 | 307 | CC-MAIN-2021-17 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-17__0__259682493 | en | I’m writing to sing the praises of your custom-made broadfork. I simply can’t believe I have managed my garden all these years without this tool! It has made my rows a consistent width, which I can now maintain by continued use of the broadfork in spring and fall. This will certainly lead me to attain my goal of no-or low-dig gardening in the near future. Furthermore, I have never used a tool that is as efficient as the broadfork in deep aeration and subsequent weed harvesting. As I live and garden in the deep south of Alberta, I am constantly waging battle not only with heavy clay soil, but also with the strenuous and resilient grass varieties that propagate through the use of underground runners. Using the broadfork allows me to break up the soil and get well underneath the network of roaming grass roots so I may pull them out with ease. I like having grass and clover in my pathways, as they contribute to soil structure, solidity and increased nematodes, but having to dig or edge the grass out of my rows was a major undertaking in the fall, especially now, as my field garden is nearly 5000 square feet. I have completed over a third of my garden preparation in the past weeks with the broadfork, and will be far ahead next spring, simply for having purchased this tool! I have included pictures of working one of my sections with the broadfork, from weeding to compost topdressing and mulching. Amazing! Thank you! | environmental_science |
https://ielts-master.com/ielts-reading-seed-bank-header-question/ | 2024-04-17T08:09:33 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817146.37/warc/CC-MAIN-20240417075330-20240417105330-00153.warc.gz | 0.925456 | 259 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__106119708 | en | Read the following paragraph from Newsela and choose the best heading for it.
Nestled in the peaceful grounds of Wakehurst Place, a country house near London, the bank is an ultimate insurance policy for the world’s wild plants. Its underground vault is worthy of James Bond to keep them safe. Kew aims to store seeds for 25 percent of the world’s plants by 2020, and is at 13 percent so far.
Of those in the freezer already, 1,800 species are from Madagascar. Botanists think some 6,000 of the island country’s 13,000 plants could successfully be dried and stored here. The other 7,000 are seeds, including those of palms from humid forests in the east of the country, which do not survive the drying and freezing process.
“It’s a race against time, picking these things up for the seed bank. It’s insurance against extinction,” said Stuart Cable, head of the Kew Madagascar Conservation Centre. He estimates that around 70 percent of Madagascar’s plants are endangered.
Which heading is the most appropriate?
A) Preserving Plants for the Future
B) Endangered Plants in Madagascar
C) Drying and Storing Seeds | environmental_science |
http://www.business2day.info/business/two-airlines-in-asia-ban-carrying-shark-fins-in-cargo.html | 2014-09-17T21:38:30 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2014-41/segments/1410657124607.22/warc/CC-MAIN-20140914011204-00052-ip-10-196-40-205.us-west-1.compute.internal.warc.gz | 0.97071 | 174 | CC-MAIN-2014-41 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2014-41__0__118585671 | en | Seoul, South Korea (4E) – Korean Air and Asiana have banned shark fin from their cargo flights as part of a growing global campaign.
Korean Air, which flies to 45 countries, said in a statement that it had stopped shipping shark fin from June 10.
“Korean Air has joined a campaign to protect an ecological system by imposing a complete ban on the shipment of shark fin,” the statement said.
Asiana, the country’s second largest airline, said it was doing the same.
Global shark populations have been decimated by the trade. Humans kill about 100 million sharks each year, mostly for their fins, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, which says 90 percent have disappeared over the past 100 years.
There are no comments yet. Why not be the first to speak your mind. | environmental_science |
https://ahobproject.org/AHOBI/isotopes.htm | 2024-02-28T18:02:05 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474744.31/warc/CC-MAIN-20240228175828-20240228205828-00667.warc.gz | 0.919507 | 926 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__141305405 | en | Stable isotope analysis for climate and palaeodietary reconstruction
Stable isotope analysis is an integral part of the AHOB program, providing information on past environments and mapping changing faunal and hominid dietary adaptations through time. Stable isotope analyses is at an exciting stage in it's development, allowing fairly routine measurements of carbon and nitrogen in collagen for important dietary information, as well as providing the promise of new information from isotopes of other elements in bone, such as oxygen. The AHOB project is an ideal framework in which to apply the more established areas of isotope analysis as well as help develop these new areas.
The AHOB project will uniquely provide a very large dataset of new stable isotope measurements of oxygen, carbon and nitrogen in faunal and hominid remains. The data produced from this project will significantly increase the dataset of stable isotope values for the UK.
(1) Stable isotope analysis of oxygen, for climate reconstruction
Bone mineral and dental enamel oxygen isotope values reflect the oxygen isotope values of the water that a mammal consumes. If that mammal is migratory between climatic zones that have very different oxygen isotope ratios then the different values may be recorded in the bone or enamel. Therefore, oxygen isotopes have the potential to identify migrating species or humans. For example, if reindeer travel great distances between distinct climatic zones in a year their antlers may record the different O isotope values of the different regions. If a human child lived in one climatic zone, and then moved as an adult to another, the tooth O isotope values will reflect childhood location, and the bone will indicate adult locality.
A more common use of O isotopes, largely from enamel, is to indicate the changing climate in a specific region, as similar species who are known to be non-migratory will record the current climate in their enamel, and in a sequence from the same area these values can be compared with enamel O isotope values of the same or similar non-migratory species from earlier or later contexts to indicate how the climate has changed.
There are many exciting possibilities with oxygen isotopes of bone and enamel, but there are also serious concerns over contamination of bone and enamel by soil and groundwater oxygen. Generally, enamel has been shown to be much more immune to contamination than bone, but this is a potential problem that needs to be addressed. There are ways to design the experiments to address the archaeological and palaeoenvironmental questions of interest, as well as indicate if diagenesis and contamination of the samples has occurred.
Problems with possible contamination are one of the main reasons for exploring the use of oxygen isotopes in bone collagen, as collagen is a lot more stable and less prone to contamination (see above). Although oxygen is also present in collagen, collagen oxygen isotope ratios have never been measured. This is due to a number of technical factors, but recent advances in mass spectrometry now open up this possibility.
(2) Stable isotope analysis of carbon and nitrogen for climate and palaeodietary reconstruction
From bone and tooth collagen we can routinely obtain carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values, which tells us mainly about the past diets of humans and fauna. Collagen likely reflects the isotope values of dietary protein over the long term (10 years or so, depending in the bone element). The carbon isotope measurements will tell us mainly about the amount of protein in the diets from terrestrial vs. marine ecosystems while the nitrogen isotopes reflect the trophic level of the protein that has been consumed, and within a single ecosystem can identify herbivores and carnivores, and the diets of omnivores, such as hominids. Members of the AHOB team have used carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values to demonstrate that late Upper Palaeolithic humans from Gough's and Sun Hole caves had a predominately animal protein based diet.
The use of C and N isotopes in bone collagen may be a very important new development in palaeoclimatic reconstruction if bone can provide robust environmental signals in areas where there is a good faunal sequence, but not suitable lake or marine sediment sequences. Additionally the isotope climate signal from these fauna can be linked in with faunal abundance studies and biostratigraphy. But, we need a great deal more data to realise the environmental reconstruction possibilities of bone collagen C and N isotopes, and the AHOB can provide this. | environmental_science |
https://best-mp3-music-downloads.com/2023/09/20/nuclear-testing-and-radiocarbon-dating-unveiling-the-secrets-of-the-past/ | 2023-12-05T01:52:01 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100540.62/warc/CC-MAIN-20231205010358-20231205040358-00238.warc.gz | 0.939349 | 1,383 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__161901612 | en | Nuclear testing during the mid-20th century had a profound impact on the environment and the world at large. While the detonation of atomic bombs led to technological advancements and geopolitical shifts, it also left behind a unique and enduring legacy – artifacts that bear witness to this tumultuous period in history. The age of these artifacts can be accurately determined using radiocarbon dating, a powerful scientific tool that allows scientists to trace the presence of carbon-14 in organic materials.
Radiocarbon dating, also known as carbon dating, is a technique based on the radioactive decay of the isotope carbon-14. This isotope is formed in the upper atmosphere through the bombardment of nitrogen atoms by cosmic rays. Plants and animals acquire carbon-14 through their diet or by breathing, and this radioactive carbon is then incorporated into their tissues. By measuring the ratio of carbon-14 to stable carbon isotopes, scientists can estimate the age of organic materials with remarkable accuracy.
Due to the exponential decay of carbon-14, this dating method is most effective for materials with ages ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands of years old. However, the influx of radioactive carbon caused by nuclear testing in the mid-20th century has significantly impacted the carbon-14 levels in the atmosphere. Consequently, artifacts produced after this period – such as lacquers, paints, and textiles – exhibit elevated levels of carbon-14, which can be used to pinpoint their true age.
This groundbreaking application of radiocarbon dating has not only shed light on the age of atomic bomb test artifacts but also provided valuable insights into human activities during this era. By analyzing the changes in carbon-14 levels, scientists have been able to track the distribution of nuclear fallout worldwide and better understand the long-term effects of nuclear testing on the environment and human health.
As nuclear testing continues to have far-reaching consequences, the use of radiocarbon dating is helping uncover the secrets of this pivotal period in history. Through the precise determination of artifact age, scientists are piecing together the puzzle of the atomic age and gaining a deeper understanding of its impact on our world.
The Science Behind Nuclear Testing Radiocarbon Dating
Radiocarbon dating is a powerful technique used in archaeology and other scientific fields to determine the age of ancient artifacts and organic remains. By measuring the amount of carbon-14 remaining in a sample, scientists can calculate how long ago the organism or object died or was formed.
How Carbon-14 is Formed
Carbon-14 is a naturally occurring isotope of carbon, and it is constantly being formed in the Earth’s atmosphere. When cosmic rays from the sun collide with atoms in the atmosphere, they create a shower of high-energy neutrons. Some of these neutrons collide with nitrogen-14 atoms, causing them to lose a proton and gain a neutron. This transformation turns nitrogen-14 into carbon-14.
The Half-Life of Carbon-14
Carbon-14 is radioactive, meaning it is constantly decaying over time. It has a half-life of about 5,730 years, which means that after this time, only half of the original amount of carbon-14 in a sample will remain. By measuring the ratio of carbon-14 to carbon-12 in a sample and comparing it to known ratios in the atmosphere, scientists can determine its age.
The half-life of carbon-14 is the key to radiocarbon dating because it allows scientists to accurately determine the age of an object up to about 50,000 years old. Beyond this point, there is not enough carbon-14 left to accurately measure, so other dating methods must be used.
Nuclear Testing and Radiocarbon Dating
The advent of nuclear testing in the mid-20th century has had a significant impact on radiocarbon dating. Nuclear detonations release a vast amount of high-energy neutrons, which can react with nitrogen-14 in the atmosphere to create carbon-14. This artificial increase in carbon-14 levels, known as the “bomb effect,” has made it challenging to determine the age of samples from the post-1950s era.
However, this same bomb effect has also provided a unique opportunity for scientists to study the impact of nuclear testing. By analyzing artifacts and organic materials from this period, scientists can precisely date them and gain valuable insights into the history and effects of nuclear weapons testing.
Radiocarbon dating has revolutionized our understanding of the past and continues to be an essential tool in fields such as archaeology, geology, and forensics. The science behind nuclear testing radiocarbon dating allows us to uncover the age of atomic bomb test artifacts and shed light on the history of this significant era in human history.
What is radiocarbon dating?
Radiocarbon dating is a method used to determine the age of organic materials based on the decay of carbon-14 isotopes.
How does radiocarbon dating work?
Radiocarbon dating works by measuring the amount of carbon-14 isotopes in a sample and comparing it to the known decay rate of carbon-14.
What can be dated using radiocarbon dating?
Radiocarbon dating can be used to date organic materials, such as archaeological artifacts, bones, and charcoal.
Why is nuclear testing important for radiocarbon dating?
Nuclear testing in the mid-20th century released a large amount of carbon-14 into the atmosphere, which can be used to calibrate radiocarbon dating methods.
How did nuclear testing affect radiocarbon dating?
Nuclear testing increased the levels of carbon-14 in the atmosphere, causing a “spike” in radiocarbon dating results during the time period of atomic bomb testing.
How does radiocarbon dating work?
Radiocarbon dating works by measuring the amount of carbon-14 present in a sample. Carbon-14 is a radioactive isotope of carbon that is continually produced in the Earth’s atmosphere. When an organism dies, it no longer takes in carbon-14, and the amount of carbon-14 in its remains gradually decreases over time. By measuring the ratio of carbon-14 to carbon-12 in a sample, scientists can determine its age.
What role did nuclear testing play in radiocarbon dating?
Nuclear testing in the 1950s and 1960s significantly increased the amount of carbon-14 in the atmosphere. This sudden influx of carbon-14 impacted the accuracy of radiocarbon dating, as it made objects from this time period appear much younger than they actually were. By studying the changes in carbon-14 levels caused by nuclear testing, scientists can now correct for this “bomb carbon” and obtain more accurate dates for objects. | environmental_science |
http://hln.thefirstsourcemedia.com/like-flint-water-in-californias-central-valley-unsafe-causing-health-problems-fox-news-latino/ | 2017-11-18T02:52:04 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-47/segments/1510934804518.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20171118021803-20171118041803-00345.warc.gz | 0.956093 | 319 | CC-MAIN-2017-47 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2017-47__0__45738273 | en | Like Flint, water in California’s Central Valley unsafe, causing health problems | Fox News Latino
The population of the Central Valley, a basin surrounded by mountains that once offered hope to migrants like the fictional Joads in the “The Grapes of Wrath,” today is about 80 percent Latino, and 92 percent of the migrant farm workers in the Valley are Latino.
Much of fruits and vegetables consumed in the U.S. are grown here, and the soil has been decimated by agricultural activity – overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, manure from livestock. One result is a toxic soup of nitrates in the area’s drinking water.
When pumped up into people’s homes, the nitrates are so dangerous that people are known to get rashes when they shower. The presence of nitrates in the water supply also has been linked to “blue baby syndrome,” which is caused by the decreased ability of blood to carry oxygen – one of the most common causes is nitrate in drinking water.
“Generations of people who live here know not to drink the water,” Susana De Anda, a clean-water advocate and the co-executive director and co-founder of the Community Water Center NGO, told Fox News Latino.
While the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, made headlines around the country when the city’s leaders exposed residents to a tainted water supply for almost two years, families living in the Central Valley of California have been struggling without clean drinking water for decades. | environmental_science |
https://www.pirategoldcoins.com/fishfossilwallpirategoldcoinstreasuresofthejurassic-215342-765424-517296-612380-134262.html | 2023-09-26T12:20:40 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-40/segments/1695233510208.72/warc/CC-MAIN-20230926111439-20230926141439-00780.warc.gz | 0.888242 | 287 | CC-MAIN-2023-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-40__0__158726851 | en | Pirate Gold Coins: Treasures of the Jurassic - Fish Fossil Wall Display
Diplomystus is an extinct genus of freshwater clupeomorph fish distantly related to modern-day extant herrings, alewives, and sardines. The genus was first named and described by Edward Drinker Cope in 1877. There are seven species of Diplomystus: D. dentatus (Cope, 1877), D. birdii, D. dubetreiti, D. shengliensis (Chang 1983), D. kokuraensis (Uyeno 1979), D. primotinus (Uyeno 1979), and D. altiformis. D. dentatus (Cope, 1877) is well known from lower Eocene deposits from the Green River Formation in Wyoming. Specimens range from larval size to 65 cm and are commonly found in close association with the extinct herring Knightia sp. The Green River Formation is the remnant of a large lake whose mud would eventually be transformed into soft calcite-bearing shale. D. kokuraensis (Uyeno 1979), D. primotinus (Uyeno 1979), and D. altiformis were dominant members of an Early Cretaceous lake fauna (the "Diplomystus-Wakinoichthys Fauna") in what is now Japan and Korea. | environmental_science |
https://ultimatemotorcycling.com/2014/04/21/ama-epa-acknowledges-ethanol-damages-engines/ | 2024-04-20T12:58:11 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817650.14/warc/CC-MAIN-20240420122043-20240420152043-00298.warc.gz | 0.927133 | 588 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__8090570 | en | The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has publicly acknowledged that ethanol in gasoline can damage internal combustion engines by increasing exhaust temperatures and indirectly causing component failures, the American Motorcyclist Association reports.
The EPA statements are found in a rule proposal issued by the Federal Trade Commission regarding a new label for pumps that supply fuel blends high in ethanol.
According to the EPA, “[e]thanol impacts motor vehicles in two primary ways. First … ethanol enleans the [air/fuel] ratio (increases the proportion of oxygen relative to hydrocarbons) which can lead to increased exhaust gas temperatures and potentially increase incremental deterioration of emission control hardware and performance over time, possibly causing catalyst failure. Second, ethanol can cause materials compatibility issues, which may lead to other component failures.
“In motorcycles and nonroad products [using E15 and higher ethanol blends], EPA raised engine-failure concerns from overheating.”
These EPA statements, contained in the FTC document, back the long-held position of the AMA.
“The American Motorcyclist Association has fought the distribution of E15 fuel blends in an effort to protect motorcycle and all-terrain vehicles from the damage that ethanol causes,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations. “Now the EPA acknowledges that ethanol itself is harmful to emissions hardware and other components on all motor vehicles. It is time for the federal government to pause, take a hard look at this product and change its entire approach to ethanol in fuels.”
E15 is a gasoline formulation that contains up to 15 percent ethanol by volume.
None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and ATVs currently in operation can use fuels with blends higher than 10 percent ethanol. Doing so could void the manufacturer’s warranty, in addition to causing damage to the vehicle.
The AMA applauded the EPA’s decision in its proposed rule to roll back the requirement for wider distribution and use of E15 under its Renewable Fuel Standard.
The AMA also is concerned about the continued availability of E10 blends and E0 fuels — gasoline with zero ethanol content — if E15 is allowed to permeate the marketplace.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com. | environmental_science |
https://sdmd2045.ctu.edu.vn/en/outstanding-topics/socioeconomic/76-can-tho-urban-flooding-directing-perspectives-and-response-practices | 2023-06-03T14:38:18 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-23/segments/1685224649293.44/warc/CC-MAIN-20230603133129-20230603163129-00534.warc.gz | 0.950692 | 261 | CC-MAIN-2023-23 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-23__0__21887258 | en | Cities in Vietnam are developing quite rapidly in the process of industrialization - modernization, and it is important in the development of the nation. However, these cities are vulnerable to risks posed by climate change, typically flooding due to their sensitive urban locations, limited governance, and uncontrolled urbanization stability. Given the current situation of flood disasters in recent years, this paper is to find out the mechanisms of urban disaster risk management through the implementation of resolutions, policy documents, and development programs from the central government, and internationally on how the local government responds to new flooding in the city. The results showed that the disaster risk management mechanism is consensus, responsibility, and power. The mechanism meets the needs and aspirations of actors to solve the problems in the best ways that the local people and the community face. Can Tho City has implemented well and effective disaster risk action programs, and proactively transform programs into the right local characteristics. The techniques used include observation, notes, interviews with local people and actors, and secondary data. The city-specific sites selected in the study include parts with varying degrees and causes of flooding as well as representative urbanized, highly urbanized, and peri-urban areas.
Keywords: Can Tho, Mekong Delta, policy enforcement, practical response, urban flooding. | environmental_science |
https://concrete-consultancy.co.uk/services/material-testing/ | 2024-04-14T00:26:04 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296816863.40/warc/CC-MAIN-20240414002233-20240414032233-00790.warc.gz | 0.935723 | 291 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__161485829 | en | Steel embedded in good quality concrete is protected by the high alkalinity pore water, which, in the presence of oxygen passivates the steel. The loss of alkalinity due to carbonation of the concrete or the penetration of chloride ions arising from marine or de-icing salts can destroy the passive film. In the presence of moisture and oxygen corrosion of the steel occurs. A characteristic feature of the corrosion of steel within concrete is the formation of macro cells; that is the coexistence of two areas of different electric potential appearing on the same steel surface. This forms a short-circuited galvanic cell, with the corroding area as the anode and the passive area the cathode. The current flow in the concrete is accompanied by an electric field which can be measured at the concrete surface, resulting in equipotential lines that allow the location of the most active corrosion to be identified by the most negative potentials. This is the basis for potential mapping which has become a technique applied to the inspection of reinforced concrete structures and detailed within ASTM C876–09. According to the ASTM method, corrosion can only be identified with 95% certainty at potentials more negative than -350 mV. Experience has shown, however, that passive structures tend to show values more positive than -200 mV and often positive potentials. Potentials more negative than -200 mV may be an indicator of the onset of corrosion. | environmental_science |
https://monthlyrituals.com/pages/practices | 2024-02-22T13:55:11 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473819.62/warc/CC-MAIN-20240222125841-20240222155841-00884.warc.gz | 0.928285 | 669 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__109916548 | en | Our uncompromising commitment to sustainability of people and planet is inspired by our effort to embody sustainability of self, in which ritualistic living and cyclical wellbeing enable us to support our vessels.
LOW WASTE, LOW IMPACT
Just as we work to honor the natural cycles of our bodies, we work to honor the cycles of the planet, in which all matter that is created is designed to be reused, regenerated, or transformed. We embody a circular system, rather than a linear system, in the production of our botanical blends. For each product element, the entire lifecycle is considered, from extraction to end of use. To this end, Monthly Rituals only sources materials that can be reused, repurposed, or broken down and given back to Earth.
All of our packaging materials are paper-based, high-recycled content, Forest Stewardship Council certified, and compostable. We never line our boxes with plastic and we always use plant-based inks. The boxes used to carry the botanical blends to you are made in-house locally in California and are created using 100% post consumer recycled cardboard.
The vessels used for Monthly Rituals blends were selected for their form, function, and sustainability. Our bottles are made exclusively from glass, which can be reused and recycled infinitely.
We exclusively source organic and wild-crafted botanicals for our herbal blends. One-fourth of our herbs, oils, and florals are wild-crafted, meaning they are foraged directly from their native source. The rest are GOTS certified organic. We recognize the value of ensuring that the practices used in cultivating our botanicals are rooted in regenerative farming practices.
One of our primary botanical partners, Mountain Rose Herbs, is a leader in sustainability. Mountain Rose Herbs is Fair Trade certified, Zero Waste certified, and runs their operations in a LEED certified facility powered by 100% renewable energy. Our botanicals are sourced from all over the planet –– a third from North America, a fifth from Asia, a fifth from Europe, and the remaining from Africa and South America. While deriving the plants from their native region ensures maximum efficacy and potency, we recognize that doing so adds to the burden of global carbon emissions. To the end of mitigating our impact, we are working on integrating a carbon offset program that centers projects in locations where our beloved botanicals are derived.
Monthly Rituals provides accessible and inclusive informational resources for all people who menstruate. We recognize the inequities that exist regarding access to menstrual care and education. Beyond doing our part to address accessibility to menstrual care, Monthly Rituals challenges current structures that govern the kind of menstrual care available to people, and just as importantly, the way in which we discuss menstruation. Rather than pathologizing menstruation, we offer a way of thinking that recognizes the positive offerings that our inner hormonal shifts can provide.
We strive to provide open, honest, and accessible information regarding our practices, product information, and sourcing. As a small company, we are constantly at work to expand and improve our sustainability initiatives. If you have any questions regarding our products or practices, send inquiries to our Director of Sustainability, [email protected]. | environmental_science |
https://www.schubert.group/en/sustainability.html | 2022-01-23T19:06:14 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-05/segments/1642320304309.5/warc/CC-MAIN-20220123172206-20220123202206-00161.warc.gz | 0.938152 | 1,160 | CC-MAIN-2022-05 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-05__0__238062317 | en | Sustainability as a “nice to have” – that was yesterday. In the highly competitive consumer goods market, sustainable packaging represents a formidable competitive advantage. It is anticipated that this development will accelerate significantly in the coming years. Sustainable packaging alone will then no longer suffice. Manufacturers of food, beverages, pharmaceuticals or cosmetics need packaging experts who can support this fundamental shift with effective and lasting solutions. With Schubert, they have a partner who they can rely on with one hundred percent confidence. Schubert, as a responsible corporate citizen, has committed itself to the 17 UNESCO goals of sustainability. Behind this are social, ecological and economic values such as growth and high-quality jobs, better environmental and climate protection, as well as an innovative economy based on partnership.
As a frontrunner and foremost driver of innovation, Schubert draws on decades of experience in the packaging industry and provides a level of expertise that is second to none. The combination of modular and flexible packaging machines, unique technologies and comprehensive consulting expertise delivers solutions that are effective both in the short and the long term. This means that consumer goods manufacturers can easily manage new, resource-saving packaging for many years to come. At the same time, they can position themselves in the market as sustainable, future-oriented companies that live up to their responsibility towards people and the environment.
The consumption of resources and the management of our environment affect people all over the world. Many consumers are now more sensitised to the issue and have become more critical when shopping. They are looking more closely at manufacturing processes and are increasingly opting for environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging. However, this doesn’t mean that the product should be more expensive. How can sustainability and economic efficiency in packaging be reconciled? As an expert who has been working with cardboard as a recycling material for over 50 years, Schubert has sound answers to these issues.
The modular machine concept and the consistent use of robotics provide a decisive advantage. Schubert’s modular system is so flexible that packaging machines can be tailored precisely and without redundant components to the customer’s desired requirements. Moreover, new formats can also be implemented in the machines at a later date. This even applies to the switch to more sustainable packaging materials: Simple substitutions such as cardboard trays instead of plastic trays can be carried out in an existing Schubert line without any major outlay.
The more reliable the packaging process is and the more efficient the use of packaging material, the more sustainable the entire packaging becomes. Economic efficiency and sustainability go hand in hand here. Schubert makes this potential available to its customers on request for every machine – with its in-house packaging development. In collaboration with the development department, manufacturers can optimise their packaging in such a manner that they benefit in several ways. This even extends to more sustainable logistics if one more carton fits on the pallet afterwards.
With the expertise provided by Schubert Consulting, the topic of sustainability can be analysed and optimised along the entire chain – from the use of raw materials all the way to the consumer. The experienced consultants determine the most suitable materials based on an integrated processing approach, then develop packaging, plan processes and implement them on the most fitting packaging machines. From a strategic point of view, it is advisable to seek advice at an early planning stage of the project. This is the point at which all possibilities for sustainable change are still entirely open.
As a partner for sustainability, Schubert is ideally positioned to optimise customers’ processes along the entire chain from raw materials, packaging and logistics to recycling. This is based on the five Rs – the five principles of waste prevention.
Elimination of unnecessary and unsustainable packaging materials
Clever packaging solutions for less material usage and fewer truck transport trips
Convertible packaging machines
Recyclable and conventional materials in one system
The resource-saving packaging chain from A to Z
This flow-wrapping machine from Schubert processes conventional composite films and plastic trays as well as sustainable cardboard trays, mono films and paper-based films.
- Integrative process analysis along the entire chain with the specialists at Schubert-Consulting.
- Advice and support in packaging development from our specialists in the material areas of cardboard, paper and plastics.
- Modular, highly flexible packaging machines that can be retrofitted and converted at any time – thanks to the following:
- In-house robot technology (since 1981)
- In-house image processing technology (since 1985)
- In-house packaging machine control VMS (since 1996)
- The introduction of Transmodul as a seamless connection of process steps (the world’s first transport robot in packaging machines in 2009)
- Machine technology without control cabinets since 2014
- Changeable tools (we build or 3D print close to 6500 format parts and tools per year)
- Use of 3D printing technology since 2015, with some 100,000 3D printed parts per year. The PARTBOX streaming platform for customers to print, for example format parts, themselves.
Sustainable alternatives can be used wherever packaging is needed for sale to consumers or for transport to retailers. Schubert has implemented numerous solutions for food, confectionery and beverages in particular. Sustainable packaging is also used in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
Ask us specific questions about your project, we will advise you! Please send us an explanatory sketch or a picture with your enquiry. Our experts will be happy to help you at a personal appointment. | environmental_science |
https://proofpudding.com/sustainability/ | 2021-04-10T11:21:49 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-17/segments/1618038056869.3/warc/CC-MAIN-20210410105831-20210410135831-00501.warc.gz | 0.900446 | 324 | CC-MAIN-2021-17 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-17__0__173577317 | en | We’ve always been green!
Proof of the Pudding is committed to environmental and social responsibility. It’s our pleasure to create events in ways that conserve natural resources and protect our environment. With Proof of the Pudding, you can have exceptional, ecologically responsible events without sacrificing style.
We’ve always been about the food
Our Corporate Executive Chef, Vagn Nielsen, focuses on fresh, local farm-to-plate fruits and vegetables, sustainable seafood and natural and organic meats. It’s what makes our Culinary Team cook!
The proof green team
Everyone at Proof of the Pudding contributes to increase our efficiency and reduce our impact on the environment, in ways both big and small. Here is our Green “Punch List” that we take care of:
- Recycle & Compost whenever possible
- Do not use Styrofoam
- Use low flow spray valves in the kitchen for water conservation
- Only use recycled & chlorine-free paper
- Use energy saving light bulbs
- Use GRA-Endorsed Sterno Fuel
- Work with printers who are dedicated to supporting the environment and use recycled and FSC certified paper, soy inks and eco-conscious printing processes
- Offer biodegradable disposables made with 100%
- pre-consumer waste recycled paper
- Print on 100% post-consumer recycled paper
- Work with the U.S. Green Building Council
- Recycle our used cooking oil
- Educate clients and employees on ways to make an event eco-friendly | environmental_science |
https://www.usma.edu/gene/SitePages/Curriculum.aspx | 2018-08-21T00:44:13 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-34/segments/1534221217901.91/warc/CC-MAIN-20180820234831-20180821014831-00383.warc.gz | 0.939233 | 439 | CC-MAIN-2018-34 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2018-34__0__179522823 | en | We offer studies in the geographic, environmental and geospatial disciplines that have unquestionable relevance for our Army and nation. The overarching theme is to better understand the world in which we live. We offer a diverse group of majors and honors programs, which prepare cadets for service in the Army and encourage a lifetime of intellectual growth. These include:
- Geography: the study of people, the natural environment, and their interaction. Three tracks of study available.
Environmental Science: a broad, integrative science-based study of how humans affect the planet with the goal of creating a sustainable future for all.
Environmental Engineering: the application of science and engineering principles to minimize the adverse effects of human activities on the environment and to protect human health by providing clean air and clean water.
Geospatial Information Science: the study of the integration and analysis of geospatial data including drone and satellite imagery, GPS, and map intelligence information.
Our majors and honors programs will prepare cadets for lifelong professions that are personally rewarding and important to our nation. Despite the continual changes in our Army and throughout the world, there are several constants that continue to serve as guideposts for our profession:
Understanding weather and terrain will always be among the keys to victory in battle and success during other military operations.
Understanding other people is necessary to preserve peace.
Understanding our Earth is critical for our future health and well-being.
These imperatives describe what we in the Department of Geography and Environmental Engineering offer to cadets, first in our core course in physical geography and continuing with our exciting majors, honors programs, and environmental engineering sequence. In some respects, our mission is the same as every academic department at West Point: to prepare cadets for a career in the Army and a lifetime of service to the nation. Each academic course has the objective of developing self-learners, problem solvers, and critical thinkers; all of which are attributes critical for success as a leader in the Army.
Department Course Catalogs
Want to find detailed information about our department, its programs, and its people? Just click on the cover page of the appropriate USMA class year. | environmental_science |
https://forumsclub.com/profile/13924-tamara-henson/content/page/8/?all_activity=1 | 2021-12-06T06:13:38 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-49/segments/1637964363290.39/warc/CC-MAIN-20211206042636-20211206072636-00238.warc.gz | 0.830442 | 337 | CC-MAIN-2021-49 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-49__0__161273406 | en | Creator/Designer/Author: Laura 'Tamara' Henson
Original Creator: Blue Fang
Bugs/Information/Notes: This pack contains six wolves belonging to both North American species and a hack to update the zoopedia of the Gray Wolf. The hack gives the gray wolf the correct scientific name and explains the recent separation of the eastern gray wolf from the Canis lupus species and it's placement in C. rufus. The wolves included are the Eastern red wolf (what used to be C. lupus. lycaon with a more correct model and coloration), the Missisippi red wolf (the most well known subspecies), the now extinct Texas Red and Florida Black Wolf (both red wolf subspecies), the Great Plains Lobo and the Rocky Mountain Brown Wolf (two extinct gray wolf subspecies).
There are no bugs that I have found.
Requirements: ZT2, ES, AA, & EA
The Missisippi Red Wolf, the only surviving red wolf subspecies in the United States, Critically Endangered!
The Texas Red Wolf, extinct since 1970
The Florida Black Wolf, the most distinctive red wolf subspecies, extinct since 1917
The Eastern Red Wolf, a critically endangered Canadian subspecies long confused with the Gray wolf.
The Great Plains Lobo, the white wolf of the old west, extinct since 1926.
The Rocky Mountain Brown Wolf, a group of similar wolves with questionable classification that inhabited the southwestern states of the USA, extinct since the 1950s. | environmental_science |
https://www.ilme.fi/en/reference/blastr-green-steel/ | 2023-10-01T04:39:01 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-40/segments/1695233510781.66/warc/CC-MAIN-20231001041719-20231001071719-00283.warc.gz | 0.944105 | 739 | CC-MAIN-2023-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-40__0__28808168 | en | Blastr Green SteelGreen transition proceeds with the right written and visual communications
Norwegian company Blastr Green Steel is in the process of establishing green steel production in Finland. The project is of the largest scale in the industry. Due to the low-carbon production of steel, the project will significantly advance the green transformation.
Our customers’ challenge was to 1. crystallize the benefits of the project both in Finland and worldwide for a launch video, 2. to communicate the project in a positive and informative way, and 3. to grow the publicity and good image of the project in the Nordic countries. The diversity, size and schedule made the challenge both difficult but also interesting.
ILME designed and scripted the concept video for the project, and crystallized the core messages for a second video that was used in the project launch and in later promotions. With the help of the videos, the different stages, goals and benefits of the project and the strong message of the green transition got the positive coverage it deserved with the greater audience.
The design process began with a creative meeting, in which the needs and goals for the project were established. In the same meeting, the decision to make a concept video was made. According to the base understanding, the true importance, benefits and most relevant parts of the project were clarified. This made it easy to turn them into a story and a script.
We designed the messaging, imagery, script and video structure together with Blastr Green Steel representatives and Fama Consulting Oy Ltd. The 3D animation was done by Artpix Oy. Tight co-operation between different bodies made sure that the project was concluded as planned, in time.
The process has been very easy and professional. It has been a joy to work with you!
Big thanks to the whole team for great work on a tight schedule! You immediately got what the whole project is about, and how and with what content the whole thing is taken forward. The process has been very easy and professional. It has been a joy to work with you!
Minna Sundelin, Fama Consulting Ltd
The Blastr Green Steel project has garnered a lot of attention both in domestic and international medias.
The Blastr Green Steel project has garnered a lot of attention both in domestic and international medias. The visual and informative video has helped make the project known to target audiences both during the launch and along the project proceeding.
The messages crystallized by ILME are fit for a longer time frame. Alongside the messages, the visualizations emphasize the project’s meaning for Finland and for the Green Transition worldwide.
- the messaging for the project launch
- 3D-animated video: planning and script in English and Finnish
- storyboard and visualization of the project video
Hashtags: #decarbonizedsteel #greentransition #challengingsteelindustry
Blastr Green Steel
Blastr Green Steel focuses on lowering carbon dioxide emissions in the value chain of steel by developing local, sustainable, and scalable steel production value chains. Blastr plans to cut 95 percent of the CO2 emissions of its end products compared to traditional methods by using local materials, fossil free energy and by utilizing circular economy principles in the whole value chain.
The company is establishing a pellet factory in Norway as well as a green steel factory and integrated hydrogen production facility in Finland. The company is expected to grow into one of the biggest industrial start-ups in the Nordics. Established in 2021, Blastr is a part of Vanir Green Industries investment company. | environmental_science |
http://myblogclick.com/82-unknown-facts-antarctica/ | 2018-11-13T00:08:12 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-47/segments/1542039741176.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20181113000225-20181113022225-00264.warc.gz | 0.908714 | 1,716 | CC-MAIN-2018-47 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2018-47__0__217954817 | en | Hello Friends, welcome to myblogclick. Today I am sharing with you Antarctica unknown facts.
It is the fifth largest continent of this planet. It is also the home to South Pole. It has several unknown, amazing facts.
This continent is governed by Antarctica Treaty. Following are the members of this treaty.
Papua New Guinea
United States of America
- It is fifth largest continent in terms of area in the world.
- It covers 5.405 million square miles lard area.
- There are no countries in Antarctica. It is governed by the Antarctic Treaty.
- It was signed on 1st December 1959 and officially entered into force on 23rd June 1961.
- The Secretariat headquarter of Antarctica Treaty is located in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- It is the largest desert in the world.
- It is the world’s southernmost continent.
- It is the coldest, windiest, highest and driest continent in the world.
- It is one and half times the size of the United States of America.
- There are no indigenous populations of people on Antarctica.
- It lies almost entirely within Antarctic Circle, which is at about 66 degrees south latitude.
- It contains geographic South Pole.
- It is surrounded by the Southern Ocean.
- It is nearly double the size of Australia.
- It is almost 1.3 times as large as Europe.
- About 98% of Antarctica is covered by ice.
- The average thickness of ice in Antarctica is 6,200 feet.
- The name Antarctica came from the Greek word ‘Antarktikos’ which means ‘opposite to the north’.
- Around 90% of the ice on Earth is found in Antarctica.
- Almost 0.4% of Antarctica is not covered by ice.
- It is losing 159 billion tons of ice per year.
- Four and a half million years ago, it was warm and covered in palm trees.
- It is home to the coldest place on Earth, is called East Antarctica Plateau where temperatures can dip below -133.6 degrees Fahrenheit or -96 degrees Celsius on a clear winter night.
- The lowest temperature ever recorded in Antarctica is -89.2 degrees Celsius or -128.6 degrees Fahrenheit on 21st July 1983.
- The highest temperature ever recorded in Antarctica is 17.5 degrees Celsius or 63.5 degrees Fahrenheit on 24th March 2015.
- -50 degrees Celsius is the average annual temperature in Antarctica.
- It is only continent on Earth that has no time zone.
- Mount Vinson (4,897 meters or 16,066 feet) is the highest peak in Antarctica.
- It is home to 70% of World’s fresh water.
- The Onyx River is the longest river in Antarctica.
- Interestingly, there are no fish in the Onyx River.
- Norwegian explorer Amundsen was the first human to reach the South Pole on 14th December 1911.
- It is the only continent without reptiles.
- Lake Vostok is the largest lake in Antarctica.
- Lake Vostok is about the size of Lake Ontario.
- It has only two ATM.
- Mount Erebus is the world’s southernmost active volcano, is located in Antarctica.
- The Transantarctic Mountains (3,500 kilometers) divided the Antarctica into East and west sections.
- The Mount Kirkpatrick (2,601 meters or 8,533 feet) is the highest pick of the Transantarctic Mountains.
- There are more than 70 lakes in Antarctica.
- We cannot work in Antarctica unless our wisdom teeth and appendix are removed.
- Belgica Antarctica is the largest land animal in Antarctica which is an insect.
- The Dry Valleys is the driest place on Earth, is located in Antarctica. It has seen no rain for almost 2 million years. It makes up 4800 square kilometers area without water, ice or snow.
- Blood Falls is a waterfall in Antarctica that runs red as blood.
- Chile has a civilian town in Antarctica, is called Villa Las Estrellas.
- Husky dogs have been banned in Antarctica since 1994.
- It is home to ice fish which have no red pigment (hemoglobin) in their blood to carry oxygen around.
- During the winter almost 40,000 square miles ice begins to expand per day, which is adding up to an extra 20 million square kilometers of ice around the land mass.
- The Antarctica ice sheet is the largest single mass of ice in the world.
- About 1,150 species of fungi have been recorded from Antarctica.
- 90% of all meteorites even found have come from Antarctica.
- The speed of wind can reach 200 miles per hour or 320 kilometers per hour in some places of Antarctica.
- The hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica is double the size of Europe.
- If its ice sheets melted, the world’s oceans would rise by 60 to 65 meters.
- The world’s largest wind driven current is called circumpolar current which circles clockwise around Antarctica.
- According to Antarctica Treaty, there are seven countries are claiming their territorial claims to parts of Antarctica. These are Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway and the United Kingdom.
- Argentina claims 965,597 square kilometers area in Antarctica.
- Australia claims 5.8 million square kilometers in Antarctica.
- Ants have not found in Antarctica.
- There are seven churches in Antarctica.
- The West Antarctic Peninsular is the fastest warming place in the word.
- Documentary film ‘March of the Penguins’ was shot in Antarctica.
- There are no polar bears in Antarctica.
- Argentine Emilio Marcos Palma was the first person who born in Antarctica.
- The top level domain for Antarctica is ‘.aq’.
- The ice sheet of Antarctica has been in existence for at least 40 million years.
- There are 12 countries having consultative voting status in Antarctica Treaty. These are Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
- From October to February is the summer season in Antarctica and winter covers the remaining year.
- There are Victoria’s secret models from every continent except Antarctica.
- The first confirmed sighting of the continent was in 1820 by the Russian expedition of Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshuansen and Mikhail Lazarev.
- There are 53 member of Antarctica Treaty as of 2016.Please see the above member list.
- Coastal area of Antarctica is the coldest place on earth.
- Americans and Australians are most visited people to Antarctica.
- It is home to the strongest winds in the world. It is called Katabatic winds can blow at speeds up to 320 kilometers or 200 miles per hour.
- International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) is an organization which is promoting the tourism to Antarctica.
- The surface which is not covered in ice is called an ‘Antarctic Oasis’.
- According to International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO)’s report 2016, there are 38,478 people visited Antarctica in 2016.
- The snow free valley in Antarctica is called the McMurdo Dry Valleys.
- The Antarctic ice cap contains 26.5 million cubic kilometers of ice.
- The Rose ice shelf (almost 487,000 square kilometers) which is the size of France.
- Iceberg B-15 was the world’s largest ever measured which was bigger than Jamaica. It was 11,000 square kilometers or 4,200 square miles. It was broken in 2000.
You may read also
- 70 Mind Blowing Facts About North America That You Must Know
- 111 Amazing Facts About Africa That Will Surprise You
- 113 Amazing Facts About Asia That Will Blow Your Mind
I hope you like Antarctica unknown facts, kindly share this facts with your friends and colleagues. Have a good day.
(Visited 61 times, 1 visits today) | environmental_science |
https://demog.pop.upenn.edu/news/all-events/past?page=52 | 2022-11-30T19:33:10 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-49/segments/1669446710771.39/warc/CC-MAIN-20221130192708-20221130222708-00800.warc.gz | 0.935448 | 627 | CC-MAIN-2022-49 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-49__0__154966509 | en | The politics of the climate emergency are inextricably entwined with public and private investment at a planetary scale. There can never be adequate climate policy in one country alone; and there can certainly never be climate justice in one country alone. So how can one link domestic and global climate politics in 2021? Could it be possible to forge a “Pan-American Green New Deal” that centers workers and communities, while deconstructing centuries of American imperialism in the region? Certainly, any move toward continental climate justice will require policymakers, social movement, researchers, and others in the United States to face a Big Question:
How should US-based Green New Dealers—and other advocates of ambitious climate justice action—understand, respond to, and engage with climate politics in other parts of the world?
This panel, “A Pan-American Green New Deal? Green Investment, Extraction Battles, Reforestation,” considers our Big Question in the broad context of climate politics in the Americas. The panel is also part of a broader series, called Democratizing Global Green Investment: Aligning Domestic and International Policies around Green New Deal Principles, which will also feature discussions focused on global climate justice struggles across regions and Chinese climate politics.
The overall context is changing rapidly. This year, we’ve entered a new age of climate geopolitics. The United States is once again committed to massive green investment and some measure of low-carbon ambition. President Biden has outlined four ambitious targets for the United States: carbon neutrality by 2050, a 50% cut in emissions by 2030, a carbon-neutral electric grid by 2035, and 40% of climate investments benefiting disadvantaged communities. As a result of all these measures, the world’s three great economic blocs—the United States, China, and the European Union—which together comprise nearly two thirds of the global economy, are now all committed to carbon neutrality—by 2050 for the US and EU, 2060 for China. And all are committed to prioritizing massive amounts of green investment.
What about Latin America? One idea is the “Big Push” for sustainability framework that is being studied by the UN’s Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC, or CEPAL in Spanish and Portuguese); this investment-first approach to a green transition has been developed by panelist Camila Gramkow. We know that Brazil, green industrial policy has had some important successes, especially in the wind industry, as our panelist Kathryn Hochstetler has shown. But the question of green transition must also consider the question of extraction, a massively contested process—and discourse—across the continent, on which our panelist Thea Riofrancos has written. And of course, it is impossible for Latin America to slash its greenhouse gas emissions without reversing deforestation in a socially equitable way with Indigenous leadership, especially in the Amazon, which is the life’s work of Beto Veríssimo, co-founder of the great Amazonian organization Imazon. | environmental_science |
https://iknow.ugent.be/post/20201006_jurbanmobility/ | 2024-04-19T22:32:25 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817455.17/warc/CC-MAIN-20240419203449-20240419233449-00316.warc.gz | 0.870147 | 163 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__108656163 | en | Launch of the Journal of Urban Mobility
The journal publishes peer-reviewed contributions in all areas of urban mobility that will improve our collective use of livable urban spaces, while ensuring accessible, convenient, safe, efficient, sustainable and affordable multimodal mobility. It is unique in that it takes a systemic approach to urban mobility and encourages multi- or cross-disciplinary triple-helix publications, bringing together academics and practitioners, businesses (industry and small-and-medium-sized companies) and cities.
Prof. Frank Witlox, associate member of the i-KNOW Steering Committee, serves as co-Editor-in-Chief.
Visit the Journal of Urban Mobility home page at | environmental_science |
https://buchananwatercolors.com/our-week-of-winter/ | 2023-12-02T14:55:47 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100427.59/warc/CC-MAIN-20231202140407-20231202170407-00657.warc.gz | 0.986635 | 1,026 | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-50__0__67542045 | en | The eye-level tree line; snow above
Here on Obstruction Island, it really wasn’t bad at all. Well, it was cold. One morning the thermometer said 7 degrees and it was blowing close to a gale from the NE. But I had the deck plants inside. The water lines seemed all right. My worry was getting out on Friday the 20th. The forecast was promising above freezing temperatures on Thursday.
We had snow, just two inches or so, Sun, the 15th, and a lot of wind on Monday. Heavy snows were forecast for Monday night. When I woke on Tuesday the snow was gone! Rain has washed it away. Looking across the water to Orcas I could see a line at eye level. Below it the firs were a dark black-green. Above they were coated in white. Forecasts say, “snow to 200 feet.” I was looking at it — my eye level. Our house is about 220 feet. I wondered if we had a three story house, there would have been snow on the roof.
Tuesday afternoon we had a slush storm and, as the light faded, the snow started. That evening when I crossed between buildings, I found the slush was freezing under the snow. Fortunately I was able to get it off the walks before it turned them into an ice rink. The snow continued. Winds came up and blew very hard – 40k — sweeping some areas bare and drifts into other areas.
After the wind dropped on Wednesday afternoon, I walked down to check on the boat which was fine. There were no other tracks and I thought I might be the only person on the island.
The next day I returned, bringing my art stuff over to the car. I was teaching on the weekend in Edmonds.
Still no new footprints, but coming down the bank from the nearest house to the dock was what looked like a 14 inch wide toboggan track. When it came onto the road, it went down covering my icy prints and continued uninterupted all the way to the dock. At the dock, the toboggan track ended. Raccoon footprints scampered down to the beach. I wished I had my camera!
In the Orcas parking lot I put chains on my car — amazingly easy when you aren’t by the side of the road with cars whizzing by. Orcas had deep snow with ice under it. I thought I needed the chains for the 22 hilly miles to the ferry landing.
road to the beach where the coon toboggan tracks were; another wetter snow
When I returned, I followed the “toboggan track” to where it started. Raccoon prints emerged from under the near cabin. As soon as there was a slope the wide track started. The raccoon must have been tobogganing on its tail.
On Friday I shut down the water, hoping I was doing it right and waited for the water taxi to take me over to Orcas. High winds were forecast and our boat was much safer on the Obstruction side than on Orcas. After I’d waited a half hour a fishing trawler came by and I gave him a weak wave. He asked if I needed a lift. I told him I was waiting for the water taxi but it was late. He’d just seen it at Blakeley so we knew I was okay, although I waited another 15 cold minutes.
On Monday I returned in sunshine and bare ground, a more typical NW winter day. The water was fine. The buildings were fine. The boat was fine. Huge logs had been tossed around on the beach attesting to the ferocity of the wind while I was gone. As soon as the watertaxi dropped me off, I took our boat over to Orcas and loaded it with all my purchases and art supplies. Another gale moved in that night but I was once again snuggy warm.
When Jeffrey called the next day and said it would probably be another month before they returned, I could cheerfully wish him a great trip. I was so glad he hadn’t called the week before when I was full of doubts about my ability to cope. He would have heard it and it would have dampened his adventure. (see Crossing the Caribbean).
This morning the birds are singing in the trees — not the quick chirps of winter but melody! They reminded me that thirty years ago, in February 2nd in Oregon, I wrote:
the pipes were frozen again this morning
and the stove has been burning all day
I know —
I made it!
Spring is on the way.
The light has changed.
The death time is ending for another year.
Things are possible again….
Pushing up promises.
are the chirps and little songs.
Why are the winter birds
all silent kinds?
©Caroline Buchanan, 2012 | environmental_science |
http://www.biopro.de/index.html?lang=en | 2013-05-26T05:54:42 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368706631378/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516121711-00025-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz | 0.931196 | 125 | CC-MAIN-2013-20 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2013-20__0__65012806 | en | Biofilm research aims at fighting hospital germs
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common bacterium that can be found in many different places – soil, water, washing basins, toilets and washing machines, to name but a few examples. Due to its resistance to antibiotic treatment, P. aeruginosa is mainly known as the cause of hospital-acquired infections. David Schleheck, a biologist from Konstanz University, deals specifically with the bacterium’s presence in biofilms. His research could open up new possibilities for combating P. aeruginosa. | environmental_science |
https://middletown.wbu.com/fall-habitat | 2024-02-22T18:42:36 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473824.13/warc/CC-MAIN-20240222161802-20240222191802-00802.warc.gz | 0.933913 | 406 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__65824000 | en | Create an Autumn Habitat For Your Birds
Autumn is a time for sweet memories of falling leaves and aromas of pumpkin spice. As much as we look forward to traditions, birds look forward to the consistent things in our yards. Fall is the perfect time to advertise to the birds that they can rely on our yards as part of their winter habitat territory.
Leave the Landscape
Leave spent plants standing to provide natural food sources and protective cover for the birds. Sparrows will flit to the top of the plants and “ride” them to the ground to feed on the seeds. Juncos and towhees will scratch the ground for dropped seeds. Other birds can find morsels of native insects overwintering in the dormant garden spaces.
Take Stock of Feeders
During winter, birds need high calorie foods to keep their little bodies warm, especially during cold nights. Fall is the perfect time to clean, repair or install new feeders before winter arrives.
A Feeding Foundation
Birds are always looking for food; whether they are eating it or not. Have at least one foundational feeder available now that dependably provides food and does not have to be filled very often. Help your birds know your food is reliable and ever present for them; especially when the weather turns nasty.
Cold winds strip heat from birds very quickly. Birds will seek refuge from the wind in dense vegetation, natural cavities, brush piles or roosting boxes. Roosting boxes provide birds with a warm, dry location that can help protect them from cold, nasty winter weather. Autumn is a convenient time to convert your nest boxes into roosting boxes by temporarily plugging the ventilation holes to help trap heat inside the box.
Birds need water in winter to maintain their feathers for effective insulation. Take time now to set up a heated bird bath or add a heater to your existing plastic, metal or stone bird bath. This will help make some water available even on the coldest day. | environmental_science |
https://www.jerseylandscaping.com/fall-plantings/ | 2024-04-15T22:15:53 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817033.56/warc/CC-MAIN-20240415205332-20240415235332-00410.warc.gz | 0.960723 | 339 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__41846977 | en | It’s the fall, which means it’s time to put away your planting ideas until the spring, right? Or is it? While spring is widely recognized as the best time to plant flowers, grass and vegetables, the secret among gardeners is that planting in fall is actually the best idea.
Fall plantings provide more time and much better weather as well as a better landscape with which to work. Everyone enjoys the longer days and increasingly warmer temperatures of spring, but the more predictable—i.e. less rainy—conditions of autumn make fall plantings ideal. The lack of rain will actually extend the window with which you have to complete your fall planting.
In addition, as long as seed planting in fall happens early in the season, the seeds will have more time to settle in during the winter than they will during the spring and will grow faster once the weather warms up again. And how’s this for a benefit of fall planting: there will be fewer weeds to whack! Weed seeds are already dead by the fall, which means that if you get rid of the weeds, you can immediately plant your flowers, grass and vegetables and not have to worry about removing weeds again in a week or two.
Jersey Landscaping is ready to assist all our New Jersey clients with fall planting ideas—let us put our years of experience with planting in fall, spring and summer to turn your lawn into the best on the block year-round! For more information or to get a FREE ESTIMATE on your fall planting project in NJ, fill out our request a quote form or call us at 732-462-4289. | environmental_science |
https://willowtreefarm.com/about/our-commitment/ | 2024-02-21T12:09:19 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473472.21/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221102433-20240221132433-00325.warc.gz | 0.942143 | 925 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__151930985 | en | As a family-owned and operated business for over 60 years, Willow Tree has always recognized the importance of being committed to the local community, practicing sustainability and responsibility to the environment, upholding high food-safety standards, and ensuring our products are made with only the highest quality ingredients. Following through on our commitments in these different areas is of utmost importance to us here at Willow Tree. Read on to discover how we practice and express our company values and ethics through all that we do.
In addition to supporting local organizations and non-profits (including local chapters of the Boys and Girls Club and YMCA), Willow Tree is also connected to the Julia Cekala Charitable Foundation.
The Julia Cekala Charitable Foundation was created in memory of Walter and Lynda Cekala’s daughter Julia, who passed away on May 23, 2003, at nine years of age. Julia was diagnosed with autism, epilepsy, kidney failure, dialysis and was awaiting a kidney transplant. Julia was a funny, determined and brave little girl who deeply inspired those who knew her, and the foundation was created to celebrate her vibrant spirit and educate people about autism, kidney donation and transplantation, and innovative medical treatments available for those facing the same challenges Julia did.
The foundation raises funds to maintain Julia’s Garden, a 3 + acre public garden and playground complex located in the World War I Memorial Park in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. Julia’s Garden is handicap-accessible, open year round and free to the public. The foundation also engages in community outreach through the annual 5k Butterfly Race and Garden Charity Wine Gala, both of which help support the foundation’s initiatives to advocate for education, recreation, and integration within our community.
Willow Tree is committed to sustainability in both our business practices and the products we offer. We realize that our success depends upon sustaining our environment through the responsible use of resources. We’ve recently renovated our corporate headquarters and processing plant, installing energy-efficient lighting and equipment.
Willow Tree has also entered into an agreement with the Alternative Fuel Foundation to dispose of used canola oil in an environmentally responsible manner. AFF was created to offset carbon emissions produced from burning traditional fossil fuels by collecting used cooking oil (canola, soybean, olive, peanut and hydrogenated) from the food service industry and ensuring it is processed into clean burning biofuel. Reducing air pollution through the production of biofuel reinforces Willow Tree’s commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility.
The same company that takes our used vegetable oil and processes it into renewable fuel also takes our chicken fat for the same purpose. Even the chicken bones, pictured here, are donated to a pig farm in Rhode Island to be repurposed.
We are committed to delivering on the industry’s highest food safety and quality standards by operating in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including those associated with the U.S. Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point System (HACCP) requirements for effective control of food safety and the SQF Level 2 Global Food Safety Initiative.
We hold high standards for cross-contamination prevention and allergen control. All major food allergen ingredients (eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, shellfish, soy, tree nuts and wheat) are listed in the ingredient list on every container and will be noted in the “Contains” statement.
At Willow Tree, we want our valued customers to have only the best experience with our products. We welcome all questions and comments about our products and make it easy for customers to get in touch with us through our Product Comments form.
We take great pride in making all our products with only the freshest, best ingredients. We source all our chicken from USDA-approved farms on the East Coast, and we periodically visit each of the farms to ensure that the flocks are well maintained and are in compliance with all health and safety standards. The USDA seal found on our product packaging ensures that the chicken has been inspected and is free from visible signs of disease.
We understand that many consumers have questions and concerns about how and why antibiotics are used to treat and prevent disease in livestock and poultry. The chicken producers we use adhere to strict government regulations regarding antibiotic use, and the administration of antibiotics is only one FDA-approved tool to keep chickens healthy. We also offer all natural, antibiotic-free frozen chicken pies (available in 10oz and 26oz sizes) as an alternative to our consumers. | environmental_science |
https://baayadesign.com/blogs/hospitality/crafting-natures-embrace-baayas-bespoke-wall-murals-at-ona-farmstay | 2024-04-21T11:04:36 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817765.59/warc/CC-MAIN-20240421101951-20240421131951-00649.warc.gz | 0.952033 | 335 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__136686735 | en | At Baaya, we thrive on creating, curating, and customizing spaces that resonate with nature's essence. Our recent residential project was a testament to Baaya's commitment to crafting spaces that tell a story, curating art that speaks to the soul, and customizing every detail to create an environment that reflects and enriches the lives of its occupants. It's a celebration of the beauty of nature and the artistry of tribal traditions, and we are thrilled to share this remarkable journey with you.
The Vision: The heart of this project was to bring the outdoors inside, to create a living space that effortlessly harmonized with the natural world. The abundance of trees and elements of nature surrounding the house became our inspiration. We aimed to capture this essence and infuse it into every corner of the home.
Customization at its Finest: To achieve this vision, we turned to the rich and art forms of Warli and Gond. These tribal art traditions are deeply connected to nature, making them ideal for our project.
Each wall mural was meticulously customized to align with the theme of the room. The Aakash Chamber, for instance, was transformed into a skyward sanctuary with birds, sun, and sky. The Jal Chamber came alive with vibrant fish, reminding us of the joys of water. The Prithvi Chamber rooted us firmly to the Earth with the Tree of Life, a symbol repeated throughout the living spaces. To create these stunning murals, we collaborated with some of our most talented artists, who, with each mural, ensured that the tribal connection with nature resonated authentically while transforming the spaces into works of art. | environmental_science |
https://blog.learningarcticbiology.info/a-biologists-dream/ | 2023-09-21T23:06:25 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-40/segments/1695233506045.12/warc/CC-MAIN-20230921210007-20230922000007-00230.warc.gz | 0.974866 | 713 | CC-MAIN-2023-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-40__0__326860325 | en | So far, my internship consisted mostly of being in the laboratory analyzing samples, helping students, and organizing different sections of the biology department to work more efficiently. I had everything on my Wishlist ticked off, besides one; marine field work!
Initially my goal was to get on the AB.203 6-day marine biology cruise – the main reason most of my study mates decided on coming to UNIS and taking the AB-203 course. Unfortunately, there was not enough space for me to join due to corona regulations. I also felt a bit relieved because I tend to get seasick and don’t do well with smaller amounts of sleep (-the cruise was much harder work than the students anticipated).
Instead I got very lucky as I got offered to go on a 2-day field work trip instead with two PhD candidates, one specializing in zooplankton and the other in sea-ice algae. It even included an overnight stay at the Bjørnebo cabin near Svea! In total it was 5 of us, including another master student and my supervisor.
With snowscooters we drove to the incredibly beautiful van Mijenfjorden with sleds full of equipment and, of course, snacks. We drove onto the sea ice and took samples from several different locations. It was almost unbelievable to stand on the middle of what usually is a large open fjord, on top of almost a meter of incredibly stable sea ice. Another layer of excitement was added by the fresh polar bear tracks along the sides of the fjord. The weather was beautiful; no wind and sun most parts of the day.
The PhD candidates Vanessa and Rebecca were great patient teachers and showed me how to use all the equipment and take the different measurements. First, we actually had to drill through about a meter of ice; a task that is super exciting to newbies, and super exhausting once you have performed it over 50 times. Luckily this was done using an electric ice-augar so with a bit of help from your body weight a hole is made in just a few minutes. When a large hole was made, I was taught how to measure the light intensity below the sea ice versus above. This allows us to know how much light the critters beneath are receiving; a variable that can be important for the growth of the organisms. We then collected several water samples using a device that works like a trap for collecting water at a specific depth.
These samples are analyzed later in the lab by Vanessa to look for specific marine organisms. Next, we let a CTD device that records the conductivity (for salinity), temperature at the different depths that it travels through. This gives a great overview of the environment that the organisms are living in.
For the sea-ice I learned to take ice-cores; a cylindrical vertical sample of the entire ice at one spot, from which we then cut off the bottom 3 cm into bags for later analysis in the lab. The hope here is to collect the small ice algae that lives below the ice and often attaches itself to the bottom layer. On some locations we could even see a green/brown colouring from the layer of algae that had attached themselves to the ice, but our sea-ice algae expert was continually worried about the lack of abundance of these algae which she reasoned to likely be a consequence of the extensive winter that covers the ice with snow and prevents the organism’s access to the sun light they need to grow. | environmental_science |
http://darcyfalk.com/2011/06/09/time-travel-walking-through-the-centuries/ | 2018-02-23T16:28:43 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-09/segments/1518891814801.45/warc/CC-MAIN-20180223154626-20180223174626-00110.warc.gz | 0.964275 | 882 | CC-MAIN-2018-09 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2018-09__0__223555640 | en | Far from the fires around Flagstaff, we’ve been in chilly Ogden, Utah, this past weekend. It was green almost beyond belief—the only gaps in the lushness are where snow still covers the mountainsides and peaks. The reservoirs are brimming, and the rivers are running at full tilt: falling over cliffs of quartzite and granite and crashing down mountainsides.
Wednesday, we hiked up Waterfall Canyon, just east of town. From the top of the canyon, snowmelt plunged down 200 feet to where we were standing. A wind kicked up from the rush of water and coated us with a fine cool mist. I missed a crossing over the creek on the way down, and had to wade across the cold stream to pick it up again. Frigid water ran through my boots, leaving the hem of my jeans soaked.
Our first two nights away from home, we camped on Cedar Mesa, just north of the San Juan River in southern Utah.
We hiked a rim trail to a giant rock formation, a fortress tower with just a spine of land connecting it to the main part of the mesa. About a third of the way up from the bottom of the canyon were terraces that looked like garden plots, carved into the flattest levels of the canyon. We spotted structures below on the canyon floor, and a tiny square window indicating a granary. A rocky sentinel with a smooth round head stood guard nearby, watching over the abandoned settlement.
After being forced to scramble along a steep ledge to stay on the trail, we were able to walk along the exposed ridge to visit 10 rock rooms built into the cliff just below the top layer, some perfectly intact, others just barely crumbling. The tower afforded a clear view for miles in any direction, and a completely defensible location.
The place felt like a prayer: quiet, windswept and generations-old.
As we turned back, the profile of a 30-foot-high boulder looked like the silhouette of a man’s face, ancient eyes upturned to the western sky.
After supper and clean-up, we played music around the campfire in the still of the night and resolved to hike again in the morning. We rose early, packed up camp, then descended into the canyon, clambering down rocky talus slopes, over rock falls and boulders to the canyon floor. The sandy path took us through cottonwood groves, past reedy plants and pools of water. We listened to birdsong and watched lizards dart in front of us, and spied the ribbon of a snake scooting away at our approach.
In addition to the intact kivas we’d seen from the rim, there were others that had collapsed, a total of seven. All along the walls at the site were potsherds and tiny cobs of corn, picked utterly clean by small rodents and birds.
The kiva roofs were made of timbers thick as thighs, with charred ends, cut to length with fire not saw blades. Flat rocks were stacked atop the timbers to complete the roofs and fortify the structures. From the rim, rectangular holes in those roofs had looked like the eyes and mouths of kachinas. What we couldn’t see from the trail above was that the insides of the kivas had been made smooth with mud and were polished black with soot, just like the ruins we’d seen on the rim.
Like scouting a rapid, the higher view gave us an idea of what we might encounter. The rim hike to the fortress was for viewing mountain ranges, geologic features, and the way trees and rocks populate the land, letting us see a compelling and dramatic big picture.
But without those delicious details, the view felt empty and incomplete, like a grand gesture with no driving emotion.
From the rim, there were no charred beams, no fragments of pottery, no wet boots, no tiny ears of corn or darting lizards, no smell of water or sound of the wind rattling through the cottonwood leaves. By getting wet and dirty, we caught the particulars of the experience. The canyon hike was for going deep, getting to the heart of the place, sensing the intimate character of a human life one thousand years ago. | environmental_science |
http://goeco.com/ | 2021-12-08T19:22:33 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-49/segments/1637964363520.30/warc/CC-MAIN-20211208175210-20211208205210-00548.warc.gz | 0.940427 | 593 | CC-MAIN-2021-49 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-49__0__175258267 | en | Ms. Cavanaugh has extensive experience managing environmental assessments, regulatory audits and compliance, greenhouse gas inventories, and construction-related planning, permitting, and monitoring programs. She has successfully completed projects on time, under budget and without environmental incident for large multinationals, municipalities, utilities and First Nations.
Romilly has conducted numerous greenhouse gas (GHG) projects for a wide variety of clients including airlines, manufacturers, construction companies, professional associations and major sporting events. She was responsible for inspecting facilities, identifying all emission sources, compiling energy consumption data, calculating GHGs, setting GHG targets with clients, recommending reduction strategies, writing annual emission reports and training clients to track and evaluate their emissions in-house. Reduction programs focus on fuel switching, building and equipment efficiency, software improvements, behaviour change and staff training.
Romilly has successfully managed life cycle assessments (LCA) for leading manufacturers of consumer products, in order to assess the impacts of their products’ manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal, using key indicators such as climate change, water and energy consumption, human health effects, resource depletion and ecosystem quality. These studies have been used to assess the environmental benefits of sustainable approaches to product design and manufacturing. Clients included a leading garment manufacturer and a sustainable paper producer. Romilly is able to provide a detailed evaluation of up to 15 impact categories using the latest in LCA software and methods. She adeptly completes each step in the LCA process, including data compilation, literature review, impact modelling using industry-standard SimaPro software, collaboration with NGO review panels and report preparation. Once key issues have been identified, she is able to recommend innovative approaches to mitigation, based on effective sustainability strategies.
Romilly has prepared detailed EIAs for various infrastructure development projects. The EIAs described each project’s impacts on resources such as the aquatic environment, hydrology, land, wildlife, vegetation, public facilities and parks, recreation, aesthetics, air quality, the soundscape, archaeological artifacts and cultural resources. In addition, she addressed any residual impacts through the creation of mitigation plans.
Romilly has managed environmental issues on various large-scale construction projects. Responsibilities consisted of preparing environmental impact assessments (EIAs), acquiring permits and approvals from all levels of government, reviewing engineering drawings and recommending revisions to protect environmental resources, monitoring construction and site restoration, collecting environmental samples, training contractors and employees, and preparing contractor specifications, contingency plans and regulatory reports.
Romilly has successfully managed environmental audits for a variety of clients. These included regulatory compliance evaluations and identification of environmental risks and liabilities. Generally, audits were conducted in conjunction with a company's Environmental Management System or in relation to property acquisitions or divestitures. Compliance with internal company policies and all applicable regulations were evaluated, including federal, provincial and local requirements.
Please fill in the form, below. You may also reach Romilly at 604 837 7479. | environmental_science |
http://andamanpackage.com/andamantravelguide.php | 2022-01-17T07:53:37 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-05/segments/1642320300343.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20220117061125-20220117091125-00433.warc.gz | 0.931424 | 334 | CC-MAIN-2022-05 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-05__0__55709934 | en | Book Your Perfect Tour
Located in the Bay of Bengal and measuring 700 kms from North to South is a sprinkling of 572 alluring Islands of which only 36 are inhabited. Part of the Indian Sub- Continent and known as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, these undulating isles hold a rustic and ethereal charm that remains unfazed by time.
After years of isolation, the Government has in the past decade or so begun to allow environmentally conscious tourism in the Andamans. However the Nicobar Islands remain inaccessible and tourists (both Indians & Foreign nationals) are strictly not allowed to visit this group of Islands.
Due to the government's strict controls and presence of a vigilant defence force, the added stigma of a former 'penal colony', and the untiring efforts of environmentalists, the Andamans still remain breathtakingly pristine and beautiful till date.
Tropical rainforest offer an extravaganza of rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. Four out of five species of sea turtles, including the giant leatherback are found in the Andamans. Wild 'salties' (saltwater crocodiles) inhabit vast mangrove eco-systems keeping nature in balance.
Don those tanks of air, snap on that mask - below the surface is probably the final undiscovered frontier for scuba diving in South East Asia.
If you are looking for that perfect getaway, where you can relax and rejuvenate in nature's lap, watch time come to a complete standstill and hear the sounds of silence, its time to be hypnotised by the Andaman Islands. | environmental_science |
https://engage.epa.sa.gov.au/Victoria-Road/news_feed/first-community-panel-meeting-held-on-30-october-2019 | 2020-08-09T16:29:17 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-34/segments/1596439738562.5/warc/CC-MAIN-20200809162458-20200809192458-00587.warc.gz | 0.951926 | 293 | CC-MAIN-2020-34 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2020-34__0__137895281 | en | First Community Panel meeting held on 30 October 2019
The joint City of Port Adelaide Enfield and Environment Protection Authority’s Victoria Road Air Quality Study Community Panel had their start up meeting on October 30th 2019. This meeting gave the panel a chance to get to know one another and to review the Terms of Reference that will guide their task. The second meeting of the panel took place a week later on the 5 November. During this meeting the panel did a further review of the Terms of Reference before signing off on them.
The next item on the agenda was an information session on Victoria Road from the EPA technical adviser. The session provided the panel members with road traffic data, how air quality may vary along different sections of the road, how far into the residential areas it may go, and how it may be affected by variations in weather conditions.
Panel members were asked by the facilitator to propose air monitoring sites for consideration. The proposed sites will now be entered into a table that will allow the panel to measure the sites against a set of criteria.
During the next meeting, the panel will review the measures with the aim of determining where the air quality monitoring stations will be placed along Victoria Road.Please phone us on (08) 8204 2176, email [email protected] or visit www.engage.epa.sa.gov.au to keep up with information on the Victoria Road air quality study. | environmental_science |
https://databasetheory.org/node/111 | 2023-10-03T07:31:50 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-40/segments/1695233511055.59/warc/CC-MAIN-20231003060619-20231003090619-00017.warc.gz | 0.942201 | 602 | CC-MAIN-2023-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-40__0__190559676 | en | TCS4F is an initiative by theoretical computer scientists who are concerned about that other major crisis of our time: climate change. We anticipate that the climate crisis will be a defining challenge of the decades to come, that it will require major changes at all levels of society to mitigate the harm that it will cause, and that researchers in theoretical computer science and in database theory, like all other actors, must be part of the solution and not part of the problem.
The TCS4F initiative proposes a manifesto to commit to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions: following IPCC goals, the objective is to reduce by at least 50% before 2030 relative to pre-2020 levels. The manifesto is more than a simple expression of concern, because it is a pledge with concrete objectives. However, it does not prescribe specific measures, as we believe this discussion is not settled yet and the right steps to take can vary depending on everyone's practices.
The manifesto can be signed by individual researchers (like you, dear reader!), by research groups, and by organizers of conferences and workshops. Currently, over 90 researchers have signed it, including several database theory researchers. The goal of TCS4F is also to start organizing a community of concerned researchers, across theoretical computer science, to think about the issue of climate change and how to adjust what we do, in particular our travel habits.
We need your help to make this initiative a success and help theoretical CS, and database theory, lead the way towards a sustainable, carbon-neutral future:
- If you agree with our concerns and are ready to commit to reducing your carbon footprint, consider signing the manifesto. Signing is open to all researchers in theoretical CS in the broadest possible sense and of course to the whole database theory community.
- Advertise your support of the manifesto (e.g., by putting one of our badges on your webpage). Talk in your research teams and departments about the manifesto, and see if you can gather support for signing the manifesto collectively as a research group.
- If you are involved in conferences and workshops, start a discussion about the carbon footprint of the event, and whether the event could commit to the manifesto's goal. Indeed, as ICDT and SIGMOD/PODS are moving online this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is a good time to discuss how our conferences could evolve towards more sustainable models.
- Spread the word about the issue of climate change and the TCS4F initiative, and encourage discussion of this important challenge in our communities.
As theoretical researchers, we are not used to discussing uncomfortable non-scientific questions like the effects of our activities on the world. However, we believe that the magnitude of the climate crisis obliges us to act now as a community. We are confident that great changes can be achieved if we do not limit our creativity to our specific research areas and also use it to re-think our way to do research. | environmental_science |
https://www.qscapes.fish/consult | 2022-05-27T00:18:32 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-21/segments/1652662627464.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20220526224902-20220527014902-00364.warc.gz | 0.951179 | 193 | CC-MAIN-2022-21 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-21__0__231469210 | en | Why we do consultations?
QScapes takes our consultations seriously. We pride ourselves on being able to provide the best quality aquascaped tanks possible. In order to do this, consultations are used to create the best solution for your aquascaped tank in your home or office. We consider your area of choice, the size of the tank and stand, the best background, electrical setup, best plants and fish to compliment your space. While we are with you we answer all of your questions (including those about electricity or water usage) and arrange for the perfect time to come and set up your tank. Aquascaping is still a very new art form and each bespoke tank is made with the care it deserves. Why settle for a plastic-filled tank that leaves fish unhappy, leading to more costs because they pass away. Do your home or office a favor and place a serene meditative piece of nature that'll leave visitors memorized and amazed. | environmental_science |
https://mirror-avisassets.abgemea.com/drive-avis/driving-guides/beyond-belfast-rediscovering-narnia-at-tollymore-forest-park | 2024-04-24T02:36:26 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296818999.68/warc/CC-MAIN-20240424014618-20240424044618-00440.warc.gz | 0.948947 | 990 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__27888949 | en | At the foot of the Mourne Mountains, which are the tallest and most dramatic in Northern Ireland, Tollymore Forest Park sprawls across an area of more than 1,500 acres and occupies a special place in the local imagination. This is rumoured to be the inspiration for CS Lewis’s Narnia, and more recently it was a filming location for the ubiquitous television series Game of Thrones. Its enchanting leafy woodlands and peaceful winding rivers are infused with a rarely found tranquillity—and a touch of magic—that’s appreciated by all who visit.
Tollymore Forest Park has changed hands many times over its history. While it’s now overseen by the Forest Service, the park’s footbridges and atmospheric architectural sights scattered along its trails hint at its history under the Hamilton family. The ivy-blanketed follies and charming stone-hewn buildings add to the forest’s fantasy feel. Clanbrassil barn was constructed in the 18th century to resemble a church, complete with a steeple and bell. The Gothic-style gate arches, remote Hermitage and countless other curiosities seem to have been imported from a world of make-believe. Perhaps it’s fitting that these creations were the work of astronomer and mathematician Thomas Wright, a friend of the Hamiltons, whose nickname was “The Wizard of Durham”.
The easiest way to reach Tollymore Forest Park is to drive there. If you’ve hired a car in Belfast, head due south via the A49 for around 60km. The drive itself is a pleasure: as you leave the bustle of the capital behind, you soon find yourself in the greener surroundings of County Down. Take advantage of the route’s proximity to the idyllic seaside resort of Newcastle, at the base of the imposing Slieve Donard mountain. Stop off here for a refreshment and to enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea before heading on to Tollymore Forest Park.
Once you reach Tollymore’s car park at the outer edges of the woodland, leave your vehicle and follow the trail into the forest. The paths and many gurgling streams will guide you deeper inside, and as they do, the trees will seem to bend and intertwine above you, creating an enchanting emerald canopy.
There are numberless walking routes for first-time visitors. The River Trail is one such route—it offers a three mile scenic jaunt along the Shimna River. There are plenty of picturesque rocky outcrops, bridges, grottos and caves to explore. Salmon and trout swim in the rushing waters. Exotic trees, such as monkey puzzles and eucalyptus, stand beside the river like silent guardians, while giant redwood, oak and Monterey pines rise up through the canopy.
Venturing deeper into the park, and the woodlands’ transformation into CS Lewis’s mystical world beyond the wardrobe is complete. Torrents of water gush forth from the mouth of a stone lion in a classical fountain at the top of Azalea Walk; standing alone is a stone chair engraved with the poetry of Alexander Pope. There’s a giant, split boulder, or glacial erratic, inscribed with a biblical verse. ‘Stop,’ it invites the onlooker. ‘Look around…’
Take the inscription’s advice, and you may spot some of the wild animals that have made the forest their home. There are over a hundred fallow deer that have lived in the park since the 1970s, and red squirrels were first recorded in the park in 1880, though their grey cousins have become more populous in recent years. Tollymore Forest Park, and the Shimna River which winds through it, are the only places that wild mandarin ducks have been seen in Northern Ireland, while pine martens, badgers, foxes and otters have also taken up residence in the park.
The tranquil ambience and other-worldly feel of Tollymore Forest Park stand in stark contrast to the vibrant atmosphere of nearby Belfast and the clean and colourful Derry/Londonderry. It isn’t difficult to see why these untamed and intimate surroundings had such a profound effect on writers like CS Lewis, who grew up east of the capital. But any visitor can lose themselves in Tollymore Forest Park in much the same way that Lewis supposedly did; it’s hard not to. So near is Tollymore Forest Park to Belfast that if you hire a car during your stay in Northern Ireland, it would be remiss not to head south and escape, if only for a few hours, into a world apparently plucked out of a fairy tale. | environmental_science |
http://languagereading.blogspot.com/2016/08/the-goldfinch-academic-reading-for.html | 2018-05-23T09:06:20 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-22/segments/1526794865468.19/warc/CC-MAIN-20180523082914-20180523102914-00246.warc.gz | 0.967701 | 727 | CC-MAIN-2018-22 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2018-22__0__37256769 | en | Not the most sullen sky nor the bitterest cold seems to discourage Goldfinches. They are always cheerful and affectionate, keeping together for the greater part of the year in larger or smaller flocks, which call to each other, if separated, by notes as sweet as those of a Canary. In summer, Goldfinches find an abundance of food in the seeds of many species of plants, but in winter also many remain even in the Northern States, searching cheerfully among the dry weeds and grasses, and uttering their sweet notes. Many people, however, do not notice them at this season, for when winter comes the head and body of the males of this species, as of many others, lose the bright black and yellow which marks them so distinctly in summer, and are clothed in dull brownish shades. About the first of April, one notices here and there in a flock a male that shows a few bright yellow feathers, and by another month, they have moulted their winter dress and are as gay as ever.
In the spring and early summer, the Goldfinches are extremely musical, spending hours in uttering a simple but pleasing song. Several males now engage in what seems to be a musical contest, flying out from a tree and circling about with set wings, all the time keeping up a continual strain. When flying through the air at a considerable height, they go in long curves, and utter during each undulation three or four simple notes. As they seem constantly to have business in one part or other of the country, the wave-like flight and characteristic notes become a common feature of the summer landscape.
Though the Goldfinches are here all winter, they delay nesting till very much later than the other resident birds; the Chickadees have their first brood already out in the world by the time the Goldfinches determine on building. The female is a modest-colored little body, as is often the case where the male is bright. The pair generally builds in July, and chooses some thick leafy tree, often a maple or poplar, and there, on a limb at a considerable height from the ground, construct a very neat nest, deep and cup-shaped, built of fine materials and lined with down from plants like the thistle. Here five or six bluish white eggs are laid, and when in another month the young Goldfinches begin to fly, it is at once evident from their sharp, insistent crying. As the calling of the young Orioles is a mark of late June, so the notes of the young Goldfinches become associated with August.
Goldfinches are very fond of the seeds of many kinds of composite flowers; they bite holes in unripe dandelion heads and take out the seeds; thistles are another favorite food, and a row of sunflowers planted in the garden will not fail to attract them. In winter, besides the seeds of weeds, they feed on birch seeds, scattering the scales over the snow, and they even pull out the seeds of the pitch pine, when the scales begin to loosen toward spring.
No bird has livelier, more cheerful ways than our Goldfinch, and none becomes a greater favorite. People are often at considerable pains to remove the dandelion plants from their lawns; if the gay flowers themselves do not repay one for their presence, many would certainly allow them to remain in order to have the pleasant spectacle, in summer, of a flock of yellow Goldfinches scattered about the grass and feeding on the seeds. | environmental_science |
https://www.nossacoffee.com/peru-selva-andina | 2019-10-23T21:48:59 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-43/segments/1570987836295.98/warc/CC-MAIN-20191023201520-20191023225020-00219.warc.gz | 0.932163 | 464 | CC-MAIN-2019-43 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2019-43__0__124100862 | en | REGION Cajamarca, Cutervo
RELATIONSHIP Friends via Sustainable Harvest
ALTITUDE 1600-1850 masl
COMMUNITIES Miraflores, Tablabamba, Pabellon
VARIETALS Caturra, Typica, Pache, Bourbon
Selva Andina (‘Andean Forest’), or The Association of Coffee Producers of the Andean Forest, is a cooperative located in the northern region of Peru. It is a democratically-run collective of smallholder coffee communities of the Cajamarca and Amazonas regions that focuses on sustainable agriculture and consistently produces high-quality coffee.
In its own words, the organization is “committed to sustainable coffee production, preserving the environment and improving the living standards of its members.” Selva Andina works to strengthen capacities in organic production and marketing of premium products, while also contributing to the development of the local producers’ communities. The organization has obtained USDA, EU & Peruvian organic certifications, as well as Fair Trade certification.
Member farmers of Selva Andina harvest their coffee with the help of their families and contracted local workers. Great care is put into selecting only mature coffee cherries to avoid mixing in green or overripe fruit. The cherries are depulped in mechanical depulpers on individual farms the same day they are harvested and are fermented in either cement or wood tanks. Afterward the coffee is washed using clean water, then dried naturally on patios made of cement, on wooden and mesh trays or raised covered beds in solar tents. After drying, the coffee is transported to Piura for dry milling in a private plant. It is then cupped to ensure quality control before heading to port in Paita for export.
In February 2015 Selva Andina received funds from the government to improve the post-harvest infrastructure for members who are aiming to produce high-quality coffee for the specialty market. This group of farmers will renew their depulping machines, restore their cement tanks with tile, and improve their solar driers. The project also considers the production of organic fertilizer to improve soil quality. Additionally with these government funds Selva Andina has fully implemented a cupping lab. | environmental_science |
https://tributepackaging.com/blogs/news/how-the-government-ban-on-single-use-plastic-affects-you | 2024-04-22T03:52:00 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296818072.58/warc/CC-MAIN-20240422020223-20240422050223-00131.warc.gz | 0.911791 | 507 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__112026601 | en | Plastic pollution has become a global environmental crisis, prompting governments around the world to take action. One significant step in combating this issue is the government ban on single-use plastics. In this article, we will explore how this ban affects you and why it is crucial for the environment.
The ban on single-use plastics aims to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated, which has devastating effects on our planet. Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, leading to pollution in our oceans, landfills, and ecosystems. By implementing this ban, the government is taking a proactive approach to protect the environment.
Changes in Daily Life
The government ban on single-use plastics will undoubtedly bring about changes in our daily lives. Items such as plastic bags, straws, and cutlery will no longer be readily available. This means that individuals will need to adopt more sustainable alternatives, such as reusable bags, metal straws, and bamboo cutlery.
While this may require a slight adjustment, it presents an opportunity for us to develop eco-friendly habits and reduce our reliance on plastic. Additionally, businesses will need to find alternative packaging solutions, favoring biodegradable materials.
Single-use plastics are not only harmful to the environment but also pose risks to human health. Some plastic products contain toxic chemicals that can leach into food and beverages. By eliminating single-use plastics, we can reduce our exposure to these harmful substances, promoting a healthier lifestyle for ourselves and future generations.
The government ban on single-use plastics also has economic implications. While some industries may experience initial challenges in transitioning to more sustainable practices, it also opens up opportunities for innovation and job creation in the production of eco-friendly alternatives. Moreover, reducing plastic waste can lead to cost savings in waste management and environmental cleanup.
The government ban on single-use plastics aligns with global efforts to combat plastic pollution. Many countries have already implemented similar measures, showcasing the collective commitment towards a cleaner and more sustainable future. By joining these global efforts, we contribute to a significant change on a worldwide scale.
The government ban on single-use plastics is a crucial step towards addressing the plastic pollution crisis. Although it may require adjustments in our daily lives, it brings numerous benefits for the environment, our health, and the economy. By embracing this ban and adopting sustainable alternatives, we can all play a part in preserving our planet for future generations. | environmental_science |
https://emsmanagement.com/ | 2023-03-29T00:36:13 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-14/segments/1679296948900.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20230328232645-20230329022645-00766.warc.gz | 0.944437 | 466 | CC-MAIN-2023-14 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-14__0__119450193 | en | EMS Management is a mobile industrial cleaning service company. We provide services to rail, marine and terminal assets. EMS is a solutions based company which addresses the unique and demanding challenges related to cleaning of storage and transportation assets. With over 20 years in environmental industrial cleaning, EMS has become a leader in both mobile and fixed cleaning operations.
EMS leads with uniquely engineered solutions combined with proprietary chemistries that deliver safe, green, timely and cost effective value to their customers across the country. EMS has launched into new service markets tapping into our vast knowledge and experience in environmental and industrial cleaning services.
With the establishment of mobile vessel cleaning in the US Coast Guard's 8th District and dispatching nationally for the cleaning of above ground storage tanks and in-plant services; EMS continues to add value through expanded services to new and existing customers.
EMS Management Railcar Service Division delivers environmental cleaning solutions to the rail fleets of America. EMS offers cleaning solutions for many types of railcars and commodities; from food grade sanitization, petro-chemicals, oils, asphalt, plastics and resin conversion cleaning.
EMS Management Marine Service Division delivers environmental cleaning solutions to the Marine fleets of America. EMS has established barge and vessel cleaning operations throughout the US Coast Guard's District 8.
EMS Management AST Service Division delivers environmental cleaning solutions to the AST assets of America. Our staff is skilled and equipped for the cleaning of ASTs and pipe transfer manifolds.
We believe the most important asset is our team. The men and women that come together to create our company are committed to safety and EMS is committed to providing training that will keep personnel, assets and infrastructure safe in order to send everyone home safe every day.
EMS partners with various organizations that adhere and exceed OSHA safety standards for training. EMS is qualified through IS Networld & SMI Safety. All personnel participate in the NASB & ASAP drug testing and background verification consortium.
Beyond basic OSHA 501 & 511 training, EMS maintains staff with certified OSHA trainers to reinforce class room training in the field where safety becomes reality. Through employed trainers and continued enrollment with the Houston Area Safety Council, EMS maintains 100% compliant with OSHA standards and strives to have all field team members 40hr HAZWOPR certified, First Aid, CPR & AED certified. | environmental_science |
https://plants.westonnurseries.com/12130019/Plant/1805/Star_Showers_Virginia_Creeper/ | 2024-04-15T09:01:01 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296816954.20/warc/CC-MAIN-20240415080257-20240415110257-00857.warc.gz | 0.918859 | 503 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__193267268 | en | Star Showers Virginia Creeper
Parthenocissus quinquefolia 'Star Showers'
Star Showers Virginia Creeper foliage
(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)
Height: 40 feet
Spread: 24 inches
Hardiness Zone: 4a
Other Names: Woodbine
A new variant on this popular vine featuring five-lobed leaves splashed with creamy white for a stunning effect, excellent along fences and arbors, up the sides of houses or climbing trees; variegation may not be stable, less vigorous than the species
Star Showers Virginia Creeper has attractive white-variegated green foliage on a plant with a spreading habit of growth. The serrated palmate leaves are highly ornamental but do not develop any appreciable fall color.
Star Showers Virginia Creeper is a dense multi-stemmed deciduous woody vine with a twining and trailing habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.
This woody vine will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and can be pruned at anytime. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard, but is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics.
Star Showers Virginia Creeper is recommended for the following landscape applications;
Planting & Growing
Star Showers Virginia Creeper will grow to be about 40 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 24 inches. As a climbing vine, it tends to be leggy near the base and should be underplanted with low-growing facer plants. It should be planted near a fence, trellis or other landscape structure where it can be trained to grow upwards on it, or allowed to trail off a retaining wall or slope. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 20 years.
This woody vine performs well in both full sun and full shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species. | environmental_science |
http://www.peoriaaz.gov/NewSecondary.aspx?id=57061 | 2015-10-10T03:38:41 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-40/segments/1443737940789.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20151001221900-00064-ip-10-137-6-227.ec2.internal.warc.gz | 0.907771 | 597 | CC-MAIN-2015-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2015-40__0__134946 | en | Recycling Presentations and Tours
The City of Peoria collects about 70,000 tons of waste each year and delivers it to local landfills. Much of this waste can be diverted from landfills and recycled. Last year Peoria's citizens diverted approximately 16,000 tons of waste from area landfills! Great job! Let's divert even more!
Recycling Makes Sense
- Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators
- Conserves natural resources such as timber, water, and minerals
- Prevents pollution caused by reducing the need to collect new raw materials
- Saves energy
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change
- Helps sustain the environment for future generations
- Helps create new well-paying jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries in the United States
- At the MRF, the collected materials are sorted and bundled for sale on the open market (this is why it is important to buy goods made from reycled materials).
- Recyclable materials collected are taken to an area materials recovery facility, or MRF.
- City receives money depending on how clean the recyclable materials are (the cleaner the recyclables the higher the dollar amount per ton).
Presentation, Tours, and Outreach
We offer free presentations, tours, and outreach to all Peoria citizens, schools, and community groups. Please complete the online reservation form to request a speaker, exhibitor or a Materials Recovery Facility field trip for your event. Reservations must be made at least 1 week prior to event. For additional information please email us at [email protected] or call 623-773-7160. Transportation to and from the materials recovery facilities is not provided.
Click Here to book a presentation or tour.
Other educational sites
- The Environmental Protection Agency offers a great deal of recycling information. Click HERE to visit their waste education site.
- Earth911 is dedicated to reducing waste and offers some great information. Click HERE to visit their site.
- Arizona Recycling Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting recycling throughout the State. Click HERE to visit their site.
Educational recycling videos
- Here is a short video of a local Materials Recovery Facility, or MRF. Click HERE to view the video. If you're interested in taking a group tour of a facility similar to this complete the online form above. You'll be amazed!
- Plastic bags aren't recyclable in curbside containers. Instead, take them to one of many Bag It Central Station locations at Peoria's Fire Stations, City Hall or libraries. Once collected, it goes through it's own recycle process. Click HERE for a short video about plastic bag recycling.
Follow Peoria Sustainability on Facebook - Like Us on our Sustain and Gain Facebook Page. Click HERE to visit. | environmental_science |
https://longossolarcleaning.com/testimonials/ | 2021-09-20T16:42:10 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-39/segments/1631780057083.64/warc/CC-MAIN-20210920161518-20210920191518-00601.warc.gz | 0.975607 | 631 | CC-MAIN-2021-39 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2021-39__0__245855696 | en | Josh from Longo’s Solar Cleaning has fair prices, does a great job and is extremely reliable. Not only does he clean solar panels he also does lawn maintenance and trash removal. I have used many companies for lawn service in the past but have had horrible luck with them sticking to a rotation or even showing up at all, until now. When you have to lock in your animals, knowing when is most important. I would highly recommend Longo’s Solar Cleaning for all your yard maintenance and solar cleaning needs!
First, Josh from Longo’s Solar Cleaning provides great service at a great price as well as peace of mind. Second, I went with their basic plan, what’s great is the price they gave me for 2 cleanings a year was that of other businesses for a single clean. I checked out an app that I have monitoring output of my solar on my phone and saw that it almost doubled. I definitely recommend and will be using them again.
Josh owner of Longo’s Solar Cleaning did an excellent job on cleaning my Solar light tubes. They were just like new when he finished the job. Spent extra time cleaning the inside and roof top of the Tubes. 5 star rate for Longo’s
Great service! The owner and operator, Joshua Longo, was very knowledgeable with solar panel cleaning. He is very informative about the need to have all the dust, dirt, and debris removed from the panels serval times a year so the panels can perform at their most efficient capacity. He has great communication skills and was very prompt. Only took him a couple of hours to clean 31 panels and they look great. His willingness to work weekends helps those who have busy workweek schedules. I high recommend Joshua and Longo’s Solar Cleaning! Support local and small businesses! Thanks again
As a provider of solar power systems we recommend Longo’s solar cleaning to all of our solar power customers. Joshua longo is always just a call away when we need a quick quote for cleaning solar panels or for providing bird proofing to keep the birds away from the solar systems. We appreciate the up front pricing with no hidden costs. Excellent service, Fair pricing and professionalism.
Longo’s Solar Cleaning is one of the few businesses that isn’t on “Yuma Time” Josh came out on time at the agreed upon time. He took his time cleaning my solar panels and ensured they were done right the first time. I have seen the difference of the productivity and is saving me money on my electric bill. I will definitely be using Longo’s in the near future. Highly recommend.
I used Longos solar cleaning and landscaping service for My over grown front lawn.
My yard had gotten away from me and was Pretty overwhelming to look at to be honest.
Longos came out and completely took care of my yards needs mowing, trimming and weeding my yard.
Fast, affordable,fair and dependable Longos did an excellent job! | environmental_science |
https://ny-foodie.com/is-it-safe-to-use-plastic-containers-in-the-microwave/ | 2024-04-18T10:02:42 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817206.28/warc/CC-MAIN-20240418093630-20240418123630-00691.warc.gz | 0.92656 | 2,710 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__176985731 | en | As we go about our daily lives, convenience often plays a significant role in our choices. One such convenience is the ability to quickly heat up food in the microwave. However, a question that commonly arises is whether it is safe to use plastic containers in this cooking method. In this article, we will explore the potential risks and benefits associated with using plastic containers in the microwave, shedding light on this topic and providing you with the necessary information to make informed decisions about your kitchen practices.
Overview of Microwave-Safe Plastics
Understanding microwave-safe plastic
Microwave-safe plastics are specifically designed and tested to withstand the heat generated by microwaves without melting or releasing harmful chemicals. These plastics are made from materials that do not react with the food or beverages placed inside them. It is important to note that not all plastics are microwave-safe, and using the wrong type of plastic can pose risks to both our health and the integrity of the container and microwave itself.
Different types of microwave-safe plastics
Several types of plastics are generally considered safe for use in the microwave. These include polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polyethylene (PE). These plastics have high heat resistance and are not known to release harmful chemicals when heated. They are commonly used in microwaveable food containers, storage containers, and microwave-safe wraps and covers.
Potential Risks of Using Non-Microwave-Safe Plastics
One of the main risks associated with using non-microwave-safe plastics is chemical leaching. When plastic containers are exposed to high temperatures in the microwave, chemicals from the plastic can leach into the food or beverage inside. These chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, have been linked to various health issues, including hormonal disruptions, reproductive problems, and certain types of cancer.
Release of harmful substances
Non-microwave-safe plastics can release harmful substances when heated, potentially contaminating the food or beverage being heated. These substances may include toxic gases, dyes, or additives present in the plastic. Ingesting or inhaling these substances can have negative effects on our health.
Damage to the container and microwave
Using non-microwave-safe plastics can also cause damage to the container and the microwave itself. Non-microwave-safe plastics may melt or warp when exposed to high temperatures, leading to potential leaks, spills, or even fires. In addition, the heat generated by these plastics can cause the microwave to malfunction or become damaged.
Microwave-Safe Symbols and Codes
Understanding the microwave-safe symbols
Microwave-safe plastics are commonly labeled with unique symbols that indicate their suitability for use in the microwave. These symbols are usually found on the bottom or side of the container and serve as a guide for consumers. The most recognized symbol for microwave-safe plastics is a square box with wavy lines inside it, indicating that the plastic is safe for use in the microwave. It is important to check for these symbols before using plastic containers in the microwave to ensure their safety.
Decoding plastic recycling codes
Plastic containers also often feature recycling codes, which can provide some information about the type of plastic used. However, it is important to note that these codes do not necessarily indicate microwave safety. The most common recycling codes found on plastics include numbers 1 through 7, along with their corresponding resin identification symbols. While some of these plastics may be microwave-safe, others are not and should be avoided.
Specific Plastics to Avoid in the Microwave
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a type of plastic that should never be used in the microwave. When PVC is heated, it can release toxic chemicals called dioxins, which are known to be carcinogenic. In addition to the health risks, PVC can also melt or warp when exposed to the high temperatures of the microwave, making it unsuitable for use.
Polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam, is another plastic that should be avoided in the microwave. When heated, polystyrene can release harmful substances, including styrene, which has been linked to respiratory issues, neurological effects, and even cancer. It is best to transfer food from polystyrene containers to microwave-safe alternatives before heating.
Polycarbonate plastics, which are often transparent and hard, should be avoided in the microwave. These plastics can release bisphenol A (BPA) when heated, which is a chemical associated with various health problems. To ensure safety, it is recommended to use alternatives to polycarbonate containers in the microwave.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PETE) beverage bottles
While polyethylene terephthalate (PETE) bottles are generally safe for storing beverages, they are not considered suitable for use in the microwave. The heat generated in the microwave can cause the bottle to melt or release harmful chemicals into the drink. It is best to transfer the beverage to a microwave-safe container before heating.
Other non-microwave-safe plastics
In addition to the specific plastics mentioned above, it is important to avoid using any plastic containers that are not labeled as microwave-safe. These may include plastics labeled with recycling codes 3, 6, or 7, as they may release harmful chemicals or melt when exposed to high temperatures.
Types of Plastics Generally Considered Microwave-Safe
Polypropylene (PP) is a commonly used plastic that is known for its high heat resistance and stability. It does not release harmful chemicals when heated and is therefore considered microwave-safe. PP plastics are often used in microwaveable food containers, such as those used for reheating leftovers or storing pre-cooked meals.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is another plastic that is considered safe for use in the microwave. It is a versatile and durable plastic that can withstand the high temperatures of the microwave without melting or leaching harmful chemicals. HDPE is often used in microwave-safe storage containers and packaging.
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is similar to HDPE in terms of its safety for microwave use. LDPE has a lower melting point compared to HDPE, making it suitable for short microwave heating times. It is commonly used in microwave-safe plastic wraps, bags, and covers.
Polyethylene (PE) is a general term that encompasses both HDPE and LDPE. It refers to a category of plastics that are safe for use in the microwave. PE is known for its heat resistance and low chemical reactivity, making it a reliable choice for microwave-safe containers and wraps.
Tips for Microwaving Plastic Containers Safely
Check for microwave-safe labeling
Before using any plastic container in the microwave, it is essential to check for microwave-safe labeling. Look for the square box with wavy lines inside it, indicating that the plastic is safe for use in the microwave. If there is no specific labeling, it is best to assume that the container is not microwave-safe and choose an alternative option.
Avoid using old or damaged plastic containers
It is important to avoid using old or damaged plastic containers in the microwave. Over time, plastic can become scratched or damaged, making it more prone to leaching harmful chemicals into food or melting in high heat. Inspect the containers for any cracks, warping, or discoloration, and replace them if necessary.
Use microwave-safe covers or vented lids
When using plastic containers in the microwave, it is advisable to use microwave-safe covers or vented lids. These help trap steam and heat, ensuring even heating and preventing splatters. Make sure the covers or lids are specifically labeled as microwave-safe to avoid any risks.
Transfer food to microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers when unsure
If unsure of the microwave safety of a plastic container, it is best to transfer the food or beverage to a microwave-safe glass or ceramic container. Glass and ceramics are known for their heat resistance and do not release harmful chemicals when heated. This provides a safe alternative when in doubt.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using plastic containers in the microwave. Different brands and types of plastic may have specific guidelines or limitations, and it is essential to adhere to them for safe and effective use.
Practice caution with certain foods
Some foods, such as those high in fat or sugar content, can generate more heat when microwaved. It is important to exercise caution when heating these foods in plastic containers, as the increased heat can potentially affect the integrity of the plastic or release harmful substances. Consider using microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers for such foods to avoid any risks.
Alternatives to Plastic for Microwave Use
Glass containers are an excellent alternative to plastic for microwave use. They are microwave-safe, do not release any harmful chemicals when heated, and offer the added benefit of being transparent, allowing for easy monitoring of the food during heating. Glass containers are also durable and can be used for both cooking and storage purposes.
Ceramic containers are another safe and popular option for microwaving food. They are designed to withstand high heat and do not react chemically with the food being heated. Ceramic containers are available in various shapes and sizes and are suitable for cooking, reheating, and storing food.
Silicone containers have gained popularity in recent years due to their flexibility, durability, and microwave-safe properties. Silicone is heat-resistant and does not release harmful chemicals when microwaved. Silicone containers often come with lids or covers, making them convenient for storing and reheating food.
Debunking Common Myths about Microwaving Plastic
Plastic releases harmful toxins when heated
One common myth about microwaving plastic is that it releases harmful toxins when heated. While it is true that certain non-microwave-safe plastics can release harmful substances, microwave-safe plastics are specifically designed to resist heat and do not leach harmful chemicals. When using microwave-safe plastics, there is no need to worry about toxins being released into the food.
Microwaving plastic causes cancer
Another misconception is that microwaving plastic causes cancer. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Microwave-safe plastics are tested and approved to ensure they do not release carcinogenic substances when heated. It is important to use the correct microwave-safe plastics and follow proper usage guidelines to minimize any potential risks.
All plastic containers are microwave-safe
Contrary to popular belief, not all plastic containers are safe for use in the microwave. Each plastic type has different properties and tolerances to heat. Using the wrong type of plastic can lead to melting, release of harmful substances, or damage to the container and microwave. Always check for microwave-safe labeling or use alternative microwave-safe materials when unsure.
Research and Expert Opinions
FDA guidelines on microwaving plastics
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides guidelines and regulations regarding the safety of plastics intended for use in the microwave. These guidelines ensure that microwave-safe plastics comply with specific criteria, including heat resistance and chemical stability. Following FDA guidelines and using microwave-safe plastics can help minimize risks associated with microwave use.
Scientific studies on plastic safety in the microwave
Numerous scientific studies have been conducted to assess the safety of plastic containers in the microwave. These studies have examined the potential release of chemicals, the effects on food quality, and the impact on human health. Although some studies have raised concerns about certain non-microwave-safe plastics, microwave-safe plastics have generally been found to pose minimal risks when used correctly.
Expert opinions and recommendations
Experts in the field of food safety and material science generally agree that using microwave-safe plastics is safe for daily use. However, experts also recommend using caution and common sense when using plastics in the microwave. It is important to choose the correct plastics, follow usage guidelines, and consider alternatives like glass or ceramic containers for added peace of mind.
In conclusion, using microwave-safe plastics can be a safe and convenient way to heat, cook, and store food in the microwave. Understanding the different types of microwave-safe plastics and their symbols can help us make informed decisions and minimize potential risks. It is essential to avoid using non-microwave-safe plastics, as they can release harmful chemicals, damage the container and microwave, or pose health risks. By following guidelines, transferring food to appropriate containers when unsure, and considering alternative materials like glass or ceramic, we can ensure safer microwave use. Always prioritize our health and well-being by choosing microwave-safe plastics and practicing caution when handling and heating food. | environmental_science |
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https://www.grassrootsjpe.org/view/article.php?article=19 | 2024-02-29T10:46:19 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947474808.39/warc/CC-MAIN-20240229103115-20240229133115-00124.warc.gz | 0.937844 | 7,967 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__90859840 | en | The political ecology of shrimp aquaculture in Tamil Nadu: A case study from Mayiladuthurai District
Nagarajan R Durai , Babuji K R
This article uses a political ecology lens to analyze the impact of shrimp aquaculture in Tamil Nadu, with a case study of a coastal village in the Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu, India. The article first looks at the shrimp industry in the coastal village as a case that illustrates how global capitalism influences the local economy. Second, it identifies ecological degradation due to the commodification of nature and analyzes the social origins of degradation. Commodification alienates nature and people from each other, and its impacts are unevenly felt across social strata, especially class, gender and caste lines. The article finally discusses the intersectionality of social differences and differentiates how the impacts of commodification are experienced and responded to.
Key Words: Shrimp aquaculture; Political ecology; Food security; Dalits
International development and financial institutions promote the development of indebted coastal countries and help them earn foreign exchange earnings for paying off external debt in numerous ways (Shekhawat et al., 2020). The promotion of industrial shrimp aquaculture is a major route for this. The aquaculture industry in India underwent substantial growth in the 1990s when shrimp farming became an intensive practice (Kurien 1997). In general, in the context of liberalization policies, export-oriented aquaculture is associated with improving food security, reducing poverty, and facilitating economic growth (Primavera, 1997). However, the promotion of export-oriented production is mostly in the hands of big corporations, which can have detrimental consequences for the livelihoods of local populations and the environment (Rivera-Ferre, 2009). Therefore, the broad objective of this article is to examine the social origins of environmental degradation through a political ecology lens, emphasising how power relations influence the access to resources and how they are managed (Peet & Watts 1996, Bryant 1998).
A coastal village located in the Sirkazhi Block of the Mayiladuthurai District in Tamil Nadu was chosen to study shrimp aquaculture activities in Tamil Nadu. The village has a total population of 6,853 and an area of 801.08 hectares (Census of India, 2011). A caste group belonging to Most Backward Classes (MBC) constitutes most of the village's population, whereas the Scheduled Caste group (Dalits) constitute 9.5 per cent. The MBCs are the traditional landowners of the village, while Dalits were primarily employed as agricultural sources of livelihood. The study mainly concentrated on the primary data from four hamlets where shrimp aquaculture is highly prevalent. The study area was selected based on its coastal agro-ecosystem, issues related to soil and water salinization, and conversion of substantial agricultural land into aquaculture farms. The Central Ground Water Board (2020) has classified Sirkazhi Block as "over exploited" due to excessive groundwater extraction. The Central Water Commission (2017) recorded that 59% of the Block has been affected by saltwater ingression. The total cultivated area of the village under study was reduced from 440.8 hectares to 211.6 hectares in twenty-eight years, marking a drop of 52 per cent (Census of India, 1991; VAO, 2019). More than 57 hectares of this uncultivated agricultural land has been converted into aquaculture during this period. Concomitantly, the number of main cultivators has also dropped by 35 per cent (Census of India, 1991 & VAO, 2019).
An exploratory research methodology was employed. Qualitative data collection methods including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were used to study the impact of shrimp aquaculture on the socio economic life of the villagers and its implications for local livelihoods. In addition, large and small shrimp farms in the village were visited using the transect walk method, and field notes were made based on the observation method. Snowball sampling was used to identify informants including agriculturists, shrimp farmers, shrimp farm laborers, feed dealers, buyers and residents of the Dalit hamlet. Women constitute 45 per cent of our sample.
The article is divided into six sections. The subsequent section draws attention to the history of shrimp aquaculture's introduction, growth, and development of shrimp aquaculture in the village and reviews how it is moulded through the intervention of state and multinational funding agencies. Next, the article analyzes the changes in social hierarchies due to the introduction of shrimp aquaculture and investigates how some private players take hold of immense profit by monopolizing the industry at the village level. The rest of the article adopts a political ecology approach, which frames an analysis of the roots of social unrest and environmental degradation on the ground of how global forces of state and market alienate nature and people from each other. This section intersects along the axes of environmental degradation, household food security, class, gender and caste. The last section concludes the study.
2. Reverberations of global power relationships at village level
The Aquaculture Development and Coordination Programme (ADCP), a project under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), came up with a National Aquaculture Development Plan (NADP) for the decade 1976-1985. They set an overall targeted production of 3 million tonnes, to which India pledged to contribute a maximum of 41 per cent (FAO, 1976). The Indian fishers who released shrimp back into the waters until the 1970s started recognising their export potential and brought them to landing sites. When fishers started to overexploit natural shrimp stocks, India faced stagnation in shrimp exports immediately after the boom. As a result, the Indian government began to devote attention to aquaculture as an alternative source for shrimp. They developed an interest in coastal land that had previously been left to be managed by local communities. The most crucial aspect of this transformation from artisanal fishing to an agricultural model for shrimp has been the necessity of gaining secure access to land. A study by Hall (2003) indicates that the establishment of shrimp ponds has involved significant shifts in land relations across Southeast Asia.
Meanwhile, in the 1970s and early 1980s, the coastal village we studied subsisted on agriculture and fishing. It experienced extreme summers for six years between 1984 and 1990, and the flow of water through the Cauvery River was considerably reduced due to a water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Hence farmers started to depend extensively on bore water, which caused seawater to move in to take up the space previously occupied by underground freshwater, and it made the groundwater saline. This adversely affected agriculture, especially since summer crop cultivation was stopped for nearly five years from 1985, and the land was kept barren. The state, which had already developed an interest in coastal land, capitalized on this situation to introduce shrimp aquaculture in drought-affected villages. The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) started its first office in Thanjavur district in 1988 to develop the unutilized arable-turned- saline tracts into potential lands for shrimp aquaculture. Among the marine items exported by India in 1992-93, shrimp formed 35.7 per cent by volume and 66.8 per cent by value (Mukul, 1994). The enticement of the exploitable profits in the industry fostered by the enabling environment of liberalization policies, research institutions, and multilateral consultancies attracted two corporates, Spencer and Sri Ram, to start large-scale shrimp aquaculture projects in the village in 1993. Spencer bought 300 acres (121 ha) in the village, and Sri Ram 400 acres (162 ha) near the village boundary, which included both unutilized agricultural land and residential areas. Although MPEDA did not encourage small-scale shrimp aquaculture during this phase, some villagers took a chance by investing in it on their few acres of land. It is also far simpler for members of the agriculture community to switch to aquaculture than it is for fisher folk, since agrarian communities possess more land. Several infrastructure development programs, along with better technology dissemination and fiscal incentives, were launched to boost the shrimp industry during this period. The sector witnessed concurrent growth in associated services such as hatcheries, processing plants, ice plants and shrimp depots, as well as the increase in shrimp farms (Hoque, 2017).
However, the sudden boom in profits in the first half of the decade was immediately busted in the middle of 1998 with infections caused by several viral diseases, especially the white spot syndrome . The disease was previously reported in other countries and is argued to have spread to India through the illicit import of seeds (ostracoda) from Thailand to the farms of Andhra Pradesh (Sangamaheswaran & Jeyaseelan, 2001). Consequently, the European Union and Middle Eastern countries imposed a ban on marine products from India, stating quality reasons, and incurring losses for both corporates and local shrimp farmers. The disease continues to be alive in consecutive shrimp cultures; while local farmers adapt quickly to the changing conditions, corporates are unable to survive the colossal loss of harvest. In a volatile disease environment, small farmers with more expertize in local ecologies can better micro-manage and take advantage of a trial-and-error approach (Vandergeest et al., 1999). Because of their strict organizational structure, corporates find it challenging to make timely decisions. Thus, both Sri Ram and Spencer were liquidated by the year 2000. The 7 to 10 per cent annual increase in exports that the industry was experiencing every year in the 1990s had come down to an average of a 0.41 per cent increase in quantity and a 0.47 per cent increase in value in the export markets post-2000 (Immanuel & Narayanan, 2022). But the absence of big corporates created a void in the employment opportunities that previously existed, and increased the demand for local shrimp farmers who could produce more shrimp for export markets. Hence shrimp farmers in the coastal village get good returns even when the price of shrimp fluctuates in the global market—higher demand for shrimp, and their ability to micro-manage has motivated more villagers to enter into shrimp aquaculture.
In 2009, most Southeast Asian countries started shifting toward the culture of the white-leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), which was introduced in the village in 2012. Though local farmers resisted the culture of exotic species like vannamei initially, soon they replaced native tiger shrimps (Penaeus monodon) with vannamei as the new species had several advantages for the farmer's operations. Vannamei can be stocked at high densities due to their less aggressive nature, leading to much higher production for the same unit of land. MPEDA also promoted the culture of vannamei by introducing subsidies to importers of vannamei seeds. The shrimp industry contributed 74.3 per cent of India's US$ 5.96 billion seafood exports as of 2020–2021 (MPEDA, 2021). India's shrimp exports increased from 15,762 MT in 1961 to 590,275 MT in 2021, an increase of 3,745 per cent (MPEDA, 2021). Corresponding prosperity was also reflected at the village level. The absence of big corporates was utilized as an opportunity by the local shrimp farmers to catch hold of the economy of the village completely.
Shrimp could have been considered a fictitious commodity, according to Karl Polanyi. Fictitious commodities are defined as "goods or services that are treated as commodities for exchange in the market but that are not actually produced for sale or exchange" (Polanyi, 1957). The shrimp as a species has been largely insignificant in the cultural life of villagers until very recently, when its status has changed to a 'real' commodity (Hall 2003). It has now become a highly sought-after due to its increasing popularity in global markets. The market mechanism has also driven the expansion of shrimp farming into new areas, often at the expense of other land uses and natural resources. As detailed below, this has caused environmental deterioration, economic instability, and social inequity.
3. New social hierarchies
Since members of MBC were the traditional landowners of the village, most shrimp farmers belonged to MBC, who converted their traditional agricultural land into shrimp farms. Despite the fact that the shrimp industry improved the local economy and has generated employment opportunities through the establishment of related industries, most of the income has been enjoyed by a handful of powerful entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs, who are large landowners from the relatively well-off sections of farmers from MBC, emerged as a new elite class in the village. Though the data from Village Administration Office indicates that 25 per cent of shrimp ponds in the village were owned by four major shrimp farm owners, their actual share is substantially higher. It is understood from the in-depth interview with two major shrimp farm owners that these two alone own 35 per cent of the total shrimp ponds in the village.
Another class of resource-poor farmers from MBC that do not have enough capital to start shrimp farming, turned into an intermediate class by making use of employment opportunities in the shrimp farms and allied industries or by doing small-scale shrimp aquaculture on their few acres of land. Hence it is observed that the land ownership patterns severely constrain the potential of the resource-poor to engage in aquaculture as producers. Shrimp aquaculture has promoted a shift away from individual entrepreneurship in the form of agriculture towards wage employment in shrimp farms, meaning fewer owners and more laborers.
If I am doing shrimp farming in a pond of one-acre area with two lakhs (0.2 million) seeds and able to harvest at 40 or 50 counts per kilogram, the total harvest will be about 5 tons ideally. In order to get a harvest of 5 tons, the same 5 tons of feed supply is required. On average, the total amount spent on one kilogram of shrimp will be about Rs.260-290 (3.14 - 3.50 US$). Such that if I get Rs.400 (4.83 US$) as the selling price, then my profit is likely to be Rs.600,000 (7,246.4 US$) per culture .
The expense of buying feed is the largest investment in shrimp aquaculture; about Rs.5,000 (nearly US$ 600) must be spent daily on feed if the farmer expects 5 tons of harvest from 100,000 seeds. Considering the 164 aquaculture ponds in the village, a rough estimation is that nearly 800,000 rupees (9,663 US$) are spent on the feed itself. Most small-scale shrimp farmers in the village depend on two feed dealers in the nearby town, both of whom are wealthy shrimp farm owners. These feed suppliers earn 20 per cent profit from each sale, and it is around 200,000 rupees per day (US$ 2,444). They provide feed to the small-scale farmers without any immediate cash payment, and hence these farmers are obliged to 'hand over' their harvest to the same feed dealer with no or minimal bargaining (here, the feed dealer transforms into a sub-buyer ). When debt payments cannot be met, these small-scale shrimp farmers have no option but to sell or give up their land. As a result, many small farms have been slowly assimilated into the larger ones, making the rich more powerful. A similar observation was made by the Environment Justice Foundation (2003) that small-scale shrimp farmers in India, as in Vietnam, are deeply obligated to various feed and supply companies which advance their materials on credit.
By integrating feed supply and sub-buying, the elites can dominate shrimp aquaculture at the village level and earn huge profits. However, the outcomes are not limited to economic benefits. The disproportionate amount of control and dominance that the key players have over society, which is obtained through caste hegemony, is now being reinforced by shrimp farming.
4. Environmental degradation
Local business ecosystem causes unsustainable intensification of shrimp aquaculture, leading to severe environmental degradation. The rate of water seepage is higher due to the sandy nature of the soil, and hence water must be continuously pumped from the bore well to the pond at least 15hrs a day. Shrimp farmers admitted that the excessive groundwater exploitation has led to the drawing down of local aquifers. Further, to stock at higher densities, they started digging the ponds deeply and lowering the depth of the water column. Over time, salts penetrate the water table, making the land and water shown in Figure 1 highly brackish. The water quality index of the village was tested to be 62 in 1995 (in India, classed as 'poor'); it worsened to 149 in 2018, which means the groundwater is unfit for drinking and domestic purposes (Paul Raj et al. 1995; Vijayachandran & Ravisankar, 2018). According to studies, the seepage of brackish water from shrimp ponds has led to the salinization of the surrounding soil, decreased agricultural productivity and stunted vegetation (Barraclough & Finger-stich 1996, Lewis et al. 2003).
In the wake of the adverse effect of aquaculture on the environment, the Supreme Court judgment mandated the formation of a monitoring authority for aquaculture by 1997, which was established later in 2005 with the enactment of the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) Act. Following the advice of the district-level committee (DLC), the CAA issues licenses to eligible shrimp farmers (MoA&FW, 2005). But the intervention of CAA in the village was found to be inadequate and too late. There are more than 80 shrimp farmers in the village; however, only 52 are registered. Violations were numerous, such as usage of bore water, setting up shrimp farms very close (less than 50 meters) from human settlements and fields and drinking water sources, leaving a large lateral water spread area, not using inner clay core in the dykes to prevent saline water intrusion, and not building effluent treatment ponds.
Thus, shrimp aquaculture has caused significant problems for local communities, and agriculture in particular, because of its thirst for water. The lands adjacent to the ponds become unsuitable for farming due to lateral seepage of saline water. As a result, farmers are obliged to either dispose of their land or leave it fallow. Notably, the district marked a 50 per cent increase in fallow land between 1999 and 2015 (Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, 1999, 2019). Prosopis juliflora trees proliferate in the fallow areas within one or two seasons of non-cultivation, which further degrades land quality. Another issue related to water usage has been dumping untreated shrimp farm effluent into communal waterways, degrading the water available for farming. Furthermore, the decline of agriculture has a detrimental effect on cattle rearing, another key source of income for the villagers. The rising trend of fallow land and lessened harvests per year restricts the fodder supply for cattle, affecting the viability of livestock rearing.
Consequently, shrimp aquaculture has led to social tension between the agriculturalists and shrimp farmers, who are both members of the same community. The ones regarded as "companions" when agriculture was the major land use, are now perceived as "competitors." Although there is strong resistance from farmers and residents against unregulated shrimp aquaculture activities, no adequate preventive steps have been taken. This is despite concerns that aquaculture has transformed the village into what White (1995) called an 'Organic Machine.'
The degradation of agricultural land contributes to the further expansion of the shrimp aquaculture industry. As Ray et al. (2021) explained, saltwater incursion works as a double-edged sword; it results in a decline in rice production and forces people to convert land to shrimp ponds. Poor agriculturists affected by salinization often have little option but to sell their fields at deflated prices to aquaculture operators, or join them:
My brother and I own 90 cents (3,642 m2) of family land on which we have traditionally grown rice. However, the yields are largely affected by the saline water intrusion as nearby lands were converted into shrimp farms. Although I continue cultivating rice on my 30 cents (1,215 m2), my brother has decided to convert the rest of the land into a shrimp farming pond. While a ditch was made to separate each other's land, it was unable to prevent the saltwater intrusion. So I sold my land to my brother and joined this shrimp farm as a worker .
Interestingly, even the narratives of wealthy shrimp farm owners underscore the fact that they lacked autonomy in choosing alternate livelihood strategies. Hence, they have no option but to adhere to existing rules of shrimp farming with uncertainties about production given its long-term disease history. Despite the economic gain, most local shrimp farmers opined that shrimp farming is not their desired profession and worried about their traditional ancestral land being polluted:
Water scarcity is why our land becomes a mud puddle. I know our lands could no longer grow rice and groundnuts ever again. Yet, if my bore water becomes fresh today, I will seal all my ponds and restart agriculture again. We are agricultural people .
5. Relationship between environmental degradation and social inequalities
Asymmetries in social power can cause trade-offs and distributional disparities by shaping social-ecological change, favoring certain players' interests over others (Ingalls & Stedman, 2016). When the transfer of land towards non-agricultural businesses is promoted as part of India's development agenda, it causes repercussions in 'Dalit ecologies', exacerbating existing inequalities (Prasad, 2022).
Shrimp farms are less labor-intensive than agricultural fields, and the labor opportunities are limited to men only. Farm owners opined that the nature of work in shrimp farms requires much physical labor and they are expected to work at night; hence women are not preferred as laborers. Shrimp farm owners only engaged the resource-poor people from their own caste groups to perform the work on these farms. As the agricultural lands were converted into shrimp farms, the traditional agricultural laborers of these lands (Dalits) were replaced correspondingly. Marginalization from the shrimp aquaculture sector and erosion of their resource rights left no alternate work for Dalits in their village. It forced them to migrate to take on informal sector works such as brick cutting and construction jobs in the neighbouring districts and states (Pratheepa et al., 2023). We observed that at least one male member from each family in the Dalit hamlet migrated. While men were able to migrate, the women who were bounded mainly to domestic care work were forced to remain in the village. The decline of agriculture has disproportionately reduced Dalit women's capacity to earn, and they eventually lost their informal rights in the local economy. It has been reported that the Dalits borrow money from local financiers at a very high rate of interest (up to 30 per cent) to meet their daily expenses and finally wind up in an endless poverty spiral.
Shrimp were considered by villagers as a food of the rich, because of their high price; they are wholly exported and seldom ever eaten by the villagers. The positive income from aquaculture has enhanced the purchasing capacity of MBC people and thereby improved their access to healthy food. On the other hand, the decline of agriculture has distorted the traditional food supply chain. For instance, Dalits had access to rice, black gram (Vigna mungo, a legume), peas and all necessary vegetables while they worked as agricultural laborers. Because of their reduced capacity to purchase food from the market following the decline of agricultural production, Dalits were then forced to constrain their diet to articles obtained from Tamil Nadu's public food distribution (PDS) system. With their limited diet, women were found to be receiving the lowest share of available food, as men and children in the family are prioritized:
The cotton separating works only last for three months. During other months, we do not afford to buy vegetables from the shops. Nowadays, our children survive by consuming ration rice with a water-diluted one rupee pickle packet .
Moreover, groundwater salinization has also led to severe water scarcity in the Dalit hamlet for domestic and consumption purposes, leading to Dalit women having to spend a lot of time and energy to fetch potable water:
There are three public taps in our hamlet, but none of them has access to water. So we have to walk 2 km in the early morning to the nearby panchayat to fetch drinkable water. Sometimes the water may be unavailable, and we are compelled to consume corrosive and saline water, which leads to many water-borne diseases .
A canal that ran through the hamlet was no longer cleaned as agriculture declined, turning it into a mud puddle. Once a boon, the canal became a bane for the people in the hamlet, since mosquitoes thrive in stagnant water, causing frequent illness. Thus, a cycle of social and environmental degradation exists in which socio-economic marginalization pushes people into ecologically marginal areas, eventually leading to a spiralling degradation of the landscape and increasing impoverishment (Robbins, 2004).
For the government, shrimp production allows joining the global value chain and earning foreign exchange. The introduction of shrimp aquaculture in the coastal village we studied is linked to the interest of global market forces to enhance profits through the commodification of nature. As the local economy has become increasingly integrated with global markets, sustainable local production systems undergo a transition to the overexploitation of natural resources, which results in loss of subsistence and, cyclically, increasing overexploitation. The consequences of ecological degradation due to overexploitation are experienced differently by groups with varying power, based on their divergent social and cultural roles.
For large shrimp farm owners, shrimp means dollars and social mobility. Shrimp farming is certainly appealing to many large-scale agriculturalists because of its short-term high economic benefits in the context of decreasing income from crop cultivation. The large landowners who are capable of investing a lot of capital in shrimp farming, have transformed into large shrimp farm owners. While a portion of the resource-poor farmers turned their agricultural land into small shrimp farms, others sold their land to the major owners, and occupied the laboring work on these farms. This has created a major shift away in the land ownership pattern of the village and has resulted in fewer owners and more workers.
For small-scale shrimp farmers, shrimp means gambles and losses. They have become indebted to large shrimp farm owners for procuring feed and for marketing their products. The large farm owners monopolize them at the local level by integrating input supply and procurement chains, which deepens the vulnerabilities of small farm owners. When debt payments cannot be met, these small-scale shrimp farmers have no option for returning to agriculture, instead selling or give up their land to large shrimp farm owners.
For agriculturalists, shrimp is identified with pollution and infringement. Shrimp farming causes water scarcity due to the excessive use of bore wells, salinization of the soil and ground and surface water, and environmental pollution due to the use of pesticides and untreated runoff. Moreover, given current trends, unregulated shrimp farming will eventually lead to lower crop yields and permanent land degradation. Hence agriculturalists have limited options: abandon farming, or sell their land at deflated prices.
For Dalits, a shrimp is just a worm from the sea. They have been completely kept out of shrimp production, marketing and processing in the village. Their traditional livelihood has been completely lost with the decline of agriculture, forcing them to migrate from their village. The intersecting caste, class and gender structures position Dalit women as the most disadvantaged group within these power relations. Their environment has been strained, their subsistence way of living has been hindered, their informal rights in the local economy have been lost, and they have been pushed into a never-ending poverty spiral. The inherited vulnerabilities of Dalit women have been intensified by restricting their traditional land-based livelihood through the commodification of natural resources.
Drawing on insights from political ecology scholarship, Baglioni & Campling (2017) argues that there is a dialectical relation between environmental degradation and social inequalities, such that the different communities experience the degeneration of ecologies based on already existing social inequalities and this, in turn, generates new social contradictions which further intensifies land degradation and social inequalities. Shrimp farming in Tamil Nadu illustrates these dialectical relationships.
Mr. Nagarajan R Durai is a research assistant in the Centre for Socio-economic and Environmental Studies, Kerala, India. E-mail: [email protected]. Mr. Babuji K R is a research assistant in the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, Kalpetta, Kerala, India. E-mail: [email protected]. Acknowledgements – We extend our gratitude to the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) for giving us a research intern opportunity on TIGR2ESS Flagship Project 1, BB/P027970/1. Furthermore, we thank Dr C M Pratheepa, Post-Doctoral Fellow, MSSRF, for guidance throughout this work, and an academic referee.
Name of the village is not mentioned due to ethical concerns.
A highly lethal and contagious viral infection that kills the shrimp quickly.
A shrimp farmer responding to the question of capital investment and profit (6/2/2022).
The sub-buyers are those intermediaries who distribute the shrimp collected from farmers to exporting companies.
An analogy used by Richard White to demonstrate how native peoples and settlers have continually remade the Columbia River, treating it as a machine designed to churn out energy and sustenance (1995).
A shrimp farm worker shared how he joined the shrimp farm while in a focus group discussion (4/02/2022).
A shrimp farm owner concluded the interview (12/02/2022).
Public Distribution System.
A mother from the Dalit hamlet expressed her dejection (10/02/2022).
As an adolescent girl in the hamlet explained (12/02/2022).
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White, R. (1995). The organic machine. Hill and Wang. | environmental_science |
https://colesonplumbing.com/water-heater-maintenance-big-one-a-must/ | 2024-03-04T08:13:25 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947476432.11/warc/CC-MAIN-20240304065639-20240304095639-00013.warc.gz | 0.913224 | 767 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__124580589 | en | Water heater maintenance is crucial for several reasons, ranging from ensuring the efficient operation of your system to extending its lifespan and reducing energy consumption. Neglecting water heater maintenance can result in a variety of problems, including decreased performance, increased energy costs, and even the need for premature replacements. Here are several important reasons why water heater maintenance is essential:
- Efficient Operation: Over time, sediment, mineral deposits, and rust can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank. This buildup can act as insulation, reducing the efficiency of the heating element or burner. An inefficient water heater consumes more energy to heat the same amount of water, leading to higher energy bills.
- Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your water heater. When sediment and scale accumulate, it can lead to corrosion and wear on the tank’s interior, reducing its durability. Routine maintenance helps prevent premature water heater failures and costly replacements.
- Improved Performance: A well-maintained water heater provides consistent and reliable hot water. Neglecting maintenance can result in fluctuations in water temperature or reduced hot water supply, which can be inconvenient and disruptive to your daily routines.
- Energy Savings: An inefficient water heater not only consumes more energy but also contributes to higher energy bills. Proper maintenance ensures that your water heater operates at peak efficiency, helping you save on energy costs over time.
- Preventative Measures: Regular maintenance allows technicians to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach can prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line.
- Safety: Neglected water heaters can pose safety risks. Gas water heaters, for instance, can develop issues like gas leaks or faulty ventilation systems if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance helps ensure the safe operation of your water heater.
- Water Quality: Sediment and mineral buildup in the tank can affect water quality. It can lead to discolored or foul-smelling hot water. Routine maintenance, including flushing the tank, can help maintain water quality.
- Warranty Requirements: Many water heaters come with manufacturer warranties that require regular maintenance to remain valid. Neglecting maintenance may void your warranty, leaving you responsible for repair or replacement costs.
- Reduction in Noise: Sediment buildup can lead to noisy water heaters. Gurgling, popping, or banging sounds from the tank are common signs of sediment accumulation. Regular maintenance can reduce these noises, providing a quieter and more pleasant home environment.
- Environmental Impact: Energy-efficient water heaters have a lower carbon footprint. By maintaining your water heater’s efficiency, you contribute to environmental conservation efforts by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Improved Water Pressure: Sediment accumulation can restrict the flow of water through the tank, leading to reduced water pressure in your home. Proper maintenance can help maintain consistent water pressure.
- Compliance with Local Regulations: Some regions have regulations and codes that require regular maintenance of water heaters, particularly for safety and environmental reasons. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid potential legal issues.
Water heater maintenance typically involves flushing the tank, checking and cleaning the heating element or burner, inspecting and testing safety features, and ensuring all components are in good working condition. While some maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, it’s advisable to schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to address more complex issues and ensure the optimal performance and safety of your water heater.
In conclusion, water heater maintenance is essential for efficiency, longevity, safety, and cost savings. Neglecting maintenance can result in decreased performance, higher energy bills, premature failures, and safety hazards. By investing in regular maintenance, you not only protect your investment but also contribute to energy conservation and environmental sustainability. | environmental_science |
https://www.blattnercompany.com/news/the-cleanie-awards-honors-blattner-company-as-the-2021-company-of-the-year-enterprise-silver-place-winner | 2023-06-08T17:23:14 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-23/segments/1685224655092.36/warc/CC-MAIN-20230608172023-20230608202023-00054.warc.gz | 0.915347 | 467 | CC-MAIN-2023-23 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-23__0__260168461 | en | Avon, Minnesota – Blattner Company has been selected as The Cleanie Awards® Silver place winner for the 2021 Company of the Year (Enterprise).
The Cleanie Awards is the leading awards program celebrating people and brands driving the clean energy economy. The program recognizes innovation excellence and business leadership. Individuals and organizations across many facets of the industry submitted nominations.
This award, judged by industry peers, signifies how influential Blattner is in powering a cleaner, healthier and more vibrant world for all of us. Blattner recently celebrated an industry milestone of 50,000 installed megawatts of wind and solar power, which is enough clean energy to power 14 million households or 1 billion light bulbs. The carbon emissions saved is the equivalent of removing 21 million cars off the road and will prevent 51 billion gallons of water from being used for traditional fossil fuel energy creation. That impact will only continue to grow as Blattner continues to build additional solar and wind power.
“We are extremely proud to recognize this year’s innovators, influencers and advocates, who work tirelessly to champion the clean energy transition in what will be a decisive decade,” said Randee Gilmore, executive director, The Cleanie Awards. “We continuously see nearly a triple-digit increase in the number of submissions year over year, which demonstrates industry growth and the desire for a comprehensive amplification platform for climate solutions.”
Building on more than a century of innovation, Blattner is a leading renewable energy contractor of wind, solar and energy storage projects throughout the United States.
Blattner Company was selected by a cohort of peers including judges and leaders representing a cross section of the cleantech and renewable energy sectors, including Alison Mickey, Fluence; Ayanna Nibbs, Cohn Reznick Capital; Emily Chasan, Generate Capital; Kirsten Williams, DC Water; Paul Quinlan, Scott Madden, Inc.; Remy Pangle, REpowering Schools; Ron DeLyons, Creekwood Energy Partners LLC; Raheleh Folkerts, Lightsource bp; Thiam Giam, Black & Veatch Management Consulting, LLC; and Zadie Oleksiw, Clearway Energy Group.
For a full list of winners, visit thecleanieawards.com. | environmental_science |
https://www.geoengineeringmonitor.org/2020/10/grounding-teach-in-on-geoengineering-a-false-solution-to-the-climate-crisis/ | 2024-02-22T19:48:53 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473824.45/warc/CC-MAIN-20240222193722-20240222223722-00394.warc.gz | 0.89477 | 251 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__29808619 | en | On October 1, 2020, the Hands off Mother Earth (HOME) Campaign conducted its first grounding teach-in on geoengineering technologies – techno-fixes whose proponents have long claimed to be able to solve the climate crisis. On the other hand, global grassroots movements for climate justice have argued that these projects are expensive as well a dangerous distraction designed in ways that ignore power relations at a global scale and importantly, the deeper structural questions regarding the roots causes of the climate crisis. This (101) session critically unpacked, from a climate justice perspective, three intersections of geoengineering: its techno-financial /deterministic roots and ideology, human rights and social justice questions, and finally, global governance and sovereignty.
Silvia Ribeiro, ETC Group, Tom Goldtooth, Indigenous Environmental Network (IEN) and Dr. Max Ajl, Tunisian Observatory for Food Sovereignty (OSAE) led the teach-in which was loosely facilitated by the HOME campaign coordinator, Ruth Nyambura.
Download the presentations in PDF format below:
Information materials on the HOME Campaign and geoengineering
Presentation of Silvia Ribeiro, ETC Group
Presentation of Tom Goldtooth, IEN (to be uploaded) | environmental_science |
https://www.infracomfort.co.nz/2023/winter-heating-options/ | 2024-03-01T16:41:49 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947475422.71/warc/CC-MAIN-20240301161412-20240301191412-00628.warc.gz | 0.91912 | 560 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__377886 | en | Preparing for the winter season should not be left until the last moment. Taking the time to make informed decisions means you won’t get any surprises with your winter comfort, or with your monthly electricity bill.
Are you looking for an alternative heating solution with low running costs, able to quickly warm up a room to the desired comfort level?
When it comes to modern heating appliances, there are plenty options to choose from. Here we will look at the options available to heat your home this winter.
- Electric heaters may do the job for smaller rooms but using them regularly will increase your electricity bill substantially.
- Gas heaters are a cheaper choice, but they release fumes and create moisture. They are also a fire risk if not properly maintained.
- Using wood for heating is expensive and furthermore, eco compliance regulations are getting stricter. Burning wood releases harmful fumes.
- Far-infrared heat panels are the latest breakthrough in winter heating appliances. Infrared heaters warm objects and not the air in the room.
So, what’s so good about infrared heating?
Firstly, infrared heating is absolutely eco-friendly. Far-infrared heat panels produce a completely natural form of heating with no CO2 emissions. They provide a 100% natural energy conversion and reduce the carbon footprint of our homes via lower energy consumption.
Infrared heat panels are cheaper to operate than the alternatives, especially when using zone heating. The heat up a room quickly (as they are not heating the air). Individual far-infrared panels can be turned on only when the rooms are in use. When used correctly, far-infrared heating may reduce your heating bill by up to 65%.
Infracomfort far-infrared heat panels can be operated through smart thermostats. They can be turned ON/OFF with a timer, or even used from a distance via smart phone. Infrared Heaters require no maintenance and in many cases can be installed easily without the need of a technician. Far-infrared heat panels have no moving parts thus almost nothing can go wrong with them.
Far-infrared heat panels have a long life expectancy. Compared to the conventional heating device, the temperature of the heating element is relatively low. Under this condition, the life of heater material is extremely long and the whole unit can reach a 30-year lifespan.
If you are searching for a cost-effective and eco-friendly heating method, then using Infracomfort far-infrared heating should be the first on your list.
The flexibility of Infracomfort far-infrared heating makes it the ideal choice to suit the many different room sizes and living spaces found in homes, schools, communities, workplaces and commercial buildings throughout New Zealand. | environmental_science |
https://altosquare.com/products/solar-pool-purifier-water-pool-ionizer | 2022-10-01T18:04:58 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-40/segments/1664030336880.89/warc/CC-MAIN-20221001163826-20221001193826-00617.warc.gz | 0.899069 | 333 | CC-MAIN-2022-40 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2022-40__0__40940066 | en | Is your pool clean? could it be cleaner? Bleached hair or swimsuits, dry skin or itchy eyes?
Have you counted the cost of the chemicals you use to keep your pool clean?
This Solar Powered Pool Ionizer Purifier is safe, effective & here to fix just that.
Lower Chlorine: It can reduce your chlorine, its limitless power derived from the sun, and provides buoyancy to the largest copper anode, increased lifespan, saving your money on replacements.
Algae Resistant: The solar pool ionizer can kill and regulate the growth of algae self-sufficiently never using any expensive batteries and chemicals.
Easy to Use: Just drop it in & done. The solar pool ionizer is extremely self-sufficient and just needs a little bit of attention, all you need to do is replace the copper anodes.
Health Choice: It is a much healthier option for your body and completely no need to worry about itchy skin, red eyes, or bleached hair.
Solar Powered: Environmentally friendly solar panels are low-maintenance and save the electric fee.
Suitable for all pool types: underground, above ground, salt water and chlorine pools. Also works on all floors including concrete, pebble, quartz, tile.
1 x Solar Pool Ionizer
1 x Cleaning Brush
1 x Tool
Material: plastic + electronic components
Size: 160*160mm ( 6.29”*6.29”)
Principle: Let the sunlight and ionization process clean the swimming pool. | environmental_science |
http://www.lipotec.com/en/home/ | 2017-06-22T20:23:31 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-26/segments/1498128319902.52/warc/CC-MAIN-20170622201826-20170622221826-00280.warc.gz | 0.905362 | 168 | CC-MAIN-2017-26 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2017-26__0__73696779 | en | A wide variety of natural sourced exfoliants, ideal for cosmetic products as an environment friendly alternative to microplastic beads. Excellent scrubs that help remove dead cells and impurities at the skin surface to let the beauty arise.
Sourced from renewable and biodegradable ingredients, ACTISCRUB™ physical exfoliants are an environment-friendly solution for cosmetic formulations addressed to remove dead cells and impurities offering an alternative to synthetic solutions, such as plastic microbeads.
Lipotec develops active ingredients for the personal care industry and supplies them to leading cosmetic product manufacturers and brand owners worldwide.
The information contained in Lipotec's intranet is exclusively addressed to personal care industry professionals and access to specific data will be granted according to user profile (customers, distributors, consultants, media...). | environmental_science |
http://juliusegghg.tinyblogging.com/Termite-Control-Estimate-for-Beginners-20657247 | 2019-05-27T14:12:39 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-22/segments/1558232262600.90/warc/CC-MAIN-20190527125825-20190527151825-00499.warc.gz | 0.931127 | 1,019 | CC-MAIN-2019-22 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2019-22__0__6880065 | en | The Ultimate Guide To Termite Control Estimate
Assess your home's surrounds shrubs or garden beds should be well clear of the building border and not cover weep holes (the small openings left between bricks to allow water drain out).
If you are building a new house, certain construction methods and materials can reduce the termite risk considerably.
Not known Incorrect Statements About Termite Control Effectiveness
The Building Code of Australia requires that all new homes and extensions possess a hierarchical management program in place in most areas (except Tasmania, where the termite risk is negligible). Homes constructed after July 1995 should have a'durable notice' of treatment corrected to a prominent position in the building (near the meter box or the entrance to a crawl space), listing the:.
Termite shields (also known as ant caps) don't prevent termite activity but bring it into the open, since it is simpler to discover their mud shelter tubes on the alloy caps.
The Buzz on Termite Control Effectiveness
Woven stainless steel mesh or finely graded stone particles can be installed in a concrete slab and pit walls around pipe openings and so on, so termites can't undergo those concealed entry points.
Composite systems such as treated plastic or cloth sheets contain chemicals that will degrade over time, unlike actual physical barriers.
Reticulation systems involve piping fitted under slabs and around the edges of a building with access points for injection of insecticide.
10 Simple Techniques For Termite Control Effectiveness
Chemical barriers are applied under and around a concrete slab or around the building piers or footings.
Synthetic pyrethroids like permethrin or bifenthrin are generally less toxic than many of the prior insecticides that were banned in most parts of Australia in the mid 1990s.
Fipronil and imidacloprid are particularly effective against termites since they are non-repellant. This means the termites will travel through the treated zone without detecting the compound and take it back into the colony, therefore contaminating other termites.
Arsenic trioxide dust is a really toxic substance and a confirmed carcinogen for humans. It was commonly used in the past in termite dusting processes but has been replaced with less toxic insect growth regulators (IGRs) like triflumuron. This distinctive blue powder is quite effective, but may require somewhat longer than arsenic dust to wipe out a colony.
The Only Guide for Termite Control Electronic
This is a somewhat less toxic but more expensive alternative that'll require routine maintenance. Monitoring and bait stations use very tiny amounts of a low-toxic IGR which has an effect on the termite's exoskeleton and kills them without harming other animals or humans.
The insect manager places a baiting station (or many ) in the vicinity of the home, usually in-ground.
The station is checked frequently, repositioned if needed and when termites are found, bait is added to replenish the station.
Termite Control Effectiveness for Dummies
The termites take the bait back to their nest and disperse it through grooming, until the colony is eventually wiped out.
There's no guarantee the termites will really find the lure, so it's generally not a fantastic idea to utilize a monitoring and lure station as your only approach to termite management.
The average price of a termite treatment is projected at around $1300 to $1500 plus potentially several thousand dollars for repairing damage to the building. Should you need termite treatment:
Termite Control Electronic Can Be Fun For Everyone
Phone several pest managers before committing to one you are unlikely to get detailed information or a particular cost on the phone, but you ought to be able to find a general impression about the company, their termite treatment and a range of prices you can expect.
Compare the optionsquotes, quotations and professionalism of the various pest managers and decide on the company that you're most comfortable with.
The 15-Second Trick For Termite Control Electronic
Consider the type of solutions the treatment will supply the cheapest quote might only rid you of termites in the brief period while a more expensive integrated strategy provides better protection from future termite attacks.
Can they possess a current licence and why not try this out up-to-date professional indemnity and public liability insurance certificates
Will the pest inspector also do the termite treatment, if one is needed If not, how experienced is the person who is doing the termite treatment
Termite Control Effectiveness Things To Know Before You Get This
Can they match, or exceed, the requirements of the Australian Standard (AS4349.3 provides guidelines for inspecting buildings for wood insects; AS3660.2 copes with termite management in and around existing buildings and constructions ).
Just how long will the inspection take (An ordinary home should take just two to three hours to inspect, including the time the inspector spends discussing the issues with you.) | environmental_science |
https://creativepiping.com/tag/the-green-advantage-of-forged-fittings/ | 2024-04-19T02:33:25 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-18/segments/1712296817253.5/warc/CC-MAIN-20240419013002-20240419043002-00002.warc.gz | 0.91541 | 695 | CC-MAIN-2024-18 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-18__0__67479908 | en | Environmental Impact of Forged Fittings: Sustainability and Benefits
Environmental Impact of Forged Fittings: Sustainability and Benefits: In today’s world, the environmental impact of industrial processes and products has gained significant attention. Forged fittings, known for their strength, durability, and versatility, play a crucial role in various industries. This blog explores the environmental impact of forged fittings, discussing their sustainability, benefits, and contributions to a greener future.
The Green Advantage of Forged Fittings:
Forged fittings are manufactured through a forging process that involves shaping heated metal into the desired form using compressive forces. This process, when compared to other manufacturing methods, offers several environmental benefits:
- Material Efficiency: Forging produces less waste compared to other methods like machining or casting. It optimizes material use, reducing scrap and minimizing the demand for raw materials.
- Energy Efficiency: Forging requires less energy than many alternative methods, making it an energy-efficient choice. The controlled heating and shaping process result in lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reduced Emissions: The reduced energy consumption and efficient material usage in forging translate to lower emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants compared to other manufacturing processes.
- Longevity and Durability: Forged fittings are renowned for their strength and durability, which leads to longer service lives. This longevity minimizes the need for frequent replacements, conserving resources and reducing waste.
Sustainable Material Choices:
Forged fittings are available in various materials, each with its own environmental impact. Some materials, like high nickel alloys and stainless steel, offer exceptional corrosion resistance, reducing the need for maintenance and replacement. By selecting materials that withstand harsh conditions without deteriorating, industries can extend the lifespan of their systems and minimize environmental impact.
Application Areas and Environmental Benefits:
- Oil and Gas Industry: Forged fittings used in pipelines, refineries, and offshore platforms contribute to reliable and leak-free systems, reducing the risk of spills and environmental contamination.
- Power Generation: In power plants, forged fittings help maintain efficient and reliable steam and gas systems, ensuring minimal energy wastage and reduced emissions.
- Chemical Processing: By withstanding corrosive chemicals and high pressures, forged fittings in chemical plants contribute to safe operations and prevent leaks that could harm the environment.
- Aerospace: In aircraft engines, forged fittings improve reliability, reducing maintenance requirements and minimizing the environmental impact of frequent part replacements.
Recycling and End-of-Life Considerations:
When forged fittings reach the end of their service life, they can often be recycled and repurposed. Their durability and material quality make them valuable for secondary uses, further minimizing waste and the demand for new raw materials.
Industry Regulations and Standards:
Environmental regulations and standards push industries toward more sustainable practices. Forged fittings manufacturers often adhere to strict guidelines that prioritize responsible material sourcing, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.
Forged fittings stand out not only for their mechanical properties but also for their positive environmental impact. Their energy efficiency, material optimization, and durability contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. As industries increasingly recognize the significance of environmental responsibility, the choice of forged fittings aligns with a commitment to minimizing the carbon footprint and ensuring the long-term health of our planet. | environmental_science |
http://www.capeconsults.org/announcements/september-song/ | 2016-02-12T11:58:56 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-07/segments/1454701163729.14/warc/CC-MAIN-20160205193923-00120-ip-10-236-182-209.ec2.internal.warc.gz | 0.943869 | 340 | CC-MAIN-2016-07 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2016-07__0__115554407 | en | One of the many purposes of arts education is to heighten learners’ awareness of built and natural environments. City children don’t have many opportunities to encounter natural environments, or the animals that inhabit them – with the exception of squirrels, robins, pigeons, sparrows, and starlings. The last three are all invasive species considered to be pests, and are among the few birds unprotected by Federal Law. Or as satirist Tom Lehrer sings, “… it’s not against any religion / To want to dispose of a pigeon.” But even these feral invasive species have a peculiar relationship with humans, living wild and almost unnoticed amongst us.
City children encounter very few native birds other than robins – except in September, when kids can glance up on their way to school and see a variety of migrating birds winging it South. What do humans look like from these migrating birds’ point of view? Like tiny blips on the collective ancient bird unconscious that has watched rivers and mountains, forests and plains, deserts and in-land seas ebb and flow in and out of existence over time. In T. H. White’s wonderful novel The Once and Future King, the wizard Merlyn transforms an awkward boy named Wart into a migrating snow goose, so that the future King Arthur can see for himself that national political boundaries are imaginary.
I wish Merlyn would transform some awkward boys in Washington into snow geese flying over the Middle East, where they would see millions of human refugees migrating across imaginary boundaries against their displaced wills.
Founder and Lead Consultant
Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE) | environmental_science |
https://www.philanthropyroundtable.org/the-song-in-its-soul/ | 2024-02-21T18:14:36 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2024-10/segments/1707947473524.88/warc/CC-MAIN-20240221170215-20240221200215-00411.warc.gz | 0.924152 | 1,040 | CC-MAIN-2024-10 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2024-10__0__115895057 | en | It is seldom easy to hear.
A missing note can be still harder to detect.
Even in a forest.
According to a 2019 article in the magazine Science, North America has 30% fewer birds than in the 1970s. That’s a loss of 3 billion birds. Even common birds such as sparrows and blackbirds are in decline. Forests bristling with the chorus of avian life have slipped out of harmony incrementally, imperceptibly.
The news about songbirds has not been easy to hear
A bird can be weightlessly cradled in the palm of our hand. This fragile element of nature leverages a quickened metabolism against expansive geography in migrations spanning thousands of miles. It is particularly vulnerable when stretched to its physical limit on seasonal migrations. This feat of athleticism ends abruptly in the absence of nutrition. Birds also encounter risks to reproduction and survival in breeding grounds and in wintering grounds.
During migrations, birds adhere to the same flight path. They rely on the trail followed by their ancestors generation by generation. And they can occasionally be challenged to navigate a changing landscape.
The journey, like a long car trip, relies on predictable refueling stops. Without periodic rest areas, their voyage will be curtailed. Stopover points offer essential nourishment.
If a rest stop is closed, the avian migration ends. Period. There is no second chance. No do over. No orange-coned detour. No alternate route. No roadside assistance. The songbird has one chance to get it right. Restful stopovers with ample food are indispensable. Otherwise, silence.
Migratory corridors and stopover sites for small songbirds have been difficult to identify. The birds fleetingly drift through, seldom alighting long enough to be counted. On the other hand, breeding grounds and overwintering grounds are comparatively easy to monitor. Birds settle in for the season. There, they can be identified, observed and tallied. The inability to gather solid data on stopover points for songbirds has hampered efforts to preserve this essential geography.
Funding for a flight path resembling I-75 from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to southern Florida is not likely. And even if a single path could be protected for a single species or a suite of similar species, other flight paths would remain at risk. The protection of multiple, sprawling flight paths resides well beyond the art of the possible. Stopover points would be easier to protect.
Weighty tracking systems with battery packs have been harnessed to large birds. They produce vital data on flight patterns and stopovers. This technology, however, is of no avail to researchers of smaller birds comprising the greater proportion of avian migration.
New technology promises new hope.
Recently, so-called nanotags have enabled even small songbirds to be tracked. A nanotag is minuscule. Weighing one-fifth of a paperclip, it can be secured unobtrusively to the backs of our smallest feathered friends. Nanotags are just now enabling the tracking of small songbirds, and their elusive stopover points are for the first time coming into view.
This is a game changer.
Nanotag technology places philanthropy on the cusp of a new strategy. With data derived from nanotags, philanthropic funding can now be targeted with precision on the conservation of defined stopovers, essential refueling stations, and biological linchpins.
Coordination among ornithology, land trusts, and philanthropy awaits. This collaboration will optimize funding like never before; perhaps in the nick of time.
Even land trusts serving small areas or regional watersheds can now play a vital role in international and transcontinental migrations. The national and international players in land conservation have always had bird migrations in their purview. But never before have small land trusts been able to play such a prominent role on the national and international stage. With data derived from nanotags, the small land trusts collectively become active participants in securing a flight path far beyond their jurisdiction.
This opportunity to preserve songbirds becomes even more affordable with the use of conservation easements. Under a conservation easement, title to the land is not purchased. Rather, only the right to preserve a specific habitat is secured. The landowner continues to own the land while committing to preserve the habitat associated with a stopover. The cost for a land trust to acquire a conservation easement is far less than the cost of title to the land. Conservation easement donations are also incentivized by tax deductions.
Rules for the art of the possible in service of a fragile and beloved gift of nature have changed. Philanthropy is perched on the frontier of a shared adventure with ornithology and strategic land conservation.
This isn’t exactly about the forest; it’s about the song in its soul.
John Rohe practiced law in Michigan, with an emphasis on land and habitat conservation, for three decades before joining Colcom Foundation in 2006. His educational background is in engineering and law. | environmental_science |
http://www.watercareirrigationandwell.com/Index.asp | 2023-02-08T07:38:23 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-06/segments/1674764500719.31/warc/CC-MAIN-20230208060523-20230208090523-00349.warc.gz | 0.933634 | 216 | CC-MAIN-2023-06 | webtext-fineweb__CC-MAIN-2023-06__0__223308618 | en | We have knowledge of troubleshooting and programming all major manufacturers controllers.
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