Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling & Disposal of Mason Jars Mason jars, commonly made of glass, are relatively easy to recycle, and they can often be reused for various purposes, which contributes to sustainability. 1. Recycling Options Glass Recycling Centers : Mason jars can be recycled with other glass containers. Check if your local recycling facility accepts glass. Retail Take-Back Programs : Some retailers, like IKEA , have recycling programs that accept glass jars. Scrap Metal Yards : If the mason jars have metal lids, the metal can often be recycled at scrap yards. 2. Responsible Disposal Clean the Jars : Make sure the jars are clean and free from food residue. Some recycling centers may not accept dirty containers. Separate Lids & Rings : Separate the metal lids and rings from the glass jar, as they are often recycled differently. Metal lids can be recycled at scrap yards. 3. Sustainable Alternatives Reuse : Mason jars can be repurposed for a variety of uses: as storage containers, planters, candle holders, or for homemade gifts. Donate : If the mason jars are in good condition, you can donate them to thrift stores or arts & crafts centers. Upcycle : Use mason jars in DIY projects or for organizing items around the house. 4. Do Not Donate or Recycle If… Cracked or Broken : Mason jars that are cracked or broken should not be recycled or donated due to safety concerns. Contaminated : If the jars are heavily contaminated or have hazardous materials inside, dispose of them according to hazardous waste guidelines. ⚠ Important Safety Warning ⚠As with any recycling or disposal activity, please follow local regulations and ensure that mason jars are handled safely . Connecting The Dots Project will not be responsible for any damage, loss, injury, emotional damage, or harm that occurs during the disposal, recycling, or donation process of mason jars or any other items.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Underneath those patched rags (Boro) resides a heart of golden brocade. My mother taught me a Japanese proverb, "Underneath those patched rags (Boro) resides a heart of golden brocade." (襤褸は着てるが心は錦) The word, "Boro" is a traditional textile practice originating from impoverished rural Japan, particularly among peasants and farmers dating back to the early 1600s. Boro refers to textiles that are worn out, no longer usable, and garments that are old, torn, or patched. Boro textiles were born out of the practical need to extend the lifespan of fabrics and garments in an era where new textiles were not easily attainable for many people. During that era, garments were never discarded; instead, they were recycled persistently across generations. Through layering, stitching, and patching, individuals would mend and reinforce their clothing and other textiles. People employed a traditional stitching technique known as "Sashiko" on linen garments, both to preserve warmth and enhance durability. Over time, these mended and patched areas accumulated, creating the distinctive aesthetic that defines Boro. It is intricately interwoven with family history and memories, gaining indescribable beauty and significance. ** The pictures are vintage boro kimonos and a modern jacket with upcycled-boro garment. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Iconic 158 Cheery Blossom Trees in Washington D.C. to be Removed for Seawall Reconstruction 🌸 Iconic 158 Cheery Blossom Trees in Washington D.C. to be Removed for Seawall Reconstruction 🌸🌳 In 2024, the National Park Service (NPS) initiated a significant renovation project to reconstruct approximately 6,800 feet of the seawall along Washington, D.C.'s Tidal Basin and parts of West Potomac Park. This endeavor aims to address issues such as land subsidence and sea-level rise, which have led to frequent flooding of the surrounding pathways. As part of this project, 158 of the nearly 3,700 iconic cherry blossom trees were removed to facilitate the seawall's elevation and stabilization. The Tidal Basin, renowned for its annual National Cherry Blossom Festival, has faced challenges due to climate change, including higher tides and more extreme rainfall events. The seawall reconstruction involves raising its height by 4.75 feet and expanding the adjacent walkways from 8 to 12 feet to enhance visitor access and protect the area from future flooding. In August 2023, the NPS awarded a $113 million contract for the seawall's reconstruction, with work expected to commence in mid-2024 and conclude over a three-year period. While the removal of the cherry trees is a poignant aspect of the project, the NPS has committed to replanting these trees upon the project's completion to preserve the area's historic and aesthetic significance. Sources: apnews.com This reconstruction is crucial for safeguarding the Tidal Basin's infrastructure and ensuring the longevity of the cherry blossom tradition in Washington, D.C., for future generations. Sources ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Labels and Adhesives How Labels and Adhesives Affect Plastic Recycling Labels and adhesives can significantly impact the recycling process by contaminating plastic streams, reducing material quality, and complicating sorting and processing. 1. Issues Caused by Labels & Adhesives in Recycling - Contamination : Labels, inks, and adhesives can mix with the plastic during processing, degrading the quality of the recycled material. - Sorting Challenges : Non-recyclable labels can prevent proper identification of plastic types. - Residue Formation : Some adhesives do not fully dissolve or separate, leaving sticky residues that affect the melting process. - Processing Difficulties : Adhesives can clog machinery and create inconsistencies in the final recycled product. 2. How Labels & Adhesives Are Removed To ensure high-quality recycled plastic, the following steps are used to remove labels and adhesives: ✅ Mechanical Separation ✅ Washing & Chemical Removal ✅ Floating & Sink Process ✅ Adhesive Selection 3, What can consumers do?: Best Practices for Improving Recyclability Some labels (like shrink sleeves) are manually or automatically removed before shredding. Air classification or flotation techniques separate lightweight labels from heavier plastic. Plastics undergo hot water or chemical washing to dissolve adhesives. Caustic soda (alkaline solution) or surfactants break down adhesives for easier removal. After shredding, plastic flakes are placed in water where different materials separate based on density. Labels often float while heavier plastic sinks, allowing separation. Water-soluble adhesives (e.g., pressure-sensitive adhesives designed for easy removal) improve recyclability. Hot-melt adhesives with low melting points allow better separation. Use wash-off labels that detach in hot water (common in PET bottle recycling). Avoid permanent adhesives that do not dissolve in water-based recycling processes. Use laser-etched markings instead of printed labels to eliminate contamination. Design with compatible materials so labels do not interfere with the plastic’s recyclability. References: Contamination and Residue Formation : Hopewell, J., et al. (2009). "Plastics recycling: challenges and opportunities." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 364(1526), 2115-2126. Link Pivnenko, K., et al. (2015). "Material cycles and chemicals: challenges in recycling plastic waste." Environmental Science & Technology, 49(10), 6440-6455. Link Mechanical Separation and Washing : Song, Y., et al. (2009). "Recycling technologies for primary and secondary materials in electronic waste." Environmental Engineering Science, 26(2), 251-263. Link Ragaert, K., et al. (2017). "Recycling of multilayer plastic packaging materials: A review." Waste Management, 69, 24-58. Link Adhesive Selection and Best Practices : European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP). "Design for recycling guidelines." Link WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme). "Recyclability by Design." Lin Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back A 440-pound Blue Whale's heart The wonders of nature are truly astonishing. Mammalogy technicians at the Royal Ontario Museum preserved a blue whale's 440-pound heart that washed up in Newfoundland. Reportedly, a heart of a blue whale can weigh up to 1000 lbs, about the size of a dairy cow! The preservation process included extracting the heart, dilating it with formaldehyde to prevent flattening, shipping it to Germany, plastinating it by replacing water with a silicone polymer, and curing it with a gaseous agent. Wow! Photo: owned by Royal Ontario Museum Sources: https://www.wired.com/.../how-scientists-preserved-a-440.../ https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/fea.../big-hearted-blue-whale Photo: owned by Royal Ontario Museum ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Eco-Friendly Brewing The pervasive presence of these tiny pollutants in seemingly innocent items like tea bags and coffee pods is something unexpected for many. Despite the predominant use of natural plant fibers in their composition, certain brands resort to sealing these products with polypropylene to prevent paper filters from falling apart in hot water. Disturbingly, recent research from the National Health Institutes uncovered unsettling statistics: a single cup of tea brewed with a plastic tea bag contained a staggering 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoplastics. This revelation prompted me to explore zero-waste alternatives. Here are unique and effective replacements. Organic Hemp Cloth Filter Bags: Organic hemp cloth as a filter material presents a promising solution. Hemp is an annual plant and grows relatively fast. Additionally, hemp cultivation demands only half the water required for cotton. While organic cotton is also an excellent alternative, hemp boasts superior durability, potentially outlasting its counterparts with frequent use. The added advantage lies in hemp's natural antimicrobial properties, resisting mold and mildew and making it a hygienic cloth option. As for the maintenance of these bags, they need to be washed thoroughly with (ideally unscented) soap after use to keep them mold-free and the flavor of drinks fresh. Image By 39 Arita Micro-Porous Ceramic Filters: Intriguingly, porous ceramic filters featuring countless micron-wide holes have emerged as an alternative. Several brands offer variations of this technology, with overall positive reviews attesting to improved coffee or tea flavor. However, the inconvenience of cleaning this delicate filter can be a challenge depending on your patience level. While rinsing the filter with water post-use is a common practice, coffee grinds and oil may gradually build up in the pores over time. The care instructions (for a few of the ceramic filter products) state when the filter clogs, heat it in the oven or with the flame for 15 minutes to burn off the residue. Despite the maintenance, many enthusiasts appear to enjoy brewing coffee with the filter. In the meanwhile, a few proponents argue that ceramic filters excel in steeping tea since tea leaves are larger and unlikely to cause such clots. Metal Filters: This option stands out for its durability and the length of the product lifespan among all three choices. Unlike their counterparts, metal pour-over coffee filters allow certain oils and sediment to find their way into your cup. These elements contribute to the luxurious flavors cherished by many coffee lovers. For those who savor the sweet and robust nuances of coffee, metal pour-over filters are often the preferred choice. However, while cloth, paper, and ceramic filters adeptly capture cafestol, an oil associated with elevated cholesterol levels found in coffee, standard metal filters may not offer the same level of filtration. Anyway, the likelihood of elevated serum cholesterol levels is also influenced by the quantity of coffee consumed and an individual's sensitivity to caffeine. Additionally, it's worth noting that metal filters might subtly influence the taste of coffee or tea by leaving their mild metallic flavors. These are brilliant products for promoting zero-waste living. However, it is crucial to also consider the carbon footprint of maintenance throughout the product's life cycle including gas, water, and soap when choosing alternatives. Keep in mind that embracing sustainable living may occasionally demand some inconvenience, but the long-term benefits make it worthwhile! ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Metal Cooking Utensils and Knives 1. Metal Cooking Utensils Metal cooking utensils, such as spatulas, ladles, tongs, and spoons, are usually made from stainless steel, aluminum, or other metals. The best disposal method depends on the type of metal: Stainless Steel : Recycling : Stainless steel is highly recyclable and should be placed in your metal recycling bin. Make sure the utensils are clean and free of food residue before recycling. Non-Recyclable : If the utensil is damaged beyond repair or is made from a mix of materials (e.g., a plastic handle attached to a metal head), it may not be accepted in some curbside programs. In this case, check with your local recycling center. Aluminum : Recycling : Aluminum utensils can typically be recycled in curbside programs that accept aluminum, like aluminum foil or cans. Clean them thoroughly to avoid contamination in the recycling stream. Non-Recyclable : If the utensil is coated or contains non-aluminum materials, it might not be accepted in the recycling bin. Other Metals (e.g., Copper or Cast Iron) : Recycling : These metals can be recycled at specialized metal recycling centers. Check with local facilities to confirm if they accept specific types of metal. Disposal : If the utensils are rusted or broken and cannot be recycled, dispose of them in regular waste. 2. Knives Knives (whether kitchen knives, steak knives, or pocket knives) are typically made of stainless steel or other strong metals. Their disposal and recycling should be handled carefully: Stainless Steel Knives : Recycling : Most stainless steel knives can be recycled, but they should be taken to a metal recycling center rather than placed in your curbside bin due to their sharp edges. Check with local centers for specific recycling guidelines for knives. Sharps Disposal : Knives should never be placed in regular waste without proper packaging. Safely wrap the blade in cardboard or old newspaper and place it in a secure container to prevent injury to sanitation workers. Damaged or Broken Knives : Recycling : If the knife is beyond repair, it may still be recyclable as metal, but always contact a local recycling center to confirm whether they accept such items. Disposal : If the knife is not recyclable, follow safe disposal practices to prevent injury. Wrap it securely and dispose of it in regular trash. Important Notes: Sharps Safety : Knives should be safely wrapped or placed in a sturdy box to prevent injury when handling or discarding. Many local recycling centers will not accept sharp objects in their bins due to safety concerns. Reuse or Donate : If the utensil or knife is still usable, consider donating it to a local thrift store, shelter, or community organization, or repurpose it in another creative way. Check with Local Recycling Centers : Recycling guidelines can vary depending on your area, so it's always a good idea to check with your local recycling program for specific instructions on recycling metal cooking utensils and knives. By following these disposal and recycling practices, you can help ensure that metal utensils and knives are properly handled and diverted from landfills.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards How to Dispose of & Recycle Electric Lawn Mowers, Power Tools, Leaf Blowers, and Snow Blowers 1. Safety Warning: Proper Handling Before Disposal Remove Batteries – Lithium-ion and rechargeable batteries can be hazardous if not disposed of correctly. Always take them to a battery recycling drop-off (available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, or municipal e-waste centers). Drain Fluids (If Applicable) – Some electric machines (especially hybrid models) may contain lubricating oil or coolant . Improper disposal can cause environmental contamination. Never throw away machines with leftover fluids. Power Cord Safety – If cutting off a cord before disposal, ensure the machine is unplugged and safely handled to avoid electrical hazards. 2. Check Local E-Waste & Scrap Metal Recycling Programs Many cities have e-waste recycling programs or scrap metal drop-off sites for electric yard equipment. Contact your local waste authority or visit an EPA-approved recycling center for proper disposal options. 3. Manufacturer & Retailer Take-Back Programs Some brands and retailers ( Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy ) offer recycling or trade-in programs for old electric tools and equipment. Check with the manufacturer (e.g., DeWalt, Ryobi, Stihl) for possible recycling or refurbishment programs . 4. Donation or Resale (If Functional) If the tool still works, consider donating it to: Habitat for Humanity ReStore – Accepts power tools and electric yard equipment. Local Schools & Community Workshops – Vocational schools and makerspaces may accept tools for training. Charities & Nonprofits – Organizations that assist with home improvement projects may take donations. Sell or Give Away – List on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Freecycle, or Nextdoor . 5. Recycling & Safe Disposal of Components Scrap Metal Yards – Electric lawn mowers, snow blowers, and power tools contain valuable metal parts that can be recycled. E-Waste Centers – Internal circuit boards, wires, and electric motors should be disposed of at certified e-waste recycling facilities.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back 🪼 The Immortal Jellyfish: Unlocking the Secrets of Turritopsis dohrnii 🪼 🪼 The Immortal Jellyfish: Unlocking the Secrets of Turritopsis dohrnii 🪼 Turritopsis dohrnii In the vast and mysterious depths of the ocean, a tiny yet extraordinary creature defies the natural cycle of life and death. Turritopsis dohrnii , commonly known as the "immortal jellyfish," possesses a unique ability to escape aging and rejuvenate itself under certain conditions. This biological marvel has captured the attention of scientists worldwide, inspiring research into aging, cellular regeneration, and even potential medical breakthroughs for humans. Most jellyfish follow a straightforward life cycle: they hatch from eggs, develop into larvae, settle as polyps, grow into medusa (the adult jellyfish form), reproduce, and ultimately die. However, Turritopsis dohrnii has an astonishing ability— it can reverse its development . When faced with environmental stress, injury, or starvation, this jellyfish transforms its adult cells back into immature polyp cells, essentially starting its life over. This process, called transdifferentiation , allows the organism to bypass death and begin anew. While Turritopsis dohrnii is often labeled "immortal," this does not mean it is invincible. It can still fall prey to disease, predation, or environmental hazards. However, its ability to indefinitely reset its life cycle makes it unique among known organisms. Scientists are particularly interested in the jellyfish’s cellular mechanisms, which could provide valuable insights into human aging, tissue regeneration, and age-related diseases. The study of Turritopsis dohrnii has potential applications in regenerative medicine and aging research . By understanding the mechanisms behind its transdifferentiation process, scientists hope to uncover new ways to repair damaged tissues, combat degenerative diseases, and extend human lifespan. While these applications are still in their early stages, the jellyfish’s extraordinary biology offers a promising avenue for future discoveries. Conclusion Turritopsis dohrnii challenges our fundamental understanding of life and death, offering a glimpse into the possibilities of biological rejuvenation. As research continues, this tiny yet remarkable jellyfish could hold the key to unlocking the secrets of cellular regeneration, with profound implications for medicine and longevity. Sources: Piraino, S., Boero, F., Aeschbach, B., & Schmid, V. (1996). Reversing the life cycle: Medusae transforming into polyps and cell transdifferentiation in Turritopsis nutricula (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa) . The Biological Bulletin, 190 (3), 302-312. Martinez, D. E. (1998). Mortality patterns suggest lack of senescence in hydra . Experimental Gerontology, 33 (3), 217-225. He, J., Zheng, L., Fan, Y., Li, H., & Zhang, H. (2022). The genome of Turritopsis dohrnii provides insights into biological immortality . Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 119 (36), e2118763119. Schmich, J., Kraus, Y., De Vito, D., Graziussi, D., Boero, F., & Piraino, S. (2007). Induction of reverse development in two marine Hydrozoans . International Journal of Developmental Biology, 51 (1), 45-56. Miglietta, M. P., & Lessios, H. A. (2009). A silent invasion: DNA analysis reveals the spread of the "immortal" jellyfish Turritopsis dohrnii in the Atlantic Ocean . Biological Invasions, 11 (8), 1835-1844. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back The history of preserved food The history of preserved food dates back thousands of years and is closely tied to the development of human civilization, particularly in terms of food security, survival, and trade. Preservation methods have evolved over time, enabling people to store food for times of scarcity, extend shelf life, and transport it over long distances. Here's an overview of the key developments in the history of preserved food: 1. Ancient Preservation Techniques Early humans relied on various natural methods to preserve food. These techniques were largely driven by necessity and the need to deal with seasonal food availability. Drying : One of the earliest preservation methods. Sun-drying or air-drying fruits, meats, and grains removed moisture, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold. Examples include dried fish, jerky, and dried fruits like raisins. Salting : Salting was used by ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans to preserve fish and meat. Salt draws out moisture, which helps prevent spoilage. Salted fish and cured meats (like ham) were staples for long journeys or during winter months. Fermentation : Fermentation is an ancient method of preserving food by encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria. This process was used to preserve vegetables, milk, and grains, leading to foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, and beer. Fermentation not only preserves food but also enhances its nutritional content. Smoking : Smoking was used as both a preservation and flavoring technique. Meats like fish, beef, and pork were hung over smoke from burning wood or herbs, which not only dried the food but also imbued it with preservatives in the smoke, such as phenols and acids. 2. Middle Ages The Middle Ages saw advancements in food preservation, particularly in Europe, as a result of trade, exploration, and the need to store food for long winters. Pickling : This technique, which uses vinegar or brine, was popular for preserving vegetables and meats. It became common in many parts of the world, including Europe and Asia. Sugar Preservation : The use of sugar to preserve fruits became prominent during this time, with jams, jellies, and preserves becoming important foodstuffs, especially in colder months when fresh fruit was scarce. Honey Preservation : In addition to sugar, honey was also used as a preservative, especially for fruits, as it has natural antibacterial properties. 3. 17th and 18th Centuries: The Birth of Canning The 17th century saw significant progress in food preservation, particularly with the advent of canning. Canning : In the 1800s, French chemist Nicolas Appert is credited with inventing the process of canning. Appert discovered that food could be sealed in glass jars and heated to destroy microorganisms. This allowed food to be stored for extended periods without refrigeration. Appert's work was later refined, and metal cans began to replace glass jars. This method was especially important during military campaigns and for long voyages. 4. 19th Century: Refrigeration and Pasteurization The 19th century introduced more advanced techniques that would revolutionize food preservation. Refrigeration : In the early 1800s, iceboxes became popular for storing food at a low temperature. In the late 19th century, mechanical refrigeration was introduced, which allowed fresh food to be stored for longer periods and transported more widely. Pasteurization : In the 1860s, Louis Pasteur discovered that heating liquids (like milk and wine) to a specific temperature could kill harmful microorganisms. This process, known as pasteurization, became widely used for preserving liquids, particularly milk and juices, and preventing spoilage. 5. 20th Century: Industrialization of Food Preservation The 20th century saw the widespread adoption of various food preservation technologies, including chemical preservation and refrigeration. Freezing : The invention of home and commercial freezers in the mid-20th century revolutionized food preservation. Freezing foods like vegetables, meats, and prepared meals allowed them to retain their nutritional value and extend their shelf life. Chemical Additives : The use of preservatives like sodium benzoate, sulfur dioxide, and nitrates became widespread, particularly in processed foods. These chemicals helped to prevent spoilage and enhance the appearance and flavor of foods. Vacuum Sealing : The development of vacuum sealing and vacuum packaging allowed food to be stored for longer periods by removing air, thus reducing the growth of microorganisms. Ready-to-Eat Meals : The rise of convenience foods, such as canned soups, TV dinners, and dehydrated meals, became a hallmark of the 20th century. These products were easy to store and prepare, making them highly popular in industrialized nations. 6. Modern Day Preservation In today's world, food preservation continues to evolve, with an emphasis on health, sustainability, and new technologies. High Pressure Processing (HPP) : HPP is a relatively new method that uses high pressure to kill bacteria without the need for heat. This process helps to preserve the nutrients and flavor of fresh food. Freeze-Drying : Freeze-drying involves freezing food and then removing the water content under vacuum conditions. This method preserves the food's nutrients and flavor and is commonly used for emergency food supplies, camping, and astronaut food. Fermented and Probiotic Foods : With an increased focus on gut health, fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, and kimchi are popular today for their health benefits, in addition to their preservation qualities. Sources: "The Oxford Companion to Food" by Alan Davidson This comprehensive reference book provides in-depth explanations on various aspects of food history, including preservation methods and their evolution through time. "The Science and Fine Art of Food and Nutrition" by Arnold Ehret This work discusses the nutritional aspects of food, including preservation methods that contribute to maintaining the quality and health benefits of food. National Geographic - Food Preservation National Geographic offers articles that explain the science of food preservation, from ancient techniques to modern innovations. Website: National Geographic "Food in History" by Reay Tannahill This book is a thorough exploration of the history of food, including the methods used to preserve it throughout different eras of human history. "The History of Canning" - The National Canners Association (NCA) The NCA offers a detailed history of canning, from its inception to its widespread use in the 19th and 20th centuries. Website: National Canners Association History "Salt: A World History" by Mark Kurlansky This book delves into the role of salt in food preservation throughout history, discussing how it became integral to various cultures and their food systems. "Fermented: A Four-Season Approach to Paleo Probiotic Foods" by Jill Ciciarelli This book focuses on fermented foods, their role in food preservation, and how they have been integral to various cultures worldwide. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) FAO offers research and articles on modern food preservation techniques, especially focusing on sustainability and food security issues.Website : FAO - Food Preservation "The Preservation of Food" by J. G. Vaughan A detailed text that explains various traditional and modern food preservation methods, including freezing, pickling, and canning. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Green Burials *A warning, this post may be a bit morbid to some readers so if you are not in the mood of reading about burials and cemeteries, please skip the story. Green Burial is an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to laying the deceased to rest. It involves using biodegradable materials like shrouds or eco-friendly caskets, avoiding embalming and burial vaults, and allowing the body to decompose naturally. It aims to minimize the environmental impact of traditional burial methods and create a more natural and environmentally responsible way of handling human remains. Standard burial Q: What are the environmental impacts of cremation and lawn burial with a vault? A: Even though the carbon footprint would depend on the details of the types of materials such as the type of casket or the technology of the cremation site, cremation typically requires fewer resources compared to conventional lawn burial with a vault, as it does not involve the use of large amounts of land, concrete vaults, or metal caskets. Cremation does have an environmental impact and can generate pollution. The process involves burning fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases and contribute to air pollution. Additionally, cremation can emit mercury from dental amalgam fillings, which poses environmental concerns. While cremation is generally considered to have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional burial with embalming and burial vaults, it is not entirely free of environmental consequences. Q: How does one mark the actual green burial spot? A: Ideally by GPS. Q: What is the environmental concern with embalming? A: Embalming fluid typically consists of the carcinogenic compound formaldehyde. Q: Are there replacements for embalming fluid which are eco-friendly? A: Various formaldehyde-free embalming fluids are available, and among them is one entirely made of nontoxic and biodegradable essential oils. This particular fluid has recently received the GBC seal of approval. Q: Would the lot be reused? A: According to Green Burial Council, Green cemeteries have the option to reuse burial plots in the future if desired, similar to practices in many countries where graves are routinely "rented" and later refilled, sometimes transferring the bones to an ossuary. There are no legal restrictions against plot reuse in green burial cemeteries. Q: What happens to the burial during the winter in the cold regions? A: Burial in winter is possible depending on the frost levels and the preparation of the gravesite. Cold climates offer various methods for snow removal and thawing the ground, such as using coal fires, heaters, or thermal blankets. In some cases, graves can be dug in advance and filled with straw, compost, or other organic material, then capped for easy removal when needed. Q: Isn’t a concrete vault for the conventional lawn burial considered green? A: Concrete and metal vaults may be seen as "natural" by some, but their manufacturing and transportation contribute to significant energy use and carbon emissions. No state or province legally requires vault purchase; it's at the discretion of individual cemeteries. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back NASA’s EMIT Mission Maps Global Surface Minerals in Arid Regions Be Safe during Heat Waves Cooling Centers Across the U.S. Fall is around the corner, and temperatures are still rising all over the U.S. Unfortunately, global warming is merciless. Do you have a reliable cooling system at home? If not, do you have a plan or place to go in case the temperature rises unbearably hot? If you don't, remember this nationwide list of cooling centers. If you don't see a nearby facility, simply google "cooling center near me." For those with children, elderly people, or health-compromised individuals, ensure they have a cool space to stay. Here is the link. STAY HYDRATED AND SAFE!! https://drive.google.com/.../1fF54yonty2ZBviOCRkInr8.../view