Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Native vs Tropical Milkweeds When I interviewed 7 scientists who specialize in monarch butterflies, they all raised concerns about how Mexican/ Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) can disrupt the migration of endangered monarch butterflies in the northern regions of America and Canada. Tropical milkweed is a perennial plant native to South and Central America but found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is known for its vibrant flowers and is favored by gardeners for attracting monarch butterflies. These seeds and plants are sold on the internet even at home centers and nurseries all over the world. However, those tropical milkweeds which are not native to the colder regions can have negative effects on migratory monarchs. Their extended blooming period can disrupt monarch migration and breeding patterns since the senescence of native milkweeds likely is one of the cues for the fall and time for migrations. Additionally, tropical milkweeds have other potential negative effects including parasites, and diseases for these monarchs. As the practice of plating milkweeds is getting popular, we wanted to check public knowledge of tropical milkweeds. Therefore, we asked 103 participants to visually identify the pictures of local and tropical milkweeds. With the pictures of flowers, nearly 40 percent of people wrongly identified the tropical milkweed. Without saying the identification of seeds and pods is extremely difficult. Nearly 70% of participants could not tell the differences. The majority of the native milkweed flowers are powder pink, greenish cream white, or off-white and relatively easy to identify. However, one of the native milkweeds of North America called the Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) and Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) resemble each other and both have bright orange flowers. Here is how to identify Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) from native Butterfly Milkweed: Color of flowers: The flowers of most popular tropical milkweeds are usually two colors; RED AND ORANGE (with an orange corona and red corolla). Also, the flowers of another popular tropical milkweed, Silky Gold, are yellow. On the other hand, the native butterfly milkweed has just orange flowers. Sap: When the leaves or stem of tropical milkweeds are broken, it releases a milky sap. Leaves: The plant has narrow and pointed leaves. While it prefers moist soils and thrives in disturbed areas, it is commonly found in gardens. * if you are about to buy unknown plants on the internet or at a shop, it is best to read the tag, check on the internet, or use a plant identifying app for more accurate verification. Milkweed identification guide: www.monarchparasites.org Milkweed Identification Guide | monarchhealth Use the following photos and key characters to determine if you have any of these common milkweed species at your site.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Microplastics Are Reaching Our Bones Previous Next Microplastics Are Reaching Our Bones What has been found - Scientists have discovered tiny plastic particles lodged deep inside human bones, cartilage, and the soft discs between vertebrae. These pieces are extremely small, about the size of a grain of dust or smaller. - In bone tissue, there were on average a couple dozen particles per gram of tissue. Cartilage had slightly more, and the soft cushions between spinal bones had the most, with several dozen particles per gram. - The plastics identified are common ones we use every day, such as polypropylene (packaging and clothing fibers), polystyrene (foam cups and containers), and EVA (shoes, mats, and sports gear). - Another team studied bone marrow, the spongy tissue that makes blood cells, and found microplastics in every sample. The levels varied, but on average there were dozens of micrograms of plastic per gram of marrow. - In simple terms, plastic pollution is no longer just in the environment; it is now being found inside the very structures that make up the human body. Study 1: Bone, cartilage, and intervertebral discs study (Environment International, 2025) - Samples came from postmortem human tissues. - Researchers examined osteochondral tissue (bone + cartilage) and intervertebral discs. - The study included a relatively small number of donors, but every type of tissue tested contained microplastic particles. Study 2: Bone marrow study (Environmental Research, 2024, PubMed ID: 39079299) - Samples were collected from 16 human bone marrow specimens. - Microplastics were detected in all 16 samples. Possible health implications - The presence of microplastics in bones and bone marrow suggests they are entering deep into body tissues, likely via blood circulation. - They may affect bone health through several pathways: * Causing inflammation * Disrupting the balance of bone remodeling (more breakdown versus less formation) * Affecting stem cell viability in bone marrow, which is important for regenerating bone and supporting the immune system * In animal studies, exposure to certain microplastics was linked with weaker bone structure, slower bone growth, and changes in bone micro-architecture. Unknowns and Caveats - Human health risk: Microplastics are now confirmed in human bone, cartilage, intervertebral discs, and bone marrow, but it is not yet known whether these particles cause disease in living people. - Study limitations: The findings so far come from a small number of postmortem human tissue samples and 16 bone marrow samples, along with supporting evidence from animal studies. The long-term effects on bone strength, marrow function, and overall human health are still uncertain. Sources: https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/S0160412025000674 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39079299/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39079299/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/S0160412025000674 #microplastics #microplastic #pollution #plastic #plasticpollution #pfas #EDC #human #environment #animals #sustainable #sustainability #ctdp #connectingthedotsproject #sustainable #ecofriendly #protection

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Zimbabwe's Decision to Cull 200 Elephants Amid Food Insecurity Zimbabwe's Decision to Cull 200 Elephants Amid Food Insecurity African Elephants Zimbabwe, facing severe food insecurity worsened by droughts, has decided to cull 200 elephants to provide meat for struggling communities. This move has sparked national and global debate, balancing human needs with wildlife conservation. With 7.7 million out of the 15.2 million population of Zimbabwe facing food shortages. According to the UN, the people are facing the worst food shortage in a decade. Reportedly, eight of Zimbabwe's 59 districts have acute malnutrition rates exceeding 5 percent. The government argues that culling will alleviate hunger and manage an elephant population of 100,000, which is straining resources and causing environmental damage. Critics, however, see this as a short-term fix that ignores underlying issues like poor agricultural policies and corruption. They also emphasize elephants' ecological importance and economic value through eco-tourism, urging alternative solutions like relocation and sustainable farming. The long-term solutions proposed by critics, such as mitigating climate change, ensuring political stability, investing in sustainable agriculture, and improving infrastructure, are essential. However, we must also recognize their urgent need for immediate assistance. The decision to cull elephants emphasizes the severity of Zimbabwe’s food crisis and the desperation for short-term relief. Here is the list of organizations that you can donate to help Zimbabwe. Save The Children: https://www.savethechildren.org/us/where-we-work/zimbabwe ... Doctors Without Borders: https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/.../where.../zimbabwe UNFPA: zimbabwe.unfpa.org Humanitarian Action Against Hunger: www.actionagainsthunger.org Zimbabwe | Action Against Hunger Help us save lives, empower communities, and ensure more children can grow up strong in Zimbabwe. Donate now. African Wild Life Conservation: https://www.awf.org/where-we-work/zimbabwe news.un.org Zimbabwe ‘facing worst hunger crisis in a decade’ Zimbabwe is facing its worst hunger crisis in a decade with half of the population – 7.7 million people – food insecure, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Tuesday. Sources: https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/08/1152936 https://www.wfp.org/countries/zimbabwe

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Prevention of exposure Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Aerosols & Household Cleaners Aerosol cans and household cleaners are commonly used in many households, but they pose a significant risk to the environment and human health if not disposed of properly. Aerosols often contain pressurized gases and hazardous chemicals, and household cleaners may contain toxic ingredients that are harmful to both people and the environment. Here's what you need to know about disposing of these items safely. Aerosol cans are used for a variety of products, including air fresheners, disinfectants, paint, hair spray, and even cooking sprays. These cans are pressurized and, if not disposed of properly, can be dangerous due to the risk of explosion. Disposal Methods for Aerosol Cans: Empty Cans : If the aerosol can is completely empty (no propellant or product left), it can usually be recycled with your regular curbside recycling. Check the recycling guidelines for your local area, as some places may require you to remove the nozzle or give instructions for preparation before recycling. Non-Empty Cans : If the can is still partially full or pressurized, it is considered hazardous waste and should not be thrown in the regular trash or recycling bin. Take It to a Hazardous Waste Disposal Site : Many communities have designated collection sites for hazardous waste, including aerosols. Contact your local waste management services or look for a nearby Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program for proper disposal. Use Up the Product : If possible, use up the remaining product until the can is empty, so it can be recycled safely. However, never puncture or incinerate aerosol cans, as they may explode due to the pressurized contents. Caution: Always store and dispose of aerosol cans according to the instructions on the label to avoid accidents. Never dispose of full or partially full aerosol cans in fire or regular trash bins. Disposal Options for Household Cleaners: Hazardous Waste Collection : If you're unable to use up or recycle the cleaner, take the remaining cleaner (and the container if necessary) to a local hazardous waste disposal site. Many communities host collection events or have drop-off locations for chemical waste. Contact Manufacturers : Some manufacturers may offer take-back programs, or they may provide specific instructions on safe disposal. Reach out to them for guidance. What About Cleaning Wipes? Cleaning wipes are usually made of synthetic fibers, which are not biodegradable. These should not be flushed down toilets, as they can clog pipes. Instead, dispose of them with your regular trash (though some local recycling programs may accept certain wipes, so check first). Some wipes are marketed as compostable, so check the packaging for disposal instructions. Key Takeaways: Aerosol Cans : Empty cans can usually be recycled. Full or partially full cans should be taken to a hazardous waste facility. Never puncture, crush, or burn aerosol cans. Household Cleaners : Never pour cleaners down drains or toilets. Use up the product or dispose of it at a hazardous waste collection site. Recycle empty, clean containers if possible. Cleaning Wipes : Dispose of synthetic cleaning wipes in the trash, not in the toilet. Compostable wipes can be disposed of according to their packaging instructions. Important Notes: Always check the labels of both aerosols and cleaners for specific disposal instructions. If in doubt, take these items to a Household Hazardous Waste Facility to ensure proper disposal and environmental safety.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Understanding the functions of pigments in plastics Plastic color is not simply a design choice. Pigments can affect a product’s appearance, resistance to sunlight and heat, opacity, electrical behavior, and, importantly, its ability to be sorted and recycled. A pigment is an insoluble colored particle added to a polymer. Unlike dyes, pigments do not dissolve into the plastic. They are dispersed through the resin during manufacturing to create color, whiteness, opacity, metallic effects, fluorescence, ultraviolet protection, or other functional properties. How well a pigment is dispersed matters because poorly dispersed pigment can form clumps, streaks, spots, or weak points in the finished plastic. Why pigments matter Pigment selection can influence several important plastic properties: Color strength: How much pigment is needed to create a desired color. Opacity: How well the plastic blocks light or hides the material underneath. Transparency: Whether light can pass through the plastic. Lightfastness: How well the color resists fading under indoor or artificial light. Weatherability: How well the color and plastic resist sunlight, heat, moisture, and outdoor aging. Heat stability: Whether the pigment remains stable during high-temperature plastic processing. UV protection: Whether the pigment helps absorb or scatter ultraviolet light that can degrade polymers. Dispersion: How evenly pigment particles distribute through the plastic. Recyclability: Whether the color allows sorting equipment to identify the polymer accurately. Organic and inorganic pigments Pigments used in plastics are often described as organic , inorganic , or carbon-based specialty pigments. Category General characteristics Common strengths Common limitations Organic pigments Usually carbon-based compounds, including many synthetic pigments Bright, intense colors; often useful for reds, oranges, yellows, and blues May be harder to disperse; can form agglomerates; some may have lower heat or weather resistance depending on chemistry Inorganic pigments Mineral or metal-based compounds, including metal oxides and sulfides Often strong opacity, heat stability, lightfastness, and weather resistance; generally easier to disperse May offer a narrower range of highly vivid colors; environmental and health profiles vary by compound Carbon black Carbon-based industrial pigment made through controlled incomplete combustion or thermal decomposition of hydrocarbons Strong black color, UV resistance, low cost, broad use in plastics Conventional carbon black can interfere with near-infrared sorting during recycling It is inaccurate to say that inorganic pigments are always more toxic than organic pigments or that they generally contain lead salts. Some historical pigments contained lead, chromium, cadmium, or other metals, but pigment safety depends on the specific chemical formulation, concentration, use, and applicable regulations. Many modern inorganic pigments, including titanium dioxide and iron oxides, are widely used in plastics. Manufacturers should evaluate pigment safety under relevant product, worker-safety, and environmental rules. Organic pigments Organic pigments are typically carbon-based compounds. They can be synthetic or derived from natural sources, though industrial plastic pigments are often manufactured for consistent color and performance. Organic pigments are valued for strong, vivid colors, especially in reds, oranges, yellows, blues, and greens. However, some organic pigments can be difficult to disperse evenly into plastic resin. When pigment particles clump together, they can create specks, streaks, inconsistent color, or defects in the final product. For an orange plastic product, manufacturers may choose among several families of organic orange pigments. The best choice depends on the needed shade, transparency, heat resistance, lightfastness, price, processing conditions, and end use. Organic pigments are not inherently better or worse for recycling than inorganic pigments. Their effect on recyclability depends on the pigment chemistry, concentration, color, additives, polymer type, and whether recycling equipment can accurately identify and sort the item. Inorganic pigments Inorganic pigments are often based on mineral compounds, metal oxides, sulfides, or other inorganic materials. They can provide good heat stability, weather resistance, lightfastness, and opacity. Titanium dioxide, written as TiO₂, is the most widely used white pigment in plastics. It scatters visible light efficiently, giving plastic whiteness, brightness, and opacity. It can also help reduce ultraviolet damage to some polymers by absorbing or scattering UV energy. Examples of inorganic pigment types include: Titanium dioxide for white and opaque plastics Iron oxides for red, yellow, brown, and black tones Chromium- and cobalt-based pigments for certain greens and blues Complex inorganic colored pigments for durable colors and specialty applications Certain mineral-based pigments used for heat-resistant or weather-resistant plastics For orange, inorganic options may include combinations of red and yellow pigments or specialized orange mineral pigments. The choice depends on desired color, opacity, processing temperature, cost, chemical compatibility, and product-safety requirements. Carbon black Carbon black is one of the most common black pigments used in thermoplastics. It is valued for strong color, low cost, ultraviolet resistance, and use in applications such as automotive parts, pipes, films, adhesives, coatings, and some antistatic or conductive formulations. Its particle size, surface area, and oil absorption can affect color strength, dispersion, conductivity, and UV performance. Carbon black can be used to create a deep black appearance or to darken and modify other colors. However, conventional carbon black can create a major recycling problem. Why black plastic is difficult to recycle Many material-recovery facilities use near-infrared , or NIR, sensors to identify plastic types such as PET, HDPE, PP, and PS. The sorter shines near-infrared light onto an item and analyzes the reflected signal to identify the polymer. Conventional carbon black strongly absorbs near-infrared light. As a result, the sensor may receive little or no usable reflected signal from a black plastic item. The machine may be unable to determine whether the item is PET, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, or another polymer. When sorting equipment cannot identify the plastic type, black items may be mis-sorted, mixed with incompatible plastics, or sent to disposal rather than recycling. The Association of Plastic Recyclers notes that NIR sorting is not reliable for black or very dark items with low reflectance because conventional carbon black absorbs the NIR wavelengths used for polymer identification. This problem is not limited only to pure black plastic. Very dark blue, brown, purple, green, and other low-reflectance colors can also be difficult for some sorting systems to identify. Alternatives to conventional carbon black Manufacturers can use NIR-detectable black pigments or infrared-reflective pigments that look black to the human eye but reflect enough near-infrared light for recycling equipment to identify the underlying polymer. These alternatives may include complex inorganic colored pigments, manganese ferrites, and other engineered colorants. Some products using NIR-reflective black pigments can be identified by NIR sorting equipment, improving the likelihood that the plastic can enter the correct recycling stream. However, an NIR-detectable pigment does not guarantee that an item will be recycled. Recycling also depends on: Local collection rules Item size and shape Polymer type Labels, adhesives, coatings, and multilayer construction Food contamination Sorting equipment Market demand for recycled material Whether the product is accepted by the local recycling program Brightly colored plastics and recycling Bright colors can also complicate recycling, particularly for plastics such as PET. Clear PET is highly valuable because it can be recycled into a wide range of products, including new clear packaging, fiber, strapping, and sheet material. Strongly colored PET may limit the color and quality of recycled output. A bright blue, red, green, or orange PET container may be recyclable in some systems, but it can be less flexible than clear PET because the recycled material may need to be used in darker products. Colored plastic does not automatically belong in the trash. Always follow your local recycling program’s accepted-material list. The larger issue is that color can reduce the market value and versatility of recycled resin, especially when colors are mixed or when a small amount of strongly colored material contaminates a clear stream. Design choices that improve recyclability Manufacturers can improve the recycling potential of plastic packaging and products by: Using clear or lightly tinted plastic when possible Avoiding conventional carbon black in packaging intended for NIR sorting Using NIR-detectable black pigments when a dark appearance is necessary Avoiding unnecessary dark colors, heavy pigments, and opaque layers Limiting mixed materials, multilayer structures, labels, sleeves, adhesives, and coatings Designing packaging around widely recycled polymers and local collection systems Testing products for NIR sortability and compatibility with recycling streams Using recycled-content resin where feasible Key takeaway Pigments provide color and performance, but they can also determine whether a plastic item can be identified and sorted for recycling. Carbon black is particularly important because it can make black plastic difficult for standard near-infrared sorting systems to detect. Clear, lightly colored, and NIR-sortable plastic designs are generally more compatible with existing recycling infrastructure than very dark or heavily pigmented items. Sources and Resources Association of Plastic Recyclers, Near Infrared Sorting of Whole Rigid Packages in the Plastics Recycling Stream Springer, Black Plastic Waste Classification by Laser-Induced Fluorescence SpecialChem, Pigments for Plastics Ti-Pure, Polymers, Light and the Science of Titanium Dioxide Lanxess, Black Pigment for Recyclable Plastic Packaging Shepherd Color, Infrared-Reflective Black Pigments and Plastic Recycling Safety and Legal Notice This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal, technical, environmental, recycling, manufacturing, or safety advice. Pigment safety, plastic recyclability, and local recycling acceptance vary by material, product design, recycling facility, and location. Always follow product labels, Safety Data Sheets, manufacturer guidance, and local recycling rules. Do not assume an item is recyclable because it is plastic or has a recycling symbol. Confirm acceptance with your local recycling program. Connecting The Dots Project does not guarantee that this information is complete, current, or suitable for every situation.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Oops, 404 Page Not Found TAKE ME HOME!

Feeding America Food assistance search engine National Location Link: Secure Hunger by Salvation Army USA Food assistance National Location Link: No Kid Hungry Food assistance National Location Link: Community Food Share Food assistance Colorado Location Link: California Association of Food Bank Food assistance California Location Link: Gardeneers Community garden with food support Chicago, IL Location Link: The Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County Food assistance Orange County, CA Location Link: The Foodbank of Southern California, CA Food assistance Southern California Location Link: Find Food Support with Google Food assistance search engine National Location Link: Free Food Giveaway from local community program Food assistance National Location Link: Meals On Wheel Food assistance National Location Link: Emergency Food Assistance Association Food assistance Colorado Location Link: Why Hunger Food assistance National Location Link: Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona Food assistance Arkansas Location Link: The Redwood Empire Food Bank Food assistance Santa Rosa, CA Location Link: Maui Food Bank Food assistance Wailuku, HI Location Link: USDA Hunger Hotline USDA National Hunger Clearinghouse Government National Location Link: Food Drive Food assistance National Location Link: Go Beyond Hunger Food assistance National Location Link: Free food-aid database Food assistance search engine Illinois Location Link: Farmer’s Market Food Nutrition Program Government National Location Link: Arizona Food Bank Network Food assistance Arkansas Location Link: Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties Food assistance San Mateo & Santa Clara counties, CA Location Link: The Northeast Iowa Food Bank Food assistance Northeast, IA Location Link: Food Pantries Food assistance National Location Link: Move For Hunger Food assistance National Location Link: Stop Hunger Food assistance National Location Link: Federal Food Assistance Program Government National Location Link: Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations Food assistance for Indian reservations in Oklahoma Oklahoma Location Link: Free Food Food assistance Arkansas Location Link: Alameda County Community Food Bank Food assistance Oakland, CA Location Link:

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Project Name ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back How to choose a right light bulb The cost-effectiveness of when to turn off lights depends on the type of bulb and the cost of electricity. The type of light bulb you use is important for several reasons, as all light bulbs have a nominal or rated operating life that is affected by how frequently they are switched on and off. Turning off lights when they are not needed can help save energy and reduce costs. (*The energy cost may slightly vary due to inflation.) Let's break down the costs associated with different types of bulbs according to the Department of 1) Incandescent Bulbs: - Incandescent bulbs are the oldest and least efficient lighting technology. - They convert 90% of the energy they use into heat, resulting in wasted energy. - A 60W incandescent bulb consumes 0.06 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per hour. - Operating the bulb for 1,000 hours would result in a consumption of 60 kWh. - Assuming an electricity cost of $0.11 per kWh, the cost of operating the bulb for 1,000 hours would be $6.60. 2) Halogen Bulbs: - Halogen bulbs are slightly more efficient than incandescent lights. - A 43W halogen bulb uses about 25% less energy than a 60W incandescent bulb to produce the same amount of light. - Operating one halogen bulb for 1,000 hours would cost approximately $4.73. 3) CFL Bulbs: - Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) are about 75% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. - The cost-effectiveness of turning CFLs off depends on their operating life, which is affected by how frequently they are switched on and off. - A general rule of thumb is to leave a CFL bulb on if you'll be out of a room for 15 minutes or less, and turn it off if you'll be gone for more than 15 minutes. - Operating a 15W CFL bulb for 1,000 hours would cost around $1.65. 4) LED Bulbs: - Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are the most efficient type of bulb. - The operating life of an LED is not affected by turning it on and off. - LEDs offer advantages such as instant full brightness, compatibility with occupancy and daylight sensors, and resistance to vibration. - Operating a 12W LED bulb for 1,000 hours would cost a mere $1.32. - It's important to note that these cost calculations are based on an assumed electricity cost of $0.11 per kWh. Additionally, electricity prices can vary depending on factors such as customer classes, rate schedules, peak and off-peak rates, and additional service charges or taxes imposed by utilities. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Did you know that over 90% of brides and grooms in Japan opt to rent their wedding gowns? Did you know that over 90% of brides and grooms in Japan opt to rent their wedding gowns? You might assume that cost-saving is the primary reason, but surprisingly, renting a (western-style) wedding dress or kimono in Japan is not cheap at all. The average rental fee for 4~5 hours of a ceremony is around $2000, and that's just for a wedding dress. As for grooms, the average cost of a tuxedo rental is an additional $800-1000. This raises the question: why not purchase one instead? According to surveys, the main reason for renting is the opportunity to wear a high-end gown that would otherwise exceed their budget if purchased. Also, with rental being the preferred choice, it's not surprising that most stores focus on offering rentals rather than selling. Now, you may wonder about purchasing from stores abroad. Well, it’s not that simple. Factors like the cost of flights, tax, and sizing issues make it challenging to purchase a dress. After all, this is a dress for a special occasion. You would want to avoid any surprise that an imported dress is not what you expected. Additionally, storage is a significant issue if you buy a gown, particularly in urban areas with limited space. An average home does not come with an enormous walk-in closet large enough to accommodate storing a gown with a long lace train. In general, wedding venues typically offer dress rentals for a fee. However, what surprised me was learning about the handling fee charged by venues for bringing your own purchased dress or one rented from outside. If you choose to use dresses from external sources or purchased elsewhere, you may incur a handling fee ranging from $300 to $700. On the other hand, the handling fee for a tux is about $80-250. In summary, my original intention for this article was to explore the concept of the circular economy. However, I was flabbergasted by these rental fees and became sidetracked. Anyway, the idea of renting gowns seems to make sense to me, regardless of the reasons why a person opts to rent. However, you only wear it for a half day. So, it is hard to justify the cost of $2000 in my opinion. #wedding #weddingvenues #circulareconomy #upcycle #recycle #reuse #conserve #japan #price #soexpensive #CTDP #ConnectingTheDotsProject #kanahutchens #conservation #sustainability #sustainable #Eco #environment ←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. 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→