Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Microplastics and Nano Plastics Previous Next Citation: D. Rotchell JM, Jenner LC, Chapman E, Bennett RT, Bolanle IO, Loubani M, et al. (2023) Detection of microplastics in human saphenous vein tissue using μ FTIR: A pilot study. PLoS ONE 18(2): e0280594. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal . pone.0280594 E. Horvatits T, Tamminga M, Liu B, Sebode M, Carambia A, Fischer L, Püschel K, Huber S, Fischer EK. Microplastics detected in cirrhotic liver tissue. EBioMedicine. 2022 Aug;82:104147. doi:10.1016/j.ebiom. 2022.104147. Epub 2022 Jul 11. PMID: 35835713; PMCID: PMC9386716 F. Sripada K, Wierzbicka A, Abass K, Grimalt J. O., Erbe A, Rollin H. B., Weihe P, Diaz G J, Singh R R, Visnes T, Rautio A, Odland O, Wagner M. A Children’s Health Perspective on Nano and Microplastics. Environmental Health Perspectives. 2022 https://doi.org/101/1289/EHP9086 G. Binder AM, Corvalan C, Pereira A, Calafat AM, Ye X, Shepherd J, Michels KB. Prepubertal and Pubertal Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure and Breast Density among Chilean Adolescents. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2018 Dec;27(12):1491-1499. doi:10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-17-0813. Epub 2018 Aug 29. PMID: 30158279; PMCID: PMC6541222 H. https://www.oecd-forum-org/posts/child-brain-develoment-in-pollution-sacrifice-zones-a-call-o-action- accessed 3_28_2023 I. Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta Ragusa A;Svelato A;Santacroce C;Catalano P;Notarstefano V;Carnevali O; Papa F;Rongioletti MCA;Baiocco F;Draghi S;D'Amore E;Rinaldo D;Matta M;Giorgini E J. Durable Plastic Goods: A Source of Microplastics and Chemical Additives in the Built and Natural Environments. Environmental Science & Technology Letters 2022, 9 (10) , 798-807. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.estlett.2c00417 Hua Zhou, Ye Wang, Yue Ren, Zhenhua Li, Xianggui Kong, Mingfei Shao, Haohong Duan.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Phytoremediation Phytoremediation Phytoremediation is a process that uses plants to remove toxins from the environment. Phytoremediation plants are often used to decontaminate soils all over the world. Their practical properties, including rapid and widespread growth, along with their ability to store most of their biomass in leaves and stems, make them highly efficient decontamination tools for places like Chernobyl and Fukushima sites. They are effective because the isotopes mimic essential nutrients absorbed naturally by these plants. Cesium imitates potassium, crucial for photosynthesis, while strontium resembles calcium, providing structural support to plants. This characteristic enables the disposal of absorbed radioactive material without uprooting the plants. For instance, sunflower roots pull both cesium 137 and strontium 90 out of the water and soil. After they've done their work at these sites, the sunflowers are disposed of as radioactive waste. The effectiveness of phytoremediation varies depending on the specific contaminants and soil conditions. Here are some plants commonly known for their potential to clean contaminated soil: 1. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus): Sunflowers are known for their ability to extract heavy metals, such as lead and radioactive isotopes, from contaminated soil. They are particularly effective at accumulating cesium, making them useful for remediation in areas affected by nuclear accidents. 2. Indian mustard (Brassica juncea): Indian mustard is known for its ability to extract heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, and cadmium, from contaminated soil. 3. Willow trees (Salix spp.): Willow trees are often used in phytoremediation projects due to their extensive root systems and ability to absorb various contaminants, including heavy metals and organic pollutants. 4. Poplar trees (Populus spp.): Poplar trees are known for their fast growth and extensive root systems. They can absorb a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals, solvents, and petroleum hydrocarbons. 5. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa): Alfalfa is a deep-rooted plant that can help in the remediation of soil contaminated with heavy metals, such as lead and arsenic. 6. Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides): Vetiver grass has a dense and fibrous root system capable of stabilizing soil and absorbing contaminants like heavy metals and organic compounds. 7. Ferns (various species): Certain ferns, such as the brake fern (Pteris vittata), have shown promise in removing arsenic from contaminated soils. It's important to note that while these plants have the potential to aid in soil remediation, the effectiveness of phytoremediation depends on various factors such as the specific contaminants, soil conditions, and site-specific considerations. Additionally, phytoremediation is often a slow process and may not be suitable for all types of contamination. Professional guidance and assessment of the specific situation are recommended before implementing phytoremediation projects. sources: https://www.frontiersin.org/.../10.3389/fpls.2020.00359/full https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10265-013-0607-x

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Home Our Mission Recycling Publications & Awards Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy Forum PFAS Contamination: Understanding the Risks and Challenges of Soil Remediation Recently, concerns over PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," have been making headlines since the initial report of a $10.3 billion settlement with 3M. PFAS is a group of human-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industrial and consumer products since the 1940s. PFAS is used to repel oil, grease, water, and stains, making them useful in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, water-resistant coatings, and firefighting foams. Some studies suggest that exposure to PFAS may be linked to health issues, including kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, low birth weights, immune system dysfunction, and developmental effects in infants and children. Today, let's think about the scenario if our backyard soil was contaminated with PFAS. I have been wondering how soil can be remediated after a house fire or fire fighting drills. First and foremost, it is essential to consult a specialist or the local EPA to get the soil assessed if you are concerned about contamination. The remediation processes are complex, extreme, costly, and often dangerous, as we are dealing with "forever chemicals." But that is how the chemical earned its notoriety with its characteristics to endure extreme conditions. Examples of currently known removal methods are the immobilization method using activated carbon (GAC), soil washing, thermal treatment (1000°C), deep excavation, and ex-situ methods. I must emphasize that these methods should only be implemented by professionals, so please DO NOT TRY THIS IF YOU ARE NOT A TRAINED SPECIALIST. Anyway, you may be wondering if raising the soil level can prevent contamination or you could still enjoy gardening veggies in your yard. Here is a summary of what I have read so far: raising the soil level in a garden will not directly address PFAS contamination. PFAS compounds can migrate through the soil and contaminate groundwater, which can then be taken up by plants. Simply adding more soil on top will not eliminate or reduce the presence of PFAS in the underlying soil. Therefore, if you live on or around contaminated grounds and wish to grow edible plants, it is advisable to use planting pots and avoid the use of well water for these plants. Sources: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.0c03058 https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../abs/pii/S0301479719316147 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5954436/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5954436/ ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Home Our Mission Recycling Publications & Awards Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy Forum Sustainable Businesses are booming Sustainable business practices are increasingly becoming a cornerstone of corporate strategy, driving growth, innovation, and profitability. Companies integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into their operations are not only contributing to societal well-being but also achieving superior financial performance. The Triple Play: Growth, Profit, and Sustainability A study by McKinsey & Company highlights that businesses excelling in integrating growth, profitability, and ESG factors—referred to as "triple outperformers"—deliver higher returns than their peers. These companies embed ESG into their core strategies, innovate sustainable products and services, and transparently report their ESG performance, leading to enhanced profitability and growth. mckinsey.com Driving Innovation Through Sustainability Sustainability is a catalyst for innovation. Companies are developing new products, services, and business models that address environmental and social challenges. For instance, startups like NatureMetrics are utilizing advanced technologies, such as environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring, to assess biodiversity and ecosystem health. This innovation not only aids in conservation efforts but also provides economic value by helping businesses mitigate risks associated with ecosystem degradation. thetimes.co.uk Consumer Demand and Market Trends There is a growing consumer preference for sustainable products and services. A report by TravelPerk indicates that businesses adopting sustainable practices experience improved stakeholder perception and financial performance. This shift in consumer behavior is prompting companies to align their offerings with environmental and social values, leading to increased market share and customer loyalty. travelperk.com Policy Support and Investment Governments are recognizing the importance of sustainable business practices and are implementing policies to support them. The European Commission, for example, is drafting proposals to enhance sustainable investment by increasing guarantees and reducing administrative burdens for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These initiatives aim to mobilize additional investments and simplify sustainability reporting, fostering a more sustainable business environment. reuters.com Conclusion The integration of sustainability into business strategies is not merely a trend but a fundamental shift toward long-term value creation. Companies embracing sustainable practices are experiencing growth, profitability, and innovation, positioning themselves as leaders in the evolving global market. As consumer demand, policy support, and investment in sustainability continue to rise, businesses that prioritize ESG considerations are well-positioned for enduring success. Sources: thetimes.co.uk How a start-up is using high-tech methods to monitor biodiversity Today reuters.com European Commission plans InvestEU guarantee boost, draft document shows Today voguebusiness.com Innovation and sustainability intersect at Fashion Futures Dubai ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Home Our Mission Recycling Publications & Awards Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy Forum Does Turning Off Lights Help You Save Energy? The cost-effectiveness of turning off lights depends on the type of bulb and the cost of electricity in your area. Different light bulbs have varying energy efficiency levels and lifespans, which impact how much energy—and money—you can save by turning them off when not in use. How Different Bulbs Affect Energy Costs The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) provides the following breakdown of lighting costs based on an average electricity rate of $0.11 per kilowatt-hour (kWh): 1) Incandescent Bulbs (Phased Out in the U.S.) Incandescent bulbs are highly inefficient, converting 90% of their energy into heat rather than light. A 60W incandescent bulb uses 0.06 kWh per hour and consumes 60 kWh over 1,000 hours of use . Operating cost for 1,000 hours: $6.60 Since 2023, federal efficiency regulations have effectively phased out incandescent bulbs due to their high energy consumption. 2) Halogen Bulbs (Also Phased Out in the U.S.) Halogen bulbs are a more efficient version of incandescent bulbs, using about 25% less energy . A 43W halogen bulb consumes 43 kWh over 1,000 hours . Operating cost for 1,000 hours: $4.73 As of 2023, halogen bulbs have also been phased out due to new energy efficiency standards. 3) CFL Bulbs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps) CFLs use about 75% less energy than incandescents but contain small amounts of mercury , requiring careful disposal. The 15-minute rule applies: If leaving a room for less than 15 minutes: Keep the CFL on to preserve its lifespan. If leaving for more than 15 minutes: Turn it off to save energy. A 15W CFL consumes 15 kWh over 1,000 hours . Operating cost for 1,000 hours: $1.65 CFLs are declining in popularity as LED prices continue to drop and offer better efficiency without mercury concerns. 4) LED Bulbs (The Most Efficient & Cost-Effective Choice) LEDs are 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. Unlike CFLs, frequent switching does not shorten their lifespan. LEDs provide instant full brightness and work well with smart sensors, dimmers, and automation . A 12W LED consumes 12 kWh over 1,000 hours . Operating cost for 1,000 hours: $1.32 LEDs are now the standard for energy-efficient lighting, with lifespans of 15,000–50,000 hours compared to just 1,000 hours for incandescent bulbs. How Electricity Costs Impact Savings While these calculations are based on $0.11 per kWh , electricity rates vary by region. For example: In California , the average electricity rate is over $0.25 per kWh , making LED savings even more significant. Many utility companies offer time-of-use (TOU) pricing , where electricity costs more during peak hours. If your electricity provider uses TOU pricing, shifting energy use to off-peak hours can further reduce costs. Energy-Saving Tips Use LED bulbs whenever possible. They last longer and save the most energy. Turn off incandescent and halogen lights whenever they’re not in use, as they are the least efficient. For CFLs, follow the 15-minute rule to avoid reducing their lifespan. Consider smart lighting solutions , such as motion sensors and timers, to optimize energy use automatically. By understanding the cost and efficiency of different bulbs, you can make smarter choices that save both energy and money ! 💡💰 Sources: U.S. Department of Energy – Lighting Choices U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency Standards ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Home Our Mission Recycling Publications & Awards Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy Forum Surging Energy Costs Make Community Solar a Smart Option — Even If You Don’t Own a Home As electricity prices rise across the United States, many households are feeling the strain of unpredictable monthly bills. Inflation, aging infrastructure, extreme weather, and global energy disruptions all contribute to higher costs. In this environment, clean energy, especially community solar, is becoming an appealing option for people seeking more stable and predictable expenses. Once a solar facility is built, it generates electricity from sunlight without needing fuel, making solar far less vulnerable to the price swings that affect fossil‑fuel‑based power. Solar for Everyone — Not Just Homeowners One of the major advantages of community solar is that participation does not require installing panels on your own roof. Renters, condominium residents, and people living in multi‑unit buildings can often participate. How Community Solar Typically Works You subscribe to a portion of a local solar farm. The solar facility sends electricity to the local power grid. Your utility applies bill credits based on your share of the solar energy produced. You pay the solar provider for that energy — usually at a discounted rate designed to provide savings. If your subscription produces more energy than you use, unused credits roll over to future bills (rules vary by state). Depending on the program and state regulations, subscribers may see electricity cost savings, often estimated at 5–20% , though actual savings vary by project and contract terms. Importantly, participants do not need to install or maintain equipment . According to the U.S. Department of Energy, community solar programs can provide: Potential protection from fossil‑fuel price volatility More predictable electricity costs Local electricity generation that strengthens regional energy systems Reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared with fossil‑fuel power While solar does not eliminate all energy‑market risks, it contributes to a more diversified and resilient energy system. How to Find a Community Solar Program Several national tools can help consumers locate community solar opportunities: EnergySage Community Solar Marketplace: https://www.energysage.com/community-solar/ U.S. Department of Energy – Community Solar Finder https://www.energy.gov/communitysolar/community-solar Solar United Neighbors (SUN): https://www.solarunitedneighbors.org/ When comparing programs, review: Estimated savings Contract length Cancellation policies Credit requirements Project location and availability How to Subscribe The process typically involves a few steps: Enter your ZIP code into a community solar search tool. Review available projects and compare estimated savings and contract terms. Choose a provider and complete an enrollment form. Once the project becomes active, credits begin appearing on your electricity bill. Requirements vary by provider. Some programs may include credit checks, waiting lists, or contract commitments, so reviewing the terms carefully is important. Sources U.S. Department of Energy – Community Solar Basics : https://www.energy.gov/communitysolar/community-solar-basics U.S. Department of Energy – Community Solar Finder https://www.energy.gov/communitysolar/community-solar EnergySage Community Solar Marketplace: https://www.energysage.com/community-solar/ NREL – Community Solar Program Design Considerations https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy24osti/89948.pdf DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office : https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-technologies-office #CommunitySolar #CleanEnergy #SolarSavings #RenewableEnergy #EnergyIndependence #EnergySecurity #SolarForRenters #SustainableLiving #ClimateSolutions #SolarPower #ElectricityCosts #EnergyResilience #ctdp #connectingthedotsproject #money #saving #Fossilfuel #oil ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Home Our Mission Recycling Publications & Awards Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy Forum Report Finds "Toxic" Chemicals Present in 80% of Receipts from Major Store Chains Most receipts are printed on thermal paper, which contains chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA) or Bisphenol S (BPS). These chemicals can be harmful to the environment if released during the recycling process. Additionally, many receipts are coated with a layer of plastic or contain other non-recyclable elements, making them unsuitable for traditional recycling methods. If receipts are mixed with other recyclable materials like paper or cardboard, they can contaminate the recycling stream, making it difficult to recycle the entire batch. Therefore, You should not put receipts in the recycle bin mainly due to their composition and potential contamination. On the other hand, there are recyclable and compostable receipts, but they are far less common and popular as the thermal paper receipts that most stores use because of the high costs. The EPN's estimate of 80% thermal paper usage in receipts in the USA is based on a survey of businesses in the retail, food service, and hospitality industries. The survey found that 83% of businesses in these industries used thermal paper receipts in 2018. As a result, it is best to dispose of receipts properly in regular waste bins instead of the recycle bin. However, if you want to be more environmentally conscious, consider opting for digital receipts whenever possible, as they help reduce paper waste and the associated environmental impact. Sources: https://recyclecoach.com/.../the-problem-with-recycling.../ https://www.cbsnews.com/.../bpa-receipts-major-store.../ ←Previous Next→

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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→