Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back NEVER Kill The Tiny Heroes Of Pest Control House centipedes(Scutigera) may startle you with their yellowish-gray long body and numerous legs, but they're far from the villains you might think. These anthropods are nature's tiny superheroes for several reasons. Firstly, they're not insects but close relatives of spiders and scorpions. Their up to 15 pairs of long legs are designed for efficient movement. While they can bite when threatened, it's usually more uncomfortable than harmful to humans. Their intricate design, including long legs, segmented bodies, exoskeletons, and compound eyes, serves a purpose. House centipedes move with a mesmerizing ripple effect, allowing them to be agile hunters, excellent at self-defense, and skilled at evading predators. Also, you might think these arthropods grow fast. WRONG! They have a considerably slower development process compared to spiders and other insects, often requiring over 3 years to reach sexual maturity. Impressively, these creatures also boast a longer lifespan, with some individuals living as long as 7 years!!! These superheroes excel at pest control, dining on pests like cockroaches. By doing so, they help maintain nature's balance, keeping troublesome critters at bay. So, next time you see a house centipede, remember it's a beneficial protector. Rather than squishing it, consider leaving it alone or gently relocating it if necessary. If you are scared of them, you can prevent their entry, and seal up cracks and crevices around your home. House centipedes are fascinating creatures that work tirelessly to keep your living space pest-free. They deserve lots of love and respect ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Sashiko - Japanese embroidery The Artful Embroidery Technique for Function, Aesthetics, and Quality Preservation" What is Sashiko? Sashiko ( 刺し子) is a form of an embroidery technique that was developed to prolong the lifespan, improve heat insulation and enhance the durability of fabrics and garments.　 In 1724, the enactment of the "Farmers’ expenditure regulation" (農家倹約分限令) marked a significant change. Commoners were prohibited from wearing cotton fabric and had to turn to indigo-dyed hemp linen as an alternative, even though it provided limited warmth during winter's harsh conditions. In these challenging times, the basic running stitch flourished and developed into the Sashiko technique that we recognize today. Hemp textiles, while relatively strong and water-resistant, were not the most comfortable option for labor-intensive tasks like farming. Additionally, hemp is a cooler material and doesn't provide much warmth. To address these issues, artisans enhanced the fabric's durability by indigo-dyeing it and employing a layering technique, sewing the fabric with intricate stitching. This layering and stitching improved both durability and insulation. Strengthening the fabric with indigo also served the purpose of a shield from snake attacks during farming. Another example would be the firefighters’ jackets. Highly intricate Sashiko stitching was used on cotton fabrics in order to maximize water absorption. Firefighters doused themselves with water while wearing the jacket and rushed to the scene. Many of the firefighters’ jackets are reversible; colorful linings were used for celebratory occasions after firefighting. The geometric patterns of sashiko hold various prayers, such as "Asano-ha" (hemp leaves) representing the healthy growth of children from the straight growth of stems, "Seigaiha" depicting the waves of the bountiful sea, and "Shippo" symbolizing richness and harmony, all expressing different wishes and blessings. The most renowned regional Sashiko styles 1. Tsugaru Kogin Sashiko (津軽こぎん刺し): From the Tsugaru region (around Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture) This style features geometric patterns stitched with thick, colorful threads on coarse cotton fabric. Young girls learned stitching from a young age, preparing Sashiko kimono for themselves and their future husbands. The most popular stitching technique in the region is done by picking up an odd number of stitches (1-3-5) along the warp threads. 2. Nanbu Hishi Sashiko (南部菱刺し): From the Nanbu region (around Hachinohe and Towada, Aomori Prefecture) The historical background is similar to Tsugaru Kogin Sashiko. However, while Tsugaru and Nanbu are neighboring regions, their approaches didn't necessarily align. They independently developed based on their circumstances and purposes. Stitches are picked up along even-numbered warp threads (2-4-6) to create a diamond pattern. 3. Shonai Sashiko (庄内刺し子 ): From the Shonai region (around Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture) This style is known for its intricate and delicate patterns. It often features floral motifs and requires meticulous stitching. A distinctive feature is that the stitching pattern isn't calculated. The diagonal reinforcement fabric, resembling a shoulder strap, adds strength for sled pulling. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Kintsugi Kintsugi: repairing broken ceramic with gold Look at these gorgeous potteries!! Can you believe these are repaired bowls once broken into pieces? Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery, involves using lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. It is aptly translated as "golden joinery" or "to join with gold." The philosophy behind kintsugi is to treat breakage and repair as part of the history of an object, rather than something to disguise or dispose of. The idea is that by embracing flaws and imperfections and giving them a new life, you can create an even stronger, more beautiful piece of art. Traditionally, kintsugi uses urushi lacquer and rice flour to bind the ceramics together. However, nowadays, it become more popular to utilize more readily available materials such as clear epoxy resin or other ceramic adhesives to reduce costs and time and increase durability. In fact, I actually found a Kintsugi repair set with epoxy on Amazon. However, I cannot guarantee if that was authentic Kintsugi while it appears to offer a similar finish or appearance. Urushi is an indigenous lacquer plant that grows in Japan and is highly toxic while it is not cured. I also thought you ought to know their maintenance as they require gentle handling. But no need to worry, the cautionary is not more than a fine set of porcelains or glasses would require. Maintenance: - For the traditional kintsugi with lacquer, it is recommended to let it be cured for several months after the repair is complete before gradually resuming use. Epoxy has a much faster healing time. - Do not microwave kintsugi-treated potteries or glasses - Avoid Dishwashers and Drying Machines - Avoid Stacking Dishes - Avoid long storage in cold. When storing food in kintsugi pottery in the refrigerator, differences in drying rates between the joined sections may occur. This discrepancy could lead to cracks. While short-term storage is generally acceptable, avoid extended periods in the refrigerator. - To prevent the metal powder on the repaired areas from detaching, wash the pottery gently. While using mild detergent is acceptable, avoid using abrasive cleaners, scrub brushes, or any harsh materials that could damage the pottery. After washing, pat dry with a soft cloth and let it air dry thoroughly. - Avoid Direct Sunlight. Lacquer is sensitive to UV rays and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. - Avoid prolonged water immersion as it may cause delamination between the original pottery and repaired sections. When used for meals, rinse and wipe promptly with kitchen paper before it dries. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Wounded US Army veterans are finding healing by restoring threatened coral reefs off Florida's coast. Teaming up with the Mote Marine Laboratory and Combat Wounded Veteran Challenge (CWVC) non-profit, these veterans work annually to save coral endangered by disease and rising sea temperatures while aiding their own physical and emotional recovery. The collaboration allows researchers to study the veterans in challenging environments, advancing treatments for conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder. Through activities like coral planting, the veterans contribute to marine ecosystem preservation and discover purpose in their journey, showcasing how environmental restoration can have positive effects on both nature and human well-being. The initiative aims to create resilient colonies capable of reproducing naturally, providing a sustainable solution for coral reef conservation. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Power of refusing The power of saying "NO" made this family a multi-millionaire!! $255K to $37M in 45 years!! The Zammit family's home in Australia is located in The Ponds, a suburb near Quakers Hill, about 40km northwest of Sydney, Australia. The family moved into the home on a 1.99 hectare block in 1978. Allegedly, the estimated value of the property then was AUD $400,000 (USD $255,000). At the time, the area was mostly farmland (see the video below). However, over the years, the area has been developed into a suburb with thousands of new homes. The Zammit family has refused to sell the home despite numerous offers from developers. The Zammit family's home is now the only one left standing in the middle of the development. The home has been currently valued at $50 million AUD (USD $37.5 million). The family has said that they are not interested in selling the home because it is full of memories for them. They also believe that it is important to preserve some of the old character of the area. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Circular Economy: Recycling & Upcycling Prom Dresses & Suits Circular Economy: Recycling & Upcycling Prom Dresses and Suits Let's recycle prom dress! All the fellow high school students in Chicago, do you need a prom dress or suit but can't afford one? Look no further. These non-profit organizations offer free prom attires. They have designers and great collections. Please share the info because your friend might be able to use one. And to those who live in different states, there are many similar organizations around the country. If you are interested in a similar opportunity, you should google "Prom dress giveaway near me." Good luck! 1) The Gift of Glamour: https://www.facebook.com/thegifto.../https://www.713ceg.org/ 2) 713 Ceg & Prom Girls Rock: www.713ceg.org 713 Community Empowerment Group - Home Home 3) Humble Hearts: humbleheartsfoundation.org Home - Humble Hearts Helping People In Need Connecting resources to those in need by providing living essentials to end impoverishment through community outreach. Donate Our charity works to collect resources such as In-kind goods, hygiene products, food, & other miscellaneous items for the homeless, people in need, families leaving shelter life, & those who suffer from mental health issues.… #ctdp #connectingthedotsproject #recycling #recycle #circularfashion #upcycling #prom #prom2024 #dresses #promdresses #chicago #illinois #giveaway #giveaways #promdressgiveaway ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Mercury Contamination in Marine Life: High-Risk Fish and Health Implications Mercury Contamination in Marine Life: High-Risk Fish and Health Implications Mercury contamination in marine ecosystems poses significant health risks to both wildlife and humans. Mercury, particularly in its methylmercury form, accumulates in aquatic organisms and biomagnifies up the food chain, leading to higher concentrations in top predators. Mercury Levels in Fish A study analyzing various fish species found that tuna exhibited the highest mercury content among marine fish, with concentrations around 0.270 mg/kg. In contrast, species like hake, pollock, and salmon had significantly lower levels, with salmon showing concentrations as low as 0.017 mg/kg. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Further research indicates that tuna is a dominant source of mercury intake for the U.S. population, accounting for approximately 39% of total mercury consumption from estuarine and marine species. This includes fresh and frozen tuna, as well as canned varieties. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Highly Contaminated Marine Species Large, long-lived predatory fish tend to accumulate higher mercury levels due to their position in the food chain. Species such as tuna and swordfish have been identified with elevated mercury concentrations. nature.com Health Implications and Recommendations The accumulation of mercury in these marine species poses health risks to humans who consume them. Elevated mercury exposure can lead to neurological and cardiovascular problems. Therefore, it is advisable for consumers, especially vulnerable groups like pregnant women and young children, to limit their intake of high-mercury fish and opt for species known to have lower mercury levels. In summary, while seafood is a valuable part of a balanced diet, awareness of mercury levels in different marine species is crucial. Choosing fish with lower mercury concentrations can help mitigate potential health risks associated with mercury exposure. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Apps for Not Wasting Food Imperfect Foods This merchant sells imperfect fruits or vegetables which would be otherwise wasted or tossed because of imperfection. It comes in a surprise bag/ box and you only find the content only when you open the package. Olio Sharing surplus or left over is another practical eco-friendly approach. With the Olio app, available on iOS and Android , you can share the food waste in your area. Just upload a pic of food which you want to share. Other app users will get a notification. You can also browse items your neighbors are willing to share, like food, cleaning products or other miscellaneous items. You have to coordinate the pick up arrangement between the offerer and recipient. Too Good To Go "Selling surplus food just got easy" Too Good to Go says. But actually buying surplus food just got easy also. With this app, you can buy leftover food from supermarkets, restaurants and cafes at a fraction of the regular cost. Not only that, we can save tons of food from going to waste, save the operational waste for establishments, and get discounted meals. They are available on iOS and Android . Food Rescue Us This app is transport food to where it is needed through volunteers. Their local volunteers pick-up excess healthy food from local food donors and deliver it directly to local social service agencies that feed the food insecure. FlashFood FlashFood’s founder spoke with hundreds of grocery store employees and executives to learn about their wasteful practices. Most unsold food items that were approaching their best-before dates by up to two weeks were typically thrown away. FlashFood allows users to browse those food items and buy them at a discount, keeping them out of landfills. YourLocal Connect with local restaurants and stores to purchase their surplus foods for up to 70% off. Their local volunteers pick-up excess healthy food from local food donors and deliver it directly to local social service agencies that feed the food insecure. While this app is currently only available in New York City and Denmark, it’s sure to spread throughout the United States soon. ←Previous Next→

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 Association of Food Deserts and Food Swamps With Obesity-Related Cancer Mortality in the US A recent US study reveals that food inequities contribute to a higher risk of dying from obesity-related cancers. Social factors, influenced by geography and public policies, can shape health outcomes. Wealthy neighborhoods typically have more supermarkets and access to healthy diets than underserved communities, limiting access to affordable fresh food, especially in areas with inadequate public transit. According to the study published on the JAMA network, thirteen types of cancer are linked to obesity, accounting for 40% of US cancer cases. "In this ecologic cross-sectional study that included 3038 counties or county-equivalents, those with the highest food swamp score had a 77% increased odds of high obesity-related cancer mortality." This challenges the belief that diet alone may be able to reduce cancer risk. It highlights the importance of addressing food inequities and creating walkable neighborhoods and community gardens. Such systemic solutions require recognizing historical and structural factors like community disinvestment and systemic racism. We've created a list of food banks, food assistance programs, and community gardens. Please share. Thank you! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tTuwI8vAj4cFgyMUcYHuiT5tm1E0s-V1/view?usp=sharing ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Honoring Mr. Alfie Date A man who knitted sweaters for penguins after oil spill Australia's oldest man at that point in time, who passed away at the age of 110 in 2016, had always enjoyed knitting since 1932. A few hours after being placed in a retirement home, he learned about Knits for Nature, a program that collects jumpers (sweaters)for little penguins (only about 33cm tall) that are suffering from oil spills in Phillip Island Nature Park in Australia. Mr. Alfie Date did not waste any time and chose to start knitting jumpers . These garments serve as a protective barrier, preventing the penguins from ingesting toxic oil while preening feathers until rescue staff can wash them clean. Besides the potential fatality from ingestion, the oil also harms their delicate feathers, leaving their skin exposed to cold temperatures. This distressing situation leaves the penguins feeling cold, burdened, and unable to swim or hunt for food. The jumpers serve as temporary relief and are eventually removed from the penguins once they are completely cleaned. Penguin Foundation Officer Lauren Barker told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in a 2019 interview. "Thankfully, 96 percent of them were successfully released, and penguin rehabilitation jumpers played quite a big part in that." Meanwhile, a dispute has arisen over the practice. In a blog boldly titled "Why Sweaters on Birds are Bad," posted on the website of the renowned California-based International Bird Rescue in October 2011, director Emeritus Jay Holcomb criticized the practice, arguing that the sweaters stress out the birds, hinder their ability to thermoregulate, and cause more damage by pressing the oil against the birds' skin. We have not yet found studies that validate either side of the claims if using a sweater as a temporary protection would be harmful to the bird or not. Sources: https://time.com/3706927/australia-penguin-sweaters/ https://penguinfoundation.org.au/ https://www.samaritanmag.com/animals/knitting-sweaters-oil-slicked-penguins-not-good-birds ←Previous Next→

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