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 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 Pesticides and Mental Health A systematic review explores the potential link between chronic pesticide exposure in farmers and mental health issues In a study conducted by epidemiologist Freya Kamel and her team, it was found that out of the 19,000 individuals examined, those who had utilized both two categories of pesticides and seven specific pesticides had a higher likelihood of receiving a depression diagnosis. Out of the seven specific pesticides associated with depression diagnoses in Kamel's study, only aluminum phosphide, diazinon, and malathion remain registered and actively used, according to a statement from Cathy Milbourn, a spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has revoked the registrations of ethylene dibromide, 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T), dieldrin, and parathion. Currently, aluminum phosphide, diazinon, and malathion are undergoing a review process by the EPA. In particular, individuals who had used organochlorine insecticides were found to have a risk of being diagnosed with depression that was up to 90 percent higher compared to those who had not used these insecticides. The use of some organochlorine insecticide chemicals has been banned in the U.S. but not all of them. Additionally, for fumigants (pesticides that, when applied to soil, form a gas to control pests that live in the soil), the increased risk of depression was as high as 80 percent in comparison to individuals who had not been exposed to them. Despite differences in the time and location of the studies, similar reports have been documented. The researchers observed comparable outcomes when they reevaluated the same cohort documented between 1993 and 1997. Among farmers with the greatest cumulative days of pesticide exposure over their lifetimes, there was a 50 percent elevated likelihood of receiving a depression diagnosis at a later time. In a separate study conducted in France, farmers who used herbicides were almost twice as likely to receive treatment for depression compared to non-users. This risk appeared to be escalated when herbicide applicators had been engaged in such activities for over 19 years, involving a study of 567 farmers. These findings may imply that chronic exposure to low pesticide levels over time might elevate the risk of depression. Additionally, the potential link between pesticide poisoning (significant exposure in a short timeframe) and depression has also been studied. The farmers in Colorado, who experienced pesticide poisoning, had twice the risk of developing depression over the subsequent three years. Furthermore, within the pesticide applicators from North Carolina and Iowa, those who had been affected by pesticide poisoning were 2.5 times more likely to receive a diagnosis of depression at a later point in time. While these studies are based on statistics and don't establish a direct link between pesticides and depression, animal experiments suggest that such a connection is plausible. According to Cheryl Beseler, an environmental health researcher at Colorado State University, pesticides have been shown in rat tests to alter brain cells, neurotransmitters, and the production of protective acids. Kamel emphasized that there's little doubt that pesticides can influence brain functions. Experiments have shown that pesticides damage rats' brain tissue and receptors, and they may also have indirect effects by promoting other health issues linked to depression. For instance, Dr. Beate Ritz, a neurologist and professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, discovered that Californians exposed to pesticides are more prone to developing Parkinson's disease, a condition characterized by a dopamine deficiency that can lead to depression. At last, modern agriculture is a complex field with various challenges. It must provide affordable, safe food, ensure farmer and consumer safety, and maximize productivity and profitability. Balancing these factors is extremely complicated due to the need to reduce herbicides and pesticides, adopt sustainable practices, and meet changing consumer preferences. Biotechnology and regulatory frameworks also influence this complex landscape. Researchers and policymakers are actively seeking innovative solutions to address these challenges and maintain a safe and sustainable food supply. In the meanwhile, it is deeply concerning to consider the exposure of hard-working farmers, who work tirelessly to provide food for our tables, to these chemicals that possess the potential to negatively affect their well-being. We must pursue and advocate farming practices that are both safe and sustainable. Also, as end consumers, it is crucial for us to ensure that we thoroughly wash produce before consumption. ←Previous Next→

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 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 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 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→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Aspartame (artificial sweetener) and Health Recently the World Health Organization’s (WHO) cancer research agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), classified the commonly used artificial sweetener aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic to humans”, although another UN committee reaffirmed that there was a safe daily level of consumption. So let’s delve into the current findings on Aspartame to get to get to the bottom. Aspartame, an artificial sweetener, is regulated by the FDA in the United States. It undergoes safety testing and requires FDA approval before it can be used. The FDA sets an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for aspartame, which represents the maximum amount considered safe for daily consumption over a person's lifetime. The FDA has set the ADI for aspartame at 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, while the JECFA and EFSA recommend a slightly lower ADI of 40 mg/kg/day. For example, the daily max consumption for an individual weighing 132 lbs (=60 kg) would be 2400mg to 3000mg per day. It is approximately 8-12 cans of diet soda per day assuming there are 200 to 300 milligrams of aspartame in each can. Aside from individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that affects the breakdown of phenylalanine, aspartame has not been conclusively linked to specific health problems according to studies. Products containing aspartame are required to carry a warning label for individuals with PKU. In 2023, citing “limited evidence” for carcinogenicity in humans, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a statement that Aspartame, an artificial sweetener, has been categorized by the IARC as "possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2b)”, specifically for hepatocellular carcinoma, which is a type of liver cancer. (IARC is the cancer research agency of the WHO). It is crucial to understand that IARC classifications are determined based on the strength of evidence regarding whether a substance can cause cancer in humans, rather than assessing its likelihood to cause cancer. Now, let’s compare the ruling of IARC with those of other health organizations. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA): The JECFA is an international expert committee jointly operated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). One of its primary roles is to evaluate the safety of food additives, considering various health impacts, including cancer. In assessing the risk associated with a specific harm, such as cancer, the JECFA considers factors such as the frequency, amount, and manner in which people are exposed to a particular food additive. After conducting a dietary exposure assessment, the JECFA has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to establish an association between aspartame consumption and cancer in humans. Consequently, based on current dietary exposure estimates, the JECFA has determined that the consumption of aspartame under the limit does not pose a health concern. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety of food ingredients, including artificial sweeteners like aspartame, in the United States. The FDA has expressed that scientific evidence consistently supports the conclusion that aspartame is safe for the general population, as long as it is produced following good manufacturing practices and used within approved aforementioned limits and conditions. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): The EFSA oversees the regulation of food additives within the European Union. Following a comprehensive risk assessment of aspartame conducted in 2013, the EFSA stated that both aspartame and its breakdown products are safe for human consumption at 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, that is the same level with the ADI level of JECFA, and EFSA. So why does the statement from IARC sound more alarming? The difference is that IARC's classification reflects the strength of scientific evidence regarding the potential carcinogenicity of aspartame. Reportedly, IARC sites have limited evidence for carcinogenicity in humans. Also, the IARC hazard evaluation considers all types of exposures (e.g. dietary, and occupational) but is not limited to dietary consumptions. On the other hand, other organizations’ risk assessments listed above are based on the probability of harm occurring under specific conditions and levels of exposure. More research is needed to better understand the potential carcinogenic hazard of aspartame. Dr Francesco Branca, Director of the Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, WHO states, “The assessments of aspartame have indicated that, while safety is not a major concern at the doses which are commonly used, potential effects have been described that need to be investigated by more and better studies.” So let’s keep in mind that scientific understanding and research in this field are continually evolving, and future studies may contribute additional insights. ←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 Our hero: Ron Finley ←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 The Real Reasons Why You Need House Plants Many people may have heard the common notion that plants produce oxygen and as a result, people began buying plants with the intent of filtering the air. The only issue here is house plants don't filter enough air. In 2019, Bryan E. Cummings and Michael S. Waring published their studies which showed that in order to filter a room with plants at the same level as pre-existing outdoor-to-indoor air exchange in a typical building, each square meter of space needed 10-1000 plants. All in all, plants do remove VOCs1, just not enough in a household to be considered a reliable filter. Though houseplants aren’t the most effective filter, don’t let that be the reason you don’t have plants in your house. Plants still produce a myriad of health benefits some of which are still being explored deeper. A few include… In conclusion, plants may not be as great of a filter as the common notion may suggest, however, they still hold great health benefits that should encourage you to keep plants in your household. A great beginner guide to plants is Jenny Raworth and Val Bradley’s book, Click HERE to access their complete guide! If you want to read more on the importance of air quality and how to maintain it, click HERE 1: Volatile Organic Compounds 2: Serotonin is a hormone in your body that influences your mood, sleep, bone health, and more. 3: Pathogens are viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites that invade the body and can cause health issues. ←Previous Next→