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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Farm Oil and Agricultural Chemicals Disposal: Farm Oil Disposal: Used farm oils (like motor oils, lubricants, and oils used in farm equipment) should never be disposed of in the trash, down the drain, or on the ground, as this can cause contamination of water sources. Recycle or dispose of used oil at authorized drop-off locations, such as auto repair shops, recycling centers , or specialized collection services . Many localities offer collection points specifically for farm oils. Agricultural Chemicals Disposal (Pesticides, Herbicides, Fertilizers, etc.): Follow the manufacturer's label for disposal instructions and never pour agricultural chemicals down the drain, on the ground, or into storm drains. Unused agricultural chemicals or empty containers must be disposed of at specialized hazardous waste facilities or returned to retailers if applicable. For large quantities, consider contacting local agricultural waste disposal services or cooperative extension offices to safely dispose of the chemicals. Important Notes: Farm oils and agricultural chemicals are not accepted at household hazardous waste (HHW) sites due to their potential environmental hazards and the specialized handling required. Consult local regulations or contact hazardous waste management services for proper disposal channels, as many areas may have specific guidelines for dealing with these items. By emphasizing that farm oils and agricultural chemicals should be handled separately from household hazardous waste, you help ensure these materials are disposed of safely, avoiding contamination and potential legal issues.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards FIRST, IDENTIFY YOUR LIGHT BULB If you are not sure the types of bulbs you have, you need to identify the type first. Here is a comprehensible guide to identify types of lamps by Lamp Plus. Click HERE . If you prefer a video by Illustra Lighting explaining how to identify. Click HERE . Now you know the type of a bulb you are recycling or disposing, check out the following for the proper methods. 1, Compact Fluorescent Lights CFLs are popular for their efficiencies. CFLs use up to 75% less electricity CFLs last up to 10 times longer Life expectancy approx. 10 years CFLs produce 75% less heat, reducing home cooling demands, resulting in higher energy savings. There are 7 states which ban the disposal of CFLs in landfills. Mercury is a precious metal in a limited supply and a necessary component, in CFLs and other electronic products. However, mercury is not harmful when it is intact in CFL but is toxic when it spilled or vaporized. Therefore, CFLs cannot be put into a regular trash bin because it can contaminate landfills and potentially migrate out of landfills to rivers, oceans, and lands. For those reasons, CFLs should be handled responsively and recycled. However, CFLs has been gradually disappearing from stores and been replaced by LED bulbs. Disposal and Recycling CFLs contain mercury, which is hazardous when released into the environment. Unbroken CFLs are safe, but broken bulbs can release toxic mercury vapor. CFLs should never be disposed of in regular trash bins because mercury can contaminate landfills, water sources, and soil. Seven U.S. states (California, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Washington) prohibit landfill disposal of CFLs and require proper recycling. CFLs are being phased out in favor of LED bulbs, which are more energy-efficient and mercury-free. The recycling locations of Household Hazardous collection sites could be found with the link HERE . Homedepot , Lowe's , and IKEA also offer. recycling to their customers. Another recycling option would be mail back programs. The following companies offer the services with a charge. Republic Services TerraCycle EcoLights LampRecycling.com WM Lamp Tracker Other local locations in Illinois, click here published by EPA. 3, Fluorescent Light Tubes Fluorescent tubes are commonly used in commercial, industrial, and residential settings due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan . Mercury content : Like CFLs, fluorescent tubes contain small amounts of mercury , which makes proper disposal crucial to prevent environmental contamination. Disposal and Recycling Guidelines (Nationwide) Fluorescent tubes should never be placed in regular trash bins due to their mercury content, which can contaminate landfills and the environment. Federal regulations under the EPA classify fluorescent lamps as hazardous waste , but some states allow households to dispose of them in municipal landfills. Several states (including California, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Washington) prohibit landfill disposal of fluorescent tubes and require proper recycling. Regardless of state laws, the EPA strongly recommends recycling fluorescent tubes through designated hazardous waste or recycling programs. Where to Recycle Fluorescent Tubes Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection sites . Retailer drop-off programs – Some Home Depot, Lowe’s, and IKEA locations accept fluorescent tubes (check with your local store). Mail-back recycling programs (fees apply): Republic Services TerraCycle EcoLights LampRecycling.com WM Lamp Tracker Check with local waste management agencies for state-specific disposal regulations and recycling options. 4, LED and HID (High-Intensity Discharge) Lamps LED, HID, and UV lamps may contain hazardous materials like mercury or other heavy metals , which can pose risks to human health and the environment if improperly disposed of or handled. Many households dispose of these bulbs in regular trash , but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) strongly recommends recycling or proper disposal to prevent harmful contamination. Disposal and Recycling Guidelines LED, HID, and UV lamps should not be thrown away in regular trash . Instead, they should be recycled through hazardous waste or specialty recycling programs . EPA guidelines emphasize the importance of proper disposal and recommend that these lamps be taken to Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection sites for safe recycling. Where to Recycle LED and HID Lamps Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection sites – Find local drop-off locations [HERE] . Mail-back recycling programs (fees may apply): Republic Services TerraCycle EcoLights LampRecycling.com WM Lamp Tracker Clean-Up Guidance for Broken Bulbs For detailed clean-up instructions if a bulb breaks, visit: 🔗 EPA Clean-Up Guidance Warning: Cleaning of Broken CFLs, LEDs, HIDs, and Spilled Mercury Preparation for Cleanup: Leave the area : Ensure that people and pets leave the room where the bulb broke. Do NOT vacuum : Vacuuming can spread mercury vapor and contaminate the area further. Wear protective gear : Wear gloves and a mask . Never touch mercury with bare hands. Ventilate the room : Air out the room for 5-10 minutes by opening windows and doors. Turn off HVAC systems : Shut off central air or fans to avoid circulating mercury particles. Prepare a cleaning kit : Gather necessary materials such as: Stiff paper or cardboard Sticky tape (e.g., duct tape) Damp paper towels or disposable wet wipes (for hard surfaces) A glass jar with a metal lid or a seal-able plastic bag for storing debris. During Cleanup: Be thorough : Carefully collect broken glass and visible powder from the bulb. Seal all materials : Place the cleanup materials in a sealed container to prevent the mercury from escaping. After Cleanup: Temporary storage : Place the sealed container with bulb debris and cleaning materials in a safe and protected spot outside the home until it can be properly disposed of. A plastic bag alone will not prevent mercury vapor from escaping. Air out the room : Continue airing out the room for several hours and keep the HVAC system shut off . More Information For detailed clean-up instructions, visit:🔗 EPA Clean-Up Guidance Incandescent Light Bulbs Incandescent light bulbs are generally considered safe to dispose of in household trash because the components are not typically recyclable due to their small and complex structure. If the bulb is broken , carefully wrap the pieces securely in thick paper or place them in a sealed container to prevent injury from broken glass. Article source: Homedepot.com , epa.gov , earth911.com , querysprout.com , christmaslightsource.com , terracycle.com , ecolights.com , lampcycling.com , lampplus.com Video: copyright owned by Illustra Lighting

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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards The Impact of Monoculture Farming on Bees Monoculture Farming with Corns Bees play a crucial role in pollination, supporting biodiversity and food production worldwide. However, monoculture farming—the practice of growing a single crop over large areas—has significantly contributed to the decline of bee populations. This industrialized agricultural method deprives bees of nutritional diversity, increases exposure to pesticides, and disrupts their natural habitats. Nutritional Deficiency in Bees Monoculture farming limits the variety of flowers available to bees, restricting their diet to a single pollen and nectar source. Unlike diverse natural ecosystems, where bees can forage from multiple plant species, monocultures offer only one type of flower for a limited season. This lack of dietary diversity weakens bee immune systems, making them more susceptible to diseases and environmental stressors. A study published in Global Change Biology found that bees with access to diverse pollen sources had stronger immune responses than those limited to a single crop (Di Pasquale et al., 2016). The absence of varied nutrition in monoculture landscapes makes it harder for bees to thrive, ultimately reducing their population and effectiveness as pollinators. Increased Pesticide Exposure Monoculture farming relies heavily on chemical pesticides and herbicides to protect crops from pests and weeds. However, these chemicals can have devastating effects on bees. Neonicotinoids, a widely used class of insecticides, have been linked to impaired navigation, reduced foraging ability, and colony collapse disorder (CCD) in honeybees. A report from the Center for Pollinators in Energy highlights how pesticide exposure disrupts the central nervous system of bees, leading to disorientation and death (Hopwood et al., 2016). Since monocultures require repeated pesticide applications, bees in these environments are exposed to harmful chemicals at higher concentrations than in diverse ecosystems. Habitat Loss and Fragmentation Expansive monoculture farms replace natural habitats, eliminating wildflowers, shrubs, and nesting sites essential for native bee species. Unlike honeybees, which can be managed in hives, wild bees rely on undisturbed landscapes for survival. According to the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation , habitat destruction caused by monoculture farming has led to a significant decline in wild bee populations, including species like the rusty-patched bumblebee ( Bombus affinis ), which is now endangered (Xerces Society, 2021). Without suitable habitats, bees struggle to reproduce and maintain stable populations. Solutions for Sustainable Farming While monoculture farming poses significant risks to bees, sustainable agricultural practices can help mitigate these impacts. Farmers can adopt the following strategies to support pollinators: Planting Cover Crops & Wildflower Strips: Providing diverse floral resources throughout the year improves bee nutrition. Reducing Pesticide Use: Implementing integrated pest management (IPM) reduces reliance on harmful chemicals. Restoring Natural Habitats: Maintaining hedgerows, meadows, and buffer zones enhances nesting and foraging areas for bees. Practicing Crop Rotation & Polyculture: Growing multiple crops in rotation prevents soil depletion and supports biodiversity. Conclusion Monoculture farming has played a significant role in the decline of bee populations by limiting nutritional resources, increasing pesticide exposure, and destroying habitats. As pollinators are essential for food production and ecosystem stability, adopting bee-friendly farming practices is crucial. By promoting biodiversity and reducing chemical use, we can help safeguard the future of bees and ensure sustainable agricultural systems.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards The Growing Threat: How Hackers Can Exploit Solar Panels and the Power Grid The rapid integration of solar panels and smart grid technologies into our energy infrastructure has introduced significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Recent analyses highlight the susceptibility of these systems to cyberattacks, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Solar Panel Vulnerabilities A recent report by Forbes emphasizes that many solar panel installations are at risk of cyber intrusion due to inadequate security protocols. Attackers can exploit these weaknesses to manipulate energy production data, disrupt operations, or even cause physical damage to the infrastructure. The article underscores the importance of updating passwords and implementing robust security measures to safeguard these systems. Grid Security Concerns The broader power grid is also facing escalating cyber threats. In 2024, U.S. utilities experienced a 70% surge in cyberattacks compared to the previous year, according to a report by Check Point Research. This increase is attributed to the rapid digitalization of the power grid and the continued use of outdated software, making utilities more susceptible to cyber threats. While no significant disruptions have occurred thus far, experts caution that a coordinated attack could have catastrophic effects on essential services and financial stability. Case Study: Australia's Solar Boom Australia's rapid adoption of solar energy has inadvertently introduced new cybersecurity risks. Brian Craighead, CEO of Energy Renaissance, warns that the software in approximately 250,000 home battery systems, many sourced from foreign manufacturers, poses a "hidden threat." These vulnerabilities could be exploited by cyber attackers to overcharge batteries, potentially leading to explosions and compromising the integrity of the energy grid. Craighead advocates for stringent cybersecurity measures and the development of secure, locally-produced solutions to mitigate these risks. Recommendations for Enhancing Security To address these vulnerabilities, stakeholders in the energy sector should consider the following measures: Regular Software Updates: Ensure that all devices, including solar panels and battery systems, receive timely firmware and software updates to patch known vulnerabilities. Strong Authentication Protocols: Implement robust password policies and multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access. Network Segmentation: Isolate critical systems from public networks to limit exposure to potential threats. Continuous Monitoring: Deploy intrusion detection systems and conduct regular security assessments to identify and address emerging threats. As our reliance on renewable energy sources and smart technologies grows, so does the imperative to protect these systems from cyber threats. Proactive measures and a collaborative approach among industry stakeholders are essential to securing our energy infrastructure against evolving cyber challenges. Sources: reuters.com Cyberattacks on US utilities surged 70% this year, says Check Point theaustralian.com.au 'Clear and present danger': the dark side of Australia's solar boom theaustralian.com.au Exploding solar? Battery attack warnings heat up

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Oil-Based Paint and Paint Thinner Oil-based paints and paint thinners are widely used for their durability and smooth finishes. However, they contain chemicals that are hazardous to the environment and human health. Proper disposal is crucial to ensure safety and prevent contamination. Here’s how you should dispose of oil-based paint and paint thinner: 1. Oil-Based Paint: a. Never Dispose of in the Trash or Down the Drain: Hazardous Waste : Oil-based paint is considered hazardous waste and should never be thrown in the regular trash, poured down the drain, or into stormwater drains. These chemicals can contaminate water sources, soil, and negatively affect wildlife. b. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facilities: Drop-off Locations : The best way to dispose of oil-based paint is to take it to a household hazardous waste collection facility . Many local municipalities organize special collection events or offer permanent drop-off locations for hazardous waste, including oil-based paint. Check Local Regulations : Contact your local waste management or environmental agency to find a facility near you that accepts oil-based paint and paint-related products. c. Reduce Waste by Using Leftover Paint: Use Leftovers : If you have leftover oil-based paint, try using it for touch-ups, a new project, or donating it to community organizations like schools or churches that may find it useful. Store Properly : Seal the can tightly and store it in a cool, dry place if you need to keep it for future use. This prevents the paint from drying out and reduces waste. 2. Paint Thinner: a. Reuse or Properly Dispose: Reuse Paint Thinner : If your paint thinner is relatively clean, it can be reused. Simply let it settle, pour off the clean portion into another container, and keep the residue for proper disposal. Dispose at HHW Facility : Like oil-based paint, paint thinner is a flammable and toxic substance . It must be disposed of at a household hazardous waste facility . Never pour it down the drain or dispose of it in regular trash. b. Do Not Dispose of in Landfills or Drains: Chemical Contamination : Pouring paint thinner into landfills or storm drains can cause significant environmental harm by contaminating water supplies and harming wildlife. Always take the proper steps to dispose of it. c. Cleaning Brushes and Containers: Proper Cleaning : If you need to clean brushes or containers used with oil-based paint, always use a container that can be sealed and bring it to a hazardous waste facility once you’ve collected enough residue. Do not dump leftover paint thinner in sinks or toilets. 3. Safe Alternatives: Non-Toxic Paint Options : Consider using water-based paints for future projects. These paints are easier to clean with water and do not require the disposal of harmful chemicals. Non-Toxic Paint Thinner Alternatives : Some eco-friendly products can help clean brushes or thin paint without using toxic solvents. Look for products labeled as low-VOC or non-toxic . 4. Key Takeaways: Never dispose of oil-based paint or paint thinner in regular trash, drains, or stormwater systems. Take these substances to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility for safe disposal. Reuse leftover paint or donate it if possible to minimize waste. Store paint and thinner properly to prevent accidents or unnecessary disposal. Consider using non-toxic, water-based paints to reduce reliance on hazardous chemicals in future projects. By following these guidelines, you will help protect the environment and reduce the risks associated with the disposal of oil-based paint and paint thinner. Proper disposal ensures that these hazardous substances do not harm the environment or wildlife.

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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards The recyclability and proper disposal of baby bottles and sippy cups depend on their material composition. Here’s a general guide: Recycling Baby Bottles & Sippy Cups Plastic Bottles & Cups (Check Recycling Code) Many baby bottles and sippy cups are made from polypropylene (PP, #5 ) or polycarbonate (PC, #7 ) . Recycling options vary by location , as not all curbside programs accept these plastics. Steps: Check the recycling symbol on the product. Contact your local recycling center to confirm acceptance. Remove and discard any non-recyclable parts like rubber valves or silicone spouts. Glass Bottles Generally 100% recyclable through glass recycling programs. Ensure bottles are clean and free of silicone or plastic components before recycling. Silicone Components (Nipples, Spouts, Straws) Most municipal recycling programs do not accept silicone. Some companies offer take-back programs for silicone recycling. Mixed-Material Cups (With Rubber, Metal, or Insulation) Typically not curbside recyclable due to material combinations. Look for manufacturer take-back programs or specialty recycling centers . Disposal & Donation Options Upcycle or Repurpose : Use old bottles as storage containers or for arts and crafts. Donate : If the bottles and cups are in good condition , consider donating them to shelters or community organizations. Manufacturer Recycling Programs : Some brands (e.g., Tommee Tippee, Medela) have recycling initiatives for old baby bottles.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards A huge methane leak detected from space A significant methane leak in the Gloucestershire region, UK , a highly potent greenhouse gas, has been detected from space for the first time in March 2023. This leak, observed over a three-month period, originated from a gas main operated by Wales and West Utilities and had the potential to power 7,500 homes for a year. This satellite detection capability demonstrates the importance of rapidly identifying methane leaks to prevent their environmental impact. Methane has 28 TIMES the global warming potential of carbon dioxide (CO2) and is responsible for approximately 30% of the increase in global temperatures. The leak was initially discovered in March through satellite imagery analysis conducted by the University of Leeds, in collaboration with GHGSat, a company specializing in satellite technology. Wales and West Utilities became aware of the leak when a member of the public reported the smell of gas. The exact cause of the leak remains unclear, but methane leaks in gas pipelines are not uncommon, particularly in aging infrastructure. The satellite detection method has highlighted the potential for rapid methane leak identification. Currently, methane leaks are typically detected through challenging on-the-ground surveys, a difficult task given the extensive network of pipelines and sites. Jean-Francois Gauthier, senior VP for strategy at GHGSat, emphasized the unique value of satellites in this context, as they can provide frequent, cost-effective, and non-invasive monitoring of methane emissions. GHGSat operates nine high-resolution satellites in their constellation, orbiting at 500km overhead, which are capable of detecting gases with a 25m resolution. Prof Grant Allen, lecturer in atmospheric science at the University of Manchester, told the BBC: "There is still some work to do to fully validate the precise magnitude of such emissions estimated by satellites like GHGSat, but the capability is already proving super useful for identifying where big (preventable) sources may be." Sources: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-66811312 https://www.ghgsat.com/.../methane-leak-detection.../ https://www.offshore-technology.com/.../uk-methane.../ ...

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards 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.../

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