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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal & Recycling of Amps, Speakers, and Bluetooth Speakers Disposing of amps, and speakers responsibly is important due to their electronic components and potentially hazardous materials. Here’s how to manage their disposal and recycling: Disposal: E-Waste Collection Programs: Many communities offer electronic waste (e-waste) collection programs that accept amps and speakers. These programs are the best option for proper disposal because they ensure that hazardous materials (like lead or mercury) are handled safely. Retailer Take-Back Programs: Some electronics retailers and manufacturers provide take-back or trade-in programs for old electronics, including amps and speakers. Check with local stores or online for specific return options. Recycling: E-Waste Recycling Centers: Look for certified e-waste recycling facilities in your area that accept amps, and speakers. These facilities properly handle the hazardous materials in the items and recover valuable resources like metals, plastics, and glass. Municipal Recycling Services: Certain municipal recycling programs may accept large electronic items like large amps and speakers. However, ensure you check their specific guidelines to confirm the items are accepted. Recycling via Mail: Some organizations or manufacturers offer mail-in recycling programs for old electronics, including speakers. You can ship these items to a recycling facility, though this may involve shipping fees. Important Notes: Proper Handling of Hazardous Materials: TVs and monitors, especially older models (CRT), often contain hazardous materials like lead or mercury. It’s important to not dispose of them in regular landfills to avoid environmental contamination. Data Security: For monitors and smart TVs with built-in storage (such as smart features or apps), ensure that any personal data is deleted before recycling to protect your privacy. Alternatives: Donate or Repurpose: If the items are still functional, consider donating them to charitable organizations or repurposing parts for DIY projects. Key Takeaways: Avoid Landfill Disposal: Never throw electronics like TVs, monitors, or speakers in regular trash. Recycle Through E-Waste Programs: Utilize certified e-waste recycling services to properly dispose of electronic items. Check Retailers for Take-Back Programs: Some retailers offer take-back services, allowing you to dispose of or recycle your electronics responsibly.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Recycle your bike with Working Bikes Riding a bicycle is one of the most ecological transportation methods which would not require any energy sources such as fossil fuels. There are so many biking advocacy groups and organizations around the world. Some would provide bicycles to people in order for them to get access resources and opportunities by securing method of transportations. While other companies have been redistributing donated bicycles to underserved communities as a tool of empowerment. However the practice of each organization may differ, their extraordinary efforts have contributed for reducing waste, cutting down the fossil fuel consumptions, and diminishing wastes. There are a large number of organizations and groups which have been striving to share the power of bicycles. We will start with Chicago's very own, Working Bikes. But please also check out other projects in below. Working Bikes, Chicago (featured in the video) Working Bikes is a Chicago-based non-profit organization, 501(c)(3) organization.. gives donated bicycles new life by redistributing them as tools of empowerment in local and global communities. Since its inception in 1999, the amazing community of Working Bikes volunteers, staff, partners, and supporters have enabled new life for 100,000 bicycles across the globe and tens of thousands here in Chicago. Over one hundred thousand people have been empowered to access resources and opportunities that otherwise could have been out of reach - reducing waste, lessening pollution, and improving health in the process. Web address: www.workingbikes.org Address: 2434 S. Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60608 Phone: 773-847-5440 Business Hours: Wednesday 11 – 7pmThursday 11 – 7pmFriday 11 – 7pmSaturday 10 – 6pm Other cycling charities PeopleForBikes PeopleForBikes is one of the biggest cycling advocacy groups in the world. The organization’s mission is to improve the bicycling experience for everyone. The company has invested more than $30 million since its foundation in 1999 to make bicycling better. PeopleForBikes contributes to other national cycling charities to make the world a safer place to ride. One of the programs that PeopleForBikes offers is the Better Bike Share Partnership, which is a collaboration with The JPB Foundation that helps establish streamlined bike share programs. It’s not just an organization; it’s a movement. PeopleForBikes has connected the bicycle industry with individual riders to create one powerful voice. It represents all kinds of riders, including professional athletes and children who simply enjoy riding a bike. The organization has created political influence that has quadrupled federal investment in cycling. You can take action by letting political leaders know that bicycling is important to you, sharing your story or donating to the organization. Trips For Kids Trips For Kids helps introduce at-risk youth to cycling. It’s the largest youth development cycling association in the U.S. The organization’s mission is to provide transformational cycling experiences to young people in every community. The idea is that kids should be able to explore their environment and know the freedom of riding a bike. Bicycling in nature can help them expand their horizons, practice teamwork, empower themselves and establish independence. The first chapter was established in 1988. Social activist Marilyn Price delivered bicycle trail riding lessons to help kids learn about responsibility, achievement and environmental responsibility. The organization still runs a Trail Rides Program, which offers group trail riding in local parks, forests and other natural areas. It encourages children to develop relationships with peers, improve their self-confidence, connect with nature and learn the value of physical activity. Local Trips for Kids chapters create relationships with community organizations that work with children, like Boys and Girls Clubs and the YMCA, and invite them on excursions led by CPR/First Aid certified ride leaders. Leaders incorporate lessons about history, ecology and geology in their trail rides. Trips For Kids also offers Earn-a-Bike Workshops. These after-school programs teach children about bike maintenance and safety. While participating in projects, the children get credits that they can use to get their own bicycle. Mobile Bike Clinics provide access to bicycles and safety equipment for kids in need. This program brings the bikes to the children to teach them bicycling skills and safety. World Bicycle Relief After the devastation of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, F.K. and Leah Day created World Bicycle Relief to bring bicycles to people in need. They collaborated with aid organizations in Sri Lanka to supply bicycles to people who were displaced to help them regain access to careers, education and healthcare. The organization has distributed more than 24,000 bikes and reconnected entire communities through that project alone. After that, they partnered with RAPIDS, a health initiative in Zambia that trained and outfitted healthcare workers to help fight the AIDS epidemic. More than 23,000 bicycles have been distributed with this program. The organization has since developed multiple programs to enable access to bicycles in South America, Africa and Southeast Asia. It builds and allocates specially designed bikes that are rugged enough to handle the rural terrain in many developing countries. In 2015, it deployed almost 65,000 bicycles to people who needed them. Qhubeka Qhubeka allows people to earn bicycles to help them get to jobs, doctors and schools. The word “qhubeka” means “to progress” or “to move forward,” which is exactly what bicycles help people do in more ways than one. Bicycles can help individuals access the resources that they need in their communities, but they also allow entire societies to progress. This non-profit company has delivered more than 75,000 bicycles to people in need. Schoolchildren can earn bicycles by making a commitment to school attendance. Adults can volunteer in many areas, from planting trees to performing bike maintenance, to earn their own bicycles. Health workers are given bicycles to help them access their patients more easily. The organization also offers sports programs, which promote a healthy cycling culture and give people transportation to other sports activities. Finally, Qhubeka gives first responders bikes so that they can help as many people as possible during disaster recovery efforts. You can help by donating, fundraising, volunteering or shopping at Qhubeka’s online store. Wheels 4 Life Wheels 4 Life was founded by Hans Rey, a former Mountain Bike World Champion. It aims to help people in developing countries have access to the bicycles that they need for transportation to work and school. This program has helped people find and retain jobs, receive an education and even access health care. Working with local volunteers and leaders, Wheels 4 Life identifies the people who are most in need of this type of transportation. This may include people who live in remote areas who don’t have access to or can’t afford public transportation. A bike allows people to travel four times faster, four times farther and with four times the load as traveling on foot. Something as simple as access to a bicycle can significantly benefit someone’s life. The organization carefully selects candidates based on a comprehensive application process. A local Voluntary Project Leader helps to bestow the bicycles to the recipients and guarantees to provide safety and maintenance education. For every $150 that is donated, the organization can purchase one regular bike. A donation of $300 funds an ambulance bike. However, a donation of any amount is appreciated. Holding a fundraiser or simply spreading the word about the organization’s mission can also help. Wheels 4 Life has provided more than 11,029 bicycles in over 30 countries, but it says that there is a need for millions more bicycles. International Mountain Biking Association IMBA’s mission is to give everyone a place to ride a mountain bike. This non-profit organization works to create and protect mountain biking trails and areas. Established in 1988, the organization provides education about low-impact riding, sustainable trail design and creative land management strategies. IMBA provides professional resources and services for landowners and groups that want to develop trails for the sport. Trail-training seminars help people learn about building trails and managing crews to help with the projects. It has participated in more than 400 trail projects around the world. The organization has also helped develop the current guidelines for bike trail implementation that are used as a standard for developing mountain biking trails across the globe. The IMBA Trail Lab program teaches leaders and people who work in the park and tourism services about how to integrate trail access into the community. Donating to the charity helps support IMBA’s programs and initiatives that make mountain biking possible. Transportation Alternatives In a busy city where driving and parking can be difficult, many people use bikes as their main form of transportation. Transportation Alternatives says that the sidewalks of New York City make up 80 percent of the public space there. People need space to be able to maneuver through the maze of traffic. Since 1970, TransAlt has constructed more than 1,000 miles of cycling paths in the city and introduced protected bike lanes. The organization also established the first public bike share system in New York City. The mission is to achieve Vision Zero, which means no serious injuries or deaths resulting from the city’s busy traffic. The group works to improve infrastructure and change traffic regulations to make the streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists. TransAlt arranges bike tours that serve as fundraisers for their projects. You can also support its campaigns by creating a petition, signing a petition or gathering people to organize your own campaign. TransAlt provides workshops that teach the public how to use their voices for activism and plan and run awareness and fundraising events. 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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Bags, Backpacks, and Wallets 1. Reuse or Donate: If your bags, backpacks, or wallets are in good condition, consider donating them to local charities, thrift stores, shelters, or organizations that distribute essentials to those in need. 2. Repair: Many bags and wallets can be repaired with simple fixes like sewing, patching, or replacing zippers. 3. Recycling: Some brands and retailers offer take-back programs for bags and backpacks made of recyclable materials. Fabric-based bags may be accepted at textile recycling programs. Leather and synthetic materials are generally not accepted in curbside recycling but may be repurposed by specialty recycling programs. 4. Disposal: If the bag, backpack, or wallet is beyond repair or reuse, dispose of it in regular trash if no recycling option is available. Avoid sending items to landfills when possible by exploring upcycling or creative reuse projects.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposable Contact Lens, Cases and Solution Bottles Disposing and recycling daily contact lens cases, plastic blister packs, and solution bottles require specific steps since these materials are often not accepted in regular curbside recycling. Here’s how you can properly handle them: 1. Contact Lens Blister Packs (Plastic & Foil Lids) The plastic blister packs are typically made of polypropylene (#5 plastic). Some curbside recycling programs accept them, but many do not due to their small size. If your local recycling doesn’t accept them, TerraCycle and Bausch + Lomb’s ONE by ONE recycling program allow you to mail in used blister packs for proper recycling. The foil lids should be separated and recycled with aluminum if your program accepts it. 2. Contact Lens Cases Hard plastic contact lens cases are usually made of polypropylene (#5 plastic). Some curbside programs accept them, but you should check locally. If not, consider reusing them for travel or small storage needs before disposing of them in the trash. 3. Used Contact Lenses Contact lenses are not recyclable in curbside bins because they are too small and can contaminate recycling streams. Programs like Bausch + Lomb’s ONE by ONE and TerraCycle accept used contact lenses for proper recycling. 4. Contact Lens Solution Bottles Most contact lens solution bottles are made of PET or HDPE plastic (#1 or #2 ), which are widely accepted in curbside recycling. Rinse out the bottle before recycling it. How to Dispose or Recycle Contact Lenses 1. Do NOT Throw Them Down the Drain or Toilet Contact lenses are small and flexible, making them prone to slipping through wastewater filters and ending up in water systems, contributing to microplastic pollution . 2. Standard Recycling Bins Do NOT Accept Them Contact lenses are too small and made of a mix of plastics that are not typically accepted in curbside recycling. 3. Use Specialized Recycling Programs Bausch + Lomb’s ONE by ONE Recycling Program (U.S. & Canada) Accepts used contact lenses, blister packs, and foil lids. Drop-off locations are available at participating eye care providers, or you can mail them in for free. TerraCycle Contact Lens Recycling Program Some brands partner with TerraCycle to offer take-back programs for contact lenses and their packaging. 4. If No Recycling Program is Available If no specialized recycling program is accessible, dispose of used contact lenses in the trash rather than flushing them to prevent environmental harm.

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

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Mercury Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health and environmental damage if not properly handled. It is commonly found in household items like thermometers, thermostats, light bulbs, batteries, and certain electrical devices. When disposed of improperly, mercury can contaminate water, soil, and the air, leading to harmful effects on wildlife and human health. Here's how you should dispose of mercury-containing items safely: 1. Mercury-Containing Items: a. Thermometers and Thermostats: Mercury Thermometers : Older thermometers, especially those used for medical or scientific purposes, often contain mercury. Modern thermometers may be mercury-free, but if you still have one, it should be disposed of properly. Mercury Thermostats : Some older thermostats may also contain mercury. When replacing old thermostats, ensure the old one is handled properly. b. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs): CFLs contain a small amount of mercury vapor inside the glass. Although these bulbs are energy-efficient, they need special care when being disposed of. c. Batteries: Button Cell Batteries: Some small button cell batteries, especially older ones, contain mercury and should not be thrown in the trash. Other Mercury Batteries: Older batteries, including some types of alkaline batteries, may contain mercury. d. Electrical Devices and Appliances: Certain electrical devices, like switches or relays, might contain mercury. Common examples include old refrigerators, light dimmers, and industrial equipment. 2. Safe Disposal Methods: a. Do Not Throw Away in Regular Trash: Toxic Hazard : Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can contaminate the environment, including groundwater and soil. Never dispose of mercury-containing products in regular household trash, recycling bins, or down the drain. b. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Centers: Take to HHW Facilities : The best way to dispose of mercury-containing items is by bringing them to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection center. These facilities are designed to safely dispose of hazardous materials, including mercury. Check Local Collection Programs : Many communities offer collection events for hazardous materials, including mercury. Contact your local waste management facility or check their website to find a drop-off location. c. CFL and Light Bulb Disposal: Special Collection Locations : Many hardware stores and recycling centers accept used CFL bulbs and other mercury-containing light bulbs. Check with your local retailer or recycling center for drop-off programs. Never Break : Be sure not to break the bulbs. If one does break, follow specific cleaning instructions to avoid exposure to mercury vapor. Ventilate the area, wear gloves, and carefully clean up the fragments. d. Recycling Mercury-Containing Devices: Recycling Programs : Certain mercury-containing devices, such as thermostats and thermometers, may be eligible for specialized recycling programs. Look for manufacturer take-back programs or retailers who provide safe recycling options. 3. What to Do if Mercury Spills: a. If You Spill Mercury (e.g., from a thermometer or light bulb): Evacuate the Area : If mercury is spilled, especially if it comes from a broken thermometer or light bulb, ventilate the area immediately and leave the room for at least 15 minutes. Don’t Use a Vacuum : Do not use a vacuum cleaner to pick up mercury. This can cause mercury to spread and vaporize, increasing the risk of exposure. Collect the Mercury Carefully : Use sticky tape or duct tape to pick up the small mercury beads. Place them in a sealed container and bring it to an HHW facility for proper disposal. b. Cleaning Instructions for Small Spills: Use Gloves : Always wear gloves and avoid direct contact with the mercury. Place Mercury in a Sealed Container : Carefully pick up the mercury beads with sticky tape or a damp cloth and place them into a sealed container. Do Not Dispose in Trash : Ensure the container is properly sealed and labeled, and dispose of it at an appropriate HHW disposal site. 4. Key Takeaways: Mercury is toxic , and it must never be thrown in regular trash or poured down drains. Household hazardous waste (HHW) centers are the best option for disposing of mercury-containing items safely. CFL light bulbs, thermometers, thermostats, and some batteries contain mercury and need special disposal. Always clean up mercury spills carefully and avoid direct contact. 5. Recycling Options: Mercury-Free Alternatives : Consider switching to mercury-free alternatives, such as LED lights or digital thermometers, to minimize the use of mercury-containing products. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs : Some manufacturers offer recycling programs for items containing mercury, such as thermostats and switches.

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 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 Non-Electric Hand Tools (Wrenches, Screwdrivers, Nails, Hammers, etc.) ✅ Recycling & Disposal Options: Donate or Reuse : If the tools are still in good condition, donate them to local charities, community tool libraries, schools, or vocational training programs. Sell or Give Away : Online marketplaces, thrift stores, or local swap groups may accept used tools. Scrap Metal Recycling : Many hand tools are made of metal and can be taken to a local scrap metal recycling facility. Hardware Store Trade-Ins : Some home improvement stores have recycling programs for old tools—check with local retailers. 🚫 Do NOT place in curbside recycling : Most curbside programs do not accept metal tools due to their size and material composition.

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 < Back The history of preserved food The history of preserved food dates back thousands of years and is closely tied to the development of human civilization, particularly in terms of food security, survival, and trade. Preservation methods have evolved over time, enabling people to store food for times of scarcity, extend shelf life, and transport it over long distances. Here's an overview of the key developments in the history of preserved food: 1. Ancient Preservation Techniques Early humans relied on various natural methods to preserve food. These techniques were largely driven by necessity and the need to deal with seasonal food availability. Drying : One of the earliest preservation methods. Sun-drying or air-drying fruits, meats, and grains removed moisture, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold. Examples include dried fish, jerky, and dried fruits like raisins. Salting : Salting was used by ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans to preserve fish and meat. Salt draws out moisture, which helps prevent spoilage. Salted fish and cured meats (like ham) were staples for long journeys or during winter months. Fermentation : Fermentation is an ancient method of preserving food by encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria. This process was used to preserve vegetables, milk, and grains, leading to foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, and beer. Fermentation not only preserves food but also enhances its nutritional content. Smoking : Smoking was used as both a preservation and flavoring technique. Meats like fish, beef, and pork were hung over smoke from burning wood or herbs, which not only dried the food but also imbued it with preservatives in the smoke, such as phenols and acids. 2. Middle Ages The Middle Ages saw advancements in food preservation, particularly in Europe, as a result of trade, exploration, and the need to store food for long winters. Pickling : This technique, which uses vinegar or brine, was popular for preserving vegetables and meats. It became common in many parts of the world, including Europe and Asia. Sugar Preservation : The use of sugar to preserve fruits became prominent during this time, with jams, jellies, and preserves becoming important foodstuffs, especially in colder months when fresh fruit was scarce. Honey Preservation : In addition to sugar, honey was also used as a preservative, especially for fruits, as it has natural antibacterial properties. 3. 17th and 18th Centuries: The Birth of Canning The 17th century saw significant progress in food preservation, particularly with the advent of canning. Canning : In the 1800s, French chemist Nicolas Appert is credited with inventing the process of canning. Appert discovered that food could be sealed in glass jars and heated to destroy microorganisms. This allowed food to be stored for extended periods without refrigeration. Appert's work was later refined, and metal cans began to replace glass jars. This method was especially important during military campaigns and for long voyages. 4. 19th Century: Refrigeration and Pasteurization The 19th century introduced more advanced techniques that would revolutionize food preservation. Refrigeration : In the early 1800s, iceboxes became popular for storing food at a low temperature. In the late 19th century, mechanical refrigeration was introduced, which allowed fresh food to be stored for longer periods and transported more widely. Pasteurization : In the 1860s, Louis Pasteur discovered that heating liquids (like milk and wine) to a specific temperature could kill harmful microorganisms. This process, known as pasteurization, became widely used for preserving liquids, particularly milk and juices, and preventing spoilage. 5. 20th Century: Industrialization of Food Preservation The 20th century saw the widespread adoption of various food preservation technologies, including chemical preservation and refrigeration. Freezing : The invention of home and commercial freezers in the mid-20th century revolutionized food preservation. Freezing foods like vegetables, meats, and prepared meals allowed them to retain their nutritional value and extend their shelf life. Chemical Additives : The use of preservatives like sodium benzoate, sulfur dioxide, and nitrates became widespread, particularly in processed foods. These chemicals helped to prevent spoilage and enhance the appearance and flavor of foods. Vacuum Sealing : The development of vacuum sealing and vacuum packaging allowed food to be stored for longer periods by removing air, thus reducing the growth of microorganisms. Ready-to-Eat Meals : The rise of convenience foods, such as canned soups, TV dinners, and dehydrated meals, became a hallmark of the 20th century. These products were easy to store and prepare, making them highly popular in industrialized nations. 6. Modern Day Preservation In today's world, food preservation continues to evolve, with an emphasis on health, sustainability, and new technologies. High Pressure Processing (HPP) : HPP is a relatively new method that uses high pressure to kill bacteria without the need for heat. This process helps to preserve the nutrients and flavor of fresh food. Freeze-Drying : Freeze-drying involves freezing food and then removing the water content under vacuum conditions. This method preserves the food's nutrients and flavor and is commonly used for emergency food supplies, camping, and astronaut food. Fermented and Probiotic Foods : With an increased focus on gut health, fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, and kimchi are popular today for their health benefits, in addition to their preservation qualities. Sources: "The Oxford Companion to Food" by Alan Davidson This comprehensive reference book provides in-depth explanations on various aspects of food history, including preservation methods and their evolution through time. "The Science and Fine Art of Food and Nutrition" by Arnold Ehret This work discusses the nutritional aspects of food, including preservation methods that contribute to maintaining the quality and health benefits of food. National Geographic - Food Preservation National Geographic offers articles that explain the science of food preservation, from ancient techniques to modern innovations. Website: National Geographic "Food in History" by Reay Tannahill This book is a thorough exploration of the history of food, including the methods used to preserve it throughout different eras of human history. "The History of Canning" - The National Canners Association (NCA) The NCA offers a detailed history of canning, from its inception to its widespread use in the 19th and 20th centuries. Website: National Canners Association History "Salt: A World History" by Mark Kurlansky This book delves into the role of salt in food preservation throughout history, discussing how it became integral to various cultures and their food systems. "Fermented: A Four-Season Approach to Paleo Probiotic Foods" by Jill Ciciarelli This book focuses on fermented foods, their role in food preservation, and how they have been integral to various cultures worldwide. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) FAO offers research and articles on modern food preservation techniques, especially focusing on sustainability and food security issues.Website : FAO - Food Preservation "The Preservation of Food" by J. G. Vaughan A detailed text that explains various traditional and modern food preservation methods, including freezing, pickling, and canning. ←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→