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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Plastic Bags Plastic bags, including grocery bags, bread bags, and produce bags, are widely used but pose significant environmental challenges due to their durability and lightweight nature. They can take hundreds of years to break down and often contribute to pollution and wildlife harm. Recycling Options: ♻️ Retail Drop-Off Bins: Most curbside recycling programs do not accept plastic bags because they tangle in sorting machines. However, many grocery stores and retailers have designated drop-off bins for clean and dry plastic bags.♻️ Plastic Film Recycling Programs: Some local recycling centers accept plastic film, which includes bags, shrink wrap, and bubble wrap. Check programs like How2Recycle for locations. Disposal: 🗑 Trash Bin: If recycling is not an option, plastic bags should be placed in the trash. Never put them in curbside recycling bins unless explicitly accepted. Eco-Friendly Alternatives: ✔ Reusable Bags: Invest in cloth, jute, or durable tote bags to minimize plastic waste.✔ Paper Bags: When available, choose paper bags, which are biodegradable and often recyclable.✔ Biodegradable or Compostable Bags: Some bags are designed to break down faster, but ensure they are properly certified for composting. Environmental Concerns: 🚨 Wildlife Hazards: Plastic bags can entangle or be ingested by animals, leading to injury or death.🚨 Microplastic Pollution: When plastic bags break down, they release microplastics into soil and waterways.🚨 Littering: Lightweight plastic bags often blow away and accumulate in natural environments. Key Takeaways: ✅ Avoid single-use plastic bags by bringing reusable options.✅ Recycle properly at designated drop-off locations.✅ Dispose of responsibly to prevent environmental damage. By making small, sustainable choices, we can reduce plastic waste and protect ecosystems! 🌍♻️

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards How to Dispose or Recycle Propane and Oxygen Tanks Propane Tanks Do NOT dispose of propane tanks in regular trash or recycling bins. Refill or exchange: Many retailers (e.g., hardware stores, gas stations, and propane suppliers) offer tank exchange programs where you can trade in an empty tank for a full one. Propane tank recycling centers These centers are usually located at gas stations or hardware stores They are designed to safely recycle and reuse propane tanks Hazardous waste disposal sites You can contact your local hazardous waste disposal site about taking the tank Hardware stores Many hardware stores, such as Lowes and Home Depot, work with partners that do propane tank trade-ins or recycling You can call your local hardware or home and garden store and ask if you can return or trade in old tanks there You should never attempt to dispose of a propane tank yourself, as it can be dangerous if not done properly Propane tanks are a household hazardous waste and they don't belong at the curb for collection in your recycling or garbage Oxygen Tanks Do NOT throw oxygen tanks in the trash or recycling bins. Return to the supplier: Many medical supply companies, hospitals, and gas suppliers accept used oxygen tanks for refilling or proper disposal . Contact a hazardous waste facility: Some municipal hazardous waste collection sites accept oxygen tanks. Scrap metal recycling: If the tank is completely empty and the valve is removed, some metal recycling centers may accept it. However, confirm with the facility first. For specific drop-off locations, check with: 🔹 Your local hazardous waste disposal program 🔹 Propane suppliers (e.g., AmeriGas, Blue Rhino, or Ferrellgas) 🔹 Medical equipment suppliers for oxygen tanks You should never attempt to dispose of a pressured tank yourself, as it can be dangerous if not done properly Pressured tanks are a household hazardous waste and they don't belong at the curb for collection in your recycling or garbage

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Anaerobic Composting: A Low-Oxygen Approach to Waste Breakdown Nearly airtight black bag Anaerobic Composting: A Low-Oxygen Approach to Waste Breakdown Anaerobic composting is an alternative decomposition process that occurs in the absence of oxygen. Unlike traditional aerobic composting, which relies on oxygen-dependent microbes to break down organic matter, anaerobic composting uses bacteria that thrive in oxygen-free environments. This method can be beneficial in situations where space, time, or odor control is a concern. How Anaerobic Composting Works Anaerobic composting involves sealing organic waste in an airtight container or underground environment, where it undergoes microbial digestion. The process produces biogas (methane and carbon dioxide) and nutrient-rich byproducts that can be used as fertilizer. Key Steps in Anaerobic Composting: Selecting a Composting System – Options include bokashi bins, burial composting, or anaerobic digesters. Adding Organic Waste – Food scraps, manure, and plant matter can be used, but excessive fats or proteins should be avoided. Sealing the System – Containers must remain airtight to prevent oxygen infiltration. Microbial Fermentation – Naturally occurring or introduced microbes break down the waste. Harvesting the Byproducts – After a few weeks to months, the material can be further composted or used as soil amendments. Types of Anaerobic Composting 1. Bokashi Composting Uses effective microorganisms (EM) to ferment food waste. Requires a sealed bucket and bokashi bran (a mix of wheat bran, molasses, and microbes). The process takes 2-4 weeks, after which the pre-composted material is buried in soil. Source: Bokashi Living 2. Burial Composting (Pit or Trench Composting) Organic waste is buried directly in the soil to decompose anaerobically. A simple, low-maintenance method but requires time for full decomposition (several months). Source: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) 3. Anaerobic Digesters Used in large-scale composting and biogas production. Produces methane, which can be captured for energy use. Requires specialized equipment and management. Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Advantages of Anaerobic Composting ✔️ Works in Limited Space – Ideal for urban settings and small households.✔️ Less Maintenance – No turning or aeration required.✔️ Energy Recovery – Biogas can be used as a renewable energy source.✔️ Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions – When managed properly, methane can be captured and used. Challenges and Considerations ⚠️ Odor Concerns – Without proper sealing, anaerobic composting can produce strong odors.⚠️ Slower Decomposition – Breakdown takes longer than aerobic composting.⚠️ Potential Methane Release – If not captured, methane emissions can contribute to climate change. Conclusion Anaerobic composting offers a sustainable alternative for managing organic waste, especially in environments where traditional composting is impractical. Whether through bokashi, burial methods, or large-scale digesters, this oxygen-free decomposition process provides valuable organic matter and, in some cases, a renewable energy source. However, careful management is necessary to minimize odors and methane emissions. For those looking for an easy way to start anaerobic composting, bokashi bins provide an accessible option, while anaerobic digesters offer potential for large-scale waste management and energy production.

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 LAND < Back Droughts The Amazon River, located in the heart of the Brazilian rainforest, has experienced its lowest water level in over a century due to a severe drought. This drought is affecting the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and causing harm to the jungle ecosystem. Drying tributaries have stranded boats, leading to food and water shortages in remote villages, and the high water temperatures are believed to be responsible for the deaths of more than 100 endangered river dolphins. The port of Manaus, the most populous city in the region, recorded the lowest water level since record-keeping began in 1902. The drought has been attributed to the El Nino climate phenomenon and is expected to persist until at least December. Over 481,000 people have been impacted, with food and supplies becoming scarce. This situation has raised concerns about water quality and health issues among the affected communities. 10/2023 Sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evsdYzjWqI0 https://www.reuters.com/.../amazon-rainforest-port.../

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Underneath those patched rags (Boro) resides a heart of golden brocade. My mother taught me a Japanese proverb, "Underneath those patched rags (Boro) resides a heart of golden brocade." (襤褸は着てるが心は錦) The word, "Boro" is a traditional textile practice originating from impoverished rural Japan, particularly among peasants and farmers dating back to the early 1600s. Boro refers to textiles that are worn out, no longer usable, and garments that are old, torn, or patched. Boro textiles were born out of the practical need to extend the lifespan of fabrics and garments in an era where new textiles were not easily attainable for many people. During that era, garments were never discarded; instead, they were recycled persistently across generations. Through layering, stitching, and patching, individuals would mend and reinforce their clothing and other textiles. People employed a traditional stitching technique known as "Sashiko" on linen garments, both to preserve warmth and enhance durability. Over time, these mended and patched areas accumulated, creating the distinctive aesthetic that defines Boro. It is intricately interwoven with family history and memories, gaining indescribable beauty and significance. ** The pictures are vintage boro kimonos and a modern jacket with upcycled-boro garment. ←Previous Next→

Review the terms and conditions for using the Connecting The Dots Project (CTDP) website. Understand your rights, responsibilities, and our policies to ensure a secure and transparent experience while accessing our resources and services. Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Terms & Conditions Terms and Conditions for Website and Connecting The Dots Project (CTDP) 1. Acceptance of Terms By accessing or using the Free Exchange Website (the "Website") and/or the Connecting The Dots Project (CTDP), you agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, you are prohibited from using the Website and/or CTDP services. 2. User Eligibility 2.1. Users must be at least 18 years of age or the legal age in their jurisdiction to use this forum or membership page. 2.2. Users are required to provide accurate, complete, and up-to-date information when registering for an account or using the Website's services. CTDP reserves the right to restrict, suspend, or terminate accounts if this condition is not met. 3. Account Registration 3.1. Users must create an account to access certain features and services on the Website. 3.2. Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their account credentials, including usernames and passwords. 3.3. CTDP, its owners, and staff are not liable for any misuse or unauthorized activity conducted through user accounts. Users are encouraged to take precautions to secure their accounts. 4. Website Use 4.1. Users agree to adhere to all applicable laws when using the Website and CTDP services. 4.2. Prohibited uses include illegal activities, unauthorized access attempts, harassment, hate speech, and spam. 4.3. CTDP, its owners, and staff reserve the right to terminate access for violating these terms and take legal action when necessary. 5. Content and Exchanges 5.1. Users are solely responsible for the content they post, including text, images, and other media. 5.2. Items exchanged must be legally owned and eligible for transfer under applicable laws. 5.3. CTDP, its owners, and staff disclaim responsibility for the legality, quality, safety, or condition of exchanged items and do not mediate disputes. Users participate in exchanges at their own risk. 6. Termination of Accounts 6.1. CTDP, its owners, and staff retain the right to suspend or terminate accounts for violations of these terms or disruptive activities without notice. 6.2. Users lose access to all account privileges upon termination. 7. Privacy and Data 7.1. Refer to the Privacy Policy for details on data collection and usage. Continued use of the Website implies agreement with the Privacy Policy. 8. Intellectual Property 8.1. Users retain ownership of their posted content but grant CTDP a license for its use. 8.2. Unauthorized use of CTDP’s intellectual property is prohibited. 9. Disclaimer 9.1. Services are provided “as is.” CTDP, its owners, and staff disclaim any guarantees of availability or accuracy. 10. Limitation of Liability 10.1. CTDP, its owners, staff, affiliates, employees, agents, and contractors shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use the Website or services. 11. Changes to Terms and Conditions 11.1. CTDP may update these terms at any time. Continued use constitutes acceptance of the revised terms. 12. Governing Law 12.1. These terms are governed by the laws of [State Name], United States. 13. Dispute Resolution 13.1. The Free Exchange Website and Connecting The Dots Project (CTDP) act as platforms for communication and exchange between users. CTDP does not mediate, arbitrate, or involve itself in disputes or conflicts arising between users. 13.2. Any disputes or claims arising from interactions, exchanges, or transactions between users are solely the responsibility of the parties involved. Users are encouraged to resolve such disputes independently and in accordance with applicable laws. 13.3. CTDP disclaims any liability or obligation to participate in, resolve, or enforce outcomes related to disputes between users. Furthermore, CTDP shall not be liable for any costs, including but not limited to court fees, legal representation, or other expenses incurred in settling disputes between users. 14. Indemnification 14.1. Users agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless CTDP, its owners, staff, affiliates, employees, agents, and contractors from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses, including attorney's fees, arising from the use of the Website or violations of these terms.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Western monarch population decline due to wildfires Monarch Butterflies The western monarch butterfly population has experienced a dramatic decline, with recent counts revealing a 96% decrease from the previous year, totaling just 9,119 individuals—the second-lowest number in nearly three decades. Several factors contribute to this decline, including habitat loss, climate change, pesticide use, and extreme weather events. Wildfires, in particular, have had a significant impact on monarch habitats. For instance, the Palisades Fire burned vegetation at Lower Topanga Creek in Topanga State Park, destroying nectar sources vital for the butterflies. The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires not only destroy critical habitats but also disrupt the migratory patterns of monarchs, making it challenging for them to find suitable overwintering sites and food sources. Conservationists are advocating for the listing of the monarch butterfly under the U.S. Endangered Species Act to provide legal protections and promote habitat restoration efforts. Individuals can also contribute by planting native milkweed and nectar-rich plants, reducing pesticide use, and participating in citizen science projects to monitor monarch populations. The decline of the monarch butterfly serves as a stark reminder of the broader environmental challenges posed by climate change and habitat destruction. Immediate and concerted efforts are essential to prevent the potential extinction of this iconic species. Sources: https://www.thetimes.com/us/news-today/article/americas-most-famous-butterfly-in-peril-as-population-vanishes-n82pbqvtk?utm_source=chatgpt.com®ion=global www.sfgate.com Famed species' population close to hitting all-time low in California California's western monarch butterfly population dropped from 200,000 to just over 9,000 this winter. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/sep/29/every-tree-used-to-be-blanketed-with-them-photographer-captures-campaign-to-save-monarch-butterfly?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Cloud Seeding Did you hear the recent news about the flooding in Dubai in April 2024? There's been debate over whether cloud seeding caused the flood. But what exactly is cloud seeding? Cloud seeding is a fascinating technique used to modify weather patterns by spraying specific agents into clouds. This method aims to influence precipitation and potentially alleviate water scarcity in arid regions. Clouds, consisting of minuscule water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere, form when warm, moist air rises, cools, and condenses around condensation nuclei. These droplets remain airborne due to their small size and the upward movement of air currents. As clouds become saturated with moisture, the droplets coalesce into larger raindrops. Eventually, gravity prevails, causing the droplets to descend as precipitation. Cloud seeding introduces artificial nuclei into clouds, such as silver iodide, dry ice, and potassium iodide. Typically, aircraft or ground-based generators disperse these agents into clouds, facilitating the bonding of tiny droplets and promoting the formation of snow or rain. Cloud seeding can help combat droughts, boost snowfall for winter sports, suppress hail, and replenish water reservoirs. In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, cloud seeding was used to ensure clear skies and reduce the likelihood of rainfall during key events. But why hasn't cloud seeding solved water shortages around the world? There are several reasons. Firstly, cloud seeding requires suitable clouds with enough moisture content to produce precipitation. Additionally, in desert environments, water droplets formed through cloud seeding may evaporate before reaching the ground. Lastly, cloud seeding involves the introduction of seeding agents, such as silver iodide or potassium iodide, into the atmosphere. While these agents are generally considered safe in small quantities, there may be environmental and health concerns associated with their widespread use, especially in delicate desert ecosystems. Remember, every raindrop counts! 12/16/2024 Resources: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-68839043 https://www.aoml.noaa.gov/hrd/hrd_sub/cseed.html

< Back Title Apply Now Job Location Job Type Job Type Workspace Workspace About the Role You can get more out of your site elements by making them dynamic. To connect this element to content from your collection, select the element and click Connect to Data. Once connected, you can update it anytime without affecting your design or updating elements by hand. Add any type of content to your collection, such as rich text, images, videos and more, or upload it via CSV file. You can also collect and store information from your site visitors using input elements like custom forms and fields. Requirements About the Company You can get more out of your site elements by making them dynamic. To connect this element to content from your collection, select the element and click Connect to Data. Once connected, you can save time by updating your content straight from your collection—no need to open the Editor, or mess with your design. Add any type of content to your collection, such as rich text, images, videos and more, or upload a CSV file. You can also collect and store information from your site visitors using input elements like custom forms and fields. Collaborate on your content across teams by assigning permissions setting custom permissions for every collection. Be sure to click Sync after making changes in a collection, so visitors can see your newest content on your live site. Preview your site to check that all your elements are displaying content from the right collection fields. Ready to publish? Simply click Publish in the top right of the Editor and your changes will appear live. Apply Now

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards What is Dragonfly Mercury Project? Mercury is a potent neurotoxin, and its release into the environment can lead to severe health issues for both humans and wildlife. It can contaminate water, air, and soil. In water, it can transform into methylmercury, a highly toxic form that can bioaccumulate in the food chain, posing a significant risk to aquatic life and those who consume contaminated fish and seafood. Mercury pollution in the environment is primarily caused by human activities, such as small-scale gold mining, coal-fired power plants, industrial processes, the use of mercury-containing fungicides and pesticides, and improper waste disposal. Natural sources also contribute to a lesser extent. While human activities are the primary cause of mercury pollution, natural sources, such as volcanic eruptions and weathering of rocks, also release small amounts of mercury into the environment. The Dragonfly Mercury Project is a scientific research initiative primarily in the U.S. focused on studying mercury contamination in aquatic ecosystems, specifically using dragonflies as bioindicators. Dragonflies, as aquatic insects, spend a significant portion of their life cycle in water as nymphs before emerging as adults. They are also predatory insects, feeding on other aquatic organisms, which makes them effective bioindicators of mercury contamination in aquatic ecosystems. The mercury levels in dragonfly larvae (nymphs) reflect the amount of mercury present in their aquatic habitats, providing valuable information on mercury pollution in these environments. Sources: https://www.fs.usda.gov/.../dragonfly-larvae-help-detect ... https://geonarrative.usgs.gov/dmp/

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Solar power generating 18% of the electricity of the University of Pittsburgh campus About 18% of the electricity usage of the University of Pittsburgh campus per year will be generated by a new solar project!! The University of Pittsburgh and Vesper Energy launched the Gaucho Solar Project on August 16, 2023. The Gaucho Solar project is set to generate over 35,700 megawatt-hours of electricity each year, leading to a reduction of 15,452 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually for Pitt's greenhouse gas emissions. This reduction is comparable to removing approximately 3,330 cars powered by gasoline from the road. Resources: Photo: Pitt Sustainability https://www.sustainable.pitt.edu/pitts-commitment-to-local-solar-energy/?fbclid=IwAR1ZE1FstVw9Z8UajksFno0o_NAzKpA4OJoSveatKSb4ZKoR20oNMEfP3Vg