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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Cooling Centers Around the U.S. for Hot Weather Days Be safe!! Unprecedented heat waves due to climate change have been reported all over the world this summer. It is extremely important to stay cool, wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated. If you do not have a sufficient cooling system at home, you can stay at a friend's or relative's house, or visit a cooling center. Attached is a list of cooling centers by state. Please keep in mind that not all states offer a directory of cooling centers. It appears to be individually issued by county or city. If you cannot find a cooling center in your area, please call your local municipality for more information. Please feel free to share the file. https://drive.google.com/.../1fF54yonty2ZBviOCRkI.../view ...

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Ultra-Efficient Wind Turbine Designed by Artificial Intelligence Image: courtesy of birmingham.ac.uk British company EvoPhase has unveiled the Birmingham Blade, an innovative wind turbine designed specifically for urban environments. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), this turbine is reportedly up to seven times more efficient than traditional designs in similar settings. According to Birmingham Blade, the new wind turbine design can generate 7 times the amount of energy as conventional blades operating under the urban areas. AI-Driven Design Process EvoPhase employed an AI-driven evolutionary design process that mimics natural selection. This approach allowed the team to generate and evaluate over 2,000 turbine designs within weeks, significantly accelerating development and reducing costs compared to conventional methods. Optimized for Urban Wind Conditions Traditional wind turbines are typically optimized for wind speeds around 10 meters per second. However, urban areas like Birmingham experience lower average wind speeds, approximately 3.6 meters per second, coupled with turbulence from surrounding buildings. The Birmingham Blade's design addresses these challenges, making it compact and lightweight for rooftop installations. birmingham.ac.uk Manufacturing and Testing In collaboration with precision metal fabricators KwikFab, EvoPhase produced the first iteration of the Birmingham Blade. An aluminum version is slated for rooftop testing in Birmingham to validate its real-world performance. If successful, the final product is expected to be available by late 2025. Implications for Urban Renewable Energy The Birmingham Blade represents a significant advancement in urban renewable energy solutions. Its AI-optimized design offers a practical approach to harnessing wind power in cities, potentially reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and contributing to sustainability goals. For a visual overview of the Birmingham Blade and its potential impact, you can watch the following video:

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 Code of Conduct Connecting the Dots Project Forum: Code of Conduct Welcome to the Connecting the Dots Project online forum! This platform is dedicated to fostering meaningful conversations, collaboration, and advocacy for environmental and social change. To ensure a safe, inclusive, and constructive environment for everyone, we have established the following Code of Conduct: 1. Respect and Inclusivity Treat every participant with respect, regardless of their background, beliefs, or opinions. Avoid discriminatory language or behavior based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, ability, or socioeconomic status. Be mindful of cultural differences and aim to create an inclusive space where all voices are heard. 2. Constructive Communication Engage in discussions with the intent to understand and collaborate, not to argue or belittle others. Critique ideas, not individuals. Provide constructive feedback when necessary. Avoid inflammatory or disrespectful language, including personal attacks, harassment, or trolling. 3. Stay on Topic Ensure your posts, comments, and messages align with the forum’s purpose: promoting environmental advocacy, sharing ideas, and supporting community-driven solutions. Avoid spamming, irrelevant promotions, or excessive self-promotion unrelated to the forum’s mission. 4. Privacy and Safety Protect your own privacy and the privacy of others. Do not share sensitive personal information without explicit consent. Avoid meeting strangers from the forum in person unless proper safety measures are in place (e.g., meeting in public spaces and informing a trusted person of your plans). Use respectful and professional language in all communications. 5. Intellectual Property and Crediting Sources Give proper credit to authors, creators, and contributors when sharing information, resources, or ideas. Do not plagiarize or post copyrighted material without permission. 6. Zero Tolerance for Harassment and Stalking Harassment, threats, stalking, or hate speech of any kind will not be tolerated. Report any instances of harassment or stalking to the moderators immediately. 7. Environmental Responsibility Posts and discussions should align with the Connecting the Dots Project’s mission of promoting environmental and social advocacy. Share actionable ideas, resources, and practices that encourage sustainable living and community engagement. 8. Moderator Authority Moderators are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the forum. They reserve the right to remove posts, warn users, or ban accounts that violate this Code of Conduct. Moderators do not represent the Connecting the Dots Project or its staff and are independent participants tasked with ensuring compliance within the forum. Decisions made by moderators are final, but constructive feedback about moderation policies is welcome through appropriate channels. 9. Reporting Violations If you witness or experience a violation of this Code of Conduct, please report it to the moderators immediately by using the forum’s reporting tools or contacting the designated email at support@connectingthedotsproject.org . All reports will be handled with discretion and care. 10. Commitment to Growth This Code of Conduct is a living document. We are committed to updating and improving it as our community evolves.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards The Moon Festival: Celebrating Celestial Wonder and Ancestry The Moon Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is a time-honored cultural celebration with a history spanning over 3,000 years in China. Typically falling on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, which corresponds to September or early October in the Gregorian calendar, the festival is marked by various customs and legends. While the precise origins of this festival are not extensively documented, it is deeply intertwined with ancient Chinese traditions and folklore. The festival's roots are believed to be connected to agricultural and celestial observations, including the harvest season and moon worship practices. The formalization of the Mid-Autumn Festival as a significant cultural event occurred during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) and continued to evolve through subsequent dynasties. As an illustration, Empress Dowager Cixi had a deep appreciation for the Moon Festival. Despite her busy schedule as a ruler, she annually set aside five days to stage elaborate moon-worship rituals during the festival. These ceremonies were conducted with great pomp and grandeur within the Forbidden City in Beijing, the imperial palace of the Qing Dynasty. Additionally, as per folk tales, mooncakes have been associated with a legend of an emperor: the attempt to overthrow Mongol rule. Zhu Yuanzhang, along with his trusted adviser and military strategist Liu Bowen, devised a clever strategy before the Mid-Autumn Festival. They conceived the idea of concealing revolutionary messages and vital communications within mooncakes. Zhu later ascended to become the emperor during the Ming Dynasty. There are a few different versions of the story. sweets, consider pairing these treats with traditional Oolong teas, especially charcoal-baked Oolong varieties like Yancha, Dancong Oolong, White Orchid Oolong, Charcoal-baked Tie Guan Yin, or Osmanthus Tea. These teas complement the flavors of Moon Cakes beautifully, enhancing the experience of this ancient festival. Sources https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLKgT2rR_ZU https://blog.rosettastone.com/traditional-table-honoring.../ https://teewald.com/.../tees-zum-mid-autumn-festival ... . https://www.scmp.com/.../why-do-we-eat-mooncakes-mid ... https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/.../Mid-Autumn_Festival Portrait painted by Hubert Vos

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards What it takes to remove Forever Chemical Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals," have garnered significant attention due to their persistence in the environment and potential health implications. In 2024, 3M reached a settlement agreement to pay up to $10.3 billion over 13 years to assist U.S. public water suppliers in addressing PFAS contamination in drinking water . PFAS are synthetic chemicals utilized since the 1940s for their resistance to heat, water, and oil. They are commonly found in products such as non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, water-repellent coatings, and firefighting foams. Exposure to certain PFAS has been associated with health issues, including kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, low birth weights, immune system dysfunction, and developmental effects in infants and children. Soil Contamination and Remediation If you suspect that your soil is contaminated with PFAS, especially following events like a house fire or firefighting activities, it is crucial to consult environmental professionals or local environmental protection agencies for proper assessment. Remediation of PFAS-contaminated soil is complex, often costly, and should only be conducted by trained specialists. Current remediation methods include: Sorption and Stabilization: This involves adding materials, such as activated carbon, to the soil to immobilize PFAS, reducing their mobility and potential groundwater contamination. Soil Washing: A process that separates contaminants from soil particles, allowing for the removal of PFAS. Thermal Treatment: Heating soil to high temperatures to break down PFAS compounds. Excavation and Disposal: Removing contaminated soil and transporting it to specialized disposal facilities. It's important to note that these methods are still under evaluation for long-term effectiveness, and their applicability can vary based on site-specific conditions. Therefore, attempting any remediation without professional guidance is strongly discouraged. Gardening Considerations For individuals interested in gardening on potentially contaminated soil, simply adding a layer of clean soil may not be sufficient, as PFAS can leach into groundwater and be taken up by plants. To minimize exposure: Use Raised Beds or Containers: Planting in raised beds with clean, imported soil or using containers can reduce the risk of plant uptake of PFAS. Avoid Using Contaminated Water Sources: Refrain from using well water that may be contaminated with PFAS for irrigation purposes. Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with qualified environmental professionals and adhere to local regulations when addressing potential PFAS contamination. Sources: 3M Settlement with Public Water Suppliers PFAS Soil Remediation Technologies PFAS Remediation Technologies for Soil and Water Treatment Technologies and Methods for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Absorbing PFAS Pollution

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Preventing Bird Collision 1000 migrating birds killed by colliding into the windows of Mccormick Center in Chicago in October 2023. (Image owned by Chicago Field Museum) In the past, I've shared about migrating birds colliding with windows of high-rises in urban areas. Even though we do not live in these tall buildings, we also experienced three casualties. These 3 incidents occurred in a short period during their migration season. After doing some research, we found a simple and effective solution that has worked for us over the past two years, and I wanted to share it with you all. Solution: Vertical Lines Using a white liquid chalk marker (erasable), we drew vertical lines about 4 inches apart on the inside or outside of our windows. Birds are hesitant to fly through vertical gaps, and this simple trick has prevented any further incidents. This is the brand we purchased. But any brand or erasable window markers should work. https://www.amazon.com/.../dp/B0892XMPPJ/ref=sr_1_3_sspa ... Since applying this method, we've had zero bird collisions. If you're facing a similar issue, I highly recommend giving it a try! Draw white lines with an erasable marker. The previous article "Protecting bird-migration from building collisions": The case for lights out in urban skylines" Bird collisions with buildings, known as "bird strikes," occur due to reflections, light pollution, transparent surfaces, habitat loss in urban areas, attractants like lights inside buildings, and certain architectural designs such as large mirror exteriors. These collisions are most common during bird migration seasons, posing a threat to bird populations. Efforts like Lights Out programs aim to reduce these risks and protect birds by encouraging building owners to turn off decorative lights during migration periods. Recently, a news reported that almost 1,000 migrating birds met a tragic end as they collided with the glass-covered McCormick Place Lakeside Center, a convention center in downtown Chicago in A SINGLE NIGHT!! (Refer to the attached photo: The Chicago Field Museum inspects the bodies of migrating birds that were killed when they flew into the windows of the McCormick Place Lakeside Center.) The bird collisions are common. At the height of the fall bird migration season in North America, approximately 4 billion birds will traverse urban environments on their journey south to winter habitats. Unfortunately, millions of these birds will never reach their intended destinations, falling victim to fatal collisions with buildings. These collisions pose an additional threat to bird populations already stressed by habitat loss, predation, and other factors. The good news is that studies suggest dimming and turning off lights at night significantly reduces bird collisions. "Lights Out" campaigns have proven successful in various cities worldwide, and individuals can contribute by following bird migration forecasts, supporting local policies, and backing birding groups working on large-scale solutions. Recent legal initiatives, like the Migratory Local Wildlife Protection Act, mandate bird-friendly glass for new buildings and renovations. To prevent bird collisions, high-rise buildings can adopt Lights Out practices, which involve turning off decorative lighting on upper floors after 11 p.m. and keeping them off until dawn. This strategy is especially crucial during bird migration seasons, from March 15 to June 15 for spring migration and from August 15 to November 15 for fall migration. Residents of upper floors are encouraged to participate, and the guidelines apply to buildings with 40 or more stories and isolated buildings with 20 or more stories. Additionally, shorter buildings with extensive glass exteriors can aid bird safety by extinguishing exterior and interior lighting or drawing blinds during the same migration periods. For buildings featuring illuminated atria, reducing atrium lighting in the early morning hours can also help. Research recommends turning off lights (or drawing blinds) in all perimeter office and residential spaces on all floors from 4 a.m. until full daylight during Lights Out migration periods to minimize bird-window collisions as birds descend after their migratory journey. Sources: https://www.birdmonitors.net/Products.php https://sacajaweaaudubon.org/bird-safe-windows/ https://www.npr.org/.../nearly-1-000-migrating-birds-died ... https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0224164 https://birdmapper-flap.hub.arcgis.com/pages/gbcm-guide https://www.smithsonianmag.com/.../turning-off-your.../ ....

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Hydroclimate Whiplash and Wildfire Recent research warns that hydroclimate whiplash—rapid shifts between extreme wet and dry periods—coupled with a drying atmosphere due to climate change, is significantly increasing the risk of wildfires. During wet periods, heavy rainfall encourages the growth of lush vegetation, which, when followed by dry conditions, turns into highly flammable fuel. This cycle of wet-to-dry transitions creates ideal conditions for intense, fast-spreading wildfires. At the same time, a warmer atmosphere is increasing evaporation rates, reducing the land's ability to retain moisture, and further drying out vegetation. This feedback loop—where dry conditions lead to more flammable vegetation, which then fuels larger fires—makes landscapes more vulnerable to both droughts and wildfires. In places like California, this cycle is becoming more frequent, with climate change intensifying the severity of these conditions. To combat this, experts call for adaptation strategies, including better water management, fire prevention efforts, and climate action to curb the rising temperatures driving these dangerous patterns. Without swift action, wildfire risks will continue to grow, threatening both ecosystems and human communities. Sources: https://newsroom.ucla.edu/.../floods-droughts-fires ... https://phys.org/.../2025-01-links-dry-atmosphere-sponge ... www.nature.com Hydroclimate volatility on a warming Earth - Nature Reviews Earth & Environment Rapid transitions between extreme wet and extreme dry conditions — ‘hydroclimate whiplash’ — have marked environmental and societal impacts. This Review outlines observed and projected changes in hydroclimate whiplash, suggesting that subseasonal and interannual volatility will increase markedly with ongoing warming. 1/10/2025

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards What Birds Tell Us About Climate Change Birds have long served as nature’s messengers, offering vital insights into the health of our planet. Today, they are sending an urgent warning: climate change is pushing many species toward the brink of extinction. The increasing frequency of extreme weather, habitat destruction, and shifting ecosystems are dramatically altering bird populations worldwide. Research from organizations like the National Audubon Society, the American Bird Conservancy, and Nature Canada reveals that if global temperatures continue to rise, nearly two-thirds of North American bird species are at risk. Climate Change is Reshaping Bird Habitats and Migration As temperatures rise and weather patterns shift, birds are being forced to adapt. Many species depend on specific environmental conditions, and even slight disruptions can have severe consequences. Audubon’s research shows that warming temperatures are altering bird habitats at an alarming rate. Coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and forest loss threaten nesting and feeding grounds. The American Bird Conservancy (ABC) has observed shifts in migration patterns, with many species traveling earlier or later than usual. This mismatch between migration timing and food availability can significantly impact survival rates. Nature Canada warns that birds like the Snowy Owl and Common Loon, which depend on boreal forests and wetlands, are struggling as these ecosystems change due to global warming. For some birds, adaptation is nearly impossible, leading to sharp population declines. Extreme Weather and Habitat Destruction Are Devastating Bird Populations Climate change is intensifying extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, wildfires, and heatwaves, all of which have catastrophic effects on birds. Stronger storms can destroy entire colonies of seabirds, while rising temperatures force many species to move to higher altitudes or latitudes, where suitable habitats are shrinking. Droughts and wildfires threaten waterfowl, songbirds, and grassland birds by reducing food and nesting areas. Urban expansion and deforestation further shrink habitats, leaving birds with fewer safe places to breed and rest. Without intervention, these challenges will only worsen, accelerating the decline of many vulnerable species. Disrupted Food Chains Threaten Bird Survival Climate change is causing disruptions in the food web, making it harder for birds to find food. Warmer temperatures are reducing insect populations , which many birds rely on for sustenance. Swallows, flycatchers, and other insectivores are particularly affected. Ocean warming and acidification are depleting fish stocks , impacting seabirds such as puffins and pelicans. Changes in plant blooming cycles are affecting nectar availability, putting hummingbirds and pollinators at risk. These shifts make it harder for birds to reproduce and survive, leading to declining populations. Can Birds Adapt? Some Will—Many Won’t While certain birds can adjust to changing conditions, many specialized species face a grim future. Generalist species , like pigeons and crows, have shown resilience in urban environments. Specialist birds , such as the Piping Plover and Kirtland’s Warbler, struggle due to their dependence on specific habitats and food sources. The ability to adapt depends on factors like genetic diversity, habitat availability, and the speed of environmental change. Unfortunately, for many birds, the pace of climate change is simply too rapid to allow for successful adaptation. What Can Be Done? Conservation and Climate Action Despite the grim outlook, conservation efforts can still make a difference. Organizations like Audubon, ABC, and Nature Canada emphasize the need for immediate action, including: Reducing carbon emissions to slow global warming and protect critical bird habitats. Preserving and restoring natural areas such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands to provide birds with safe nesting and feeding grounds. Supporting bird-friendly policies , including stronger climate laws and sustainable urban planning. Engaging in citizen science projects , such as bird monitoring programs, to collect valuable data that can inform conservation efforts. Conclusion: Birds Are Sounding the Alarm—Will We Listen? Birds are among the most sensitive indicators of climate change, and their struggles reflect the broader environmental crisis facing our planet. Without immediate action, many species could disappear forever. However, by recognizing the warnings birds are giving us and taking meaningful steps to reduce our environmental impact, we can help protect both their future and our own. The time to act is now—before it’s too late. Resources : naturecanada.ca How climate change is affecting birds - Nature Canada Conclusions Climate change is now affecting bird species’ behaviour, ranges and population dynamics; Some bird species are already experiencing negative impacts; and In the future, climate change will put large numbers of birds at risk of extinction. www.audubon.org What Birds Tell Us About Climate Change's Threats Just in time for COP21, a new international report shows how a warming world harms birds—and what needs to be done to save them. abcbirds.org How Does Climate Change Impact Birds? Bird populations are declining around the world. And while many factors contribute — from habitat loss to pesticides, outdoor cats, and window collisions

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back The Flower-Architect Bees Osmia avosetta, a unique species of solitary bee, builds its nests from flower petals. These bees carefully select colorful petals and carry them in their mandibles to craft delicate, cocoon-like nests in the ground. Once lined with petals, the nests are filled with pollen and nectar for their larvae, then sealed with more petals and mud for protection. Check out these photos!! Sources: https://www.researchgate.net/.../Female-of-Osmia-avosetta ... https://www.designboom.com/.../special-bee-makes.../

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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards GenCast, an AI-driven weather forecasting model DeepMind's recent development of GenCast, an AI-driven weather forecasting model, marks a significant advancement in meteorology. GenCast offers enhanced accuracy and efficiency in predicting weather patterns up to 15 days in advance, outperforming traditional forecasting systems. Enhanced Accuracy and Extended Forecasting GenCast has demonstrated superior performance compared to the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts' (ECMWF) Ensemble Prediction System (ENS). In evaluations, GenCast surpassed ENS in over 97% of forecast targets, achieving a 99.8% accuracy rate for predictions beyond 36 hours. This level of precision is particularly beneficial for anticipating extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and tropical cyclones, providing critical lead time for preparations. Efficiency and Computational Advantages One of GenCast's notable strengths is its rapid forecast generation. Utilizing Google's Cloud TPUs, GenCast produces predictions in approximately eight minutes, significantly faster than the hours required by traditional methods. This efficiency not only accelerates the forecasting process but also reduces computational resource demands. Integration and Future Prospects The ECMWF has recognized GenCast's potential, integrating aspects of its approach into their own AI systems operational since June 2024. While GenCast represents a substantial leap forward, experts advocate for a hybrid approach that combines traditional physics-based models with machine learning techniques to address uncertainties and enhance reliability. Sources: https://deepmind.google/discover/blog/gencast-predicts-weather-and-the-risks-of-extreme-conditions-with-sota-accuracy/

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards The Bald Eagle’s Remarkable Comeback: A Conservation Success Story Bald Eagle Once on the brink of extinction, the bald eagle , the national bird of the United States, has made an extraordinary comeback, thanks to decades of conservation efforts and environmental protection. By the mid-20th century, the bald eagle population had plummeted due to hunting, habitat destruction, and the harmful effects of the pesticide DDT , which weakened their eggshells and caused reproductive failures. At one point, bald eagles were listed as endangered species, with fewer than 500 breeding pairs left in the continental U.S. The turnaround began in 1972, when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned DDT, which was a major factor in the eagle's decline. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (1940) also provided legal protection for the species, making it illegal to harm, hunt, or capture eagles. Additionally, wildlife agencies worked tirelessly to protect bald eagle habitats, especially along rivers and lakes where they nest. Efforts included setting up safe zones, restoring forested areas, and promoting the cleaning of rivers to maintain healthy ecosystems. Thanks to these initiatives, bald eagles began to recover. By the early 2000s, their population had increased significantly, and in 2007, the bald eagle was officially removed from the endangered species list . As of recent estimates, there are now over 300,000 bald eagles in North America, with a stable population continuing to grow each year. The return of the bald eagle has become a symbol of environmental resilience and the power of conservation. These majestic birds can now be found soaring over lakes, rivers, and coastal areas across the U.S., from Alaska to Florida, and their recovery has inspired numerous other conservation efforts for endangered species. Their story proves that with proper protection and a concerted effort, we can reverse the damage done to our natural world and restore balance to ecosystems. Sources: Bald Eagles Thriving in the United States: A Conservation Success Story U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Bald Eagle Recovery National Geographic – Bald Eagle Comeback Audubon – The Bald Eagle's Remarkable Recovery