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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

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards The Environmental and Health Risks of Indoor Gas Stoves The Environmental and Health Risks of Indoor Gas Stoves Gas stoves have long been a staple in many households, favored for their precise heat control and efficiency. However, growing research highlights the environmental and health risks associated with their use, prompting debates over potential regulations and bans. As concerns mount, policymakers, scientists, and consumers alike are reevaluating the role of gas stoves in modern kitchens. The Push for Regulation In late 2022, discussions emerged about a potential nationwide ban on gas stoves due to health concerns. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) suggested regulatory measures, sparking bipartisan debate. On July 13, 2023, the House of Representatives passed legislation preventing the federal government from imposing a ban on gas stoves, though some states and municipalities have moved forward with restrictions. New York State passed a law in 2023 prohibiting gas stoves in most new buildings starting in 2029. Maryland and Colorado are considering similar bans. More than 80 municipalities across the U.S. have either approved or are contemplating gas appliance restrictions. Health Risks Associated with Gas Stoves A growing body of research points to significant health risks linked to gas stove emissions. According to a Stanford study, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels from gas burners and ovens can surpass outdoor air quality standards within minutes. Currently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has no specific regulations for indoor NO₂ exposure. Harvard Health Publishing also reports that children in households with gas stoves are 42% more likely to develop asthma. The pollutants released during gas combustion include: Carbon Monoxide (CO): An odorless, colorless gas that can cause dizziness, nausea, and, at high levels, even death. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂): A respiratory irritant that exacerbates asthma and other lung conditions. Particulate Matter (PM 2.5): Tiny airborne particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs, contributing to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Harmful chemicals such as benzene and formaldehyde, some of which are known carcinogens. Strategies to Mitigate Health Risks For those who continue to use gas stoves, there are several steps to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants: Improve Ventilation: Use an exhaust fan that vents outdoors while cooking. Utilize Air Purifiers: Devices with HEPA filters can help reduce indoor pollution levels. Switch to Electric Alternatives: Induction or electric stoves eliminate combustion-related pollutants. Leverage Incentive Programs: The Inflation Reduction Act offers rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient electric appliances. Use Alternative Cooking Methods: Electric kettles, slow cookers, pressure cookers, and toaster ovens can reduce reliance on gas appliances. Looking Ahead As awareness of gas stove-related health risks grows, more households and policymakers may shift toward electric alternatives. Ongoing discussions at the World Economic Forum and the UN Global Platform will continue to address sustainable and health-conscious kitchen innovations. Whether through improved regulation, better ventilation practices, or a shift to electric cooking, reducing exposure to gas stove emissions will be crucial for public health and environmental sustainability. Sources: https://psr.org/.../health-effects-from-gas-stove ... https://www.npr.org/.../gas-stove-emissions-climate ... https://www.politico.com/.../house-passes-bill-block-gas ... https://www.health.harvard.edu/.../have-a-gas-stove-how ... https://www.whitehouse.gov/.../Inflation-Reduction-Act ...

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