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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Native vs Tropical Milkweeds When I interviewed 7 scientists who specialize in monarch butterflies, they all raised concerns about how Mexican/ Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) can disrupt the migration of endangered monarch butterflies in the northern regions of America and Canada. Tropical milkweed is a perennial plant native to South and Central America but found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is known for its vibrant flowers and is favored by gardeners for attracting monarch butterflies. These seeds and plants are sold on the internet even at home centers and nurseries all over the world. However, those tropical milkweeds which are not native to the colder regions can have negative effects on migratory monarchs. Their extended blooming period can disrupt monarch migration and breeding patterns since the senescence of native milkweeds likely is one of the cues for the fall and time for migrations. Additionally, tropical milkweeds have other potential negative effects including parasites, and diseases for these monarchs. As the practice of plating milkweeds is getting popular, we wanted to check public knowledge of tropical milkweeds. Therefore, we asked 103 participants to visually identify the pictures of local and tropical milkweeds. With the pictures of flowers, nearly 40 percent of people wrongly identified the tropical milkweed. Without saying the identification of seeds and pods is extremely difficult. Nearly 70% of participants could not tell the differences. The majority of the native milkweed flowers are powder pink, greenish cream white, or off-white and relatively easy to identify. However, one of the native milkweeds of North America called the Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) and Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) resemble each other and both have bright orange flowers. Here is how to identify Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) from native Butterfly Milkweed: Color of flowers: The flowers of most popular tropical milkweeds are usually two colors; RED AND ORANGE (with an orange corona and red corolla). Also, the flowers of another popular tropical milkweed, Silky Gold, are yellow. On the other hand, the native butterfly milkweed has just orange flowers. Sap: When the leaves or stem of tropical milkweeds are broken, it releases a milky sap. Leaves: The plant has narrow and pointed leaves. While it prefers moist soils and thrives in disturbed areas, it is commonly found in gardens. * if you are about to buy unknown plants on the internet or at a shop, it is best to read the tag, check on the internet, or use a plant identifying app for more accurate verification. Milkweed identification guide: www.monarchparasites.org Milkweed Identification Guide | monarchhealth Use the following photos and key characters to determine if you have any of these common milkweed species at your site.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Stanford Study Identifies Link Between Pesticides and Increased Prostate Cancer Risk Caring after houseplants and keeping pests off them are a constant challenge. In addition to the cosmetic damage, some pests cause diseases or wilting. Thrips and scale bugs are the worst. They appear without invitation and multiply in number so rapidly. This gives us even greater respect for farmers who must protect vast acres of crops from both pests and unpredictable weather. A while back, a study indicated a correlation between farmers' suicide rates and pesticide exposure. Now, a new study led by Stanford University researchers has identified a concerning association between certain pesticides and an increased risk of prostate cancer in men. The study highlights 22 pesticides linked to higher cancer incidence and mortality, with particular concern over three herbicides and one insecticide that are still widely used in agriculture and pest control. Pesticides and Prostate Cancer Risk Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, and environmental exposures are increasingly recognized as potential contributing factors. The Stanford study, which analyzed extensive health and agricultural data, found that men with higher exposure to specific pesticides faced an elevated risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer. Among the 22 pesticides studied, researchers identified three herbicides and one insecticide as having a particularly strong association with increased risk. These chemicals, commonly used for weed and pest management, may influence hormonal activity, DNA integrity, or inflammatory responses—biological mechanisms that have been linked to cancer development. Exposure and Public Health Concerns Many of the pesticides identified remain in active use on food crops and in public areas, raising concerns about chronic exposure through diet, water, and environmental contamination. While regulatory agencies assess pesticide safety, some of these chemicals have remained approved despite past scrutiny. The study’s findings build upon prior research linking pesticides to hormone-related cancers and other health concerns. Public health experts emphasize the need for further studies, improved safety regulations, and alternative pest control methods to mitigate potential risks. What Comes Next? Researchers stress that further investigation is necessary to understand how different levels and durations of pesticide exposure influence prostate cancer risk. In the meantime, they recommend heightened awareness and protective measures for those with high exposure, such as agricultural workers. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence highlighting environmental factors in cancer risk and underscores the importance of evaluating the long-term health impacts of commonly used pesticides. Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8559082/ https://www.technologynetworks.com/.../pesticides ... https://www.drugs.com/.../certain-pesticides-tied ... https://medicalxpress.com/.../2024-11-reveals-links ...

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Rapid Evolution: The Impact of Ivory Poaching on Tuskless Elephant Population Rapid Evolution: The Impact of Ivory Poaching on Tuskless Elephant Population The trade for elephant tusks had long been lucrative, reaching staggering prices of $2100 per kg in foreign markets at the peak trading. These tusks, deeply embedded in elephants' skulls, often led to excruciating deaths for the animals. The Mozambican Civil War, spanning from 1977 to 1992, witnessed a dramatic escalation in elephant poaching driven by the need to fund the war. The consequences were devastating for the elephant population, which faced near extinction. Before the conflict, approximately 2000 elephants roamed the Gorongosa region. However, the intensity of poaching during the war resulted in a catastrophic loss, with around 90% of the elephant population wiped out. A recent study has unveiled significant evolution among elephants in Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park, where rampant ivory poaching during the civil war has led to a notable increase in the number of tuskless female elephants. Their findings, published in the journal Science, revealed that the pressure of ivory poaching favored tuskless elephants, particularly females, resulting in a genetic shift within the population. The percentage of tuskless females was 18% in the Gorongosa National Park before the war. The tuskless number jumped up to 50% during the war, and 33% after the conflict ended. The researchers found that the surviving tuskless females passed on this trait to their offspring, resulting in about half of their daughters being tuskless. Additionally, genetic analysis revealed that a dominant gene on the X chromosome likely determines tusklessness in female elephants and may lead to the early death of male embryos. Furthermore, the tusks are vital for African elephants. They are used for digging soils for water, self-defense, stripping trees, lifting objects, and competing for mating. The absence of tusks can affect their behaviors such as eating and mating. The study underscores the profound influence of human activities. Sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_O6gWnBYkXc https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abe7389

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Direct Composting Direct composting is a simple, natural method of enriching soil by burying organic waste directly into the ground instead of using a traditional compost bin. This process allows food scraps and plant materials to decompose in place, providing nutrients to the soil and improving its structure. How It Works: Dig a Hole or Trench – Choose a spot in your garden and dig a hole (6–12 inches deep). Add Organic Waste – Place food scraps like fruit peels, vegetable trimmings, coffee grounds, and eggshells directly into the hole. Avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods to prevent pests. Cover with Soil – Bury the scraps with soil and let nature do the work. Microorganisms, earthworms, and other decomposers break down the material over time. Wait & Plant – In a few weeks to months, the organic matter will enrich the soil, making it ideal for planting. Benefits of Direct Composting: ✔ Improves Soil Health – Adds nutrients and organic matter directly where plants need it.✔ Reduces Waste – Keeps food scraps out of landfills, lowering methane emissions.✔ Low Maintenance – No need for compost bins, turning, or special equipment.✔ Encourages Microbial Life – Boosts soil biodiversity, which supports plant growth. This method is great for home gardens, particularly in areas where traditional composting isn’t feasible. Let me know if you’d like tips on what to compost directly! 😊

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Jessica the Hippo: The World's Most Unlikely Houseguest In the heart of South Africa, along the banks of the Blyde River, lives an extraordinary hippopotamus named Jessica. Unlike most hippos, known for their territorial and sometimes aggressive nature, Jessica has formed a unique bond with humans, defying all expectations of wild animal behavior. Jessica's story began in 2000, after a devastating flood swept through the Limpopo province. Amid the debris and chaos, Tonie Joubert, a retired game ranger and wildlife enthusiast, discovered a frail, newborn hippo calf on the riverbank. The calf, barely a day old, was weak, dehydrated, and without her mother. African Hippo Realizing the calf wouldn’t survive without intervention, Joubert brought her home. His wife, Shirley, joined him in caring for the orphan, whom they named Jessica . They fed her warm milk from a bottle, massaged her body to simulate a mother’s touch, and kept her warm through the night. As Jessica grew stronger, her bond with the Joubert family deepened. She would wander around the house, nap on the porch, and even watch television with her human caretakers. Her favorite treat? Rooibos tea, sweetened with a little sugar, served in a bottle. Unlike most captive animals, Jessica was never confined. The Jouberts treated her as part of the family while encouraging her natural instincts. Once strong enough, she was released back into the river, but something remarkable happened—Jessica kept coming back. Today, Jessica lives freely in the Blyde River, often mingling with wild hippos. Yet, she regularly returns to visit the Jouberts, lounging on their deck and enjoying her favorite treats. Her gentle nature has amazed wildlife experts. While hippos are responsible for more human deaths in Africa than any other large animal, Jessica remains calm and affectionate. Jessica’s story has captivated the world, featuring in documentaries by BBC Earth , Animal Planet , and National Geographic . Visitors from around the globe travel to South Africa to meet the friendly hippo who defies nature's expectations. Jessica’s story has sparked interest in hippo conservation, reminding people that every animal, no matter how feared, deserves compassion and understanding. Sources: Jessica the Hippo Official Website – https://www.jessicahippo.com BBC Earth Documentary – Jessica the Hippo National Geographic – Unlikely Animal Friendships

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Concerns Around Genetically Engineered Trees While genetically engineered trees offer promising solutions for carbon sequestration and sustainable timber production, several environmental concerns have been raised regarding their widespread use. Potential Environmental Risks Uncontrolled Spread and Genetic Contamination: Genetically engineered (GE) trees may cross-pollinate with wild relatives, leading to the unintended spread of modified genes. This gene flow could disrupt local ecosystems and biodiversity. Impact on Decomposition and Nutrient Cycles: Altering tree genetics can affect wood decomposition rates, potentially disrupting nutrient cycles and soil health. Changes in decomposition could have cascading effects on forest ecosystems. Invasiveness: Enhanced growth traits might make GE trees more competitive, potentially leading to invasiveness and displacement of native species. This could result in reduced biodiversity and altered habitat structures. Case Study: GE Poplars in China In 2002, China approved the commercial planting of GE poplar trees designed to resist pests. Reports indicate that these trees have spread beyond their intended areas, with the Bt gene transferring to native poplar populations. This unintended spread raises concerns about long-term ecological impacts and the challenges of containing GE trees. Conclusion While bioengineered trees present innovative approaches to addressing climate change, it's crucial to thoroughly assess and manage potential environmental risks. Ensuring that these solutions do not inadvertently harm ecosystems requires careful consideration, robust regulatory frameworks, and ongoing research. Souces: https://news.mongabay.com/2023/07/genetically-engineered-trees-stoke-climate-hope-and-environmental-fears/?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://cban.ca/wp-content/uploads/Enviro-Risks-GE-Trees-flyer-2024.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com www.centerforfoodsafety.org Center for Food Safety | Problems with GE Trees | | Problems with GE Trees Unique risks: Trees are more complex organisms than agricultural crops. Aside from having longer lives, most trees have multiple methods of...

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Naica’s Cave of Crystals: A Geological Wonder Naica’s Cave of Crystals: A Geological Wonder In the year 2000, miners working in Naica, Chihuahua, Mexico, made a breathtaking discovery beneath the Earth's surface—the Cave of Crystals ( Cueva de los Cristales ). This underground marvel is home to some of the largest natural crystals ever found, with massive selenite (gypsum) formations measuring over 10 meters (33 feet) in length and weighing several tons. These extraordinary crystals formed over hundreds of thousands of years due to the unique conditions within the cave. The chamber was once filled with mineral-rich, calcium sulfate-saturated water, which remained at a stable, high temperature, allowing the gypsum to slowly crystallize. Scientists estimate that the crystals grew at a rate of about one meter per 1,000 years, meaning some of the largest formations took approximately 500,000 years to reach their current size. However, this stunning geological wonder comes with extreme challenges. The cave's environment is dangerously inhospitable, with temperatures soaring to 50°C (122°F) and relative humidity exceeding 90%. These conditions make human exploration nearly impossible without specialized cooling suits. Without protection, researchers can endure only 10-15 minutes inside before experiencing severe heat stress, as the high humidity prevents sweat from evaporating and cooling the body. Mining operations initially drained the cave, exposing the crystals to dehydration and potential damage. However, in 2017, the mine was flooded again, restoring the original water levels and helping to preserve the formations by preventing them from drying out and cracking. While this means researchers can no longer access the site, it also ensures that the crystals remain intact for future generations. Despite its extreme conditions, the Cave of Crystals remains one of the most extraordinary geological formations on Earth. Scientists continue to study similar gypsum crystal deposits around the world, seeking to understand the processes that created this otherworldly subterranean wonder. photo credit Paolo Petrignani / La Venta archive Javier Trueba/MSF/Science Source Check out the video from Atlas Obscura Please read the article for the details of the photo. It is incredible! https://cen.acs.org/.../Naicas-crystal-cave.../97/i6 Photo Credit: Javier Trueba/MSF/Science Source

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Plastic Pollution in the Himalayas: A Growing Environmental Crisis Plastic pollution is emerging as a serious environmental challenge in the Himalayan region, where its once-pristine landscapes are now increasingly threatened by waste. From the towering peaks to the sacred rivers, plastic debris is infiltrating ecosystems, posing a danger to wildlife, local communities, and the environment at large. Microplastics in Glaciers and Rivers Studies have recently revealed that even the remote glaciers of the Himalayas are not immune to plastic pollution. Microplastics—tiny plastic particles formed from the degradation of larger plastic items—have been discovered in Himalayan glaciers, rivers, and lakes. These particles, which are often invisible to the naked eye, find their way into the water systems and the wider environment. Over time, microplastics pose a significant risk to both the ecosystem and human health, as they can enter the food chain and affect biodiversity in profound ways. Tourism Impact on Plastic Waste Tourism plays a significant role in the accumulation of plastic waste in the Himalayas. The region, home to some of the world's most sought-after trekking and pilgrimage destinations, generates vast amounts of single-use plastics, packaging materials, and personal care products. Unfortunately, the infrastructure to manage and dispose of this waste is often inadequate. Tourists, while contributing to the region's economy, unintentionally exacerbate the plastic pollution crisis by leaving behind waste that is difficult to manage in such remote areas. The accumulation of plastic waste in these tourist hotspots is a growing concern, as it threatens the very beauty and ecological health that attracts visitors in the first place. Waste Management Challenges The Himalayas, particularly in Nepal, India, and Tibet, face significant challenges in waste management. Many areas lack sufficient infrastructure for recycling or proper waste disposal, making it difficult to address plastic waste effectively. One of the major contributors to the problem is multi-layered plastic packaging, which is particularly difficult to recycle. Without the necessary facilities to properly handle and process waste, much of the plastic ends up polluting the environment. Environmental and Health Impacts The environmental impact of plastic pollution in the Himalayas is profound. Wildlife, including rare and endangered species, can mistake plastic waste for food, leading to entanglement, ingestion, and often death. In addition, the presence of microplastics in water sources affects aquatic life, disrupting ecosystems. On top of that, human health is being impacted, as microplastics have been found in human tissues. Studies have shown that people in the region are exposed to plastics through contaminated water, food, and air, which raises concerns about long-term health effects. Cleanup Efforts Despite the growing problem, there are efforts underway to address plastic pollution in the Himalayas. "The Himalayan Cleanup" is one such initiative, where volunteers gather annually to remove waste from popular trekking routes and high-altitude regions. These clean-up efforts not only reduce the waste but also raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic and encourage responsible tourism practices. The audits conducted during these events help gather data on the types of waste and the major contributors to pollution, making it easier to target solutions. Solutions and Steps Forward Addressing plastic pollution in the Himalayas requires a multi-pronged approach. Promoting alternatives to single-use plastics, such as biodegradable materials or reusable products, can help reduce plastic waste generated by tourists and locals alike. Improving waste management infrastructure, including better recycling facilities and waste segregation systems, is crucial in curbing the amount of plastic entering the environment. Furthermore, holding manufacturers accountable through mechanisms like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) could help reduce the amount of plastic waste produced in the first place. Policymakers, environmental organizations, and local communities must work together to create sustainable solutions that protect the Himalayas for future generations. A balance must be struck between tourism, development, and conservation, ensuring that economic growth doesn't come at the expense of the environment. Conclusion The Himalayas are facing a critical challenge with plastic pollution, but through collective action, it is possible to address the issue. Continued efforts, such as cleanup initiatives, better waste management practices, and the promotion of sustainable alternatives, are key steps toward protecting this iconic region. As individuals, communities, and organizations join forces to combat this growing crisis, the hope remains that the Himalayas can be preserved as a haven of natural beauty and biodiversity for generations to come.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Saying goodbye to Ndakasi In 2007, Ndakasi, a 2-month-old gorilla, was rescued in the Congolese bush by rangers from Virunga National Park after her mother was killed by poachers. Despite her traumatic start, Ndakasi's story was one of kindness and love. She met Andre Bauma, a keeper at the park's gorilla nursery, who cared for her from the moment she was rescued. Through a night of severe rain, Bauma hugged her closely to keep her warm and offer comfort. Ndakasi's life was a gift, given her challenging beginning, and she grew up to be happy and healthy. Tragically, she passed away at the age of 14 due to illness in 2012, but her final moments were filled with love in the arms of her keeper, Andre Bauma. While Ndakasi is no longer with us, her memory lives on, and the caregivers at Virunga National Park continue their work to provide hope to orphaned gorillas like her, highlighting the strong bond between park workers and the gorillas they care for. Sources: Photo credit: Virunga National Park https://hasanjasim.online/gorilla-hugs-the-man-who-saved-her-as-a-baby-in-her-final-moments/?fbclid=IwAR3MazrOjYZOccUdV-kvdzCl2AIgxNe6un2XYKNOm6FsSpG5vU0jkosZzTs https://www.gorilladoctors.org/saving-lives/orphan-gorillas/ndakasi/#:~:text=Gorilla%20Doctors%20is%20deeply%20saddened,of%20not%20eating%2C%20and%20diarrhea .

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 LAND < Back Seedballs to combat deforestation in Kanya Seedballs to combat deforestation in Kanya Kenya Kenya faces an incredible deforestation challenge. The loss of habitat threatens wildlife, including giraffes, which are now vulnerable to extinction due to deforestation across Africa. A simple yet powerful solution is gaining momentum in the fight against deforestation: seed balls. These small spheres, comprised of seeds, clay, and organic matter, offer a sustainable approach to reforestation and habitat restoration. Led by organizations like Seedballs Kenya, over 42 million seed balls have been distributed across the country, promoting the planting of native tree species in diverse ecosystems. The tree seeds we utilize are exclusively procured from the Kenya Forestry Seed Center, which maintains an extensive collection of seeds from approximately 220 tree species gathered from over 600 locations across Kenya. In addition, seed balls feature a natural organic coating. This coating incorporates salvaged charcoal dust sourced from urban charcoal vending sites in Nairobi. Combined with soluble and nutritious organic binders, this coating fosters successful germination and protection of seeds. Seed balls are distributed through community workshops, partnerships with NGOs and government agencies, direct sales, school programs, and sometimes aerial seeding. Schools distribute them to children who use the balls with slingshots. These methods aim to engage a wide audience and maximize the impact of reforestation efforts. So far 51 million seeds have been distributed. By empowering communities and fostering environmental stewardship, seed balls are not only restoring degraded landscapes but also strengthening the bond between people and nature. Sources: https://www.seedballskenya.com/seedballs... )%20in%20Kenya . https://www.bbc.com/news/business-44044267

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