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  • Buy Nothing | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Buy Nothing What is Buy Nothing Project? The Buy Nothing Project is the world's biggest gift economy, being used in communities around the world, allowing neighbors to share freely with one another. Some of you may have been already familiar with or have enrolled in one of Buy Nothing communities. It is a wildly popular social-network communities for "gift economy." What is "gift economy" you may ask. Essentially, every item you get on Buy Nothing communities is for free. All gift exchanges on the community require no money, no barter, no string attached. How is that possible? People from your neighborhood posts items which they no longer need. Items vary except a few exception such as live animals or illegal items. It could be a bed, concert tickets, baby clothes, furnitures, and so on. All these would be posted on the community site on Facebook If you are interested, you leave a comment. Often, it is up to the lister to decide who he/she decides to give the item to. But the most popular method is first come first served Once in a while, listers chooses to have ruffles. Anyway, everything is for free. Then you may ask, how can I join in a group. Well, this is how it goes. How to join your local Buy Nothing Community Step 1 - You need to have a Facebook account as it is where communities are formed. Step 2 - In the Facebook search engine, you enter your neighborhood's name and the key word, Buy Nothing. For instance, if you live in South Loop neighborhood of Chicago, you search "South Loop Buy Nothing." Step 3 - Other option is that you can get an invitation from someone who has been a member already. Step 4 - Then, you need to sign on the agreement on the community rules. Step 5 - Admins will decide if they accept you. Sometimes, the community can be quite large and it takes time to approve new members. Step 6 - Once you get approved, you are ready to list your unwanted items or ask for the items. Sample Listing on Facebook Start your own Community If there is no Buy Nothing community, you can form your own. This is the website which shows you how to form your own community group. https://buynothingproject.org/ ←Previous Next→

  • Sashiko - Japanese embroidery | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Sashiko - Japanese embroidery The Artful Embroidery Technique for Function, Aesthetics, and Quality Preservation" What is Sashiko? Sashiko ( 刺し子) is a form of an embroidery technique that was developed to prolong the lifespan, improve heat insulation and enhance the durability of fabrics and garments.  In 1724, the enactment of the "Farmers’ expenditure regulation" (農家倹約分限令) marked a significant change. Commoners were prohibited from wearing cotton fabric and had to turn to indigo-dyed hemp linen as an alternative, even though it provided limited warmth during winter's harsh conditions. In these challenging times, the basic running stitch flourished and developed into the Sashiko technique that we recognize today. Hemp textiles, while relatively strong and water-resistant, were not the most comfortable option for labor-intensive tasks like farming. Additionally, hemp is a cooler material and doesn't provide much warmth. To address these issues, artisans enhanced the fabric's durability by indigo-dyeing it and employing a layering technique, sewing the fabric with intricate stitching. This layering and stitching improved both durability and insulation. Strengthening the fabric with indigo also served the purpose of a shield from snake attacks during farming. Another example would be the firefighters’ jackets. Highly intricate Sashiko stitching was used on cotton fabrics in order to maximize water absorption. Firefighters doused themselves with water while wearing the jacket and rushed to the scene. Many of the firefighters’ jackets are reversible; colorful linings were used for celebratory occasions after firefighting. The geometric patterns of sashiko hold various prayers, such as "Asano-ha" (hemp leaves) representing the healthy growth of children from the straight growth of stems, "Seigaiha" depicting the waves of the bountiful sea, and "Shippo" symbolizing richness and harmony, all expressing different wishes and blessings. The most renowned regional Sashiko styles 1. Tsugaru Kogin Sashiko (津軽こぎん刺し): From the Tsugaru region (around Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture) This style features geometric patterns stitched with thick, colorful threads on coarse cotton fabric. Young girls learned stitching from a young age, preparing Sashiko kimono for themselves and their future husbands. The most popular stitching technique in the region is done by picking up an odd number of stitches (1-3-5) along the warp threads. 2. Nanbu Hishi Sashiko (南部菱刺し): From the Nanbu region (around Hachinohe and Towada, Aomori Prefecture) The historical background is similar to Tsugaru Kogin Sashiko. However, while Tsugaru and Nanbu are neighboring regions, their approaches didn't necessarily align. They independently developed based on their circumstances and purposes. Stitches are picked up along even-numbered warp threads (2-4-6) to create a diamond pattern. 3. Shonai Sashiko (庄内刺し子 ): From the Shonai region (around Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture) This style is known for its intricate and delicate patterns. It often features floral motifs and requires meticulous stitching. A distinctive feature is that the stitching pattern isn't calculated. The diagonal reinforcement fabric, resembling a shoulder strap, adds strength for sled pulling. ←Previous Next→

  • Kintsugi | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Kintsugi Kintsugi: repairing broken ceramic with gold Look at these gorgeous potteries!! Can you believe these are repaired bowls once broken into pieces? Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery, involves using lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. It is aptly translated as "golden joinery" or "to join with gold." The philosophy behind kintsugi is to treat breakage and repair as part of the history of an object, rather than something to disguise or dispose of. The idea is that by embracing flaws and imperfections and giving them a new life, you can create an even stronger, more beautiful piece of art. Traditionally, kintsugi uses urushi lacquer and rice flour to bind the ceramics together. However, nowadays, it become more popular to utilize more readily available materials such as clear epoxy resin or other ceramic adhesives to reduce costs and time and increase durability. In fact, I actually found a Kintsugi repair set with epoxy on Amazon. However, I cannot guarantee if that was authentic Kintsugi while it appears to offer a similar finish or appearance. Urushi is an indigenous lacquer plant that grows in Japan and is highly toxic while it is not cured. I also thought you ought to know their maintenance as they require gentle handling. But no need to worry, the cautionary is not more than a fine set of porcelains or glasses would require. Maintenance: - For the traditional kintsugi with lacquer, it is recommended to let it be cured for several months after the repair is complete before gradually resuming use. Epoxy has a much faster healing time. - Do not microwave kintsugi-treated potteries or glasses - Avoid Dishwashers and Drying Machines - Avoid Stacking Dishes - Avoid long storage in cold. When storing food in kintsugi pottery in the refrigerator, differences in drying rates between the joined sections may occur. This discrepancy could lead to cracks. While short-term storage is generally acceptable, avoid extended periods in the refrigerator. - To prevent the metal powder on the repaired areas from detaching, wash the pottery gently. While using mild detergent is acceptable, avoid using abrasive cleaners, scrub brushes, or any harsh materials that could damage the pottery. After washing, pat dry with a soft cloth and let it air dry thoroughly. - Avoid Direct Sunlight. Lacquer is sensitive to UV rays and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. - Avoid prolonged water immersion as it may cause delamination between the original pottery and repaired sections. When used for meals, rinse and wipe promptly with kitchen paper before it dries. ←Previous Next→

  • Wounded US Army veterans are finding healing by restoring threatened coral reefs off Florida's coast. | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Wounded US Army veterans are finding healing by restoring threatened coral reefs off Florida's coast. Teaming up with the Mote Marine Laboratory and Combat Wounded Veteran Challenge (CWVC) non-profit, these veterans work annually to save coral endangered by disease and rising sea temperatures while aiding their own physical and emotional recovery. The collaboration allows researchers to study the veterans in challenging environments, advancing treatments for conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder. Through activities like coral planting, the veterans contribute to marine ecosystem preservation and discover purpose in their journey, showcasing how environmental restoration can have positive effects on both nature and human well-being. The initiative aims to create resilient colonies capable of reproducing naturally, providing a sustainable solution for coral reef conservation. ←Previous Next→

  • Himalayan Gold | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Himalayan Gold Here is a riddle for you. What goes from being an insect in the winter to becoming a plant in the summer, and is deemed more precious than gold? Here is the answer, it is Ophiocordyceps Sinensis (O. Sinensis), formerly known as Cordyceps Sinensis and generally called Cordyceps. In Chinese, it is called 冬蟲夏草 (dōng chóng xià cǎo) literally translates as "Winter Worm, Summer Grass" It is also known as "Himalayan gold" or "Himalayan elixir.” O. Sinensis is a parasitic fungus and primarily infects the larvae of certain insects, particularly caterpillars of Thitarodes (ghost moths). The fungus infects the host insect, takes over its body, and eventually grows out of the host's body as a long, slender stalk. Why would this cost more than gold? O. Sinensis is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine, it is currently traded at a staggering price of USD $20,000 - $40,000 per kilo in the market. It has been used for centuries to address a variety of health concerns, such as boosting energy, enhancing stamina, improving respiratory function, and promoting overall vitality. It is often believed to have adaptogenic properties, meaning it may help the body better adapt to stress and maintain balance. In recent years, O. Sinensis has gained attention in the realm of modern herbal and alternative medicine, and it is available in various forms including supplements, powders, and teas. However, scientific research on its effectiveness and safety is still ongoing, and its use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The Himalayan plateau is the habitat where O. Sinensis thrives, a world of thin air and secluded spaces. Here, the growth of this enigmatic organism demands time—a period spanning over ten days, as it inches ever so slowly toward maturity. In the shadows of this high-altitude haven, the fungus encounters its host, using it as a launching pad for its own life cycle. The fungus invades the caterpillar's body, gradually taking over its tissues, and ultimately, its life. Yet, there's an astonishing twist. As the caterpillar's body succumbs to the invader, it provides the nutrients that O. Sinensis needs to flourish. This fatal symbiosis transforms the caterpillar's remains into fertile ground, giving birth to the distinctive fruiting body. In the right climatic conditions, this metamorphosis culminates in the emergence of the sought-after fruiting body for traditional Chinese medicine which also gaining huge popularity in Western culture. And so, the journey of O. Sinensis continues from the heights of its natural habitat to the bustling markets of the world. Here, the fungus takes on a new role, as it transitions from the wild to the realm of commerce. Revered for its potential health benefits, it's harvested, packaged, and transported to market stalls, where it's sold as a valuable ingredient in traditional medicines, elixirs, and tonics. But this transformation comes with a cost. As demand grows, so does the challenge of sustainability. The very ecosystems that cradle O. Sinensis are vulnerable to over-harvesting, and its rarity only adds to its allure. The collection of O. Sinensis has evolved into a means of sustenance and livelihood for indigenous communities, yet unwittingly, consumers around the world are exploiting this reliance, thereby impacting the overall population and habitat of the species. ←Previous Next→

  • Pesticides and Mental Health | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Pesticides and Mental Health A systematic review explores the potential link between chronic pesticide exposure in farmers and mental health issues In a study conducted by epidemiologist Freya Kamel and her team, it was found that out of the 19,000 individuals examined, those who had utilized both two categories of pesticides and seven specific pesticides had a higher likelihood of receiving a depression diagnosis. Out of the seven specific pesticides associated with depression diagnoses in Kamel's study, only aluminum phosphide, diazinon, and malathion remain registered and actively used, according to a statement from Cathy Milbourn, a spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has revoked the registrations of ethylene dibromide, 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T), dieldrin, and parathion. Currently, aluminum phosphide, diazinon, and malathion are undergoing a review process by the EPA. In particular, individuals who had used organochlorine insecticides were found to have a risk of being diagnosed with depression that was up to 90 percent higher compared to those who had not used these insecticides. The use of some organochlorine insecticide chemicals has been banned in the U.S. but not all of them. Additionally, for fumigants (pesticides that, when applied to soil, form a gas to control pests that live in the soil), the increased risk of depression was as high as 80 percent in comparison to individuals who had not been exposed to them. Despite differences in the time and location of the studies, similar reports have been documented. The researchers observed comparable outcomes when they reevaluated the same cohort documented between 1993 and 1997. Among farmers with the greatest cumulative days of pesticide exposure over their lifetimes, there was a 50 percent elevated likelihood of receiving a depression diagnosis at a later time. In a separate study conducted in France, farmers who used herbicides were almost twice as likely to receive treatment for depression compared to non-users. This risk appeared to be escalated when herbicide applicators had been engaged in such activities for over 19 years, involving a study of 567 farmers. These findings may imply that chronic exposure to low pesticide levels over time might elevate the risk of depression. Additionally, the potential link between pesticide poisoning (significant exposure in a short timeframe) and depression has also been studied. The farmers in Colorado, who experienced pesticide poisoning, had twice the risk of developing depression over the subsequent three years. Furthermore, within the pesticide applicators from North Carolina and Iowa, those who had been affected by pesticide poisoning were 2.5 times more likely to receive a diagnosis of depression at a later point in time. While these studies are based on statistics and don't establish a direct link between pesticides and depression, animal experiments suggest that such a connection is plausible. According to Cheryl Beseler, an environmental health researcher at Colorado State University, pesticides have been shown in rat tests to alter brain cells, neurotransmitters, and the production of protective acids. Kamel emphasized that there's little doubt that pesticides can influence brain functions. Experiments have shown that pesticides damage rats' brain tissue and receptors, and they may also have indirect effects by promoting other health issues linked to depression. For instance, Dr. Beate Ritz, a neurologist and professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, discovered that Californians exposed to pesticides are more prone to developing Parkinson's disease, a condition characterized by a dopamine deficiency that can lead to depression. At last, modern agriculture is a complex field with various challenges. It must provide affordable, safe food, ensure farmer and consumer safety, and maximize productivity and profitability. Balancing these factors is extremely complicated due to the need to reduce herbicides and pesticides, adopt sustainable practices, and meet changing consumer preferences. Biotechnology and regulatory frameworks also influence this complex landscape. Researchers and policymakers are actively seeking innovative solutions to address these challenges and maintain a safe and sustainable food supply. In the meanwhile, it is deeply concerning to consider the exposure of hard-working farmers, who work tirelessly to provide food for our tables, to these chemicals that possess the potential to negatively affect their well-being. We must pursue and advocate farming practices that are both safe and sustainable. Also, as end consumers, it is crucial for us to ensure that we thoroughly wash produce before consumption. ←Previous Next→

  • Aspartame (artificial sweetener) and Health | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Aspartame (artificial sweetener) and Health Recently the World Health Organization’s (WHO) cancer research agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), classified the commonly used artificial sweetener aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic to humans”, although another UN committee reaffirmed that there was a safe daily level of consumption. So let’s delve into the current findings on Aspartame to get to get to the bottom. Aspartame, an artificial sweetener, is regulated by the FDA in the United States. It undergoes safety testing and requires FDA approval before it can be used. The FDA sets an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for aspartame, which represents the maximum amount considered safe for daily consumption over a person's lifetime. The FDA has set the ADI for aspartame at 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, while the JECFA and EFSA recommend a slightly lower ADI of 40 mg/kg/day. For example, the daily max consumption for an individual weighing 132 lbs (=60 kg) would be 2400mg to 3000mg per day. It is approximately 8-12 cans of diet soda per day assuming there are 200 to 300 milligrams of aspartame in each can. Aside from individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that affects the breakdown of phenylalanine, aspartame has not been conclusively linked to specific health problems according to studies. Products containing aspartame are required to carry a warning label for individuals with PKU. In 2023, citing “limited evidence” for carcinogenicity in humans, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a statement that Aspartame, an artificial sweetener, has been categorized by the IARC as "possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2b)”, specifically for hepatocellular carcinoma, which is a type of liver cancer. (IARC is the cancer research agency of the WHO). It is crucial to understand that IARC classifications are determined based on the strength of evidence regarding whether a substance can cause cancer in humans, rather than assessing its likelihood to cause cancer. Now, let’s compare the ruling of IARC with those of other health organizations. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA): The JECFA is an international expert committee jointly operated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). One of its primary roles is to evaluate the safety of food additives, considering various health impacts, including cancer. In assessing the risk associated with a specific harm, such as cancer, the JECFA considers factors such as the frequency, amount, and manner in which people are exposed to a particular food additive. After conducting a dietary exposure assessment, the JECFA has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to establish an association between aspartame consumption and cancer in humans. Consequently, based on current dietary exposure estimates, the JECFA has determined that the consumption of aspartame under the limit does not pose a health concern. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety of food ingredients, including artificial sweeteners like aspartame, in the United States. The FDA has expressed that scientific evidence consistently supports the conclusion that aspartame is safe for the general population, as long as it is produced following good manufacturing practices and used within approved aforementioned limits and conditions. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): The EFSA oversees the regulation of food additives within the European Union. Following a comprehensive risk assessment of aspartame conducted in 2013, the EFSA stated that both aspartame and its breakdown products are safe for human consumption at 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, that is the same level with the ADI level of JECFA, and EFSA. So why does the statement from IARC sound more alarming? The difference is that IARC's classification reflects the strength of scientific evidence regarding the potential carcinogenicity of aspartame. Reportedly, IARC sites have limited evidence for carcinogenicity in humans. Also, the IARC hazard evaluation considers all types of exposures (e.g. dietary, and occupational) but is not limited to dietary consumptions. On the other hand, other organizations’ risk assessments listed above are based on the probability of harm occurring under specific conditions and levels of exposure. More research is needed to better understand the potential carcinogenic hazard of aspartame. Dr Francesco Branca, Director of the Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, WHO states, “The assessments of aspartame have indicated that, while safety is not a major concern at the doses which are commonly used, potential effects have been described that need to be investigated by more and better studies.” So let’s keep in mind that scientific understanding and research in this field are continually evolving, and future studies may contribute additional insights. ←Previous Next→

  • NEVER Kill The Tiny Heroes Of Pest Control | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back NEVER Kill The Tiny Heroes Of Pest Control House centipedes(Scutigera) may startle you with their yellowish-gray long body and numerous legs, but they're far from the villains you might think. These anthropods are nature's tiny superheroes for several reasons. Firstly, they're not insects but close relatives of spiders and scorpions. Their up to 15 pairs of long legs are designed for efficient movement. While they can bite when threatened, it's usually more uncomfortable than harmful to humans. Their intricate design, including long legs, segmented bodies, exoskeletons, and compound eyes, serves a purpose. House centipedes move with a mesmerizing ripple effect, allowing them to be agile hunters, excellent at self-defense, and skilled at evading predators. Also, you might think these arthropods grow fast. WRONG! They have a considerably slower development process compared to spiders and other insects, often requiring over 3 years to reach sexual maturity. Impressively, these creatures also boast a longer lifespan, with some individuals living as long as 7 years!!! These superheroes excel at pest control, dining on pests like cockroaches. By doing so, they help maintain nature's balance, keeping troublesome critters at bay. So, next time you see a house centipede, remember it's a beneficial protector. Rather than squishing it, consider leaving it alone or gently relocating it if necessary. If you are scared of them, you can prevent their entry, and seal up cracks and crevices around your home. House centipedes are fascinating creatures that work tirelessly to keep your living space pest-free. They deserve lots of love and respect ←Previous Next→

  • Power of refusing | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Power of refusing The power of saying "NO" made this family a multi-millionaire!! $255K to $37M in 45 years!! The Zammit family's home in Australia is located in The Ponds, a suburb near Quakers Hill, about 40km northwest of Sydney, Australia. The family moved into the home on a 1.99 hectare block in 1978. Allegedly, the estimated value of the property then was AUD $400,000 (USD $255,000). At the time, the area was mostly farmland (see the video below). However, over the years, the area has been developed into a suburb with thousands of new homes. The Zammit family has refused to sell the home despite numerous offers from developers. The Zammit family's home is now the only one left standing in the middle of the development. The home has been currently valued at $50 million AUD (USD $37.5 million). The family has said that they are not interested in selling the home because it is full of memories for them. They also believe that it is important to preserve some of the old character of the area. ←Previous Next→

  • Circular Economy: Recycling & Upcycling Prom Dresses & Suits | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Circular Economy: Recycling & Upcycling Prom Dresses & Suits Circular Economy: Recycling & Upcycling Prom Dresses and Suits Let's recycle prom dress! All the fellow high school students in Chicago, do you need a prom dress or suit but can't afford one? Look no further. These non-profit organizations offer free prom attires. They have designers and great collections. Please share the info because your friend might be able to use one. And to those who live in different states, there are many similar organizations around the country. If you are interested in a similar opportunity, you should google "Prom dress giveaway near me." Good luck! 1) The Gift of Glamour: https://www.facebook.com/thegifto.../https://www.713ceg.org/ 2) 713 Ceg & Prom Girls Rock: www.713ceg.org 713 Community Empowerment Group - Home Home 3) Humble Hearts: humbleheartsfoundation.org Home - Humble Hearts Helping People In Need Connecting resources to those in need by providing living essentials to end impoverishment through community outreach. Donate Our charity works to collect resources such as In-kind goods, hygiene products, food, & other miscellaneous items for the homeless, people in need, families leaving shelter life, & those who suffer from mental health issues.… #ctdp #connectingthedotsproject #recycling #recycle #circularfashion #upcycling #prom #prom2024 #dresses #promdresses #chicago #illinois #giveaway #giveaways #promdressgiveaway ←Previous Next→

  • Mercury Contamination in Marine Life: High-Risk Fish and Health Implications | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Mercury Contamination in Marine Life: High-Risk Fish and Health Implications Mercury Contamination in Marine Life: High-Risk Fish and Health Implications Mercury contamination in marine ecosystems poses significant health risks to both wildlife and humans. Mercury, particularly in its methylmercury form, accumulates in aquatic organisms and biomagnifies up the food chain, leading to higher concentrations in top predators. Mercury Levels in Fish A study analyzing various fish species found that tuna exhibited the highest mercury content among marine fish, with concentrations around 0.270 mg/kg. In contrast, species like hake, pollock, and salmon had significantly lower levels, with salmon showing concentrations as low as 0.017 mg/kg. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Further research indicates that tuna is a dominant source of mercury intake for the U.S. population, accounting for approximately 39% of total mercury consumption from estuarine and marine species. This includes fresh and frozen tuna, as well as canned varieties. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Highly Contaminated Marine Species Large, long-lived predatory fish tend to accumulate higher mercury levels due to their position in the food chain. Species such as tuna and swordfish have been identified with elevated mercury concentrations. nature.com Health Implications and Recommendations The accumulation of mercury in these marine species poses health risks to humans who consume them. Elevated mercury exposure can lead to neurological and cardiovascular problems. Therefore, it is advisable for consumers, especially vulnerable groups like pregnant women and young children, to limit their intake of high-mercury fish and opt for species known to have lower mercury levels. In summary, while seafood is a valuable part of a balanced diet, awareness of mercury levels in different marine species is crucial. Choosing fish with lower mercury concentrations can help mitigate potential health risks associated with mercury exposure. ←Previous Next→

  • Apps for Not Wasting Food | Ctdp

    Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Apps for Not Wasting Food Imperfect Foods This merchant sells imperfect fruits or vegetables which would be otherwise wasted or tossed because of imperfection. It comes in a surprise bag/ box and you only find the content only when you open the package. Olio Sharing surplus or left over is another practical eco-friendly approach. With the Olio app, available on iOS and Android , you can share the food waste in your area. Just upload a pic of food which you want to share. Other app users will get a notification. You can also browse items your neighbors are willing to share, like food, cleaning products or other miscellaneous items. You have to coordinate the pick up arrangement between the offerer and recipient. Too Good To Go "Selling surplus food just got easy" Too Good to Go says. But actually buying surplus food just got easy also. With this app, you can buy leftover food from supermarkets, restaurants and cafes at a fraction of the regular cost. Not only that, we can save tons of food from going to waste, save the operational waste for establishments, and get discounted meals. They are available on iOS and Android . Food Rescue Us This app is transport food to where it is needed through volunteers. Their local volunteers pick-up excess healthy food from local food donors and deliver it directly to local social service agencies that feed the food insecure. FlashFood FlashFood’s founder spoke with hundreds of grocery store employees and executives to learn about their wasteful practices. Most unsold food items that were approaching their best-before dates by up to two weeks were typically thrown away. FlashFood allows users to browse those food items and buy them at a discount, keeping them out of landfills. YourLocal Connect with local restaurants and stores to purchase their surplus foods for up to 70% off. Their local volunteers pick-up excess healthy food from local food donors and deliver it directly to local social service agencies that feed the food insecure. While this app is currently only available in New York City and Denmark, it’s sure to spread throughout the United States soon. ←Previous Next→

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