#Environmental Concerns

[thepastisalreadywritten]

Earth Day History

Earth Day, first observed on 22 April 1970, is considered the beginning of the modern environmental movement.

As a response to increasing environmental concerns, like the oil spill in Santa Barbara in 1969, U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day to raise awareness about how to protect the environment.

Nelson and activist Denis Hayes organized teach-ins on college campuses that included various groups and organizations, drawing inspiration from protest teach-ins of the era.

With this massive mobilization, the U.S. developed key environmental laws and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was created.

Earth Day 2024 Theme

The theme of Earth Day 2024 is “Planet vs. Plastics.”

This is about fighting the big problem of plastic all over the world. Earth Day organization wants to bring people from different places together.

The goal is to make much less plastic, 60% less by 2040.

We want a future without so much plastic. This is not just about having less trash, but it is also about keeping us and the environment healthy.

[fenrislorsrai]

I am all for affordable housing, but had to submit testimony for a project my own street that was a big No.

Not next to the Superfund site. C'mon.

The specific issue being the Superfund site is now closed and contained. There's underground arsenic contamination, but it's stable in the rock. It's there, but safely contained and the state environmental agency is monitoring. Sometimes that's the way these go, contain and stabilize rather than try to dig them up and possibly contaminate a bigger area.

But this project on the lot next to it needs to level the ground to get that many apartments in. Estimate is removing 800-1000 dump trucks worth of rock. That's so much blasting. so much.

If you can figure out how to build without blasting, sure by all means. I'll come back and say 'yes in my front yard'. But right now.... absolutely not. For fucks sakes. Let's just poison every nearby well. its fine.

[jiangshinigami]

concerned environmental groups: Hey this planet isn't gonna be liveable if we don't start to use our resources sustainably and take a large amount of consideration for the environment

new AI companies:

BOIL THAT WATER!!!!!!!!!!

[jeanjauthor]

Responding To: Why White Sage (Smudging) Is a Closed Practise 

...Learn something, folks!

I’ll admit I was a little concerned that this might be an argument for a *specific* indigenous culture, but it’s not.  It’s a very real and well-reasoned argument, based in the legalities of what Indigenous First Nations people suffered throughout North America, and it’s a request that we respect it.

If you’re pagan and you’re trying to claim you can use white sage...don’t.  If you want to be properly respectful to YOUR culture, you will want to use Eurasian incense, not North American herbs that are being endangered by overuse.

If you really want to use “traditional medieval incense” to reconnect with your Eurasian ancestral roots, you need to use frankincense and myrrh.  That stuff was traded all over Europe since before the Roman Empire.

It is not a Christian incense.

It is THE Incense, from the most ancient of days.

(I’m using the singular, but this referrs to both myrrh and frankincense.)

For those who aren’t overly concerned with the religious and/or cultural aspects...don’t use it because of the ecological aspects.  White Sage is being overused by being too “trendy” in cultures it does not belong to, and it is definitely headed toward being extirpated (removed / rendered extinct) in the wild.  We have more than enough species of plants and animals that are being overharvested, and YOU have access to OTHER things to burn that provide cleansing and purification properties in many cultures.

Again, myrrh and frankincense are Ancient European (Eurasian/African) incenses that were used by MANY pagan communities across those three continents.  Even better, there are lots of commercial plantations already established--and which have been established and sustainably maintained for literal thousands of years, from which we can get these two resins.

If you want more a more northern European flair than you think those two incenses can provide, add in EUROPEAN herbs.  If you want to invoke the Oak Father, also known as the Green Man, burn oak shavings.  They have a very pleasant scent, and you can often just pick up some (non-treated!) oak boards, odds-and-ends, from just about any store that sells lumber, and use a rasp or a knife or a chisel (carefully!!) to whittle off tiny little shavings for your brazier.

Hell, if you specifically want something North American, get hickory and shave it into tiny little sawdust scraps!  Or use mesquite!  Birch is endemic across the northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere, and none of these things are being endangered!  (Oak is also worldwide in the Northern Hemisphere, but some of y’all are a bit stubborn in your mindsets.)

Seriously, stop trying to use something that isn’t appropriate for what you’re tryinng to do.  And don’t whine “Well MY tradition” because It. Is. Not. YOUR. Tradition.

Let me use an analogy:

Stealing someone else’s keys off the coffee table to jangle above your baby does not make it an appropriate baby toy for them to play with!  Sure, it’s fun, and it makes noise, and it has lots of textures, but that is still theft.  And yes, you are responsible if your baby hits the unlock button on the car key fob and someone else comes along and steals things out of that car that’s sitting in the driveway.  It is far smarter & wiser too get one of those measuring spoon keychain things from your kitchen for your baby to play with if you’re in your own home.  And if it’s NOT your own home, use your damn fingers, or remember to bring an appropriate toy from your home.  Surely you don’t piss off your friend for damaging their belongings without their permission?

If you still do it, after all of these solids reason to Not Do It...get the hell off my blog and may all the harm you are causing come back to you three-hundred-fold.

And no, you don’t get to rant at me.  I am part Native American, though I do not claim any affiliation, so I will never use White Sage in any religious practice.  On top of that, I am an ordained Wiccan Priestess...and a card-carrying Minister.  Literally, I have the card in my wallet.  And no, that’s not a contradiction.  Stop being a jerk toward cultures that are not yours, stop endangering a plant that you don’t need, and go start using things that are actually appropriate.

[sorryhahaifellasleep]

I think in addition to how fallible ChatGPT is, everyone should see this article on its effects on climate change:

But in case you guys are feeling lazy, I have taken a screenshot and highlighted the part where it talks about the direct impact you as an user are having on the environment by making use of it:

So yeah, at the very very least reduce its use (and I only say "reduce" because I know some workplaces already require workers to use it), and certainly stop it altogether for entertainment purposes.

TL;DR: nooooot good.

[10bmnews]

Deep-sea mining negotiators to meet under Donald Trump shadow - The Times of India

UNITED NATIONS: The International Seabed Authority (ISA) meets next week to continue debating rules for ocean floor mining in international waters, after the United States moved to unilaterally kick-start the controversial industry.The Jamaica-based body, created by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, has been working for over a decade on rules governing mineral extraction on the high…

[unitedstatesrei]

Danbury Courthouse Sale Spurs $2M Downtown Redevelopment

State Transfer Agreement Brings Historic Landmark to City OwnershipAfter months of legislative maneuvering, the State of Connecticut has officially transferred ownership of Danbury's historic courthouse to municipal control. This was achieved through an extensive agreement that sidesteps traditional real estate acquisition costs.The transfer operates under state legislature approval, conveying the courthouse building to city ownership. The city incurs no purchase price beyond minimal land transfer fees.State lawmakers endorsed the agreement, driven by community preservation interests. The building holds significant importance to Fairfield County heritage.Legal documentation aligns with state property disposal statutes and municipal acquisition policies. This ensures proper conveyance of the historic asset. The 1031 Exchange can serve as an example for innovative property swapping agreements that facilitate strategic urban development.The arrangement reflects Connecticut's commitment to local stewardship of culturally significant properties. The courthouse, valued at approximately $2 million, is now in municipal hands. Mayor Roberto Alves has announced that a $5 million Community Investment Fund grant will support the broader downtown revitalization efforts.City ownership carries the explicit intent of historic preservation through adaptive reuse. It enables enhanced access to heritage-related funding streams and preservation grants.This intergovernmental collaboration establishes the foundation for Danbury's downtown redevelopment initiative. It safeguards the architectural integrity of the landmark structure.Community-Focused Redevelopment Plans Transform Former CourthouseDanbury officials have unveiled an ambitious redevelopment strategy for the historic courthouse. The plan transforms it into an all-inclusive community facility catering to multiple public needs.The renovation focuses on adaptive reuse, balancing historical preservation with modern functionality. City planners envision multipurpose rooms for non-profits, workshops, and civic meetings.Dedicated spaces for social service agencies will target vulnerable populations. Community programming areas will host lectures, classes, and cultural events.Officials anticipate significant downtown economic stimulation. This is expected to come through increased foot traffic and enhanced visitor spending.Construction phases will offer temporary employment opportunities. They will also establish long-term operational positions.The project emphasizes ADA compliance and energy-efficient upgrades. These are crucial elements of the renovation plan.Funding strategies involve seeking federal historic preservation grants. Collaborations with local civic organizations are also being pursued.A phased investment approach will support the gradual expansion of services. This ensures fiscal responsibility throughout the redevelopment process.Environmental Assessment Funding Paves Way for Safe RenovationThe renovation of Danbury's courthouse is in full swing. However, an environmental hurdle might affect the project's progress.The city received a $200,000 state grant. This funding is designated for an environmental assessment of the former Fairfield County Courthouse. It's an example of innovative strategies that join traditional practices with current market needs, ensuring the project's success.This grant is part of Connecticut's $18.8 million brownfield remediation initiative. The funds cover 23 properties across 19 municipalities.Project Timeline at RiskBrownfield properties like the courthouse are facing typical environmental issues. Asbestos and lead paint contamination are significant concerns requiring immediate attention.A thorough environmental assessment will map out the extent of the contamination. It will focus on the building and the surrounding soil.The insights from this assessment will guide remediation strategies. These strategies are vital before any renovation can commence.

State Efforts for Urban RenewalThe Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development manages this grant. It's part of the Brownfield Remediation and Development Program.This program aims to aid distressed municipalities like Danbury. In fact, 52% of the funding targets such economically challenged areas.An environmental assessment is a mandatory step. It paves the way for future cleanup and renovation funding. The statewide initiative is expected to attract $218 million in private investment.Economic Revitalization Strategy Anchors Downtown Development InitiativeDanbury is adopting an all-inclusive economic revitalization strategy that anchors downtown redevelopment. This is seen as essential for the city's future growth.The city managed to secure $9 million in state funding. This came through Connecticut's Community Investment Fund 2030 and LOTCIP awards, which aim to overhaul infrastructure across multiple downtown corridors.Phase II of the Downtown Danbury Streetscape Renaissance kicks off in May 2025. This phase will bring critical improvements to Main Street, Boughton Street, and Crosby Street.The initiative focuses on enhancing downtown connectivity through transit-oriented development principles. It plans to replace 70 aging trees while preserving 82 mature ones to maintain urban canopy coverage.Pedestrian safety is a key component of the transformation strategy. Plans include solar-powered parking kiosks, improved crosswalks, and accessibility-compliant sidewalks in high-traffic zones.Meanwhile, zoning reforms initiated in 2023 have eliminated density restrictions. This change allows for the integration of residential and commercial spaces, vital for ongoing economic activity. The transformation of Danbury reflects broader urban revitalization trends seen in similar developments like the Broad Ripple Village project, aiming for long-term growth and neighborhood momentum.AssessmentThe $2 million courthouse acquisition marks a critical inflection point for Danbury's urban core. It positions the city to capitalize on unprecedented redevelopment momentum.Environmental clearance funding eliminates key regulatory barriers that have stalled similar projects across Connecticut municipalities.The strategic transformation of this landmark property signals broader institutional confidence in downtown commercial real estate viability.Market analysts anticipate the courthouse conversion will catalyze additional private investment. This is expected to fundamentally reshape the district's investment terrain within the next 24 months.

[firstoccupier]

Deterrence Through Superior Numbers: Is There Anyone There?

by Cliff Potts, Editor-in-Chief, WPS.News Exposé: Tensions in the West Philippine Sea The West Philippine Sea is a vital waterway for the Philippines. It is full of resources and is crucial for fishing communities. However, tensions have been rising in this region, primarily due to aggressive actions by Chinese vessels. Recent reports highlight various incidents that have raised alarms. In a…

[cynicalclassicist]

More good points to raise!

The closest experience I've ever had to discovering "the vitamin" was buying a 100% wool outfit and wearing it in the winter.

Not only was I not freezing anymore, I was not sweating and overheating either. The horrible sensory nightmare of winter clothes disappeared.

In particular, I bought a pair of wool pants. They were a thrifted pair of fancy dress pants like you would wear at an important office job, and they were easily the most comfortable pair of winter-appropriate pants i'd ever worn. I wore them Every Single Day.

From that point on I realized a lot of my clothes were making me feel bad, and the common thread was polyester. Especially polyester blends.

It's a trap because the polyester clothes are the ones that always feel sooooo silky soft when they are in the store, whereas cotton, linen and wool can feel comparatively rough and scratchy. But when actually wearing them for hours throughout the day, it's the natural fibers that feel more comfortable.

Maybe the secret to sensory comfort is not about the presence of softness, but the absence of overloading sensations. Or maybe the sensory stress and agony is not triggered by texture of the fabric, but by how it breathes and regulates temperature.

Then there's the problem of clothing life span: polyester blends, no matter how soft they seem at first, become rough and scratchy and covered in hard, itchy pills after wearing them 10 or 20 times, whether or not they have been tumble-dried or even washed at all. (I tested it!) Linen and cotton become softer and more comfy the more you wear them, polyester but ESPECIALLY polyester blends become a constant stressor. Polyester blend t-shirts I used to love for their softness now feel bristly and irritating.

So now I'm trying to change my wardrobe to as many natural fibers as possible, and the more natural fiber clothes i have the more I realize that the plastic fibers stress me out. It's so easy to overheat or freeze in them and they're always degrading and becoming less comfortable and it sucks.

[munaeem]

Poland’s Nuclear Revival: Back to the Future, Baltic Style

Hey, imagine this: Poland, a country that’s been chugging along on coal like it’s still the Industrial Revolution, is suddenly betting big on nuclear power. They’re building a shiny new plant on the Baltic coast, aiming to flip the switch within a decade at a cool €45 billion. Yep, you heard that right—45 billion euros, enough to make your eyes water. It’s a wild pivot, like a steampunk novel…

[thelifelongtraveler]

hi everyone! this is a reminder that all of the photos I post on this account are beautiful things I have seen in person. I am an American environmental advocate studying natural resources conservation & education.

Unfortunately, in the past days Donald Trump has been in office, he (amongst other things) has signed the USA out of the Paris Agreement, an international treaty working to mitigate climate change. The USA is now one of only four global countries not in the Paris Agreement, despite us having one of the largest negative impacts on the climate.

At this time, we need to stick together and make our voices heard. Our earth is our home, we need to protect her, her creatures, and her life because we do not get a second chance.

And I don't know about you guys but I personally would like to give my children and grandchildren a chance. I would like my children to not have to ask what a polar bear is, or why we never get snow or why Florida is going underwater.

This is a PSA that if you support Donald Trump's actions and ideas surrounding climate change, the LGBTQ+ community, immigration, and women's rights, you are not welcome on my page.

Thanks for reading 💕

[global-newz]

Concerns Over India's "Hong Kong-Like" Development Project on Great Nicobar Islan

India’s ambitious development project on Great Nicobar Island, proposed to transform the remote region into a "Hong Kong-like" hub, has raised significant concerns among environmentalists and indigenous tribes. This $9 billion initiative, designed to include a transshipment harbor, power plant, airport, and township, aims to strengthen India’s position in global trade. Located near the crucial Strait of Malacca, the project is positioned to boost international commerce and tourism, potentially housing over 650,000 residents by its completion in 30 years. However, the development has sparked fears of ecological destruction and cultural loss for the island’s indigenous communities, especially the Shompen tribe, a nomadic group living in isolation.

Environmentalists warn that the project threatens to devastate the island’s fragile rainforests, home to rare species of flora and fauna, with over 900,000 trees potentially being cleared. The impact on local wildlife, including sea turtles and saltwater crocodiles, is also a major concern. Additionally, experts fear that the project could expose uncontacted tribes like the Shompen to diseases, jeopardizing their survival. Despite government assurances of environmental safeguards, many remain unconvinced, worrying that the development could irreparably alter the region’s delicate balance between nature and its indigenous cultures.

The development also evokes memories of the 2004 tsunami disaster, which displaced the Nicobarese tribe, and concerns that the project may push the island's tribes to the brink of extinction. As India moves forward with the plan, the tension between progress and preservation grows, with the future of both the environment and the island’s indigenous populations hanging in the balance.

[anidala-for-ever]

I second this. It's outrageous that people say "oh we should be more careful about where our food is coming from" but completely discount the people working to bring us this food

the fact that "eco" and "ethical" are two separate concerns in the global north, and that "eco" is a much more popular concern, with many "eco" products being made in actual sweatshops, is a big part of why i am The Joker

[onlibicky]

[townpostin]

Durga Puja Central Committee Holds Preparatory Meeting in Jamshedpur

Committee reviews last year’s festival, discusses plans for upcoming celebrations Jamshedpur Durga Puja Central Committee conducts executive meeting to plan for this year’s festivities. JAMSHEDPUR – The Jamshedpur Durga Puja Central Committee held its executive meeting at Misty Inn Hotel under the chairmanship of President Achintam Gupta. Secretary General Ashutosh Singh directed auditor Pradeep…

[zsoltzsemba]

Make Bali Great Again?

Make Bali Great Again? https://wp.me/p84YjG-3S2 #bali #urbanplanning #baliinfrastructure #indonesia #zsoltzsemba #balinese #planning #sustainability

We All Know This, But… Let’s get to the point here, greed, power, and money are leading the charge in the rapid expansion of Bali. Lack of planning, infrastructure, and simple-mindedness are wreaking havoc in Bali. Add to that the allowed craziness that happened and we have a recipe for disaster on the Island of The Gods. Urban Planning and Environmental Concerns: Bali’s rapid development to…