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Rajasthan communities flourish with education, revival of traditional water management tactics By Yasmin Prabhudas* Rajasthan, the largest state in India, is home to 69 million people. It also overlaps with 77,000 square miles of the Thar Desert, which means it is hot, semi-arid, and very prone to drought. Water scarcity can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, but thanks to the long-standing work of Dr. Rajendra Singh—through Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS), the NGO he helped create—communities are learning to cope. From Humble Beginnings to “Waterman of India” Rajendra Singh, the “Waterman of India,” at the National Water Convention 2021 in Gwalior, India. ©Rajendra Singh/TBS Singh was born a farmer’s son in Daula, a village in Uttar Pradesh. A trained doctor in Ayurvedic medicine, he worked in government in the 1980s, overseeing adult education. However, Singh longed to offer his knowledge further afield. “In 1984, I decided to follow my hunches and quit my job. I then boarded a bus in Jaipur and traveled to Kishori, a small village in the Alwar District of Rajasthan. It was there that the true adventure of my life began,” he said in a biographical statement for the People’s World Commission on Drought and Flood, which he heads. He began to offer Ayurvedic medicine to the local people and to educate their children, but he soon discovered it was water that they needed. Pooja Bhati, one of Singh’s colleagues at TBS, says: “What is scarcity in itself? It starts with kids not going to school, especially girls because they have to fetch water. If there’s no water, there’s no irrigation. If they don't have water for irrigation and animal grazing, people migrate to cities for jobs. But they don’t have the skills to survive in the cities, so another struggle starts.” “What is scarcity in itself? It starts with kids not going to school, especially girls because they have to fetch water. If there’s no water, there’s no irrigation.” Singh and others came together to form TBS to help victims of a campus fire at the University of Jaipur. He became TBS chairman in 1985 and began to expand its mission. Singh would soon become known as the “Waterman of India.” Gram Swaraj Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of gram swaraj (village self-development), Singh set out to harness the efforts of rural communities to create sustainable sources of water. He began reintroducing traditional rain-harvesting methods, such as johads (pond-like water structures), which had been abandoned due to a government scheme to introduce taps in every household. (Singh has said it’s not a tap that people need in every house. It's the water in the tap that is required. What if you turn on the tap and there’s no water?) River rejuvenation has also been a prominent part of TBS’s work. A johad in Thathawata, Rajasthan, India. ©Photo by LRBurdak/Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) TBS contributes about 70% toward a project, while the community funds the rest. Locals also volunteer to work on the construction. Volunteering gives villagers a sense of ownership, so they continue to look after the structure. “Women’s participation in decision-making is also vital,” adds Bhati. “Dr. Singh always asks women what they want. As a result, there are a lot of changes in their lives—the biggest one was the removal of parda pratha [a custom in which women must segregate and cover themselves in a veil].” [Watch the video Neer Nari Nadi (Water, Women, River)] Impact and Accolades Since its founding, TBS has helped about one million people, including 400,000 women, mainly across Rajasthan, but also in Maharashtra and Karnataka states. It has assisted communities in building 13,800 johads, which has meant 25 billion liters (5.4 billion gallons) of water have been conserved every year, benefiting 1,500 villages. Women typically transport the water and also work in the fields. ©Rajendra Singh/TBS The work has also transformed the local ecology—thirteen rivers have been rejuvenated, forestation has increased by 30%, and 70% of previously barren land can now be cultivated. Water security has also been established for one million families and agricultural productivity has increased by 100%, with income levels doubled. And 75% of girls now attend primary school, compared with 5% previously. Water security has been established for one million families and agricultural productivity has increased by 100%, with income levels doubled. And 75% of girls now attend primary school, compared with 5% previously. Singh has received numerous accolades for his work, including being on The Guardian’s list of “50 people who could save the planet,” being awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for community leadership in 2001, and winning the Stockholm Water Prize in 2015. He also received a lifetime achievement award in 2022 from the Central University of Rajasthan. Recent Projects But how does TBS go about setting up a project? Puneet Bhalla, another TBS representative, explains: “We do a needs assessment of the rural villages where there is water scarcity. Then our field workers start communicating with the gram panchayat (village council) and with local communities. After getting permission from the gram panchayat and the community, we start construction.” “We also have to find out which area is most affected by floods when there is rainfall,” Bhalla adds. “So we construct the rainwater structure in the form of a johad in that area.” Two areas in eastern Rajasthan have benefited. In Karauli, 393 johads have been constructed (watch a video of TBS’s work in Karauli). Water is scarce because of the rocky terrain, high levels of deforestation, low levels of groundwater, and porous soil that lacks the capacity to retain water. Unpredictable monsoon rains also lead to frequent droughts. Traditional water management practices are no longer being used, and modern water-management systems have proven inadequate, making irrigation difficult. These have impacted agricultural productivity and livestock rearing, but with TBS’s help, it is expected that the local rural communities’ fortunes will turn around, resulting in better access to water. They will also obtain the know-how to conserve and manage water. TBS restored the Baindi ki Pokhar (pond) in Karauli, India. ©Rajendra Singh/TBS In the thirty villages in Alwar, not only have 1,607 johads been built, benefiting 200,000 people and conserving 8 billion liters (1.75 billion gallons) of water, but irrigation systems have also been improved, further strengthening farmers' resilience to climate change. Anticipated outcomes include a 30% reduction in the loss of water and a 20% increase in income from agricultural produce per acre. TBS has also helped local people rejuvenate Rajasthan’s Sairni River. It now meets the community’s needs and enables wildlife to thrive. TBS helped increase biodiversity of the Sairni River through rejuvenation efforts. ©Rajendra Singh/TBS Singh’s vision includes encouraging local communities to build their knowledge of water management—some 100,000 people have become “water literate” since TBS began its work. Meanwhile, the Waterman Academy raises water conservation awareness among the next generation through online courses. Harnessing Local Knowledge Three ways of making sure any water conservation project is a success are: 1) get the community involved, 2) make sure women participate, and 3) help initiate a change in people’s behavior. In the words of the Waterman of India: “Let us use the wisdom of local communities and global indigenous knowledge systems to fight the modern global problems of climate change.” He declared: “The environment has been exploited by humans by taking excessive amounts of resources from it. […] I have devoted my entire life to bridging the gap between people’s hearts and minds and the rivers and environment in which they live.” *Yasmin Prabhudas is a freelance journalist working mainly for nonprofit organizations, labor unions, the education sector, and government agencies.

Over One Million Homes Were Lost After Catastrophic Flooding *By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe Architect Yasmeen Lari sits in front of dwellings designed by her foundation. ©Wikimedia/BBC Urdu (CC BY 3.0) Designing safe, sustainable dwellings for those without means or access is beginning to have its day. One determined Pakistani architect is at the forefront of this response. The 'Barefoot Architect' After a storied career as a pioneering Pakistani architect, Yasmeen Lari pivoted away from designing glitzy modern architecture—with its high carbon footprint and other drawbacks—to address the plight of Pakistan’s disaster-plagued poor. Lari has turned her focus to designing environmentally friendly disaster-relief dwellings for a populace that faces periodic earthquakes and flooding. Known today as the “barefoot architect” for the “poorest of the poor,” Lari repurposed her professional career—she calls her former self a “starchitect”—and set up Barefoot Social Architecture (BASA), which, according to Dezeen magazine, works to “uplift impoverished communities without impacting the planet.” Descended from a compassionate, public-minded father who sheltered Muslim refugees at the time of Partition, Lari has long been committed to the preservation of her heritage, having set up the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan in 1980 with her historian husband. With the same determination that led young Lari to study architecture and succeed as the first woman to register as an architect in Pakistan, Lari’s foundation set about preserving historically important architectural treasures, such as those of the once-prosperous Sethi family in Peshawar, among many others. A view of the Sethi Mohalla, preserved by Lari’s Heritage Foundation. ©Wikimedia/Teseum (CC BY-SA 4.0) The foundation’s urgent work to address disaster relief housing for the poor followed later—with a particular concern for women and children whose lives in Pakistan have traditionally revolved around the home. Empowering people to create their own safe, affordable, nature-based housing and communal structures—carrying “the sweat and pride” of the community—eventually became more important to Lari than designing prestigious commercial structures. Since her career pivot, considerable attention has been paid to her work. In 2023, at the age of 82, she was awarded the Royal Gold Medal, considered one of the world’s most prestigious architectural accolades. Sustainability In Service to Women and Children Yasmeen Lari’s designs prioritize using locally sourced, renewable materials and incorporating traditional techniques and vernacular architectural styles. In an interview with BBC Urdu in 2020, she described her design motto as “low-to-no cost, zero carbon, and zero waste.” (See video) Houses built with support from Lari’s foundation (2020). ©BBC Urdu/Wikimedia Her approach is highly regarded by architects, environmentalists, and humanitarian organizations. With many women and children in Pakistan spending much of their lives near the home, designing disaster-resistant homes with natural, nontoxic materials is a necessity. Disaster mortality rates are generally higher for women and children. [See The Earth & I, April, 2021]. The women and children of Sindh Province. ©DFID/Wikimedia Feminist architect Nourhan Bassam, founder of the think-tank GamingX, spoke with The Earth & I about the importance of Lari’s work in addressing this need. “By acknowledging the distinct impact of these disasters on women, we understand that ‘disasters are a feminist issue’,” Bassam said. “Through her foundation, Lari has not only influenced architectural practice but also inspired a broader conversation on intersectionality and cross-cutting topics of sustainability, feminism, and disaster resilience in the field of architecture,” said Bassam. Strong Collaboration Required Providing adequate safe housing for a population as large as Pakistan’s is not easy. “Designing disaster-resistant, affordable housing from local and sustainable materials is a complex process that requires a holistic approach,” Maulik Patel, managing partner at UniquesCadd, an architecture firm focusing on disaster-resilient architecture, told The Earth & I. Various stakeholders need to be involved. “Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and innovative approaches to design and construction,” Patel added. Dezeen reported that from 2012 to 2014, [Lari’s] foundation provided 40,000 new shelters that housed about 300,000 people following severe flooding in Sindh Province. Lari’s track record suggests that her foundation is uniquely qualified to help address the disaster housing challenges of Pakistan’s poorest populations. Dezeen reported that from 2012 to 2014, her foundation provided 40,000 new shelters that housed about 300,000 people following severe flooding in Sindh Province. Addressing Pakistan’s Floods Catastrophic flooding in Pakistan (2022). ©zms/iStock Lari’s foundation was severely tested when heavy rains led to catastrophic floods in Pakistan in 2022. A third of the country was submerged and 33 million people were forced from their homes or otherwise impacted. (See video here). According to UNICEF, half of those affected were children. A total of 1.4 million homes were destroyed in what the World Economic Forum (WEF) described as a “climate-fuelled catastrophe” that claimed at least 1,700 lives. In the aftermath of the devastating floods, Yasmeen Lari and the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan launched a plan to build a million flood-resistant homes throughout the country by 2024. The initiative also aims to ensure that every affected household has essential resources. While Lari’s plan addresses the urgent need to focus on disaster relief, it also emphasizes the need for disaster preparedness—such as safety shelters for communities. Video on shelter assembly. ©2024 Heritage Foundation of Pakistan The shelter project draws heavily on Lari’s expertise and experience working closely with local communities and utilizing indigenous, renewable materials—such as lime, mud, and bamboo—to create durable, yet easily replaceable structures. In a 2023 interview with RIBAJ, Lari said the know-how to complete one of her shelters was already freely available through a YouTube channel that had over 5,000 subscribers at the time. Through the channel, anyone can learn to build one of the foundation’s houses via detailed step-by-step instructions. Lari envisions positioning shelters on elevated roads that normally are not submerged during flooding. These structures can be relocated to permanent foundations for long-term use. Durable, sustainable, personalized—Heritage Foundation shelters. ©2024 Heritage Foundation of Pakistan Lari said it is possible to construct 25 shelters a day wherever the foundation has people “on the ground.” In the RIBAJ interview, Lari said it is possible to construct 25 shelters a day wherever the foundation has people “on the ground” to facilitate skill-sharing among villages. The WEF reported that about 1,000 homes had been completed in heavily stricken Sindh province as of September 2023. In addition to providing basic shelter, Lari also aims to provide water, toilets, and Lari’s “eco-alternative” Pakistan Chulah Cookstoves, which are self-built from local mud and CO2-absorbing lime plaster. Lari-designed chulahs can be self-made from local natural materials. ©2024 Heritage Foundation of Pakistan The stoves, which are fueled by agricultural waste, cut wood use by 50% to 70%, Lari told Dezeen magazine. The result was a healthier cooking environment compared with the traditional Pakistani wood-burning chulah. According to Dezeen, the health benefits of replacing open fires with Lari’s cookstoves include reduced air pollution, skin burns, and likely lowered rates of respiratory or heart diseases. The reduced need for firewood also impacts deforestation rates and time spent searching for firewood. Resting on a solid raised platform, they are also less likely to be swept away during a flood. ©Claude Renault/Wikimedia (CC BY 2.0) ©Muhammad Amjad/iStock Traditional indoor (left) and outdoor (right) wood-burning chulah cookstoves. Progress and Frustration The WEF reported that Lari’s foundation had, as of November 2023, helped 2022 flood victims build approximately 4,500 homes with the goal of doing so for “at least 350,000 households.” According to the WEF report, Lari has been frustrated by the UN’s humanitarian system “and institutions like the World Bank” for handing out aid “without building the capacity of the people,” and for constructing concrete structures in Pakistan following disasters. The WEF report included responses from a World Bank representative and the Sindh People’s Housing Foundation (SPHF), set up by the Sindh government to address the province’s flood disaster housing needs. Mariam Altaf of the World Bank of Pakistan told WEF the bank preferred permanent “brick and mortar” houses, which she said “are more resilient housing options than mud-based ones.” The SPHF told WEF they were aware of Lari’s work, but preferred “burnt brick and cement” structures over mud-based, which they said had been the majority of those washed away during prior flooding. *Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe is a freelance journalist and editor. Over the past 10 years, Natasha has reported for a host of publications, exploring the wider world and industries from environmental, scientific, business, legal, and sociological perspectives. Natasha has also been interviewed as an insight provider for research institutes and conferences. Editorial notes Sources: Interview with Nourhan Bassam, architect, feminist urbanist and founder of GamingX, a think-tank focusing on community development and empowerment. Interview with Maulik Patel, managing partner at UniquesCadd.

By Alina Bradford* ©K. Riemer/Pixabay Modern homes are typically built to keep people cozy or cool inside. But these tightly sealed, insulated dwellings can also trap noxious chemicals, allergens and more. People who live in homes with poor air quality can experience health problems ranging from frequent colds and allergies to life-threatening diseases. On the bright side, most people can easily upgrade the air at home. Here are some tips on getting started. Why People Should Care about Air Quality Poor air quality can lead to many different long and short-term health problems, say groups like the American Lung Association (ALA). These include: Allergies Trouble breathing Migraine headaches Asthma attacks Nausea Vomiting Dermatitis Neurological problems Cancer Liver and kidney damage These symptoms and problems are typically caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air. VOCs are gases emitted from thousands of different types of natural and man-made products, many of which are found in homes. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that indoor concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher—up to ten times higher—than outdoors. Poor Air Quality Culprits There is a multitude of everyday things that contribute to poor air quality at home. Some of the more obvious contributors include pet dander, smoke from burning a meal in the kitchen, and cigarette smoke. However, there’s a wide range of other things that can make indoor air less than healthy. A common contributor to indoor pollution is building materials. New homes or renovations, which use pressed wood products like plywood as well as carpeting, paint, and adhesives, can release formaldehyde and other VOCs, according to the ALA. Even older materials, like some drywall and flooring, can release toxic chemicals into the air. Cross-section of particle board. ©wikipedia Air fresheners and cleaning products are supposed to make homes cleaner and more enjoyable, but they, too, can contribute to poor air quality. Studies show that these products can release toxic VOCs, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes, into the air. Cooking indoors with wood can increase health risks. ©Nuzree/Pixabay The air in kitchens with wood-burning or natural gas stoves can also be toxic. Studies over the past forty years show that natural gas stoves and other gas appliances can release methane and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the air, even when they aren’t in use. Particles released from wood-burning stoves can cause bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma. Indoor cooking with wood can increase health risks. ©Pixabay Measuring Air Quality An easy way to test for poor air quality at home is to use an air quality monitor. The cost of these monitors can range from around $30 to $200, depending on the features. Some of the fancier versions will send an alert via phone when air quality reaches unsafe levels. When shopping, be sure to look for a monitor that measures CO, CO2, VOC, and formaldehyde (HCHO). It’s also important to get one that can detect dust mites and other allergens. Devices that can detect these air quality menaces are labeled as PM 2.5 (for particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in size). How to Keep Air Clean at Home Once people understand what can cause poor air quality and how to track it, they’re ready to make their indoor air safer. Here are some things that can be done right away: Stop using air fresheners or look for products that are “non-toxic.” Use natural cleaning products. Eat more raw foods or steam or bake foods to reduce the smoke caused by frying and searing. Stainless steel (left) and bamboo food steamers. ©Kowloonese/Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) Smoke or vape outside only. Clean with a vacuum with a HEPA filter regularly to rid the home of pet dander and dust. Use HEPA air purifiers throughout the home. Change HVAC, air purifier, and vacuum air filters regularly, and ensure that the filters use HEPA filtration. Open windows on low-pollution days to let out VOCs and let in fresh air. Throw out food before it becomes moldy. Clean home air vents regularly. Modern residential building codes require kitchen ventilation, so use ventilation hoods on stoves whenever cooking. Spider plants are popular indoor plants. ©Peter-coxhead/Wikimedia Some long-term solutions to consider include removing carpeting—if air quality levels remain poor after one’s best efforts—or switching to electric appliances over gas water heaters, ovens, and heaters. There has been a lot of buzz online about the air benefits of houseplants, but don’t get too excited. While houseplants have also been shown to improve indoor air quality, the effects are small, at best. According to the EPA, it would require 680 plants in a house to keep the air clean. Don’t Forget to Take Outdoor Breaks While practicing all of these ways to improve the quality of the air indoors, people shouldn’t forget to simply get outdoors for some fresh air. For those who live in an area with low pollution, the air outside can be up to ten times cleaner than indoor air. Get out and enjoy some fresh air! ©joenomias/Pixabay Also, when at work, take a stroll outside during breaks or eat lunch outside. During the weekends take up an outdoor hobby, take a swing in a hammock, or go for a picnic with the family. Find any excuse to go outside for a more grateful and healthier respiratory system. *Alina Bradford is a safety and security expert that has contributed to CBS, MTV, USA Today, Reader’s Digest, and more. She is currently the editorial lead at SafeWise.com.

By Alina Bradford* Washing produce has many benefits. ©kcvelez/Pickupimage Fresh produce often comes straight out of the ground, so it’s born dirty. Though it looks clean by the time it gets to the store, don’t assume that it is. Even organic produce can be covered in bacteria and other contaminants. Here’s what consumers need to know about the cleanliness of produce and how to make it safer to eat. How Dirty Is Produce? It all depends. Each piece of produce that ends up in a shopping bag took a different journey to the store. Fruits and vegetables are often exposed to rodents; unwashed hands; bugs; airborne germs; and particulates, fertilizer, and more as they travel. Moreover, most produce is exposed to pesticides. The Environmental Working Group's 2022 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce listed strawberries and spinach as the two top produce items that contain the highest levels of pesticide contamination. Next on the list were kale, collard and mustard greens, nectarines, apples, grapes, and varieties of peppers. Try to buy produce locally. Shorter shipping distances mean that contamination is less likely. It’s best to assume that the fresh fruits and vegetables brought home are pretty filthy. Though this may make some people wary of eating store-bought produce, there’s no need to avoid it. Produce can be made safe to eat. How Can Consumers Make Produce Safe? The safest way to ensure that raw food won’t cause an illness is to wash it, and then cook it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The heat from cooking can kill any bacteria that might remain after washing. Also, try to buy produce locally. Shorter shipping distances mean that contamination is less likely. Of course, the safest produce is homegrown, garden-to-table food since consumers know exactly what the fruits and vegetables were exposed to. What Is the Right Way to Wash Produce? Produce should be cleaned as soon as possible so this step won’t be forgotten later. Plus, clean produce won’t contaminate the refrigerator or countertops. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. ©National Cancer Institute First, start with clean hands. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Also, make sure your kitchen surfaces, like your sink and countertops, have been cleaned and sanitized. Once the surfaces are clean, remove the "extra parts" of the produce. Remove the outer leaves from lettuce, the loose, outer skins of onions, and eyes from potatoes, for example. Also, discard berries or leaves that are damaged. Next, scrub the fruits and vegetables under lukewarm running water. Vegetable brushes are nice, but they are not required—the running water and clean hands are fine, according to the Colorado State Extension Office. Conversely, a brush may help get the dirt off of root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and turnips. Do Consumers Need a Special Cleanser for their Produce? Use clean, not soapy, water. ©SabineD52/Pixabay The CDC, US Department of Agriculture, and federal Food and Drug Administration don’t recommend washing produce in anything other than water. That means consumers can skip those fancy veggie washes seen in stores or the well-intentioned homemade cleaning recipes posted on the internet. Fruits and vegetables are porous. They can absorb the washes, and possibly cause a sickness or alter the taste of the food. Besides, these washes haven’t been proven any more effective than water. When the first batch of produce is cleaned, place it into a clean colander while the other items are washed. What About Produce with Inedible Peels? Wash produce with inedible peels. ©7`o’7/Wikimedia Commons Yes, even if the plan is to remove the banana, avocado, melon, orange, grapefruit, or lemon peel, the produce should be washed. Hands or knives touching the peel can contaminate the fruit underneath. Moreover, washing bananas when they first come into the kitchen can banish any fruit-fly eggs that tagged along. Does Organic Produce Need to Be Washed? Even if the produce has never been touched by pesticides, there is a good chance it has been touched by dirty hands, rodents, and bugs. So, give organic produce a good wash, too. How About Pre-washed Packaged Produce? The CDC says that food that’s labeled as washed doesn’t need further cleaning, but many consumers do so anyway. In 2021, eighteen people became sick with listeria after eating Dole pre-packaged salads. There have been other recalls of contaminated pre-packaged produce in the last few years, as well. What Happens if the Produce Isn’t Washed? At the very least, consumers will ingest the waxy preservatives the store uses to keep the produce looking fresh. At the worst, they could consume pesticides or dangerous bacteria. Around 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) get sick, and 3,000 die, from foodborne diseases. While a lot of times foodborne illnesses come from animal products, produce is often contaminated, too. For example, in early 2022, a recall was issued over contaminated baby spinach. Four people needed to be hospitalized after fifteen became ill. E. coli bacteria. ©Geralt/Pixabay Some common food contaminants include Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Norovirus, and Listeria monocytogenes. They can cause diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fever, hallucinations, paralysis, and death. While most people will just suffer what is thought of as a "stomach flu" when exposed to these contaminants, they are particularly dangerous to children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. So, the best bet for healthy eating is to always wash fruits and vegetables. While it doesn’t always get rid of every contaminant, it’s the best line of defense against bacteria and pesticides. *Alina Bradford is a safety and security expert that has contributed to CBS, MTV, USA Today, Reader’s Digest, and more. She is currently the editorial lead at SafeWise.com.

By Robin Whitlock* The Maldives government have adapted infrastructure in capital city Malé to the threats of climate change and rising sea levels, including beginning to build a wall around the city. ©Shahee Ilyas, CC BY-SA 3.0 Rising Sea Levels Sea level rise, as eloquently explained by NASA’s Global Climate Change webpage, is caused by two factors. One of these is the amount of water added to the oceans by melting ice, while the other is the expansion of seawater as it gets warmer. The graph below shows how global sea levels have risen since 1900. According to the US government’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there has been a mean global sea level rise of about eight to nine inches (twenty-one to twenty-four centimeters) since 1880. Regionally, differences in sea level rise happen due to natural variability in the strength of winds and ocean currents that influence where and how much heat is stored in the deeper layers of the ocean. Sea level rise since 1993-present, based on satellite sea level observations. NASA’S Goddard Space Flight Center. This matters because numerous communities—including eight of the ten largest cities in the world—are located near an ocean shoreline, according to the UN Atlas of the Oceans. In the US, almost 30% of the population lives in a densely populated coastal area. Melting Ice Caps and Sea Level Rise The Arctic ice cap covers the North Pole and consists wholly of floating sea ice that is constantly shifting. Some of this ice forms and melts according to the polar seasons, while the remainder persists as ice throughout the year. In the South Pole, only part of the Antarctic ice cap consists of sea ice. It melts completely and reforms on a seasonal basis, thus the seasonal decrease of sea ice is greatest in the Antarctic. The remaining portion of the Antarctic ice cap consists of ice sheets covering land, ice shelves, and glaciers. Leopard seal on an ice floe in Cierva Cove, a quiet bay on the Antarctic Peninsula. ©iStock Of the two ice caps, it is the Arctic that plays the larger role in regulating the climate, according to current thinking. It does so by regulating the exchange of heat, moisture, and salinity in the polar oceans. The thickness of Arctic sea ice and the area it covers can vary significantly and change rapidly. In late winter, sea ice tends to cover an area of fourteen million to sixteen million square kilometers (8.5 million to 9.9 million square miles). In late summer, this falls to around seven million kilometers (4.3 million square miles). In contrast, in Antarctica, the ice is around seventeen million to twenty million square kilometers (10.5 million to 12.4 million square miles) in late winter. By late summer, this shrinks to between two million and four million square kilometers (1.2 million to 2.4 million square miles). According to a 2012 study on passive microwave satellite data, winter Arctic sea ice has decreased by about 3% per decade since 1979. Other evidence—compiled by scientists from satellite data, data from earlier ice charts, and other observations to form a chronological record from 1900 onward—shows that the area covered by sea ice in the Arctic has been declining since at least the early 1950s. The edge of the Greenland ice cap is marked by a glacier’s moraine and a meltwater stream. A Musk Ox grazes in front. ©neill4real A recent article by Chris Mooney of The Washington Post cites a study published August 29 in Nature Climate Change. The study shows that the largest source of potential sea level rise is due to the melting of the Greenland ice sheet, which is one to two miles thick. The rate at which this ice is melting has accelerated since 2000 because temperatures in the Arctic are rising faster than anywhere else in the world. Temperatures in the Arctic are rising faster than anywhere else in the world. This potentially unstoppable melting suggests that the global sea level could rise by nearly 10.8 inches even if humanity stopped producing greenhouse gases instantly. This prediction is also viewed as a low estimate: If there are years in which there is a greater amount of melting, such as in 2012, this could mean a sea level rise of thirty feet. Indeed, many scientists agree that if all the ice on Greenland were to melt, it would cause a sea level rise of twenty feet. “We have caused the ice sheet to go out of equilibrium,” said David Bahr, co-author of the study and a University of Colorado Boulder glaciologist, speaking to USA Today. “We’re melting it faster than the ice can move downstream and replenish areas that are melting.” There’s no indication yet of when this world-changing sea level rise may occur, but scientists suggest that most of it will have occurred by 2100. However, another scientist, Ted Scambos, who did not contribute to the study, argues that a longer time frame is probably more accurate. Impacts Whenever it happens, sea level rise will have “huge societal, economic and environmental impacts” across the world. Low-lying island nations and countries with coastal and delta areas—a common feature in the developing world—will be more adversely affected than nations with higher topographies. Even a small amount of sea level rise can have disastrous effects on wildlife habitats, due to erosion, flooding of wetlands, and salt contamination of aquifers and agricultural land. A road collapsing into the sea due to sea level rise on the Holderness coast, in the northeast of England. ©iStock Moreover, sea level rise is suspected of influencing the behavior of hurricanes and typhoons—pushing storms toward the extreme end of the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind scale, or affecting their speed or rainfall. Fiercer storm surges force people to move to higher ground while threatening basic services for people who remain behind. Mitigation Measures In response to increasing sea level rise, many coastal cities are already planning to implement a range of adaptation measures. These include building higher sea walls, rerouting roads, and other transport corridors, and planting vegetation in threatened areas to stem the incoming sea water. A global network of city mayors, called C40 Cities, has published a guide explaining how cities can respond to sea level rise. The first stage is to understand the local topography and how it affects the community’s vulnerability to sea level rise. This could involve examination of a risk map and production of a climate change risk assessment. Towns and cities can follow this up by collaborating with other settlements in the region—sharing monitoring and alert systems, for example. A regional board can be established to coordinate action in the area. The increased frequency of high-tide flooding is affecting more communities: A high-tide flood spills into the downtown Annapolis harbor, Maryland. ©City of Annapolis Improving coastal flood defenses generally consists of two options, which can be employed in collaboration with each other. One is the reconstruction and strengthening of natural barriers through restoration of habitats and ecosystems, such as coastal wetlands, coral reefs, marshes, and mangroves. The second option is building physical synthetic features, such as sea walls, dikes and levees, and flood barriers. As with other climate change predictions, an extreme sea level rise could become a “new normal.” This makes it all the more important for communities to be forward-thinking and start planning and implementing measures to protect against sea level rise right now. *Robin Whitlock is a freelance journalist based in the Southwest of England, UK. A correspondent for Renewable Energy Magazine since 2011, he specializes in environmental issues, climate change, and renewable energy, and also follows transport issues, particularly rail, bus, and coach, and green motoring.

How Tribology is Aiding the Fight Against Climate Change By Rick Laezman* Mechanic disassembling car engine. ©FabficaCr As pressure mounts to enlist all resources in the fight against global warming, energy efficiency is taking on an expanding role. One particular field of study is taking the concept of efficiency to another level, literally. Efficiency on an Atomic Level Tribology is the study of kinetic properties, or properties related to motion, that have a direct impact on efficiency. Specifically, it examines three related phenomena: friction, wear, and lubrication. The study of these elements of physical resistance often takes place at an atomic or slightly larger nanoscale. The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) defines the specialty in relatively mundane terms. It describes the practice simply as the “study of surfaces moving relative to one another.” A closer look at the three areas of focus provides more detail. Friction is defined as the resistance to motion between two contacting objects or materials. Wear is the loss of mass or material as the result of friction. Finally, lubrication is the use of solutions or solids to help reduce the incidence of friction and wear. The three areas of study encompass various fields. As a result, tribologists draw their expertise from many different specialties, including mechanical engineering, materials science and engineering, chemistry and chemical engineering, and others. Gears in motion highlight the intricate mechanism of tribology. ©Ji Tribology also has relevance to many different industries and devices because friction and wear occur in so many different processes, and the reduction of both is important to all. Manufacturing, healthcare, sports, and music are a few of the many fields where tribology is applied. For example, tribology can improve the performance of automobile tires. Friction is essential to a secure grip between the tire and the road. This aids acceleration and safety. On the other hand, all consumers want to minimize wear so their tires will last longer. Tribology, Energy Efficiency, and Global Warming Speaking of cars, tribology is proving to be extremely valuable to the broad field of energy efficiency. Because so much energy is lost to friction in mechanical components, reducing this waste is one of the most effective ways to cut down on energy use. Reducing the energy intake and carbon output of vehicles, buildings, appliances, and any energy-consuming process becomes just as important in the fight against global warming as the use of renewable fuels like solar and wind power. “[F]inding ways to minimize friction and wear through new technologies in tribology is critical to a greener and more sustainable world.“ As noted by the STLE, “finding ways to minimize friction and wear through new technologies in tribology is critical to a greener and more sustainable world.“ Advances in tribology that improve energy efficiency are mostly occurring in one of three sectors: energy, transportation, and manufacturing. Not coincidentally, these are also some of the biggest energy consumers. In the field of energy and power, tribology can increase efficiency in many ways. There are numerous opportunities to reduce energy loss throughout the industry, from the initial phase of primary resource production through the generation of electricity, distribution of power, and energy consumption. For example, lubricants can increase the efficiency of steam and gas turbines used to generate electricity. Similarly, materials applied to bearings and gearboxes increase the efficiency of wind turbines. Changes to the materials used in the inner workings of cooling and heating systems, as well as other appliances, can improve the energy efficiency of buildings. In the field of transportation, tribology improves the efficiency of all sorts of moving vehicles. It impacts efficiency through improvements to the inner workings of power trains, including gearboxes, engines, transmissions, driveshafts, axles, bearings, and brakes. It also improves traction and reduces the wear of tires and wheels on cars, trucks, and trains. Assembling and constructing a gas turbine. ©industryview These improvements can be achieved in many ways. This includes the development of new lubricants and super small, nano composites that reduce friction and wear of gears and bearings. It even extends to innovative engineering of coatings for turbine blades and road surfaces that help reduce friction. Finally, tribology aids the manufacturing and industrial sectors by increasing the efficiency of machinery and equipment. When tribology methods are applied to transportation and energy production, they can reduce temperatures, increase the lifespan of implements and equipment, improve efficiency, and lower energy consumption in the manufacturing and delivery of products and materials. Tribology in the Real World With all these possibilities, tribologists are hard at work exploring new ways to increase efficiency through the reduction of friction and wear and the innovative use of lubricants. Scholarly articles in peer-reviewed journals describe various research topics where experts are pursuing advances in the field. Some of these advances are pushing the boundaries of imagination. As science fiction writer Arthur C. Clarke described, “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” Tribology may not qualify as magic, but it is taking innovation to levels that the human eye cannot see. Some researchers have achieved superlubricity using different materials, both solid and liquid, including graphite flakes, graphene, polymers, and even water. Take, for example, the concept of superlubricity. This occurs when friction has been nearly eliminated. Much of the work in this field has been theoretical. However, the topic has gained increased attention in recent years. Some researchers have achieved superlubricity using different materials, both solid and liquid, including graphite flakes, graphene, polymers, and even water. Achieving superlubricity in a practical application on a wide scale is still a long way away, but researchers are zeroing in. The benefits could be remarkable. Friction is believed to account for about 30% of the world's total energy consumption. If tribologists could develop methods to achieve superlubricity in practical applications like manufacturing or transportation, the savings would be incredible. Earlier this year, scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) announced they invented a “superlubricity coating” that could dramatically reduce friction in common load-bearing systems with moving parts. The coating reduces the friction of steel rubbing on steel at least a hundredfold. The invention could be a significant breakthrough because it would make superlubricity accessible to a wide variety of common applications, including vehicle drivetrains as well as wind and hydroelectric turbines. According to Jun Qu, leader of ORNL’s Surface Engineering and Tribology group, “the main achievement is making superlubricity feasible for the most common applications.” [The] U.S. economy loses more than $1 trillion (about $3,100 per person in the US) to friction and wear every year. According to ORNL, the novel coating could be a boon to the U.S. economy, which it says loses more than $1 trillion (about $3,100 per person in the US) to friction and wear every year. Another sub-specialty—high-temperature tribology—has attracted increased attention in recent years. When solid surfaces interact in moving situations, like machinery or engine parts, they create intense pressure and heat. This can dramatically impact the surfaces, creating wear and impacting the efficiency of the process. Much of the research in this area has focused on the automobile manufacturing industry. Vehicles require lightweight materials that must be formed at high temperatures. Advances in tribology can support the production of lightweight materials, improve the efficiency of the process, and increase the longevity of the implements and machinery that are used. Consuming Energy without Waste In his 1938 book, Nine Chains to the Moon, architect and futurist R. Buckminster Fuller coined the phrase “ephemeralization.” It refers to the ability of technological advancement to do “more and more with less and less until eventually you can do everything with nothing.” Advances in energy efficiency are a long way off from allowing humanity to do “everything with nothing,” but research and development are certainly finding new ways to do more while consuming and wasting less. If society is to win the war against carbon emissions and global warming, efficiency may prove to be one of its most important resources, and in that regard, tribology will play a part. *Rick Laezman is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, California, US. He has a passion for energy efficiency and innovation. He has covered renewable power and other related subjects for over ten years.

How to Climate-Ready A Home, Reduce Emissions, and Save Money By David Dodge* The idea of home energy retrofits has come a long way. ©David Dodge The idea of home energy retrofits has come a long way. Remember the programs that encouraged people to caulk the cracks, change light bulbs, and add a little insulation here and there? That was then; this is now. Today, wildly fluctuating energy prices, severe weather patterns, and rapidly evolving technological expertise make it indispensable as well as possible to radically improve homes’ energy efficiency, produce one’s energy, and divorce from the vagaries of energy utilities. It’s called deep energy retrofits—a holistic, whole-home approach to improving homes' energy efficiency, comfort, and operational affordability. Save Money, Reduce Emissions Buildings are responsible for about 40% of greenhouse gas emissions—around 28% comes from “operational emissions (such as the energy needed to heat, cool, and power them), and 11% from materials and construction known as embodied carbon.” (See “Decarbonizing the Building Sector,” The Earth & I.) The good news is that there is a growing body of knowledge about how to raise the energy efficiency of homes, heat and cool them with electric heat pumps, and power them with solar. Harold Orr was one of the pioneers of the passive house concept, which involves super-insulated homes that require very little energy to heat. ©David Dodge The good news is that there is a growing body of knowledge about how to raise the energy efficiency of homes, heat and cool them with electric heat pumps, and power them with solar. Housing engineer Harold Orr figured this out in the 1970s during the so-called “oil crisis.” He and his colleagues at the Saskatchewan Research Council, Canada, were asked to build a solar-powered home. But they realized it couldn’t be done without overhauling the home's insulation. Orr became one of the pioneers of the passive house concept. Today, there are numerous strategies to retrofit homes to become super energy-efficient. Moving From ‘Dabbling’ to ‘Deep’ Energy Retrofit At first, Canadian energy expert Jim Sandercock, PhD, who owned an energy inefficient 1951 bungalow, did what many people do: He dabbled in energy efficiency, upgraded his insulation a little bit, replaced his roof, and added solar panels. But these improvements didn’t make much of a difference, and then he was burdened with those sunk costs. It was after doing the minor retrofits that Jim Sandercock realized he really wanted a Deep Energy Retrofit to take his home all the way to net-zero. The term net-zero refers to a home that produces all its energy on a net annual basis. Sandercock viewed his home as having “great bones” and well worth the retrofit effort. He became aware of a pilot program in Canada that was using the EnergieSprong concept from the Netherlands. It performed deep energy retrofits by laser scanning the home and literally dropping new walls and a roof over the old ones. The Sandercock home was renovated to net-zero by building new walls in a factory and craning them over top of the old walls to create super-insulated walls. ©David Dodge It would allow Sandercock to double down on insulation, tighten up the home, and bring it to net-zero. So that’s what he did. New wall panels were built in a factory, delivered, and craned in, right over the top of the old 2x4 R12 walls, bringing the walls to an amazing R40 level of insulation. How to Do a Deep Energy Retrofit Here are the steps to do one’s own Deep Energy Retrofit. 1. Home Energy Evaluation The blower door test reveals how leaky the home is. ©David Dodge A good home energy evaluation will check the insulation, windows, and mechanical systems, and, most importantly, a blower-door test will be done to find out how leaky the current home is. Most older homes are very porous, allowing four, five, six, or more air exchanges per hour due to cracks, electrical outlets and holes in the house, bathroom vents, chimney stacks, and other things. By comparison, a net-zero home typically allows one air exchange per hour. The evaluation will show how much energy a home requires, and a good evaluation will itemize the improvements one can make and the benefits of each. 2. Building Envelope Insulation levels are the most critical factors in making a home much more efficient. Deep energy retrofits often target R35 or R40 walls, about R80 in the roof, and insulation is added down the wall underground right down to the home's foundation to form an unbroken blanket of insulation. (The R-value indicates a material's ability to reduce heat flow, with a higher number meaning better insulation.) Often, a new wall is built with space between the old and new wall that can be filled with insulation. Windows are the weakest link in the home, so triple-paned windows are often used to cut down on heating/cooling losses. 3. Net-zero ready heating and cooling Net-zero builder Peter Amerongen with the double-studded wall system that he and many others use to produce R35-R40 walls. ©David Dodge One of the significant benefits of a super-insulated home is that it will require 70%–90% less energy to heat it. For this reason, most deep energy retrofit projects replace gas furnaces with heat pumps. Air source heat pumps are up to 300% efficient and are rated to be operational at -31 °F (-35 °C). A geothermal ground source heat pump is even more robust but more expensive. Heat pump water heaters are also very efficient, and the best part is both of these systems run on electricity, allowing homeowners to potentially cut the gas line and, more importantly, the gas bill. Finally, a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV) is added to provide plenty of fresh air to the new super-tight home. These devices recover more than 70% of the heat from exhaust air, saving even more energy. Heat pumps are a very efficient way to warm the home, create hot water, and even dry clothes. ©David Dodge 4. Generating one’s renewable energy Net-zero homes produce all their own energy on a net-annual basis using solar modules. ©David Dodge Solar is now one of the cheapest ways to generate electricity on the planet, and solar is the coup de grâce of the deep energy retrofit to get to net-zero. Alberta, Canada, homeowners Darcy and Darren Crichton did their DIY (do-it-yourself) deep energy retrofit using geothermal heating and cooling, and their utility bill last year ended with a positive balance. They cut their gas line and only have an electricity bill these days. Solar is now one of the cheapest ways to generate electricity on the planet, and solar is the coup de grâce of the deep energy retrofit to get to net-zero. 5. ‘Icing on the Cake’ Induction cooktops are twice as efficient as electric stoves. ©David Dodge Those first four steps can easily deliver a net-zero home, but a few other cool things can further improve a home. Speaking of baking cakes, an induction range is twice as energy efficient as a standard electric stove and performs better than any other kind of stove. Heat pump dryers are much more efficient, and many come in ventless models, thus eliminating another hole (the vent) in a wall. And, of course, homeowners can use LED lights, low-flow water devices, and smart home technologies to make the home even more efficient and functional. Whom to Call? A deep energy retrofit done all at once can cost $100,000 or more. It will pay for itself in time, but it’s important to work with contractors who have already done similar work and can provide references. State, local, and national incentive programs often provide a homeowner with incentives for various components. State, local, and national incentive programs often provide a homeowner with incentives for various components, so explore these options. Some areas also have Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing programs that provide loans with payment plans that are synced to the paybacks of the investment, so one does not pay out of pocket. In Canada, a federal interest-free loan is available, but it’s capped at CAD 40,000. Canadians Jesse and Jena Tufts have a 1953 bungalow in Edmonton. The home needed some work anyway, and they wanted to transform their story-and-a-half home into a two-story home. According to a February 2023 article by the City of Edmonton, they transformed their old home into a dream home with R44 insulated walls by adding most of the features described above. They replaced their roof with a solar-optimized south-facing roof with a rooftop deck surrounded by the roof’s solar panels. Jesse is an engineer, and after the renovation, he took a job with the company that did the renovation. He is now one of the most knowledgeable deep energy retrofitters out there. What about DIY? Staging one’s project DIY over time for budgetary reasons, the key is doing it right the first time, one step at a time. Sandercock, for instance, had to remove his solar panels from his home and reinstall them after his deep energy retrofit. For a DIY renovation, one must do the homework. It’s better to do one thing right rather than dabble in half measures. The results will be better, and there won’t be any regrets when one decides to take the home to the next level. That’s what the Crichtons did. They began their deep energy retrofit 20 years ago before anyone knew what deep energy retrofit or net-zero even meant! In their inspiring story, the couple researched their options and added double walls, replaced the roof, added a geothermal ground source heat pump and solar panels, and make money on their utilities today. One year ago, the Crichtons still had a gas line, a gas stove, and a gas heater in the workshop. They were so inspired after adding the geothermal system that they ditched the gas stove, bought an induction stove, added even more solar panels, and cut the gas line. They benefited from a bevy of incentives and grants and are very happy with the result. Whether DIY or hiring a contractor, doing it right will pay dividends for the life of the home and add value to it as well. *David Dodge is an environmental journalist, photojournalist, and the host and producer of GreenEnergyFutures.ca, a series of micro-documentaries on clean energy, transportation, and buildings. He’s worked for newspapers and published magazines and produced more than 350 award-winning EcoFile radio programs on sustainability for CKUA Radio.

More Europeans Using ‘Plug-and-Play’ Solar Energy Systems to Electrify Their Homes *By Richard Kemeny Balcony solar panels are popping up on balconies across Germany. ©Milos Ruzicka/iStock A new green energy craze is sweeping through Germany. Tiny solar power plants are popping up on balconies across the country, giving citizens the ability to take power directly from the sun and into their homes. According to data from Germany’s Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur), demand is soaring for these plug-in balcony photovoltaic systems. Official figures suggest the number of registered systems has grown in the country from around 137,000 in 2022 to well over 400,000 in 2024—and the trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down. This surge in balcony voltaic systems is thought to be spurred by several overlapping drivers, including climate change, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and skyrocketing energy prices. Given the right support and conditions, this simple, effective energy source could soon become more than a German zeitgeist (“the spirit of the time”) phenomenon and spread to homes around the world. What Is Balcony Solar? Much like solar farms and rooftop panels, balcony solar devices use photovoltaic cells to capture energy from sunlight and convert it to electricity. Also known as plug-in solar devices, they consist of small solar panels installed on available balcony space, either directly onto the railings or on stands. These plug-and-play systems do not need professional installation, giving an opportunity for those living in apartments or without access to a roof or large outdoor space to join the solar revolution. Balcony solar panels help everyday citizens to lower their electricity costs. @astrid860/iStock The panels gather energy from sunlight to generate direct electric current. This is then converted via an inverter into the alternative current used in major energy grids. The system can then be plugged into an electrical outlet, adding solar-generated electricity straight into a household’s electrical system. Electricity created by these devices [balcony solar panels] can be used to power or charge appliances directly, which helps to bring down electricity costs. Electricity created by these devices can be used to power or charge appliances directly, which helps to bring down electricity costs. It gives everyday citizens a way to make their own lives less reliant on fossil fuels. In some cases—depending on local regulations and grid systems—electricity can even be fed back into the grid for a financial reward. What About Efficiency? Of course, the efficiency of solar panels depends on the amount of accessible sunlight. This means the energy generation capacity of balcony solar panels is necessarily limited, compared to rooftops, which can generally accommodate larger and greater numbers of panels. Solar panels are able to produce around 15 watts (W) on average per square foot. A 10-square-foot balcony could therefore produce around 150W during “peak sun hours”—where sunlight intensity is an average of 1,000W per 10.5 feet. Balcony solar systems can also be combined with battery storage packs to store excess electricity for use during cloudy weather or at night—or if the electricity grid fails. Balcony solar systems can also be combined with battery storage packs to store excess electricity for use during cloudy weather or at night—or if the electricity grid fails. There are other factors to consider. Balconies that are partially shaded by natural or man-made structures will see their energy production reduced. The orientation of an apartment can drastically affect how much sunlight it receives and how much electricity it can produce. In Germany, a 400W balcony solar system facing southwards at the right angle will generate around 320W on average; yet this would fall to half in slightly cloudy weather. Cleaning balcony solar panels during winter weather. ©Astrid Gast As is the case with many renewable energies, shifting weather patterns affect how much electricity is generated. In British summers, which can provide around five peak hours per day, this balcony could produce 750 watt-hours (Wh) though this figure would fall dramatically during the winter. Moreover, even though solar panels on balconies may not be as exposed as on rooftops, they are still vulnerable to strong winds and must be secured. Snow and hail can affect both balcony solar panels and rooftop panels. Cost Considerations If well maintained, solar panels usually last around 25 years. Ideally, one would want to recuperate one’s investment in the balcony power plant beforehand to make it worthwhile economically. Costs for solar panels and balcony solar systems vary. But if a 360W capacity balcony solar power system costs around $2,000 in the US, it could take up to 25 years to break even, depending on energy prices and weather conditions over that period. In Germany, economic incentives appear to be a major driver behind the success of plug-in solar plants. In January 2023, the German government made balcony generators exempt from VAT (value-added tax). In Europe, the average costs of these systems can range between €1,500-3,000 (about $1,630 to $3,261), some are available for less than €300 (about $326). Many of the costs are heavily subsidized by German states and/or municipalities (with direct subsidies of up to €500, or about $543) and can range up to €1,450 (about $1,576) per system depending on size and capacity. Another reason behind Germany’s balcony solar boom is that many citizens live in apartments, making small solar systems an enticing option. Compared with US residences, German homes demand far less energy: On average, German families use around 3,500 kWh of electricity per year while in the US, electricity demand is roughly triple that per household. Ironically, US electricity costs are a lot less—$0.13 / kWh compared with $0.52 / kWh in Germany. Modern apartment building in Germany: One reason behind the balcony solar boom is that many citizens live in apartments, making small solar systems an enticing option. ©Maryana Serdynska/iStock Streamlining Solar Regulations Germany has relaxed legislation surrounding balcony solar systems to further boost uptake, setting an example for like-minded European countries like Austria and Switzerland. In April 2024, the German government passed “Solarpaket 1,” a set of legal reforms including a simplified grid connection procedure for balcony power systems. The energy threshold for registration of balcony plants has also been raised from 600W to 800W. The German government passed … a set of legal reforms including a simplified grid connection procedure for balcony power systems. Regulations can be more complex elsewhere, however. In the US, balcony power systems can require the same permits as large rooftop systems, making the whole process more onerous. In New York, height limits for balcony systems are set at 10 feet due to citywide building restrictions. While planning permission generally isn’t required, state and local restrictions may apply, which could be the deciding factor in whether someone chooses to invest in such a system. That being said, people wishing to install a balcony solar system in the US may be eligible for a federal solar tax credit. But the potential is staggering for an American balcony solar revolution similar to that seen in Germany. Some estimates suggest plug-in balcony systems in the US could generate over 108 million MWh/year— four times the amount generated by the country’s solar industry in 2015—and offer somewhere in the order of $13 billion per year in energy savings. The case of Germany shows how political will, funding, and the relaxation of red tape can dramatically increase uptake in this new, clean energy source. Inviting citizens into the energy creation process could transform consumers into “prosumers” who are more environmentally minded. While a country’s energy consumption profile doesn’t turn on one system, balcony solar systems could have a measurable impact if their adoption could reach a critical mass. *Richard Kemeny writes about archaeology, marine biology, oceanography, ecology, technology, and the environment

How Environmental Groups are Saving a Severely Troubled River By Marion Warin Miller* Volunteers during an Anacostia River cleanup event. ©Tami Heilemann/Public Domain National Archives and Records Administration In the summertime, when vacationers revel in the splendor of nature, conservationist volunteers and organizations hit the trails, rivers, forests, and other landscapes to clean and restore the natural beauty of these sites. In the DC area, one beneficiary of these efforts is the Anacostia River—or the “East Branch” of the Potomac River, as it was once called. The 8.5-mile Anacostia runs from its shallow beginnings around Bladensburg, Maryland, through Washington, DC, until it merges with the mighty Potomac River. The Anacostia’s watershed includes heavily populated areas of Prince George’s County and Montgomery County as well as the District of Columbia. Despite all the modern development—and pollution—surrounding its banks, the Anacostia River Watershed is “still a remarkably rich natural area,” says the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS). The nonprofit group said a recent inventory of species, called a BioBlitz, found 522 unique species around the Anacostia, including: bald eagles, beavers, ospreys, cormorants, white perch, striped bass, crayfish, herons, turtles, egrets, otters, red fox, shad, kingfishers, catfish, and mussels. Today, the Anacostia River continues to be cleaned and restored by several exemplary environmental organizations. In fact, a select few sections of the Anacostia River have been deemed safe enough to swim in, according to The Swim Guide. This marks an improvement over 2018, when none of the Anacostia beaches tracked by theswimguide.org could pass a water test. The Anacostia Story Historians say the first riverkeepers of the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers were indigenous tribes, such as the Piscataway, Nacotchtank (or Anacostank), Pamunkey, and Mattaponi, among others. In 1608, Captain John Smith, a leader of the Jamestown colony, and twelve companions conducted explorations of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and were well received by the Nacotchtank, the most northerly of the Algonquin tribes living along the Potomac. Captain Smith documented these forays in his journal, The Sixt Voyage (1606): “Within is a country that may have the prerogative over the most pleasant places known, for large and pleasant navigable rivers, heaven and earth never agreed better to frame a place for man's habitation.” The tribal name, Nacotchtank, meaning “town of traders,” was later Latinized to Anacostine. Hence the river’s name, Anacostia, is an homage to the indigenous people who inhabited this area and its abundant wildlife and clear rivers teeming with fish and other marine life. The Anacostia River’s name is an homage to the indigenous people who inhabited this area and its abundant wildlife and clear rivers teeming with fish and other marine life. ©Beck Harlan From Pristine to ‘Unfixable’ With the passage of time, industrial development and environmental mismanagement began to foul America’s rivers flowing through urban, suburban, and commercial areas. The Anacostia River became so befouled it was dubbed the “forgotten river” and “unfixable.” A major culprit was the Washington Navy Yard that was built on its banks near Southeast DC in 1800. This US Navy installation “manufactured guns and munitions, built ships, and deposited toxic sediment in the riverbed” through the mid-1960s, the DC Appleseed Center for Law and Justice said in a recent report. Toxic sediment, sewage overflows, industrial waste, urban and stormwater runoff, litter and trash, and illegal discharges all helped make the river unsafe for swimming and fishing. In addition to that toxic sediment, sewage overflows, industrial waste, urban and stormwater runoff, litter and trash, and illegal discharges all helped make the river unsafe for swimming and fishing, and harmed the wildlife living in or near the river. By the 1960s, other rivers were also found to be suffering. In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson, speaking to state governors and other officials, exclaimed that he found the polluted Potomac flowing near the Capitol building “disgraceful.” Fortunately, such sentiments eventually led to the groundbreaking passage of the Water Quality Act of 1965 and, later, the Clean Water Act of 1972. Senator Howard Baker, a Republican from Tennessee, stated in defense of the Clean Water Act, “As I have talked with thousands of Tennesseans, I have found that the kind of natural environment we bequeath to our children and grandchildren is of paramount importance. If we cannot swim in our lakes and rivers, if we cannot breathe the air God has given us, what other comforts can life offer us?” Reversing the Anacostia River’s Crisis To counter the pollution of the Anacostia River, environmental organizations, such as the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS), the Anacostia Riverkeeper (ARK), and the Earth Conservation Corps (ECC), have been at the forefront of efforts to clean up the river, educate the public, and recruit volunteers. They also conduct scientific research to help develop strategies to protect the river in the future. The Anacostia Watershed Society The AWS prioritizes community involvement and offers educational programs and volunteer opportunities, such as writing letters, making phone calls, and picking up trash. One of AWS's large-scale activities involves mussel population restoration. Biologists have long been aware that mussels, like oysters, play an important role in keeping rivers and waterways clean. Biologists have long been aware that mussels, like oysters, play an important role in keeping rivers and waterways clean. When mussels feed, they act like powerful vacuum cleaners, filtering materials out of several gallons of water per day. In fact, they have been used in New Zealand to help filter and clear up that nation’s freshwater lakes (see the Earth & I article “Mussel Power Cleans New Zealand’s Freshwater Lakes.”) Many of the mussels previously found in the Anacostia River are either endangered or extinct. AWS is now working with Professor John Pfeiffer, a zoologist at the National Museum of Natural History, to raise awareness of local mussel restoration. “Since 2019, the Anacostia Watershed Society has released more than 24,000 mussels into Washington’s Anacostia River, which will filter an equivalent of 132 Olympic-sized swimming pools each year,” says a recent article in Smithsonian Magazine. The AWS also recently launched a project called “Mussel May,” in which volunteers re-introduced several thousands of mussels into the river. The Emerald Ash Borer Threat Another problem besetting the Anacostia region is the devastation of the ash forests along the riverbanks. Anacostia watershed ash tree forest in 2007 before the infestation with Emerald Ash Borers. Photo Courtesy of NPS Approximately twenty years ago, an invasive beetle from Asia known as the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) appeared in North America, decimating ash tree forests in several states. About ten years ago, these beetles began attacking the ash trees adjacent to the Anacostia River. Although in Asia, ash trees have developed a natural resistance to the beetles, the North American ash species is vulnerable and can suffer a 99% mortality rate with no intervention. Although in Asia, ash trees have developed a natural resistance to the beetles, the North American ash species is vulnerable and can suffer a 99% mortality rate with no intervention. “You don’t know how much ash trees make up a riparian forest until they’re dead,” Jorge Bogantes, AWS's Natural Resources Specialist, told the DCist this year. He and his team of volunteers have planted hundreds of trees of fifteen different species not affected by the EAB pest on both sides of the Anacostia River to recreate the forest amidst the dead ash tree snags. Anacostia watershed ash tree forest in 2017 after the infestation with Emerald Ash Borers. Photo Courtesy of NPS The online exhibit Ash Forest Project offers information about the ash tree forest ecosystem and how people can become stewards of this vital natural environment. Anacostia Riverkeeper The ARK works “to protect and restore the Anacostia River for all who live, work, and play in its watershed, and to advocate for a clean river for all its communities.” In line with its mission statement, ARK schedules volunteer cleanup activities. In 2022, for example, more than nine hundred volunteers collected over 20,000 pounds of trash from the river and its shoreline. Besides raw sewage, a rising source of pollution for the Anacostia is the illegal dumping of tires from vehicles. Besides raw sewage, a rising source of pollution for the Anacostia is the illegal dumping of tires from vehicles. This past spring, ARK worked with a group of students from The George Washington University’s Environmental Resource Policy Capstone Project to investigate the issue of tire pollution in the Anacostia watershed and determine how best to mitigate it. The students recommended that the DC government assess a nominal fee on the sale of all new and used tires, of which a small amount would go to the dealer and the bulk of the fee would go to a tire management fund. Such types of funds have been used elsewhere to expedite tire cleanup, deter repeat offenders, develop a monitoring task force, and schedule free tire drop-off events. ARK volunteers also regularly sample and monitor the river’s water quality to alert the community to the ongoing health of the Anacostia River. Earth Conservation Corps In 1992, nine youths from the Valley Green public housing project in Southeast DC kickstarted the ECC by deciding to improve their lives through environmental cleanup. The nonprofit ECC has since helped at-risk youth transform their lives by improving the environment in which they live. The ECC and its allies have long targeted the Anacostia River for rehabilitation and have ended up raising and investing more than $40 million in youth-driven conservation projects. After thirty-one years of clean river advocacy and conservation programs, there is a visible improvement in surface-level river quality and millions of dollars are planned in current and future investments. ECC volunteers posing at the Anacostia waterfront in Washington, DC. Photo Courtesy of EPA With the support of the National Wildlife Federation, AmeriCorps, and other groups, the ECC has helped to restore and maintain DC’s first certified wetland along the Anacostia. After thirty-one years of clean river advocacy and conservation programs, there is a visible improvement in surface-level river quality and millions of dollars are planned in current and future investments. The Anacostia Recovery The Anacostia River is a precious historical and natural treasure. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, birds, and turtles. The growing success of the efforts to clean up the Anacostia River shows that when people take ownership of their environment and engage in wise stewardship, both natural habitats and America’s communities can become healthier and more livable. In concord, the DC government is investing in improving its processes to prevent wastewater from entering the Capital’s waterways untreated. *Marion Warin Miller is a French bilingual researcher, writer, and editor now residing in Northern Virginia. She has master’s degrees in Business and Economics, and in International Economics and Economic Development. She has also ministered for community development and world peace. As a grandmother of eight, she is deeply interested in environmental stewardship and preserving natural wonders for future generations. She has traveled to many natural sites in countries around the world and now escapes to the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley National Park whenever time allows.

Prof. Susie Dai examining tubes of bioengineered algae in her University of Missouri lab. Abbie Nell Lankitus/University of Missouri A discovery by a team at the University of Missouri may lead to an easy and natural way of cleaning microplastics from wastewater. Led by Dr. Susie Dai—a professor in the College of Engineering and principal investigator at the Bond Life Sciences Center—the research team focused on a specific strain of alga. They “used genetic engineering to create a new kind of algae that produces a volatile natural oil called limonene—the same chemical that gives oranges their refreshing scent,” the university said in a press release. “Limonene makes the new algae water-repellent. Because microplastics are also water-repellent, the two come together like magnets when they meet in water, forming clumps that sink to the bottom and create a solid layer of biomass that is easy to collect and remove.” According to a report by Harvest Public Media and KCUR/NPR in March, “[b]oth Dai’s engineered algae and the tiny pieces of plastic are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and attract each other. By changing the genetic code of the algae, the scientists can dial up its stickiness factor, removing more than 90% of microplastics in a water sample within an hour.” Dai’s research, which was first begun when she was at Texas A&M University, was detailed in a study with 10 colleagues published in Nature Communications in December 2025. Microplastics—tiny fragments resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic waste—have become a pervasive environmental contaminant found in oceans, freshwater systems, and even drinking water. Their small size makes them difficult to filter out using conventional wastewater treatment methods, prompting scientists to search for more effective solutions. Dai’s approach offers a threefold benefit. First, it directly removes microplastics from water sources. Second, the algae simultaneously absorb excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, helping to clean wastewater and reduce harmful algal blooms. Third, the collected biomass—including the captured plastics—can be manufactured into composite materials such as bioplastic films, supporting a circular economy. “By removing the microplastics, cleaning the wastewater and eventually using the removed microplastics to create bioplastic products for good, we can tackle three issues with one approach,” Dai told the Show Me Mizzou news release. “While our research is still in the early stages, our eventual goal is to integrate this new process into existing wastewater treatment plants so cities can clean their water more effectively and reduce pollution while creating useful products at the same time.” A Coincidence of Science The discovery itself was serendipitous. Dai’s lab originally engineered the alga to produce biofuels for aviation. During testing, researchers observed the alga’s unexpected tendency to aggregate plastic particles, leading to a pivot in research focus with potentially far-reaching environmental implications. The team is now working to scale up the technology using large bioreactors, including a 100-liter (26.4-gallon) system nicknamed “Shrek.” These systems cultivate the algae under controlled conditions, with the goal of integrating the process into existing wastewater treatment infrastructure. Experts say scalability will be key. While laboratory results are promising, deploying the technology across municipal systems will require further testing, regulatory approval, and cost analysis. Still, early indications suggest it could complement or enhance current filtration methods. Additional reporting highlights the broader significance of the work, noting that microplastic pollution is increasingly linked to ecological and human health concerns. If successfully scaled, the Missouri team’s innovation could mark a turning point in how communities address one of the most persistent forms of modern pollution—transforming microscopic waste into manageable, even reusable, material.

A pair of sodium-ion batteries. Vladimir022009/Wikipedia In the global race to decarbonize, a common, kitchen-table element is emerging as the unlikely hero of the energy transition. As of 2026, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have moved from experimental curiosities to a pivotal commercial reality, offering a cheaper, safer, and more abundant alternative to the lithium-ion systems that have dominated the last decade. The momentum shifted decisively in late 2025 and early 2026, as industrial giants like Chinese battery maker CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co.) launched the Naxtra line, the world’s first mass-producible sodium-ion battery family. In February 2026, the first mass-produced passenger electric vehicle (EV) equipped with these batteries was unveiled, signaling a new era for affordable urban mobility. Sodium: Abundant and High-Performing The primary driver behind this shift is material abundance. Sodium is over 1,000 times more plentiful in the Earth's crust than lithium, making it immune to the extreme price volatility and geopolitical bottlenecks associated with “white gold” mining. Furthermore, SIBs utilize aluminum for their anode current collectors instead of the expensive copper required for lithium cells, potentially slashing production costs by 30%. Performance breakthroughs are also narrowing the gap. While lithium still leads in energy density for high-performance cars, the latest sodium-ion cells have reached 175 Wh/kg—sufficient for city cars with ranges exceeding 400 km. Crucially, sodium-ion batteries excel in extreme cold, maintaining 90% capacity at -40°C, a threshold where traditional batteries often fail. Industry experts see this as a strategic turning point. An analysis by the International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights the growing role of sodium as a market stabilizer: “For the largest global battery manufacturers ... sodium‑ion expertise and production capacity can act as a strategic hedge against the risk of lithium price spikes, enabling rapid switching if needed.” Beyond transportation, the most profound impact may be on the electrical grid. In March 2026, Peak Energy announced the deployment of a passively cooled sodium-ion system in the US Midwest. Because sodium-ion cells are inherently more stable and less prone to “thermal runaway” (battery fires), they do not require the heavy, energy-intensive cooling infrastructure of lithium plants. Some Exciting Serendipity Perhaps most futuristic is a breakthrough from the University of Surrey, where researchers discovered that keeping water within the battery material nearly doubles its energy capacity and allows it to function as a desalination tool. Dr. Daniel Commandeur, the study’s lead author, noted: “Being able to use sodium vanadate hydrate in salt water is a really exciting discovery, as it shows sodium-ion batteries could do more than just store energy—they could also help remove salt from water.” By late 2026, sodium-ion is no longer just a “budget” alternative. It is a diversified energy solution that promises to make renewable storage safer, EVs more affordable, and the global supply chain more resilient.

Will Be the Start of 3 New National Forests Rolling hills and farmland near Coberley that typify the Cotswolds landscape in the western UK. The government will be planting more trees in the area to diminish flooding and drought. Saffron Blaze/Wikipedia The UK government has officially embarked on a major environmental infrastructure initiative to plant 20 million trees across western England by 2050. This launches the development of the “Western Forest” with a quadruple goal of encouraging biodiversity, mitigating floods and droughts, expanding the number of accessible public green spaces, and sequestering carbon. It will be the first of three planned national forests, which will serve as a cornerstone of the government's long-term environmental strategy. The Western Forest will span a diverse landscape connecting the Cotswolds to the Mendip Hills, covering parts of Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Bristol, and Somerset, which are traditionally called the “West of England." Strategically designed to serve more than 2.5 million residents, the initiative integrates new woodlands into both urban centers and rural agricultural zones, promoting biodiversity and community access to forests. By leveraging a collaborative model, the project focuses on agroforestry, encouraging farmers to integrate trees into existing agricultural operations without compromising food production, while simultaneously revitalizing undermanaged existing woodlands. Strategic Objectives Carbon Sequestration: The project contributes directly to the UK’s legally binding net-zero targets by 2050. Biodiversity Recovery: The initiative aims to create at least 2,500 hectares (6,177 acres) of new woodland to help halt species decline and support the goal of protecting 30% of land for nature by 2030. Canopy Targets: This forest is a critical component in driving England’s total woodland cover toward a 16.5% target by 2050. Beyond the environmental imperatives, the Western Forest acts as a catalyst for local economic growth. Supported by an initial government investment of up to £7.5 million ($9.9 million), the program promotes green job creation and skills development within the forestry sector. Nature Minister Mary Creagh has emphasized that this project is essential for “bringing nature closer to people” and preventing localized flooding risks, which are increasingly critical in the face of climate instability. This development is merely the beginning of a broader national infrastructure push. Following the launch of the Western Forest, the government has already opened the competition for a delivery partner for a second national forest in the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor and is currently identifying potential sites for a third in the Midlands or North of England. This final forest is designed to address regional health inequalities through the creation of accessible green space. As the UK navigates the transition toward sustainable land use, these three forests represent a fundamental shift in how the nation views infrastructure—not merely as concrete and steel, but as a living, carbon-capturing network essential for long-term climate resilience.