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Discontinued Gas Products Still Flowing into Europe Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant gases are being phased out in Europe and elsewhere, but in an April 8 report, London-based nonprofit Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) warned of a widespread, illegal HFC trade going on in Europe. HFCs are used for essential services such as refrigeration, air-conditioning, building insulation, fire extinguishing systems, and aerosols, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. But HFCs are implicated as a greenhouse gas, and their use is being reduced and discontinued. The Climate and Clean Air Coalition says there are many climate-friendly alternatives, so HFC emissions can be virtually eliminated by 2050. European Union emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gas) peaked in 2014, the European Environment  Agency in 2023. These emissions have since fallen by about 25% in part because of an EU-wide HFC phase-down that started in 2019 under the Montreal Protocol, the EEA said. It added that the EU is currently “on track” to meet its targets and phase out HFC use by 2030. The EIA report said the illegal HFC gas trade it spotted five years ago is continuing. EIA said its investigators, acting partly undercover, found evidence that “significant levels of trafficking persist” despite the refrigerant phase-down. The EIA attributes the problem to organized crime cashing in on the highly lucrative trade by circumventing “weak” enforcement via sophisticated evasion tactics. The gases are sourced by smugglers from China and Turkey, and brought across the continent into Bulgaria and other countries just outside the EU bloc. Their final destinations are nations such as Greece, Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, according to the EIA. Smugglers avoid detection by “disguising” HFCs as less-regulated hydrofluoroolefins (HFO), which has a lower potential to react with ozone. According to EIA Senior Climate Campaigner Fin Walravens, HFC smuggling is not only driven by outsized profits for traffickers, but it is also “fueled by ongoing demand for the gases, primarily used in the cooling sector.” “Globally, HFCs are being phased down under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer,” she said. In the meantime, she said, “There is an urgent need for coordinated proactive enforcement efforts across the EU to combat HFC climate crime.” Sources: https://eia-international.org/news/illegal-smuggling-of-refrigerant-gases-into-europe-continues-as-the-climate-crisis-worsens/ https://www.ccacoalition.org/short-lived-climate-pollutants/hydrofluorocarbons-hfcs https://www.epa.gov/snap/reducing-hydrofluorocarbon-hfc-use-and-emissions-federal-sector-through-snap#:~:text=Hydrofluorocarbons%20(HFCs)%20are%20greenhouse%20gases,fire%20extinguishing%20systems%2C%20and%20aerosols. https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/analysis/indicators/hydrofluorocarbon-phase-down-in-europe

By Robin Whitlock* As concerns increase about plastic pollution—especially from single-use plastics—bioplastics are garnering interest for their potential role in the development of a circular economy for plastics. Bioplastics, which are made with organic, plant-based resources, are viewed as an important alternative to fossil-produced plastics as a significant means of reducing the influx of conventional plastics. Yet, bioplastics also face limitations in terms of functionality and cost compared to their conventional counterparts. Given the “bio” in its name, bioplastics can give the impression that they are always all-natural or biodegradable when this is not necessarily true. To learn more about the characteristics and properties of bioplastics, The Earth & I spoke with Tanya Hart, founder and CEO of Titan Bioplastics, a Seattle-based engineering company that focuses on recycled plastics and (plant-based) bioplastic composites suitable for industrial, energy, military, and commercial retail use. Bioplastics and ‘Augie Bones’ Titan Bioplastics makes a product that millions of households can relate to—a biobased and biodegradable dog chew toy trademarked Augie Bones. On its website, the company explains that “Our dog Augie was chewing all sorts of [plastic] bones and chew toys, leaving chords of plastic everywhere.” None of those plastics could be recycled since many of the toys were blends of nylon and plastics; plus there were potential health risks for Augie and other dogs “from constantly swallowing the bits off the toys.” Titan Bioplastics says it found “a better material that was both healthy for our dogs and the planet,” and launched Augie Bones chew toys that contain no nylon or traditional plastics. In fact, if dogs bury an Augie Bone, “it will compost,” the website says. Background on Bioplastics Plastics can be generated from either bio-based feedstock, such as plant starches and oils, or fossil-based feedstock, often referred to as “fossil fuels.” Additionally, plastics are classified as either biodegradable or non-biodegradable. It is these four criteria: bio-based, fossil-based, biodegradable, and non-biodegradable, by which plastics are categorized. Conventional plastics are always both fossil-based and non-biodegradable. Bioplastics, on the other hand, are more diverse: they are either bio-based, or biodegradable, or both. However, it’s important to note that some bioplastics can be bio-based but non-biodegradable, or conversely, fossil-based but bio-degradable. Hence, the “bio” in bioplastics refers to “bio-based” or “biodegradable.” “However, it’s important to note that some bioplastics can be bio-based but non-biodegradable, or conversely, fossil-based but bio-degradable. Hence, the 'bio' in bioplastics refers to ‘bio-based’ or ‘biodegradable’.” Defining bioplastics is further complicated by the term, “biodegradability,” which typically adheres to industrial standards with conditions not always present in residential or natural settings; exceptions would include specific products that are certified compostable in residential settings, such as those with TÜV Austria’s OK compost HOME certification. Properties of Bioplastics Like conventional plastics, bioplastics are manufactured and tailored to suit their specific applications. “We provide customized composites with plant-based materials and recycled plastics,” Hart says. “Most companies we work with require the materials we develop be ‘fitted’ or customized to existing equipment for a commercial purpose or product. In other words, we don’t have a one-size-fits-all material or product.” Bioplastics that are biobased and biodegradable include PLA (polylactic acid), PHAs (polyhydroxyalkanoates), and PBS (polybutylene succinate). PLA is made from lactic acid, which is typically derived from starch, cellulose, kitchen waste, and fish waste. It is considered more environmentally friendly given how it can degrade into carbon dioxide, water, and lactic acid chains. Other advantages include its transparency, biocompatibility, and thermoplasticity, but it also has low toughness and high production costs. PHAs are notable for being derived from fermentation of renewable feedstocks like sugars or plant oils. Aside from having thermoplasticity and good insulation, they have various medical applications given their biocompatibility with human bones and tissues. PBS is a polyester traditionally produced from petrochemicals but can also be made from renewable resources such as sugarcane, cassava, and corn with fermentation. It has good mechanical properties and thermal stability, with applications in textile filaments, injection molds, and film production, being comparable to LDPE, HDPE, and PP. Advantages and Disadvantages of Bioplastics Aside from their biodegradability, bioplastics can have a lower carbon footprint and advantageous properties over conventional plastics. They also can have lower greenhouse gas emissions; for example, a 2017 study indicated that replacing conventional plastic with corn-based PLA could see a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from plastic production in the US. General disadvantages of bioplastics include their sensitivity to heat, humidity, and shear stress. They also face other challenges such as limited ability to replace conventional plastics, higher production costs, and supply chain restrictions over conventional plastic. Additional drawbacks include adverse agricultural impacts, competition with food production (such as corn), and unclear “end-of-life” (EOL) management. “[Bioplastics] also face other challenges such as limited ability to replace conventional plastics, higher production costs, ... supply chain restrictions over conventional plastic[,] ... adverse agricultural impacts, competition with food production ... , and unclear 'end-of-life' (EOL) management.” In a 2010 study, seven conventional plastics were compared to four bioplastics and one plastic produced from a mixture of fossil fuels and recycled sources. The bioplastics generated pollutants due to the fertilizers and pesticides applied to the feedstocks and the chemical processing involved in converting organic material into plastic. The bioplastics also contributed to greater ozone depletion and required a larger area of land for production. A 2020 study assessed the in vitro toxicity of various bioplastics, including Bio-PE, Bio-PET, PBAT, PBS, PLA, PHA, and bamboo-based materials. Higher in vitro toxicity measurements were found in the bioplastics than in their respective original raw materials. The lack of sufficient industrial composting facilities is another issue. Most bioplastics are disposed of in landfill sites because very few cities have the necessary high temperature industrial composting sites. Once in a landfill, PHA, for example, can decompose into methane, which absorbs more heat but lasts shorter than CO2 in the atmosphere. Research Underway in Bioplastics Some researchers are investigating the use of microorganisms in bioplastic production. A 2020 study found that bioplastics can be produced using microalgae obtained from wastewater, and there is research on producing PHB from microalgal biomass. There is also research into using organic chemicals in bioplastic production. Biome Bioplastics partnered with the University of Warwick’s Centre for Industrial Biotechnology and Biorefining to extract organic chemicals from lignin (from cell walls in plants) that potentially can be used for bioplastic manufacture. Initial trials on these chemicals have shown that they could be produced at an industrial scale. The company is also examining how bacteria can help increase the yields of the chemicals and how they can be scaled up. In 2021, researchers at University of California, Berkeley, discovered a method of making biodegradable plastics break down more easily with heat and water over the course of a few weeks. With the addition of an enzyme, PLA plastic can biodegrade into simple molecules, thereby making it a potentially suitable replacement for non-degradable plastic. This process is also suitable for municipal composting over a period of 60 to 90 days. Degradation can also be achieved by soaking in lukewarm water. Bioplastics in the Real World A startup in Australia called Pak360 is focusing on compostable packaging, manufactured from renewable fibers. Bioplastic products include compostable garbage bags and produce bags made from PLA, corn starch, and PBAT. A French startup, Lys Packaging, manufactures bioplastic bottles using plant-derived biopolymers and a 3D printing and injection stretch blow molding (ISBM) process. It adds organic or vegetable products into the bioplastic in order to vary the products’ technical and visual properties. Steps Toward Replacing Virgin Plastics Although bioplastics are not a complete solution, they can decrease the production of conventional, virgin plastics—including single-use products—that end up accumulating in the environment. Bioplastics may become more accessible once their production costs drop and an infrastructure is built to support industrial composting and recycling. “When using bioplastics and recycled plastics, the goal is always to inhibit the need for more virgin plastics. Recycled plastics have a bad rap; however, if we are reusing a resource that will prevent the further production of virgin plastic, that will make a large environmental impact in the long run.” “When using bioplastics and recycled plastics, the goal is always to inhibit the need for more virgin plastics. Recycled plastics have a bad rap; however, if we are reusing a resource that will prevent the further production of virgin plastic, that will make a large environmental impact in the long run,” Hart says. “Same for bioplastics,” she adds. “Biodegradable and recyclable bioplastics will evolve to become more prevalent once there is a greater infrastructure to support more industrial composting and recycling facilities. Science around sustainable materials is more prolific than the availability of these facilities. This, and a greater pipeline of biomaterials at a competitive price point.” *Robin Whitlock is an England-based freelance journalist specializing in environmental issues, climate change, and renewable energy, with a variety of other professional interests, including green transportation.

Monthly Report Highlights Export and Import Trends for Soybean and Palm Oil The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service provides monthly updates on the global trade, production, consumption, and stocks of key oilseeds. USDA’s March 2024 update to their “Oilseeds: World Markets and Trade” report highlights trends in soybean, palm, rapeseed, and other commodities. Brazil had the highest soybean oilseed exports of 100 million metric tons in 2022/2023. This is projected to increase by 3 million to 103 million metric tons in 2023/2024. Meanwhile, China had the highest soybean oilseed imports of 102 million metric tons in 2022/2023, mostly from Brazil and the United States. Imports are also projected to increase by 3 million to 105 million metric tons in 2023/2024. The projected US season-average farm price for soybeans is $12.65 per bushel. A metric ton of soybean, soybean meal, and soybean oil requires 36.74 bushels, 42.08 bushels, and 206 bushels of soybeans, respectively. Meanwhile, March 2024 export prices of US soybean, soybean meal, and soybean oil per metric ton have decreased to $449, $399, and $1,067, respectively. These are decreases of $18, $31, and $12, respectively, from February 2024. The countries with the highest palm oil production and exports are Indonesia and Malaysia. They produced 47 million metric tons and 19 million metric tons, respectively, for February 2023/2024. Exports were 28.2 million metric tons and 16.2 million metric tons, respectively, in February 2023/2024. Meanwhile, India and China have the highest imports of palm oil, at 9.3 million metric tons and 6.4 million tons, respectively, in February 2023/2024. Canada is the highest exporter of rapeseed products, most notably 7.954 million metric tons of rapeseed oilseed in 2022/2023. This is projected to decrease to 7.55 million metric tons in 2023/2024. China and India have the highest production and consumption of peanut oil and cottonseed oil, while the European Union has the highest production and consumption of olive oil. Meanwhile, the United States as a single country has the highest olive oil import and consumption, at 371,000 metric tons and 374,000 metric tons in 2022/2023, respectively. Note: 1 metric ton ≈ 1.10 tons (about 2,200 lbs) Sources: https://apps.fas.usda.gov/psdonline/circulars/oilseeds.pdf https://ussec.org/resources/conversion-table/

More Studies Needed to Quell a Hot Topic *By Julie Peterson Kitchens around the world use cooking oil for sautéing, baking, and drizzling. Home cooks often keep several types of oils on hand, due to flavor, smoke point, and cost. But some cooks may not realize there is a boiling debate about some of these oils. Chefs, health coaches, and scientists are arguing about the possibility that seed oils—such as safflower, cottonseed, grapeseed, sunflower, and canola or rapeseed—might be unhealthy. Studies are still underway, so clearer answers to the heated debate are likely to appear in the foreseeable future. In the meantime, here are some details to make the topic easier to swallow. The Skinny on Fats First, it is important to understand fat. Human bodies require fat from food to survive. Fat provides energy, assists with absorption of vitamins and minerals, plays a role in building cell membranes and the sheaths around nerves, and is necessary for muscle function and blood clotting. But some fats might also cause harm. Trans fats are created when oils are processed to prevent spoilage. Trans fats are created when oils are processed to prevent spoilage. The resulting products include some margarines, shortening, commercial baking oils, and fast-food frying oil. Because trans fats were correlated with heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, the World Health Organization in 2018 called for their global elimination. As of 2023, 43 countries have agreed to minimize the use of trans fats. Saturated fats come from animals (butter, lard, processed meats, and fatty meats) as well as some plants (coconut and palm). They are typically solid at room temperature. Saturated fats have been linked to increased cholesterol and arterial blockage. There is evidence that replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats reduces the risk of heart disease. Unsaturated fats are thought to be best for health. They fall into two categories: monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. Monounsaturated fats were discovered to be healthful after the “Seven Countries Study” in the 1960s showed that people in the Mediterranean had low incidence of heart disease despite high-fat diets. The conclusion was that meals built around monounsaturated fats and low saturated fats help protect a person’s heart by maintaining levels of good (HDL) cholesterol while reducing levels of bad (LDL) cholesterol. Some of the plant oils with this profile come from olives, peanuts, rapeseed (canola), and safflower seeds. the “Seven Countries Study” in the 1960s showed that people in the Mediterranean had low incidence of heart disease despite high-fat diets. Polyunsaturated fats can provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which human bodies cannot produce but need. Oils that provide ample omega-3 include canola, flaxseed, soy (commonly called vegetable oil), and walnut. Omega-3 fatty acids may lower triglycerides and risk of cardiovascular disease. Omega-6 fatty acids are highest in corn, cottonseed, peanut, soybean, and sunflower oils. Omega-6 may lower bad cholesterol, increase good cholesterol, lower triglycerides, and help control blood sugar. All oils are 100% fat, but each has a different fat profile. The Sizzling Debate Over Seed Oils Critics today argue seed oils are implicated in unwanted weight gain, heart problems, infertility, cancer, and acne—and that they contain toxins that could increase the tendency for Alzheimer’s. Oil seeds are often harvested from genetically modified crops. The lands on which the farms are growing the crops have sometimes been deforested. Most of the farms use pesticides. The list of additional complaints associated with seed oils is long. Oil seeds are often harvested from genetically modified crops. The lands on which the farms are growing the crops have sometimes been deforested. Most of the farms use pesticides, which are harmful to beneficial insects and birds. Even when organic, monoculture crops stunt biodiversity. Another argument against seed oils is that elevated levels of omega-6 fatty acids can cause chronic inflammation when not balanced by omega-3s. According to Cleveland Clinic registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, “If a certain food is high in oils that contain a lot of omega-6s, you really want to try to avoid them or eat them only in moderation.” Opponents are wary that seed oils are derived through a chemical oil extraction method to yield more oil (and more profit). The oils are heavily refined, heated, bleached, deodorized, and degummed to be usable. The concern is that extensive processing may cause the oils to be susceptible to oxidation and breakdown, which might result in disease-causing free radicals building up in the body. In addition, various chemical solvents are used for extraction of the oil and residues of these may remain. The high temperature refining process also destroys any beneficial vitamins, phenols, and antioxidants. “When you bring unsaturated fats repeatedly to high temperatures, you’ll get a buildup of damaging chemicals,” Guy Crosby, Ph.D., an adjunct associate professor of nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, has expressed concern about seed oils being heated many times. “When you bring unsaturated fats repeatedly to high temperatures, you’ll get a buildup of damaging chemicals,” he says, adding that this is likely only to be a problem in restaurants and factories that use deep fryers. “Cooking with seed oils at home isn’t an issue,” he says. Proponents of seed oils counter that, in small amounts, seed oils are part of a healthy diet and a necessary source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Seed oils also offer a range of flavor profiles and culinary uses. Seed oil fans note that the studies linking seed oils to adverse health conditions, like heart disease, were conducted on small animals. To date, there are no clinical trials to substantiate that these claims hold true for humans. A 2021 study published in the MDPI journal Nutrients, even associated moderate intake of omega-6 linoleic acid to lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Seed oil supporters also point out that the oil cannot be blamed when it is part of another product. Seed oil supporters also point out that the oil cannot be blamed when it is part of another product. “When you cut seed oils from your diet, what you’re really doing is cutting out many processed foods,” Zumpano says. “I think that’s why we’re hearing about them as being so bad for your health. But it’s less about the seed oils themselves and more about the fact that they’re so often found in ultra-processed foods.” In addition, there’s even concern about “heating oils to high temperature.” For instance, flax, hemp, and chia oils should never be heated as they have low smoke points. Other oils, such as sunflower and safflower, can be heated to high temperatures without harm (and perhaps most importantly, without combusting). It is worth doing research to find the right oil for the job by looking at the smoke point of each oil. Cold-pressed seed oils processed without heat or chemicals are on the market along with sustainably harvested, non-GMO oils. Need an Oil Change? First, check the oil. The optimal daily amount of oil is about 2 Tbsp in a 2,000-calorie diet. Read food ingredient labels and see how much oil is in packaged foods. Then, make decisions. There are different oils for frying, baking, and dipping to avoid setting the kitchen on fire and to obtain desired flavor. If chemical extraction and highly processed oils are worrisome, pay more for cold extracted, pressed, and unrefined oils. The debate over seed oils will likely sizzle until clinical trials provide scientific evidence to inform people of the health effects of these oils. The debate over seed oils will likely sizzle until clinical trials provide scientific evidence to inform people of the health effects of these oils. If the lack of research on seed oils is daunting, there are fruit, nut, and animal oils that have been better researched and can round out a cooking repertoire. For even more information on shopping for and using oils, “The New World of Cooking Oils” published in Consumer Reports Magazine does a deep dive on how and when to get the best deals. Homemade Oils There is no need for shopping tips for those who make their own oils at home! (Don’t make that face, people have been doing it for 8,000 years!) Fortunately, modern kitchen machines make it a breeze. Manual oil presses are less than $100. Electric expeller presses start at around $200. No matter where anyone looks, there is conflicting information on oils, but dietary fats are essential for body functions. Spend some time in the oil aisle and try a healthy, new ingredient. Recipes: Fried Green Tomatoes 4-5 servings This refreshing early season recipe is a delicious lunch or side dish. Substitute lemon-pepper for the chili powder for a less spicy, tangy flavor. Ingredients 4 medium, firm green tomatoes salt 1 cup flour of choice 1 Tbsp chili powder 1 tsp paprika ½ cup milk of choice 1 egg 1/3 cup fine cornmeal ½ cup crushed crackers of choice ¼ cup peanut oil Process Slice tomatoes into ½ inch slices and sprinkle each with salt. Set aside. Use 3 shallow bowls for dredging. In bowl 1, mix flour and seasoning. In bowl 2, whisk milk and egg. In bowl 3, combine cornmeal and crackers. Heat the oil in a skillet on medium heat. Dip the tomato slices in the flour, then the egg, then the cornmeal. Place as many slices as will fit in one layer in the pan and fry for 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until brown and crispy. Drain on a towel. Enjoy. Roasted Tri-Color Carrots A flexible and tasty recipe. Make as much as will fit on your baking sheet. You won’t mind having leftovers. The sugar in the carrots caramelizes and will make a carrot lover out of anyone. Tri-color carrots aren’t necessary but the flavors are more interesting. Process Rinse carrots, cut in half, and then slice lengthwise into thin sticks. Drizzle grapeseed oil on baking sheet. Place carrots in one layer and drizzle oil on carrots. Season lightly with salt, basil flakes, and garlic powder (or preferred seasoning). Roast in oven at 425F for 20 minutes or until slightly browned. Serve as a side dish or snack. Refrigerate leftovers (they are good cold, too). *Julie Peterson is a freelance journalist based in the Midwest region of the US who has written hundreds of articles on natural approaches to health, environmental issues, and sustainable living.

More People Have Electricity and Drinking Water, But More Progress is Needed In line with World Water Day 2024, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) released the UN World Water Development Report for 2024. The report explains how access to clean water, sanitation and other services are essential for security, peace and prosperity. Freshwater use has been growing very slowly—by just under 1% per year—with industrial use (about 17%) and domestic use (about 12%) the main drivers of the increase. Energy production is included in industrial use and accounts for about 10% of the 17% usage. Agriculture accounts for about 70% of global freshwater use. A nation’s income predicts how water is used: Higher-income countries use more water for industry and domestic needs and a lower percentage for agriculture. But in low-income nations, almost 90% of freshwater is used for agriculture. Between 2012 and 2019, the number of people without access to electricity dropped by about 500 million, but progress has since stagnated. In 2021, about 675 million people lacked access to electricity, including 567 million people who live in Sub-Saharan Africa. As of 2022, 2.2 billion people (1.3 billion in rural areas and 0.9 billion in urban areas) were without access to safely managed drinking water. This is down from 2015, when 2.3 billion people (1.5 billion in rural areas and 0.8 billion in urban areas) lacked such access. Also as of 2022, 3.5 billion people (1.9 billion in rural areas and 1.6 billion in urban areas) lacked access to safely managed sanitation services. This 0.3 billion decrease—from 3.8 billion people in 2015—is due to more people in rural areas getting access to such services. “Natured-based solutions” are advocated to counter climate change. Without these interventions, the report said that by 2030, 150 million people a year could need humanitarian assistance due to floods, droughts, and storms. This could rise to 200 million people per year by 2050. Source: https://www.unesco.org/reports/wwdr/en/2024/download

*By Rick Laezman Reducing carbon emissions from transportation has become one of the primary fronts in the battle against greenhouse gas emissions. The effort involves much more than just transitioning to electric vehicles. Transportation is a vast sector of commerce that includes many industries, such as air travel, railroads, and vehicle fleets. All of them are undergoing changes to incorporate cleaner fuels and reduce carbon emissions. The decarbonization effort has even reached the high seas, with many factors driving changes in cargo shipping. Adoption of new fuels is accelerating to reduce emissions and steer the industry onto a “greener” course. Currents of Change According to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, the transportation sector is one of the world's biggest contributors of greenhouse emissions, at 15% of the total. That is second only to electricity and heat, which account for 31%. Within the transportation sector, international shipping accounts for 2% to 3% of global energy-related CO2 emissions, and it is facing pressure on numerous fronts to reduce its output of greenhouse gases. In addition to popular pressure and regulations from individual countries, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the UN agency that is responsible for the shipping industry, has adopted new strategies and standards that are regulating the industry. Using 2008 emissions as a baseline, the [International Maritime Organization’s] new regulations call for a reduction of at least 20%, but striving for 30%, by the year 2030. Using 2008 emissions as a baseline, the new regulations call for a reduction of at least 20%, but striving for 30%, by the year 2030. Similarly, the regulations call for a reduction of at least 70%, but striving for 80%, by the year 2040. Green Fuels and the Shipping Industry Each industry within the travel sector, including cars, trains, and airplanes, must navigate a different path to become green. Each of these paths is defined by the unique characteristics and limitations of the industries themselves. In the shipping industry, several factors including the size of the vessels, the power needed to propel them, and the paths they travel, make a transition to electric-powered ships impractical. According to a white paper from the market research firm, DNV, the primary challenge facing the maritime industry is its inability to easily electrify propulsion. In deep-sea shipping, “batteries alone are not an adequate substitute for combustible energy sources.” In other words, there aren’t going to be fleets of electrified shipping vessels any time soon. To cut carbon emissions, a more practical option for the industry will be transitioning to alternative fuels. DNV projects the shipping industry to meet the IMO’s target through a combination of measures. It will require a shift to low- and zero-carbon fuels. These include liquified natural gas (LNG), liquified petroleum gas (LPG), methanol, hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuel. LNG, liquified natural gas, consisting mainly of methane and some ethane, is considered a less polluting alternative to fossil fuels, and is gaining acceptance. At the top of the list, LNG, consisting mainly of methane and some ethane, is considered a less polluting alternative to fossil fuels, and is gaining acceptance. Trailing behind but gaining traction, methane and ammonia are even less polluting alternatives, but they face their own challenges related to availability and safety. New Builds Going Green Transitioning to cleaner burning fuels will require a major change in the industry because most ships are not equipped to run on alternative fuels. The World Resources Institute (WRI) notes that most commercial shipping vessels currently run on heavy fuel oil. It is well-suited to the industry because the fuel is inexpensive and its high energy density sustains ships for long distances across the ocean, but it raises concern of sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. 50% of new ships ordered in 2023 included alternative fuel capacity, compared with only 7% of ships currently operating in the industry. To decarbonize, the industry appears to be embracing the challenge of transitioning away from this polluting fuel. The number of orders for new ships to be built with alternative fuel burning technology is rising. DNV notes in its white paper that 50% of new ships ordered in 2023 included alternative fuel capacity, compared with only 7% of ships currently operating in the industry. The types of vessels that are being built reveal which fuels are emerging as the most promising to help the industry’s transition to zero emissions. For example, in January of this year, the global shipping giant, Maersk, announced it had built “the world's first large methanol-enabled container vessel.” The “Ane Maersk,” named after Ane Mærsk Mc-Kinney Uggla, a prominent member of the Maersk family, is the first in a series of 18 large methanol-enabled vessels that the company will deliver between 2024 and 2025. Methanol is not the only option. Last year, Finnish maritime technology developer Wartsila announced  commercial production of its Wartsila 25 Ammonia, that the company describes as the world's “first 4-stroke ammonia powered engine.” While methanol and ammonia are still in the early stages of adoption, LNG remains the leading alternative to fossil fuels in the shipping industry. According to the maritime services company, Lloyd’s  Register, new orders in 2023 are projected to increase the fleet of LNG-fueled ships by 90% to 1,938 vessels. The Undertow of Alternative Fuels If shipping companies appear to be embracing a future with alternative fuels, it remains to be seen which of these fuels will emerge as the best choice. Each has its own benefits and limitations. At this stage, LNG appears to have the strongest competitive advantage. According to DNV, about 90% of ships in the current global fleet powered by alternative fuels are powered by LNG. Its share of new ships on order is slightly less, meaning that other fuels are gaining ground, but it still represents an overwhelmingly dominant share of the total, at about 78%. The disadvantages for LNG are methane leakages during production, transportation, and storage, because the gas has an even greater warming effect than carbon dioxide (CO2). The disadvantages for LNG are methane leakages during production, transportation, and storage, because the gas has an even greater warming effect than carbon dioxide (CO2). The WRI notes that when accounting for leakages from LNG burning engines, this can cancel out, and in some cases even exceed, the carbon reductions achieved by LNG that make it an attractive alternative in the first place. Methanol faces a different set of challenges. According to Lloyd's Register, the biggest challenge facing the widespread adoption of this fuel in the shipping industry is the lack of sufficient storage space. Because it has a lower energy density than other fuels, it requires more fuel to generate the same amount of power. This necessitates larger space to store enough fuel to supply shipping vessels on their long journeys. Additionally, some methods of generating methanol, such as those using natural gas, are not considered green because they also can leak methane, a harmful heat-trapping gas. Other green methods do exist. For example, methanol can be generated through a process that combines electricity from renewable power, electrolysis of water to create hydrogen, and a catalytic reaction with captured carbon dioxide. However, these greener methods are expensive and have not been developed to a scale that can fully power the shipping industry. Ammonia may emerge as the leading fuel source for the shipping industry. It produces no carbon emissions from combustion. Finally, ammonia may emerge as the leading fuel source for the shipping industry. It produces no carbon emissions from combustion. When renewable energy is used to create the necessary elements for ammonia, hydrogen and nitrogen, the entire cycle is completely green, or carbon-free. As is the case with all other fuels, there is a drawback. Ammonia's main disadvantage is its high toxicity. The chemical is dangerous to humans and to marine life, and spills, leaks, and exposure can be hazardous. For it to become a practical alternative fuel for shipping, the industry will need to develop the proper technology and protocols to address these safety concerns. NOx emissions from combustion are also a concern. Sailing into Headwinds Another challenge facing the use of clean fuel alternatives is the adaptability of the world's existing fleet of ships. According to DNV, “only a small part of the existing fleet is currently able to run on alternative fuels.” Most ships are not equipped to burn alternative fuels, so they will have to be retrofitted or replaced by newly built ships with the proper technology. This will require major investments. The good news, DNV reports, is that “a rapidly increasing proportion of new ships are being ordered with alternative fuels.” As noted above, most of these are for LNG, but DNV says many shipowners are “keeping their options open” by ordering vessels ready to be retrofitted to alternative fuels, such as "methanol ready" or "ammonia ready." Many considerations go into the design of new ships or the retrofit of existing ships to burn on alternative fuels. These considerations span the entire supply chain, beginning with the sourcing and production of the fuel; its transport; ground-based fuel storage in bunkers; storage in tanks on board the vessels; the type of engine that can run on a particular fuel; plus, emissions, leaks, spills, and other safety factors. The shipping industry does have even more options. For example, carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an evolving technology that captures the CO2 emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels and stores it for other uses. CCS is being developed for various land-based applications and can be used on board maritime vessels. CCS will enable shipping to continue using fossil fuels while reducing its carbon emissions. It is being applied as a temporary “transitional technology” to help shipping reduce its carbon footprint while the industry makes the transition to long-term solutions involving alternative fuels. However, like alternative fuels, CCS is a developing technology that involves a significant expense, it also competes for usable space on maritime vessels; an area dedicated to a CCS installation is an area that can’t be used for the cargo that generates revenue for the ship's operator. The Slow Turning Gears of Decarbonization International shipping is doing its part to reduce carbon emissions. The process is long, slow, and expensive. Ship owners are responding to expectations that they decarbonize by retrofitting existing ships and ordering new builds that can run on alternative fuels. Many promising alternatives could help power the industry into a zero-carbon future. However, none of these is ready to transform the industry by itself or in the near term. For now, change will come incrementally and through a mixed bag of solutions working together to help shipping transition away from carbon-emitting fossil fuels. *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.

Report Highlights Projected Increases of Uncontrolled Waste into 2050 In February, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), with the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), released the Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 report, which offers projections on global waste generation, costs, and management for municipal solid waste (MSW, excluding industrial waste). Here, “controlled waste” refers to waste that is collected and either properly disposed of or recycled. “Uncontrolled waste” refers to either uncollected waste that is dumped or burned in the open or collected waste that is dumped or burned at its final destination. Some 2.7 billion people (700,000 from urban areas and 2 billion from rural areas) do not have their waste collected. If no urgent actions are taken, global MSW generation per year is projected to steadily increase, from 2.126 billion tons in 2020 to 3.782 billion tons in 2050. The total global cost of MSW in a “waste management as usual” scenario is projected to increase from $361.0 billion in 2020 to $640.3 billion in 2050 Out of the 2.126 billion tons in 2020, 38% (about 805 million tons) was uncontrolled and 62% (about 1.32 billion tons) was controlled. Among controlled waste, 48.5% (about 641.2 million tons) was landfilled, 30.6% (about 404.2 million tons) was recycled, and 20.8% (about 274.8 million tons) were converted to energy. The global share of uncontrolled waste is projected to rise from 38% in 2020 to 41.5% in 2050. However, over three decades, the actual amount of uncontrolled waste is projected to almost double from about 805 million tons to 1.57 billion tons annually. Globally, the average MSW collection rate is 75%. In Western countries, this rate is very high—93% to 99%—while rates are considerably lower in Sub-Saharan Africa (36%), Central and South Asia (37%), and Oceania (45%). The three lowest regions of MSW collection also have the highest uncontrolled waste as percentage of total MSW. These are Sub-Saharan Africa (87%), Central and South Asia (79%), and Oceania (62%). Europe leads the world in MSW recycling, thanks to Western Europe’s 56% rate. Northern and Southern Europe are third and fourth at 42% and 44%, respectively. However, Australia and New Zealand are second at 54% recycling rates. Northern Europe also has the highest MSW waste-to-energy conversion rate of 42%. Sources: https://www.unep.org/resources/global-waste-management-outlook-2024 Full report: https://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/44939/global_waste_management_outlook_2024.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y Executive summary: https://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/44992/GWMO2024-Executive-summary.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

But Home Filtration Devices Can Raise Water Purity By Alina Bradford* Ever poured a glass of tap water and wondered about its purity? While tap water in many areas is considered safe to drink, contaminants can still lurk within it, posing health risks. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), residential tap water can include arsenic, copper, lead, nitrate, and radon, as well as E. coli, Hepatitis A virus, and salmonella. Here’s what one needs to know about tap water and how to make it safer to drink. What is in US Tap Water? Tap water can contain a variety of contaminants, including toxic substances, inorganic compounds, bacteria, metals, and microplastics. These can originate from agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, outdated plumbing, and even natural sources. Contaminants in drinking water can cause a variety of health problems, including blood disorders, low IQ, gastrointestinal issues, neurological disorders, and cancer. Many people get water from public water systems (PWS), which are regulated by the EPA, and include fluoridated community water supplies (CWS). The highest and lowest percentages of people receiving fluoridated water to total population served by CWS are the District of Columbia (100%) and Hawaii (8.5%), respectively, based on 2020 data. A study by the US Geological Survey reveals that up to 45% of the country's tap water may contain one or more varieties of chemicals called per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS. Perhaps more disturbing, over 12,000 types of PFAS have been identified, and current testing methods can only detect a fraction of them. Recently, the EPA announced a proposal to lower the maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) of six specific PFAS allowed in drinking water. A study by the US Geological Survey reveals that up to 45% of the country's tap water may contain one or more varieties of chemicals called per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS. A 2023 study took water samples from 38 lakes in 23 different countries on six continents and found that all contained microplastics. This can be concerning since a large portion of drinking water comes from lakes. How is Tap Water Treated? Before water flows from the tap, it undergoes several treatment processes to remove impurities and make it safe for consumption. These typically include coagulation and flocculation to clump particles together, sedimentation to allow particles to settle, filtration to remove small particles, and disinfection to kill bacteria and viruses. While effective, these methods have limitations, particularly against some modern contaminants, such as PFAS and micro/nano-plastics. [Water treatment] typically include[s] coagulation and flocculation to clump particles together, sedimentation to allow particles to settle, filtration to remove small particles, and disinfection to kill bacteria and viruses. While effective, these methods have limitations, particularly against some modern contaminants, such as PFAS and micro/nano-plastics. Coagulation and Flocculation The first steps in the water treatment process involve adding chemicals with a positive charge to the water. This causes some contaminants like dirt and iron to combine into larger particles. The next process is called flocculation. It stirs the water, causing particles to bind together into larger particles, known as flocs. Coagulation and flocculation processes effectively remove particles and sediments but do not remove dissolved substances or microorganisms. Sedimentation Following flocculation, the water moves to sedimentation tanks, where the heavy flocs settle to the bottom due to gravity. Sedimentation is efficient for settling out large particles. However, smaller particles and dissolved substances may not be removed through this process alone. Filtration Coagulation and sedimentation can only remove between 27% and 84% of viruses and 32% and 87% of bacteria, so the process continues. After sedimentation, the clear water on top will pass through various filters. These can include sand, gravel, and charcoal filters. The effectiveness of filtration depends on the type of filters used. While it can remove many contaminants, including parasites and some bacteria, some viruses and chemical pollutants may pass through, especially if the filters are not properly maintained. Disinfection Before the water is sent through the distribution system to consumer taps, it is disinfected to kill any remaining bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Treatment plants typically use chemical disinfectants like chlorine or chloramine for water disinfection. Most chemical disinfectants are removed from the water before it goes out to the customer. Still, some are left to disinfect the water further as it’s moved through potentially contaminated pipes. The CDC says drinking water is safe with chlorine levels of up to 4 milligrams per liter (or ppm) and chloramine levels of less than 50 milligrams per liter. However, tap water can contain even tinier amounts—for example, normal chloramine levels in drinking water range from 1.0 to 4.0 milligrams per liter. Some water treatment plants use UV light and ozone to disinfect drinking water. However, these methods don’t continue disinfecting the water when it passes through contaminated pipes. Although disinfection effectively kills pathogens, it can leave behind harmful by-products. For example, chlorine can react with organic matter in water to form trihalomethanes (THMs), which are associated with cancer risks. Furthermore, some pathogens, like Cryptosporidium, are resistant to traditional disinfection methods like chlorination. Home Water Filtration Options Water treatment effectively eliminates a large portion of potentially harmful contaminants. However, on occasions, they still get through due to contaminated pipes and other problems. How can one ensure tap water is free from these contaminants? Home water filtration systems can play an important part in making drinking water as safe as possible. Here are some options: Activated charcoal/carbon adsorption: This method removes organic compounds, chlorine, and chlorine by-products. Filters like pitcher filters and under-sink units commonly use activated carbon. However, they don’t remove hard water minerals or some bacteria unless certified. Membrane-based filters: These filters, often used in reverse osmosis systems, are typically composed of thin, porous materials that can trap and remove a wide range of impurities, including bacteria and viruses. While highly effective, they require more maintenance than other filters and can be costly. They are also typically used with activated carbon to remove chlorine, fluoride, and other contaminants. Specialty filters: Some filters target specific contaminants, such as lead or arsenic. Specialty filters can also be used to add minerals back to water after filtration, such as alkaline filters. Considerations for Choosing a Filter When selecting a water filtration system, consider the specific contaminants in the water, the system's maintenance requirements, and household water usage. No single filter removes all pollutants, so a combination of systems that provides maximum protection may be considered. NSF-certified filters are listed in the NSF’s database, which indicates what the filter can clean out of the water and what it can’t. Also, make sure that the filter is NSF-certified. NSF-certified filters are listed in the NSF’s database, which indicates what the filter can clean out of the water and what it can’t. Don’t forget to get a filter for each source of one’s home’s drinking water. Here are some options: Whole-house filtration: This system treats water as it comes into the house. It filters all of the home’s water, not just drinking water. Whole-house systems can be pricey, though. Under-sink filtration: These attach to the plumbing under the kitchen sink to provide clean water from the tap. DIY installation is possible, but some homeowners may find it difficult. Faucet-mounted filters: These filters attach to the kitchen faucet and are simple to install. While they are inexpensive compared to whole-house or under-sink filters, they could slow down the water pressure. Water bottle or pitcher filtration: These are the cheapest and most convenient filtration options. Once filled with water, the built-in filters clean the water. The main problem with bottle or pitcher filtration is that it can be slow and the filters may need frequent replacement. Refrigerator filters: Don’t forget to make sure the filter on the refrigerator’s in-door water dispenser gets a filter change on a regular basis. Understanding tap water's treatment processes and the potential contaminants that can remain is key to ensuring that residential water is safe to drink. By choosing the appropriate water filtration system, the risk of consuming harmful contaminants can be significantly reduced. *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.

Local Energy Production Builds Sustainable Neighborhoods By Robert Cuzner* Reliable electrical energy is increasingly being seen as a basic human right, and this perspective is driving significant shifts in the way electrical energy is being generated, transmitted, and used. Climate change and extreme weather events can increase disruptions to electrical power service with very personal consequences. At one extreme, power outages impact daily life when there’s a lack of connection to a reliable power grid, while at the other extreme, increased electrical demands on aging electrical grid infrastructures raise the risks for outages. Interspersed with these challenges are the varying human needs and attitudes of electricity users across a range of socioeconomic issues and disparities. Examples include the disproportionate fixed cost of electricity to low-income households, growth in electric vehicle (EV) charging needs, critical community facilities (e.g. hospitals, fire protection, water treatment and schools), vulnerable manufacturing facilities, and the range of household and community commitments to reducing their carbon footprint. Community microgrids tailored to meet shared, localized needs can solve these challenges. The Community Microgrid The microgrid is a small electrical grid that serves electricity needs within a defined boundary using local sources of supply. This defined electrical boundary can include neighborhoods, a campus, a village, a town, or multiples thereof, where the electricity users live, work, and perform services together, in which case the microgrid expands to a community microgrid. Today, the microgrid can address a community need to reduce its carbon emissions through the efficient use of renewable and stored energy resources. It may operate connected to or disconnected (“islanded”) from the grid. In remote areas, where energy poverty impacts survival, community microgrids have emerged as a possible solution. In remote areas, where energy poverty impacts survival, community microgrids have emerged as a possible solution. In India, for example, the deployment of microgrids to villages on mountains, in deserts, and on islands has outpaced the government’s efforts to tie these communities to the national grid. A Sense of Energy Supply Ownership A community microgrid gives participants a sense of control and ownership over their energy supply, and not only serves individual households but also the needs of the community. The greatest benefits are derived as the households learn how to interact with the microgrid and become aware of how their daily habits impact energy usage. The neighborhood microgrid is a “behind the meter” (quasi off-the-grid) where consumers of electrical energy are also producers, or prosumers, producing a net benefit to its users both individually and collectively. Such systems achieve a smart grid that forces cooperative use of rooftop solar and energy storage units that are distributed among participating households. Among the factors for the most favorable neighborhood microgrid implementations, the number of participating households is key. Case studies show current favorable effects range from 20 to 200 homes. Weather and geographic location play a role as well, with implementations in a Mediterranean climate being the most favorable. Neighborhood Microgrid Challenges Nevertheless, the feasibility of a purely “behind the meter” or neighborhood microgrid is challenging, given the human factor and the all-important question: Who will shoulder the costs of installation and maintenance? Rules regarding net energy metering impose constraints on the size (and beneficiaries) of a microgrid; utilities must deal with the consequences of possible sub-standard implementations that interact in a negative way with the utility grid, with rules varying by state, such as in California. The feasibility of a neighborhood microgrid is challenging, given the human factor and the all-important question: Who will shoulder the costs of installation and maintenance? Even so, motivation for planned installations, such as “all-electric neighborhoods” in California are coming from mandated building codes. Recently, facilitators for large-scale community microgrid deployments, such as the Clean-Coalition, are advocating for “front of the meter” approaches that connect neighborhoods with commercial properties, essential community services, and include utility-focused partnerships. Utility partnership or ownership allows users to pay for electricity through their utility, making microgrid ownership and operation more transparent. A successful example of neighborhood ownership and sustainment is the 37-home pilot project installed within the Medley at Southshore Bay residential development in Wimauma, Florida. This microgrid is utility owned and operated and is built upon an electrical system developed and installed by a Tampa, Florida, company, BlockEnergy. Neighborhood microgrid installations will become more ubiquitous when the most expensive components, such as energy storage, are utility owned and when usage includes community service providers (such as schools, hospitals, fire departments, etc.) and commercial properties. In this way, costs and benefits are spread across a more diverse group of stakeholders. Installation Energy Security Community microgrids can play a significant role in achieving Installation Energy Security. Energy security depends on three pillars: reliability, resilience, and efficiency (see Figure 1). Efficiency The efficiency pillar includes what has been mentioned already: more efficient use of the electrical energy generated by environmentally friendly resources minimizes the detrimental impacts of fossil fuels increasingly being manifested through extreme weather events. These accelerate the pace of community microgrid adoption as a necessary solution—and here the other two pillars come into play. Reliability Reliability has to do with a service or a product functioning as expected as long as it is being used in the manner for which it was designed. Reliability of electric power means an electricity user can expect to receive uninterrupted service unless there is a disturbance causing voltage and/or current to stray outside of designed (rated or nominal) parameters. However, there is a caveat—"for the life of the product.” As electrical grids age, their components—cable insulation, circuit breakers, and so forth—are weakened and become less reliable. The aging electrical grid infrastructure, costs to upgrade, and increasing consumer demands leads to a weakening of the grid’s ability to provide stable and clean voltage power to its customers. The aging electrical grid infrastructure, costs to upgrade, and increasing consumer demands leads to a weakening of the grid’s ability to provide stable and clean voltage power to its customers. Electricity is distributed through a grid within a specific geographic area. Patterns of ownership and operation vary depending upon the country and the level of government involvement in electricity generation and distribution. In the U.S., this grid is owned and operated by local utilities. Distribution voltages are typically in the tens of thousands of volts. Sometimes, power must be delivered to customers that are far from the generation source, and customers in rural areas often find themselves at a weak end of the distribution grid. The weak grid problem is exacerbated by sudden shifts in loads that cause voltage dips and spikes. Lights may dim or buzz, or circuit breakers may trip unexpectedly, leading to the loss of essential life-sustaining services. A locally focused community microgrid is a solution for communities who dislike being at the weak ends of the grid. Resilience Resilience, another pillar of Installation Energy Security, addresses any disturbance or event that could endanger human lives or damage equipment if electrical power is not immediately removed, or isolated from affected or damaged parts of the system. Community microgrids interface with energy utility electricity transmission through a utility substation. Transmission has to do with the transfer of electrical energy over much longer distances, and the voltage levels are hundreds of thousands of volts (high voltage). This is mentioned because future community microgrids will expand the definition of community beyond the neighborhood, city, and municipality. An example of a great need for resilience is the Goleta Load Pocket, a 70-mile area along the Southern California coastline that is highly vulnerable to power loss. Communities along the Goleta Load Pocket are served by just one set of transmission lines hung on the same transmission towers and routed through 40 miles of mountainous terrain. This is a disaster-prone region that has been subject to extreme weather events in recent years. A community microgrid solution—the Goleta Load Pocket Community Microgrid (GLPCM)—has been proposed that would interconnect planned and existing microgrids, energy storage, and solar PV installations in Goleta Load Pocket communities. Development of this multi-city microgrid is still in progress and is actively moving forward thanks to the efforts of Clean-Coalition. Figure 2 shows a concept for a resilient community microgrid that interconnects multiple installations through either direct interconnection within a local community or through utility substation connections across multiple communities. All these implementations share common features, such as a standardized approach to microgrid building blocks, that can be installed as the community grows. Each microgrid building block has localized controls and communications with proactive capabilities to learn from its environment and increase its resilience over time. It also has an autonomous reconfiguration capability so that if a power outage appears imminent, power can be automatically re-routed to keep the lights on. Each microgrid building block has localized controls and communications with proactive capabilities to learn from its environment and increase its resilience over time. Figure 3 shows an example of how the system would respond to an extreme weather event that, without this community microgrid concept, would result in losses of power to large sections of the serviced area. The system is self-learning and self-healing. Individual microgrid building blocks (the microgrid sub-stations) can “island” or disconnect themselves from the rest of the network and provide extended electrical service to the part of the community it services while repairs are being made. The system determines what actions to take by receiving information from its nearest neighbor through high-speed communications with adjacently connected sub-systems and by coordinating with the energy utility. If communication networks are damaged, the system can use the information that it has to make the best decision as to which switches to open and what changes to make to its connection with its participants. Adoptability and Sustainability Public policy is key to building microgrids. Clean-Coalition provides a good example of an organization that not only designs and stages cutting-edge community microgrid projects, but is also involved in commissioning these installations and showcasing their value and feasibility. They are also involved in addressing barriers and gathering stakeholders through their work on public policy. At the same time, utility-focused partnerships in project development and a “front of the meter” approach addresses long-term sustainability. Otherwise, individualized project endeavors (and even public-private partnerships with a community) can become subject to the hidden costs of maintenance contracts from commercial vendors of these systems. Obsolescence is an issue, as well. Of course, microgrid developers are an essential element, but the more replicable and plug-and-play these systems become, the greater their market will become. Technological innovations, partnerships, and policy are all essential to the deployment of sustainable energy secure community microgrids. With each new community microgrid project, the way forward becomes clearer. *Robert Cuzner is Richard and Joanne Grigg Associate Professor for the Electrical Engineering Department at the University of Milwaukee, Wisconsin (UWM), the Director of the Center for Sustainable Electrical Energy Systems (SEES), and the UWM Site Director for the GRid-Connected Power Electronic Systems (GRAPES) Industry/University Collaborative Research Center.

Portions of Mexico, the US, and Canada will experience a rare total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, an event attracting broad public interest and launching a host of scientific experiments to study such things as animal behavior during the short-lived daytime darkness. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has set up a special website for the eclipse to provide safety recommendations and important data to assist eclipse- watchers and residents within the narrow band of darkness as it travels northeast across the continent. NASA reports that, with cooperating local weather conditions, Mexico’s Pacific coastline will mark the phenomenon’s North American debut at approximately 11:07 a.m. PDT. After traveling northeastward across portions of Mexico, the eclipse will pass over portions of several US states from Texas to Maine prior to exiting the Atlantic coastline of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT. According to Scientific American, planned coinciding experiments include equipping volunteer citizen scientists with “small, microphone-equipped electronic devices” that will “listen for shifts in animal noises” during the brief period of “false night.” NASA aircraft will take images during the eclipse in hopes of capturing enormous plasma eruptions arising from the Sun’s surface. Engineers and physicists will also be measuring effects on radio wave transmissions resulting from the drop in ionization that occurs when the moon’s shadow passes over an area. Source: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/where-when/

The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)*, founded in Panama in 2012 by the governments of 94 nations, has issued a report estimating that some 37,000 invasive alien species have been introduced worldwide, typically via human activity. The September 2023 report by the independent, 143-member state IPBES [the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) provides secretariat services to IPBES] calls invasive alien species a “major global threat” to the natural world and to human food security, economic development, and health. According to the IPBES’ Assessment Report on Invasive Alien Species and their Control: Invasive alien species are one of the five major drivers of biodiversity loss. More than 3,500 of the 37,000 invasive alien species are “harmful” or “threatening to nature, nature’s contribution to people and good quality of life.” In 2019 alone, the global cost of invasive alien species exceeded $423 billion; costs have quadrupled each decade since 1970. To date, 1,061 alien plants are known to be invasive worldwide, as are 1,852 alien invertebrates (22%), 461 alien vertebrates (14%), and 141 alien microbes (11%). Prof. Anibal Pauchard of Chile, co-chair of the assessment, said that around 218 invasive alien species have been responsible for over 1,200 local extinctions, and 85% of the impacts of alien invasions on native species are negative. About 80% of the documented impacts of invasions on nature’s contributions to people are negative, with the report citing the impact of the European shore crab on commercial shellfish beds in New England as an example. In addition, an estimated 85% of documented impacts (3,208) negatively affect human quality of life, such as the health impacts of malaria, Zika, and West Nile Fever spread by invasive mosquito populations. (The remaining 15% or 575 had positive impacts.) The “world’s most widespread” invasive alien species is the water hyacinth. In Uganda’s Lake Victoria, for instance, the invasive weed has clogged shorelines; blocked access to fishing areas and reduced catches; interrupted electricity from hydropower plants; and encouraged mosquito populations. Sources: https://www.ipbes.net/IASmediarelease https://www.ipbes.net/ *The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is an independent intergovernmental body established by states to strengthen the science-policy interface for biodiversity and ecosystem services for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, long-term human well-being and sustainable development. It was established in Panama City, on April 21, 2012, by 94 Governments. It is not a United Nations body. However, at the request of the IPBES Plenary and with the authorization of the UNEP Governing Council in 2013, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) provides secretariat services to IPBES.

Culinary Pioneer Pays Tribute to Nature By Mark Smith* “In nature I find a friend, a companion, and a mother. My job is to pay tribute to her, to preserve her, and present her to the world.”—Claire Vallée It can be hard to stand out in the culinary world when one hails from a nation synonymous with fine cuisine. But French chef Claire Vallée is a true gastronomic pioneer. Entirely self-taught, her restaurant, ONA, was the first vegan restaurant in France to earn a coveted Michelin star award, and she has become one of the world’s leading advocates for both vegan and sustainable cooking. But her passion for vegan food transcends simple taste and ingredients. It is rooted in spiritualism, philosophy, and a wider fascination with nature itself. A former archaeologist, it is perhaps no surprise that her love of the treasures buried in the Earth helped inspire her culinary creations. But it was a journey to the East that lit the fire of inner discovery that set her on the path to success. Inspired by Temple Cuisine After working as a chef on a catamaran, Vallée journeyed to Thailand in 2012—and things would never be the same again. “It was a revelation,” she told The Earth & I. “I discovered vegetarian cooking through the Buddhist culture. Herbs, roots, spices— nothing escaped my library of tastes, textures, and smells.” “I discovered vegetarian cooking through the Buddhist culture. Herbs, roots, spices—nothing escaped my library of tastes, textures, and smells. I familiarized myself with umami, the famous fifth taste. And I realized that temple cuisine was just as tasty as that on offer in France.” When she returned to France, she settled down in Arès, in Gironde, on the Arcachon Basin, and was hired as a chef in a traditional restaurant. But she quickly realized that that kind of cooking was no longer for her. “I took a deeper interest in animal distress in farms, slaughterhouses, and during transport. I became aware that, in addition to the cruelty inflicted on these sentient beings, there is also the pollution of soil, rivers, and oceans caused by animal dejecta; the deforestation linked to the cultivation of soya to feed these animals; the methane released into the air which contributes to global warming; and the antibiotics and growth hormones injected and which we humans reciprocally ingest by consuming meat and dairy products,” she said. ‘Animal-Free Origin’ Fueled by a desire to do things differently, coupled with the skills she had picked up in the East, Vallée decided to open ONA— which stands for Origine non animale (animal-free origin)—in Arès near Bordeaux. But that would be easier said than done. Mainstream banks thought her dream was a “crazy idea,” so she went about funding things differently. She started a crowdfunding campaign. Some 126 people helped raise €10,000 (about $10,753). That money was pooled with a loan from La Nef, a bank that specializes in lending for ethical projects. She then mobilized a volunteer workforce of painters, masons, electricians, plumbers, gardeners, friends, future customers, strangers, helpers, and local businesses. In less than two months, ONA opened its doors to the public in 2016. Not only did the restaurant serve vegan food from the onset, it used no animal products in its decorations or furnishings and won praise for its commitment to renewable practices. Success soon followed. ONA was named in the Michelin Guide for 2021 and received a Michelin star—a first for a vegan restaurant in France. It was also one of 33 restaurants in France to receive a Green Star, a new Michelin Guide category awarded for sustainable practices. Nature as Friend, Companion, Mother When it comes to her culinary ideas, it is in the natural world that Vallée said she finds true inspiration. “In nature I find a friend, a companion, and a mother. My job is to pay tribute to her, to preserve her, and present her to the world. I find her as fragile as she is strong, as moving as she is cruel, as beautiful as she is sometimes sad.” She believes that plant-based cooking allows people to break free from traditional cooking constraints, get out of their comfort zones, and think more deeply about the living world and the plate. “It offers an unrivaled playground for renewed creativity, thanks to the complexity and the thousands of plant varieties that exist,” she said. People Eat with Their Eyes People eat with their eyes, or so the saying goes, and as a former art historian, Vallée likes things to look good on the plate. But she doesn’t advocate any hard and fast rules for budding chefs when it comes to presentation. “I don't really have any advice on culinary aesthetics. Personally, I'm a keen observer of nature and its changing colors over time. I also like to bring harmony to proposals and the positioning of food on and around the plate,” she said. The 'Stars' of Her Kitchen In addition to her creativity and achievements with food, she is also known for her passion for using renewable materials. This is perhaps best illustrated by the relatively small and trusted team of suppliers she keeps around her. “They are the stars of my kitchen,” she enthused. “Carole my greengrocer; Claire my ceramist; Pierre my baker; Philippe my wine merchant; Benoît my grocer, and Cyril my horticulturist. Their work is sourced from organic, ecological, or sustainable agriculture. They all live within a 20 km (12 mile) radius of the restaurant.” “Carole my greengrocer; Claire my ceramist; Pierre my baker; Philippe my wine merchant; Benoît my grocer, and Cyril my horticulturist. All six are passionate about their respective fields. Their work is sourced from organic, ecological, or sustainable agriculture. They all live within a 20 km (12 miles) radius of the restaurant and add value to the region through their know-how and techniques.” Changing Seasons and Stories Despite her reputation in the kitchen, chef Vallée is never one to rest on her laurels and likes to change things up when it comes to putting new creations on the menu. “My cooking is rather unusual in that I regularly change the dishes according to the seasons and my inspirations,” she said. “What's more, my culinary approach focuses on the message and the story. All dishes are important in this sense and contribute to the narrative.” Keep It Sustainable at Home "I wrote my book, Origine Non Animale, Pour Une Gastronomie Végétale, published in 2023. So, my customers can easily draw inspiration from some of my recipes to cook at home.” When it comes to creating delicious vegan dishes and helping support sustainability at home, Vallée said it is the “small, simple gestures” that make a difference every day. “Be careful not to let the water run for hours on end. With basins, you can reduce this impact by washing your vegetables, and then rinsing them in another, and the same goes for washing up. Even in an apartment, uneaten peelings can be fed into worm composters. Prefer bulk packaging to reduce packaging consumption. And, of course, give preference to local and seasonal produce—organic is even better,” she told The Earth & I. Cooking as a Virtue She added: “Cooking for yourself is also a virtuous act for yourself, others, and the planet. We spend less and pay more attention to what we eat when we cook. Making your own household products doesn't actually take much time, and it's frankly 1,000 times more environmentally friendly. Also, people can stop wasting food “by drying your food, preserving it by fermenting it, salting it ... just like our grandparents did!” she advised. From her self-taught beginnings and art history and archaeology background to her success in bringing people together to help realize a dream, it is clear Vallée is no ordinary chef. She has blazed a trail that is kinder to nature, inspiring many others along the way, and will hopefully continue to do so long into the future. *Mark Smith is a journalist and author from the UK. He has written on subjects ranging from business and technology to world affairs, history, and popular culture for the Guardian, BBC, Telegraph, and magazines in the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia.