SEARCH

Extraordinary Health Benefits of Sprouts Can Also Be Homegrown *By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe Sprouting chlorophyll-rich microgreens at home is increasingly popular with consumers.  ©IURII BUKHTA/ iStock Sprouting—the process of germinating seeds, grains, or legumes—has been associated with several health benefits, mostly due to the biochemical changes that occur during germination.   While sprouting can be done at home in any season, it is an excellent way to get nutrients in winter months. “It literally takes 48 hours to sprout beans even in cold Canadian weather,” says vegetarian food blogger Bhavna , who writes her “food journey” from Ontario, Canada.   Today, the demand for sprouting is growing, thanks to health-conscious consumers, the regenerative agriculture movement, and the rise of personalized nutrition.   The growing adoption of plant-based diets is boosting interest in sprouting. “ Currently, sprouting is gaining prominence because of its potential health benefits and is therefore being considered as a promising strategy for improving the nutritional value of foods," Elena Penas and Cristina Martinez-Villaluenga wrote in Foods in 2020.     A small but perennial concern with sprouting is foodborne illness. In recent decades, there have been outbreaks of E. c oli  and Salmonella , especially with commercial clover, alfalfa, and bean sprouts. Some events   have  had fatalities as well as thousands of sicknesses. Other challenges  include regulatory oversight and supply chain consistency. However, public health agencies  and proponents of sprouting are tackling all these issues —particularly those involving food safety—to ensure sprouts can remain a trusted, tasty, nutritional part of a plant-rich diet. The global market value of packaged sprouts is about $1.3 billion. This is projected to almost double to $2 billion by 2033, according to Fact.MR , a market research firm  in Maryland.     An Ancient Food Source Sprouting has been practiced for centuries, with historical use in Eastern medicine, traditional food systems, and Indigenous diets. The benefits of sprouted foods have been confirmed by research , which is leading to increased mainstream acceptance. Microgreens are a nutritious topping for sashimi.  Photo: Valeria Boltneva/ pexels “In recent decades, it has seen a resurgence, particularly with the rise of raw and whole-food movements,” says Martin Caunce, director of Brow Farm  in Lancashire, UK, which specializes in organic growing and sells produce, seeds, flours, sprouting supplies, and products like buckwheat-filled pillows. Public interest in “super foods” is popular in 2025 , as well as so-called functional foods ­ or foods that may help the body beyond their core nutritional values. Sprouting plays into these interests, especially since sprouted grains, pulses, and seeds can be integrated into a wide range of foods, from baked goods  to plant-based protein products. Health Benefits of Sprouting A 2021 research study  reveals that “tremendous advances have been made…describing [sprouts’] nutritional and medicinal properties.” Though the researchers call for more studies of the relationship between sprouts and gut health, they state that sprouting is an effective method that allows seed phytochemical manipulation to improve health benefits for all.   Sprouts, says the American Heart Association (AHA), are tiny providers of “big nutrition.” Many choices, many benefits. Photo: Mikhail Nilov/pexels Sprouts, says the   American Heart Association  (AHA) , are tiny providers of “big nutrition.” That’s because germination can strengthen the presence of specific vitamins and minerals.   Harvard Health  states that sprouted grains, for instance, have higher “folate, iron, vitamin C, zinc, magnesium, and protein” levels than mature grains. Sprouting also works to break down and reduce antinutrients like phytates—which can inhibit the absorption of minerals such as zinc, iron, and magnesium—thus increasing the bioavailability of these essential nutrients.                                                                               Sprouting is also associated with better digestion. The AHA says that sprouts                                     can improve digestion of carbohydrates and proteins. A   2024 research study   found that sprouts enhance gut microbial richness and diversity.   Research further suggests  that sprouted grains and seeds are high in antioxidants , which help lower the risk of chronic diseases and fight inflammation.   Moreover, a 2021 research review  published in Nutrients says sprouted foods are often linked with various biologically active constituents, including saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have been connected to anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities.   Finally, sprouting is linked to blood sugar regulation. Sprouted grains and legumes have a lower glycemic index , making them beneficial for blood sugar management. Optimal Sprouting Conditions In recent years, studies on sprouting point to key factors that affect its success rates. Research shows  that sprout composition largely depends on genotype, environmental conditions associated with the mother plant, and germination conditions, such as lighting and air temperature. Equipped with this knowledge, farmers and growers gain more insights into how to develop optimal sprouting conditions.   The process of sprouting involves soaking seeds, grains, or legumes in water, allowing them to germinate, and then rinsing them periodically to encourage growth. This biochemical transformation activates enzymes that break down antinutrients, such as phytic acid , and increase the bioavailability of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.   In commercial settings, sprouting conditions are controlled and monitored to reduce microbial risks while maximizing nutrient density. In commercial settings, sprouting conditions are controlled and monitored to reduce microbial risks while maximizing nutrient density. “Advances in biotechnology are exploring ways to enhance sprouting benefits further, including prebiotic and probiotic synergies,” notes Caunce of Brow Farms.   While sprouting can enhance seeds, grains, and legumes’ nutritional profiles, the process also creates a warm, moist environment conducive to bacterial growth. Therefore, it’s vital that farmers and growers properly handle sprouts to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.   How to Sprout at Home     Select quality seeds: Choose seeds specifically labeled for sprouting to ensure they are free from harmful bacteria. Soak: Place the seeds in a jar, cover them with water, and soak them for the recommended time. This is typically between six and 12 hours, depending on the seed type. Rinse and drain: After soaking, drain the water and rinse the seeds thoroughly. Drain again to prevent excess moisture. Sprout: Leave the jar at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Rinse and drain the seeds two or three times daily. Harvest: After a few days, when the sprouts are about ¼ inch long, they are ready to eat. Storage: Store the sprouts in the refrigerator and consume them within a few days. Sprouting in jars.  ©aetb/ iStock Sprouting for Livestock   Sprouting is also gaining traction  in regenerative and sustainable farming practices.   At Brow Farm, the team uses sprouted grains as part of its feed for its free-range pigs.   “Sprouted grains and legumes are increasingly being used as high-nutrient, digestible feed for livestock, particularly for free-range and pasture-raised animals,” says Caunce. A fodder-sprouting factory.  Photo: Kchittock0511/CC BY-SA 3.0 Sprouting grains like wheat, barley, and oats improve their digestibility and increase their protein and vitamin content, providing a more nutrient-dense feed while reducing reliance on conventional feed sources, he adds.   The process aligns with the farm’s regenerative farming principles by enhancing soil health and utilizing whole-grain feeds to benefit both the livestock and the land. *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. Source : Interview with Martin Caunce, Director of Brow Farm.

*By Rick Laezman Wildfires threatening beaches along the Pacific Palisades, January 8, 2025.  Photo: CALFIRE  CC BY-NC 2.0 Well before Los Angeles firefighters had even a modicum of control over the devastating fires in January 2025, the search for answers had begun. The relationship between humans and the natural environment is complex. Climate change is real, but it is not a simple explanation for the catastrophic effects of every weather-related event that happens. More realistically, climate change contributes to society's continuing and increasing difficulty in living in harmony with its natural environment. In a recent analysis ,  a group of UCLA climate scientists concluded that global warming was not the sole or leading cause of the Los Angeles fires: “[C]limate change may be linked to roughly a quarter of the extreme fuel moisture deficit when the fires began” but “the fires would still have been extreme without climate change, but probably somewhat smaller and less intense.” Common Factors in the 2025 Wildfires On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, two different fires erupted in the greater metropolitan Los Angeles area. In the morning, a brush fire started on the slopes of coastal sage scrub just north of Santa Monica in an area known as the Pacific Palisades. Later that evening, another brush fire erupted in a chaparral (a type of scrubland vegetation) canyon north of Pasadena in the community of Altadena. Both fires escalated quickly, soon turning deadly and massively destructive. Although they were separated by nearly 50 miles and never connected, the two fires shared some striking similarities. First, both fires started in the dry brush of the foothills surrounding Los Angeles. Southern California often suffers from long periods of drought and has a relatively mild, arid climate. In the last two rainy seasons, however, the region experienced higher-than-normal rainfall, leading to the generous growth of shrubs and weedy grasses. The summer of 2024 was dry and extremely hot and had no significant rainfall since the previous spring. This caused the extra growth from the two previous winters to dry out.   The Santa Ana winds in January 2025 were different. … Gusts were recorded up to 100 miles an hour, equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane. Second, against this backdrop of excessive amounts of dry fuel came the notorious Santa Ana winds. While Southern California winds often blow easterly from the Pacific Ocean, bringing cool, moist air inland, the Santa Anas blow in the opposite direction. They usually originate in the fall in the high desert mountains, carrying dry, warm air toward the ocean, and down and west into the lowlands. The Santa Ana winds in January 2025 were different. They came much later than normal and blew with a force rarely seen before. They surged out of the east but swirled in all different directions. Gusts were recorded up to 100 miles an hour , equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane. These circumstances set the stage for the disaster that ensued. Regardless of what may have caused the fires initially, the area was poised to burn and burn quickly once the fires began. The Palisades Fire grew to over 200 acres in less than two hours. Similarly, the Eaton Fire expanded five times in size in just four hours.   California’s Fire-Prone Landscape Wildfires, brush and grass fires are a naturally occurring part of the ecology in California and other areas. According to the conservation organization Theodore Payne Foundation , fire has been part of the California landscape for millions of years and has played an important role in shaping the area's habitats and plant communities. Firefighters containing a brushfire during the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County, January 9, 2025.  Video: CALFIRE  CC BY-NC 2.0   The Foundation notes that Northern California’s forested landscapes have historically experienced naturally occurring fires every 20 to 30 years, while in Southern California fires occur every 30 to 130 years. As humans have settled in the West over the last couple of centuries, they have increasingly encountered and, at the same time, exacerbated the naturally occurring process of fire. The Western Fire Chiefs Association  notes that the earliest known wildfire in California history was the Santiago Canyon Fire of 1889. It burned around 300,000 acres in parts of Orange County, San Diego County, and Riverside County. The Fire Chiefs at that time used surprisingly familiar-sounding language to describe the fire’s origins, saying it “was preceded by a severe drought coupled with high-speed winds that further dried out the land.” They add that “the conditions were just right for an intense and destructive fire,” an eerie similarity to the January 7 events. “[M]any of the most dangerous and destructive fires in California have happened within the last several years due to climate change.” The Western Fire Chiefs Association maintains several lists on its website s that indicate “many of the most dangerous and destructive fires in California have happened within the last several years due to climate change.” For example, of the 20 largest fires in California history, based on acreage burned, four out of the top five happened in the last five years, and all but two were in the last 25 years. Only the list of the 20 deadliest (loss of life) fires is somewhat more evenly distributed over the last century. Although fires have become more frequent and intense, California can take some consolation in knowing that an increase in deaths has nevertheless been avoided. However, the trend of fires is intensifying, and it is also not limited to California. According to the Insurance Information Institute,  the Golden State is first on its top 10 lists, but other states come close. For example, in 2023, California had the highest number of wildfires (7,364), but Texas had almost as many, with 7,102. Similarly, for the area burned in that year, California saw the highest loss of 332,722 acres, followed closely by Alaska (314,276 acres), New Mexico (212,378 acres), Texas (210,264 acres), and Oregon (202,035 acres). Progress of the Palisades and surrounding area fires. Images acquired from January 6 to 14 by satellite (Operational Land Imager-2 on Landsat 9) show the area affected by the fire. The false-color images combine shortwave infrared, near-infrared, and visible components (OLI bands 6-5-3) of the electromagnetic spectrum making it easier to identify unburned vegetation (green) and recently burned landscape (light to dark brown).  VIDEO: NASA/JPL Global Warming and Other Factors   It is logical to blame climate change for the worsening trend. As weather patterns change, specific dynamics become exaggerated. Organizations and agencies dedicated to studying global climate change, such as the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions , assert that “climate change has been a key factor in increasing the risk and extent of wildfires in the Western United States.” Fire events have become more frequent and extreme in California, other states, and other parts of the world; hot weather, drought, dry conditions, and intense winds all contribute to the increasing intensity and occurrence of fires. The Center points to studies  that show that climate change has “doubled the forest fire area between 1984 and 2015” in the western side of the nation. There is no disputing that fire events have become more frequent  and extreme in California, other states, and other parts of the world; hot weather, drought, dry conditions, and intense winds all contribute to the increasing intensity and occurrence of fires. However, it is essential to note that other factors also contribute to this pattern, creating the opportunity for global warming to make things worse. David Demeritt , College of Arts & Sciences Professor of Earth and Environment at Boston University, cautions that “focusing on climate change leads to a certain kind of paralysis because it suggests that unless we get the entire planet on board to reduce emissions to minimize climate change, there is nothing we can do.” Understanding the causes of the Los Angeles fires requires an examination of “the immediate proximate cause (such as high ‘Santa Ana winds’ and drought)” combined with “longer-term trends in ecology, fire suppression, and land use.” Living in High-Risk Fire Zones Consider, for example, that many California residents choose to live in high-fire-risk zones. For over a century, housing developments have encroached onto geographic areas—forests, mountains, grasslands, chaparral, and sage scrub—where fire is part of the ecology. According to the Insurance Information Institute , in 2024, California had over a million housing units in areas at risk for extreme wildfires. Colorado is the next closest state on that list, with a little over 300,000 units. These figures show rapid growth over the last 30 years. According to research  led by Volker Radeloff, a professor of forest ecology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the number of homes in fire-prone parts of California grew by 40% between 1990 and 2020. Wildfire approaching a Pacific Palisades neighborhood on January 8, 2025.  Photo: CALFIRE  CC BY-NC 2.0 In addition to residential building patterns, for more than a century, policies have aimed to suppress naturally occurring fires. More than a century ago, conservationist and commercial timber interests convinced the federal government to adopt policies to suppress all naturally occurring forest fires. In 1935, the U.S. Forest Service  established a “10 a.m. policy,” which decreed that all fires should be completely extinguished by 10 a.m. the day following when they were first reported. Even though ranchers, farmers, timbermen, Native Americans, and others had long recognized the value of controlled burning in forested areas to keep them healthy and had incorporated the practice into the management of their own lands, the Forest Services' policies of complete fire suppression remained in effect for decades. It was not until the 1960s that the value of natural and controlled burns was reintroduced into forest management practice. It was not until the 1960s that the value of natural and controlled burns was reintroduced into forest management practice. By then, decades of accumulated forest fire fuel posed a new challenge. Now, when fires ignite, and eventually they do, the excessive fuel makes the burning much more intense. Another contributing factor is invasive plant species. Specifically, European settlers drastically altered the ecology with their introduction of non-native grasses  in the 1700s to feed their livestock. The weedy grasses have taken over the landscape, filling gaps in the shrubs, and introducing a highly flammable fuel. Before the introduction of these species, fire was part of the ecology, but it was much less frequent and intense. A Way Forward Addressing climate change is a formidable challenge that will take years and tremendous political will. Waiting for that kind of change will not be sufficient to mitigate the pattern of increasingly deadly wildfires. But there are steps to take today. Jack Cohen and Stephen Pyne have studied the history and behavior of wildfires: “We don’t have to solve climate change in order to solve our community wildfire risk problem,” they said in an interview with the Los Angeles Times . Instead, they argue for a change in society’s understanding and relationship to fire: “[A] thousand things that tweak the environment” will help prevent these eruptions. *Rick Laezman   is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, California. He has a passion for energy efficiency and innovation. He has been covering renewable power and other related subjects for more than ten years.

*By Kelcie Ottoes Tap water is fluoridated in most US community water systems.  Photo: Margaret Barse/ Flickr  (Public domain) For decades, fluoride has been added to community water supplies to help prevent cavities. But since fluoride is also present in toothpaste and food, questions are emerging about its overexposure and potential health risks. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the Trump administration’s new secretary of health and human services, has long called for an end to fluoridation in public water systems, citing health concerns. In response, many medical health associations , including the American Dental Association, have decried Kennedy’s views and reminded policymakers that fluoridating public water is considered “ one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.” Meanwhile, new research is emerging to help policymakers decide whether fluoridation should remain a public health standard. For the public, understanding fluoride’s benefits and risks can help people make their own decisions about it. How Does Fluoride Protect Teeth? Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water, and certain foods like dairy, meat, and seafood. It plays a key role in oral health by strengthening tooth enamel, attracting calcium and phosphate  to rebuild weakened areas, and creating a more acid-resistant surface that helps prevent cavities. Fluoride can strengthen teeth through toothpaste and dental treatments. Children absorb it more than adults, making early intake especially impactful. However, naturally occurring “fluorine” in water was once an alarming dental concern. At high levels, the mineral permanently turned children’s and adult’s teeth brown, even to the point of being “the color of chocolate candy,” the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research said in an article  on the US history of fluoridation. By the 1940s, researchers figured out how to avoid both “fluorosis” and stained teeth. But they also saw there were fewer cavities in populations when there was a very low level of fluoride in the drinking water. In 1945, Grand Rapids, Michigan, became the first city to add fluoride —at tiny levels—to the public drinking water. For 80 years, fluoride has been added in controlled amounts to many public water supplies through a process called water fluoridation. Compounds like sodium fluoride, fluorosilicic acid , or sodium fluorosilicate  dissolve into the water supply, maintaining steady fluoride levels to help protect against tooth decay. Many countries, including the US, UK, and Australia , continue this practice due to its proven effectiveness in combatting tooth decay. A 2023 Environmental Research  review of Australian studies from 1960 to 2022 indicated that fluoridated water reduces cavities by 26% to 44% across all age groups. Black tea is a natural source of fluoride.  ©freefoodphotos.com  ( CC BY 3.0 ) Beyond water and dental care, fluoride is also present in certain processed foods (such as brewed black tea ), beverages made with fluoridated water, and dietary supplements designed for areas without fluoridated water supplies. A 2023 Environmental Research review of Australian studies from 1960 to 2022 indicated that fluoridated water reduces cavities by 26% to 44% across all age groups. As of 2020, 72.7%  of the U.S. population receives fluoridated water through community water systems. Regulatory Responses on Fluoride A boy with skeletal fluorosis of the legs.  © Flickr /India Water Portal ( CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 ) While water fluoridation is a major source, toothpaste ( especially when ingested ) and certain foods may contribute significantly to overall fluoride intake, particularly in areas where people drink less tap water. This can lead people to worry that they may be consuming more fluoride than necessary. Besides dental fluorosis , which causes brown-stained teeth (a cosmetic issue), overexposure has been linked to a rare condition called skeletal fluorosis , in which bone structure changes to become more brittle and less elastic , potentially leading to joint pain and bone damage. There are also studies  pointing to lower IQs and other cognitive harms in children who ingest too much fluoride. The US federal government‘s National Toxicology Program  began studying published research on fluoride in 2015. In January 2025, it concluded, “ with moderate confidence, that higher levels of fluoride exposure, such as drinking water containing more than 1.5 milligrams of fluoride per liter, are associated with lower IQ in children.” Its research was published on January 6, 2025, in JAMA Pediatrics . In response to these concerns, health and environmental agencies have introduced guidelines and limits to help regulate fluoride exposure while trying to maintain its dental benefits. Regulatory Action and Recommendations 1986 : The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)  set a legal fluoride limit of 4 mg/L in drinking water to prevent bone disease and dental fluorosis. 2011 : The EPA and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed lowering fluoride concentration to 0.7 mg/L to balance cavity prevention with the risk of fluorosis. 2013 : The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)  recommended a daily intake limit of 0.05 mg/kg body weight per day for children and adults. 2015 : The US Public Health Service (PHS)  lowered its recommended level from 1.2 mg/L to 0.7 mg/L due to increased fluoride exposure from multiple sources. The 0.7 mg/L recommendation was finalized  but remains optional for states. September 2024: A federal judge ordered the EPA  to reevaluate fluoride regulations in drinking water due to concerns about its effects on children's intellectual development. As research continues, policymakers are re-examining fluoride standards to ensure public health safety. Policy Shifts to Balance Benefits and Risks While major health organizations continue to support fluoridation, some countries and US regions are reconsidering their approach. Countries like Germany, Sweden, and Switzerland  have discontinued water fluoridation but still promote fluoride use through fortified salt and targeted dental programs. Meanwhile, several US cities and states, including Lebanon, Oregon , and Arkansas , have moved toward reducing or eliminating fluoridation. Florida’s State Surgeon General has also questioned the necessity of fluoridated water , citing the need for further evaluation of its long-term effects. “The difference in dental health outcomes between non-fluoridated and fluoridated waters in an urban setting with access to dental care and a community where folks actively visit dentists for preventative care would be minuscule.” “The difference in dental health outcomes between non-fluoridated and fluoridated waters in an urban setting with access to dental care and a community where folks actively visit dentists for preventative care would be minuscule,” says Rohini Agarwal, a dentist at Smilecloud Family Dental in Dallas, Texas, “The more pronounced impact is in areas where families are not actively invested in oral health.” So, families regularly visiting the dentist and prioritizing tooth health may want to find ways to reduce their fluoride exposure. Toothpaste and mouthwash typically contain fluoride unless specified otherwise.  ©geckophotos/ iStock How to Reduce Fluoride Exposure Those who are worried about fluoride intake can limit exposure while keeping their teeth healthy: Use a water filtration system that uses reverse osmosis and activated alumina filters. Choose fluoride-free bottled or filtered water. Limit tea, seafood, and processed foods made with fluoridated water. Use fluoride-free toothpaste and mouthwash. Brush and floss twice a day and reduce sugar intake to prevent cavities. Consider hydroxyapatite toothpaste  as a natural alternative to help remineralize enamel. According to Kevin Gast, CEO and Co-Founder of VVater , a water technology company, “The risk lies in overexposure, and the combination of fluoride in water, fluoride in your toothpaste, mouthwash, and other sources of fluoride is the high-risk factor. It is strongly advised to be selective in your products to minimize your risk of ‘overdosing’ on fluoride. Using the latest water treatment technologies to remove fluoride from your water makes a big difference, but also using fluoride-free toothpaste, mouthwash, and avoiding various processed foods and drinks that contain fluoride.” “The risk lies in overexposure, and the combination of fluoride in water, fluoride in your toothpaste, mouthwash, and other sources of fluoride is the high-risk factor. It is strongly advised to be selective in … products to minimize [the] risk of ‘overdosing’ on fluoride.” By examining how much fluoride one is exposed to, one can manage the amount and maintain good oral health. Making an Informed Choice The debate over fluoride isn’t settled. While it’s been used for decades to help prevent cavities, research continues to uncover the long-term effects and impact of overexposure. If concerned about fluoride, start by checking the local water report, asking the dentist about one’s fluoride intake, and looking into fluoride-free alternatives. Whether people support fluoridation for its benefits or prefer to avoid it, staying informed helps one make the best choice for their health. *Kelcie Ottoes is a copywriter for sustainable businesses. She specializes in long form content with a call to action and has worked with brands like Farm Journal, Pela, ZeroHero, and more.

Connecting with Nature Promotes Environmental Stewardship   *By Julie Peterson ©pedphoto36pm/ iStock Today, there is awakening awareness  that enlightened humans will be better stewards of nature. This awareness includes boosting one’s bond with nature—a delightful activity—and becoming conscientious about not harming nature through pollution or abuse of natural resources.   There is concern about the future that lies ahead if people don’t change, but it’s not too late .   Here are some tips for boosting one’s bond with nature and marveling at the difference it makes to humans and the rest of life on Earth.   Living in Harmony Being in nature can provide valuable life lessons. A stroll through the woods shows that species in nature live in harmony and that the survival of all life depends on relationships.   Symbiotic relationships are the rule in the forest. Diversity is what makes an ecosystem strong. For instance, a patch of woods has different types of trees growing together, trunks and branches entwined with short shrubs and groundcover plants below. Symbiotic relationships are the rule in the forest.   Diversity is what makes an ecosystem strong. Compare this to a city where people of different ethnicities, nationalities, and beliefs live together without friction. What might be learned by comparing these two places?    Diversity.  Photo: pexels Diversity.   Photo: pexels In a forest ecosystem, rabbits, squirrels, birds, deer, and other animals find food and shelter—whether it be in the groundcover plants such as violets, sedges, ferns, or baneberry; the understory shrubs and trees such as staghorn sumac, dogwood, witch hazel, viburnum, or elderberry; or the tree canopy of maple, hickory, oak, locust, cedar, pine, and so on. (For help in identifying trees and other plants when in the woods, try downloading  LeafSnap  or  Seek .)   In a healthy deciduous forest, every vertical level is occupied, and plant and animal diversities are great. A squirrel in the understory of a forest.  Photo: pexels Interconnected Lives Professor Chris Laszlo , of the Case Western Reserve University Fowler Center for Sustainable Value in Ohio, is a researcher on sustainability and systems thinking as it relates to the human connection with nature. He emphasizes that understanding the interconnectedness of all life forms and ecosystems is crucial to re-establishing a strong bond with nature.   After all, it was not that long ago, on Earth’s timeline, that humans were part of the wild and nothing was domesticated. Regaining this connection to the wilderness has repeatedly been shown to be beneficial to human health  and well-being  via improved breathing, better sleep, and reduced symptoms of depression.   Laszlo points out that the health of the natural environment also benefits from human beings recognizing the interconnectedness of all life . He believes that through learning about ecosystems, the roles of different species, and how humans and the environment interact, humans will recognize that they are an integral part of the natural world and see themselves as stewards rather than exploiters of nature.     “Looking at how individual flourishing, based on what we’re terming spiritual experience—through a greater sense of connectedness that people have to their own purpose, to community, and to the larger environment—is helping them to make decisions that support sustainability in everything they do,” says Laszlo . Conscious Living Though people may take walks next to a river or through the woods, if they aren’t paying attention, does it matter? Laszlo believes that reconnecting with nature means fostering a deep, mindful awareness of the natural world. Intentionally appreciating the beauty and complexity of the environment are ways for people to awaken their connection to the Earth.   Thus, instead of talking on a cell phone while walking a trail, it’s important to focus on nature and attune to the rhythms and beauty of the environment. Laszlo emphasizes the importance of being fully present in the moment and engaging all the senses when in nature.   By paying attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of nature, individuals can develop a deeper appreciation and cultivate a more intimate relationship with the natural world.   Conscious living is not always easy for busy minds. It requires practice, and before that, learning. A few important steps toward conscious living  are:   Being mindful of thoughts and focusing on surroundings Seeing things through a wider lens, without ego and beliefs passing judgment Disconnecting from technology   “Don’t immerse yourself in your smartphone,” says Remez Sasson, author and creator of SuccessConsciousness , a personal growth and conscious-living website. “There is real life around you. Don’t forget the world. Where your awareness is, that’s where you are.”   Mindful awareness of our relationship with the wild can be encouraged by practicing gratitude, which also helps to cultivate a deeper emotional connection.   Mindful awareness of our relationship with the wild can be encouraged by practicing gratitude, which also helps to cultivate a deeper emotional connection, according to Laszlo.   This could be done by tracking one’s relationship with nature through journaling: “Today I walked the path along the lake. I saw a family of ducks. The lapping of the waves sounded soothing, but I saw the ducklings struggled to swim through these waves. Perhaps this is a lesson in how I can move through my own obstacles.” Journaling in nature.  ©mussi87/ IStock Photo journaling with captions could be equally effective (share it on social media or not; this is a personal relationship): “Interesting tree still growing even though it is broken.” “Beautiful rocks left behind by a glacier—a magnitude of force that puts my life in perspective.” “The sun was dappling through the trees, and I noticed the bees on the dandelions.” Laszlo says that gratitude fosters a mindset of respect and reverence, which can lead to more mindful actions toward the planet.   Humans are empowered by going inside themselves and observing what’s happening there. When meditating on the environment, some people come up with feelings of helplessness  about making a difference. But are those thoughts logical, since people are empowered with limitless imagination and an abundance of free will? Can people further evolve to consciously improve their relationship with the natural world?   The biophilia hypothesis says they can. It refers to one's innate or inborn focus or emotion toward life forms. Researchers say people were biologically driven  to interact with plants and animals as an evolutionary adaptation, especially crucial for humanity's survival in nature during ancient times. However, in the modern era, biophilia has shifted toward an “affiliation with Nature” that deepened and expressed itself through pro-environmental behavior.   Nurture the Connection There are myriad activities that will strengthen one’s connection with nature. Some come with a payback in the form of increased energy  and improved physical  health outcomes, such as a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Mental health  benefits may include decreased distress, attention restoration, and a sense of fulfilment . A sense of fulfilment. Istock Without realizing it, someone’s preferred activities may actually be a calling to connect with nature, such as an urge to plant a garden, fill the house with plants, care for pets, or place bird feeders outside the windows. Some might prefer swimming in a lake over swimming in a pool or relaxing under a tree instead of in a living room recliner.   Connecting with nature can take the form of small or large acts that help heal the environment. Picking up trash on a walk, composting, carrying a reusable shopping bag, volunteering to remove invasive plants, helping to build a community garden, or donating money to help endangered sea turtles are all activities that demonstrate an intrinsic connection with nature. Even reading a book to learn about local wildlife can create a greater sense of wonder and connection to the natural world.   Children in Nature A 2020 paper  published in the International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education  by researchers at the Children and Nature Network points out that children experience nature differently than adults: “Quality time in nature [for children] includes opportunities for self-directed exploration, multisensory engagement with nature places, the presence of animals, and the supportive influence of peers and adults.” Joy.  Photo: pexels Given the differences in how children perceive the world, the researchers agree on the need for more studies that focus on 2- to 5-year-olds in nature to better understand immediate and long-term effects. For example, they use their bodies as their pathway for relating to nature and may not be able to accurately vocalize or self-assess feelings like empathy and curiosity. These are the feelings that “enrich life in the moment, with the capacity to motivate children to continue to seek out nature as they grow. Through early experiences in nature, children may begin to feel part of the natural world,” the researchers say.   A child who develops a strong Connection to Nature (C2N) grows into a person who is more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviors. Many researchers  over the last 30 years have agreed that a child who develops a strong Connection to Nature (C2N) grows into a person who is more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviors.                                      During the last 20 years, studies  exploring the impact of children's nature-relationship have increased in number and focus. Studying C2N is now a scientific discipline that goes beyond the well-being of children and delves further into the long-term effects of children who develop a C2N at an early age.   One C2N study is ongoing in preschool populations in Sweden , and smaller studies are taking place across the United States and Canada. With time, these will inform parents, teachers, developers of urban areas, and designers of homes and schools when and how to introduce children to the idea of their bond with nature.     Research to improve human understanding of nature must continue, as the world faces critical socio-ecological challenges , such as biodiversity loss and climate change. Laszlo says by viewing the planet as a complex, interdependent system, individuals and organizations can develop strategies that promote sustainability and good health for both humans and the environment. *Julie Peterson   writes science-based articles about holistic health, environmental issues, and sustainable living from her small farm in Wisconsin.

Over 25% of Adults and Close to 20% of Children Have Seasonal Allergies in the US It’s that time of year when flowers bloom and pollen fills the air, causing many to suffer from hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Below are some facts on hay fever and pollen—microscopic egg-shaped male cells  of plants—in preparation for traversing the great outdoors. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , 25.7% of adults and 18.9% of children in the US had seasonal allergies in 2021. According to a 2022 study  by researchers at the University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines in France, the median prevalence of allergic rhinitis in adults worldwide was 18.1%. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences provides a list of pollen-releasing plants . These include ragweeds, trees, and grasses, such as the Bermuda and Kentucky varieties. People with tree pollen allergies are urged to avoid elm, oak, pecan and walnut trees, among others. Hay fever  can also be caused by dust mites, pet hair/dander, cockroaches, or mold. Some recommendations to reduce exposure to allergens include using air conditioning and keeping windows closed while indoors, wearing glasses or sunglasses while outside, and not hanging clothes outside to dry. Irritants , such as wood smoke, tobacco smoke, and aerosol sprays, can worsen hay fever symptoms. For those in the US, pollen.com  provides a pollen forecast for select cities across the country. Along with an index for pollen amounts, the forecast shows the top allergen sources on that day.   Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/allergies.htm https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/clt2.12130 https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/allergens/pollen https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/hay-fever/ https://www.healthline.com/health/hay-fever-symptoms   https://www.pollen.com/map

Research Finds 70 Potentially Habitable Exoplanets We only have one planet—Earth—called home, though it’s easy to take for granted the alignment of factors that make sustaining life here possible. As the search for extrasolar planets (exoplanets) advances, below are some facts of potentially habitable exoplanets and how they compare with Earth. According to NASA , over 5,000 exoplanets have been discovered since the discovery of the first one in the 1990s. The Planetary Habitability Laboratory of the University of Puerto Rico at Arecibo has a Habitable Worlds Catalog  (HWC) with 70 potentially habitable worlds. Of these, 29 are “more likely to be rock planets capable of surface liquid water” and 41 “might include water worlds or mini-Neptunes with a lower likelihood of habitable conditions.” Out of the 29 promising exoplanets, Proxima Centauri b  is the closest, at 4.2 light-years away from Earth. Its orbital period (around its host star) is 11.2 days, and it is frigid, with an estimated low surface temperature of 261 K (-12°C or 10.4°F). Despite it being in the habitable zone, it can suffer from powerful UV radiation—up to 10,000 times as much  as that experienced by Earth—from its host star, leading to atmosphere loss. Teegarden’s Star b has the closest Earth Similarity Index (ESI)—compared to how much radiation Earth emits—of 0.97 in the HWC. Its orbital period is 4.91 days, and it has an estimated surface temperature of 293 K (20°C or 68°F), which is much closer to that of Earth. However, a 2024 study  reevaluated this exoplanet’s habitability, dropping its ESI to 0.90 and a colder equilibrium temperature of 277 K (4°C or 39.2°F). Out of the “optimistic” sample of 41 exoplanets, Wolf 1061c is the closest, at 14 light-years away from Earth. Its orbital period is 17.9 days, and it has a higher estimated surface temperature of 306 K (33°C or 91.4°F). However, excessive tidal heating  (flexing or bending of a planet or moon in orbit through gravity) “might adversely affect the habitability”  of Wolf 1061c.   Sources: https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/science/science-behind-the-discoveries/hubble-exoplanets/ https://phl.upr.edu/hwc   https://science.nasa.gov/exoplanet-catalog/proxima-centauri-b/ https://www.nasa.gov/science-research/heliophysics/an-earth-like-atmosphere-may-not-survive-proxima-bs-orbit/ https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/04/aa48033-23/aa48033-23.html https://www.universetoday.com/articles/astronomy-jargon-101-tidal-heating https://www.drewexmachina.com/2017/03/25/habitable-planet-reality-check-wolf-1061c-revisited/

Better Evacuation and Firefighting Responses Sought NASA image of the Korean Wildfires from space. Wikimedia South Korea is grappling with the aftermath of its most devastating wildfires on record. CNN reported that 30 people were killed, with over 3,100 evacuated to 114 shelters, while  AP News reported that more than 37,800 fled their homes. Thousands of homes, factories, and vehicles were destroyed. The blazes, which began in the southeastern regions of the country in late March, left swaths of destruction in their wake. March 21, 2025, image of a forest fire in Sancheong, South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. Wikimedia Helicopters and fire crews worked tirelessly to drop water and fire retardants on the raging flames, although their efforts were hampered by gusty winds and dry weather conditions. Altogether, the government mobilized more than 10,000 personnel, including firefighters, 420 military helicopters, and 29 specialized Mercedes-Benz firetrucks  to assist in the firefighting efforts. Among the wildfire victims were a helicopter pilot whose aircraft crashed while fighting the flames and an 85-year-old Buddhist monk  who served as caretaker of a remote mountain temple. Four firefighters and additional workers also perished  after being trapped by fast-moving fires. Many of the civilian casualties were elderly people who found it difficult to evacuate quickly or did not heed evacuation orders. The worst-hit areas included the cities of Andong, Uiseong, and Ulsan, as well as sections of the historical Juwang Mountain. Local authorities issued evacuation orders for several villages, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hahoe Folk Village  in Andong. The Gounsa temple  complex, originally built in the 7th century, was heavily damaged, with 20 out of 30 structures destroyed. They included two designated “treasures” —a pavilion-shaped structure built over a creek in 1668 and a Joseon dynasty structure erected to mark the longevity of a king. On Friday, March 28, 2025, The Korea Times   reported  the fires to be officially contained “after 149 hours [and] 48,000 ha [about 120,000 acres] of forest scorched.” The disaster has underscored the vulnerability of South Korea to extreme weather events . Local officials quickly called for a complete overhaul of the country’s wildfire response strategies to better prepare for such events in the future. Lee Cheol-woo, the governor of North Gyeongsang Province, emphasized  the need for improved evacuation guidelines, more advanced firefighting equipment, and better resources for nighttime firefighting operations. Currently, firefighting efforts at night rely heavily on manual labor, which is inadequate given the density of Korea’s forests and the speed at which fires can spread. South Chungcheong Province Wildfires Emergency Meeting on March 25, 2025. Wikimedia The Long Road to Recovery As the nation begins to rebuild, it is clear that this disaster has served as a wake-up call for the need to rethink and reinforce the country’s emergency response systems. Lee Han-kyung, deputy head of the government’s disaster response center, said that the wildfires showed “the reality of climate crisis that we have yet experienced,” according to Yonhap news agency. The Korea Herald   cited  a March 2025 report by the National Institute of Forest Science that estimates a need for “30 [plus] years for structural recovery and up to 100 years for full ecological stabilization” to recover from wildfires of this magnitude. Recovery costs , according to   Korea JoongAng Daily , are to be covered by a budget of 10 trillion won ($6.8 billion) proposed by the Ministry of Economy to “restore areas impacted by the massive wildfire,” as well as “mitigate trade risks and support small businesses.” For the thousands of displaced residents, the road to recovery will be long. Among the evacuees is 79-year-old Seo Jae Tak, who described  the devastation of returning to his home in Andong, only to find the entire mountain reduced to ashes. His emotional response reflected the personal toll of the wildfires on South Korea’s aging population.

Earth’s Crowded Orbit Raises Concerns About ‘Kessler Syndrome’ The European Space Agency (ESA) released its annual Space Environment Report  in March with its Space Debris Office. Given how the Earth’s orbital environment is a “finite resource” with limited space, Kessler Syndrome (the Earth’s orbit becoming unusable due to increasing space debris) becomes a concern. The report provides an overview of global space activities, focusing on satellites, space objects, and space debris. Below are some key findings from the report. According to ESA’s space debris environment model MASTER (Meteoroid and Space Debris Terrestrial Environment Reference), there were 54,000 space debris objects greater than 10 cm (4 in), 1.2 million space debris objects from 1 cm (0.4 in) to 10 cm, and 130 million space debris objects from 1 mm (0.04 in) to 1 cm in Earth’s orbit as of August 2024. In 2024, there were 39,246 tracked objects orbiting Earth, an increase of 7,473 from the previous year. Payloads (or objects such as satellites and calibration objects with specific functions outside of launching something into space) occupied the highest share of the total, at 13,672 (34.8%). This was followed by unidentified objects at 7,967 (20.3%) and rocket fragmentation debris at 7,767 (20%). The number of tracked objects in Earth’s orbit since 1960.  © The European Space Agency  ( for non-commercial use ) Key: Unidentified (UI, light grey); Rocket Mission Related Object (RM, dark orange); Rocket Debris (RD, dark red); Rocket Fragmentation Debris (RF, yellow); Rocket Body (RB, red); Payload Mission Related Object (PM, light blue); Payload Debris (PD, grey); Payload Fragmentation Debris (PF, blue); Payload (PL, dark blue) There were about 13,579 tons of space objects orbiting Earth, an increase of 2,229 tons from the previous year. From the total, this was mostly from payloads, at about 9,707 tons—or 71.5%—followed by rocket bodies at about 3,727 tons (27.4%). The number of re-entered objects into Earth’s atmosphere was 2,031 in 2024. Just over half were from payloads at 1,089 objects, followed by payload fragmentation debris at 515 objects (or 25% of the total). There have been an estimated 656 fragmentation events in all of history, of which 220 occurred in the last 20 years. Fragmentation is a concern given how this increases the number of space debris objects, especially if it occurred unintentionally. Nuclear power sources (including small fission reactors) are used in outer space for interplanetary payloads and planetary exploration. Eighty-two of such objects re-entered Earth’s orbit, of which seven are “asserted but not catalogued.”   Source: https://www.sdo.esoc.esa.int/environment_report/Space_Environment_Report_latest.pdf

Except for Waterfowl and Waterbirds, Long-Term Populations Trending Down The North American Bird Conservation Initiative, a forum of government agencies, private organizations, and bird initiatives in the US, Canada, and Mexico, published the 2025 edition of the State of the Birds Report  in March. The report tracks trends of bird species in the US and recommends that 229 of the 718 bird species should be “prioritized in conservation planning.” Below are key findings from the report. Out of 718 species, 489 (68%) are of low concern. But 112 species (16%) are of high concern and 117 species (16%) are of moderate concern. The 112 species of high concern have “lost more than 50% of their populations in the last 50 years” and about 42 of these species have “perilously low populations and steep declining trends.” These included Allen’s Hummingbird, Tricolored Blackbird, and Saltmarsh Sparrow. Two of the eight bird categories—waterfowl (dabbling and diving ducks) and waterbirds—had increasing population trends compared with 1970. The waterfowl population was at +24% while waterbirds were at +16%. However, the remaining six categories—Sea Ducks, Western Forest Birds, Eastern Forest Birds, Shorebirds, Aridland Birds, and Grassland Birds—all saw population declines since 1970. Two categories—aridland and shorebirds—had no species with increasing populations. Instead, among aridland birds, there were 14 species that were stable and 17 species in decline, with a 41% decline overall. Shorebirds had nine stable species and 19 in decline, with an overall 33% decline. Grassland birds had the overall highest decline of 43%. Grasslands are being lost due to conversion for row-crop agriculture, woody-plant invasion, and drought, with the Great Plains losing 1 million to 2 million acres of grasslands per year. Western forest birds and Eastern forest birds had overall declines of 11% and 27%, respectively. Western forest birds have been declining due to habitat (forest) degradation, while Eastern forest birds suffer from short-rotation harvesting, pest outbreaks, residential development, and agriculture.   Source: https://www.stateofthebirds.org/2025/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/state-of-the-birds-sotb-2025-spreads.pdf

How Wind Power is Reducing the Maritime Industry’s Carbon Emissions *By Rick Laezman Norsepower Rotor Sails onboard Maersk Pelican are among the largest Flettner rotors in the world.  Photo: Wilsca/Wikimedia As the fight against global warming intensifies, more industries are joining the fray. In the shipping industry, this means adopting any number of innovations, including wind-aided technologies. This does not mean modern seafaring vessels will return to the massive sails and giant masts of centuries past. Instead, it involves a hybrid approach using modern technological advances that harness the power of the wind to complement and improve the efficiency of combustion engines. This is helping maritime vessels significantly reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions and, when combined with other clean energy improvements, is helping the industry become greener. Centuries of Sailing Innovation Humans have used sailing vessels for millennia, but in the late 1800s, ships began converting to combustion engines as the technology became widely used for trains, factories, and later automobiles. Now attention has shifted to reducing carbon emissions, and as shipping looks for new, cleaner forms of power, wind is making a comeback. Ironically, when combustion engines were revving up, the seeds for wind's return as a clean power source for shipping were being planted. In 1852, a German experimental scientist at the University of Berlin, Dr. Heinrich Gustav Magnus, described a phenomenon he observed in an experiment using a brass cylinder spinning in a fast-moving current of air. He noted that the interaction between the spinning cylinder and the moving air created a difference in pressure on two sides of the cylinder. The side of the cylinder that was spinning in the direction into the wind experienced high pressure, and the side of the cylinder that was spinning in the same direction as the wind experienced low pressure. This pressure difference caused the cylinder to move toward the side with the low pressure. This image of the Magnus effect shows ideal-air-flow (potential flow) velocity forces and transparent pressure-coefficient contours on a moving, rotating ball. (The airflow simulation was performed in SymLab.)  @Syguy/Wikimedia The Magnus effect  can most commonly be observed in sports that involve a spinning ball, such as tennis, soccer, baseball, or basketball. For example, when a baseball pitcher puts spin on the ball as he throws it, the Magnus effect causes the ball to curve in the air as it travels to the batter, otherwise known as a “curve ball.” Similarly, when a tennis player hits the ball, the Magnus effect causes it to drop quickly as it travels over the net to the other player, otherwise known as “top spin.” The Magnus effect on a soccer curveball.  Graphic: Isabohan (CC BY-SA 4.0) The benefits of this physical phenomenon are not limited to sports. It can also be used for power and propulsion. In the 1920s, a German engineer and inventor, Anton Flettner, developed a far more effective device than traditional sails for propelling vessels through the ocean. The device, known now as a Flettner Rotor, harnessed the pressure differential generated by the Magnus effect to impart forward motion to ships. Tall rotating cylinders mounted on the surface of ships create the same pressure difference applied to a traveling tennis ball or a baseball pitch. Instead of causing a ball to curve off its path, the difference in pressure or “lift” causes the ship to propel in a forward direction. Rotor Sails Several modern shipping companies are now harnessing and refining the Flettner technology to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. For example, the Finnish shipbuilder Norsepower  manufactures rotor sails that can be installed on the decks of shipping vessels, known as the Norsepower Rotor Sail™. The company prides itself on having "started the whole modern wind propulsion market" and boasts that it coined the term “rotor sail,” which is now used by many other companies. The company reports that it has installed 18 Norsepower Rotor Sails™ on various tankers, cargo ships, and passenger vessels since 2014, and orders for another 35 units will be filled over the next year and a half.  Scandlines hybrid ferry with its iconic Flettner rotor sail arriving at Gedser port, Denmark.  @Photofex-AT/iStock Resembling a tall smokestack—minus the smoke—the Norsepower Rotor Sail™ consists of a large cylinder made of recycled plastic. Mounted on a steel tower, the cylinder measures about 5 meters (15 feet) wide and as high as 30 meters (just under 100 feet). Vessels can have one or more sails mounted on their deck, depending on the size of the ship. The spin of the sail does not come from the wind itself. Instead, the spin is generated by an electric motor. Norsepower explains that the extra thrust, created by the Magnus effect generated when the rotor sails spin into the wind blowing across the deck, allows the ship to throttle back on its primary motors. This reduces fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Alternatively, the sails can increase the vessel’s speed without increasing fuel consumption. Norsepower says that its [rotor] sails are 10 times more efficient than traditional sails, allowing ships to realize savings anywhere from 5% to 25% in fuel consumption and emissions. Norsepower says that its sails are 10 times more efficient than traditional sails, allowing ships to realize savings anywhere from 5% to 25% in fuel consumption and emissions. Norwegian shipping company Sea-Cargo retrofitted one of its Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) ships with two 35 meter x 5 meter (114.8 feet by 16.4 feet) Norsepower Rotor Sails™. Norsepower reports that its prediction  that the 2021 installation would reduce emissions from the ship by about 25% has proved accurate. RoRo ships transport automobiles, construction equipment, tractors, and other large-wheeled vehicles. In March 2025, Sea Cargo announced that it was retrofitting two other RoRo vessels, the Misina and Masana , with the technology. Each ship will have three Norsepower Rotor Sails™, which, in conjunction with solar panels and battery storage, will reduce fuel consumption on each ship by 50%. RoRo (Roll on/Roll off) Sea Cargo ship Connector with foldable rotor sails to pass under low bridges.  Photo: Sea Cargo Regarding rotor sails, Norsepower is not the only shipbuilder using this technology. For example, London-based Anemoi Marine Technologies  offers a line of five different rotor sails ranging in height from 21 meters (66 feet) to 35 meters (114 feet). The company boasts that its sails can achieve fuel and emissions savings of up to 30% on shipping vessels. The rotor sail towers can also be folded down and out of the way, moved on rails installed along the deck of a ship, or removed and relocated to another ship owned by the same company, all of which makes the towers more versatile and cost-effective and helps shipping companies maximize space for cargo. According to Anemoi, the m/v Afros , built in 2018, is the world's first bulk carrier fitted with rotor sails. The massive 64,000 deadweight ton (dwt) ship, owned by Greek shipping company Blue Planet Shipping, has four 16-meter (52-foot) high rotor sails, which can be moved along rails installed on the deck to make room for loading and unloading cargo. Anemoi Marine Technologies estimates that on one of its recent, routine routes, the rotor sails helped the ship achieve a 12.5% savings, amounting to a reduction of 73 tons of fuel and 235 tons of CO2. Anemoi estimates that on one of its recent, routine routes, the rotor sails helped the ship achieve a 12.5% savings, amounting to a reduction of 73 tons of fuel and 235 tons of CO2. The route was sailed between November 2019 and January 2020, over approximately 11,800 nautical miles between Nantong, China, and Vancouver, Canada. WindWings While rotor sails take advantage of the Magnus effect, other wind technologies are also helping shipping improve its efficiency. In 2023, a collaboration between American food company Cargill, English maritime engineering company Barr Technologies, Japanese multinational corporation Mitsubishi, and Norwegian green maritime corporation Yara Technologies announced the launch of so-called WindWings, a new technology to harness the wind. WindWings  tap into the same propulsion properties of wind force that enable an airplane to fly. Airplane wings are designed to create a difference in pressure between the top and bottom surfaces of the wing. This creates “lift” that carries the airplane into the sky and keeps it there for as long as the plane is traveling at sufficient speeds. When WindWings are installed on the surface of a ship, they create a similar lift. But instead of making the ship airborne, they impart forward propulsion to the vessel, which allows it to move faster and power down its fuel-burning motors. Looking nothing like a traditional sail, the WindWings more closely resemble an airplane wing mounted at a right angle to the ship's deck. Looking nothing like a traditional sail, the WindWings more closely resemble an airplane wing mounted at a right angle to the ship's deck. Composed of steel and composite construction materials, they measure up to 37.5 meters (123 feet) tall. They have three specially designed sections, each of which can be adjusted to different angles in the wind to achieve maximum lift. Barr Technologies  expects the wings to generate average fuel savings of up to 30% on newly built vessels and even higher if used in combination with alternative fuels. Berge Olympus, a large bulk carrier ship with four BARTech WindWing sails at sea.  Photo: Berge Bulk Marine Shipping Transformation The maritime shipping industry is one of the world's most carbon-intensive sectors. Compared to other industries in 2022, it accounted for a relatively small amount— 2% to 3%— of total global emissions. But it is still a significant number, and given the total volume of emissions of about 1,000 million tons annually , the industry faces pressure to decarbonize. Using 2008 emissions as a baseline, the International Maritime Organization’s new standards call for a reduction of at least 20% by 2030—but striving for 30%.” In 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations Agency responsible for the shipping sector, adopted new standards  to reduce emissions. Using 2008 emissions as a baseline, the IMO’s new standards call for a reduction of at least 20% by 2030—but striving for 30%. The IMO standards further call for a reduction of at least 70%, striving for 80%, by the year 2040, and to “reach net-zero GHG emissions by or around, i.e., close to 2050.” Decarbonizing shipping is not an easy task. Due to long voyages, heavy cargo, and limited space, the industry has few options to improve its efficiency. However, efforts are underway  [see ‘All the Way to Zero’—Maritime Shipping Charts a Course to Decarbonization   The Earth & I , April 2024] to decarbonize the industry, primarily by shifting to alternative fuels, such as liquified natural gas (LNG), liquified petroleum gas (LPG), methanol, hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuel. The transition to alternative fuels in shipping may take time, “so, we have to throw everything at operational measures on existing ships—like retrofitting vessels with sails, kites, and rotors,” says Dr. Simon Bullock ,  shipping researcher at the Tyndall Centre at the University of Manchester. “Wind power can make a big difference,” he adds. One of the greatest benefits of wind technology is the plentiful supply of this natural resource. According to the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management ,  offshore winds “tend to blow harder and more uniformly than on land.” Seafaring vessels are in an ideal location to capitalize on such a consistent power source. The drawbacks are that it is a relatively new technology and comes with high upfront costs—although, as the technology advances, costs will come down. Also, like other forms of wind power, sails only work when the wind blows. The technology is also complicated, and ships face tight space constraints to make room for profit-generating cargo. Finally, shipping companies must consider the comparative cost-benefits of retrofitting existing ships versus installing them on new builds. Retrofits offer more immediate benefits, although they can be costly. Installing wind technology on new builds may take more time to benefit the industry, but it can be more comprehensively and efficiently integrated into a ship's infrastructure. All Hands on Deck While initial progress toward wind-aided vessels has been slow, projections envision an industrywide conversion in a relatively short period of time. According to Gavin Allwright, secretary general of the International Windship Association (IWSA), “now is the time for shipping to use wind energy as a fuel for maritime decarbonization.” The IWSA forecasts around 10,000 ships worldwide to have installed wind (auxiliary) propulsion by 2030 and up to 40,000 ships by 2050. In the fight against global warming, all hands are on deck. *Rick Laezman   is a freelance writer in Los Angeles, California. He has a passion for energy efficiency and innovation. He has been covering renewable power and other related subjects for more than ten years.

Coal Produced Most Electricity; Renewables Had Highest Shares of Increasing Electricity Demand in 2024 In March, the International Energy Agency published its Global Energy Review 2025 . The report covers energy trends in 2024, including those from non-renewable and renewable energy sources and resulting carbon dioxide emissions. Below are some key findings from the report. Total energy-related emissions reached a record high of 37.5 Gt CO2 (gigatons of carbon dioxide) in 2024, a 0.8% increase from the previous year. Of this total, the most was from coal at about 15.6 Gt CO2 (41%), followed by oil at about 11.3 Gt CO2 (30%), and natural gas at about 7.6 Gt CO2 (20%). Global electricity demand grew by 13.9 EJ (quintillion joules), to a total of 648 EJ in 2024. Of this increase, renewables had the highest share of 38%, followed by natural gas (28%), coal (15%), oil (11%), and nuclear (8%). Over 80% of the total increase was from emerging and developing economies. Global carbon dioxide emissions from energy combustion and industrial processes in GtCO2 from 1900 to 2024.  © IEA  (CC BY 4.0) Total electricity generation was about 31,153 TWh (terawatt-hour) in 2024. Globally, coal had the highest share of about 10,738 TWh (34%), followed by renewables at about 9,992 TWh (32%), natural gas at about 6,793 TWh (22%), and nuclear at 2,844 TWh (9%). Percentage of electricity generation by source for selected regions in 2024.  © IEA  (CC BY 4.0)Color key: nuclear (yellow), renewables (dark green), oil (light green), natural gas (dark blue), coal (light blue) Global electricity generation grew by over 1,200 TWh. Of this increase, 480 TWh was from solar photovoltaics, 190TWh was from hydropower, and 180 TWh was from wind power. In 2024, six nuclear projects (two from China and one each from France, India, the United Arab Emirates, and US) were completed with over 7 GW (gigawatts) of additional nuclear power capacity. As of February 2025, there were 62 nuclear reactors under construction in 15 countries, including China, Egypt, India, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, UK, and Slovakia.   Source:   https://iea.blob.core.windows.net/assets/ff5e4f91-815f-4f48-874d-4c1da760dded/GlobalEnergyReview2025.pdf

Australia and Chile Leading Sources of Lithium Lithium is found in small amounts in volcanic (igneous) rock and waters of mineral springs. Given its importance as a primary component of lithium-ion batteries, below are some facts on this element. Lithium is extracted from minerals (pegmatites, essentially igneous rock) and brine. Pegmatites  typically contain 1.5% to 4% lithium oxide and can be found in places such as Greenbushes (Australia), North Carolina (US), and Bikita (Zimbabwe). Continental brines typically contain 0.04% to 0.15% lithium. Such brines can be found in places such as Clayton Valley (USA), Salar de Atacama (Chile), and Salar de Hombre Muerto (Argentina). According to the International Council on Clean Transportation’s 2024 report , Chile has the largest share of global lithium reserves at 36%, followed by Australia (24%), Argentina (10%), China (8%), and US and Canada (both 4%). Meanwhile, Australia has the largest share of global lithium mining at 47%, followed by Chile (30%), China (15%), Argentina (5%), and Brazil (2%). According to the US Environmental Protection Agency , 1 ton of battery-grade lithium can come from 250 tons of ore, 750 tons of brine, or 28 tons of spent lithium-ion batteries. Lithium is known to reduce the symptoms of mania and may be prescribed for bipolar disorder. Too much can result in lithium toxicity , causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and uncontrolled shaking.   Sources: https://www.rsc.org/periodic-table/element/3/lithium https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/534440/1/lithium_profile.pdf   https://theicct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ID-206-–-Battery-outlook_report_final.pdf https://www.epa.gov/hw/lithium-ion-battery-recycling   https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/25207-lithium-toxicity