SEARCH

Sponsored content with the Earth & I.

Sponsored content with the Earth & I.

Feasibility Study Says Orbiting Solar-Powered Servers Could Lower Carbon Footprint   Orbiting data centers could deliver more sustainability than their Earth-based counterparts, says a newly released feasibility study  by Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture European aerospace company.  Supplying sustainable energy for servers that process nearly incalculable numbers of AI, cryptocurrency, and blockchain transactions is a pressing environmental challenge. But this is a challenge that needs to be met if Europe hopes to meet its target  of net zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050.      Along with orbiting solar-powered servers’ potential to lower emissions through energy savings, Thales Alenia Space expects them to deliver a return on investment of several billion euros by 2050, reports   The Wall Street Journal  (WSJ).     The company’s feasibility study is comparing the environmental impacts of space-based data centers—powered by solar energy accessed beyond Earth’s atmosphere—to those of Earth-based data centers, said WSJ.  Called ASCEND, short for “Advanced Space Cloud for European Net zero emission and Data sovereignty,” the project was launched in 2023 and is funded by the European Commission.  The study’s head, Damien Dumestier, said   the company has been coordinating “a consortium of 11 partners since January 2023” with an initial focus on the carbon footprint of Europe’s land-based data centers. He said the team already calculated the continent’s terrestrial data center CO2 equivalent consumption at 20 million tons per year from now until 2030. The ultimate goal, he said, is to target a power capacity of “10 Terawatt-hours (TWh) to cut the energy requirements of Earth-based data centers by 10%.”   Dumestier cited other environmental benefits of housing servers in space. Water consumption, he said, would be “greatly” reduced as space is relatively cold. Keeping servers cool on Earth currently requires “several tens of millions of liters” of water every year, he said.    The project envisions a capacity of 10 MW (megawatts) per orbiting data center, which Dumestier said would require a solar panel surface area of about 35,000 square meters (nearly 377,000 sq. ft). He compared that with the 7,500 square meter (about 80,700 sq. ft) solar panel surface area of the International Space Station, which is nearly one fifth its size.   The orbiting modules required for such a task would be large and heavy, said Dumestier. “We need to make sure that a suitable launch solution can be developed and that the overall structure is as light as possible to minimize the carbon footprint of launch operations. Optimizing payload weight and volume will also be a key challenge,” he added.   In a June press release  announcing the feasibility study’s findings, the company said ASCEND, with help from aerospace launch company ArianeGroup and the European Space Agency, has “validated the feasibility of a launcher capable of conducting multiple launches while mitigating their carbon footprint.” The company said modular units comprising the data centers could be assembled in orbit using robotics.  Dumestier believes projects like ASCEND can advance space technology while lowering the environmental impact of digital technology. Space, he says, is “vital” for Earth’s future. “It offers multiple possibilities to complement terrestrial infrastructures. And it’s an unparalleled asset to better manage the delicate balance between developing human activities and protecting the environment.”  Sources:   WSJ: Putting data centers in space could reduce their carbon footprint   Thales Alenia Space wins EU feasibility study for 'Ascend' space data centers - DCD ( datacenterdynamics.com )   Thales Alenia Space reveals results of ASCEND feasibility study on space data centers | Thales Alenia Space

October Gathering in New York to Feature Session on ‘Nature Education’  The Collaborative for Spirituality in Education  (CSE), in partnership with the Spirituality Mind Body Institute  at Columbia University Teachers College, will convene  a National Conference on Spirituality in Education at the school’s Manhattan campus on the theme of “Awakened Education: Engaging the Spiritual Core.”     Scheduled from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2024, the in-person, free-admission gathering will feature expert keynotes and sessions on topics related to the application and impact of spiritualty in education, including a session on “Nature Education.” The conference is geared to educators, practitioners, academics, and others who are interested in “whole person education.”    CSE, which receives support from Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, describes its mission as “ nurturing the innate spiritual capacity of educators (independent of any doctrine, ideology, or religion) through enriching activities, engaging discourse, scientific research, and contemplative practices, beginning with childhood and continuing across the lifespan.”      The October conference follows CSE’s “ Awakened Campus Global Conference , ” which was held in March in Europe. Leading global scholars spoke on humanity’s “transcendent relationship with a higher power” and how this can be translated into a scientific, evidence-based solution to post-COVID-19 mental health malaise.     Speakers at the European conference included Spirituality Mind Body Institute founder Lisa Miller*, who is also a professor of psychology and education at Teachers College. In 2015, she was the host of the inaugural CSE conference.    The “Nature Education” session at the upcoming National Conference on Spirituality in Education is likely to address what Prof. Miller and her colleagues have described  as a scarcity of programs that “educate students on how to cultivate a direct and personal relationship with nature.”      Updates and information on the conference, including registration information, can be found at the CSE website .   *Author of the bestseller, The Awakened Brain , Prof. Miller teaches innovative courses such as "The Animal/Human Bond" that highlight the importance of conscious interaction with nature, and the profound connection between animals and human beings. (See The Earth & I , June 22, 2023)

Scientist Urges Homes to Have Air Filtration Devices, Purchased or DIY   Air quality in the United States has  vastly improved  in the last five decades, but smoke from annual wildfires continues to cloud that record, says a professor who studies chemicals and other air pollutants.      “For most of the United States, for all of the pollutants that we’ve been regulating under the Clean Air Act since 1970, concentrations are going down, down, down in most parts of the United States,” says Dr. Tracey Holloway, professor of energy analysis and policy at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, in an interview with SciLine . “But the trends in wildfire smoke are setting us back, and many places are having levels of air pollution in the air that weren’t seen since 1970 or earlier, or even never. And so … the trends in wildfire and their impact on air quality really are a big deal.”    In the recent SciLine interview , Dr. Holloway shared some basics on keeping ahead of unhealthy or hazardous air quality threats by monitoring, staying indoors, and taking advantage of a home air purifier.     She recommends using a phone app for monitoring the current air quality index (AQI), or going to airnow.gov , which is produced by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).     Air quality levels are ranked by color and range from green (good) to purple and maroon (hazardous). In between are yellow, orange, and red. Yellow means moderate or “not quite as good as it could be, but it’s not triggering any health-based standards,” Dr. Holloway explains. Orange means it registers above the limits that the EPA has set for “sensitive groups,” while red “is unhealthy for everyone.”     Dr. Holloway said the “the science behind the health impacts [of air pollution] is really well established.” (See The Earth & I , August 2021). “Your life expectancy gets shorter, heart disease goes up, respiratory disease goes up, birth outcomes can be worse.”     “Lung disease,” Dr. Holloway adds, “would be the most prominent negative outcome associated with many air pollutants, but especially wildfire smoke.”    “Once [the AQI] gets into the red,” she cautions, “everyone can take steps to protect themselves.” The first step is to stay indoors, especially where there is an air filtration system. It does not have to be an expensive air filtration system, she adds. “It actually can be something you make yourself.”    Dr. Holloway recommends an inexpensive, easy-to-construct home air purifier called a Corsi Rosenthal box . Just about anyone can make one; the materials are inexpensive, and they work better than those purchased from a store, says its inventor, Dr. Richard Corsi, dean of UC Davis's College of Engineering (see DIY video here  with written instructions and illustrations in the chart below).  For those who must be outside when there is a nearby hazardous air quality event, Dr. Holloway recommends using “the same kind of masks that we all have following the pandemic” because they are good for filtering the particulate matter found in wildfire smoke  and other air pollutants.    Sources:   https://www.sciline.org/environment-energy/wildfire-smoke-outdoor-air-quality/   https://engineering.ucdavis.edu/news/science-action-how-build-corsi-rosenthal-box   https://youtu.be/hIuH-2naozI   https://www.epa.gov/wildfire-smoke-course/why-wildfire-smoke-health-concern

*By Kate Pugnoli Famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau once stated, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”    One place where the myriad diversity of ocean life can be fully experienced is in a marine sanctuary. A national marine sanctuary  is a designated zone where the marine environment enjoys special protection. Marine sanctuaries are safe havens for complex ecosystems that can provide a variety of species with breeding or feeding grounds as well as protection for coral reefs and kelp forests. Some marine sanctuaries harbor archeological sites or historic shipwrecks.      In the US, there are many marine sanctuaries on both the east and west coasts, the Great Lakes area, and the Gulf of Mexico. Also, there is the proposed Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary , an area encompassing 582,250 square miles near the Hawaiian Island chain that is undergoing the process to be officially designated as a protected marine site.     Marine Sanctuaries Around the World   There are many marine sanctuaries around the world, including the Galapagos, Palau, and Thailand, to name just a few. Others include the Ross Sea Marine Protected Area , a 600,000-square-mile zone in Antarctica’s Ross Sea;  Apo Island   in the Philippines; and a 2,677-square-kilometer (about 1,033 square miles) protected area around the Selvagens Islands   near Portugal in the North Atlantic.   Activities at Marine Sanctuaries  Unlike other marine sanctuaries, Hawaii's Papahānaumokuākea is a protected site due to its habitat, species unique to the Hawaiian Island chain, and endangered animals such as monk seals and the Laysan duck. The sanctuary is restricted to specific purposes  and requires protected site special permits. Thus, visits to the Papahānaumokuākea tend to involve scientific research, habitat restoration, or conducting cultural practices, although “virtual visits” are available.   But many other national marine sanctuaries throughout the United States encourage visitors. In Northern California, a popular destination for thousands of visitors every year is the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. According to the Sanctuary Integrated Monitoring Network , the Monterey Bay Sanctuary is “one of the most productive marine areas in the world.” There are  36 species of marine mammals, over 180 species of seabirds and shorebirds, at least 525 species of fishes, four species of turtles, 31 phyla of invertebrates, and more than 450 species of algae.  Visitors to the waters of this extraordinary marine sanctuary can enjoy  scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and tide pooling, among other activities. Fishing is also a popular pastime in the area, and Monterey has great wildlife viewing, including visitations by whales.   Blue Carbon in Marine Sanctuaries Marine sanctuaries support a variety of ecosystems, all vitally important to the health of seas and their inhabitants. The planet, and consequently human existence itself, is dependent on the health of its waters. Marine ecosystems, like tidal salt marshes, mangroves, and seagrass areas, can store blue carbon , sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide and mitigating concerns over climate change.   Marine ecosystems, like tidal salt marshes, mangroves, and seagrass areas, can store blue carbon, sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide and mitigating concerns over climate change. Challenges at the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary  is home to a diverse community of underwater habitats. Additionally, the Keys has the only coral barrier reef in the continental United States and is home to the largest documented contiguous seagrass community in the Northern Hemisphere.   More than 6,000 animal species inhabit the Keys, and there are nine submerged shipwrecks on its Shipwreck Trail. The Keys are a prime location for diving, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. In addition to the coral barrier reef, the Keys also have extensive mangrove-fringed islands where the roseate spoonbill and other species of rare birds seek refuge to nest.   The Keys are also home to approximately 77,000 permanent residents and millions of visitors every year, so protecting the environment is a full-time job.   According to Alexandra Fine, a research specialist of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary's Science Team, the staff faces many challenges—such as the special two-day sport lobster fishing event.   “ Our total Marine Sanctuary jurisdiction covers about 253 miles; it is an extensive area for which our team is responsible,” says Fine. “One big challenge we have to face every year is … the lobster sport season, July 24 to July 25. Noncommercial fishermen can catch up to six lobsters a day. It’s a crazy time—and dangerous.”   The recreational lobster “mini-season” carries risk: In the last 10 years, lobster mini-season resulted in “an average of two dive fatalities per season,”  Florida’s Voice reported this June, citing the Divers Alert Network.    Another challenge in the Keys involves boat drivers who damage the coral reefs or research equipment. “We have distributed many buoys for boats to tie up to discourage anchors being dropped on coral reefs,” says Fine. “We also have a number of scientific buoys used to collect data. They are bright yellow and quite large—30-inches [in diameter]. They have no mooring lines, and vessels are not allowed to tie up to them. They are hard to miss if you are paying attention. But boats occasionally hit them and can do some real damage; this also results in data no longer being collected, which impacts our research.”   “But boats occasionally hit [scientific buoys] and can do some real damage; this also results in data no longer being collected, which impacts our research.” Coral Reefs: Another Vital Ecosystem Coral reefs are sometimes referred to as the “rainforests of the sea.” Located throughout the world, coral reef ecosystems are highly biodiverse and a high percentage of marine species—including fish, sea turtles and crustaceans—rely on them for survival. Coral loss is a serious problem—in the Keys, nearly 90%  of the live corals have been lost in the last 40 years, and reef restoration efforts are underway. Mission: Iconic Reefs in the Florida Keys   “Since 2019, when Mission: Iconic Reefs  was started, we have been directing many of our resources to restoring coral reefs in the Keys,” says Fine. “We collaborate with other organizations, including the Coral Restoration Foundation . … We have to determine where corals can be ‘planted.’ We check for diseased corals, and water temperatures need to be monitored. Coral cannot be relocated if it is already too hot.”   “When we find an area of corals that have successful spawning, we have to control where people anchor. A team is constantly checking moorings, so people can tie up boats without damaging coral reefs,” Fine explains. In fact, three temporary special use areas  were set up until October as sites for relocating nursery corals.   “It is a balancing act; we need to consider the science, but also have to include ‘stockholders’—fishers, divers, tourists, the tourism commission. We hold public staff meetings with a committee. If we are creating a new regulation, people can voice their opinion.”   Fine says that coral management includes public involvement as well. “As a research scientist, I look at carbonate chemistry; everything must be research-based. It is a balancing act; we need to consider the science, but also have to include ‘stockholders’—fishers, divers, tourists, the tourism commission. We hold public staff meetings with a committee. If we are creating a new regulation, people can voice their opinion.”  How to Support Marine Sanctuaries There are many ways to care for marine sanctuaries, either on site or from one’s living room. Fine suggests educating oneself about marine environments, participating in beach cleanups, and avoiding single-use plastics. When possible, eat sustainable seafood.   It is easy to be discouraged by gloomy forecasts in the media regarding the future well-being of Earth. But everyone can make a difference. Keeping a positive, forward-looking mindset and participating in workable solutions benefits the planet, and all its inhabitants. *Kate Pugnoli   is an Arizona-based freelance journalist and former educator who works with nonprofit organizations. Her area of interest is in addressing environmental issues impacting marine biodiversity and conservation. For more ways to support marine sanctuaries, visit NOAA’s website: https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/news/may24/eight-ways-to-support-marine-sanctuaries.htm

Umbrella Study Finds Vegetarian Diets Associated with Lower Risk for Heart Disease, Cancer     *By Alina Bradford Vegetarianism has existed for centuries—both the world’s oldest religion, Hinduism, and Buddhism, founded in 400 BCE, have recommended a plant-based diet since their inception s, researchers said in a 2014 study .   In modern times, the term “plant-based diet” emerged in the 1980s, but it wasn’t until around 2015  that the idea began to spread quickly, according to marketing agency Mintel,  which tracks consumer products and trends.   The growing popularity of plant-based foods is fueled by many reasons but especially health concerns related to eating meat, dairy, and other foods, as well as the environmental impacts of meat production. A 2019 survey reported  that 40% of global consumers are trying to reduce their consumption of animal proteins. This, in turn, is attracting new plant-based foods to market— research  from Mintel’s Global New Products Database predicts that the plant-based goods market could grow to $160 billion by 2030. What Are the Different Types of a Plant-based Diet? A plant-based diet primarily consists of foods made from fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, oils, whole grains, legumes, and beans. While this diet doesn't mean complete avoidance of animal products, its goal is to eat more of what comes directly from plants and less of what comes from animals.   Here’s how plant-based diets work, their potential benefits, and ways to incorporate plant-based concepts into a person’s eating habits.   The goal [of a plant-based diet] is to eat more of what comes directly from plants and less of what comes from animals.   Plant-based diets can take several forms. Probably best-known is the vegetarian diet, which excludes meat, fish, and poultry, but there are variations that are still considered vegetarian: Lacto-vegetarian : Includes dairy products. Ovo-vegetarian : Includes eggs. Lacto-ovo vegetarian : Includes dairy products and eggs. Some other popular plant-based diets include: Vegan diet:  Excludes all animal products, including dairy, eggs, and honey Pescatarian diet:  Includes fish and other seafood but excludes meat and poultry Flexitarian diet:  Primarily vegetarian with occasional inclusion of meat and fish No matter how meat enters the equation, the standard foods included in a plant-based diet are: Fruits and vegetables:  Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants Whole grains : Provide essential fiber and nutrients Legumes : High in protein and fiber Nuts and seeds : Offer healthy fats and protein            Just How Healthy Is a Plant-based Diet? A recent umbrella study  consolidated findings from 48 studies published between 2000 and 2023 on plant-based diets and their health impacts. The researchers cautioned that there are significant gaps in knowledge that must be addressed. However, their study indicates that plant-based diets are linked to better health outcomes, such as less risk of cancer, a better lipid profile and glycemic control, lower body weight, less inflammation, lower mortality from cardiovascular diseases, and a lower risk of ischemic heart disease. The study indicates that plant-based diets are linked to better health outcomes, such as less risk of cancer, a better lipid profile and glycemic control, lower body weight, less inflammation, [and] lower mortality from cardiovascular diseases. Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND, an award-winning registered dietician and public speaker on diabetes and plant-based diets, says that “key health markers” are used to assess health outcomes. These markers “include lower blood pressure, lower body mass index, improved cholesterol levels, inflammation/pain, and improved blood glucose,” she says. “These positive benefits are mainly due to the high fiber, antioxidant and phytonutrient content found in plant foods.” Here are some ways that a plant-based diet can improve health: Obesity : Plant-based diets are typically lower in calories and higher in fiber, thus aiding weight management. Blood Pressure : High potassium and low sodium content in plant foods help regulate blood pressure. Cholesterol : Soluble fiber in legumes, fruits, and vegetables helps reduce levels of “bad” cholesterol. Mental Health : Nutrient-rich plant foods support brain health, potentially reducing the risk of depression and cognitive decline. [See The Earth & I , Feb. 2024] Inflammation : Anti-inflammatory  properties of plant foods can alleviate symptoms of arthritis and asthma. “[P]articipants following a plant-based diet might have other reasons for their positive health outcomes, such as ... being more health-conscious.” Although the statistical associations between plant-based diets and improved health are robust, questions remain. “The research is complicated,” says Elizabeth Nix, Ph.D., RDN, an assistant professor of nutrition in Ohio Wesleyan's Department of Health and Human Kinetics. “For years, there have been observational studies that show an association between plant-based diets and health, but association does not mean causation, and many criticize these statistics citing that participants following a plant-based diet might have other reasons for their positive health outcomes, such as having a higher income, being more health-conscious, and eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.” Meat-based Diets and Health Outcomes Nix explains that most studies compare vegan or plant-based diets to common low-fat, low-calorie diets, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diets. “It’s unclear what it is about meat products that might increase risks of disease,” says Nix. “For a long time, nutritionists and popular media villainized the saturated fat found in meat as being the unhealthy component, but a lot of new research doesn’t really support that saturated fat is unhealthy per se; it depends more on the food source.” Besides saturated fats, other another suspected culprit are the nitrosamines  found in meats—i.e., compounds developed during the curing and cooking of meats with nitrates. “However, history has taught us that trying to identify the one ‘bad’ component of a food often leads to confusion, misunderstanding, and ‘franken-foods’ as the food industry tries to counteract the one bad food component while trying to keep all the yummy things intact,” says Nix. “In fact, many commercially produced cured meats have stopped using isolated nitrites and nitrates, with the new, bold packaging of ‘uncured’ on things like turkey, ham, maybe even hot dogs. Don’t be fooled, these products still have nitrites and nitrates in the form of celery salt, a naturally occurring nitrate product. The truth is, we just eat too much meat, and we have developed the cheapest possible way of doing it.” “The truth is, we just eat too much meat, and we have developed the cheapest possible way of doing it.” Sheth takes a different view. She states that there are several factors that may be associated with meat-based diets leading to poor health outcomes: High intake of red and processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Quality matters. Low-quality meats often contain higher levels of unhealthy fats and are less nutrient-dense. Processed meats often contain additives and preservatives that may be linked to cancer. Grilling or frying meats can produce higher levels of harmful compounds. “It's a combination of these factors that contribute to the negative health outcomes associated with meat-heavy diets,” says Sheth. “The problem is not just the meat itself, but the overall lifestyle factors and dietary patterns that contribute to the health outcomes.” Limitations of Plant-based and Meat-based Diets Both plant-based and meat-based diets have their limitations. Plant-based diets can lead to potential nutrient deficiencies without careful planning, while meat-based diets can lead to less fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are typically provided by vegetables and fruits. Nix says that the nutritional limitations of a plant-based diet depend on what is eaten. A few micronutrients are often limited in a vegan diet, including iron, vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D. If someone is consuming dairy and eggs, though, these nutrients are likely not a concern. Iron deficiency anemia is particularly a problem—it is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies worldwide. “Men are at a low risk of iron deficiency and are likely to have few problems with iron when adopting a plant-based diet,” says Nix. But “women who are menstruating or pregnant should be cautious when adopting a vegan diet and regularly check their iron levels.” Despite the risk of these deficiencies, many researchers still believe the health benefits outweigh the potential risk of deficiency. Vitamin B12 is available in supplements, fortified foods, and as an injection. Many vegan food products are now fortified with B12, but it’s a good idea to get an annual injection of B12 for anyone adopting a fully plant-based diet, recommends Nix. While there is concern that vegans don’t consume enough protein, Nix says, “This is a myth.” “Most Americans are consuming way more protein than they actually need. A plant-based diet can provide enough protein, even for active individuals,” she says. [E]ach day someone who is vegan should try to get a variety of grains and beans that complement each other. Plant proteins, with the exception of soy, are considered incomplete proteins, meaning they are missing one or more of the essential amino acids, explains Nix. However, if someone is getting a varied diet, they are likely getting the missing amino acids from something else. For example, grains often lack lysine, which are abundant in beans, but beans are a poor source of methionine, which is found in grains. These are called complementary proteins. It’s not crucial to pair these for every meal, but each day someone who is vegan should try to get a variety of grains and beans that complement each other. Vegans should consistently ensure they are eating good sources of plant protein. Some great, minimally processed sources of protein include: Tofu Beans Lentils Peas Nuts Seeds  Plant-Based ‘Meats’: Yay or Nay ?                                     Plant-based meats are becoming  more and more popular as a convenient alternative for those transitioning away from animal products. However, they often contain processed ingredients and may not offer the same health benefits as whole plant foods; moderation is key. “Many people want to ensure they are getting only these minimally processed foods, but if your lifestyle is complex and busy, these foods can be time-consuming,” says Nix. “While it’s less ideal, healthwise, the busy vegan may opt for some plant-based ‘meat’ products that may help with time or family tastes." These options may not provide all the same health benefits as eating whole plant foods, but they are still a more planet-friendly option than meats.” “While it’s less ideal, healthwise, the busy vegan may opt for some plant-based ‘meat’ products that may help with time or family tastes.” “Some of the plant-based meat alternatives are fortified with essential nutrients, such as iron and vitamin B12, which are important for those following a plant-based diet,” says Sheth. “However, there are quite a few choices and it's important to read nutrition labels carefully to find those made from high-quality ingredients. Also, enjoy these as part of a well-balanced diet that is rich in plant foods.” Strategies to Eat More Plant-Forward When it comes to introducing plant-forward eating, Sheth offers these tips to get started: Start slow, try one plant-based meal as part of the meal rotation. Consider doing Meatless Mondays . Be creative and try new recipes. Start the day with a smoothie bowl (see image below), followed by lentil soup and salad for lunch, and a tofu and vegetable stir fry served over quinoa for dinner.  For snacks, enjoy some veggies with hummus or fruit with some nuts. Transitioning to a plant-based diet can be a rewarding step towards better health. With careful planning, it’s now easier than ever to embrace plant-forward eating thanks to its growing popularity as the “it” diet. * Alina Bradford  is a safety and security expert who has contributed to CBS, MTV, USA Today, Reader’s Digest, and more. She is currently the editorial lead at SafeWise.com .

*By Rick Laezman The new technology of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is promising to transform the world’s relationship with computing. Its potential in multiple fields is astounding. However, like so many other innovations, this technology also threatens the environment due to its tremendous energy consumption. Do the advantages of AI outweigh its potential environmental impact? Can the architects and developers of this technology find a way to mitigate this impact? Their response to this dilemma will significantly impact AI's future growth and role in society. What is Artificial Intelligence? Like a lot of overused, high-tech jargon—e.g., cloud computing, metaverse, and the internet of things (IoT)—there may not be one universally recognized definition of AI. The University of Illinois at Chicago defines AI  as "a branch of computer science that aims to create machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence." More specifically, AI uses algorithms that analyze data to “learn,” or perform tasks based on that information, in a way that looks a lot like human intelligence. This might include functions such as understanding speech, recognizing faces, writing sentences, creating images, and yes, even driving cars. AI is not a new concept. Stanford University professor John McCarthy is credited with having coined the term “artificial intelligence” in a proposal  he co-authored in 1956. McCarthy gave credit to English mathematician Alan Turing, who gave a lecture on the subject in 1947 and later published a paper on it called, “ Computing Machinery and Intelligence .” The field had yet to make any significant progress in the realm of the practical—until two years ago. With the commercial availability in 2022 of sophisticated applications like ChatGPT, otherwise known as large language models (LLMs), AI made the leap from the mostly hypothetical to the actual. With the commercial availability in 2022 of sophisticated applications like ChatGPT, otherwise known as large language models (LLMs), AI made the leap from the mostly hypothetical to the actual. The potential for AI in computing applications seems limitless. Software giant SAS  says that features of AI, such as “automation, conversational platforms, bots, and smart machines, can be combined with large amounts of data to improve many technologies.” These include home security, financial investment analysis, fraud detection in banking and accounting, cancer detection and other medical diagnoses, grid energy management, and much more. The Downside of AI Most breakthroughs come with a drawback. With AI, it is the enormous increase in energy consumption. The development of the internet and, more recently, the surge in so-called cloud computing introduced the world to the new concept of data centers. These are large facilities filled with servers, or processors, where most of the world's everyday online computing actually takes place (as opposed to on desktops or onsite computer servers). Understandably, these large concentrations of computing equipment under one roof consume vast amounts of electricity and generate an equally large amount of heat. Now that AI is going mainstream, the energy demands of these facilities are expected to balloon—data center traffic alone is expected to grow by a factor of 10 every two years, according to technology assurance company Spirent. Existing data center equipment runs on the same processing chips as the personal computers (PCs) that people use at home and in the office. … Unfortunately, CPUs are not sufficient to support the computing needs of AI applications. The reasons are rooted in the technology itself. Existing data center equipment runs on the same processing chips as the personal computers (PCs) that people use at home and in the office. These central processing units (CPUs) are constructed from billions of transistors and can have multiple processing cores. Computing giant Intel   explains that CPUs are the “brain” of a computer and are ”essential to all modern computing.” Unfortunately, CPUs are not sufficient to support the computing needs of AI applications. Enter the graphics processing unit, or GPU. Commercially available first in the 1990s, they were designed primarily for design and graphic applications, like image rendering, video editing, and gaming. Today, GPUs can “deliver massive performance,” as Intel puts it, but this also means more demand for electricity, plus generation of heat, which requires more energy for cooling. The market research firm, Newmark , notes that GPUs “require up to 15 times the energy of traditional CPUs.” Given that massive data centers will be incorporating GPU-enabled equipment to meet the growing demands of AI, the energy footprint of these data centers is going to explode. In its 2023 study on the U.S. data center market , Newmark projects the need for computing resources to “increase exponentially” as a result of AI. It explains that the typical stack (“rack”) of computer servers in a data center for one business customer currently requires 10 to 14 kilowatts. The study projects the demands of AI to more than quadruple that figure, pushing the requirement to between 40 and 60 kilowatts per rack. How Will Tech Companies Meet the Challenge? This is where tech companies face a conundrum. The tech sector has embraced sustainable energy practices, and Apple, Google, and others have invested heavily into renewable energy resources and energy efficiency  to reduce their carbon footprint. But if these companies invest in ever-larger data centers that require greater amounts of energy and space to meet the demands of AI, how can they also meet their goals to reduce their energy footprint? The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports  that while Google and Microsoft have pledged to dramatically reduce carbon emissions, the opposite is occurring for the two tech giants—and AI is largely to blame. Google’s overall emissions increased by 13.5% from 2022 to 2023 and are up by nearly 50% since 2019. … Microsoft's emissions have followed a similar trajectory as Google’s, increasing by 29% between 2020 and 2023. According to WSJ, Google’s overall emissions increased by 13.5% from 2022 to 2023 and are up by nearly 50% since 2019. Google chief sustainability officer Kate Brandt and senior vice president Benedict Gomes responded to this, saying in a letter accompanying the company's annual sustainability report that “in spite of the progress we’re making, we face significant challenges that we’re actively working through.” Microsoft's emissions have followed a similar trajectory as Google’s, increasing by 29% between 2020 and 2023. Challenges Not Insurmountable On the positive side, the challenges regarding data centers and AI are not insurmountable. Companies have many remedies at their disposal to make AI more energy efficient. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reports that “new tools are available to help reduce the energy that AI models devour.” For example, MIT's own Lincoln Laboratory Supercomputing Center  (LLSC) has found that by limiting or “capping” the amount of power a GPU is able to draw, energy consumption by AI is reduced by 12% to 15%. The only drawback to this technique is an increase in task completion time by about 3%, which according to Vijay Gadepally, senior staff at the LLSC, is “barely noticeable.” Data center operators can also reduce the demand for computational power by optimizing the algorithms they employ to program their AI models. Data center operators can also reduce the demand for computational power by optimizing the algorithms they employ to program their AI models. Less demand for computational power requires less energy consumption. Other techniques, such as improvements to hardware, using smaller and less complex models, more efficient training techniques for AI models, optimizing the scheduling of AI computing, and moving computations closer to where data is stored (also known as “edge computing”), whether employed singularly or collectively, can increase the energy efficiency of AI computing and the data centers where it occurs. ‘Green Data Centers’ Another technique for reducing the carbon footprint of AI is to conduct the computing in so-called “green data centers.” The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) defines a green data center   as a facility that performs the functions of a traditional data center “but in a more sustainable way.” According to IEEE's definition, all the center's systems “are designed to consume less energy and minimize its environmental impact.” This includes computer, electrical, mechanical, and lighting systems. They are designed and built, using low-emission construction materials and furnishings, to minimize building footprints. Perhaps most importantly, they utilize alternative energy sources, such as heat pumps or solar photovoltaic technology. Their design also incorporates responsible practices such as e-waste recycling. The energy savings of these green data centers can be significant, with some reports of savings as much as 40% . [M]any proponents of AI argue that AI will help drastically increase energy efficiency in society broadly, and that these improvements will far outweigh any increase in its energy footprint. Additionally, many proponents of AI argue that AI will help drastically increase energy efficiency in society broadly, and that these improvements will far outweigh any increase in its energy footprint. For example, the WSJ also reports  that Google has worked on an AI-powered tool that would help airplanes avoid generating contrails , which account for 57% of aviation’s global-warming impact . The ‘Greening’ Effect of AI Data Centers The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC), which is an association of electric energy solutions providers and other stakeholders operating in the Caribbean region, Central and South Americas, and globally, reports   that AI can contribute to energy conservation in a number of ways. For instance, AI can contribute to energy conservation by optimizing energy consumption in buildings, which account for nearly 40% of global energy consumption. CARILEC says AI can be used to adjust heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in real-time, ensuring that energy is only used when and where it is needed, which “can result in significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions.” There are other ways in which AI can help stop global warming, some of which may seem a little less obvious, but just as effective. A list compiled by the World Economic Forum   (WEF) includes: Tracking patterns in iceberg melting. Mapping deforestation. Helping vulnerable communities adapt to climate change. Increasing waste recycling. Detailed mapping of ocean waste. Predicting climate disasters. Improving weather forecasting and wind patterns for better wind energy generation. Tracking platforms to help industries reduce their emissions. Using drones to disperse seeds for Brazilian reforestation. If some of WEF's solutions seem far-fetched, another proposal may seem totally out of this world, by comparison. Thales Alenia Space is a joint venture between two European defense, security and transportation system providers, Thales and Leonardo. In June 2024, the partnership announced the results of its ASCEND (Advanced Space Cloud for European Net zero emission and Data sovereignty) feasibility study  of data centers in outer space. According to the study, orbiting platforms could save energy. For example, they would consume power generated by solar panels that are located outside the Earth's atmosphere, and they would be much easier to cool than data centers on the ground because space is much colder than Earth. (See the news brief "European Plan to Lower AI Energy Bill Is Out of This World " in this The Earth & I  issue). Technology Moves Quickly and in Surprising Ways Barely two years ago, AI broke through the barrier of imagination to become a transformative force for technological innovation, and the hype is far from subsiding. With that breakthrough, the carbon footprint of AI is already significant and something that cannot be overlooked as the world grapples with the challenge of climate change. Just as other powerful innovations, like smart phones, electric cars, windmills, and rooftop solar panels, have grappled with their own unique set of environmental challenges to balance their benefits with their impact, AI needs to do the same. *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.

Product Labeling Can Assist—or Mislead—the Environmentally Conscious Consumer    *By Yasmin Prabhudas What Do ‘Green’ Labels Mean?   It is now common to see products with labels that indicate eco-friendly manufacturing or handling processes, such as “green,” “organic,” “sustainable,” “biodegradable,” etc.   Such “green” labels are designed to appeal to the responsible consumer hoping to minimize their impact on the environment. These “ecolabels”—which presume independent certification—may also enhance the perceived value of the products, and encourage a consumer’s willingness to pay more for a labeled product than one without a label.   But it can be challenging to navigate these labels. What do they mean? Are companies delivering on their eco-friendly promises, and do they live up to consumers’ expectations?  A 2020 European Union (EU) Commission study   found that 53.3% of the environmental claims (80 out of 150) that were investigated in EU member states were vague, misleading, or unfounded, while 40% were unsubstantiated.    Frans Timmermans , executive vice president for the European Green Deal , a European Commission initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, said:   “Green claims are everywhere: ocean-friendly t-shirts, carbon-neutral bananas, bee-friendly juices, 100% CO2-compensated deliveries, and so on. Unfortunately, way too often these claims are made with no evidence and justification whatsoever. […] Many Europeans want to contribute to a more sustainable world through their purchases. They need to be able to trust the claims made.”  “Green claims are everywhere: ocean-friendly t-shirts, carbon-neutral bananas, bee-friendly juices, 100% CO2-compensated deliveries, and so on. Unfortunately, way too often these claims are made with no evidence and justification whatsoever.” A. ‘Organic’ in Foods  According to the US Department of Agriculture  (USDA) , a product can be labeled “organic” if it fulfils certain criteria. For example, produce and grains must be produced using only natural fertilizers and pest control methods that do not harm the environment. For meat, dairy and eggs, animals must be well-treated, able to roam freely in the open air, and be free of growth hormones and antibiotics.  Organic packaged goods must not contain genetically modified organisms, must be traceable from farm to store, and must be free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.  However, the USDA “organic” seal does not require 100% organic ingredients: Products made with 95% certified organic ingredients, by weight or fluid volume  (excluding water and salt), can be labeled organic if the remaining 5%  is organically produced under certain conditions.    However, the USDA “organic” seal does not require 100% organic ingredients: Products made with 95% certified organic ingredients, by weight or fluid volume (excluding water and salt), can be labeled organic if the remaining 5% is organically produced under certain conditions.   Other products can be labeled as “made with organic [components]” when at least 70% of their ingredients are organically produced, with the remaining 30% meeting “other production requirements.” If the organic content is under 70%, individual ingredients may be labeled “organic.”    B. ‘All-Natural’ in Foods   The term “natural” does not have a legal definition in European Union law  or formal criteria in the US Food and Drug Administration  (FDA). However, the US government claims that food marked “natural” should not contain any artificial or synthetic ingredients. The policy does not cover food production or processing or how a product is manufactured, nor does it outline how nutritious a food might be.  The USDA , which regulates poultry, meat, and egg products and is distinct from the FDA, defines a “natural” meat and poultry product as being minimally processed and containing no artificial ingredients or coloring agents. But it warns that just because a label says a product is natural, doesn’t mean it’s healthier, and consumers should study the nutritional facts label.    C. Terms Related to Carbon Emissions  Several green labels indicate eco-friendly carbon emission practices, including net zero, carbon-neutral, energy efficient, etc.  The  United Nations  defines “net zero” emissions as cutting carbon emissions to the point where residual amounts can be absorbed and stored through natural processes and other carbon dioxide removal measures. This ensures no net increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, in alignment with goals of the Paris Agreement , negotiated at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in 2015 and signed in 2016.     The term “carbon neutral,” as defined by the decarbonization platform provider Plan A , means that any CO2 released from an organization’s activities is offset by an equivalent amount being removed.    “Energy efficient,” according to the  Environmental and Energy Study Institute , simply means using less energy than usual to carry out a task; in other words, it cuts energy waste.   “Carbon credits” are used by companies to receive allowances for the amount of CO2 emissions removed or prevented. Under an emissions trading system, one company can sell these allowances to another company to offset the buyer’s emissions, so the buyer can claim to be carbon neutral. " Carbon credits " are used by companies to receive allowances for the amount of CO2 emissions removed or prevented. Under an emissions trading system, one company can sell these allowances to another company to offset the buyer’s emissions, so the buyer can claim to be carbon neutral. Companies also can   improve energy efficiency by switching to renewable energy, as well as implementing “ zero (net) deforestation ” projects to reduce carbon emissions by protecting trees.  D. Terms Related to Material Composition and Disposal  According to the European Environment Agency , “biodegradable” is defined as something that is “capable of decomposing rapidly by microorganisms under natural conditions (aerobic and/or anaerobic).” “Most organic materials, such as food scraps and paper are biodegradable,” the agency said.    However, biodegradation can be based on industrial standards , such as in compost, soil, or sea water with set moisture, humidity, or pH conditions. Temperatures can also range from 20°C (68°F) to 58°C (136.4°F), far beyond the range that one would expect at home.     When looking for products that could biodegrade in one’s yard, those with the OK compost Home   certification are a better bet, having undergone testing  in a more applicable temperature range of 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) and a maximum biodegradation period of six months with at least 90% relative biodegradation.   “ Bioplastics ” are biodegradable material from renewable sources, which can reduce plastic waste by using natural polymers from agriculture or employing cellulose or potato or corn starch. [See The Earth & I,   April 2024 ] They are used in agriculture, the textile industry, in medicine and for packaging, and are known as polyhydroxyalkanoates or PHAs. Research   and development are also underway for algal-based bioplastics, which have identical properties as conventional plastics but are naturally biodegradable. But only bioplastics from renewable biological sources are biodegradable (see ‘ Planet vs. Plastics’—Prospects of Bioplastics, One Step at a Time for the Environment , The Earth & I) . The term is sometimes misapplied to plastics made from fossil fuels , which are not biodegradable.  But only bioplastics from renewable biological sources are biodegradable. The term is sometimes misapplied to plastics made from fossil fuels, which are not biodegradable. “ Bio-based ”   material is, according to the European Commission , “wholly or partly derived from materials of biological origin (such as plants, animals, enzymes, and microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and yeast).” It is used in items such as detergents, paper, textiles, pulp, pesticides, and inks.   Fermentation and bio-catalysis   are used to create bio-based products. They are more efficient than conventional methods, saving energy and water and cutting toxic waste. They also help cut CO2 levels because they are based on renewables, such as plants.  But something that is biodegradable is not the same as being compostable , which means the item should disintegrate within 90 days without harming the environment. A product labeled as biodegradable could take centuries to break down and could leave behind a variety of toxins. That means that products labeled biodegradable should usually be disposed of in the trash.  Steps Being Taken to Protect Consumers Around the World    Some companies are using green labels to make claims about their products that are misleading or untrue. For example, they might state that a product is compostable, when in fact it is not, or that something is energy efficient or net-zero without providing evidence. Fortunately, authorities are taking steps to make sure labels are accurate and trustworthy.  For example, they might state that a product is compostable, when in fact it is not, or that something is energy efficient or net-zero without providing evidence. Fortunately, authorities are taking steps to make sure labels are accurate and trustworthy. A. USDA Regulation in the USA  A USDA spokesperson** said: “Organic is a vital part of the US food system. The organic food sector has been growing and expanding over several years because consumers value organic products. Any time an industry grows, and there are new financial opportunities, there are also opportunities for bad actors to mislead consumers by not following the rules. That could include trying to sell ingredients or animal feed as organic when it really isn’t.”  That’s why the department has introduced the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule . The spokesperson added: “This rule makes it harder to cheat the system because most businesses in the organic supply chain must be certified organic. […] This action allows us to oversee the supply chain more completely and act more quickly to keep fraud out of the market.”  Organic agriculture is regulated through the National Organic Program (NOP) . The NOP has established  organic equivalency arrangements  with Canada, Japan, Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, the UK, and the European Union, and there are recognition agreements  with Israel and New Zealand.   B. ‘Eco-Labeling’ in Latin America and the Caribbean  An initiative covering Latin America and the Caribbean  has been launched to establish the first eco-labeling program in the region. Products must meet specific criteria before they can be awarded the eco-label, so consumers can have confidence in how the product was manufactured.   C. ‘Ecolabel’ in the European Union  The European Commission also has a voluntary EU Ecolabel  that is awarded to sustainably designed goods and services. It covers everything from cleaning material, electronics, clothing, and paper products to furniture, personal care, gardening products, and tourism and hotel services. Other proposals, such as the Green Claims Directive , also aim to protect consumers.  How to Find Consumer Information on ‘Green’ Label Products    There are steps that consumers can take to make sure labels are genuine. They include confirming an operation’s organic status by searching for it in the USDA  organic INTEGRITY database   and visiting the USDA’s  customer-focused web page , which explains more about the organic label.       Look out also for the voluntary EU Ecolabe l , which certifies the credentials of a European Union product. Staying informed is crucial – you can access information on sites such as those of the United Nations Environment Programme   and the One Planet Network .  *Yasmin Prabhudas  is a freelance journalist working mainly for non-profit organizations, labor unions, the education sector, and government agencies.   **Quotes supplied via USDA press office

Why Eating the Whole Thing Is Good for the Planet By Gordon Cairns*   ** This article was updated on September 26, 2024, to include meat production figures from 2023. In 1916, the crew of Antarctic explorers were in a perilous situation. Five months earlier, they had managed to escape their ship, the Endurance, as it slowly sank beneath the treacherous pack-ice of the Weddell Sea. After a perilous 850-mile trip in three boats through icy waters, t hey had just reached the inhospitable outcrop of Elephant Island in April. The starving, exhausted group initially survived on a diet of seal, penguin, and seabird. As food sources disappeared, old, discarded bones, and rotting carcasses were dug up and turned into stew. Still, this was not enough to sustain the malnourished men. They saw they were surrounded by fresh shellfish and iron-rich seaweed, and began to eat these unthinkable things. Their leader Sir Ernest Shackleton later dryly observed: “This did not agree with some of the party.” The experience of the starving shipwrecked sailors—who all escaped the ordeal—says two things about modern human attitudes toward food. First, even those faced with starvation can be picky eaters, but, more importantly, eating concepts that have been around for decades may be standing in the way of optimal human and environmental health. Changing Habits It was at a future time of great peril, World War II, that the British public was forced to eat parts of animals normally thrown away. Vast quantities of prime cuts of beef and pork were shipped to American troops serving overseas while the government encouraged citizens to eat organ meat on the homefront as a “patriotic duty.” However, patriotism alone was not enough to persuade people to eat certain foods—heart, liver, and tripe—considered to be particularly unappetizing and suitable only for those who could afford little else. Anthropologist Margaret Mead and psychologist Kurt Lewin encouraged butchers to reframe organ meat as “variety meat,” something to be eaten once a week as a tasty and nutritious change to the normal diet. The strategy worked until the war was over, and the public gladly returned to their familiar steaks, chops, and ribs. Yet two centuries before, author Elizabeth Raffald’s best-selling cookbook had recipes for turtle fins, goose giblet stew, and pig’s feet— “let the feet boil until they are pretty tender”—and for a celebratory meal, grilled calf’s head with brain cakes. Meat Production Increases These beautifully crafted nose-to-tail dishes became unpopular in part because of the growing abundance of convenient, affordable alternatives. Between the publication of Raffald’s The Experienced English Housekeeper in the mid-1700s and Shackleton’s shipwrecked sailors in the early 1900s, the production of meat increased twelve-fold in the United States due to the agricultural revolution. New machinery and farming techniques, coupled with better transportation and new western lands for grazing livestock, brought plentiful, cheap meat to the market. And this farming revolution spread across the developed world to Europe and beyond. In the last fifty years, total global meat production has tripled , and from 2018 to 2023, global meat production increased from 340 million tons (Mt) to 354 Mt . A twenty-six-story skyscraper pork farm began production this year in Ezhou, China, with the capacity to slaughter over one million pigs annually. As has been well-documented, meat production is a major producer of global greenhouse gases. Over 14% of the world’s yearly total comes from the industry as rearing animals causes the release of methane, a greenhouse gas thirty-four times more potent over a century than CO2. Cut Back or Eat it All? In the unlikely event of everyone rationing their meat to cut back on carbon, the second-best option might be returning to 18th century eating habits in which almost all parts of an animal are consumed. A 2018 study on German meat consumption—which is twice the global average—by Professor Gang Liu, a researcher at the University of Southern Denmark, found that if people ate more of an animal—50% extra organ meat from that which is normally discarded—then emissions from Germany’s meat production would fall by 14%. It’s not hard to imagine the impact if this change were replicated worldwide. It is not only meat lovers who discard what is good to eat. Whether it be tops (carrot), blossoms (squash) or leaves (beans), vegetable lovers do the same. Sweet potatoes, for instance, might be delicious, nutritious, and versatile, but their leaves never make it to grocery store shelves. Yet these greens are even more nutritious, containing the macronutrients of carbohydrate, protein, and fiber, and can be easily served raw in a salad or cooked in a dish as a replacement for spinach. While consumers in Japan, Taiwan, and many parts of Africa enjoy these leaves, they have had minimum usage in the Western diet. It is Mostly About Culture To encourage people to expand their palates, several barriers may have to be overcome, including those that have been ingrained through culture and upbringing. Consumer psychologist and member of the British Psychological Society, Paul Buckley, explains that people learn what is unappealing from a very young age, and this first impression is hard to shift: “A small child will see their parent wrinkling their face in disgust and have a negative association with that food.” “Trying to get people to accept food that is different is hard work,” he adds. Furthermore, acquiring disdain for certain foods can be based on cultural norms. Buckley remembers meeting Chinese people who found the concept of a Western staple—cheese—repulsive, describing it as “rotten milk.” And these cultural barriers can be very local: When Buckley was in Mexico, he observed people eating iguana. This, he learned, was considered very distasteful in other parts of the country—where snake was eaten. “The cultural factor is the main driving force,” he said. Examples of eating more of what nature provides are common worldwide. Scottish culture celebrates the national dish of haggis, which consists of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs cooked in the large intestine of a cow. Many Cambodians enjoy a meal of tarantula. When seasoned with sugar and salt and deep-fried, these spiders are a delicacy when in season, with individual street vendors selling up to a hundred per day. Seattle-based chef David Gordon George —who likes to cook the spiders in a tempura batter with a paprika seasoning—finds that their thinner skins make for a chewier delicacy compared to other insects. From Russia to Sri Lanka , the fish eyeball is a delicacy to be fought over at the family dinner table. Consuming them is said to stimulate brain cells and stave off memory loss, courtesy of a pair of unsaturated fatty acids, DHA and EPA. The windows to the fish’s soul are used by many cultures to flavor stocks, stews, and soups for a rich, umami taste. It was a diet of nose-to-tail fish, turtle’s blood, and jelly fish that kept modern-day Ecuadorean castaway José Salvador Alvarenga alive for more than thirteen months at sea. Perhaps if everyone were to capture their inner castaway, diners worldwide might be able to help save the planet—as well as improve their health—by eating a greater portion of their meats, fruits, and vegetables—bones (broth) and all. *Gordon Cairns is a freelance journalist and teacher of English and Forest Schools based in Scotland . Editorial note : Gordon Cairns interviewed Paul Buckley.

Louisiana Red Swamp Crayfish Unwanted in Great Lakes Waters    *By Mark Smith Not all alien invaders are found in sci-fi books and movies. Some of them, like the red swamp crayfish, are very real and can be very local.  Nature is filled with ecosystems, many of them delicate, where fauna and flora have evolved over time to form a balance. And when something disturbs that balance, the effects can be devastating.   For instance, when non-native organisms are introduced into an environment, they may cause significant harm to existing wildlife populations, damage infrastructure, and even decimate food chains. Such harmful newly resident organisms are called invasive species.   All around the world, conservationists, scientists, farmers, and many others are trying to deal with the impact of invasive species, and debate is raging about how best to handle them. Should they be removed or culled? And, if so, how? Or, is it more feasible to adopt a live-and-let-live philosophy and  permit the invasives to integrate into the ecosystem as nature finds a way to establish a "new normal" balance within the ecosystem?  Non-native or Invasive   Terminology is vital in this debate because not all species introduced into a habitat are invasive.  The term “non-native species” refers to organisms that are not originally from a particular area but are introduced accidentally or purposely by human activity, or by natural events.  Many non-native species are harmless or even beneficial to their new home. The humble tomato, for example, is non-native to the United States. Many non-native species are harmless or even beneficial to their new home. The humble tomato, for example, is non-native to the United States but grows innocuously in many people’s gardens and makes a delicious addition to many dinner plates.  But other non-native species are, as the US National Parks Service defines  them , ones that cause “harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health.”   “Most non-native species are not harmful and may provide economic benefits,” said Joanne Foreman of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MI DNR), which is currently engaged in programs to control invasive species.   “Invasive species cause harm when they out-compete native species by reproducing and spreading rapidly in areas where they have no natural predators and change the balance of the ecosystems we rely on.”  Invasive organisms can also impact the food chain. Dr. Douglas Tallamy is Professor of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. He says the introduction of certain plants—especially ones that offer little food for insects themselves but crowd out native plants that do—impact native US insect populations to the degree that there are fewer insects and reduced bird populations. “In North America, 96% of our terrestrial birds rear their young on insects,” Dr. Tallamy told The Earth & I.  “This is the problem when you reduce that number of insects. By and large, when you flood the environment with a plant from someplace else, it devastates the food web.”   A Red Menace One invasive species that has found increasing fame—or infamy depending on one’s point of view—is the red swamp crayfish. The Louisiana crayfish ... has established unwanted populations far from home—throughout Europe, Asia, and elsewhere in the US. Native to the south-central US and northern Mexico, it is known as the Louisiana crayfish . But this edible species has established unwanted populations far from home—throughout Europe, Asia, and elsewhere in the US, including on the southern shores of the Great Lakes in Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin.  Red swamp crayfish are large and aggressive compared with many other crayfish species, and are capable of adapting to a broad range of conditions. One 120 mm (4.7 in) long female can carry over 600 eggs.  In the US,  one reason they have spread so far is because they are the species most used in the food industry and eaten at crawfish boils.  They are also popular as aquarium pets and may be  released into waterways by aquarium owners who no longer want them. But despite the red swamp crayfishes’ harmless appearance, they can have a devastating impact if released into new environments. According to the Invasive Species Center , the crayfish can cause the accumulation of toxic cyanobacteria by overfeeding on aquatic plants. The cyanobacteria can release toxins and take up more of the water’s oxygen—suffocating other organisms. The crayfish also negatively impact native fish populations by consuming fish eggs, larvae, and aquatic vegetation. Red swamp crayfish also tend to burrow near the water’s edge, decreasing bank and soil stability, which can lead to increased erosion around water infrastructure, bank slumps, and problems with drainage. This has been observed in Europe and Asia, where there have been cases of catastrophic drainage of wetlands and rice paddies. ‘Bad Things Will Happen’                                                          The state of Michigan has been trying to control booming populations of invasive red swamp crayfish for six years. In 2017, the species initially found its first Michigan home in a hotel retention pond. The MI DNR spent three years trapping and removing more than 100,000 of them from the pond without ever reaching eradication. But efforts are continuing with new ways being tested in the hopes of making a significant dent in their numbers. Dr. Brian Roth is Associate Professor at the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University. He is working with the MI DNR, US Geological Survey, Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas, Gun Lake Tribe, and Auburn University to determine the best way of eradicating or controlling the species. “The Michigan DNR is really keen on maintaining our native ecosystems,” he told The Earth & I .  “We really just don’t want to find out what happens if red swamp [crayfish] become widespread and abundant. Almost all signs point to ‘bad things will happen’.”   He said the overall aim of the current strategy was to cull the crayfish and control the populations they cannot eradicate. “We do not want these crayfish here,” he said. “We value our native animals more than invasive ones.” His team’s research is looking at novel ways to mitigate or resolve the problem. “We have tried sound to attract crayfish. It works but is too cumbersome and not cost effective. Carbon dioxide didn’t work and was pretty expensive.” The team even made traps for juvenile crayfish made from modified shower loofahs, but that too was unsuccessful. He said it was too difficult to implement on a large scale. Currently, biological controls using fish and different types of traps are being explored. “We always implement these strategies in a scientific framework that helps us to learn what works and what doesn’t, and we always keep in mind that we want a strategy that is easy to implement and not cost-prohibitive,” said Dr. Roth. The team is currently using a pyrethrin-based chemical that binds quickly to sediment and is non-toxic to mammals and birds but highly toxic to crayfish.   The team is currently using a pyrethrin-based chemical that binds quickly to sediment and is non-toxic to mammals and birds but highly toxic to crayfish.  “We use this chemical in combination with a bentonite clay product to fill existing crayfish burrows and hopefully trapping crayfish inside. These treatments appear to be the most effective and cost-effective means to reduce crayfish abundances,” he said. A Different Way of Thinking? But there are some observers in the invasive crayfish debate who argue that the crayfish should be allowed to co-exist with native species or be dealt with in ways that are less aggressive. “We need to take a humane, long-term view and learn to co-exist, as some species considered invasive are here to stay,” said Cebuan Bliss , an environmental researcher at Radboud University in the Netherlands. She is one of the contributors to a report on invasive species published by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES). She pointed to a controversial policy in the Netherlands to use underwater traps to kill animals, like coypu (nutria) and muskrat, that are considered invasive. The traps hold the animal under water until they drown, causing the creature distress and pain. Now, she said, the traps are being phased out in the Netherlands but are still being used in other countries. “Slowly but surely, we're seeing more humane methods  of managing these species,” she said. “In the United Kingdom, researchers are experimenting with contraception for squirrels. Non-lethal methods of managing invasive animals also include using sound, scent, or physical deterrents.” While debate is ongoing about the best way to deal with invasive species, there is urgency around the need to get something done. Time will tell if such methods are effective. *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 .

Scientists Propose ‘Blue-Green’ Initiatives to Solve Leh City’s Environmental Woes *By Dr. Mahesh Kumar Gaur Ladakh, known as the “Land of High Passes,” “Little Tibet,” or the “Last Shangri-la,” is a region in the northernmost part of India, located between the Kunlun Mountain range in the north and the Himalayas to the south (Figure 1). As a union territory (federal territory governed by the Union Government of India), Ladakh is known for its largest city and capital, Leh.   This rugged landscape, which sits at a high altitude of 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level, has captivated travelers, adventurers, and scholars for centuries.   In fact, this region has seen an explosion in tourism in the last decade. The crush of visitors has brought in welcome tourist money, but it is multiplying local communities’ problems with water supplies, sanitation, roads, and farming.   Although efforts are underway to address the challenges, the concept of sustainability becomes paramount here. Tourism is a double-edged sword—bringing economic benefits while potentially harming the environment and disturbing local communities. ‘Hotspot’ for Ecological Research A primary reason to visit Ladakh’s cold desert environment is its fragile ecosystem, which has adapted to harsh conditions, scant rainfall, and low humidity levels. The flora and fauna have adapted to survive, making Ladakh a hotspot for ecological research and biodiversity conservation ( Gaur et al., 2024b ).   There are a variety of plant species , such as juniper, wild roses, sea buckthorn, and alpine flowers, that stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. The region's high-altitude lakes, including Pangong Tso  and Tso Moriri , are fed by glaciers and snowmelt. These lakes provide vital breeding grounds for several bird species, contribute to the region's beauty, and serve as crucial sources of freshwater for local communities and wildlife. Ladakh’s Cultural Heritage and Outdoor Activities Another attraction of Ladakh is its rich cultural history. Visitors from around the world are drawn to its unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist culture, stunning landscapes, and adventure opportunities. Ladakh’s heritage is shaped by its location on the ancient Silk Route and centuries-old ties with Tibet. The region is dotted with monasteries ( gompa ), such as Thiksey , Hemis , and Diskit , which are not only centers of Buddhist worship but also repositories of Tibetan art, architecture, and manuscripts. Ladakh is a mecca for adventure enthusiasts. The rugged terrain offers opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and motorbiking. The Khardung La pass , one of the world's highest motorable roads, and the Zanskar River, famous for its challenging rafting routes, are among the top attractions for adventure seekers. The stark beauty of Ladakh's landscapes—towering snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and expansive plains—makes it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. The changing hues of Pangong Tso  and Tso Moriri  lakes at different times of the day and the magnetic hill phenomenon near Leh add to the region's allure.   Also, the warm hospitality of the Ladakhi people, their colorful festivals (like Hemis Festival and Ladakh Festival), traditional cuisine ( thukpa , momos , and butter tea), and vibrant handicrafts (such as Pashmina shawls and turquoise jewelry) further enrich the cultural experience for tourists. Surge of Tourism in Ladakh Apart from Leh City, Leh district consists of 113 villages , where tourists make their stay. Ladakh first opened its doors to tourists in 1974, and since then the number of visitors has soared from a modest 400 to 500 annually to a record-breaking 800,000 tourists in 2022 (Figure 2). This surge in tourism has exacerbated water resource depletion and environmental degradation in Leh and surrounding areas. The scarcity of water has led to the abandonment of farms and traditional livelihoods, while encouraging migration into other villages or towns.   The visitors, while welcome, put demands on local water supplies. Researchers, such as Dr. Rajesh K. Goyal from the ICAR Central Arid Zone Research Institute, estimate that it will take an additional 2.5  to 3.0 million liters (about 660,000 to 800,000 gallons) of water daily to accommodate guests at full occupancy (Goyal et al., 2023; Goyal et al., 2024).   Researchers, such as Dr. Rajesh K. Goyal from the ICAR Central Arid Zone Research Institute, estimate that it will take an additional 2.5  to 3.0 million liters (about 660,000 to 800,000 gallons) of water daily to accommodate guests at full occupancy. Leh’s population has long relied on glacial meltwater and springs for its water supply. But it now faces water shortages during peak season, and local hotels and guesthouses are resorting to unregulated groundwater extraction.   The drying up of springs has necessitated the use of thousands of water tankers daily to meet the demands of tourists.   Urbanization in Ladakh The pace of construction has more than doubled in Leh. Data reveals  that 9,400 new buildings were constructed between 2003 and 2017—which is approximately the same number of buildings constructed from 1969 to 2003.   Data reveals that 9,400 new buildings were constructed between 2003 and 2017—which is approximately the same number of buildings constructed from 1969 to 2003.   Further, the building area has quintupled from 36 ha (89 acres) to 196 ha (484 acres) between 1969 and 2017, according to Dr. Juliane Dame  of the Heidelberg Center for the Environment, Heidelberg University, Germany, and colleagues. Consequentially, construction activities have consumed some agricultural land—loss of farmland rose from 1% in 1969 to 8% in 2017 .   Urban expansion is even spilling into barren land area surrounding the town, according to Dr. Mahesh Kumar Gaur of Central Arid Zone Research Institute. Analyzing the satellite data of urban development in Leh, it reflects three main characteristics: (a) expansion of urban areas into barren land, (b) expansion of urban areas into agricultural land, and (c) densification of already existing built-up areas. While the maximum water supply capacity was 7.5 million liters per day (MLD) in 2018, the Ladakh Ecological Development Group stated that the water supply needed to increase to 12 MLD in 2022 . Drs. Goyal and Gaur stated that in 2030, as much as 18 MLD of water would be required (Goyal et al., 2023; Goyal et al., 2024).   Drs. Goyal and Gaur stated that in 2030, as much as 18 MLD of water would be required.   However, meeting this demand amid water leakage problems, with nearly 38% of water wasted, remains a challenge.    Plans for Environmentally Conscious Management in Ladakh Ladakh leaders are now engaged in efforts to promote responsible tourism, conserve fragile ecosystems, and empower local communities through sustainable livelihoods.   In collaboration with the National Institute of Urban Affairs and the Global Covenant of Mayors South Asia, the Leh Climate Action Plan  was launched with the primary aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This includes enhancing energy efficiency, improving public transportation, and tackling issues related to water scarcity and waste management. In 2021, NTPC Limited introduced a project to deploy five hydrogen buses and establish a solar plant along with a green hydrogen production unit.   The Himalayan Farmstays initiative  offers tourists a chance to experience the genuine Ladakhi lifestyle by staying on farms in local villages. This experience includes participating in tours, farming activities, and scenic walks.   Instead of using chemical fertilizers, the farms utilize manure from dry toilets, which is environmentally friendly but less lucrative. Manish Adlakha , who leads ground operations for the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh, noted that the lower profitability of this approach can be offset through tourism.   Given the water scarcity in Ladakh, Drs. Gaur and Goyal recommend implementing Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI). This model calls for comprehensive planning, collection, and regulation of water, wastewater, glacial meltwater, and stormwater across the urban landscape, while equipping cities with the resilience to adapt to climate change and extreme weather conditions.   This concept also integrates water bodies and green spaces in urban areas, where “blue” represents water features like rivers, lakes, and wetlands, and “green” encompasses parks, gardens, and vegetation. ( Gaur and Goyal 2024 ). Drs. Gaur and Goyal also propose incorporating “green” elements such as green streets and green roofs to filter pollutants from runoff, creating parks and wetlands to protect biodiversity, and enhancing urban vegetation. Additionally, they advocate for the restoration of traditional water courses in Leh that have been lost due to urban expansion and encroachment ( Gaur and Goyal 2024 ).   The local administration is actively working to revive abandoned villages and address water shortages through the Jal Jeevan Mission  (JJM). Out of 40,808 households, 38,242 (93.71%) have been provided with tap water, according to data  from JJM.   The local administration is actively working to revive abandoned villages and address water shortages through the Jal Jeevan Mission  (JJM). Out of 40,808 households, 38,242 (93.71%) have been provided with tap water, according to data  from JJM. Additionally, Village Level Water and Sanitation Committees have been established in 235 out of 240 villages (97.92%) to enhance the implementation of rural water supply initiatives under the Blue-Green Initiative.   The Ladakh administration is currently drafting a policy for managing solid and plastic waste. In rural areas, the Rural Development Department oversees waste management, with Solid Resource Management Centres set up in over two dozen villages to handle waste collection and sorting. The Amrit Dharohar Scheme  aims to promote the optimal utilization of wetlands over the next three years.   A detailed management plan for the biodiversity conservation of the Tsomoriri-Tsokar wetland ecosystem has been prepared by the Department of Wildlife Protection in collaboration with WWF-India. Local authorities are actively working to preserve urban green spaces and enhance their attractiveness and livability.   Ladakh's ecological diversity, cultural richness, and tourism potential make it a truly remarkable destination. However, it is crucial to balance tourism development with conservation efforts to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and benefit from the natural and cultural treasures of this high-altitude wonderland. *Dr. Mahesh K. Gaur  is Principal Scientist at the ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur, India, and is currently working at its Regional Research Station, Leh (The Union Territory of Ladakh, India).   References: Gaur, Mahesh K. 2024. Land Use Changes, Agricultural Productivity and Food Security in Cold Arid ecosystem of Ladakh, India . (In press)   Springer, Switzerland.   ———, R.K. Goyal, M.S. Kanwar, and V. Chaudhary. 2024a. Geoinformatics Applications in Land Resources Mapping and Management in Leh District (India). In: P. Santra et. al (Eds), Book of Abstract for Conference on Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Challenged Agro-Ecosystem . Arid Zone Research Association of India (Jodhpur, Rajasthan), pp 151.   Goyal, R.K., M.K. Gaur, and M.S. Kanwar. September 4, 2023. “Looming Water Crisis in Ladakh Under Climate Change Scenario.” The Earth News.   ———, M.K. Gaur, and M. Singh. 2024. Water resources of cold arid region of Ladakh: Present status, problems and management strategies. In: P. Santra et. al (Eds), Book of Abstract for Conference on Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Challenged Agro-Ecosystem . Arid Zone Research Association of India (Jodhpur, Rajasthan), p 33