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By Marion Warin Miller* “Eco” or “green” schools have been around for decades, but an extraordinary international school on the Indonesian island of Bali is breaking new ground for environmentally oriented education. Green School Bali (GSB), founded near Ubud, on the island of Bali, is dedicated to building “a community of learners making our world sustainable.” Successful entrepreneur and visionary environmental activist John Hardy founded GSB in 2008 with his wife, Cynthia. Years earlier, he had moved to Bali from Canada to escape the harsh Canadian climate, and in 2006, he sold his shares in his eco-friendly Bali jewelry business. Hardy’s growing concern with the deterioration of the environment prompted him to take decisive action for the sake of his four children and future grandchildren. As a child, he had disliked school (he had undiagnosed dyslexia), so his vision for Green School Bali was to create a school with a hands-on, interactive, and fun-loving learning environment that would appeal to a wide range of students. Green School Bali has won awards and praise. GSB is the “most unique and impressive” school, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said when he visited the school in 2015, according to the Australian publication, The Age. British business billionaire Richard Branson [Virgin Group] also admired the school, saying he had “never been more jealous” of school kids in his life, the same article said. Spectacular Bamboo Architecture At first sight, the most striking aspects of GSB are its spectacular architecture and lush jungle environment. Most of the school’s more than fifty buildings are constructed from bamboo treated with boron to prevent insect damage and increase longevity. They showcase ways in which building materials and designs can be both environmentally responsible and aesthetically pleasing. The classrooms are wall-less, and many have their own permaculture garden attached. Most of the school’s buildings are constructed from bamboo … [and] showcase ways in which building materials and designs can be both environmentally responsible and aesthetically pleasing. In 2004, Hardy was fortunate to meet Jörg Stamm, a prominent German architect who specializes in building green structures made from bamboo instead of traditional lumber, concrete, or steel. When Hardy decided to open his ecologically oriented school, Stamm assisted him by constructing unique and astonishing structures on the Green School Bali campus. He used parabolic arches to create the largest bamboo bridge in Asia, the Millennium Bridge in Sibang Kaja, Bali. It has a span of 23 meters (25 yards) over the Ayung River, which runs through the school’s campus. He also employed spiral towers to create Heart of School, a stunning central campus building. Other bamboo masterpieces on GSB’s campus include the Arc, a towering sports and community center; a wall-less and peaceful yoga pavilion next to the river; and a zero-waste Innovation Hub, all designed by Hardy’s eldest child, his daughter Elora, the founder of Ibuku, a futuristic bamboo architectural firm. Commitment to Energy Efficiency and Waste Reduction The school’s commitment to energy efficiency is evidenced by its use of solar panels and its giant hydroelectric vortex turbine power plant on the Ayung River. Combined, they provide 100% renewable electric energy. The school’s commitment to go completely for renewable energy won them the prestigious Zayed Future Energy Prize in 2017. This gave them the funding to complete “The Vortex,” their giant hydro-turbine power plant, and in 2019, they held a ceremony to announce that Green School Bali had gone “100% off the grid,” thanks to 23.7% solar power and 76.3% vortex power. The school also boasts comprehensive waste reduction and water collecting initiatives. These include organic waste treatment toilets and a robust recycling program—they ingeniously reuse much of the recycled materials through their KemBali Recycling Center, which services the school and the local community. [The school] ingeniously reuse[s] much of the recycled materials through their KemBali Recycling Center, which services the school and the local community. GSB says its natural, green campus environment has a profound impact on the health and well-being of both students and teachers. As Principal Sal Gordon has written, “At Green School, a student’s well-being matters more than their grades.” The school believes that when the well-being of students is taken care of, they will function at their best. Green Curriculum The Green School’s curriculum has project-based environmental studies as a core component and integrates them in traditional subjects, such as mathematics, literature, and science. The students gain hands-on learning experiences with permaculture gardening (led by Hardy’s son, Orin, founder of the Kul Kul permaculture farm) and caring for the campus. They also initiated projects, such as the Bye Bye Plastic Bags movement, which is reducing plastic bag use on Bali and in 50 other locations around the world. This project-based approach ensures that students not only learn about environmental issues but envision and plan meaningful actions to address them. Students are further taught about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty and inequality, ensure people’s health, and protect the planet. [The school’s] project-based approach ensures that students not only learn about environmental issues but envision and plan meaningful actions to address them. At the end of their schooling, students in the 12th grade undertake and present—in TED-style talks—a capstone project, called Greenstone, which helps them build their resumes. Those in 8th grade graduate after completing a similar year-long Quest project. Research has shown that these types of inquiry-based education are more effective because they engage the children and their interests. GSB involves parents—many of whom move their families to Bali and work remotely so their children can attend the school—the local community, and indigenous culture in its programs. Students and faculty at GSB have developed the Bio Bus, a large vehicle powered by biodiesel produced from used cooking oil which students collect from restaurants. Three such buses are used to transport local students to and from school, and on weekends, the buses can be used by others in the community. This project provided interdisciplinary process learning for the students. The school also provides after-school programs and activities for students from local schools. Furthermore, they offer scholarships to local students. As one teacher reports, “Our students aim to raise awareness among their peers outside Green School about the importance of cherishing Mother Earth and caring for our planet.” In a recent project with the Green School Foundation, the students learned “about waste management practices and organic gardening with SD 4 Sibang Gede [a school in Sibang Gede village] students and teachers.” Training for Educators Green School Bali’s impact and influence extends outside the school’s campus and even beyond Indonesia. The school offers a training program for educators from around the world, the Green Educators Program, enabling them to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to provide students with quality education and a path to sustainability leadership. Also, through The Bridge @ Green School, Green School for Grownups, GSB offers education for parents and other local adults. Additionally, GSB is becoming a global movement. It has helped sister schools open in New Zealand, South Africa, and Tulum, Mexico (opening in 2026). These schools operate based on the same philosophy of holistic education and the three primary rules of GSB: “Be local, let your environment be your guide, and envisage how your grandchildren will be affected by your actions.” Dr. Goodall’s Visit In 2012, esteemed author and primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall visited GSB, where she gave the graduation keynote address and released two endangered Bali Starlings in a symbolic gesture of GSB’s efforts to protect wildlife. “I think all the students here are incredibly lucky, because there is this great atmosphere of learning about the things you care about, interacting with the environment, and learning some of the core values of success in life, which is respect and kindness and understanding,” she said in her address. “I have the impression of a community of people who care about each other and who care about the natural world, and I truly think that when the students graduate from here they will become leaders of the right sort to try and move this troubled world into a new phase which we so desperately need." Editor’s note: GSB provides insights into their educational programs and vibrant campus through their online Virtual Open Days several times a year. *Marion Warin Miller is a French bilingual researcher, writer, and editor now residing in Northern Virginia. She has master’s degrees in Business and Economics, and International Economics and Economic Development. She has also ministered for community development and world peace. As a grandmother of eight, she cares deeply about environmental stewardship and preserving natural wonders for future generations. She has traveled to many natural sites in countries around the world and now retreats to the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley National Park area whenever time allows.

Member States Urged to “Begin the End” of Plastics Pollution Whether by consensus or by two-thirds majority vote, the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) is urging UN member states to sign the first-ever legally binding global treaty to end plastics pollution by the end of 2024. The resolution to develop the treaty (“the instrument”), which will also cover plastics in the marine environment, was introduced at the resumed fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2), in March 2022. The UN’s International Governmental Committee (INC) was tasked with creating an agreement that addresses the full life cycle of plastic, from production to disposal. Work on the treaty began with the INC-1 session in Punta del Este, Uruguay, in December 2022, followed by INC-2 in Paris (May 29–June 2, 2023) and INC-3 in Nairobi, Kenya, in November 2023. The fourth session, INC-4, is scheduled from April 23-29, 2024, in Ottawa, Canada, with a final session, INC-5, scheduled from November 25-December 1, 2024, in Busan, South Korea. The two 2024 INC treaty gatherings follow the November 2023 Conference of the Parties (COP 28) in Dubai, where delegates agreed to transition away from fossil fuels to achieve net zero by 2050. However, since plastics are produced from fossil fuels, some observers speculate that increases in plastics production are “the ‘Plan B’ for the fossil fuel industry.” The UNEP has raised concerns over an International Energy Agency prediction that plastic production will account for almost half of oil demand growth by 2050. UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen told stakeholders at COP 28 that “plastics are not a lifeboat for you as energy systems decarbonize. The world can’t afford the emissions.” Though negotiators are committed to producing a treaty by the end of 2024, finding agreement among member states will not be easy. According to UNEP, an analysis has shown that fossil fuel and chemical industry lobbyist participation in the negotiations is on the rise. Some member states have included fossil fuel company lobbyists in their delegations at a time when UNEP is warning that “producers’ responsibilities schemes” are expected to be established to “tackle plastic pollution at its source.” According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), plastic production is predicted to triple by 2060, while recycling rates currently linger below 10%. The World Wildlife Fund estimates the “societal cost” of plastic pollution, emissions, and clean-up may be nearly $3.7 trillion just from plastic produced in 2019 alone. The situation, says UNEP, is “a call to action to everyone—governments, businesses, schools, and communities—to join forces and address one of the most urgent challenges we face.” Sources: https://www.undp.org/blog/beginning-end-plastics-pollution https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution https://www.oecd.org/environment/global-plastic-waste-set-to-almost-triple-by-2060.htm https://wwf.panda.org/wwf_news/?3507866/These-costs-for-plastic-produced-in-2040-will-rise-to-US71-trillion-unless-urgent-action-is-taken

New Report Tracks Plastic Chemicals and Their Potential Hazards The PlastChem project, funded by the Norwegian Research Council, is a collaboration of researchers from Norwegian and Swiss institutions. Project objectives include compiling data on all known plastic chemicals, linking plastic chemicals to polymers of concern, and providing scientific evidence to guide policy development. In March 2024, researchers released the first version of their State of the Science on Plastic Chemicals report. Over 9 billion tons of plastic chemicals are produced per year. More than 25% of plastic chemicals lack basic information on their chemical identity. The report found 16,325 plastic chemicals with a chemical abstract service registry number (CASRN). Of these, 11,950 (73%) are organic chemicals, 3,449 (21%) are chemicals without information, and 926 (6%) are inorganic chemicals. Only 47% of all plastic chemicals with CASRNs, or 7,585 chemicals, have data on their functionalities. The five functions associated with the greatest number of plastic chemicals are colorants (3,674), processing aids (3,028), fillers (1,836), intermediates (1,741), and lubricants (1,684). More than 4,219 plastic chemicals are viewed as hazardous because they are persistent, bioaccumulative, mobile, and/or toxic (PBMT). Out of the 16,325 chemicals, 10,726 chemicals (66%) do not have hazard data at this time, and 1,191 chemicals (7%) are considered less hazardous. Some 1,875 chemicals classified as hazardous are still marketed for their use in plastics, which means chemicals of concern can be present in all plastics types. At least 6,300 plastic chemicals have a high exposure potential, including over 1,500 compounds known to be released from plastic materials and products. Over 9,000 plastic chemicals do not have publicly available information on their origins or uses in plastic. Source: Wagner, M., Monclús, L., Arp, H. P. H., Groh, K. J., Løseth, M. E., Muncke, J., Wang, Z., Wolf, R., & Zimmermann, L. (2024). “State of the science on plastic chemicals - Identifying and addressing chemicals and polymers of concern.” Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10701706

Children Urged to Reduce Plastic Use in School Cafeterias During the week of April 17–24, 2024, non-profit Cafeteria Culture (CafCu), in partnership with Fund for the City of New York, is raising awareness among school children and the public about the billions of plastic utensils, wrappers, and other packaging items that are discarded annually from school lunch programs across the globe. CafCu’s signature event, Plastic Free Lunch Day (PFLD), takes place the week of Earth Day 2024 in New York City’s 1,700 K-12 public schools but also invites partnerships with schools as far away as Japan. What kind of impact could a program like PFLD have? According to CafCu’s website, “If every school in the US reduces just two pieces of plastic per school lunch each day, we can eliminate 10 billion pieces of plastic per school year.” The non-profit began in 2009 as Styrofoam Out of Schools. It was successful in catalyzing the elimination of Styrofoam lunch trays in every NYC public school and nine other large US school districts. This change alone is estimated to have stopped 4.2 million Styrofoam trays from entering the waste stream per week. This led to the formation of CafCu and its first PFLD event, held in 2022. School children are encouraged to bring reusable utensils from home and buy or bring lunches that don’t require utensils. Students are also asked to avoid plastic plates, condiments in plastic packaging, and any other plastic-packaged item, such as snacks or drinks during the PFLD events. CafCu says the kids in its programs discuss environmental issues, collect and analyze local data, and talk with decision makers about solutions, including ones the students have designed. The organization is also behind the production of the student-led documentary, Microplastic Madness (2019), already screened in at least 45 countries. CafCu invites under-resourced schools to host a free screening of Microplastic Madness (View official documentary trailer here). What’s next for the organization? Having helped to eliminate Styrofoam from all NYC public schools, it expects PFLD to play a major role in the non-profit’s biggest goal yet, to eliminate the remaining single-use plastics from NYC and US public school cafeterias. Sources: https://www.cafeteriaculture.org/plastic-free-lunch.html https://urbanschoolfoodalliance.org/plastic-free-lunch-day-partnership/ https://www.cafeteriaculture.org/about.html

Report Projects Large Increases of Global Bioplastics Production by 2028 European Bioplastics is an association that represents the interests of over 80 member companies mostly in bioplastics, research, and consulting, from Europe, US, and Asia (China, Japan, and Thailand). Bioplastics differ from conventional, petroleum-based plastics in that many bioplastics are biodegradable depending on their method of production and biopolymer. In December 2023, the association released its Bioplastics Market Development Update 2023, which has global bioplastics production projections into 2028. A forecasted 2.182 million tons of bioplastics were produced in 2023, of which 1.136 million tons (52%) were biodegradable and 1.047 million tons (48%) were not. However, the actual amount utilized in 2023 was 1.799 million tons (82%). This is similar to 2022 when 1.507 million tons (83%) out of 1.813 million tons were utilized. Some 43% of bioplastics (about 0.934 million tons) went into rigid packaging (0.356 million tons) and flexible packaging (0.577 million tons) in 2023. Global bioplastics production is projected to rise to 2.670 million tons in 2024, but then jump by about 81% to 4.839 million tons in 2025. This would be due to a more than doubling of biobased/non-biodegradable bioplastics production from 1.095 million tons to 2.241 million tons and about a 65% increase of biodegradable bioplastics production from 1.575 million tons to 2.598 million tons. In 2028, global bioplastics production is projected to rise to 7.432 million tons, about 340% of the 2.182 million tons produced in 2023. In 2023, the types of bioplastics with the highest global production capacities were polylactic acid (PLA) at 31.0% (biodegradable), then polyamides (PAs) at 13.5% and polyethylene (PE) at 12.3% (both biobased/non-biodegradable). By 2028, the types of bioplastics with the highest global production capacities are projected to be PLA at 43.6%, followed by PA at 18.9%, and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA, polyesters produced by microorganisms) at 13.5% (biodegradable). Sources: https://docs.european-bioplastics.org/publications/market_data/2023/EUBP_Market_Data_Report_2023.pdf

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

Ooho Gel Packets and Casein Films Take a Bite Out of Plastic Pollution By Gordon Cairns* When American entrepreneur Nathaniel Wyeth patented the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle in 1973, he couldn’t possibly have imagined how this handy, cheap, and disposable item would be part of the global environmental catastrophe facing nations today. Like other plastic packaging, the PET bottle was invented to replace heavier, more expensive containers such as those made from glass, wood, and paper. Ironically, this innovation became popular just as these other items started to get recycled: UK’s first recyclable glass bottle bank opened in 1977 in Barnsley, England. The success of plastic bottles changed people’s behavior in the West—from drinking safe, clean water from the tap to buying a plastic bottle of clean water—and created one of the fastest growing industries in the world. Sales of this product grew by 73% in the decade between 2010 and 2020. A Marathon Problem However, the problem of disposing plastic bottles grew too. For instance, after London’s 2018 Marathon, an estimated 750,000 bottles littered London’s streets; likely ended up in a landfill. Marathons encourage the public to lead healthier, fulfilling lives while raising millions of dollars for charity, but a downside emerged: These events typically supply hydration to runners with single-use plastic bottles, which are then immediately discarded. To target this environmental concern, in 2019, the London Marathon organizers cut that waste by over a third by supplying the runners with liquid in 30,000 edible packages called Ooho. The packages are made from seaweed and calcium chloride and created by regenerative packaging company Notpla. Rather than taking a sip and tossing the bottle away, runners could burst the bubble (Ooho) made from seaweed and swallow it or discard the skin, given that it is edible and biodegradable. This pollution reducing product has since been used at other major sporting events including the Zevenheuvelenloop marathon in the Netherlands and the Göteborgsvarvet half-marathon in Sweden. It also fills vending machines at the London Aquatics Centre. Limitations of Edible Packaging While the idea of getting water from an edible package might seem to be a clever way to replace the ubiquitous plastic variety—a million bottles are sold every minute—the Ooho isn’t quite ready for that. The package is designed for a single gulp rather than the portability and volume that plastic allows. Its delicate membrane also isn’t great for storing in a grocery store without extra packaging, which defeats its original purpose. Yet despite its present limitations, there’s plenty of opportunity, as well as impetus, for further development and improvement. Other challenges [of edible films] include higher vulnerability to heat, requiring another layer (typically plastic) to protect it from contamination, and higher production costs. Edible packaging is generally made from edible biopolymers (proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides), plasticizers, or food-grade additives. Their materials include coatings, films, pouches, and sheets. The films should be a good barrier of oxygen (to slow decay), water, and aroma. Compared to PET/PS films, edible films tend to have disadvantages of lower tensile strength and higher water vapor permeability, while having the advantage of higher resistance to oxygen permeability. Other challenges include higher vulnerability to heat, requiring another layer (typically plastic) to protect it from contamination, and higher production costs. Meanwhile, lipid-based films can be made from fatty acids (monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides), waxes (such as paraffin), and other oils (such as palm and peanut), raising health concerns. Packaging Revisited in History Despite numerous public campaigns to raise awareness of plastic waste, it has continued to rise. A report from the Minderoo Foundation revealed that between 2019 and 2021 the amount of plastic waste rose by 6 million metric tons (6.6 million tons) with recycling unable to scale up quickly enough. With no clear sign that people will give up single-use plastics, science has been looking to the past to solve this 21st century problem. While it might seem modern, edible packaging was being used to protect our food 600 years before plastic was ever invented. The first known example of edible film used for food preservation was made in the fifteenth century from soymilk (Yuba) in Japan. In the 1930s, emulsions and waxes were developed to coat fruits, with the purpose of improving their appearance, controlling the ripening process, and decreasing the loss of water. By the 1960s, however, comestible packaging had limited commercial appeal and was mainly used as wax coatings on fruit and vegetables. A Review of Edible Packaging Methods But as environmental crises have a way of re-focusing the mind, scientists across the world have returned to these old ideas, making incredible advances by using different edible foodstuffs for a variety of purposes as outlined in Edible Food Packaging, edited by Amrita Poonia and Tejpal Dhewa. These include a remarkable range of edible packaging products that can replace plastic varieties. A multitude of products can be made from fruit residues alone, revealing the potential usefulness of unwanted food. Some of the methods being trialed include a film made from peach puree that can create an oxygen barrier to preserve nuts, confections and baked goods; peel from pomelos that delays oxidation and increases the shelf life of soybean oil; and a pulp formed from arrowroot starch and blackberry that promotes the stability of anthocyanins (a type of antioxidant) found in grapes, apples, and cabbage, making them easier to handle and more attractive to the consumer. The beauty of using fruit and vegetable waste is that these products are plentiful, as they have the highest percentage of waste amongst all foodstuffs. However, thus far, many of these products are not as efficient as those created from plastic and also take longer to apply to the food being preserved. For these and other reason, Poonia and Dhewa believe comestible packaging is not yet able to function alone in the market: “Edible films and coatings cannot entirely replace synthetic packaging. Usually, secondary packaging is necessary for handling and hygienic practices.” “Edible films and coatings cannot entirely replace synthetic packaging. Usually, secondary packaging is necessary for handling and hygienic practices.” They believe there is a need to combine synthetic and natural packaging: “In this sense, it is important to apply eco-friendly food preservatives to control the loss of the nutritional value of the perishable foods and to reduce the requirements and waste of conventional packaging, improving the economic efficiency of packaging materials.” Making Edible Packaging Consumer-Friendly Of course, as a marketable product, there would be no point in creating edible packaging options if consumers won’t buy them, but two recent studies on public perceptions have been positive. One study published this year evaluated consumer attitude, acceptability and purchasing intentions of 100 participants in Portland, Oregon. The participants were asked to evaluate three types of edible food packaging: muffin liners, cranberry pomace fruit leather wraps, and powdered drink sachets. All were rated positively by the participants, with two-thirds saying they would buy all three products if they came to market. A 2021 study of a similarly sized group of consumers in Indonesia were asked to try a chili powder that came in an edible gelatine package. It, too, received a positive response, with the consumers highly likely to replace their current unbiodegradable packaging with the new edible product. If these innovative modern scientists and manufacturers can create edible, biodegradable packaging that is lightweight and easy to transport, then a path to dent the use of single-use plastics may be opened. Biodegradable or edible packaging has the potential to become as commonplace as banana skins. Meanwhile, conscientious consumers can do their bit to prevent plastic waste by reusing, reducing, recycling the plastic containers used, or eliminating their use altogether. *Gordon Cairns is a freelance journalist and teacher of English and Forest Schools based in Scotland.

Report Highlights Hope in Conservation Efforts in Bird Populations BirdLife International is a charity that is the “official scientific source of information on birds” for the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List of Threatened Species. In its 2024 annual update, BirdLife International reported improvement for a few species but greater pressure on 11 other species. In the 2023 Red List, 11 species were uplisted to higher threat categories while 4 were downlisted to lower threat categories. Overall, the number of species in the critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, and near threatened categories declined, respectively, by 1 (to 232), 8 (to 405), 37 (to 717), and 51 (to 940), since the previous year’s assessment. However, many of these changes were reclassifications based on improved knowledge about the species rather than a change in status. Out of 14 threats to birds, the top five are agriculture (73%), logging (51%), invasive species (42%), hunting and trapping (39%), and climate change and severe weather (37%). The global outbreak of a H5N1 variant of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) resulted in the death or destruction of about 0.5 billion poultry and impacted more than 400 bird species in 2021 to 2023. Examples of species include the Peruvian Booby (over 47,500 deaths), Cape Cormorant (over 20,000 deaths), and Common Crane (over 5,000 deaths). Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) are areas identified as homes to “critical populations of the world’s threatened species.” In 2023, over 43% of each KBA was covered by protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures compared with 11% in 1980. However, this figure is on a peaking trend from 2020. The four downlisted bird species include three Asian stork species (Greater Adjutant Leptoptilos dubius, Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus and Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala) whose local communities worked to preserve them. Also, in Hawaii, the Millerbird Acrocephalus familiaris was relocated to the island of Laysan a decade ago and now has a self-sustaining population; this allowed it to be downlisted from Critically Endangered to Endangered. The 11 species uplisted included two of Hawaii’s honeycreepers, which were impacted by avian malaria carried by invasive mosquitoes, and the Juan Fernandez Tit-tyrant Anairetes fernandezianus, which lives in an island near Chile and is threatened by invasive plants and predators. Other species in South America and South-East Asian were uplisted due to forest loss. Sources: https://datazone.birdlife.org/2024-annual-update https://www.keybiodiversityareas.org/about-kbas/saving-nature Individual case studies: https://datazone.birdlife.org/sowb/casestudy/over-half-of-forest-within-kbas-identified-for-forest-species-no-longer-has-high-integrity https://datazone.birdlife.org/sowb/casestudy/an-unprecedented-global-epizootic-of-avian-influenza-is-causing-mass-mortality-of-wild-birds

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

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

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

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