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  4. Despite the current bleak economic situation, the number of bicycles sold in Germany continued to grow last year, new market data from the German bicycle association (ZIV) shows. And for the first time ever, the sale of electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, has surpassed regular bikes in the country. In 2023, electric bicycles accounted for 53% of total bicycle sales. The average cost of these e-bikes saw an increase, climbing from €2,600 in 2020 to €2,950 in the previous year. With 2.1 million e-bikes sold compared to 1.9 million conventional bicycles, this reflects a significant trend in one of Europe’s key bicycle markets. "The rising mobility, energy, rent and living costs, coupled with a growing environmental and health awareness, are conditions that boost the popularity of bicycles and e-bikes – both now and undoubtedly also in the future," says ZIV CEO Burkhard Stork. This is good news and hopefully this trend continues and spreads throughout Europe so that policymakers starts to treat bikes as a serious and important transportation mode. Have you purchased a new bike recently - and was it perhaps an e-bike?
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  7. Simon

    Best Renewable energy system?

    Good summary of various energy sources, except nuclear energy is not really "renewable" energy. And I doubt @Sami Hadi can install it at home.
  8. digitalthinkerhelp

    How to make your garden more eco-friendly?

    To make your garden more eco-friendly, consider implementing the following sustainable practices: Water Conservation: Use water wisely by incorporating practices like monitoring the weather forecast to avoid unnecessary watering, utilizing rain barrels to collect and store rainwater, applying organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, installing rain sensors on irrigation systems, and opting for drought-resistant and native plant species that require minimal water. Reduce the Use of Harmful Chemicals: Avoid harmful chemicals by using eco-friendly alternatives for pest and weed control. Examples include using neem oil for pest treatment, mixing blood and bone meal into the soil as a natural deterrent, encouraging natural predators like ladybugs, praying mantises, and spiders, practicing companion planting to deter pests naturally, and rotating crops to disrupt pest life cycles. Waste Less Water: Reduce water waste by watering efficiently, using rain gauges to measure rainfall, opting for hoses or drip irrigation systems over sprinklers to minimize water loss, collecting seeds for regrowth in subsequent seasons, mulching garden beds to regulate temperature and retain moisture, setting up rain barrel systems for water collection, and controlling runoff. Use Less Energy: Minimize outdoor energy use by choosing energy-efficient gardening practices such as using solar-powered lights or tools, reducing reliance on power equipment where possible, and opting for manual tools or renewable energy sources in the garden. Choose Appropriate Plants: Select plants that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions to reduce water usage and maintenance requirements. Planting native species can also support local ecosystems by attracting beneficial wildlife and pollinators. Mulch Your Gardens: Mulching is essential for maintaining a healthy garden by regulating temperature, retaining moisture, suppressing weeds, preventing erosion, and reducing the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Adding organic mulch around plants can significantly improve soil health and sustainability. Keep Learning: Stay informed about sustainable gardening practices by continuing to research new methods that can positively impact your garden's environmental footprint. Embracing new discoveries and techniques can help you maintain a healthy and sustainable garden ecosystem.
  9. digitalthinkerhelp

    Is It Possible to Sell Plant Waste for Money?

    Yes! It is possible to sell plant waste for money, as highlighted in various sources discussing the business opportunities related to waste products like compost, manure, and soil. Selling plant waste, such as composted material, manure, or soil enriched with nutrients, can be a profitable venture for farmers, gardeners, and businesses involved in waste management. By converting plant waste into valuable products like fertilizer, compost, or soil amendments, individuals can generate income by selling these products to farms, individuals for gardening, landscaping, or even to local businesses. The process of turning plant waste into marketable products involves composting, creating high-quality compost, and meeting the demand for organic fertilizers and soil enhancers in the agricultural and gardening sectors. Additionally, selling plant waste products like compost or manure to local farms, landscaping projects, or directly to consumers can be a sustainable and lucrative business opportunity, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic viability.
  10. digitalthinkerhelp

    Japanese wooden satellite to tackle space debris

    The Japanese wooden satellite project aims to address the growing concerns of space debris by introducing satellites made of wood. These wooden satellites, such as the LignoSat, are designed to burn up completely upon reentry into the Earth's atmosphere, unlike metal satellites that can release harmful substances and debris. The use of wood in satellites is seen as a more environmentally friendly option that could help reduce the impact of space junk on Earth and in orbit. Researchers have conducted tests on different types of wood, including magnolia, cherry, and birch, to assess their resilience in space conditions. The project involves collaboration between Kyoto University, Sumitomo Forestry, Japan's space agency (JAXA), and NASA, with plans to launch the wooden satellite into orbit in the near future. The potential benefits of wooden satellites include their biodegradability and lower environmental impact compared to traditional metal satellites, offering a novel approach to space technology that prioritizes sustainability and safety.
  11. digitalthinkerhelp

    How green is nuclear power?

    Nuclear power is a complex topic when it comes to its environmental impact. While nuclear power is considered a low-carbon energy source that can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, there are significant concerns regarding its overall "greenness." The full life cycle of nuclear energy includes issues such as resource extraction, waste production, and safety risks that need to be considered when evaluating its environmental sustainability. Nuclear power is often classified as environmentally sustainable due to its low carbon emissions during electricity generation. However, the construction phase, resource extraction (such as uranium mining), waste production, and safety risks associated with nuclear power plants raise environmental concerns. The management of radioactive waste, the potential for accidents, and the environmental impact of the nuclear fuel cycle are critical factors to consider when assessing the overall "greenness" of nuclear power. While nuclear energy can provide low-carbon electricity, the challenges of waste disposal, resource scarcity (e.g., uranium-235), and safety risks must be addressed to ensure its environmental sustainability. The debate around nuclear power's environmental impact continues, with proponents highlighting its low-carbon benefits and critics emphasizing the risks and challenges associated with its full life cycle.
  12. digitalthinkerhelp

    Best Renewable energy system?

    The best renewable energy systems include wind power, geothermal energy, hydroelectricity, nuclear power, and solar power. Wind power is considered the most efficient renewable energy source that is followed by geothermal, hydro, nuclear, and solar energy. Wind energy is highly efficient, with wind turbines being able to generate electricity in open areas, making up a significant portion of US electrical production potential by 2050. Geothermal energy is reliable and consistent, providing a predictable power source with lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel power plants. Hydroelectricity, harnessed from falling or flowing water, is a mature technology with predictable energy generation and additional recreational benefits from dam reservoirs. Nuclear power, although controversial, is also efficient in terms of energy production. Solar power, while widely accessible on a consumer scale, is another key renewable energy source contributing to the clean energy revolution.
  13. An early plan for long-term burial of spent nuclear fuel was to put it in the Arctic since the ice was "permanent". That might have seemed like a good idea back at the time. But now climate change may unearth it. This article highlights the potential impact of climate change on radioactive contamination from American nuclear tests conducted after World War II. As temperatures rise and ice sheets melt, the legacy of nuclear activity may resurface, posing environmental risks in various countries. Read it: https://www.iflscience.com/the-us-left-nuclear-waste-around-the-world-now-climate-change-may-unearth-it-73226
  14. The oil industry MUST keep producing more and more plastic. They are in a losing game. Given the steady shift toward renewable energy, it's their only sure way to keep making billions of dollars in profits. All of these plastic... It is truly horrifying. Everywhere we go, everywhere we look, plastic confronts us and surrounds us. It's even in the food we eat, and now inside our bodies. Many people might assume that it's always been like this. But it hasn't. Just a couple of decades ago food was packed in a variety of materials. We don't need plastic!
  15. I keep hearing them yell at us: "Stop being a doomer! You have to give people hope!" To which I respond with what Greta Thunberg says: "I don't want your hope. I don't want you to be hopeful. I want you to panic. I want you to feel the fear I feel every day. And then I want you to act!" Along those lines, I strongly recommend this thought-provoking essay in which climate campaigner Jonathon Porritt highlights a concerning trend among mainstream climate scientists: by perpetually emphasizing positivity and hope, they inadvertently risk assuming the role of the new climate deniers. Here is a brief summary: 1. The speed with which the climate is now changing is faster than (almost) all scientists thought possible. 2. There is now zero prospect of holding the average temperature increase this century to below 1.5°C; even 2°C is beginning to slip out of reach. The vast majority of climate scientists know this, but rarely if ever give voice to this critically important reality. 3. At the same time, the vast majority of people still haven’t a clue about what’s going on – and what this means for them and everything they hold dear. 4. The current backlash against existing (already wholly inadequate) climate measures is also accelerating – and will cause considerable political damage in 2024. Those driving this backlash represent the same old climate denial that has been so damaging over so many years. 5. The science-based institutions on which we depend to address this crisis have comprehensively failed us. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is incapable of telling the whole truth about accelerating climate change; the Conference of the Parties (under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change) has been co-opted by the fossil fuel lobby to the point of total corruption. 6. By not calling out these incontrovertible realities, mainstream scientists are at risk of becoming the new climate deniers. Read it here: https://www.jonathonporritt.com/mainstream-climate-science-the-new-denialism/
  16. As the world grapples with issues like climate change, deforestation, and habitat loss, planting trees emerges as a practical and effective solution to mitigate these problems. This article delves into the significance of tree plantation and its multifaceted benefits. First and foremost, trees are indispensable in maintaining the ecological balance of our planet. They act as natural air filters, absorbing harmful gases such as carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. This oxygen is essential for all living beings, including humans, and helps in purifying the air we breathe. Furthermore, trees play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas responsible for global warming. By absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, trees help in reducing the overall concentration of greenhouse gases and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. Moreover, tree plantation is instrumental in preventing soil erosion and conserving water resources. The roots of trees bind the soil together, thereby preventing erosion caused by wind and water. This is particularly important in regions prone to soil degradation and desertification. Additionally, trees play a vital role in regulating the water cycle by absorbing water from the soil and releasing it into the atmosphere through a process known as transpiration. This process helps in maintaining adequate moisture levels in the soil and preventing water runoff, thus contributing to groundwater recharge and sustainable water management. Furthermore, trees provide invaluable ecosystem services and support biodiversity conservation. Forests serve as habitats for numerous plant and animal species, playing a crucial role in supporting diverse ecosystems. By planting trees, we can create and restore habitats for wildlife, thereby promoting biodiversity conservation. In addition, trees provide food and shelter for various organisms, contributing to the overall health and resilience of ecosystems. Another significant benefit of tree plantation is its contribution to enhancing the quality of life for human communities. Trees have been shown to have a positive impact on mental and physical health, with studies indicating that exposure to green spaces can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Urban tree planting initiatives can help in creating green spaces in cities, providing recreational opportunities for residents and improving the aesthetic appeal of urban areas. Additionally, trees can help in mitigating the urban heat island effect by providing shade and reducing temperatures in urban environments. In conclusion, tree plantation is a critical component of efforts aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and addressing various ecological challenges. From mitigating climate change to conserving biodiversity and improving human well-being, the benefits of planting trees are numerous and far-reaching. It is essential for individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize tree plantation initiatives and work together towards creating a greener and healthier planet for present and future generations. By harnessing the power of tree plantation, we can make significant strides towards achieving a more sustainable and resilient world.
  17. Yes, the LignoSat satellite is approximately the size of a coffee mug. I wonder if they will make bigger wooden satellites if this one is successful?
  18. Unfortunately yes, so it seems. That's why we should try to avoid single-use plastics as much as we can and - I can't stress this enough - still recycle the plastics that we do use. That is still much better than to just give up and throw it away. Remember the 3 R's: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle!
  19. So the only real negative aspect of plant based alternatives are that they probably contain too much salt. No big deal imho.
  20. Haha a tiny little wooden box full of tech. Cool story tho 😎
  21. Plastic recycling is a scam and you can NEVER trust oil companies!
  22. Sanjo

    Alternatives

  23. It's truly disheartening to learn about the deceitful practices of the plastics industry regarding recycling. This report sheds light on how these companies have been aware for decades that recycling plastic isn't a viable solution, yet they've continued to market it as such. It's appalling to think about the environmental damage caused by their actions. With only a small fraction of plastic waste actually being recycled each year, it's evident that we need to prioritize reducing our reliance on single-use plastics altogether. While it's challenging to completely avoid them, opting for products with recycled plastic or packaging is a step in the right direction. It's high time these companies are held accountable for their deceptive practices and the harm they've caused to our planet.
  24. Recycling plastic, which originates from oil and gas, presents substantial hurdles due to the need for meticulous sorting. This is because most of the thousands of chemically distinct plastic varieties cannot be recycled together. And a new report, published by the the Center for Climate Integrity (CCI), shows that the plastics industry has known for more than 30 years that recycling plastic is not technically feasible or an economically sustainable solution - yet, they have continued to market and promote the plastic products as recyclable. In doing so, these oil and petrochemical companies have enabled the single-use plastics industry to expand, while potentially breaking consumer laws designed to protect the public from misleading marketing and avoiding waste management and pollution regulations. “The companies lied,” said Richard Wiles, president of the Center for Climate Integrity (CCI). “It’s time to hold them accountable for the damage they’ve caused.” According to Our World in Data, only around nine percent of the world’s yearly plastic waste is effectively recycled. So clearly, the best way to reduce plastic pollution is to completely avoid single-use plastics. But this can be tough, so it is still better to continue to recycle plastic and to shop for products that either contain recycled plastic or use it for their packaging.
  25. Entertaining, I read your article and I thoroughly enjoyed reading your insightful blog! Your blog provides valuable insights, and I love your engaging writing style. Keep up the great work!. Looking forward to more information and updates!
  26. Sustainable fashion has evolved from a niche movement to a mainstream trend, with consumers increasingly prioritizing ethical and eco-friendly practices in their purchasing decisions. As the fashion industry grapples with the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion, designers, brands, and consumers alike are driving innovation and pushing boundaries to create a more sustainable future. Sustainability is among the strongest forces driving the sector forward. In this article, we explore some of the latest developments in sustainable fashion, from innovative materials to circular economy initiatives. 1. Advancements in Sustainable Materials One of the most significant developments in sustainable fashion is the proliferation of innovative materials that minimize environmental impact and promote ethical production practices. From plant-based alternatives to recycled fibers, designers are exploring a wide range of materials to reduce reliance on conventional textiles such as cotton and polyester, which are notorious for their environmental footprint. One notable advancement is the development of lab-grown or "biofabricated" materials, which are produced using biological processes rather than traditional agricultural methods. These materials, such as lab-grown leather and silk, offer a cruelty-free and environmentally friendly alternative to animal-derived textiles. Additionally, advancements in textile recycling technologies have enabled the production of fabrics made from post-consumer waste, such as plastic bottles and discarded garments, further reducing the fashion industry's reliance on virgin resources. 2. Embracing the Circular Economy Principles The concept of the circular economy, which aims to minimize waste and maximize the value of resources through reuse, recycling, and regeneration, has gained traction within the fashion industry. Brands are increasingly adopting circular economy principles in their design, production, and business models to reduce waste and extend the lifespan of garments. One key development is the rise of rental and resale platforms, which allow consumers to access fashion while minimizing the environmental impact of ownership. By renting or buying secondhand clothing, consumers can reduce the demand for new garments and contribute to a more circular fashion ecosystem. Moreover, brands are exploring innovative ways to design for longevity and durability, such as modular or repairable clothing, to ensure that garments can be worn for as long as possible before being recycled or repurposed. 3. Transparency and Ethical Sourcing Transparency and ethical sourcing have become integral components of sustainable fashion, as consumers increasingly demand visibility into the social and environmental practices of brands. In response, many companies are implementing robust supply chain traceability systems to ensure that their products are produced under fair and environmentally responsible conditions. Blockchain technology, in particular, has emerged as a powerful tool for supply chain transparency, enabling brands to track the journey of a garment from raw material to finished product. By providing immutable records of transactions and processes, blockchain technology helps brands verify the authenticity of sustainable claims and hold suppliers accountable for their practices. 4. Adoption of Sustainable Practices by Mainstream Brands While sustainable fashion has historically been associated with niche and independent brands, mainstream retailers are increasingly embracing eco-friendly practices and integrating sustainability into their business strategies. Recognizing the growing consumer demand for ethical and environmentally responsible products, large corporations are investing in sustainable initiatives, from sourcing organic cotton to reducing carbon emissions in their supply chains. Some brands are also exploring innovative business models, such as clothing rental and subscription services, to align with consumer preferences for access over ownership. By diversifying their offerings and embracing sustainable practices, mainstream brands can appeal to a broader audience while contributing to positive environmental and social change. 5. Collaboration and Industry Initiatives Collaboration and collective action are essential drivers of progress in sustainable fashion. Industry initiatives, such as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition and the Fashion Pact, bring together brands, manufacturers, NGOs, and other stakeholders to address common challenges and drive systemic change. Through collaborative efforts, participants can share best practices, develop industry standards, and work towards common goals, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, eliminating hazardous chemicals, and promoting ethical labor practices. By pooling resources and expertise, these initiatives have the potential to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry. In conclusion, sustainable fashion is undergoing a period of rapid evolution, with advancements in materials, circular economy practices, transparency, mainstream adoption, and collaborative initiatives driving positive change across the industry. As consumers continue to prioritize ethical and eco-friendly products, brands and designers are rising to the challenge, innovating and implementing sustainable solutions that promote environmental stewardship and social responsibility. By embracing sustainability as a core value and collaborating towards common goals, the fashion industry can pave the way for a more sustainable future. Image by atlascompany on Freepik
  27. In an effort to reduce litter in space, scientists in Japan have created the world's first satellite made of wood. The biodegradable satellite is made of magnolia wood, which in experiments on the ISS proved to be particularly resistant to cracks, and offers an environmentally friendly alternative to the metal that satellites are currently made of. The satellite, developed in collaboration between universities in Kyoto, Japan, and a forestry company, is supposed to be launched from the USA later this summer. "All the satellites which re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere burn and create tiny alumina particles, which will float in the upper atmosphere for many years. Eventually, it will affect the environment of the Earth," Takao Doi, a Japanese astronaut and aerospace engineer, warned recently, the Guardian reports.
  28. A new study from the Stockholm Resilience Centre, published in the academic journal Nature Communications, shows that plant-based alternatives are better than meat when it comes to your health, the planet, and in many cases even your wallet. The researchers, from the Centre and University of Oxford, looked at the environmental, nutritional and cost implications of various diets where meat from animal sources were replaced by their respective plant-based alternatives. The results showed that plant-based diets are better for the planet, good for your health, and cost about the same as what the average consumer in Sweden pays for “traditional” food today. “The best thing you can do for the planet, your own health, and your wallet is to switch to a largely plant-based diet. If you find it easier to switch to plant-based alternatives that look and feel like meat, fish, or dairy, that’s okay,” says Anne Charlotte Bunge, lead author of the study and researcher at the Stockholm Resilience Centre at Stockholm University. For consumers in Sweden, switching to more plant-based diets is cost-competitive with the current average meat-diet and would be even cheaper if they switched to plant-based whole foods. A diet consisting of a variety of plant-based vegan alternative foods also meets nutritional recommendations in Sweden. The study found that such a plant-based diet also meets most of the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations. This could partly be explained by the fact that it’s mandatory in Sweden for companies to enrich certain foods with micronutrients such as vitamin D and calcium. “Because of that, processed Swedish plant-based alternatives often have a nutritional content similar to the animal-based food they intend to replace. For example, oat drink has a similar calcium level as dairy milk,” Bunge explains. The study also concluded, like many other studies have done, that a vegetarian and vegan diet are much better for the environment and our climate. Switching to a plant-based diet – both plant-based alternatives and whole foods – lowered greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50 percent. The study also showed that plant-based diets need much less agricultural land and reduced water usage compared to more “traditional” meat diets.
  29. Simon

    Inexpensive healthy food

    Everything seems expensive these days, with the inflation and the global economy tanking and all that. But I think that a vegetarian/vegan diet is generally less expensive than a meat-heavy diet. Such a diet is also much healthier - for both you and the planet!
  30. I have been contemplating the switch to an electric vehicle (EV) and, undeniably, the environmental benefits are clear. The reduced reliance on fossil fuels and lower emissions from EVs contribute significantly to 'making the world green'. However, I am curious about the broader spectrum of benefits that owning an EV might offer, particularly from a personal or financial perspective. Could EV ownership extend benefits beyond environmental conservation specially in terms of financially?
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