#Contamination Remediation

[smithlee1221]

Contamination Assessment | Integrated Environmental

Integrated Environmental specialises in thorough land contamination assessments across Sydney. We analyse soil and groundwater to detect and quantify pollutants. Our detailed reports guide you through the remediation process, ensuring your property meets environmental standards.

[delta-remediation]

Unearthing the Power of Soil Remediation: A Promising Path towards Environmental Sustainability

The health of our planet is intricately linked to the quality of its soil, an aspect that is often overlooked. Soil pollution presents a significant environmental concern, affecting agricultural productivity, water quality, and ultimately, human health. However, the innovative field of soil remediation holds the key to reclaiming contaminated land and fostering a sustainable future.

Soil remediation, a sector of environmental science, focuses on purifying and revitalizing the soil. It encompasses various techniques to remove harmful pollutants, such as heavy metals, petroleum products, pesticides, and more, from contaminated soil. The ultimate aim is to restore the soil to a state where it can once again support healthy growth and biodiversity.

There are several methods of soil remediation, each tailored to the type and extent of soil contamination.

1. Excavation and Disposal

As a direct approach, this method involves physically removing the contaminated soil and disposing of it in designated landfills. Although it's an immediate solution, it merely transfers the contamination issue from one place to another, leading to concerns about its environmental sustainability.

2. Soil Washing

This technique uses water, sometimes mixed with other substances, to wash away contaminants. It's particularly effective for treating soils contaminated with heavy metals or certain kinds of organic pollutants. However, the process requires treatment of the resulting washwater to avoid secondary contamination.

3. Bioremediation

One of the most promising soil remediation strategies, bioremediation, employs natural processes to clean up contaminated soil. Specific microorganisms or plants (phytoremediation) are used to absorb, break down, or immobilize contaminants. This method is eco-friendly and holds great potential for large-scale applications.

4. Thermal Desorption

Thermal desorption involves heating soil to evaporate the pollutants, which are then collected and treated separately. This process is ideal for soils contaminated with volatile organic compounds, but it requires substantial energy input.

Soil remediation's significance extends far beyond environmental preservation. Healthy soil is critical for a functioning ecosystem, contributing to plant growth, water filtration, and climate regulation. Moreover, with the escalating global population, the need for arable land is at an all-time high. Through soil remediation, previously unusable land can be restored, strengthening food security and promoting sustainable land use.

Simultaneously, soil remediation helps protect groundwater resources. Soil acts as a natural filter, and contaminants present in the soil can leach into groundwater over time, posing serious health risks. By removing these pollutants, soil remediation safeguards our water supply.

In the grand scheme of climate change, soil remediation plays a pivotal role. Soil holds three times as much carbon as the atmosphere. Techniques like bioremediation not only remove contaminants but also improve soil health, increasing its capacity to store carbon and thereby helping to mitigate climate change.

In conclusion, soil remediation is not merely a sector of environmental science; it is a tool of hope for our planet. It embodies the mantra of "heal the soil, heal the planet," and underscores our responsibility to protect the environment. With continued research and technological advancements in soil remediation techniques, we can make strides towards a sustainable future.

Let's invest in soil remediation - for our health, for our food, and for our planet.

[joeoliver]

Soil Contamination

Soil testing is a vital process for assessing the quality and composition of soil, while soil contamination refers to the presence of harmful substances in the soil, posing risks to environmental and human health.

Visit here: https://www.sers.net.au/contaminated-land-services/soil-testing/

[wausaupilot]

Toxic chemicals and cleanup efforts on next 'Route 51'

Tune in at 10 a.m. Jan. 26.

WAUSAU – Communities throughout Wisconsin are grappling with ways to deal with contaminated water and soil after new research that suggests PFAS, dioxin and other toxic chemicals can have significant implications on public health. As scientists continue to work toward a better understanding of the risks involved, regulators are monitoring cleanup efforts, which can be costly and difficult to…

[simpletank]

Addressing Groundwater Contamination in NJ | Simple Tank Services

Simple Tank Services is dedicated to addressing and resolving groundwater contamination issues in New Jersey. With our specialized expertise, we provide comprehensive solutions to ensure environmental safety and compliance. If you're dealing with concerns about Groundwater Contamination NJ, trust our experienced team for efficient and effective remediation. Contact us today to safeguard your property and the environment from groundwater contamination challenges in New Jersey.

[greenthestral]

From Black Water to Clear Water: The Remarkable Journey of Environmental Restoration

Understanding the Problem: The Issue of Black Water

Black water, with its ominous name, evokes images of pollution and contamination that have become a growing concern in many regions across the globe. It refers to water bodies that have become heavily polluted, resulting in a dark, murky appearance that stands in stark contrast to the clarity and vibrancy of healthy water ecosystems. This phenomenon is primarily caused by the accumulation of various pollutants, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage.

The consequences of black water extend far beyond its visual impact. The pollution present in black water wreaks havoc on aquatic ecosystems, leading to severe ecological imbalances and devastating consequences. As pollutants infiltrate water bodies, they disrupt the delicate balance of life within the water, depleting oxygen levels and impeding the growth and survival of aquatic organisms. The effects ripple through the entire food chain, resulting in the decline of fish populations, the loss of habitat for aquatic plants and animals, and a significant reduction in overall biodiversity.

Moreover, the dangers associated with black water extend beyond ecological concerns and pose a substantial risk to human health. The polluted water can harbor harmful pathogens and toxic chemicals that can have dire consequences for those who come into contact with it. When people consume or come in contact with black water, they face the risk of contracting waterborne diseases, experiencing skin irritations, and even suffering from long-term health issues due to the exposure to toxic substances.

Industrial activities, including manufacturing and mining, often contribute to the pollution that transforms water bodies into black water. Discharge from factories, improper waste management, and the release of untreated or inadequately treated effluents into waterways significantly contribute to the accumulation of pollutants. Similarly, agricultural practices play a significant role in polluting water bodies, as chemical fertilizers and pesticides from farmlands can be washed away by rainfall, contaminating rivers, lakes, and other water sources. The improper disposal of sewage and the absence of adequate wastewater treatment facilities also contribute to the blackening of water bodies, as untreated or partially treated sewage finds its way into natural water systems.

Addressing the issue of black water and restoring polluted water bodies require a comprehensive and multidimensional approach. Environmental awareness and education are vital components in tackling the problem at its root. By increasing public awareness about the importance of clean water and the consequences of pollution, individuals can be encouraged to adopt more responsible practices and actively contribute to the preservation of water resources.

Governments and regulatory bodies also have a critical role to play in implementing and enforcing effective policies and regulations. Stricter regulations regarding industrial waste management, wastewater treatment, and agricultural practices can help curb the pollution that leads to black water. Additionally, monitoring programs and stringent enforcement of pollution control measures are necessary to ensure compliance and hold accountable those who contribute to water pollution.

The development and implementation of advanced treatment technologies are essential in the restoration of black water bodies. Cutting-edge filtration systems, such as activated carbon filters and membrane bioreactors, can effectively remove contaminants and pollutants, helping to restore water quality. Biological methods, such as constructed wetlands and bioaugmentation, also offer promising avenues for the restoration of polluted water bodies. These natural processes utilize the power of plants and microorganisms to filter and cleanse the water, promoting the recovery of ecosystems.

Furthermore, restoring riparian zones and wetlands plays a pivotal role in rehabilitating black water areas. Riparian zones, the transitional areas between land and water, and wetlands serve as natural filters and buffers, trapping sediment and pollutants before they enter water bodies. Protecting and restoring these valuable ecosystems can significantly contribute to improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, and establishing sustainable environments.

While the challenges associated with black water restoration are considerable, several success stories provide hope and inspiration. Lake Washington in the United States serves as a notable example. Once heavily polluted and suffering from black water, Lake Washington underwent a remarkable transformation through the implementation of wastewater treatment facilities, stormwater management plans, and habitat restoration projects. Today, it stands as a testament to successful environmental restoration, supporting diverse aquatic life and serving as a valuable recreational resource for the community.

Similarly, the Thames River in the United Kingdom, once infamous for being a "dead river" due to severe pollution, has seen significant improvements. Through collaborative efforts involving government agencies, environmental organizations, and local communities, the river has undergone extensive restoration. Strict regulations, water quality monitoring programs, and pollution control measures have contributed to the recovery of the river's health, turning it into a thriving ecosystem that stands as a symbol of successful environmental restoration.

Black water represents a pressing environmental issue that threatens the health and vitality of water bodies worldwide. Its accumulation of pollutants, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage, leads to severe ecological imbalances and poses risks to both aquatic life and human health. However, through a comprehensive approach that includes awareness, education, policy implementation, advanced treatment technologies, and ecosystem restoration, it is possible to restore black water bodies to their former clarity and vibrancy. By working together and embracing our responsibility as stewards of the environment, we can pave the way for a future where black water becomes a thing of the past, replaced by thriving, clear water ecosystems that benefit both nature and society.

The Path to Restoration: Environmental Challenges and Solutions

Addressing the problem of black water requires a multifaceted approach that combines environmental awareness, scientific research, and effective policy implementation. Various strategies can be employed to restore polluted water bodies and transform them into clear, vibrant ecosystems once again.

Identifying the Sources of Pollution: The first step in restoring black water is to identify and address the sources of pollution. This may involve conducting thorough water quality assessments and monitoring programs to determine the specific pollutants present. By understanding the root causes, authorities can develop targeted strategies to reduce or eliminate pollution at its source.

Implementing Effective Waste Management Practices: Proper waste management is crucial in preventing pollution and restoring water quality. Industries must adopt responsible practices, such as treating their effluent before releasing it into water bodies. Similarly, agricultural practices should focus on minimizing runoff by implementing erosion control measures and adopting sustainable farming techniques. Encouraging individuals to dispose of waste properly and promoting recycling initiatives can also contribute to a cleaner environment.

Developing Advanced Treatment Technologies: To combat black water, innovative treatment technologies are essential. Advanced filtration systems, such as activated carbon filters and membrane bioreactors, can help remove contaminants and pollutants effectively. Additionally, the use of biological methods, such as constructed wetlands and bioaugmentation, can aid in restoring the ecological balance of polluted water bodies.

Restoring Riparian Zones and Wetlands: Restoring riparian zones and wetlands plays a crucial role in rehabilitating black water areas. These habitats act as natural filters, removing pollutants and sediments from water. By restoring and protecting these valuable ecosystems, we can enhance water quality, promote biodiversity, and create a sustainable environment.

Success Stories: Transforming Black Water into Clear Water

While the challenges associated with black water restoration are substantial, several success stories offer hope and inspiration. These projects demonstrate that with dedicated efforts and the implementation of effective strategies, it is possible to turn black water into clear, thriving ecosystems.

Lake Washington, United States: Lake Washington, once plagued by pollution and excess nutrients, underwent a remarkable transformation. By implementing wastewater treatment facilities, stormwater management plans, and habitat restoration projects, the water quality improved significantly. Today, Lake Washington is a thriving ecosystem, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal species.

Thames River, United Kingdom: The Thames River in London was once heavily polluted, earning the infamous reputation of being a "dead river." However, concerted efforts by various stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental organizations, and local communities, have led to substantial improvements. Strict regulations, water quality monitoring programs, and pollution control measures have helped restore the river's health. Today, the Thames River is teeming with life, and it serves as a vibrant symbol of successful environmental restoration.

The Call for Action: Everyone's Responsibility

While these success stories offer hope, the battle against black water is far from over. It requires collective action and individual responsibility to ensure the continued restoration and preservation of our water bodies.

Promoting Environmental Education: Educating the public about the importance of clean water and the detrimental effects of pollution is crucial. By raising awareness and promoting environmental education, we can empower individuals to make informed choices and take actions that protect water resources.

Advocating for Stronger Policies: Governments and policymakers play a pivotal role in addressing black water. Stronger regulations and policies are necessary to enforce pollution control measures, encourage sustainable practices, and hold industries accountable for their actions. Individuals can contribute by supporting environmental advocacy groups and actively participating in public consultations and campaigns.

Engaging in Sustainable Practices: Each individual can make a difference by adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives. Conserving water, properly disposing of waste, and reducing the use of harmful chemicals are simple yet effective steps that contribute to water conservation and pollution prevention.

The Journey Continues: A Clear Future for Our Water

As we strive to restore black water and transform it into clear water, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to environmental stewardship. By implementing effective strategies, sharing knowledge, and fostering a sense of responsibility, we can create a future where polluted water bodies are a thing of the past.

Together, we can ensure that the journey from black water to clear water becomes a global success story, benefiting both the environment and future generations. Let us seize this opportunity to safeguard our water resources and preserve the beauty and vitality of our precious ecosystems.

[cannabisbusinessexecutive]

CBE’s Post-Harvest Manufacturing List: Remediation

Producing clean cannabis products is crucial for any operation looking for long-term success. The ability to pass state-mandated product safety tests determines whether your products get to market or if your facility gets dinged with a failed test violation and a potential process audit from regulators. Seeking to lower the risk of a failed lab test derailing production plans, some cultivators…

[deltaremediation]

Landfarm Remediation: The Ancient Art of Healing the Earth

Landfarm remediation is a practice that involves using natural systems and microorganisms to break down and transform harmful substances in contaminated soil and water. This approach seeks to restore the balance of natural systems and promote healing and growth in the environment, while also creating a more sustainable future for human society.

Landfarm remediation is based on the principles of sustainable agriculture and draws upon the ancient art of working with the earth to promote healing and growth. It recognizes the interconnectedness of the health of the land and the health of all living beings, and seeks to work with nature, rather than against it.

To remediate contaminated soil, specific strains of microorganisms are introduced to break down the contaminants and transform them into harmless compounds. This process typically involves soil testing and analysis, tilling and aerating the soil, and adding organic materials such as compost and manure to provide food and energy for the microorganisms.

Landfarm remediation is a complex process that requires careful planning and management, as well as an understanding of the natural systems and microorganisms involved. However, the rewards are significant, including the restoration of the health of contaminated land and the creation of new opportunities for sustainable agriculture and land use.

Ultimately, landfarm remediation is a powerful tool for healing the earth and creating a more sustainable future by combining ancient wisdom with modern scientific knowledge and techniques. It can help us create a world that is healthier, more resilient, and more connected to the natural systems that sustain us.

[delta-remediation]

Revolutionizing Environmental Restoration with Delta Remediation

A New Dawn for Eco-Conscious Environmental Remediation Delta Remediation was conceived out of an unwavering commitment to foster sustainable and eco-friendly solutions for environmental restoration. Anchored by the conviction that future generations deserve a healthier planet, Delta Remediation has blazed a trail as a trailblazer in the sector. By launching a series of groundbreaking products and services, the company has effectively confronted hydrocarbon contamination in both soil and water.

The Pillars of Delta Remediation: Sustainability, Innovation, and Dedication The driving forces behind Delta Remediation's actions are its foundational principles: the pursuit of sustainable environmental solutions, relentless innovation, and a resolute commitment to ecological welfare.

A Close Look at Delta Remediation’s Groundbreaking Technology The BioLogix Solution by Delta Remediation represents the company’s technological prowess and innovative spirit.

BioLogix Salt Binder: The Vanguard of Salt Remediation This product stands at the forefront of environmentally-friendly solutions to rampant salt-related environmental challenges.

BioLogix Surfactant: An Eco-Compliant Hydrocarbon Liberator Crafted to free hydrocarbons from soil and usher them to the surface, this biodegradable surfactant is neither ethoxylated nor butyl-based, underscoring its eco-compliance.

BioLogix Microbes: The Microscopic Solution The BioLogix Surfactant is amplified by BioLogix Microbes, a powerful concoction of live Pseudomonas bacteria strains. These microbes possess an innate knack for degrading hydrocarbons, cementing their status as a crucial part of the BioLogix solution.

ScreenLogix TPH Test Kit: The Quick Contamination Assessor Delta Remediation’s innovative streak extends to the ScreenLogix Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) soil test kit. This ingenious device empowers users to promptly identify the nature and level of hydrocarbon contamination in soils.

The Comprehensive Suite of Services by Delta Remediation Delta Remediation offers an extensive range of services to combat a myriad of environmental challenges.

Soil Remediation: The War Against Soil Contaminants The company takes pride in its flagship service – soil remediation, aimed at purging soil of pollutants such as hydrocarbons, heavy metals, pesticides, cyanides, volatiles, creosote, and semi-volatiles.

Bioremediation: Bacteria to the Rescue Here, bacteria serve as absorbents and decomposers of hydrocarbons and other pollutants. This technique proves highly effective in soils that uphold a temperature of approximately 70 degrees F and receive periodic rainfall for optimal moisture.

Thermal Soil Remediation: Evaporating Impurities This service heats up the contaminated soil in a Process Treatment Unit (PTU), causing the hydrocarbon impurities and water to evaporate.

Encapsulation: Isolation Over Removal As an alternative strategy to tackle soil contamination, encapsulation encloses contaminants to prevent their spread to uncontaminated areas.

Groundwater and Water Remediation: Preserving our Water Sources Delta Remediation adopts natural remediation processes to expunge contaminants from water and groundwater with minimal environmental impact, safeguarding our invaluable water resources.

Oil Spill and Sulfolane Remediation: Minimizing Ecological Damage Delta Remediation's expertise extends to managing oil spills and sulfolane contamination, with a focus on mitigating environmental harm and protecting local ecosystems.

The Delta Remediation Promise: A Blend of Innovation and Responsibility Innovation is the lifeblood of Delta Remediation. The company ceaselessly ventures into the unexplored territories of environmental remediation, delivering not just effective but also sustainable solutions.

A Strong Advocate for Sustainability Delta Remediation endorses remediation over relocation as a more sustainable and responsible response to environmental challenges. This ethos, coupled with stringent safety and quality norms, cements their standing as pioneers in environmental remediation.

Conclusion Delta Remediation persistently challenges established norms and redefines the standards of environmental remediation. Given their unwavering dedication to creating a cleaner, safer planet, the future of Delta Remediation promises to be as innovative and impactful as its illustrious past.

[wausaupilot]

UWSP faculty awarded grant for soils research

The group’s proposal, Phytoremediation of PFAS in Wisconsin Soils using Hemp and Alfalfa, was funded $175,000, to be split between two years from January 2024 through December 2025.

STEVENS POINT – Five faculty members at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and a collaborator at UW-Madison were awarded one of three 2023 Universities of Wisconsin Innovation Grants for research on phytoremediation, the removal of synthetic materials from soil using living plants, UWSP announced today. The group’s proposal, Phytoremediation of PFAS in Wisconsin Soils using Hemp and…

[simpletank]

Groundwater Contamination Solutions in New Jersey | Simple Tank Services

Simple Tank Services specializes in addressing groundwater contamination in NJ. Our dedicated team offers effective groundwater remediation and soil and groundwater remediation services to restore environmental safety. Trust us to resolve groundwater contamination issues in New Jersey efficiently. Contact us today for expert solutions to safeguard your property and the environment.

[reasonsforhope]

"Sunlight dapples the once-denuded forest floor as saplings spread their branches and leaves overhead, slowly forming a lush canopy.

Beside each young tree, a sign notes its species. Lupuna, says one, the colloquial Peruvian term, and below that its scientific name, Ceiba pentandra — in other words, a kapok tree, known for its cotton-like fibers. Huito, says another sign, or Geinpa americana, which produces edible gray berries.

Each sapling is distinct, a reflection of the Amazon's stunning biodiversity, with so many different species that you might go acres without finding a repeat.

Yet this young forest did not spring up naturally. It has been carefully recreated by humans in an area that was, until just three years ago, a heavily contaminated moonscape.

This land was stripped of its dense vegetation by miners scouring the subsoil for tiny specks of gold, using mercury to separate the gold from the sediment. Many thought that a healthy forest would never thrive in impoverished, mercury-laden topsoil and that the piles of sandy tailings, the residue from the gold mining effort, and the pools of wastewater were irremediable...

"It feels good to see the forest grow back," says Pedro Ynfantes, 66, the miner whose legal mining concession of 1,110 acres includes this 10-acre patch of land where this young forest is located. "We don't want to deforest. When we had the opportunity to let the forest grow back, we took it. It's much better this way."

The opportunity he refers to came via U.S. nonprofit Pure Earth, which works with communities across the Global Southto remediate environmental problems left behind by mining, much of it illegal. Their biggest targets are mercury and lead contamination...

Security forces have launched anti-mining operations down the years, even blowing up the miners' equipment deep in the jungle. But most local politicians, including Madre de Dios' members of Peru's national congress, broadly support the miners, who are a powerful constituency in the relatively sparsely populated jungle region.

Restoring the forest

Pictured: France Cabanillas works for the nonprofit group Pure Earth, which is spearheading an effort to plant saplings in areas of the Peruvian Amazon that were devastated by illegal gold mining.

Now there's an effort to address the damage. Initially working with the region's legal miners, most of whom were here before the 2009 gold rush kicked off, the nonprofit group Pure Earth is using this patch of Ynfantes' land as a pilot project to show how the rainforest can be regenerated after the last traces of gold have been plucked from the soil.

It took a sustained outreach effort. Many miners are wary of or even downright hostile to foreign NGOs, which have repeatedly called for gold mining to be banned or severely curbed in the Peruvian Amazon — steps they say would cost them their livelihood.

"I am feeling optimistic," says France Cabanillas, Pure Earth's local coordinator, who has been appealing to the frustration of many miners at the heavy toll they have taken on the jungle and their desire to minimize their environmental footprint for the next generation.

"We still have a lot to do but this pilot is going well. Down the years, the miners have been getting a lot of stick but not much carrot when it comes to their environmental impacts," says Cabanillas. "We are offering them a carrot, allowing them to remediate their own impacts. Many of the miners do not want to be destroying the rainforest."

Before the miners plant the carefully-selected mix of tree species, they had to prepare the earth. Most of the topsoil had been washed away by the miners' heavy use of hoses.

That preparation involved adding biochar (burnt organic material) and even molasses, which contain fixed carbon and minerals, along with various other nutrients. The miners also had to dig tiny moats around the saplings to prevent all of this new planting from being washed away. Now, after three years, the forest is visibly coming back.

The rejuvenated rainforest also mitigates the impact of the mercury used by many of the illegal miners.

Research done by Pure Earth shows that the barren, sandy soil emits mercury. But in a rainforest, the ecosystem actually absorbs some of the metal, boosting public health."

-via NPR, April 2, 2024

[zvaigzdelasas]

The Onondaga claim that the United States violated a 1794 treaty, signed by George Washington, that guaranteed 2.5 million acres in central New York to them. The case, filed in 2014, is the second brought by an American Indian nation against the United States in an international human rights body; a finding is expected as soon as this year.

Even if the Onondaga are successful, the result will mostly be symbolic. The entity, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, has no power to enforce a finding or settlement, and the United States has said that it does not consider the commission’s recommendations to be binding.

“We could win against them, but that doesn’t mean that they have to abide by whatever,” Mr. Hill said in an interview.

The 2.5 million acres have long since been transformed by highways and utility lines, shopping malls, universities, airports and roller rinks.

The territory encompasses the cities of Binghamton and Syracuse, as well as more than 30 state forests, dozens of lakes and countless streams and tributaries. It is also home to 24 Superfund sites, the environmental detritus of the powerhouse economy that helped central New York thrive during the beginning and middle half of the 20th century.

Most notorious of these is Lake Onondaga, which once held the dubious title of America’s most polluted lake.

Industrial waste has left its mark on Onondaga territory, leaving the nation unable to fish from its streams and rivers. The history of environmental degradation is part of what motivates the Onondaga, who consider it their sacred responsibility to protect their land.

One of their chief objectives in filing the petition is a seat at the table on environmental decisions across the original territory. The other is an acknowledgment that New York, even if only in principle, owes them 2.5 million acres.[...]

Some Native nations have been willing to drop land claims in exchange for licenses to operate casinos. But the Onondaga say they are not interested in cash. Nor are they interested in licenses to sell cannabis or operate a casino — which they consider socially irresponsible and a threat to their tribal sovereignty.

There’s really just one thing that Mr. Hill says would be an acceptable form of payment: land.

The Onondaga insist they are not looking to displace anyone. Instead they hope the state might turn over a tract of unspoiled land for the nation to hunt, fish, preserve or develop as it sees fit. One such repatriation effort is underway: the return of 1,000 acres as a part of a federal settlement with Honeywell International for the contamination of Onondaga Lake. The United States has not contested the Onondaga's account of how the nation lost its land. Indeed, the lawyers representing the United States in the Onondaga case have centered their argument on legal precedence, noting that courts at every level — including the U.S. Supreme Court — rejected the Onondaga’s claims as too old and most remedies too disruptive to the region’s current inhabitants.

To the Onondaga, the logic required to square these contentions seems unfair. Why should the United States be allowed to steal their land and face no obligation to give some back?[...]

In New York, [...] Native people were not considered to have standing to sue on their own behalf until 1987.[...]

In 2005, the Onondaga filed a version of their current claim in Federal District Court in the Northern District of New York, naming as defendants the State of New York, its governor, Onondaga County, the City of Syracuse and a handful of the companies responsible for the environmental degradation over the past centuries. A similar case filed by the Oneida Nation was, at the time, pending before the Supreme Court.

But just 18 days after the Onondaga filed their petition, the Supreme Court rejected the Oneidas’ case. The decision referenced an colonial-era legal theory known as the Doctrine of Discovery, which holds in part that Indigenous property claims were nullified by the “discovery” of that land by Christians.

The “long lapse of time” and “the attendant dramatic changes in the character” precluded the Oneida nation from the “disruptive remedy” it sought, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg wrote in the majority decision.[...]

[L]awyers for the Onondaga used the rejection as the premise for a new argument. They contended that the U.S. court system’s refusal to find in their favor proved that they could not find justice in the United States.

The petition filed before the international commission amounts to the most direct challenge of the United States’ treatment of Indigenous people to date in terms of human rights — and the first to apply the lens of colonialism.

“What the Onondaga litigation is doing right now is to force a political dialogue with the colonial occupier,” said Andrew Reid, a lawyer representing the Onondaga, adding that a favorable finding could prompt a political conversation about the United States’s treatment of native people on the world stage.

Representatives for the State Department declined to be interviewed and did not respond to requests for comment. But in legal documents, the United States contended that the Onondaga’s central claims have been rejected in prior cases; that they have had “abundant opportunity” for their case to be heard; and that they are merely unhappy with the outcome. It also contended that the commission has no jurisdiction, given that the bulk of the nation’s losses took place two centuries before it was established.

“The judicial process functioned as it should have in this matter,” the United States wrote in legal papers.

15 Mar 24

[sizzlingstarlightsky]

A Court of Burns and Scales

Azriel Week 2024 [Day 2: Scarred]

Azriel x F reader

Summary: His hands burnt, hers flaking. As solstice arrives, you both notice each others hands and attempt to remedy any of the discomfort. Either from scar tissue or dried out skin, you don't have to suffer alone.

work count: 2.3k

Her skin was perpetually cracked, no matter the season, and she was always seen fidgeting with a small, worn-out tub of lotion.

She walked with her head down, a silent guardian of her secret, her eyes darting up only briefly to survey her surroundings for any signs of contamination.

On a day much like the others, the sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow across the training grounds of the inner circle. The air was cool, hinting at the winter solstice approaching, and the smell of roasting meats and sweet spices wafted from the distant kitchens.

The sounds of laughter and camaraderie filled the air, as everyone worked tirelessly to prepare for the upcoming celebrations.

Her hands stung with the cold, the dryness a constant reminder of her condition.

She pulled out her lotion from the pocket of her cloak, the soft sound of the lid opening barely audible amidst the bustle around her. Applying a generous amount, she worked it into her skin, her eyes fluttering closed as she focused on the soothing feeling of the cream against her parched palms.

It was in that moment of solitude, her mind briefly detached from the chaos, that she felt his presence. The air grew colder, and she knew it wasn't the wind.

She looked up, her gaze meeting Azriel's, his eyes a piercing shade of cramelized green that seemed to see straight through her.

He was watching her intently, his expression unreadable, and for a fleeting second, she felt a flicker of embarrassment. But his gaze didn't linger on the tub of lotion; it remained on her hands, as if he could see the unspoken battle she waged every day.

"Your hands," he said, his voice a low rumble that seemed to resonate within her chest. "They're dry."

"You really are preceptive Mr. Spymaster."

Her voice was a gentle tease, but there was an edge of vulnerability to it that she hadn't meant to reveal.

She quickly turned her attention back to her task, her eyes darting around to ensure no one else had noticed her odd behavior. But his gaze remained fixed on her, his silence more profound than any words could ever be.

"Let me," he offered, holding out a large, calloused hand.

His palm was a stark contrast to hers—marred by scars and burn marks, a testament to his own battles.

Her heart skipped a beat as she handed over the lotion, their fingers brushing briefly. He took her hand in his, his grip firm yet gentle, and began to apply the cream.

His touch was surprisingly tender, each stroke deliberate and soothing. She watched as the lotion disappeared into her skin, leaving a trail of softness in its wake.

"You should tell someone," he said, his voice softer than she had ever heard it. "They can help."

"It's nothing," she replied, trying to pull her hand away.

But he held firm, his gaze never leaving hers.

"It's just something I deal with."

"But you don't have to deal with it alone," Azriel insisted, his grip tightening slightly. "I can see the torment it causes you. It's clear you're fighting something more than the cold."

She swallowed hard, her pulse racing.

No one had ever cared enough to notice, let alone speak about it. The realization was both comforting and terrifying.

"It's... It's just contamination... it's nothing to worry about."

He studied her for a moment, his eyes searching hers.

"Is that all it is?"

"It's just... I need to keep my hands clean. It's a compulsion." The words tumbled out of her, a confession she had never uttered to anyone before.

She felt a weight lift from her shoulders, but also a deep fear of what he might think. Would he judge her, pity her, or worse, think her weak?

But Azriel's expression remained steadfast, a rare softness etched into his features. He finished applying the lotion to her other hand and gave it a gentle squeeze before letting go.

"It's not nothing," he said firmly. "But I won't push you if you're not ready to share."

The silence that followed was heavy with unspoken understanding.

They both knew they had just shared something deeply personal, something that had the power to either bond them or drive them apart. She looked down at her now-moisturized hands, the flakes of skin settled, and felt a sense of gratitude towards him that she couldn't quite put into words.

"Thank you," she murmured, her voice barely audible.

"It's the least I can do," Azriel replied, his eyes never leaving hers.

He tucked the lotion back into her pocket before turning to reveal his own hands.

They were a map of his life, etched with the scars and burns from years of fighting and serving in the shadows. He held them up to the fading light, showing her the stark contrast between them.

"My hands have seen their own battles," he said, his voice laced with a hint of sadness.

Her gaze traced the jagged lines that crisscrossed his palms, the burns that had long ago turned to scars. She could see the pain in his eyes, a pain that was not just physical, but one that ran much deeper.

"They're beautiful," she murmured, surprised by her own words.

He raised an eyebrow.

"Beautiful?" He repeated the word as if it were foreign to him. "They're my failures."

"No," she said, her voice firm. "They're your strengths, your proof of survival. They tell a story."

He stared at his hands for a long moment, contemplating her words.

"But they ache," he finally admitted, his voice a quiet confession. "The tightness, especially when the cold sets in..."

"I know," she said with a nod of understanding. "I have my own remedies, but I've never found anything that truly works."

The rest of the day passed in a blur of preparations, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something had shifted between her and Azriel. His gesture of kindness had been so unexpected, yet it felt as if it had been the most natural thing in the world for him to do.

As they worked side by side, she found herself stealing glances at his hands, wondering if he felt the same discomfort she did.

The winter solstice had arrived, bringing with it a biting cold that seemed to seep into the very marrow of their bones.

The inner circle had gathered around a roaring bonfire, the flames casting flickering shadows across the snow-covered ground.

Her eyes found Azriel across the bonfire, his cheeks flushed with the exertion of the day's festivities. He caught her gaze and flashed a rare smile, his teeth gleaming in the firelight.

The sight of him, so carefree and happy, warmed her more than the blaze before them.

But she noticed his hands—clenched into fists at his sides, the tightness of his skin around his knuckles a stark reminder of his own silent struggle.

The snowball fight had been a highlight, a playful reprieve from their usual solemn duties. But she knew that beneath the jesting and camaraderie, his hands must have suffered.

Approaching him, she offered a warm mug of mulled wine.

"Your hands look like they could use a break," she said with a knowing smile.

He took the mug with a nod of thanks, his eyes never leaving hers.

"They ache," he admitted, "but the victory was worth it."

Her own hands felt tight, the cold air exacerbating her skin. She pulled out her tub of lotion and began to apply it, watching as the flakes of skin disappeared once again. But this time, she didn't do it in secret. This time, she did it openly, as if daring anyone to judge her for her compulsion.

"These are for you," she said, holding out a small, velvet pouch. "I had Thesan enchant it."

He took the pouch with curiosity, his eyes narrowing slightly as he felt the weight of the contents within.

"What is it?"

"An oil," she said with a soft smile.

"It's supposed to soothe the tightness of scar tissue." She watched as he pulled out a small vial and opened it, the scent of something warm and earthy filling the air.

His eyes widened as he took in the deep, amber liquid.

"You had this made for me?"

"It's the least I could do," she said, echoing his earlier words. "You've been so kind to me, and I noticed how much your hands hurt."

With a nod of understanding, Azriel dropped a small amount of the oil onto his palm. He tentatively touched the scarred skin of his hands, his eyes closing as he felt the warmth spread.

"It feels... amazing," he murmured, his voice filled with wonder.

Her heart swelled with pride and relief. She had hoped it would help, had spent hours with Thesan perfecting the enchantment.

"It's a blend of arnica and comfrey oil, with a hint of magic to penetrate deeper."

He nodded, his eyes still closed, savoring the sensation. "It's perfect." He looked at her, his gaze intense. "Thank you."

No was the infamous Spymaster. He knew everyone. Yet no one truly knew him.

Y/N did. She always saw him. Noticed him.

Y/N was always there.

She ducked her head, feeling a blush creep up her neck.

"It's nothing," she mumbled.

But Azriel didn't let the subject drop. He studied her for a moment before speaking again,

"You're always looking out for others, but who looks out for you?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with meaning. She took a sip of her wine, the warmth spreading through her chest, and considered her response.

"I manage," she said, her voice a little too bright.

"But you shouldn't have to manage alone," he said, his eyes searching hers. "Not with something like this."

"It's just OCD," she said, trying to downplay it. "It's nothing compared to the battles you face."

"Our battles are different," Azriel said, his voice low and serious. "But that doesn't make yours any less significant. We all have our demons, some we carry in plain sight, others we hide away."

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, intricately carved box. The wood was dark and gleaming, the edges inlaid with shimmering silver that caught the firelight.

"This is for you," he said, holding it out to her.

Her eyes widened in surprise.

"What is it?" she breathed, reaching out to take the box.

It was surprisingly warm to the touch, as if it had been cradled in his hand for hours.

With a gentle smile, Azriel opened the box to reveal a small bottle of lotion nestled in velvet.

"It's an enchanted lotion," he explained. "Looks like Thesan helped both of us. This is supposed to lock in the moisture, no matter how much you wash your hands."

Her eyes lit up with hope as she took the bottle, her trembling fingers tracing the delicate silver runes etched into the glass.

"This is... I don't know what to say," she whispered.

"Say you'll use it," he said, his voice firm yet gentle. "You deserve to find some comfort."

Her heart fluttered as she looked up at him, his eyes holding hers with an intensity that made her feel seen. She nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Thank you," she murmured.

As they stood there, the warmth from the fire and the newfound warmth between them seemed to create a bubble of comfort around them.

She could feel the eyes of the others in the inner circle on them, curiosity and speculation in their gazes.

But she didn't care. For the first time in a long while, she felt understood, accepted, and even a little bit cared for.

"Let's sit," Azriel suggested, gesturing to a bench nearby. "Give it a try."

Her heart pounded as she sat beside him, the warmth from his body seeping into her side. She unscrewed the cap of the enchanted lotion, the sweet scent of vanilla and sandalwood wafting out.

Carefully, she applied a dollop to her palm, feeling the rich cream sink into her skin. It was unlike any lotion she had ever used, cool and calming, as if it were whispering reassurances to her very soul.

As she rubbed the lotion into her cracked hands, Azriel's gaze remained on her, a hint of something unreadable in his eyes. It was as if he was memorizing the sight of her, the way the firelight played across her features, the way her eyes lit up when she talked about her potions, and the way her hands looked after being coated in the magical balm.

"Better?" he asked, his voice a gentle rumble in the cold night air.

"Much," she replied, smiling genuinely as she examined her now-softened skin. "It feels like a miracle. I never thought my hands would be truly moisturized again."

"I'm not one for miracles," Azriel said with a small smile, "but I'm happy it helps."

They sat in comfortable silence, their breaths coming out in little puffs of mist in the cold air. She noticed the way the flames danced in his eyes, the way his scarred hands looked less harsh in the flickering light.

Without thinking, she reached over and took his hand, the one that wasn't wrapped around the warm mug of wine.

His fingers were large and rough, a stark contrast to her small, smooth ones. But the moment their skin touched, she felt a connection, a silent understanding that went deeper than words.

He looked at her, surprise flickering in his eyes before they softened.

He didn't pull away, instead, he entwined his fingers with hers, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. The heat from his palm seemed to meld with the magical warmth of the lotion, sending a rush of comfort up her arm and into her chest.

@azrielappreciationweek

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[allthecanadianpolitics]

A First Nation in northwestern Ontario that has faced decades of mercury poisoning is suing the provincial and federal governments, arguing they've failed to protect its treaty rights. Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek First Nation — known as Grassy Narrows — filed the lawsuit in Ontario's Superior Court of Justice on Tuesday morning. It argues the governments have violated their duties under Treaty 3 by failing to protect against or remedy the effects of mercury contamination in the English-Wabigoon River system. The allegations in this lawsuit haven't been tested in court. Contamination of the river system dates back to the 1960s and '70s when Dryden's paper mill in northwestern Ontario dumped an estimated nine tonnes of mercury into the water.

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