#Environmental Testing Market Research

[aishavass]

High demand for water due to rapid industrialization coupled with the deteriorating water resources is expected to be a major factor responsible for the...

[tbrcresearchreport]

The Business Research Company offers environmental testing equipment market research report 2023 with industry size, share, segments and market growth

[maryharrisk5]

The global environmental water testing market size is expected to reach a valuation of USD 5.35 billion by 2025.

[reasonsforhope]

"Lead is a neurotoxin; it causes premature deaths and lifelong negative effects. It’s said “there is no safe level of lead exposure” — as far as we know, any lead causes damage, and it just gets worse the more exposure there is.

After a 20-year, worldwide campaign, in 2021 Algeria became the final country to end leaded gasoline in cars — something the US phased out in 1996. That should make a huge difference to environmental lead levels. But lots of sources remain, from car batteries to ceramics...

Bangladesh phased out leaded gasoline in the 1990s. But high blood lead levels have remained. Why? When researchers Stephen Luby and Jenny Forsyth, doing work in rural Bangladesh, tried to isolate the source, it turned out to be a surprising one: lead-adulterated turmeric.

Turmeric, a spice in common use for cooking in South Asia and beyond, is yellow, and adding a pigment made of lead chromate makes for bright, vibrant colors — and better sales. Buyers of the adulterated turmeric were slowly being poisoned...

But there’s also good news: A recent paper studying lead in turmeric in Bangladesh found that researchers and the Bangladeshi government appear to have driven lead out of the turmeric business in Bangladesh.

How Bangladesh got serious about lead poisoning

The researchers who’d isolated turmeric as the primary cause of high blood lead levels —working for the nonprofit International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh — went to meet with government officials. They collected samples nationwide and published a 2019 follow-up paper on the extent of the problem. Bangladesh’s Food Safety Authority got involved.

They settled on a two-part approach, starting with an education campaign to warn people about the dangers of lead. Once people had been warned that lead adulteration was illegal, they followed up with raids to analyze turmeric and fine sellers who were selling adulterated products.

They posted tens of thousands of fliers informing people about the risks of lead. They got coverage in the news. And then they swept through the markets with X-ray fluorescence analyzers, which detect lead. They seized contaminated products and fined sellers.

According to the study released earlier this month, this worked spectacularly well. “The proportion of market turmeric samples containing detectable lead decreased from 47 percent pre-intervention in 2019 to 0 percent in 2021,” the study found. And the vanishing of lead from turmeric had an immediate and dramatic effect on blood lead levels in the affected populations, too: “Blood lead levels dropped a median of 30 percent.”

The researchers who helped make that result happen are gearing up for similar campaigns in other areas where spices are adulterated.

The power of problem-solving

...When the Food Safety Authority showed up at the market and started issuing fines for lead adulteration, it stopped being a savvy business move to add lead. Purchasers who were accustomed to unnatural lead-colored turmeric learned how to recognize non-adulterated turmeric. And so lead went from ubiquitous to nearly nonexistent in the space of just a few years.

That’s a better world for everyone, from turmeric wholesalers to vulnerable kids — all purchased at a shockingly low price. The paper published this month concludes, “with credible information, appropriate technology, and good enough governance, the adulteration of spices can be stopped.”

There’s still a lot more to be done. India, like Bangladesh, has widespread adulteration of turmeric. And safety testing will have to remain vigilant to prevent lead in Bangladesh from creeping back into the spice supply.

But for all those caveats, it’s rare to see such fast, decisive action on a major health problem — and impressive to see it immediately rewarded with such a dramatic improvement in blood lead levels and health outcomes. It’s a reminder that things can change, and can change very quickly, as long as people care, and as long as they act."

-via Vox, September 20, 2023

[fatfables]

I found this undergrad project online looking into the growth of adipophilia (fat fetishism).

Well worth a read as the guy gets kinda carried away!

It's reproduced here in full.

Adipophilia 

How do cultural, societal, and technological factors intersect to shape the emergence and growth of adipophilia among young male adults in the digital age?

Shane Tjock

(Bachelor of Science student)

University of Michigan

Department of Environmental Philosophy

Obesity Studies

Abstract

This research project outlines a comprehensive approach to studying the growth of adipophilia (a sexual attraction to fat or overweight people) among young male adults online, integrating observational and experimental methods as well as qualitative and quantitative analyses to provide a holistic understanding of the phenomenon. Adipophilic tendencies have been on the rise in the United States and other western countries in recent years amongst young males and in particular within the homosexual population. The occurrence of sexual attraction to big, round, bloated bellies and buttocks, as well as thick thighs and swollen man breasts is clearly visible through social media platforms, forums, and so called ‘gainer’ dedicated websites. The rise of ‘gainer societies’ at colleges and universities, including the University of Michigan, evidences that the growth of gainerism is not limited to online spaces. Gainerism and feederism are linked sexual proclivities where people actively participate in a concerted effort to make themselves and or someone else fatter. Sexual arousal is often achieved through the act of binge eating or ‘stuffing’ until the stomach is stretched to the max after the consumption of excessive amounts of food and drink. Adipophiliacs like to rub their own and other people’s swollen bellies and elicit pleasure from the effects of purposeful weight gain, such as; out growing clothing, button popping, the appearance of stretch marks, and watching big bellies bounce. Pride is taken in calorie counting, measuring growth, and regular weigh-ins. As well as a personal increase in laziness, selfishness, and greed. The growth of gainerism amongst young LGBTQ+ males is multifaceted and has been caused by the normalisation of obesity in society, the overabundance and marketing of cheap unhealthy foodstuffs, a move towards body positivity, an increased awareness and openness to kink lifestyles, and the fact that it is sexy and fun.

Introduction

The rise of adipophilia as a cultural phenomenon is of interest to psychologists, sociologists, and fat fetishists. The question of why young men chose to over-inflate and swell their bodies with fat until their abdomens are abnormally round and swollen, like water balloons about to pop, is the key question of this study. What is it about huge, heavy, rounded-out bellies, that evidence the greed of the young male overconsumer, that is so deliciously desirable?

This study seeks to answer this question through a mix of observational and experimental techniques that provide both qualitative and quantitative evidence that the results of purposeful weight gain are hot as hell. Observations of publicly posted photos, videos, and conversations of male gainers will be carefully considered and analysed in order to identify common themes and factors related to stuffing your belly so full that it strains and stretches out inches over your belt, jiggling with every step you take. Due to the doubtful efficacy of feeding healthy participants up to the point of morbid obesity, the author has decided to partake in several gainer related activities himself and will rate them on a likert scale, from 1: Not at all arousing, to 5: Extremely arousing, in order to gather real world data into the immense joy of feeling oneself grow bigger and bigger everyday. As a voluntary participant the author will also undergo a regular testing and measurement routine in order to ascertain the effectiveness of various weight gain diets and to see if the experience of having one’s growth recorded is as hot as other gainers say it is.

Literature Review

There is a very limited amount of scientific literature on this topic, I have chosen therefore to give a brief overview of adipophilia in popular culture. The most commonly cited adipophilic book is Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, (Dahl, 1964), in which an extremely fat German boy wins a trip to a chocolate factory by eating an obscene amount of chocolate. His wonderfully greedy guts are then sucked up a pipe while he attempts to drink an entire chocolate river. A disappointing failure. It also includes a girl who inflates like a giant blueberry, but this study is not interested in girls. A recent prequel film, Willy Wonka (2023), features a heavy-set policeman who is fed chocolate bribes by chocolatier gangsters until he almost triples in size. A life goal for many. The Fattest Man in America (Nicholson, 2005) is a novel about a thousand pound man who eats himself up to a glorious size in order to become a tourist attraction. Alternatively The Fattest Man in Britain (2009) is a TV Movie (freely available on YouTube) starring Timothy Spall about a man who gets into an eating contest in order to prove that he is in fact the fattest. Heavyweights (1995) is a Disney film featuring the fat kids from The Mighty Ducks and a young Ben Stiller. It is set in a summer weight loss camp. The storyline features a lot of alarming similar events to the story of my friend Shawn when he went to fat camp. Life imitates art. The Simpsons (1989-Present) features several episodes in which characters gain weight, and I also used to fancy Kenen from Kenan & Kel (1996).

Research Objectives

To observe online gainer content in order to identify and analyse themes and factors that turn me on.

To experience the pleasure of gaining an insanely unhealthy amount of weight within a very short period in order to discover just how sexually gratifying it is.

To promote adipophilia as a lifestyle amongst other young gay men.

Observational Study

Design:

Conduct a systematic observation of online communities, forums, and platforms known for adipophilic content. Utilize qualitative methods to analyze discussions, interactions, and content shared within these communities.

Sample:

Select a diverse range of online platforms catering to a single interest and demographic.

Collect data over a specified time period to capture variations in content and user engagement.

Data Collection:

Employ data scraping techniques to collect publicly available content.

Record observations, noting patterns, themes, and prevalent attitudes towards adipophilia.

Analysis:

I have spent the last four months observing several online gainer platforms and websites. I have viewed thousands of photos and videos of fat growing men of all ages, from 18 years and up. Though I have a few doubts about all of them being at least 18 and for some reason I couldn’t really find any gainers much older than about 65. I am unsure as to why this is.

Common themes and factors that I have identified are; huge round bloated bellies, ball bellies, balloon bellies, and beer bellies. Some bellies hang low while others stick out really far. Some look soft and squishy while others look hard and round - as if the guy has swallowed a basketball whole. They are my favourite. All of them are wide, swollen, and beautiful. Gainers often eat in their videos and stuff themselves stupid on takeaways. They like to watch each other over-eat and encourage each other to eat even more. I often did this whilst being sure to maintain my distance as an observer. Other factors were; soft flabby love handles and muffin tops that overhang tight shorts and boxers. These were lush fat rolls that I watched grow fuller and thicker on many sweet boys. Moobs, man breasts, and titties are also very popular. Fat boys tend to get big flat nipples that accentuate their doughy chests. I like how once you’re fat enough your tits rest on top of the dome of your distended over-ripe belly.

In many videos boys play with their fat tits, they squeeze and caress them, while teasing the viewer to suck on them like they were a woman. They also like to rub and pat their bloated bellies. I would eat tacos and rub mine while watching them. Some guys burp really loudly after downing fizzy drinks. It makes them seem so wonderfully greedy. One guy on Tumblr did this in only his boxers and I swear I saw his dick twitch.

I didn’t do all of the data collection I was supposed to due to becoming distracted by all the sexy fat men, especially the comparison pictures that show you how they used to look when they were thin compared to now. Other reasons for this weakness in my study design will become obvious when I explain the experimental study.

My prevalent attitude towards adipophilia is very positive as is that of all the gainers I spoke to online. They love getting fatter, telling me about it, and sharing private pics with me via DM’s.

Below is a list of all the fat factors that I identified, my rating for how sexy they are, and my explanation of why they are so fucking hot.

Trying on old clothes - Level 4 - Super Hot - Because I love how it demonstrates just how much they must have eaten. Watching a fat young guy struggle to fit into a XXL shirt makes me super hard.

Button popping - Level 5 - Dick Burstingly Hot - As above, only better! Boys suck their bellies in to try and look as thin as they can and they breathe out. Their bulging bellies overwhelm their shirts or pants as they expand, sending buttons flying off as fast as it makes me cum.

Burping - Level 3 - Sexy - Burping due to overconsumption is cool. I think I prefer it when I do it myself compared to watching others. I love how the escaping gas creates extra space in my belly for even more food!

Shaking/Jiggling - Super Hot - Big bouncing ball bellies and just the best! They make me want to grab them and smash my face into them.

Trying to exercise - Level 2 - Kinda Hot - This one I don’t get so much. Why would anyone want to exercise? It goes against all of the glory or adipophilia. It is though kinda cool to see sweaty fat boys struggle on the floor.

Belly measuring and weigh-ins - Level 6 - Super Dick Burstingly Hot!! - Videos and photos where boys measure their belly circumference and stand on scales cause me to nut directly. I love how happy they seem when they see the benefits of all their gorging. It makes me so proud of them.

Experimental Study

Design:

Spend three months eating as much as humanly possible in order to see just how fat I can get with the help of my friends in the gainer society.

Sample:

Me!

Data Collection:

Quantitative data: Weekly weigh-ins and belly measurements.

Qualitative data: Personal record of how turned on I get by my gains.

Analysis:

I first decided to gain when a friend of mine told me about the new gainer society that meets every week at KFC. I had always found fat boys attractive and was overweight myself. My starting weight was 193 lbs. My friend knew that I liked being fat so he suggested that we go together. There was a guy there called Shawn, he was the fattest kid I’d ever seen. He was so cool! He ate like three family buckets to himself. I wanted to be able to do that. Shawn said that I had a good attitude and welcomed me to the group. I ate eight pieces of chicken, a burger with extra cheese, and three corn on the cobs. I felt so full and my belly ached as I walked home. I knew I needed more. That’s when I decided to do this study for my end of year project.

My friends in the UMGS thought that the project was a great idea and helped me to write a plan and food diary to ensure that I ate an extra 500 calories every day in order to expand my capacity and ensure growth. I stuck to it for the first week and then couldn’t be bothered any more so I just ate as much as I wanted. The plan was too restrictive and writing everything down all the time became a fucking ball ache. I just wanted to eat!

After two weeks I was noticeably fatter. My pants felt tighter and my t-shirt began to ride up my belly. Danni one day even pointed out that one of my love handles was on display in class. I started eating all the time and always snacked on Doritos and Snickers during lectures. I started to go topless in my room so that I could see and play with my fat while I did my observation study and snacked. I started jerking off more often. Gaining is definitely arousing.

After a month I needed bigger clothes and went to TJ Maxx to buy cheap shorts and t-shirts. I knew they wouldn’t last long! In the lunch hall my favourites were chilli dogs and fries, with chocolate fudge cake for dessert. I ate so much of it that my friends started to call me ‘Fudge’, I’d never had a nickname before!

My belly was now noticeably bigger. It protruded out and the front and felt heavy due to the fact that I kept it constantly stuffed to the brim. I could now cup my hand under it and lift it up. I love doing that. The fat feels so smooth and luxurious. My Mom even mentioned to me on a Zoom call that I looked like I’d gained weight. I told her that it was normal for guys at college. I was so impressed that I even looked fatter through a screen!

I kept eating and soon I could manage a family bucket at KFC with ease. I would drown the chicken in gravy, which Shawn said they make out of the fat scrapped from the bottom of the fryer. I so hope that this is true. I also started drinking nothing but Cola and Fanta and Beer. If it ain’t carbonated keep it the hell away from me! Brrruuurrrrppp!

From my observational study I learnt that some gainers like to rest their full bellies on a sink. I thought at first that this was just a bit weird and silly but then I tried it! I was amazed by how fat I felt resting my gorgeous growling gluttonous gut on top of the cold service. I spent ten minutes lifting and fondling it while I jerked off to my own reflection in the bathroom mirror.

By the end of the second month I felt massive! My dick was constantly as hard as my tightly packed stomach. Adipophilia is so sexy. I bought new clothes again and they already felt restrictive. My tits became more sensitive and I was overcome with pleasure when Danni sucked on them. They didn’t quite rest on top of my belly yet but I knew it wouldn’t be long.

In the lunch hall I turned to pizza and pasta and all the carbs. It was like the Atkins diet but in reverse. ‘Fudge’ was turning into a real fat boy. My thighs were thicker and began to chaff in the heat. At first this annoyed me but Shawn said that it was a sign of my progress and kindly offered to rub vaseline onto my groin for me. He said that my thighs were soft like two tubes of thick cookie dough. That made it feel much better.

With all the extra weight I was carrying I felt myself become more lethargic and lazy. I spent even more time in my room alone doing my observational study but lost the urge to continue with the boring data collection. All I wanted to do was eat, watch videos, and jack off. My gut is now so big that I really have to stretch to reach my dick when I’m sitting. When I lie down it still rises up into the air, whereas before it splayed out wide and flat while I slept. I guess it’s because I always have a pre-sleep meal of filling chow-mein and dumplings every night.

On the very last day of this study I returned to KFC by myself and ate three family buckets! I knew that I could do it! I was so proud of myself that I had to go into their bathroom and jack it while I farted ferociously on the toilet!

I would never have behaved like that before I got into adipophilia. I feel now like a much happier, sexier, more fun, and adventurous guy. I’m sad that this study is over, but I know that my adventure with gaining is only just beginning. I’m now 286 lbs and am determined to gain my first hundred. I am so close and just typing this makes me deliriously hungry. I’m gonna go stuff myself with a mountain of McDonalds before I write out my results which are summarised below.

Results

Month One:

Starting weight 193 lbs, Waist size 36 inches.

Main foods consumed: KFC, Chilli Dogs, Chocolate Fudge Cake.

End weight 216 lbs, Waist size 38 inches.

Turn ons: Outgrowing my pants, feeling my belly swell, burping.

Month Two:

Starting weight 216 lbs, Waist size 38 inches.

Main foods consumed: KFC, Chilli Dogs, Fries, Pasta, Pizza, Chocolate Fudge Cake, Doritos, Snickers.

End weight 245 lbs, Waist size 40 inches.

Turn ons: My fast ass ripping my boxers, eating so much that I actually puked, abdominal pains, lifting and massaging my soft silky overhang, my love handles spilling out in class.

Month Three:

Starting weight 245 lbs, Waist size 40 inches.

Main foods consumed: KFC, Chilli Dogs, Fries, Pasta, Pizza, Chocolate Fudge Cake, Doritos, Snickers, McDonalds, Chinese, Cheesecakes, Profiteroles, Tacos, Ice Cream, Chicken Wings, Candy. So much candy!

End weight 286 lbs, Waist size 42 inches (and feeling tight AF!!)

Turn ons: Red raw stretch marks that circle my deep belly button like a whirlpool sucking me deeper in to the world of gaining, my fat heavy circular tits that feel soft and squishy, eating despite the fact that my stomach is howling in pain due to being stuffed with delicious high calorie junk foods, licking Shawn’s ass out while he farts, knowing that I’m already a huge fat gluttonous pig that’s only going to grow rounder and fatter with every greedy day that passes.

Implications and Recommendations

I recommend everybody to get into adipophilia. Fat is not only beautiful, it is tantalising, addictive, and highly erotic. Fat boys are the epitome of sexual desire and the most lush and lavish example of the human form. Big, round, heavy, ball bellies are the most attractive and every gay boy needs to have one. Social media and other online forums are a great way to get into adipophilia and the gainer/feeder scenes but nothing is better than doing it for real. Growing as fat as you can with the help of friends who want nothing more than to see you bulk out and grow into the fattest, roundest, blob of lard possible is unbeatable. Especially when they are more than happy to beat and suck you off while you gorge yourself on heavy milkshakes.

The personal implications for my belly and ass have been massive. They have both grown and swollen out immensely. Other gay boys love to watch and grope my fat ass as it bulges out of my straining gym shorts. It’s so soft and wide and round now, more of a balloon butt than bubble butt! The belly is so much bigger than it was. It loves what I have done to it and only wants more. It speaks to me now and says “Feed me!” all of the time. I have forgotten what it feels like to be hungry. A sensation that I never want to feel again. Being constantly full is the only way to be. The only way to ensure that I keep expanding.

Societal implications are also hugely positive. The more young guys who get into gaining then the more sexy fatties there will be for me to look at, encourage, play with, and fuck. Boys deserve to be fed to the brim with everything that they could ever desire and more. I want everyone to experience the advantages of the fat, lazy, and greedy lifestyle of a true glutton.

Conclusion

Adipophilia is on the rise and we should all welcome it with open arms and a tray of twenty four chocolate cream donuts! Through my observational and experimental studies I have discovered just how thrilling purposeful weight gain can be, both for the gainer and the people encouraging them. Online adipophilic content is growing every day, like my waistline, and I predict that it will continue to do so. I sincerely hope that adipophilia continues to develop into the mainstream and recommend any young male researchers interested in the topic to repeat and expand upon my study in order to help validate the scene. I promise that you will have a whale of a time!

[darkmaga-returns]

11/27/2024•Mises Wire•Connor O'Keeffe

When he returns to the White House early next year, President-elect Donald Trump plans to appoint Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to head a new Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. While not an official federal department, the Administration’s plans for DOGE are similar to the Grace Commission under Ronald Reagan and the “Reinventing Government,” or “REGO,” initiative under Bill Clinton. The president will task Musk and Ramaswamy’s team with researching, developing, testing, and writing up actionable steps for Trump and his team to effectively cut government spending and federal regulations.

In an op-ed last week, Musk and Ramaswamy laid out some initial plans for tackling the bureaucratic behemoth in Washington. They point to two recent Supreme Court rulings—West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency (2022) and Loper Bright v. Raimondo (2024)—in which the Court ruled that federal agencies cannot impose regulations dealing with major economic or policy questions without specific congressional authorization and that courts are no longer required to defer to agencies’ interpretation of their own authority. In citing these cases, the authors argue that a significant number of federal regulations currently on the books are technically illegal and, therefore, can and should be eliminated by executive order.

The two also professed their plans to trim the federal workforce by requiring remote federal employees to return to the office and to move agencies out of DC to regions of the country more relevant to what they oversee. The article ends with calls to cut funding to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, to overhaul the federal government’s procurement process, and to address the significant amount of waste, fraud, and abuse that taxpayers are forced to fund each year.

Musk and Ramaswamy’s plan has gotten plenty of criticism and skepticism from libertarians and small-government advocates, mostly because of its total reliance on politicians who have every institutional reason to decline the cuts. And, last month, I argued that even if DOGE achieved everything it set out to achieve, it still would fall far short of what’s needed to get the country off our current path to economic and societal destruction. While the vision laid out by the two DOGE leaders in the WSJ is a bit more robust than I had expected, I still stand by everything I said in that piece.

But there is a component of DOGE, and the broader movement behind it, that many free-marketers are too quick to dismiss or take for granted—the cultural component.

Anyone who understands that radical changes are necessary to fix our current national predicament also needs to understand how radical changes actually come about. As Robert Higgs detailed in his book on the subject, the biggest, most consequential changes to the American political and economic system have all taken place during a crisis.

[aeide-thea]

06-07-23 Why Patagonia helped Samsung redesign the washing machine

Samsung is releasing a wash cycle and a new filter, which will dramatically shrink microfiber pollution.

Eight years ago, Patagonia started to study a little-known environmental problem: With every load of laundry, thousands (even millions) of microfibers, each less than 5 millimeters long, wash down the drain. Some are filtered out at water treatment plants, but others end up in the ocean, where fibers from synthetic fabric make up a surprisingly large amount of plastic pollution—35%, by one estimate. Fragments of your favorite sweatshirt might now be floating in the Arctic Ocean. In a collaboration that began two years ago, the company helped inspire Samsung to tackle the problem by rethinking its washing machines. Today, Samsung unveiled its solution: A new filter that can be added to existing washers and used along with a “Less Microfiber” cycle that Samsung also designed. The combination makes it possible to shrink microfiber pollution by as much as 98%.

[…] Patagonia’s team connected Samsung with Ocean Wise, a nonprofit that tests fiber shedding among its mission to protect and restore our oceans. Samsung shipped some of its machines to Ocean Wise’s lab in Vancouver, where researchers started to study how various parameters change the results. Cold water and less agitation helped—but both of those things can also make it harder to get clothing clean. “There are maybe two ways of increasing the performance of your washing machine,” says Moohyung Lee, executive vice president and head of R&D at Samsung, through an interpreter. “Number one is to use heated water. That will obviously increase your energy consumption, which is a problem. The second way to increase the performance of your washing machine is to basically create stronger friction between your clothes . . . and this friction and abrasion of the fibers is what results in the output of microplastics.” Samsung had already developed a technology called “EcoBubble” to improve the performance of cold-water cycles to help save energy, and it tweaked the technology to specifically tackle microfiber pollution. “It helps the detergent dissolve more easily in water so that it foams better, which means that you don’t need to heat up your water as much, and you don’t need as much mechanical friction, but you still have a high level of performance,” Lee says. The new “Less Microfiber” cycle, which anyone with a Samsung washer can download as an update for their machine, can reduce microfiber pollution by as much as 54%. To tackle the remainder, the company designed a filter that can be added to existing washers at the drain pipe, with pores tiny enough to capture fibers. They had to balance two conflicting needs: They wanted to make it as simple as possible to use, so consumers didn’t have to continually empty the filter, but it was also critical that the filter wouldn’t get clogged, potentially making water back up and the machine stop working. The final design compresses the microfibers, so it only has to be emptied once a month, and sends an alert via an app when it needs to be changed. Eventually, in theory, the fibers that are collected could potentially be recycled into new material rather than put in the trash. (Fittingly, the filter itself is also made from recycled plastic.) When OceanWise tested the cycle and filter together, they confirmed that it nearly eliminated microfiber pollution. Now, Samsung’s challenge is to get consumers to use it. The filter, which is designed to be easily installed on existing machines, is launching now in Korea and will launch in the U.S. and Europe later this year. The cost will vary by market, but will be around $150 in the U.S. The cycle, which began to roll out last year, can be automatically installed on WiFi-connected machines.

[dailyanarchistposts]

Biotechnology and the future of humanity

Animals Are Commodities Too

Under slavery human individuals are owned, are property. Under capitalism workers aren’t owned but they have to sell their labour/time/creativity because capitalists own everything (land, the means of production, transport and communication etc) that would enable people to live outside of wage labour and the market place. Now, instead of individuals owning non-human animals as part of their subsistence, corporations are claiming the right to ‘own’ whole species of animals. This process of patenting life can be traced back to the 1980 US Supreme Court ruling, which stated that a GM bacterium (modified to digest oil) could be patented. Not just that one bacterium of course but the whole, created species. In 1985 the US Patent and Trademark Office ruled that GM plants, seeds and plant tissues could be patented. Now the corporations can demand royalties and licence payments every time farmers use those plants or seeds. Monsanto holds a patent on (i.e. owns and rents out) all GM cotton and soya. Patents have been granted on biological characteristics of plants as well. For example, a patent has been issued to Sungene for a variety of sunflower that has a high oleic acid content. But the patent covers the characteristic as well as the genes that code for it, so any plant breeder who achieves the same result by traditional methods could be sued.

In 1987 animals joined the biotech market place when a Harvard biologist patented ‘oncomouse’, a GM organism (mouse) predisposed to develop cancer for use in medical ‘research’. By 1997 40 GM ‘species’ of animal had been patented, including turkey, nematodes, mice and rabbits. Hundreds of other patents are pending on pigs, cows, fish, sheep and monkeys among others. In 1976 a leukaemia patient named John Moore had his cancerous spleen removed under surgery at the University of California. Without his knowledge or consent some of the cells from his spleen were cultured and found to produce a protein which could be used in the manufacture of anti-cancer drugs. The estimated value of this cell-line to the pharmaceutical industry is $3 billion. In 1984 the California Supreme Court ruled that he was not entitled to any of these profits.

A US company called Biocyte holds a patent on (owns) all umbilical cord cells. Systemix Inc has a patent on (owns) all human bone marrow stem cells, these being the progenitors of all cells in the blood. The worldwide market for cell lines and tissue cultures was estimated to be worth $426.7 million to the corporations in 1996. Not only cells but also fragments of DNA can be patented (owned) in this way. Incyte, for example, has applied for patents on 1.2 million fragments of human DNA. The logic of this is that ‘genes for’ particular diseases such as cystic fibrosis, diabetes, various cancers etc could become the property of pharmaceutical companies who could then make huge profits on tests for such genes and genebased therapies. There is no space here to get into a lengthy criticism of the reductionist idea that individual genes simply map onto well-defined physical traits underlying the whole theory and practice of GM. It’s enough to say that research into patenting (owning), for example, a supposed’ breast cancer gene’ is of little benefit to humanity if it is true, as some scientists have estimated, that 90% of breast cancers are unrelated to genetics but are triggered by environmental pollution, diet and lifestyle factors. So what’s new? Capitalism, indeed class-society in general, always seizes the living and turns it into profit and power, declares ownership where previously there was only life: from the enclosure of the commons to the seizing of millions of human beings from Africa to be slaves to the current looting of tropical biodiversity for use in the biotech labs.

[rjzimmerman]

Proof from tomatoes that biofertilizers increase yields—minus the environmental costs (Anthropocene Magazine)

Excerpt from this story from Anthropocene Magazine:

Using eco-friendly fertilizers instead of synthetic chemicals produces high quality tomato crops with competitive yields, a team of Italian scientists has shown. 

Their new study considered two groups of fertilizer alternatives: a nutrient-rich algae-infused concoction; and fertilizers made with symbiotic root microbes like fungi and bacteria that fix nutrients from the soil to increase crops’ uptake. These alternatives, known broadly as ‘biofertillizers’, can be made without the emissions-intensive process required to make conventional synthetic fertilizers, and can significantly reduce crops’ need for these chemical additives in the first place.

The researchers tested their alternatives on tomato fields in Italy, where they subjected growing tomato plants to different combinations of the two: some tomatoes received one of two fertilizers through drip irrigation, containing a mix of growth-promoting fungi or bacteria; some were treated with the algae infusion; and others received a combination of both microbial and algal fertilizers. In each case, the fertilizer-treated crops were compared with tomatoes that had received no fertilizers at all. 

Of all the fertilizers, the second microbial mixture containing a combo of root-colonizing fungi and bacteria produced the tallest and bushiest tomatoes, with the largest root mass. The symbiotic root-colonizing behavior of the microbes in this treatment seem to have supported denser, deeper-reaching roots, which can help plants snare more nutrients—and may also help plants to access deeper water sources in times of drought, the researchers say.

The success of that microbial mixture was exceeded only by tomato plants that received it in combination with the algal fertilizer, which was applied to plants as a growth-promoting spray, rich in amino acids, and vitamins. In those tomatoes plants, not only did this combo exceed all growth parameters, but it also produced striking yields: these double-treated crops generated 67.2 tons of tomatoes per hectare, compared to the 30.3 tons per hectare produced when researchers applied the microbial fertilizer on its own—and almost threefold more than the 26 tons per hectare from tomato plots that received no fertilizers at all. 

What’s more, the combination of microbial and algal fertilizers also produced the highest number of marketable fruits, with fewer green and rotten fruits than in those plants that received just one fertilizer treatment or none, the researchers found. Interestingly, they noticed that microbial fertilizers led to larger and sweeter tomatoes, while the algal fertilizers were associated with redder fruits. “We were fascinated by the idea that an environmentally-friendly approach like this could produce such strong results,” the scientists say. 

[ishaanveeresh]

Buying a Premium Refurbished MacBook Pro in Bangalore with Insurance!

If you’ve been considering upgrading to a MacBook Pro but are hesitant due to the hefty price tag of a brand-new device, refurbished options might just be the ideal solution. For those in Bangalore, the market for refurbished electronics, including MacBooks, is steadily growing, offering a blend of affordability and quality.

Why Consider a Refurbished MacBook Pro? Refurbished MacBook Pros are pre-owned devices that undergo a rigorous testing and repair process to ensure they meet performance standards. They’re perfect for professionals, students, or anyone seeking high-performance laptops without breaking the bank. Whether you need it for video editing, graphic design, coding, or general productivity, a refurbished MacBook Pro can handle it all with ease.

One of the main advantages is cost savings. Buying refurbished allows you to access premium Apple hardware at a significantly reduced price. Additionally, many sellers in Bangalore now offer warranties and after-sales support, giving buyers peace of mind.

Where to Find Quality Refurbished MacBooks in Bangalore Bangalore is a tech-savvy city, making it a hotspot for reliable refurbished electronics. You’ll find numerous local stores and online platforms specializing in certified pre-owned gadgets. When selecting a seller, always ensure they provide:

Certification: Look for certified refurbished devices that guarantee quality and reliability.

Warranty: A minimum 6-month warranty is essential for a worry-free purchase.

Customer Reviews: Check online reviews or ask for references to ensure the seller is reputable.

Return Policy: A flexible return policy is crucial in case the product doesn’t meet your expectations.

Some platforms even offer benefits like easy EMI options, product insurance, and doorstep delivery, making the buying process seamless and convenient.

What to Check Before Purchasing When buying a refurbished MacBook Pro, keep the following in mind:

Condition of the Device: Inspect for physical damages and test its performance.

Battery Health: Ensure the battery still holds a good charge.

Specifications: Confirm the model, storage, RAM, and other features align with your needs.

Software Updates: Check if the device supports the latest macOS updates.

The Growing Trend of Sustainability Opting for a refurbished MacBook Pro isn’t just a smart financial decision, it’s also an environmentally friendly choice. By purchasing refurbished electronics, you’re contributing to the reduction of e-waste, a growing concern in urban hubs like Bangalore.

Final Thoughts Buying a refurbished MacBook Pro in Bangalore is an excellent way to get a high-quality device at an affordable price. With trusted sellers and the availability of warranties, you can make a purchase with confidence. Whether you’re a student, professional, or tech enthusiast, a refurbished MacBook Pro can offer the performance and style you need without the premium price tag.

If you’re exploring your options, take your time to research and compare. A trusted seller can make all the difference in your experience. Invest smartly and enjoy the power of a MacBook Pro without compromising on quality or budget. For more information do visit: https://www.shofus.com/

[aishavass]

High demand for water due to rapid industrialization coupled with the deteriorating water resources is expected to be a major factor responsible for the...

[entailglobal]

The Challenges and Opportunities for Agrochemical Exporters in the Global Market

Agrochemicals play a pivotal role in modern agriculture, contributing to increased crop yields and food security worldwide.  As the global population grows, the demand for agricultural products has risen exponentially, creating significant opportunities for agrochemical exporters.  However, this market is not without its challenges.  For agrochemical product exporters in Gujarat, navigating these dynamics requires strategic planning, robust product quality, and an understanding of the global trade environment.

In this blog, we will explore the challenges and opportunities in the global agrochemical market, focusing on how exporters, particularly those among the top 10 agrochemical product exporters in Gujarat, can thrive amidst these evolving conditions.

The Role of Agrochemicals in Agriculture

Agrochemicals encompass fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical products designed to improve agricultural productivity.  These products are critical in controlling pests, enhancing soil fertility, and boosting crop yields, especially in regions with limited arable land or unpredictable climatic conditions.

India, and specifically Gujarat, has emerged as a hub for the production and export of agrochemical products.  Known for their quality and cost-competitiveness, products from the best exporters of agrochemical products in Gujarat are in demand across various global markets.

Challenges Faced by Agrochemical Exporters

1.         Stringent Regulatory Standards

Exporting agrochemicals to international markets involves complying with stringent regulatory requirements.  Countries like the United States, Japan, and European nations have strict environmental and safety standards.  Meeting these demands requires significant investment in research, testing, and compliance, which can be a barrier for small and medium exporters.

2.         Fluctuating Raw Material Costs

The production of agrochemicals depends heavily on raw materials such as petroleum-based products and minerals.  Price volatility in these materials can affect production costs, making it challenging for exporters to maintain competitive pricing.

3.         Trade Barriers and Tariffs

While the global market offers immense opportunities, it is also rife with protectionist policies.  Exporters often face high tariffs, quotas, and non-tariff barriers that can hinder market entry and profitability.

4.         Environmental Concerns

Agrochemical usage is often criticized for its environmental impact, such as soil degradation and water pollution.  Exporters must address these concerns by promoting sustainable practices and environmentally friendly products.

5.         Global Competition

The agrochemical export market is highly competitive, with major players from countries like China, the United States, and Brazil.  For Indian exporters, including those among the top 10 exporters of agrochemical products, staying competitive requires innovation and differentiation.

Opportunities for Agrochemical Exporters

1.         Rising Demand in Emerging Markets

Emerging economies in Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America are experiencing rapid agricultural growth.  These regions present significant opportunities for agrochemical exporters, particularly those offering cost-effective solutions.

2.         Focus on Organic and Sustainable Products

With growing awareness about environmental sustainability, there is an increasing demand for organic and bio-based agrochemical products.  Exporters who can pivot to sustainable offerings stand to gain a competitive edge.

3.         Technological Advancements

Advances in agrochemical formulations, such as slow-release fertilizers and precision application pesticides, have created opportunities for exporters to offer high-value products.  Leveraging such innovations can help agrochemical product exporters in Gujarat capture premium markets.

4.         Government Support

The Indian government supports agrochemical exporters through incentives like subsidies, tax benefits, and streamlined export processes.  By taking advantage of these schemes, exporters can enhance their global competitiveness.

5.         Branding and Market Positioning

Building a strong brand reputation is crucial for success in international markets.  The best exporters of agrochemical products invest in quality assurance, certifications, and marketing to establish themselves as reliable suppliers.

The Competitive Edge of Agrochemical Exporters in Gujarat

Gujarat is renowned for its thriving chemical industry, with state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and access to a well-developed port infrastructure.  This makes it an ideal location for agrochemical production and export.  Many of the top 10 agrochemical product exporters in Gujarat have capitalized on these advantages to establish a strong presence in global markets.

Key Strengths of Gujarat’s Agrochemical Exporters:

Proximity to Raw Materials:  Gujarat’s chemical manufacturing ecosystem ensures easy access to key raw materials, reducing production costs.

Export-Ready Infrastructure:  The state boasts world-class ports, including Mundra and Kandla, facilitating seamless export operations.

Quality Standards:  Exporters in Gujarat prioritize adherence to global quality standards, earning them a reputation as reliable suppliers.

Research and Development:  Many exporters invest heavily in R&D to develop innovative and eco-friendly agrochemical products.

How to Succeed as an Agrochemical Exporter

Understand Global Market Trends Exporters should stay updated on trends such as the shift toward organic farming, the rise of precision agriculture, and changing regulatory landscapes.  This knowledge enables them to adapt their offerings accordingly.

Invest in Technology Leveraging technology in product development and supply chain management can enhance efficiency and competitiveness.  For instance, exporters can use blockchain for traceability or AI to predict market demands.

Build Strategic Partnerships Collaborating with distributors, agricultural organizations, and government agencies can help exporters penetrate new markets and build lasting relationships.

Focus on Sustainability Sustainability is no longer optional in the agrochemical industry.  Exporters should adopt green manufacturing practices and offer products that align with global sustainability goals.

Strengthen Brand Identity A strong brand identity differentiates exporters in a crowded market.  Emphasizing quality, certifications, and customer satisfaction can position exporters among the top 10 exporters of agrochemical products globally.

Conclusion

The global agrochemical market presents a mix of challenges and opportunities.  For agrochemical product exporters in Gujarat, success lies in navigating regulatory hurdles, addressing environmental concerns, and staying competitive through innovation and quality.  By leveraging Gujarat’s strengths as an agrochemical hub and focusing on emerging trends, exporters can position themselves as the best exporters of agrochemical products on the global stage.

With a strategic approach and commitment to excellence, companies can not only overcome challenges but also seize opportunities in this dynamic market, securing a spot among the top 10 agrochemical product exporters in Gujarat and beyond.

[maryharrisk5]

The global environmental water testing market size is expected to reach a valuation of USD 5.35 billion by 2025.

[reviewnearme00]

Jewellery Shop Near Me: Quality And Craftsmanship At Your Doorstep

Jewellery has been an integral part of human culture for thousands of years, serving not only as adornment but also as a symbol of status, love, and tradition. In today's world, the jewellery market has expanded dramatically, offering a plethora of options for consumers. 

While online shopping has gained popularity, the charm and authenticity of visiting a local jewellery shop cannot be understated. This article explores the significance of jewellery shop near me, emphasizing quality, craftsmanship, and the unique experiences they offer.

The Importance of Local Jewellery Shop Near Me

Community Connection

Local jewellery shops often serve as community hubs where people gather to celebrate life’s milestones. From engagements to anniversaries, these shops provide a personal touch that online retailers simply cannot replicate. Shopping locally fosters relationships and jewellers who understand the community's preferences and traditions.

Supporting Local Economy

Purchasing from local jewellery shop near me significantly contributes to the local economy. When you buy from a small business, a larger portion of your money stays within the community, supporting jobs and local services. This economic support helps maintain the character and vibrancy of neighborhoods.

Unique Offerings

Local jewellery shop near me often feature unique pieces that you won't find in mass-produced outlets. Many shop create one-of-a-kind designs, allowing customers to express their individuality. This uniqueness can be particularly appealing for special occasions, where personal touches matter most.

Understanding Quality in Jewellery

Material Quality

When you visit a local jewellery shop near me, you can examine the quality of materials firsthand. Whether it's gold, silver, platinum, or gemstones, local jewellers often prioritize high-quality materials. 

Here’s what to look for:

Metals: Look for hallmarks that indicate purity. For example, 14K gold contains 58.3% gold, while 24K is pure gold.

Gemstones: Quality gemstones are graded based on the Four Cs: Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color. Local jewellers can provide detailed information about the origins and quality of their stones.

Craftsmanship

The craftsmanship of jewellery is a crucial factor in determining its quality. Skilled take pride in their work, ensuring that each piece is crafted with precision and care. 

Here are some aspects to consider:

Design: A well-designed piece should be both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Local jewellers often create custom designs tailored to individual preferences.

Finishing: The finishing touches, such as polishing and setting, can make a significant difference in the overall appearance and durability of the jewellery.

Ethical Considerations

In recent years, consumers have become more conscious of the ethical implications of their purchases. Many local jewellery shop near me prioritize ethical sourcing of materials, ensuring that their products are conflict-free and environmentally sustainable. When shopping locally, you can often inquire directly about the sourcing practices.

The Craftsmanship Behind Local Jewellery

Training and Expertise

The journey to becoming a skilled jeweller involves extensive training. Many local shop  have undergone formal education in jewellery design and manufacturing. This expertise allows them to create high-quality pieces that stand the test of time.

The Role of Technology

While traditional craftsmanship remains at the forefront, technology has also played a significant role in modern jewellery making. Local jewellers often use advanced tools and software to design intricate pieces, combining artistry with precision.

Finding the Right Jewellery Shop Near Me

Researching Local Options

When searching for jewellery shops near me, start by conducting online research. Use search engines and social media platforms to find local jewellers. Check reviews and ratings to gauge customer satisfaction.

Visiting Shops

Once you’ve identified potential shops, take the time to visit them. Pay attention to the shop’s ambiance, customer service, and the variety of jewellery offered. A welcoming environment and knowledgeable staff can enhance your shopping experience.

Asking Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the jewellery, materials, and craftsmanship. A reputable jeweller will be more than happy to share information about their products and processes. Here are some questions to consider:

What materials do you use, and where do they come from?

Can you explain the process behind a specific piece?

Do you offer custom design services?

The Experience of Shopping Local For Jewellery Shop Near Me

Personal Service

One of the most significant advantages of shopping at local jewellery shops is the personalized service you receive. Local jewellers often take the time to understand your needs and preferences, guiding you toward the perfect piece. This level of service creates a memorable shopping experience.

Customisation Options

Many local jewellery shops offer customization options, allowing you to create a piece that truly reflects your style. Whether it’s altering an existing design or starting from scratch, the ability to customize adds a personal touch to your jewellery.

Education and Expertise

Local jewellers are often passionate about their craft and enjoy sharing their knowledge with customers. They can provide valuable insights into the history, care, and maintenance of jewellery, helping you make informed decisions.

Celebrating Special Occasions with Local Jewellers

Engagements and Weddings

Jewellery plays a significant role in engagements and weddings. Local jewellers can help you find or create the perfect engagement ring, as well as matching wedding bands. Their expertise ensures that you receive high-quality pieces that symbolize your love.

Anniversaries and Milestones

Celebrating anniversaries and milestones with meaningful jewellery is a cherished tradition. Local shops often have a selection of pieces designed specifically for these occasions, making it easy to find something special.

Gifts for Loved Ones

Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, or holiday, local jewellery shops offer a variety of options for gifting. From necklaces to bracelets, the personal touch of shopping locally adds significance to your gift.

ImplyCart: Enhancing Your Local Shopping Experience

Discovering Local Jewellers

ImplyCart is a platform designed to connect consumers with local businesses, including jewellery shops. You can easily discover jewellery shops near you, complete with reviews, ratings, and detailed information about their offerings.

User Reviews and Feedback

One of the standout features of, its user-generated reviews. Customers can share their experiences, providing valuable insights into the quality of products and services offered by local jewellers. This feedback helps you make informed decisions and find the best shops in your area.

Comparing Options

They allows you to compare different jewellery shops based on various criteria, such as price, quality, and customer service. This feature ensures that you find the perfect jeweller to meet your needs.

Promotions and Discounts

Many local jewellery shops offer promotions and discounts through platforms. By keeping an eye on these deals, you can save money while still supporting local shops.

The Future of Local Jewellery Shop Near Me

Adapting to Change

As consumer preferences evolve, local jewellery shops must adapt to remain relevant. Many are embracing technology, enhancing their online presence, and offering virtual consultations to reach a broader audience. This adaptability ensures that they can continue to serve their communities effectively.

Sustainability Practices

With growing awareness of environmental issues, local jewellery shops are increasingly adopting sustainable practices. This includes using ethically sourced materials, minimizing waste, and promoting eco-friendly designs. By prioritizing sustainability, these shops can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Community Engagement

Local jewellery shops that engage with their communities through events, workshops, and collaborations will likely thrive. By fostering connections and building relationships, they can create a loyal customer base that values their contributions to the community.

Conclusion

Jewellery shops near you offer a unique blend of quality, craftsmanship, and personal service that enhances the shopping experience. By supporting local shops, you not only find beautiful pieces of jewellery but also contribute to your community's economy and culture. 

The next time you consider purchasing jewellery, remember the value of visiting a local shop. The experience, quality, and craftsmanship you’ll find at your doorstep are truly unparalleled.

Final Thoughts

In a world dominated by online shopping, local jewellery shops remind us of the importance of connection, quality, and tradition. By choosing to shop locally, you’re investing in more than just a piece of jewellery, celebrating community, and embracing the artistry that defines our culture. So, take the time to explore the jewellery shops near me, and discover the treasures waiting to be found.

[chingleung]

Zhejiang Chingleung New Material Technology Co.,Ltd.

About us

Jingliang Technology was established in 1995. The group includes Jingliang Technology (Suzhou Co., Ltd. and Zhejiang Jingliang New Materials Technology Co., Ltd.) and 23 branches at home and abroad. The Suzhou factory is located in the industrial park adjacent to the brilliant Jinji Lake and Dushu Lake, with masterbatch new materials as its main business; the Zhejiang factory is located in Yonghe Industrial Zone, Shangyu, Shaoxing, adjacent to the beautiful Siming Lake, with a forest oxygen bar and extremely convenient transportation. In recent years, with the further regulation and advocacy of environmentally friendly materials by the state, people's lives are increasingly closely linked to green products. Zhejiang Jingliang has specially established an environmentally friendly biodegradable material and product research and development expert team, focusing on the research and development, production and sales of biodegradable materials, biodegradable masterbatches and a series of biodegradable products such as 3D printing wires, straws, cups, tableware, shopping bags, packaging bags, garbage bags, express bags, films and sheets, etc. The group has internationally advanced color matching systems, high-end extrusion production lines, high-grade dust-free clean workspaces, the latest 3D Printing wire, film, sheet, straw, cup, bag, tableware and other manufacturing equipment and many complete testing equipment have created green products with both scientific and practical features. In order to bring better products and services to customers, the group passed the S9001.2000 international quality certification in 2000; UL safety certification; QS certification; the products have also been tested by the SGS authoritative testing agency and UL safety agency, and all meet environmental protection standards; and passed the tests required for domestic and foreign market access GB/T19277.1-2011, GB/T 18006.3-2020, GB/T 38727-2020, GB/T3 8082-2019, etc., in line with the testing of ASTMD, EN13432 and certification DIN Certco, BPI, OK biobased, OK compostable, USDA, etc., providing complete environmentally friendly plastic packaging solutions for large domestic and foreign companies.

[ovathemoon]

Is Air Pollution linked to Menarche?

This is a summary post of a recent article on menarche (the term for the “first period”). I found it pretty interesting and something to keep an eye out for future research. As usual, continue to use your critical thinking skills, and if you'd like to learn more, read on!

REPORT: Recent research (May 2024) shows that air pollution may be linked to girls starting their periods earlier.

BACKGROUND: • It has been estimated that menarche (the term for the “first period”) now starts up to four years earlier in American girls compared to a century ago. • Decreasing ages for the onset of puberty are more noticeable in lower socioeconomic status and ethnic minority groups (A. Gaskins, associate professor at Emory University in Atlanta, the US). • Puberty is controlled by two systems in the body: the HPA axis and the HPG axis. o HPA: hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (i.e., from the hypothalamus in the brain to the pituitary gland beneath the brain and the adrenal gland atop each kidney) o HPG: hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (i.e., to the gonads, the testes or ovaries)

THEORIES: • A former belief was that childhood obesity was the only reason for premature puberty since fat cells produce proteins that fuel the HPA and HPG axes. o However, this idea doesn't explain why menarche would start earlier in those without childhood obesity. • Current research indicates that toxins could be affecting the HPA and HPG axes, disrupting their activity. o Toxins include toxic gases expelled into the air from vehicle emissions or manufacturing output. o These gases include: sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone.

TAKEAWAYS: • Toxins may also be in products that are often marketed to girls (including makeup or menstrual hygiene products, like tampons). • Earlier menarche may be caused by multiple factors, including childhood obesity, environmental/household toxins, and psychosocial factors (like childhood stress) • Overall, it is important to consider menarche ages since earlier ages of onset could lead to poor health outcomes later on

FOR MORE DETAILS: Please refer to the BBC article that this summary post is based on. A. Gaskins, associate professor at Emory University in Atlanta, the US, is quoted in this article and explains about the impact of earlier menarches in girls around the world.

Resource Links https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240605-how-air-pollution-is-impacting-girls-puberty https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3287288/

Please note this post and site is for information purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or care. Please contact a qualified healthcare provider if you seek care. Thank you.