#Sharps Waste Disposal

[gbwastemanagements]

Sharps waste disposal

Sharps waste disposal makes up a sizable portion of biomedical waste. They rank among the most hazardous wastes.Here Read the  Journey Of Sharps Waste Disposal.

[borgcorporate]

What is Waste Management and Recycling

Developing a better understanding of Recycling Waste Management and recycling could lead to new perspectives in resource conservation and prevention. The process of recycling involves the recovery of economic value from solid waste. This can be achieved in a number of ways.

The process involves three steps: source separation, preparation for collection, and processing into new products. The first step, source separation, involves separating waste from raw materials. This can be done at the source of waste, a central mechanical processing facility, or at the curbside.

The second stage, preparation for collection, involves preparing the materials for recycling. This may involve washing, sorting, and transportation. The simplest way to do this is to separate the refuse into a few categories.

The process of recycling may involve composting. Composting is the reclaiming of organic materials from solid waste. This may be used as a soil conditioner or mulch.

The process of recycling may also involve the recovery of heat energy. This can be achieved through the reuse of old newspapers, aluminum cans, and glass bottles.

The most effective way to increase recycling is to provide coherent information. This information helps to promote participation and encourages the development of effective schemes. Ideally, this information should be based on a combination of scientific, technological, and human factors.

The waste management sector has witnessed a significant increase in activity over the last few years. This has resulted in an exponential growth in the amount of waste produced. Combined with a growing focus on sustainable practices of waste disposal, this has encouraged the adoption of technical processes in the waste management industry.

[wikipediapictures]

Sharps waste

[aquietwhyme]

PSA

This is a reminder that if you use needles for any reason, you should dispose of them in a sharps container.

Whether you are diabetic and inject insulin, trans and inject hormones, use injectable drugs, have MRSA and use intravenous antibiotics, whatever the reason, please think of the safety of sanitation workers. Razors too ought to go in a sharps container.

A hard tough plastic container is ideal, the kind that laundry detergent comes in, or Ovaltine, anything that won't shatter or be pierced by the needles without great force being applied, and wrap it in duct tape and label it when it's mostly full. Local regulations differ on what's legally required, though of course most people ignore them anyway, but follow those if they have specific requirements.

The job of a sanitation worker is quite hazardous, and generally on the middle to low pay scale (though that too differs enormously by area) so think of it not only as doing better by the environment but by the workers that help society function.

[scientific-tricorder]

[Image description: A series of six images. The first shows a screenshot from The Original Series in which a man is wearing a full body protective suit in a frosted over room. One of his gloves is off, and the bare hand is circled and has text that reads: 'Gloves OFF? in HAZARDOUS ZONE?'

The second is another screenshot from The Original Series, showing McCoy and Chapel next to a biobed for surgery in sickbay. McCoy's head is circled and labelled with 'leaving hair strand in your patients innards as a little post surgery gift'. The open door is labelled with 'The DOOR is OPEN?' Chapel's bare hand is circled with the text 'GLOVES?', and text on the bottom reads 'Sterile field Where?'

The third is a screenshot from Strange New Worlds, showing M'Benga pouring a red liquid from a bottle into an Erlenmeyer flask. Text reading 'UNLABELLED' is on the bottle, and arrows point to M'Benga's bare hand with the text 'GLOVES?' Underneath the flask, text reads 'who the hell pours chemicals straight from the bottle into an erlenmeyer flask please use a graduated cylinder or a pipette'.

The fourth is a screenshot from Strange New Worlds showing M'Benga leaning on the lab bench, with many open vials of colored liquid scattered on it. His bare hand is circled with text reading 'GLOVES?' and an arrow points to his uniform with the text 'LAB COAT?' A food container on the bench is circled with text reading 'NO FOOD OR DRINKS ON THE LAB BENCH'. Text near the bottom reads 'ALL THESE UNLABELLED OPEN TO THE AIR CHEMICALS?'

The next image is another screenshot, a panning from the previous one showing further down the lab bench. An Erlenmeyer flask with red fluid and a pipette in it is circled and labelled 'leaving your pipette IN the liquid?' A lab tube rack with open lab tubes containing various colored liquids is circled with text reading 'What the fuck dude'. Large text along the bottom reads 'UNLABELLED!'

The final image shows a picture of a black lab bench with various unlabelled spray bottles and bottles full of various colored liquids and an empty Erlenmeyer flask. Text near the bottom reads 'no comment'. /end description]

I love Star Trek with all my heart, but good god, whenever I see them do "Science" it makes me laugh so hard because PPE and Safety Protocols are literally nonexistent

Not to mention WHERE is the fume hood......

And not a single Electronic balance to be seen

[davidrian123]

Medical Waste Disposal in Tampa: Regulations, Compliance, and Best Practices

Proper medical waste disposal isn’t just a regulatory necessity in Tampa—it’s a critical component of public health and environmental safety. From hospitals and clinics to tattoo parlors and nursing homes, all facilities generating medical waste must follow strict guidelines to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This article provides an overview of medical waste disposal in Tampa, covering the essential rules, compliance tips, and best practices to help healthcare providers and businesses stay safe and avoid penalties.

So, whether you manage a hospital or just wonder what happens to used medical supplies, this guide will break down the do’s and don’ts of handling medical waste disposal in Tampa. Let's dive in before things get... well, hazardous.

Understanding Medical Waste: More Than Just Trash

Medical waste includes any waste generated from healthcare facilities, research labs, and similar settings that could pose risks to humans, animals, or the environment. In Tampa, the following are classified as medical waste:

Sharps: Needles, scalpels, and syringes

Pathological Waste: Tissues, organs, or fluids

Infectious Waste: Lab cultures or items contaminated with blood

Pharmaceutical Waste: Expired medications and chemicals

Contaminated PPE: Gloves, masks, and gowns

Improper disposal of these materials can lead to the spread of infections, injuries, and environmental contamination. Tampa’s guidelines ensure that such waste is handled with care from start to finish.

Tampa’s Medical Waste Disposal Regulations

Medical waste disposal in Tampa is regulated by the Florida Department of Health (DOH). Local healthcare facilities must comply with these rules, which are aligned with state and federal laws, including the Florida Administrative Code 64E-16 and OSHA standards. Here are the key components:

Licensing and Permits: Facilities generating medical waste must obtain permits from the DOH. These permits are subject to annual renewals and inspections.

Storage Limits: Medical waste can be stored for a maximum of 30 days before disposal, regardless of whether the container is full.

Labeling Requirements: All waste bags and containers must be properly labeled with the universal biohazard symbol and the generator’s name and address.

Use of Approved Haulers: Only licensed haulers may transport medical waste to certified treatment facilities. Facilities that generate waste must maintain transport logs as proof of compliance.

If this sounds complicated, you’re not alone. Many facilities work with waste disposal experts to navigate these regulations smoothly—because no one wants to accidentally break the law over a bag of used gloves.

Best Practices for Medical Waste Disposal in Tampa

1. Segregate Waste at the Source

Separate medical waste from regular trash to reduce disposal costs and minimize risks. Use color-coded containers (like red bags for biohazardous waste) to make segregation easy for staff.

2. Train Your Employees Regularly

Regular training sessions ensure your staff is up-to-date on disposal procedures. The DOH requires annual training, and it’s a good idea to go beyond the minimum with refresher courses to keep everyone sharp.

3. Monitor Waste Generation Levels

Keep track of how much waste your facility generates to optimize storage and collection schedules. Regular monitoring can also help you identify ways to reduce waste output.

4. Use Licensed Disposal Partners

Partnering with a licensed medical waste disposal service ensures your waste is handled in compliance with Tampa’s regulations. These partners take care of collection, transportation, and disposal, leaving you to focus on your core business.

5. Stay Ahead of Inspections

Maintain proper documentation, including permits, transport logs, and training records, to be ready for inspections at any time. Failing an inspection could lead to fines and even suspension of your permit.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Avoiding Trouble

Failing to comply with Tampa’s medical waste regulations can result in serious penalties, including:

Fines: Up to $5,000 per violation per day

Suspension of Permits: Non-compliant facilities risk losing their operating permits

Lawsuits: Improper disposal that causes harm can lead to legal action

Avoiding these penalties is as simple as following the rules—but just like filing taxes, it’s easier said than done.

Conclusion: Keep Tampa Safe and Compliant

Proper medical waste disposal in Tampa is essential for protecting public health and the environment. Compliance with Tampa’s waste regulations ensures that medical facilities operate safely and efficiently, while minimizing risks of legal trouble or environmental harm. Following best practices—like segregating waste, training employees, and using licensed disposal partners—will help your facility stay compliant and avoid penalties.

But medical waste isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about safeguarding our community. Ready to learn more about the intricacies of sharps disposal? Be sure to check out our next article, "Safe and Effective Sharps Disposal Solutions in Tampa," to tackle one of the trickiest parts of medical waste management.

[babyprincegladiator]

Soluciones de eliminación de desechos punzantes, previsión del tamaño del mercado mundial, clasificación y cuota de mercado de las 14 principales empresas

Según el nuevo informe de investigación de mercado “Informe del Mercado Global del Soluciones de eliminación de desechos punzantes 2024-2030”, publicado por QYResearch, se prevé que el tamaño del mercado mundial del Soluciones de eliminación de desechos punzantes alcance 2.44 mil millones de USD en 2030, con una tasa de crecimiento anual constante del 7.8% durante el período de previsión.

Figure 1. Tamaño del mercado de Soluciones de eliminación de desechos punzantes global (US$ Millión), 2019-2030

Según QYResearch, los principales fabricantes mundiales de Soluciones de eliminación de desechos punzantes incluyen Stericycle, Waste Management, Veolia, Remondis, Clean Harbors, Cleanaway, Sharps Medical Waste Services, Daniels Health, Republic Services, Logistics Recycling, etc. En 2023, las cinco principales entidades mundiales tenían una cuota de aproximadamente 40.0% en términos de ingresos.

Figure 2. Clasificación y cuota de mercado de las 14 principales entidades globales de Soluciones de eliminación de desechos punzantes (la clasificación se basa en los ingresos de 2023, actualizados continuamente)

Sobre QYResearch

QYResearch se fundó en California (EE.UU.) en 2007 y es una empresa líder mundial en consultoría e investigación de mercados. Con más de 17 años de experiencia y un equipo de investigación profesional en varias ciudades del mundo, QY Research se centra en la consultoría de gestión, los servicios de bases de datos y seminarios, la consultoría de OPI, la investigación de la cadena industrial y la investigación personalizada para ayudar a nuestros clientes a proporcionar un modelo de ingresos no lineal y hacer que tengan éxito. Gozamos de reconocimiento mundial por nuestra amplia cartera de servicios, nuestra buena ciudadanía corporativa y nuestro firme compromiso con la sostenibilidad. Hasta ahora, hemos colaborado con más de 60.000 clientes en los cinco continentes. Trabajemos estrechamente con usted y construyamos un futuro audaz y mejor.

QYResearch es una empresa de consultoría a gran escala de renombre mundial. La industria cubre varios segmentos de mercado de la cadena de la industria de alta tecnología, que abarca la cadena de la industria de semiconductores (equipos y piezas de semiconductores, materiales semiconductores, circuitos integrados, fundición, embalaje y pruebas, dispositivos discretos, sensores, dispositivos optoelectrónicos), cadena de la industria fotovoltaica (equipos, células, módulos, soportes de materiales auxiliares, inversores, terminales de centrales eléctricas), nueva cadena de la industria del automóvil de energía (baterías y materiales, piezas de automóviles, baterías, motores, control electrónico, semiconductores de automoción, etc.. ), cadena de la industria de la comunicación (equipos de sistemas de comunicación, equipos terminales, componentes electrónicos, front-end de RF, módulos ópticos, 4G/5G/6G, banda ancha, IoT, economía digital, IA), cadena de la industria de materiales avanzados (materiales metálicos, materiales poliméricos, materiales cerámicos, nanomateriales, etc.), cadena de la industria de fabricación de maquinaria (máquinas herramienta CNC, maquinaria de construcción, maquinaria eléctrica, automatización 3C, robots industriales, láser, control industrial, drones), alimentación, bebidas y productos farmacéuticos, equipos médicos, agricultura, etc.

[acrswastesolutions]

Reliable Medical Waste Disposal in Tampa, Florida with ACRS Waste Solutions

For dependable Medical Waste Disposal Tampa Florida, trust ACRS Waste Solutions. Our waste management company specializes in the safe and compliant handling of medical waste, ensuring your facility adheres to all regulations. We provide tailored solutions for healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and dental offices. With ACRS Waste Solutions, you can expect timely pickups, secure transport, and eco-friendly disposal methods. Our commitment to safety and sustainability makes us the top choice for waste management company in Tampa. Partner with us for efficient and responsible medical waste disposal.

[biohazardwastedisposal]

[gbwastemanagements]

KNOW THE COMPLETE JOURNEY OF SHARPS WASTE DISPOSAL

Sharps waste disposal is one of the most critical in healthcare waste disposal, know how it works. Sharps waste management can achieve 100% safety only if you are aware of the procedure.

[biowastefl]

How To Ensure Biowaste Waste Removal in Palm Harbor and Clearwater, FL?

Disposing of the sharp implements properly is imperative. Discarding the needles, scalpels, and broken syringes in the trash can is also a strict no-no. The best way to be rid of them is to comply with the FDA and OSHA standards. Clinics, dental practices, laboratories, and vet care centers use the sharp equipment regularly for treatment and research. Not conforming to the regulations can result in heavy penalties and revocation of the license. Every facility thus needs to be informed about the accepted procedures of sharps disposal in Trinity and Tampa, FL. ​ It is vital to source the right colored container when discarding the sharps. Another thing to keep in mind is the quantity of storage. Filling the container to the brim would be foolhardy and risk injury. Such injuries may become fatal as it facilitates the transfer of blood-borne pathogens to the living body. Disposal of the containers is easy enough. One can contact a service provider that is well-informed about the local and state regulations related to proper disposal. Such providers often have their vehicles to comply with the standards. Contacting them for weekly disposal of filled containers can enable a facility to ensure safety for all concerned.

What are Sharps? Sharp implements that can pierce, puncture, or cut through human flesh are known as sharps. All sharp instruments and tools used on the patients for diagnosis and treatment are regarded as sharps. Some of the most common sharps that must be disposed of according to the state and/or community standards and comply with the FDA regulations include the following:-

· Needles · Syringes · Scalpels · Connection needles · Auto-injectors · Infusion sets · Lancets

Sharps Disposal Containers The FDA categorizes the sharps containers as class II devices! These are subjected to premarket notification (510(k)) requirements.

The containers have to be of a particular design as well. It needs to be manufactured out of hard plastic or metal. The sides of the container should be resistant to punctures, with the bottom and sides of the container leak-proof, too. The management of the facility should ensure sourcing sufficient quantities of sharps containers as approved by the FDA. Moreover, the cleaning staff of medical facilities, laboratories, and pharmacies should check the OSHA regulations for blood-borne pathogens and needle stick prevention before disposing the biohazardous wastes such as sharps.

It is vital to respect the color coding rules related to disposal. The biohazard sharps containing blood and remnants of bodily fluid from the patients must be stored in a red container with the biohazard label displayed prominently.

One may also use yellow containers with a red label indicating their use. The word SHARPs should be visible on the label so there is no error in understanding the purpose.

Proper treatment and subsequent biowaste waste removal in Palm Harbor and Clearwater, FL, must be done according to the standards. It can be ensured by connecting with a company with an excellent reputation for the perfect disposal of such substances without violating rules. 

[fellowsgrabaway]

Best Grab Lorry Hire Services in Kidderminster

Want to hire an affordable lorry service? Fellows Grabaway provides a full range of grab lorry hire services in Kidderminster and muck away services. It makes no difference whether you need it for a one-time domestic clearance, clearing a building, or for demolition sites. For additional information, connect us: https://www.fellows-grabaway.co.uk/index.php/grab-hire

[advantagemws]

Advantage Medical Waste Solutions : Medical Waste Disposal

There are many methods of Medical Waste Disposal, biomedical waste is not disposed of in the same way, and there are different disposal companies that use different methods for biomedical waste, so many methods include autoclaving one of them, this autoclave process involves autoclaving steam sterilization by simply entering hot steam for a clearly defined period of time.

But at the end of the process, the microorganisms are destroyed during this process.

[davidrian123]

Florida Biomedical Waste: What Healthcare Facilities Need to Know About Safe Disposal

Managing Florida biomedical waste isn't just a task—it’s a responsibility. With strict regulations in place, healthcare facilities must ensure proper disposal to protect public health and the environment. From hospitals to clinics and even veterinary practices, understanding how to safely handle biomedical waste is critical. Because, let’s face it, the last thing anyone wants is an unexpected encounter with a biohazard outside the clinic.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential practices for managing biomedical waste in Florida, keeping facilities compliant, and ensuring the safety of everyone involved—without sacrificing a sense of humor.

What is Biomedical Waste in Florida?

Biomedical waste refers to any waste that contains infectious or potentially infectious materials. This includes blood-soaked gauze, used needles, and other items that can transmit diseases if improperly handled. Florida biomedical waste management ensures these materials are carefully collected, stored, and disposed of to prevent contamination.

Biomedical waste is divided into several categories, such as:

Sharps waste: Needles, syringes, and scalpels.

Infectious waste: Blood and bodily fluid-soaked items.

Pathological waste: Human tissues or organs.

Pharmaceutical waste: Expired or unused medications.

Florida healthcare facilities must segregate biomedical waste from general waste to prevent contamination risks. As they say, “Don’t mix regular trash with hazardous waste—because no one wants to deal with that kind of surprise during garbage day.”

Florida Regulations for Biomedical Waste Disposal

The Florida Department of Health has set strict guidelines for the management of biomedical waste to ensure public health and safety. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties and environmental hazards. Lucky for healthcare providers, these rules are straightforward if followed properly.

Key Regulations to Know:

Proper Labeling and Packaging:

All biomedical waste must be placed in red, leak-proof bags with the biohazard symbol.

Containers for sharps should be puncture-resistant and properly labeled to avoid needle-stick injuries.

Storage Limits:

Biomedical waste cannot be stored for more than 30 days at room temperature.

Facilities need to ensure that waste is stored securely and away from public access.

Use of Licensed Disposal Services:

Only licensed biomedical waste disposal companies are allowed to collect and transport hazardous materials.

Ensure that your disposal provider complies with both state and federal guidelines.

Documentation and Compliance Records:

Healthcare facilities must maintain detailed records of waste disposal activities.

These records should be readily available for audits or inspections—because no one enjoys a last-minute scramble to find paperwork!

Best Practices for Safe Biomedical Waste Disposal in Florida

Staying compliant with Florida biomedical waste regulations isn’t just about following rules—it’s about creating a safe environment for staff, patients, and the public. Here are some best practices to ensure safe disposal:

1. Waste Segregation at the Source

Sorting waste at the point of generation is critical. Keep sharps waste, infectious materials, and pharmaceutical waste in separate, labeled containers.

Tip: Don’t let sharps mingle with regular trash—it’s like mixing up your coffee and tea; no good comes from it.

Use clearly marked bins to make segregation easier for staff.

2. Regular Training for Staff

Make sure your staff understands the importance of handling biomedical waste properly. Provide training on how to use PPE, handle sharps, and follow waste protocols.

Refresher courses help ensure compliance, especially with evolving regulations.

Consider adding a little friendly competition—“Who can follow waste protocols perfectly for 30 days?”

3. Partner with a Reliable Biomedical Waste Disposal Company

Not all disposal companies are created equal. Choose a licensed provider that meets the highest standards for handling biomedical waste in Florida.

Look for a company that offers flexible pickup schedules and emergency services.

Bonus: They’ll handle the dirty work, so you don’t have to.

4. Monitor Waste Generation Patterns

Keep an eye on how much waste your facility generates to optimize disposal schedules and avoid overflow.

Reducing waste generation where possible can save costs.

Try tracking your waste metrics—it’s like counting steps, but for trash.

5. Maintain Clean and Secure Storage Areas

Ensure that biomedical waste storage areas are clean, organized, and restricted to authorized personnel.

Label bins and containers clearly to avoid confusion.

Secure storage areas prevent unauthorized access and environmental contamination.

Common Challenges in Managing Biomedical Waste in Florida

While the rules are clear, managing biomedical waste in Florida can still present some challenges. Here are a few common hurdles healthcare facilities may face—and how to overcome them:

Staff Turnover and Training Gaps

Frequent staff changes can lead to gaps in waste handling knowledge.

Solution: Provide regular training sessions and assign a compliance officer to oversee waste management.

Overfilled Waste Bins

Overflowing bins are both unsightly and unsafe.

Solution: Monitor waste levels and schedule pickups before bins reach capacity.

Compliance Fatigue

Keeping up with ever-changing regulations can feel overwhelming.

Solution: Partner with a knowledgeable waste disposal service to stay ahead of regulatory changes.

Why Safe Disposal of Biomedical Waste in Florida Matters

Proper biomedical waste disposal in Florida isn’t just about following the law—it’s about protecting public health and the environment. Improper disposal can lead to serious consequences, including the spread of infections and environmental contamination.

By adhering to regulations and following best practices, healthcare providers ensure that their waste management processes contribute to a healthier community. After all, healthcare is about healing, not harming—and that includes keeping hazardous waste where it belongs.

Conclusion

In Florida, healthcare facilities have a responsibility to manage biomedical waste safely and efficiently. By understanding the types of waste, following state regulations, and adopting best practices, providers can stay compliant and ensure public safety. Managing biomedical waste doesn’t have to be complicated—especially with the right team and processes in place. To learn more about the environmental impact of biomedical waste and how facilities can adopt sustainable practices, continue to the next article in our series: How Biomedical Waste in Florida Affects Public Health and the Environment.

[bethanythebogwitch]

Wet Beast Wednesday: abalone

This is a Wet Beast Wednesday post, but it would also be applicable for Mollusk Monday and maybe even Flat Fuck Friday. Today I'll be introducing you to the abalone. The squat snails have some strange features that set them apart from their fellows in the shell squad. Unfortunately, over harvesting of abalone for their meat and shells have put many abalone species in danger.

(Image: an abalone attached to a rock. It is a snail with a large, broad, and flat brown shell. A muscular foot attaches the animal to the rock. Around the body is a membrane covered in tentacles that reach out around the body. End ID)

Abalone are marine snails of the genus Haliotis (not to be confused with halitosis) that can range in shell diameter from 20 mm (0.8 in) to 300 mm (12 in). The number of species is a matter of some debate. There's a lot of variation in morphology within species which led to many species being incorrectly classified as multiple species. The most accepted number appears to be 56 species and 18 subspecies. Abalone shells are highly flattened and the spiral can be hard to see, making them look like large limpets. They have no operculum and cannot withdraw into their shells like other snails can. Instead, when threatened they suction as hard as possible to an object. The shells have holes in them on one side which are used for respiration, waste disposal, and release of gametes. As abalone grow, the number of holes will change with some being filled in and new ones forming. The interior of the shell is covered in nacre. This substance, also called mother-of-pearl is valuable for its polished, iridescent appearance. Abalone use the nacre to make claw-shaped pearls. The shell is composed of microscopic bricks of calcium carbonate glued together by a protein structure. When pressure is applied to the structure, the bricks slide against each other and the protein glue stretches. This helps absorb the energy of blows and makes the shells very resistant to cracking. The shell structure of abalone has been studied to make sturdier body armor and ceramics.

(Image: an empty and polished abalone shell, seen from below. The shell is lined with shiny and iridescent nacre. The nacre color varies with species, but in this case is blue-green. A line of holes are on one side of the shell. End ID)

The majority of the shell's interior is filled with the muscular foot, which the abalone uses for locomotion. The foot is attached to the shell in the center. Around the edge of the foot is a structure called the epipodium. This is a frilled membrane lined with sensory tentacles. When an abalone is relaxed, it will extend the tentacles to examine its surrounding. When threatened, the tentacles retract for safety. Along the edge of the shell is the mantle, which produced the material for the shell. Abalone will grow larger throughout their lives, with the mantle continuously making new shell. At the front is the head, which has sensory tentacles and a mouth that contains a pair of oral tentacles use for finding food and the radula. The radula is a tongue-like structure lines with sharp teeth. The teeth scrape algae off of rocks and into the mouth. The teeth are arranged in rows that move forward like a conveyor belt, allowing worn out teeth to fall out and be replaced by fresh ones. The head is near the newest-formed hole and the anus is next to the rearmost hole.

(Image: an abalone seen from below, with the foor removed and anatomy labeled. The organs circle around a central muscle that the foot attaches to. A small head is in the front while the epipodium rings the body. Source. End ID)

(Image: an abalone's radula, removed and next to a pencil for scale. It is a long, thin structure lined with rows of tiny teeth. The front end is stained brown with algae. End ID)

Abalone live on coasts worldwide, with the exception of the North American Atlantic coast, South American Pacific Coast, and the poles. Most species live in cold water, but tropical species are known. They spend their times feeding on algae. Abalone shells are usually covered with life, including algae and sessile animals like tunicates, sponges, and tube worms. The hitchhikers combined with the upper shell's dull appearances serves as effective camouflage. During mating season, males and females release gametes into the water. The number of eggs a female can produce increases with size and can be up to 11 million per season. The larvae start out in a swimming form before metamorphosing into non-swimming juveniles called spat. Abalone reach sexual maturity young and at a small size.

(Iamge: dozens of abalone spat in a tank. They are miniature versions of the adults, but have nacre on the outside of the shell as well, giving them a shiny turquoise color. End ID)

Abalone have been hunted by huamns for millennia, with the oldest evidence of use being a 100,000 year old "workshop" found in Blombos Cave, South Africa, where abalone shells were used as storage for ochre mixtures. Throughout their native ranges, abalone have been harvested for their meat, nacre, and pearls. The shells are often used for jewelry, as decorative inlay, and, in some cultures, as currency. The foot is edible and considered a delicacy in some cultures and a staple in others. The value of abalone has led to worldwide overfishing, resulting in many species being endangered. Captive farming has become a major industry in many places to meet the abalone demands. Farming began in China and Japan in the 1950s and 60s and the majority of abalone farms are still in east Asia. Because of overfishing, the majority of the world's abalone supply now comes from farms. Sport fishing is legal in many parts of the world, with 25% of the wild harvest coming from Tasmania. Many places require permits and have catch limits, but poaching remains a major industry. Collection of abalone is usually done with a blunt scoop called an abalone iron that can pop the animal off of rocks. It has to be blunt because abalone blood does not clot and any cut will lead to the animal bleeding to death. Overharvesting and increasing ocean acidification are the largest threats to abalone. Places where abalone are reintroduced to the wild have seen increased biodiversity and environmental health.

(Image: a carving made by the Haida people of British Columbia, Canada. It reselbles a face with a tall hat or head with a small body carved on it. Abalone shells are used for inlay,, cut into rectangles with the nacre facing out. End ID)

[son1c]

in a fit of what i can only describe as "pure madness," i wrote this entire thing from 12AM to 4AM last night. it's for 10verse. it's related to these drawings. i hope you like it

RETURN TO SENDER

Plants roared in the great forest of Boscage Maze. Not literally, of course. They didn't have mouths. But as vines whipped and branches slashed, sending a flurry of poisonous leaves exploding in every direction, one could be fooled.

Sonic and his friends-who-weren't-his-friends had to be mindful of jagged wooden teeth as they reached down from the treetops to snap at them. While passing by one such monster, Whirley nearly lost an ear, but was saved by Windthrow. It was hard work navigating the dangerous forest, but between Sonic's spindashes and Thorn Rose's hammer, they managed to bash their way through the foliage and into the deepest part of the Boscage.

This made the plants angry. Since they'd connected with a mind greater than their own, they'd learned how to feel. And now, the hive buzzed with its collective rage as it convulsed its million limbs.

Thorns shot out from the brush like arrows. Prim had to fold in her wings and drop down to avoid becoming Swiss cheese. Although, maybe that would've been preferable to the dirt and bugs crawling on the forest floor. She stuck her tongue out in distaste.

But it was too late to turn back now.

The heart of the Boscage was just up ahead--that much was obvious to Sonic. Sure, it was just as green as the rest of the forest, but the way the vines weaved around each other, creating a tangled nest of knotted foliage gave it away. That, and the sickly light of the Green Prism Shard leaking through the cracks.

With the killer plants hot on their trail, Sonic motioned for everyone to stop. Wasting no time, he curled into a ball and slammed into the wall of snarled vines at top speed. His sharp quills sliced through the plants with some trouble--because they were so thick--but his will was stronger than their defenses. After successfully sawing a door through the vines, he stood and turned back toward his companions.

"Did someone call a gardener?" he quipped with a wink.

Everyone rolled their eyes.

"Tough crowd," Sonic muttered.

But then the vines began to squirm. Realizing they were already starting to regrow, everyone hurried through the gap Sonic had created. It closed behind them shortly after.

Gnarly gulped. "You don't think they're gonna eat us, do ya? The a-a-aliens?"

Thorn Rose slammed the handle of her hammer down in front of her, making Gnarly jump. "We're as good as eaten if we don't fight back!" she snapped. "The Green needs our help. Without it, we're all alien food."

Gnarly grimaced, but didn't argue.

Halcyon turned to face Sonic. "Your plan is unlikely to succeed," he said matter-of-factly. "However, I will allow you to attempt it. Once. In the case that it fails, I will do whatever it takes to dispose of the Black Arms."

Sonic grinned. "One shot's all I need," he said confidently.

Halcyon considered this. After a moment, he nodded.

Sonic tried not to think about how much Halcyon looked like Shadow when he did that. Not like it mattered, anyway. Because they would save Shadow. Together. Right here, right now. No matter what Halcyon thought the odds were--Sonic would beat them like he always did.

Squeezing his hands into fists to hide their slight tremor, Sonic turned to the group and said, "Let's whack some weeds!"

The forest shuddered. Prim yelped as the ground seemed to shift beneath her feet. Windthrow and Whirley growled as the vines trembled, their hackles raised in warning. Gnarly looked like he wanted to bolt, but realized he'd probably be safer with the group than on his own, so he stayed where he was. Thorn Rose, Halcyon, and Sonic shared a look.

It must be him.

It must be Shadow.

A moment later, they were proven right. In the middle of the clearing in front of them, vines slithered apart like waves of snakes to reveal a dark form wrapped in flowers and thorns: Shadow. Or, what was once Shadow. His mind had been overwhelmed by the combined might of a billion plants--the Megaflora, as Halcyon had called them. The result of Gerald Robotnik's research. They were plants mixed with Black Arms DNA, and they were hellbent on planetary conquest.

Shadow opened his eyes, but Sonic knew it wasn't really him in control. The dark hedgehog locked eyes with his rival. "Earthling," he cooed. "You have returned to us."

Sonic wanted to jump into action right then and there, but his hastiness was what had gotten them in this mess in the first place, so he forced himself to act cool. "Yeah," he said casually. "What can I say? I just couldn't stay away."

Without looking away from Sonic, Shadow said, "You brought the others."

Sonic was surprised to hear disdain in Shadow's voice. So, the plants had finally gotten the hang of emoting, huh? Well, it didn't make them any less creepy. With a wave of his hand, Sonic replied, "Don't mind them. This is about you and me."

The vines squeezed tighter around Shadow. Sonic could see the thorns dig into his fur, drawing blood. Sonic had to keep talking in order to stop himself from abandoning his plan. "I get it," he said, a little tightly. "You missed me. I'd miss me too. Thing is, I did some thinking while I was gone..."

Shadow didn't move. Didn't blink. He just stared at Sonic, listening.

It seemed as though the whole world had gone quiet. Maybe it had.

"...And, well," Sonic continued, "I changed my mind."

Finally, Shadow reacted. He leaned forward, his body moving like a puppet on strings. "Is that so?"

Sonic stepped forward. Not too fast, not too slow. Deliberately. Shadow--but really, the Megaflora--tracked his every move. Good. That was what he wanted. "Uh-huh," Sonic said. He folded his hands behind his head calmly. Then, with a lopsided smile, he added, "I wanna stay here with you."

At last, Shadow left the center of the clearing. The Megaflora had gotten better at moving his body since the last time Sonic was here, but "better" was relative, and plants were never meant to walk in the first place, so was it really any surprise that now that they could, they did so with stuttering, jerky steps?

As Sonic watched Shadow come closer, his stomach twisted uncomfortably. But he kept his eyes on him. He didn't dare look away, especially not up and over the dark hedgehog's shoulder, where Thorn Rose and Halcyon now were. No, Sonic kept his eyes on Shadow just like he said he would. Because that was the plan.

When he was directly in front of Sonic, Shadow finally stopped his scary marionette-walk. Unfortunately, he did something even scarier next: he smiled.

"Do you take us for a fool, Earthling? These eyes are not the only ones that can see."

Thorn Rose gasped as eyeball-covered, alien vines suddenly shot up from the ground and grabbed her ankles.

"Loathsome vermin," Shadow said darkly. Then, he turned his attention back toward Sonic. Now, his voice was soft. Almost sad. "If only you could have seen... but no matter."

Vines anchored Sonic's feet in place as Shadow wrapped his hands around the blue hedgehog's throat.

"Your corpse will make fine company!"

Suddenly, Halcyon shouted, "Now!"

Windthrow tackled Shadow, and his superior size sent them both tumbling to the ground in a flurry of fur and foliage. Sonic, meanwhile, instinctively touched his throat. Oh, yeah. That was going to hurt later. But there was no time for that now--he shook his shoes free from the vines before Shadow could get back up.

Everyone was on the move. While Windthrow was wrestling with Shadow, the scavengers had taken to beating back the plants attempting to stop Halcyon and Thorn Rose from cracking open the cage of vines in the heart of the forest. Halcyon had transformed his jelly arm into a saw, while Thorn Rose used her hammer to block the vines from growing back. Soon, Halcyon was able to break through to the core, and from it he pulled out the glowing Green Prism Shard.

Shadow shoved Windthrow off of him. "No!" he roared, and it was like all the plants in the world did too.

But it was too late.

Halcyon threw the Shard. At the height of the chaos, it seemed as though time slowed down. Sonic watched as the Shard began to arc through the air before reluctantly tearing his gaze away from it. He turned instead toward Shadow. Using his super speed, Sonic snatched Shadow's wrist, hauled him up, and then with his free hand, he took the one chance Halcyon had given him.

And he didn't miss.

Sonic's fingertip connected with the Shard.

A brilliant flash of light filled the forest.

When it cleared, Sonic and Shadow were gone. But the sounds of the wailing Megaflora seemed to follow them through the Void, their agonized screaming licking at Sonic's heels, lamenting, "We almost had you!"

But Sonic didn't believe in "almosts". He kept a tight grip on Shadow as the two of them careened through the Void. It was the bright blue gate of No Place that swallowed them up, and after the suffocating green of the Boscage, Sonic welcomed it.

The portal spat them out in the sky, which was frankly quite rude of it. Sonic blinked, realized the two of them were now falling down instead of horizontally, and brought Shadow--who hadn't moved since he'd touched the Shard--into his arms. With any luck, they'd land on the same small island Sonic had discovered the first time he'd come to No Place.

It felt like they fell for a long time, but it was probably only 10 seconds. Sonic's spines hit the sand first, and it knocked the wind out of him, but not in a "linebacker just punted me across a football field" kind of way. It was more like a "shopping cart just hit me unexpectedly" way. In other words, because Sonic was tough, all he really did was let out a quiet oof.

"As far as landings go," Sonic said, "I'm gonna have to give that one a 4 out of 10. Forget about style points--we're totally beached!"

Shadow didn't respond. In fact, he still hadn't moved at all.

Sonic sat up, pulling Shadow up with him. Shadow's eyes were open, but they were glassy and unfocused, staring at nothing. Frowning, Sonic said, "Hellooo? Earth to Shadow?"

When Shadow still didn't respond, Sonic's grin faded. The blue hedgehog's nose twitched before he bent his head down, pressing one ear against the Ultimate Lifeform's chest, listening for a heartbeat--which he heard immediately. "Geez, Shadow," Sonic said after lifting his head back up. "You really had me going for a second there, bud. Trying to ruin my awesome rescue by..."

Sonic trailed off. He didn't want to admit it, but he was starting to get a little nervous, and he didn't feel like making jokes anymore. He just wanted Shadow to say something--anything. Because the longer he kept quiet, the more time Sonic had to think about why that might be.

Could his rescue have actually ended in disaster? Sure, he'd saved Shadow's body, but what about his mind? Was it still trapped in Boscage with those awful weeds?

Shadow blinked.

Sonic snapped out of his thoughts. In a small voice, Sonic asked, "Shadow...?"

Slowly, so slowly they would give molasses a run for its money, Shadow's eyes moved from staring straight ahead at nothing to looking up and over at Sonic.

"...Sonic."

Sonic's face lit up with a dazzling grin. He pulled Shadow into a hug, pressing his cheek against Shadow's in a way he knew was annoying and that Shadow would hate. Except, Shadow didn't push him away. Unlike the last time he did this in the Void, Shadow stayed still and let Sonic hug him.

For a brief second, Sonic worried that he had just imagined Shadow talking, and he was actually still catatonic. But thankfully, Shadow said something else, although his voice was a little muffled by Sonic's quills.

"I'm... free?"

Sonic pulled back so he could see Shadow's face. The dark hedgehog was looking down, his normally unreadable expression clouded with confusion and... something else. He still didn't move other than to breathe, almost as though he was afraid to do so.

For the first time, Sonic let go of Shadow. With his typical cocky attitude, he flashed his rival a thumbs up. "Yup!"

Shadow's expression grew more extreme. His hands shook as they reached out to grab Sonic, and in that moment Sonic realized what else was shining in Shadow's eyes: fear.

Sonic let Shadow pull him into an embrace. "Whoa, hey," Sonic said. "It's alright! Those weeds won't be bothering you anymore, Shadow. Promise."

Sonic felt Shadow's grip around him tighten. Then, Sonic realized with growing horror that his shoulder was getting wet. Wet from tears he couldn't see. He thought about how time flowed differently between the Shatterspaces, and how while he had only been separated from Shadow for a few days, Shadow had been alone with the Megaflora for much, much longer.

Sonic squeezed his eyes shut. However, he quickly set his jaw. The guilt could wait in line with his feelings about breaking the universe. He had something more important to deal with right now: Shadow.

"Sorry I was late," Sonic said quietly. "Didn't mean to make you wait, Shadow."

Shadow didn't reply, but Sonic could feel him press his face into his shoulder. So, Sonic asked, "Not up for small talk, eh?" Because he already knew he wouldn't get an answer, he continued, "That's fine. I got you."

Sonic watched the waves lap against the shore while Shadow cried. He didn't say anything else. There was nothing more to say. It was hard not to think about how he'd almost lost him, how Sonic was almost alone with nothing but the pieces of their broken world to pick up on his own, but Sonic didn't do "almosts". He just sat in the sand and rubbed his thumbs gently against Shadow's back.

Eventually, Shadow grew still. Sonic didn't want to move him, but when he didn't respond to his prodding, he did it anyway and found that he'd fallen asleep. Sonic could've said something about how they didn't have time for power naps, they had a world to save and a multi-verse to fix, but he didn't. The truth was, he was tired too. He hadn't slept since...

Uh...

Well, he wasn't sure how long it'd been. But if Mr. Ultimate Lifeform was tired enough to sleep, then he got a free pass for a nap too. That's how it worked, right? Come to think of it, did the Megaflora even need to sleep? They were plants, so probably not. But that would mean...

Sonic looked at the bags under Shadow's eyes and winced.

Without a word, Sonic laid Shadow down in the sand. Then, Sonic laid down too. The sun was setting on the horizon, and the first stars of nighttime were becoming visible in No Place's sky. Sonic thought that they looked identical to the stars he saw in Green Hill, but quickly stopped thinking it when his heart squeezed painfully.

Wait in line with the rest, thanks.

Eventually, the steady sound of the ocean foam lulled Sonic to sleep. Now, was it a good night's sleep? Was it free of awful dreams and fitful rolling? As a matter of fact, yeah, it was. He must've been exhausted because he slept like a rock despite all the baggage weighing him down.

In fact, when the stars faded and the pink-orange sun began to drift over the horizon, it was Shadow who woke up first.

Though, it was hard to tell, because he didn't open his eyes. For several horrible, horrible seconds, he didn't remember the events of last night, and he thought he was back in Boscage Maze. So, he waited. He waited for the Megaflora to tell him what to do, as they had been doing for the past month and a half. But their instructions never came. It was quiet inside of his mind, their raucous hissing absent.

He remembered what Sonic had said.

You're free.

Shadow opened his eyes. He was greeted by the beautiful blue ocean of No Place, so much nicer than the suffocating green of his old prison. After sitting up, he turned his head, and saw Sonic asleep next to him.

A cavalcade of unwanted thoughts rose to the forefront of his mind. All things that the Megaflora had wanted--had told him that he wanted--had forced him to want. Conquer the planet, kill the scavengers, save the Earthling.

But as it turned out, the "Earthling" had saved him.

Shadow swallowed thickly. It was difficult to put those thoughts out of his mind, to remember what was his and what was theirs. For what felt like an eternity, there was no difference. It was simply them. Theirs. We. Us.

Sonic's ear flicked in his sleep. Shadow stared at it.

"I'm Shadow the Hedgehog," he said to no one in particular. "I'm the Ultimate Lifeform."

A soft sea breeze blew across the tiny island. Sonic stirred. He cracked an eye open, then grinned. "’I'm the Ultimate Lifeform’," he said in his best Shadow impression.

Shadow scowled. He looked away from Sonic and out at the endless ocean. "Hmph."

"Back to your old self, huh? Good. I was starting to think I'd need to find a new rival!"

"I don't know what you're talking about," Shadow lied.

Sonic sat up. "Aw, c'mon, Shad," he teased. "We're not doing the forgetting-important-events thing again. Once was more than enough! Besides," Sonic leaned in close to Shadow, "it's a lot more fun when you play along."

"This isn't a game, Sonic!" Shadow snapped.

"C'mon, dude. You're back. I'm feelin' good. What's wrong with a little--"

Shadow interrupted, "You still don't get it. We-- I--..." Shadow said again, putting heavy emphasis on that first word, "I saw things. All of their memories. These aren't just facsimiles of your friends; these are whole worlds you've created with your mistake."

Sonic grew quiet. After a moment, he asked, "So they're real now, huh?"

Shadow glared at Sonic. But then, all the anger drained from his face. He just looked tired. "The accursed Megaflora has been around for longer than my Project. I witnessed its conception and subsequent failure. It... is real. And the suffering it’s inflicted on Boscage Maze can't be denied."

Shaking his head, Sonic said, "Yeah, well, that's what they made you for."

Shadow tensed. But Sonic waved his hand and said apologetically, "Halcyon, I mean. The other, uh... you. He's supposed to fix it." Sonic cleared his throat awkwardly. "Now that you're outta there, those weeds won't last long. Don't sweat it!"

Shadow pinched the bridge of his nose. "Sonic, you..." He was aggravated. "No, I made things worse. They probed my mind. They have my intelligence. I couldn't... there was nothing I could do to stop them. They kept pushing until I..."

Broke.

"...It's okay, Shadow. Really."

"How can you say that?" Shadow was shouting now. "How can you possibly... understand?"

"I don't," Sonic admitted. Then, he patted Shadow's arm. "But I know you. And even a faker like Halcyon has gotta have some of you in him. And I know you don't take the easy way. You don't quit. So, it'll be okay. Cuz I trust you."

Shadow laughed bitterly. "You're still the same idiot," he said.

"Maybe," Sonic said with a shrug. "But I got you back. Right?"

Shadow's mouth went dry. He remembered--both through his own two eyes and the thousand eyes of the Megaflora--seeing Sonic fight against the immense might of the Boscage Black Arms. He conceded, "You did."

Sonic's mouth quirked up in a small smile. "And why's that?"

Frowning, Shadow searched Sonic's eyes for a hint of what the answer might be, but he couldn't figure it out.

Sonic didn't look away. "It's cuz I need you. I'm big enough to admit that."

The thought of having to fix the world all on his own was almost too much for Sonic to bear. He'd been faced with that awful reality while separated from Shadow, while Shadow had been suffering under the Megaflora's control. Thankfully, Sonic didn't have to see the reality of that "almost".

Sonic held out his hand to Shadow. "Let's fix this, Shadow. Together."

Shadow looked at Sonic's hand for a long moment. In the end, he took it and said, "Together."