#Using Marine Products as Fertilizer

[falseandrealultravival]

Using Marine Products as Fertilizer: The Crisis of Guano(chemistry-４)

guano(A kinda stone)

Seabird droppings deposited on the coasts and islands of tropical arid regions are rich in nitrogen and phosphoric acid and are effective fertilizers. In the 19th century, guano began to be used in large quantities in Europe as a fertilizer. Initially, it was imported from the northwestern coast of the African continent. There are many seabirds that feed on it, and guano deposits that reach several tens of meters along the coast and islands have become known for their high quality and abundance. , began to be exported to Europe. (also known as guano)

War broke out over guano (Chile VS Bolivia), and the United States intervened (Guano Island Act), and you can see the importance of guano as a commodity.

A remarkable feature of this guano is that the seabirds that ate the sea fish concentrated the beneficial minerals in the seawater and dropped them on land. Leaving it aside, I believe that guano was the essence of how birds acted as a pump to drop minerals from seawater that did not reach land onto land. Thanks to their work, material circulation between the sea and the land was carried out. Phosphorus is a constituent element of ATP, which controls energy metabolism, and DNA, which is a gene. Phosphorus is one of the important pillars of life activities.

"Then, until now, humans have not produced phosphorus, even if they have consumed phosphate rock."

"Then what do you think?" Instead of phosphate rock, which is about to be depleted, plucking seaweed and fish from the sea and plowing them into the fields. A mineral rich fertilizer. In fact, there are people who live by the seaside who bring seaweed with them and practice such practices, and small fish in the sea (especially sesame sardines) were also called 'Tazukuri'. Humans, in turn, should be the “mineral pumps”. It's even better if you eat seafood and then use the waste produced. Since the modern era, humans have been wasting too much nitrogen and phosphorus due to the spread of sewage systems.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Paying for it doesn't make it a market

I'm touring my new, nationally bestselling novel The Bezzle! Catch me SATURDAY (Apr 27) in MARIN COUNTY, then Winnipeg (May 2), Calgary (May 3), Vancouver (May 4), and beyond!

Anyone who says "If you're not paying for the product, you're the product" has been suckered in by Big Tech, whose cargo-cult version of markets and the discipline they impose on companies.

Here's the way that story goes: companies that fear losing your business will treat you better, because treating you worse will cost them money. Since ad-supported media gets paid by advertisers, they are fine with abusing you to make advertisers happy, because the advertiser is the customer, and you are the product.

This represents a profound misunderstanding of how even capitalism's champions describe its workings. The purported virtue of capitalism is that it transforms the capitalist's greed into something of broad public value, by appealing to the capitalist's fear. A successful capitalist isn't merely someone figures out how to please their customers – they're also someone who figures out how to please their suppliers.

That's why tech platforms were – until recently – very good to (some of) their workforce. Technical labor was scarce and so platforms built whimsical "campuses" for tech workers, with amenities ranging from stock options to gourmet cafeterias to egg-freezing services for those workers planning to stay at their desks through their fertile years. Those workers weren't the "customer" – but they were treated better than any advertiser or user.

But when it came to easily replaced labor – testers, cleaning crew, the staff in those fancy cafeterias – the situation was much worse. Those workers were hired through cut-out shell companies, denied benefits, even made to enter via separate entrances on shifts that were scheduled to minimize the chance that they would ever interact with one of the highly paid tech workers at the firm.

Likewise, advertisers may be the tech companies' "customers" but that doesn't mean the platforms treat them well. Advertisers get ripped off just like the rest of us. The platforms gouge them on price, lie to them about advertising reach, and collude with one another to fix prices and defraud advertisers:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/10/05/florida-man/#wannamakers-ghost

Now, it's true that the advertisers used to get a good deal from the platforms, and that it came at the expense of the users. Facebook lured in users by falsely promising never to spy on them. Then, once the users were locked in, Facebook flipped a switch, started spying on users from asshole to appetite, and then offered rock-bottom-priced, fine-grained, highly reliable ad-targeting to advertisers:

https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3247362

But once those advertisers were locked in, Facebook turned on them, too. Of course they did. The point of monopoly power isn't just getting too big to fail and too big to jail – it's getting too big to care:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/04/teach-me-how-to-shruggie/#kagi

This is the thing that "if you're not paying for the product, you're the product" fails to comprehend. "If you're not paying for the product" is grounded in a cartoonish vision of markets in which "the customer is king" and successful businesses are those who cater to their customers – even at the expense of their workers and suppliers – will succeed.

In this frame, the advertiser is the platforms' customer, the customer is king, the platform inflicts unlimited harm upon all other stakeholders in service to those advertisers, the advertisers are so pleased with this white-glove service that they willingly pay a handsome premium to use the platform, and so the platform grows unimaginably wealthy.

But of course, if the platforms inflict unlimited harms upon their users, those users will depart, and then no amount of obsequious catering to advertisers will convince them to spend money on ads that no one sees. In the cargo-cult conception of platform capitalism, the platforms are able to solve this problem by "hacking our dopamine loops" – depriving us of our free will with "addictive" technologies that keep us locked to their platforms even when they grow so terrible that we all hate using them.

This means that we can divide the platform economy into "capitalists" who sell you things, and "surveillance capitalists" who use surveillance data to control your mind, then sell your compulsive use of their products to their cherished customers, the advertisers.

Surveillance capitalists like Google are thus said to have only been shamming when they offered us a high-quality product. That was just a means to an end: the good service Google offered in its golden age was just bait to trick us into handing over enough surveillance data that they could tune their mind-control technology, strip us of our free will, and then sell us to their beloved advertisers, for whom nothing is too good.

Meanwhile, the traditional capitalists – the companies that sell you things – are the good capitalists. Apple and Microsoft are disciplined by market dynamics. They won't spy on you because you're their customer, and so they have to keep you happy.

All this leads to an inexorable conclusion: unless we pay for things with money, we are doomed. Any attempt to pay with attention will end in a free-for-all where the platforms use their Big Data mind-control rays to drain us of all our attention. It is only when we pay with money that we can dicker over price and arrive at a fair and freely chosen offer.

This theory is great for tech companies: it elevates giving them money to a democracy-preserving virtue. It reframes handing your cash over to a multi-trillion dollar tech monopolist as good civics. It's easy to see why those tech giants would like that story, but boy, are you a sap if you buy it.

Because all capitalists are surveillance capitalists…when they can get away with it. Sure, Apple blocked Facebook from spying on Ios users…and then started illegally, secretly spying on those users and lying about it, in order to target ads to those users:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/14/luxury-surveillance/#liar-liar

And Microsoft spies on every Office 365 user and rats them out to their bosses ("Marge, this analytics dashboard says you're the division's eleventh-worst speller and twelfth-worst typist. Shape up or ship out!"). But the joke's on your boss: Microsoft also spies on your whole company and sells the data about it to your competitors:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/11/25/the-peoples-amazon/#clippys-revengel

The platforms screw anyone they can. Sure, they lured in advertisers with good treatment, but once those advertisers were locked in, they fucked them over just as surely as they fucked over their users.

The surveillance capitalism hypothesis depends on the existence of a hypothetical – and wildly improbably – Big Data mind-control technology that keeps users locked to platforms even when the platform decays. Mind-control rays are an extraordinary claim supported by the thinnest of evidence (marketing materials from the companies as they seek to justify charging a premium to advertisers, combined with the self-serving humblebrags of millionaire Prodigal Tech Bros who claim to have awakened to the evil of using their dopamine-hacking sorcerous powers on behalf of their billionaire employers).

There is a much simpler explanation for why users stay on platforms even as they decline in quality: they are enmeshed in a social service that encompasses their friends, loved ones, customers, and communities. Even if everyone in this sprawling set of interlocking communities agrees that the platform is terrible, they will struggle to agree on what to do about it: where to go next and when to leave. This is the economists' "collective action problem" – a phenomenon with a much better evidentiary basis than the hypothetical, far-fetched "dopamine loop" theory.

To understand whom a platform treats well and whom it abuses, look not to who pays it and who doesn't. Instead, ask yourself: who has the platform managed to lock in? The more any stakeholder to a platform stands to lose by leaving, the worse the platform can treat them without risking their departure. Thus the beneficent face that tech companies turn to their most cherished tech workers, and the hierarchy of progressively more-abusive conditions for other workers – worse treatment for those whose work-visas are tied to their employment, and the very worst treatment for contractors testing the code, writing the documentation, labelling the data or cleaning the toilets.

If you care about how people are treated by platforms, you can't just tell them to pay for services instead of using ad-supported media. The most important factor in getting decent treatment out of a tech company isn't whether you pay with cash instead of attention – it's whether you're locked in, and thus a flight risk whom the platform must cater to.

It's perfectly possible for market dynamics to play out in a system in which we pay with our attention by watching ads. More than 50% of all web users have installed an ad-blocker, the largest boycott in the history of civilization:

https://doc.searls.com/2023/11/11/how-is-the-worlds-biggest-boycott-doing/

Ad-supported companies make an offer: How about in exchange for looking at this content, you let us spy on you in ways that would make Orwell blush and then cram a torrent of targeted ads into your eyeballs?" Ad-blockers let you make a counter-offer: "How about 'nah'?"

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2019/07/adblocking-how-about-nah

But ad-blocking is only possible on an open platform. A closed, locked-down platform that is illegal to modify isn't a walled garden, a fortress that keeps out the bad guys – it's a walled prison that locks you in, a prisoner of the worst impulses of the tech giant that built it. Apple can defend you from other companies' spying ways, but when Apple decides to spy on you, it's a felony to jailbreak your Iphone and block Apple's surveillance:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/05/battery-vampire/#drained

I am no true believer in markets – but the people who say that paying for products will "align incentives" and make tech better claim to believe in the power of markets to make everyone better off. But real markets aren't just places where companies sell things – they're also places where companies buy things. Monopolies short-circuit the power of customer choice to force companies to do better. But monopsonies – markets dominated by powerful buyers – are just as poisonous to the claimed benefits of markets.

Even if you are "the product" – that is, even if you're selling your attention to a platform to package up and sell to an advertiser – that in no way precludes your getting decent treatment from the platform. A world where we can avail ourselves of blockers, where interoperablity eases our exodus from abusive platforms, where privacy law sets a floor below which we cannot bargain is a world where it doesn't matter if you're "the product" or "the customer" – you can still get a square deal.

The platforms used to treat us well and now treat us badly. That's not because they were setting a patient trap, luring us in with good treatment in the expectation of locking us in and turning on us. Tech bosses do not have the executive function to lie in wait for years and years.

Rather, as tech platforms eliminated competition, captured their regulators and expanded their IP rights so that interoperability was no longer a threat, they became too big to care whether any of their stakeholders were happy. First they came for the users, sure, but then they turned on the publishers, the advertisers, and finally, even their once-pampered tech workers:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/10/the-proletarianization-of-tech-workers/

MLK said that "the law can't make a man love me, but it can stop him from lynching me." It's impossible to get tech bosses to believe you deserve care and decency, but you can stop them from abusing you. The way to do that is by making them fear you – by abolishing the laws that create lock-in, by legally enshrining a right to privacy, by protecting competition.

It's not by giving them money. Paying for a service does not make a company fear you, and anyone who thinks they can buy a platform's loyalty by paying for a service is a simp. A corporation is an immortal, transhuman colony organism that uses us as inconvenient gut-flora: no matter how much you love it, it will never love you back. It can't experience love – only fear.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/22/kargo-kult-kaptialism/#dont-buy-it

[theambitiouswoman]

Hormone disrupters are chemicals 🧪 that interfere with your body’s endocrine system, which regulates hormones. They can be found in a lot of every day products like:

Plastic bottles and food containers

Pesticides in agriculture

Cleaning supplies

Chemicals used for clothing

Personal care products like lotions, shampoos & makeup

❌ These are hormone disrupters found in common every day products that you should stay away from ❌

- Bisphenol A (BPA) (plastics and can liners)

- Phthalates (personal care products, fragrances, flexible plastics)

- Parabens (makeup & personal care products)

- Triclosan (antibacterial soaps and cleaning products)

- Polychlorinated Biphenyls (older electrical equipment and industrial products)

- Flame Retardants (furniture, textiles, electronics)

- Pesticides (agriculture)

- Perfluorinated Chemicals (stain resistant treatments, non-stick cookware)

- Dioxins (industrial processes, combustion byproducts)

- Lead (older paints, pipes)

- Dye chemicals (textiles and clothing)

- Water repellents (outdoor clothing, upholstery)

- Stain repellents (carpets, fabrics)

- Formaldehyde (wrinkle free and anti-shrink treatments for fabric)

- Mercury (fish, some thermometers, dental amalgams)

- Cadmium (batteries, some fertilizers)

- Atrazine (herbicides)

- Glyphosate (weed killers)

- Perchlorate (rocket fuel, fireworks, fertilizers)

- Arsenic (contaminated water, pesticides)

- Styrene (plastics, rubber, insulation materials)

- Phosphates (detergents, fertilizers)

- Nonylphenol ethoxylates (industrial detergents, cleaners)

- Organotins (PVC plastics, marine antifouling paints)

- Benzophenone (sunscreens, plastics)

- Octinoxate (sunscreens, makeup)

- 4 Methylbenzylidene camphor (sunscreens, makeup)

‼️ Exposure to these can lead to health issues like reproductive problems, developmental issues and cancer.

🌿 Needless to say, that in order to protect our hormones 🫶 it’s important to recognize these risks and take measures to reduce our exposure them.

[mariacallous]

Imitation caviar invented in the 1930s could provide the solution to plastic pollution, claims Pierre Paslier, CEO of London-based packaging company Notpla. He discovered the cheap food alternative, invented by Unilever and made using seaweed, after quitting his job as a packaging engineer at L’Oréal.

With cofounder and co-CEO Rodrigo García González, Paslier and Notpla have extended the idea, taking a protein made from seaweed and creating packaging for soft drinks, fast food, laundry detergent, and cosmetics, among other things. They���re also branching out into cutlery and paper.

“Seaweed grows quickly and needs no fresh water, land, or fertilizer,” Paslier explains. “It captures carbon and makes the surrounding waters less acidic. Some species of seaweed can grow up to a meter a day.” Best of all, he says, packaging made from seaweed is completely biodegradable because it’s entirely nature-based.

Paslier noted an amazing coincidence—Alexander Parkes invented the first plastic in Hackney Wick, the same part of East London that, 100 years later, Notpla calls home. Since Parkes’ first invention, waste plastic—especially tiny particles known as microplastics, which take hundreds or thousands of years to break down into harmless molecules—has been wreaking havoc in ecosystems across the world.

Plastic pollution is proving especially damaging in the marine environment, where tiny beads of plastic are deadly to the vital microorganisms that make up plankton and which sequester 30 percent of our carbon emissions, “without us having to build any new fancy technologies,” Paslier says.

Notpla’s plans to replace plastic began with a drink container for marathons. This is, in effect, a very large piece of fake caviar—a small pouch that contains juice or water that athletes can pop in their mouths and swallow when they need rehydration. “We wanted to create something that would feel more like fruit; packaging that you could feel comes more from picking something from a tree than off a production line,” he says.

Paslier showed pictures of two postrace streets—one where refueling came in plastic containers and one where it came in edible Notpla. The first was littered with plastic bottles; the second completely waste-free.

The next step was takeout food containers. Even containers we think are cardboard contain plastic, he says, as grease from food would make plain cardboard too soggy. Working with delivery company Just Eat, Notpla has pioneered a replacement for the per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS), the so-called “forever chemical” plastics that currently line cardboard takeout containers. It has even found a way to retrofit its solution into the old PFAS plant, so there was no need to build new factories.

The company is developing soluble sachets for detergent pods, ice-cream scoops, and even paper packing for cosmetics. And there’s plenty of seaweed to experiment with, Paslier points out. “You don’t realize it’s already available massively at scale,” he says. “It’s in our toothpaste, it’s in our beer, it’s in our reduced-fat products—so there’s an existing infrastructure that we can work with without having to build any additional processes.”

[broomsick]

Personal ideas for simple devotional acts to Njörðr

Let us all praise the Lord of Ships, the Vanir King. He is the bestower of wealth and the guardian of seas, and his gifts are many! If you’re looking to start working with Njörðr, or worshipping him, these ideas make for quick and simple gestures that showcase your interest. They’re also perfect for a pagan who already maintains a close relationship with the sea, water spirits, or a sea deity. After all, spiritual practice gets hard to sustain when you’re working on a tight schedule! Which is why I hope these little personal ideas can inspire even those of you who already actively worship/work with Njörðr. 

First things first: pondering on what Njörðr stands for, what you think he can bring your life and what you think he would appreciate in return. 

Going for walks on windy days. Njörðr is said to raise winds that are favorable to sailboats! 

Cooking and eating sea products, especially if you can find them fresh! I usually keep an eye out for fishermen’s markets. It’s a good idea to buy locally if the opportunity presents itself. The most important thing is to make sure you’re buying from sustainable fish farming companies, especially if you’re at a restaurant or buying from a grocery store.

Putting the sound of waves as background music before sleep. You can visualize the sea, or the ocean, and use this image to connect with Njörðr either by simply meditating on him and his gifts, or even by praying to him.

If possible, spending time near bodies of water: water is a network which connects the land to the ocean. In the end, all rivers, no matter how small, are bound to the ocean. 

Watching documentaries on the sea, or on marine life! The simple gesture of learning about his domain, developing your understanding of it, can make you feel that much closer to the Father of Light-Bringers. 

Whenever you’re at a local beach, collecting seashells or rocks which catch your eye! They’re a way to bring a piece of the sea home with you! 

Since I cook a lot, there’s this little habit I’ve come to develop, of adding a pinch of sea salt (or fleur de sel) to every recipe. Of course, I won’t do this if I’m cooking a simple sandwich for myself: I’m talking about large pots of soup, meat pies, stews, etc. It’s a way of reminding myself that the Vanir bring about the fertility which allows us sustain ourselves. 

Learning sea shanties!!! Did you smile? That’s because sea shanties are fun, and what better way to honor a God than by having fun in their name! One of my favorite songs ever is a folk ballad about an old woman who begs her husband to leave the city and go back to the island where they used to live, where she could watch the seagulls and where he would fish their dinner. Songs such as these can make for beautiful and deeply personal offerings. Once you’ve learned a fisherman’s song, you’ll find yourself humming it in your day-to-day, and thinking of Njörðr as you’re doing so.

Making offerings of coin to him. I’ve heard that he was particularly fond of the coin-shaped chocolates that are wrapped in gold foil! Generally, anything that is made of gold or silver makes for a beautiful offering to him. You can, of course, keep such objects after offering them! The act of sharing them with Njörðr is symbolic, as are many offerings, and you are as entitled to keeping these valuables as you are to drinking offering alcohol after the ritual is done. Placing your silver/gold object on a windowsill or an altar for a day, a week or a month is enough to act as an offering.  

When it comes to the Vanir, you usually can’t go wrong with buying local products! What does your area specialize in, in terms of food? Now that summer’s at our door, we’ve reached the perfect time to look into local farmer’s markets. If, like me, you’re in the habit of offering alcohol to some or most of your deities, local draft beer is a great idea for Njörðr. In my area, grocery shops sometimes sell this one beer that’s made using salt water! It’s my go-to for Njörðr, understandably.

Acting generously, taking opportunities to share with others! It’s a way of honoring and embodying the Vanir King’s own benevolence.

As a follow-up, working on your ability to be compassionate: putting yourself in somebody else’s shoes, forgiving a wrong that has been done to you, finding compromise during a conflict with loved ones... If you are put in a position of leadership, lead others with care and attentiveness. Njörðr’s mythological son Freyr is heavily associated with peace. By protecting peace, you are honoring them both. 

Keeping a symbol of his on you as an amulet: representations of fish, anchors, lighthouses, ships, or anything else that symbolizes the sea all make for beautiful reminders of Njörðr’s presence. Especially if they are silver or gold-colored! In fact, a simple silver or gold coin, or even just a coin with special meaning in your heart, is the perfect amulet to keep in your wallet/purse in his honor. 

Learning to tie knots, or any other simple skill that is useful on a boat is fun and a great way to feel connected with the sea. This goes without saying but if you’ve got the chance to go for a boat ride, take it in his honor!

Asking him to grant you a safe journey before traveling long distances.

Art, Njörðr statue

[dailyanarchistposts]

Chapter 4. Environment

The only way to save the planet

When it comes to protecting the environment, nearly any social system would be better than the one we have now. Capitalism is the first social arrangement in human history to endanger the survival of our species and life on earth in general. Capitalism provides incentives to exploit and destroy nature, and creates an atomized society that is incapable of protecting the environment. Under capitalism, ecocide is literally a right. Environmental protections are “trade barriers”; preventing a corporation from clear-cutting land it has purchased is a violation of private property and free enterprise. Companies are allowed to make millions of tons of plastic, most of it for throwaway packaging, despite the fact that they have no plan for disposing of it and not even any idea what will happen with it all; plastic does not decompose, so plastic trash is filling up the ocean and appearing in the bodies of marine creatures, and it may last millions of years. To save endangered rhinoceros from poachers, game wardens have started sawing off their valuable horns; but the poachers are killing them anyway because once they are extinct, the value of the few remaining bits of rhinoceros ivory will go through the roof.

And despite all this, universities have the audacity to indoctrinate students to believe that a communal society would be incapable of protecting the environment because of the so-called tragedy of the commons. This myth is often explained thus: imagine a society of sheepherders owns the grazing land in common. They benefit collectively if each grazes a smaller number of sheep, because the pasture stays fertile, but any one of them benefits individually if he overgrazes, because he will receive a greater share of the product — thus collective ownership supposedly leads to depletion of resources. The historical examples intended to corroborate this theory are generally drawn from colonial and postcolonial situations in which oppressed people, whose traditional forms of organization and stewardship have been undermined, are crowded onto marginal land, with predictable results. The sheepherding scenario assumes a situation that is extremely rare in human history: a collective comprised of atomized, competitive individuals who value personal wealth over social bonds and ecological health, and lack social arrangements or traditions that can guarantee sustainable, shared use.

Capitalism has already caused the biggest wave of extinctions to hit the planet since an asteroid collision killed off the dinosaurs. To prevent global climate change from bringing about total ecological collapse, and stop pollution and overpopulation from killing off most of the planet’s mammals, birds, amphibians, and marine life, we have to abolish capitalism, hopefully within the next few decades. Human-caused extinctions have been apparent for at least a hundred years now. The greenhouse effect has been widely acknowledged for nearly two decades. The best that the reputed ingenuity of free enterprise has come up with is carbon trading, a ridiculous farce. Likewise, we cannot trust some world government to save the planet. A government’s first concern is always its own power, and it builds the base of this power upon economic relationships. The governing elite must maintain a privileged position, and that privilege depends on the exploitation of other people and of the environment.

Localized, egalitarian societies linked by global communication and awareness are the best chance for saving the environment. Self-sufficient, self-contained economies leave almost no carbon footprint. They don’t need petroleum to ship goods in and waste out, or huge amounts of electricity to power industrial complexes to produce goods for export. They must produce most of their energy themselves via solar, wind, biofuel, and similar technologies, and rely more on what can be done manually than on electrical appliances. Such societies pollute less because they have fewer incentives to mass production and lack the means to dump their byproducts on others’ land. In place of busy airports, traffic-clogged highways, and long commutes to work, we can imagine bicycles, buses, interregional trains, and sailboats. Likewise, populations will not spiral out of control, because women will be empowered to manage their fertility and the localized economy will make apparent the limited availability of resources.

An ecologically sustainable world would have to be anti-authoritarian, so no society could encroach on its neighbors to expand its resource base; and cooperative, so societies could band together in self-defense against a group developing imperialist tendencies. Most importantly, it would demand a common ecological ethos, so people would respect the environment rather than regarding it simply as raw material to exploit. We can begin building such a world now, by learning from ecologically sustainable indigenous societies, sabotaging and shaming polluters, spreading a love for nature and an awareness of our bioregions, and establishing projects that allow us to meet our needs for food, water, and energy locally.

[thecpdiary]

Biodiversity Loss Concerns

The diversity of life on Earth continues to face ongoing challenges and threats that include the ecosystems, species and genetic diversity that support the planet's balance. By understanding these issues, we can better appreciate what’s needed to protect and sustain our natural world.

Experts' Warning

Experts worldwide are increasingly warning us about the alarming rate of biodiversity loss and its cascading impacts on ecosystems, economies and human health. Biodiversity, the variety of life on Earth – including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms – is essential for ecosystem stability, agricultural productivity and the overall health of our planet. However, rapid habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and over-exploitation of natural resources are driving a sharp decline in biodiversity, prompting urgent calls for action from scientists and conservationists.

University of Surrey Research

New research from the University of Surrey highlights a significant disconnect between national biodiversity policies and the crucial behavioral changes needed at the individual and community levels to drive real progress. The study reveals that while many countries have policies aimed at conserving biodiversity, 90% of these policies do not outline specific actions for individuals or small groups to adjust their behaviour in ways that support conservation goals.

According to researchers, this oversight could be a critical factor in the continued shortfall in meeting global biodiversity targets. By bridging this gap, policies could more effectively mobilize citizens and communities, making conservation efforts more achievable and impactful at a grassroots level.

These concerns can be summarised as follows:

Key Points of Concern

Accelerating Extinction Rates

Species are currently going extinct at rates estimated to be 100 to 1,000 times higher than the natural background rate due to human activities. For instance, recent studies indicate that around 1 million species are at risk of extinction, some within the next few decades, if current trends continue. The loss of species can disrupt ecosystems, weaken food chains, and reduce nature’s resilience against climate extremes.

Ecosystem Services at Risk

Biodiversity is critical for the ecosystem services that humans rely on, including clean air and water, pollination of crops, soil fertility, and carbon storage. For example, bees and other pollinators, whose populations are declining, are essential for the pollination of about 75% of global food crops. The decline in biodiversity weakens ecosystems' ability to provide these services, posing risks to food security and the global economy.

Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss

Climate change amplifies biodiversity loss by altering habitats, weather patterns, and migration routes, which some species cannot adapt to quickly enough. For instance, coral reefs, home to 25% of marine species, are severely threatened by ocean warming and acidification. These reefs are in decline globally, and their loss would have enormous consequences for marine biodiversity and for communities reliant on fisheries and tourism.

Human Health Implications

Biodiversity loss is linked to an increased risk of zoonotic diseases—those that transfer from animals to humans. As habitats shrink and humans encroach further into wild areas, contact with wildlife increases, raising the risk of disease transmission, as seen with Covid-19. Additionally, the decline of species used in traditional medicine and the loss of genetic resources that contribute to medical research jeopardise human health advancements.

Biodiversity concerns refer to the various threats and challenges facing the variety of life on Earth, including the ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity that make up our planet.

These concerns can be summarised as follows:

Habitat Loss

Urbanisation, deforestation, agriculture, and infrastructure development lead to the destruction and fragmentation of natural habitats, endangering species that depend on them.

Climate Change

Alterations in temperature and weather patterns disrupt habitats and migration patterns, affecting species' survival and reproduction.

Pollution

Chemicals, plastic waste, and other pollutants degrade ecosystems, harm wildlife, and disrupt food chains.

Over-exploitation

Unsustainable hunting, fishing, and harvesting deplete populations of certain species, reducing biodiversity and disrupting ecosystems.

Agricultural Practices

Mono-cultures and industrial farming reduce genetic diversity in crops and livestock while increasing vulnerability to pests and diseases.

Soil Degradation

Loss of soil fertility and health impacts plant life and the entire food web.

Human Population Growth

Increasing human demand on resources leads to greater pressure on natural ecosystems.

Invasive Species

Non-native species can outcompete, prey on, or introduce diseases to native species, leading to declines or extinctions.

Economic Consequences

Economies, especially in developing nations, are highly dependent on biodiversity. The World Economic Forum has estimated that more than half of the world's GDP is moderately or highly dependent on nature and its services. This includes industries like agriculture, fishing, and forestry, which are already experiencing the effects of biodiversity loss. The degradation of these resources can lead to job losses, increased costs, and greater poverty in vulnerable regions.

Urgent Calls for Action

Experts emphasise the need for transformative changes to prevent further biodiversity loss, including:

Protection of Natural Habitats: Expanding protected areas, particularly in biodiversity hot-spots, and enforcing sustainable land-use policies are critical. Goals like the "30x30" initiative, which aims to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030, are gaining international support.

Sustainable Resource Management: Shifting towards sustainable farming, fishing, and forestry practices can help reduce pressure on ecosystems.

Climate Action: Integrating biodiversity conservation with climate action is essential, as these issues are closely linked. Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, restore natural carbon sinks (like forests and wetlands), and promote renewable energy can support both biodiversity and climate resilience.

Global Cooperation and Policy Change: International agreements, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and frameworks like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), provide a roadmap for global action. Strengthening these policies and ensuring accountability is vital for meeting biodiversity targets.

Conclusion: Public Awareness and Education

Raising awareness about biodiversity's importance and the impact of its loss is becoming even more crucial. Educating communities about sustainable practices and encouraging lifestyle changes can contribute significantly to conservation efforts. Biodiversity concerns refer to the various threats and challenges facing the variety of life on earth, including the ecosystems, species and genetic diversity that make up our planet. It is important to take it seriously and commit to it.

Addressing these biodiversity concerns continues to be crucial for maintaining ecosystem services, promoting resilience against environmental changes, and ensuring the wellbeing of future generations. Conservation efforts, sustainable practices and international cooperation are essential in mitigating these threats. (Source: physorg)

For more relatable, inspirational and lifestyle blogs, please check out my site https://www.thecpdiary.com

[lebaongoc09]

THE EARTH

Environmental pollution is one of the most serious problems facing humanity. It affects not only human health but also ecosystems and plants and fauna. The main cause of environmental pollution is mainly due to human activities. Some causes include:

1. **Industrial activities**: Production plants emit toxic gases, industrial wastewater and solid waste that pollute the air, water and soil.

2. **Transportation**: Vehicle emissions contain many pollutants such as CO2, NOx, and small dust particles that are harmful to human health and the environment.

3. **Agriculture**: The use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture contributes to water and soil pollution.

4. **Waste treatment**: Domestic waste and medical waste are not treated properly, polluting soil and water sources.

In addition, there are several other natural causes of environmental pollution:

1. **Volcanic activity**: When a volcano erupts, it emits a large amount of toxic gases, ash and lava, polluting the air and affecting the habitat.

2. **Sunlight**: Changes in the intensity and duration of sunlight can impact the climate, affecting ecosystems.

3. **Changes of the ocean**: Phenomenon such as climate change, ocean acidification and flow change can cause pollution of the marine environment, affecting marine life and ecosystems.

Stricter measures are needed to reduce pollution from human activities, and monitoring and research to minimize impacts from natural causes. Protecting the environment is everyone's responsibility, and each person needs to be aware of their role in preserving and protecting this planet.

[lanabriggs]

Tackling Ocean Pollution. A Global Imperative

Ocean pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, with devastating effects on marine ecosystems and human health. The accumulation of plastic waste, chemical runoff, and other pollutants in our oceans has reached alarming levels, necessitating immediate and sustained action.

Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste enter the oceans, harming marine life and disrupting ecosystems. Sea creatures ingest or become entangled in plastic debris, leading to injury and death. Additionally, pollutants such as oil, heavy metals, and agricultural runoff contribute to the degradation of marine environments.

Michael Shvartsman, a dedicated environmental advocate, emphasizes the urgency of addressing ocean pollution: “Our oceans are vital to the health of our planet. Protecting them is not just an environmental issue; it’s a matter of global survival. We must act now to reduce pollution and safeguard marine life.”

The primary sources of ocean pollution include:

Plastic Waste: Single-use plastics and discarded fishing gear are major contributors.

Chemical Runoff: Pesticides, fertilizers, and industrial chemicals wash into waterways, eventually reaching the oceans.

Oil Spills: Accidents and leaks from oil rigs and tankers release vast amounts of oil into the sea.

Marine Litter: Non-biodegradable waste, such as discarded fishing nets and packaging materials, persist in the marine environment for decades.

Addressing ocean pollution requires a multifaceted approach:

Reducing Plastic Use: Promoting the use of reusable products and reducing single-use plastics can significantly decrease waste.

Improving Waste Management: Enhancing recycling programs and waste disposal systems can prevent litter from reaching the oceans.

Legislative Action: Enforcing stricter regulations on pollutants and promoting international agreements to protect marine environments are essential steps.

Public Awareness: Educating the public about the impacts of ocean pollution and encouraging sustainable practices can drive change.

Michael Shvartsman advocates for collective action: “Solving ocean pollution requires collaboration between governments, businesses, and individuals. By working together, we can implement effective solutions and create a healthier future for our oceans.”

Technological advancements play a crucial role in tackling ocean pollution. Innovations in waste collection, such as ocean cleanup devices and biodegradable materials, offer promising solutions. Additionally, satellite monitoring and data analytics help track pollution sources and measure the effectiveness of interventions.

Ocean pollution is a critical issue that demands immediate attention and action. By reducing plastic use, improving waste management, enforcing regulations, and leveraging technology, we can mitigate the impacts of pollution on marine environments. As Michael Shvartsman highlights, protecting our oceans is essential for the well-being of our planet and future generations. Together, we can make a significant difference in preserving the health of our oceans and ensuring a sustainable future.

Learn more:

[greekingout2024]

Day 11 - May 27, 2024

Today we had the opportunity to visit an olive oil press in Olympia! Olive oil plays a large role in Greek culture, as they believe it was a gift from the goddess Athena. During our tour of the olive oil press our guide explained how the olive oil is made, how much olive oil is produced, and all of the uses that olive oil has in Greece. According to our guide approximately 100 Kilos of olive oil are used by a singular family per year. This is due to the fact that olive oil has so many uses here in Greece. This was very intriguing to me since olive oil is mostly used for cooking only in America. Olive oil is used for cooking, baking, cosmetics (lotions and body washes), and for health here in Greece. There are many health benefits to consuming olive oil, and Greek citizens often have a spoonful of olive oil every morning. Our guide explained that the oil is good for your skin, bones, heart, and digestive system as well. Olive oil plays such a big part in health, cosmetics, and food here in Greece, and I’m excited to bring this knowledge back to the United States with me to see how we use olive oil compared to Greeks. Aside from the actual oil produced, the olive paste also has an important use, showing that nothing goes to waste in this process. The paste and leaves from the olives are used for either fertilizer or as food for some farm animals. Since olive oil is in such high demand in Greece, the facility we visited uses around 4 tons of olives per hour, and uses a variety of 50 different olives. The harvesting season is from October to February and olive fields are passed down from generation to generation due to their significance to the Greek culture. We tried many different flavors of olive oil that are all paired with different types of food based on their flavor. Some olive oils are used to marinate meat, some are used in salad dressings, and some can be used for just dipping bread! This was such an awesome experience to see how olive oil is such a large part of Greek life on a daily basis, being that it is typically just a cooking ingredient in the states!! As someone who has intentions of working in the healthcare field, I really admired the way that Greeks use olive oil as a preventative health measure and as a much more natural approach compared to the synthetic medications used in America. This is due to the fact that Greek culture traditionally provides the belief that the goddess Athena gave them olive oil as a gift. Greek climate allows for an abundance of growth of olive trees, making it readily available for any kind of product they would need. 🫒🇬🇷

[harmonyhealinghub]

Preserving Our Blue Planet: Practical Ways to Save the Ocean

Shaina Tranquilino

November 18, 2023

The ocean, covering more than 70% of our planet's surface, is a vital ecosystem that provides us with numerous benefits. It regulates climate, absorbs carbon dioxide, and supports biodiversity. However, due to human activities, our oceans are facing unprecedented threats such as pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. To secure the future health of our blue planet, it is crucial for each one of us to take action. In this blog post, we will explore practical ways through which we can collectively save the ocean.

1. Reduce Plastic Consumption: Plastics have become a major menace to marine life. By reducing plastic consumption in our everyday lives, we can significantly limit its impact on the ocean. Start by replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives. Opt for eco-friendly packaging when purchasing products and support businesses that prioritize sustainable practices.

2. Proper Waste Disposal: Improper waste disposal leads to large amounts of garbage ending up in rivers or oceans through runoff. Always dispose of trash responsibly and recycle whenever possible. Participate in local beach cleanups or organize your own community cleanup events to prevent litter from reaching the ocean.

3. Support Sustainable Fishing Practices: Overfishing has depleted fish populations worldwide and disrupted ecosystems. As responsible consumers, choose sustainably sourced seafood certified by organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). Educate yourself about sustainable fishing practices and advocate for their implementation within your community.

4. Minimize Chemical Usage: Toxic chemicals from household cleaning products, fertilizers, and pesticides often find their way into rivers and eventually reach the ocean through runoff. Opt for environmentally friendly alternatives or make your own natural cleaners using ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. Embrace organic gardening methods that rely less on chemical inputs.

5. Conserve Water: Conserving water not only helps preserve this precious resource but also prevents excessive runoff of pollutants into waterways. Reduce your water consumption by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and installing water-efficient appliances. This way, you can indirectly contribute to the health of our oceans.

6. Support Marine Conservation Organizations: Numerous organizations tirelessly work towards protecting and restoring our oceans. Consider supporting their efforts through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness about their initiatives on social media platforms. Collaborate with like-minded individuals in your community to organize fundraisers or educational events centred around marine conservation.

7. Educate Yourself and Others: Increasing awareness is key to saving the ocean. Stay informed about current environmental issues affecting the ocean's health and share this knowledge with others. Engage in conversations, use social media platforms as a tool for spreading awareness, and support educational programs focused on marine conservation in local schools and communities.

Saving the ocean requires collective action from individuals, communities, governments, and businesses alike. By implementing these practical steps in our daily lives, we can significantly reduce our impact on the fragile ecosystems that lie beneath the waves. Let us remember that even small changes can make a big difference when it comes to preserving our blue planet for generations to come. Together, we have the power to protect and restore our magnificent oceans – an invaluable treasure worth fighting for.

[whatcruelworldisthis]

pre-written 8th grade level essay on Plankton

a/n - no reason. just beacause.

I'm sure you may have heard of Plankton, and I don't mean the main antagonist from SpongeBob; I mean the usually microscopic plants and animals that aimlessly float throughout our oceans. However, these tiny weak organisms are much more than meets the eye. Carrying the weight of being a critical source in their food web, producing our oxygen, and moderating the movement of carbon in the ocean and air, Plankton may be the most substantial and crucial life forms in the world.

There are two types of Plankton: Phytoplankton and Zooplankton. Phytoplankton are the plant beings that make up the plankton class. These types of Plankton usually do things to support their habitat and ecosystem. This includes regulating global warming, and being a major source of food for various predators. Zooplankton, on the other hand, are the creatures that make up the plankton class. Zooplankton consist of shrimp, jellyfish, leeches, types of eel, and more. Sometimes large, sometimes small, these animals can facilitate growth for other bacterial species and sea creatures, and serve as a food source.

Plankton make up the base of their food web. Krill-a species of Plankton- are the primary diet of the largest animal on Earth, the Blue Whale. Krill also work together with the whale in a miniature cycle. For example, you would expect the krill population to increase as the whale population decreases, because of the lack of predators to feed. But you would be surprised. The truth is that whale feces is loaded with iron, which makes a very nutritious meal for krill. Whale defecation is also a fertile breeding ground for krill, making their relationship an endless cycle. However, whales are just an example of the many things that depend on Plankton. The marine ecosystem would be significantly changed and disrupted if Plankton stopped existing. In conclusion, Plankton play essential parts in their habitat.

Phytoplankton- plants that classify as Plankton- are the greatest source of oxygen production for us humans. 28% of the world's oxygen comes from the rainforests, 50-80% from the work of phytoplankton, and the 2% from other sources. This shows that the work of the mostly unrecognized, minuscule sea life form is actually the most useful. In conclusion, Plankton are exceptionally valuable, even for us beings outside of the water.

Sadly, the number of Plankton has dropped by 40% since 1950. This is a big problem, because of how few people address it. It's easy to see a rainforest burning down, but not so easy to see such a tiny creature slowly going extinct.

Plankton are also a massive help in keeping the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere under control. As humans release so much carbon into the air, phytoplankton are taking it out. They need it, after all. Phytoplankton incorporate CO2 into their cells for photosynthesis. So it's a fair trade if you think about it.

This process is known as the "biological pump." After making it through the ocean's food chain and life cycle, the carbon ends up deep down in the abyss. So, in the end, Plankton are actively slowing climate change.

Plankton indeed are extraordinary things, as they carry the marine biosphere, give our species what we need to survive, and slow the rapid warming of our planet. They may be weak, but their impact surely isn't.

a/n: feel free to copy and paste this to cheat but just know: im just the messenger, i take no blame for your actions.

but yall prolly dont want it cuz what the fuck. why would you.

but do feel free to use

[nixon-alice]

Armenian Food History: A Journey Through Culinary Traditions

Introduction

Armenian cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by the country's history, geography, and cultural diversity. This article delves into the fascinating history of Armenian food, exploring its origins, staple ingredients, traditional dishes, and the cultural significance of culinary traditions. Join us on a mouthwatering journey through the diverse and flavorful world of Armenian cuisine.

Armenian Food: A Reflection of Cultural Heritage

The Significance of Food in Armenian Culture

In Armenian culture, food holds a special place. It is not merely sustenance but a means of connecting with family, friends, and the community. Sharing meals is a cherished tradition, fostering bonds and creating lasting memories. Armenian hospitality is legendary, and food plays a central role in expressing warmth and generosity.

Staple Ingredients in Armenian Cuisine

Wheat: The Grain that Sustains

Wheat is a staple ingredient in Armenian cuisine, providing the foundation for various breads, pastries, and dishes. Armenians are known for their love of bread, and lavash, a thin, unleavened flatbread, is a culinary icon of Armenia. Other wheat-based dishes, such as gata (a sweet pastry) and anushabur (a soup made with wheat berries), also showcase the importance of this grain.

Meat and Dairy: Cornerstones of Armenian Cooking

Meat and dairy products occupy a significant place in Armenian cuisine. Lamb, beef, and poultry are commonly used in dishes like khorovats, a traditional Armenian barbecue. Dairy products such as yogurt and cheese are essential ingredients in many recipes, adding richness and depth of flavor to dishes like basturma (cured beef) and tolma (stuffed grape leaves).

Fruits, Vegetables, and Herbs: A Bounty of Flavors

Armenia's favorable climate and fertile land allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Apricots, pomegranates, figs, and grapes are among the fruits that thrive in the region. Vegetables like eggplants, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs such as mint and parsley are integral to Armenian recipes, providing freshness and vibrant flavors.

Traditional Armenian Dishes

Khorovats: The Art of Armenian Barbecue

Khorovats, a traditional Armenian barbecue, is an integral part of Armenian culinary culture. It involves marinating meat, typically lamb or pork, in a flavorful blend of spices and grilling it over open flames. The result is succulent, charred pieces of meat that are often enjoyed with lavash, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables.

Dolma: Stuffed Delights

Dolma is a beloved dish in Armenian cuisine. It consists of various vegetables, such as grape leaves, bell peppers, or cabbage leaves, stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, herbs, and spices. Dolma is typically served with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of lemon juice, adding tanginess to the dish.

Lavash: The Versatile Flatbread

Lavash, a soft, thin flatbread, holds a special place in Armenian cuisine. It has been a staple for centuries and is used in various ways. It serves as a wrap for khorovats, a base for toppings in dishes like lahmajoun (Armenian pizza), and even as a utensil to scoop up food. Lavash is versatile, delicious, and an indispensable part of Armenian meals.

Harissa: A Hearty Porridge

Harissa is a traditional Armenian porridge made with cracked wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb. The dish is slow-cooked for several hours until the grains and meat meld together, resulting in a thick and hearty porridge. Harissa is often enjoyed during festive occasions, and its comforting flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia and tradition.

The Influence of Armenian Cuisine on the World

The Spread of Armenian Culinary Traditions

Armenian cuisine has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of the world. As Armenians migrated to different parts of the globe, they brought their culinary traditions with them, influencing the cuisines of various countries. Armenian dishes like dolma, pilaf, and baklava have found their way into the kitchens and hearts of people around the world.

Armenian Diaspora: A Global Impact

The Armenian diaspora has played a significant role in promoting Armenian cuisine internationally. Armenian communities in different countries have established restaurants, bakeries, and food businesses that showcase the flavors and traditions of their homeland. These establishments not only preserve Armenian culinary heritage but also introduce it to a wider audience.

Preserving and Celebrating Armenian Food Culture

Food Festivals and Culinary Events

Armenians take pride in their culinary heritage and celebrate it through food festivals and culinary events. These gatherings bring together people from different backgrounds to savor traditional dishes, share recipes, and pass on culinary knowledge to younger generations. Events like the Yerevan Wine Days and the Dolma Festival highlight the richness and diversity of Armenian cuisine.

Traditional Cooking Techniques and Utensils

Armenian cuisine has a wealth of traditional cooking techniques and utensils that have been passed down through generations. From the tonir (a clay oven used for baking bread) to the saj (a domed griddle for making lavash), these tools play a vital role in preserving the authentic flavors and textures of Armenian dishes. The use of traditional methods adds a unique charm to the culinary experience.

The Role of Food in Armenian Festivities

Armenian festivities are incomplete without a lavish spread of food. Whether it's weddings, New Year celebrations, or religious holidays like Easter, food plays a central role in bringing people together and honoring traditions. Special dishes like gata (sweet bread) during Easter and choreg (buttery, braided bread) during Christmas add a sense of occasion and joy to these festivities.

Conclusion

Armenian food history is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by centuries of cultural exchange and a deep-rooted connection to the land. From the delicious aromas of khorovats on a summer evening to the comforting warmth of harissa on a winter's day, Armenian cuisine reflects the spirit, hospitality, and resilience of its people. As the world embraces diverse culinary traditions, Armenian food continues to captivate and delight, sharing its rich history one bite at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are some popular Armenian desserts?

A: Some popular Armenian desserts include baklava (layered pastry with nuts and syrup), gata (sweet bread), and paklava (sweet pastry with layers of filo dough and nuts).

Q: Are there vegetarian options in Armenian cuisine?

A: Yes, Armenian cuisine offers several vegetarian dishes such as lentil soup, eggplant dolma, and yalanchi (stuffed grape leaves without meat).

Q: Is lavash gluten-free?

A: Lavash is typically made with wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, there are gluten-free variations available using alternative flours.

Q: What is the significance of Armenian bread in the culture?

A: Bread holds great cultural significance in Armenia. It symbolizes sustenance, prosperity, and hospitality. Sharing bread is considered an act of goodwill and friendship.

[priyanshisingh]

Microalgae Fertilizers Market Rising Trends and Research Outlook 2022-2030

The latest market report published by Credence Research, Inc. “Global Microalgae Fertilizers Market: Growth, Future Prospects, and Competitive Analysis, 2016 – 2028. The Global Microalgae Fertilizers market is expected to witness a CAGR of 9.75% during the forecast period. The revenue generated by the global Microalgae Fertilizers market in 2021 was over USD 11.33 million and is expected to generate revenue worth USD 22.28 million in 2028. Therefore, the incremental growth opportunity offered by the global Microalgae Fertilizers is estimated to be USD 120.3 million between 2022 and 2028.

Microalgae Fertilizers Market Major Challenges revolve around several key factors that pose significant obstacles for the industry's growth and adoption. Firstly, there is a lack of awareness among potential consumers about the benefits and efficacy of microalgae-based fertilizers compared to traditional chemical alternatives. This results in limited demand, as farmers tend to stick with familiar products rather than exploring new options. Additionally, the production and cultivation processes involved in microalgae fertilizers often require specialized knowledge and infrastructure, making it difficult for small-scale farmers or developing regions to access these innovative solutions. Moreover, scaling up production to meet market demands remains a challenge due to high costs associated with large-scale cultivation systems and extraction technologies. Furthermore, regulatory frameworks often lag behind technological advancements in this field, creating uncertainties regarding approvals and licensing procedures for microalgae fertilizer products.

Unearthing the Potential of the Microalgae Fertilizers Market in North America

With a focus on sustainable agriculture and increasing demand for organic products, the North American Microalgae Fertilizers Market is witnessing impressive growth. The U.S. has secured a commanding position, holding over 84% of the market share in 2022, with projections showing its dominance stretching until 2030. The fertile grounds of Canada and Mexico aren't far behind, demonstrating remarkable growth rates in the microalgae fertilizers landscape.

Microalgae Fertilizers: The Green Gold of Sustainable Agriculture

Microalgae fertilizers, the unseen heroes of the fertilization market, are the organic answer to the environmental impact caused by conventional chemical fertilizers. These microscopic phytoplanktons, prevalent in marine and freshwater bodies, have a substantial role in enriching the soil with essential nutrients. Their vast potential has catapulted the microalgae fertilizers market valuation to a prospective US$ 22 million.

Sustainable Farming: Breathing Life into the Microalgae Fertilizers Market

Farming trends are changing, focusing more on sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Microalgae fertilizers align seamlessly with these evolving patterns, providing a beneficial counterpoint to the problems caused by inorganic fertilizers. The rise in the microalgae fertilizer market is intricately linked to these global trends, with technology advancement adding fuel to the growth fire.

The Mighty U.S. in the Microalgae Fertilizers Market

The U.S. has emerged as a leader in the North American Microalgae Fertilizers Market, dominating over 84% of the market share. This lead is attributed to an increasing awareness of the environmental impacts of traditional fertilizers and a rising demand for organic products. Government initiatives promoting sustainable agricultural practices further bolster this market.

Browse 210 pages report Microalgae Fertilizers Market by Species (Spirulina, Chlorella, Dunaliella, Schizochytrium, Euglena, NannochloropsisNostoc, Others) by Source (Marine water, Fresh Water) by Application (Biofertilizers, Biocontrole, Soil microalgae, Biostimulants, Soil Conditioner, Others) - Growth, Future Prospects & Competitive Analysis, 2016 – 2030)- https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/microalgae-fertilizers-market

Spirulina: The Spiraling Demand

With the diversity of microalgae species such as Spirulina, Chlorella, Dunaliella, Schizochytrium, Euglena, Nannochloropsis, Nostoc, and others, Spirulina claims the crown. Holding over 35% of the total revenue generated in 2021, Spirulina's use in microalgae fertilizers signifies its pivotal role in the market. Biocontrole, Soil microalgae, Biostimulants, and Soil conditioners contribute to its major applications.

The Rise of Freshwater Microalgae Fertilizers

Freshwater microalgae fertilizers dominate the market with over 70% share in total revenue generation in 2021. With North America accounting for over 35% share in the same year, it's clear the rising demand for organic products and growing awareness about health benefits contribute significantly to this lead.

The Key Players

Several significant players are shaping the global microalgae fertilizers market. These include Algaenergy, Algatec (Lusoamoreiras), Algatechnologies Ltd., Allmicroalgae, Cellana LLC, Cyanotech Corporation, Heliae Development, LLC, Viggi Agro Products, AlgEternal Technologies, LLC, and Tianjin Norland Biotech Co., Ltd. These organizations are propelling the microalgae fertilizers market forward with their innovative practices and commitment to sustainable agriculture.

In conclusion, the North American Microalgae Fertilizers Market is steadily expanding, aided by evolving farming practices, technological advancements, and a stronger focus on sustainability. As the green revolution continues to gain momentum, the microalgae fertilizers market is poised for significant growth in the years to come.

Why to Buy This Report-

The report provides a qualitative as well as quantitative analysis of the global Microalgae Fertilizers Market by segments, current trends, drivers, restraints, opportunities, challenges, and market dynamics with the historical period from 2016-2020, the base year- 2021, and the projection period 2022-2028.

The report includes information on the competitive landscape, such as how the market's top competitors operate at the global, regional, and country levels.

Major nations in each region with their import/export statistics

The global Microalgae Fertilizers Market report also includes the analysis of the market at a global, regional, and country-level along with key market trends, major players analysis, market growth strategies, and key application areas.

Browse Full Report: https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/microalgae-fertilizers-market

Visit: https://www.credenceresearch.com/

Related Report: https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/automated-hydroponic-gardening-systems-market

Related Report: https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/smart-irrigation-systems-market

Browse Our Blog : https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/microalgae-fertilizers-market-share-demand-analysis-size-singh

Browse Our Blog: https://tealfeed.com/microalgae-fertilizers-market-size-worth-usd-hnxgg

About Us -

Credence Research is a viable intelligence and market research platform that provides quantitative B2B research to more than 10,000 clients worldwide and is built on the Give principle. The company is a market research and consulting firm serving governments, non-legislative associations, non-profit organizations, and various organizations worldwide. We help our clients improve their execution in a lasting way and understand their most imperative objectives. For nearly a century, we’ve built a company well-prepared for this task.

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[regent-steel-inc]

Specification and Uses of Forged Fittings

Top Quality Forged Fittings Manufacturers in India

Regent Steel Inc is the leading Forged Fittings Manufacturers in India. Our products, which are made in accordance with international standards, are extensively used by the petrochemical, chemical, oil and gas, and other industries. We are the top Molybdenum Rod Manufacturers and Carbon Steel Flanges Manufacturers in India.

Forged Fittings Specification

Material: Stainless steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, etc.

Size Range: 1/8" to 4" or larger

Pressure Ratings: 3000#, 6000#, 9000# or custom

Types: Elbows, tees, couplings, unions, crosses, caps, plugs, reducers, etc.

Design Standards: ASME B16.11, MSS-SP-79, MSS-SP-83, MSS-SP-95, etc.

Applications of Forged Fittings

Water Treatment Plants

Fertilizers Industry

Marine & Industrial

Oil and Gas Industry

Aircraft Industry

India’s leading Flanges Manufacturer

Regent Steel Inc is a top Forged Fittings Manufacturers in India.We appreciate how crucial having trustworthy and durable flanges are for your piping systems, thus we are committed to offering flanges that adhere to the highest standards of quality and performance. We are the top Flange Manufacturer in Pune and Flange Manufacturer in Kolkata. 

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Product source: Forged Fittings Manufacturers in India and Carbon Steel Flanges Manufacturers in India.

You may also like: Flanges Manufacturers in India

[sciencespies]

Plastic additives contaminate the sea and selectively harm corals' reproduction processes, research finds

https://sciencespies.com/nature/plastic-additives-contaminate-the-sea-and-selectively-harm-corals-reproduction-processes-research-finds/

Plastic additives contaminate the sea and selectively harm corals' reproduction processes, research finds

A new study by Tel Aviv University and the Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences in Eilat examined the effect of plastic additives on the reproductive process and larvae development of corals and other organisms commonly found in the coral reef of Eilat. Plastic additives are chemicals that are added to plastic products during manufacturing, and many of them are known to be endocrine disrupting compounds. The current study shows that these chemicals can have species-specific effects that may damage the population structure and biodiversity of coral reefs.

The study was led by Ph.D. student Gal Vered of the Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences in Eilat and Tel Aviv University, and Prof. Noa Shenkar of Tel Aviv University’s School of Zoology in the Wise Faculty of Life Sciences and the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History. The study was published in the journal Environmental Pollution.

The researchers focused on four organisms: a stony coral, a soft coral, a fire coral and a solitary ascidian. These organisms play an important role in the ecology of tropical coral reefs, and damage to their reproduction and development may affect the structure of the reef community.

In addition, the researchers examined four chemical additives that are widely used in plastic products and which have been found in seawater in tropical areas inhabited by coral reefs. Two of these were phthalate chemicals, which are used to soften and increase the flexibility of different types of plastic and can be found in a wide variety of consumer products such as food packaging, toys, medical devices, and adhesives. The others were 4-nonylphenol a stabilizer used in plastic packaging and as an additive in cleaning agents, and bisphenol A found in polycarbonate plastic that is used for food and beverage packaging, baby bottles, boxes, and more. The European Chemicals Agency has classified bisphenol A as a substance that may cause damage to human fertility, based on evidence found in laboratory animals.

Gal Vered explains: “Plastic additives are chemical additives that are incorporated into plastic products during the manufacturing process. These substances reach marine environments through plastic waste and wastewater. Some of them are known to activate or suppress hormonal processes, and can therefore disrupt biological systems. However, their effects on organisms in coral reefs have hardly been studied. The structure of the coral reef population depends on the success of the reproduction, development and settlement of corals and other reef organisms. Interference with their hormonal systems may affect the chances of success of these processes, and an uneven effect on the different species may lead to a change in the community’s structure and damage to the entire system.”

The researchers conducted a series of exposure experiments in which the effects of the plastic additives were tested at environmentally-relevant concentrations in seawater, and at higher laboratory concentrations. The parameters measured were fertilization, larvae development, larvae survival, and larvae settlement and metamorphoses.

The environmentally-relevant concentration of 4-nonylphenol was found to inhibit larvae settlement in the soft coral, while a high concentration of the same compound damaged the fertilization, development and settlement of all the studied organisms. The higher laboratory concentration of one of the studied phthalate chemicals damaged the settlement only of the stony coral larvae, and not of the other organisms’ reproductive products. These findings add to the accumulating evidence that plastic pollution has a selective effect on different species.

Prof. Shenkar: “Our findings demonstrate plastic additives’ negative and selective effects on the development and reproduction of coral reef organisms. The environmentally-relevant concentrations used in our experiments were concentrations found in seawater; alarmingly, some had deleterious effects on organisms’ reproduction. Nevertheless, concentration within organisms’ tissues may reach higher levels as these compounds can potentially bioaccumulate. To better understand the impact of plastic additives on this endangered ecosystem, we suggest developing better methods for measuring the actual concentrations within the tissues of the organisms to produce relevant risk assessments.”

Gal Vered: “Climate change, ocean acidification, and ongoing anthropogenic stressors place coral reefs at existential risk. Most of the coral reefs in the world are found in developing countries where the human population is expanding rapidly and waste management is lacking. Steps towards preventing plastic waste from reaching the environment include proper local waste management that reduces transportation of waste, and sustainable consumption of products regulated for additives.”

The researchers conclude: “We emphasize the importance of proper waste management that will reduce the presence of plastic waste from reaching the marine environment, as well as the need for methods to measure the concentration of chemicals inside the bodies of organisms, in order to assess the possible risk to their reproductive and developmental processes.”

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Materials provided by Tel-Aviv University. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

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