#biodegradable business ideas

[newbusinessideas]

Top 10 Eco Friendly Business Ideas to Start a Sustainable Future

🌿 Go green and grow profits! Discover the Top 10 Biodegradable Product Manufacturing Business Ideas that are shaping a sustainable future. 🌎💡 Start your eco-friendly journey today! 💰♻️ #BiodegradableBusiness #EcoFriendlyIdeas #SustainableLiving #Green

Today, as you all know, environmental protection is one of the biggest challenges. The solution to this challenge is biodegradable products, which do not harm the environment. The global market for biodegradable products has expanded significantly over the past few years as individuals and businesses adopt more sustainable practices. The government of India is also promoting this sector and…

[cryptonature]

Business Idea: Biodegradable googly eyes I can put on mushrooms and clumps of moss while I walk in the woods.

[foulpaperplane]

Vladco Heiress au is constantly on loop in my head so here my ideas for the other DP characters:

Jazz - researcher psychologist with a focus on socio-cultural psychology. After Danny manages to come to a compromise with his rouges, creating a long-term truce, she becomes interested in cultural differences between Realm beings and Amity Parkers & later on how the two cultures started to blend and form unique social norms.

Tucker - didn’t go to college and just started immediately working at Vladco as Danny's assistant/advisor to help him out while he figured out how to run the company. Once Danny started getting things under control Tucker became an engineer (still at Vladco) to focus on his inventions.

Sam - she properly sat down with her parents and talked to them leading to them realizing they have been acting unreasonably and compromising. Her dad offers to teach her and Danny both business and how to lead a company as an olive branch. I imagine her family has a successful telecommunication company but for now her dad is running the company so Sam can start her own company which creates and researches eco-friendly solutions (e.g biodegradable plastics) while working with a bunch of eco charities.

Valerie - in my au she joins the Phantom team during 50 Shades Of Valerie Grey. The team has trouble trusting her at first but eventually they become close friends. I imagine that she took some odd jobs after high school trying to support her dad and then ended up with a security job she enjoyed. Once Ellie started traveling Danny hired her to act as Ellie's bodyguard because she's the only person he could trust keep Ellie safe. Whenever she's back in Amity she meets up with Danny and Tucker to have geek out sessions where they create ridiculous technology while not sleeping for 3 days.

Wes - became part of Team Phantom after Val but before the release of Pariah Dark. Became an investigative journalist so he travels a lot - this and his tendency to hyper fixate on his articles means that he's horrible at keeping in touch with people. He's closest with Valerie (she was the first one to properly accept him onto the team) and Ellie (they meet up whenever they are in same city and compare notes about rich people - Wes tells her which CEO's he thinks are doing shady shit and she tells him which rich people gave her bad vibes or are assholes).

[reasonsforhope]

"A Delhi-based engineer has designed a replacement for polystyrene packaging out of “rice stubble” the dead stalks left over after the rice season in India, millions of tons of which are burned every year.

They say wisdom oft comes from the mouths of babes, and Mr. Arpit Dhupar was at first left scratching his head when his young nephew drew a picture of the world with a grey sky.

Everything else was normal, green grass, yellow sun, white and brown mountains; why was the sky grey? It dawned on him that his nephew was drawing the sky as he saw it every year when the rice stubble was burned: grey.

“We shouldn’t live in a world where we have to explain to kids that the sky should be painted blue. It should be a given,” he told The Better India.

So he launched a new business venture called Dharaksha Ecosystems in order to tackle the rice stubble problem. Essentially, the farmers need it cleared off their land asap after harvest. Its high moisture content means it’s not useful for stove fuel, so they burn it in massive pyres.

In his factory, he turns 250 metric tons of rice stubble harvested from 100 acres of farmland in Punjab and Haryana into packaging, while paying the farmers a rate of $30 per acre for something they would usually burn.

Dhupar originally wanted to use mushrooms to rapidly biodegrade baled stacks of rice stubble, but found that the fungus left behind a metabolite that wasn’t biodegradable—in other words, he’d have to create a waste problem to solve a waste problem.

Over time he realized that the filaments that make up the subterranean structure of the mushrooms, called mycelium, were acting as a sort of binding agent, turning the baled stubble into something durable.

“This wasn’t a waste material but could be a usable one,” said Dhupar. “Through bio-fabrication, we could use the stubble waste to create a material similar to [polystyrene], but one that was biodegradable.”

There are a lot of these sorts of sustainable packaging ideas floating around, invented by people who rarely have experience in markets and commerce. This is not the case with Dhupar’s stubble packaging.

He has already prevented over half a million pounds of polystyrene from entering landfills since launching his product, which has numerous, exceptional properties.

They sell around 20 metric tons of their product every month, making about $30.5 thousand dollars per annum, mostly by selling to glassware companies."

-via Good News Network, 3/22/23

[swampstew]

Period HCs with Monster Trio + Law, Killer, and Kid

Ya girl is wracked with cramps, overflowing with emotions, and seriously lacking in chocolate :( enjoy this utter nonsense my blazed brain baked as I curl back into fetal position.

Summary: Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, Law, Killer, and Kid ranked by how they would handle themselves while you have your period. Implied established relationship♡

Minors DNI.

The worst actually. Not on purpose but Luffy's lack of awareness or self-restraint makes it difficult to appreciate his efforts. Not to mention he eats your snacks. You'd think with Nami and Robin on board he'd have some idea of what you're dealing with. Nope, you have to explain it again, it'll stick this time but it comes with another round of curious/invasive questions.

All your period comfort foods? Gone. The replacements? Also gone. You're lucky if there's a crumb of your favorite snack left over. Thankfully for everyone involved, his crew lends him a hand to make sure you're (eventually) satiated with alternatives and don't go on a murder spree during your cravings. On the flip side, Luffy abuses his power as Captain to have Sanji bring you both all the food when the kitchen is finally restocked. Good luck and bite him back if you have to!

His saving grace is using Gear 2 to cuddle and keep you warm. Giving you heated massages, foot and belly rubs until you're purring like a kitten. Unfortunately, he can only do the same thing for so long before growing bored. He needs a lot of intermittent breaks.

Has no tact, will ask you uncomfortable questions about your "thing going on" or your "comma" because he's so very curious and maybe also looking for ways to "fix you." Once he finds out about period poops, its over for you - there will be hourly check-ins. He'll make sure you're well stocked up on absorption products so there's that (also say thank you Nami, Robin and Franky)!

Zoro is shockingly adaptable but I guess if you spend enough time with one girl for two years - and also live with 2 full time - you're gonna learn a thing or two about having a period. Also, surprisingly reliable at getting you what you need, so long as you don't mind 2 hours to 2 business days to get it. Look he's trying ok?!

Be careful with what you say though. If you joke about cutting your uterus out, he'll take you at face value and have his blades ready. No one is a better slice master than he! Why is Chopper having a heart attack? BRB gotta tend to the younger bro.

Is not phased by your bodily changes or anything you might perceive to be "gross." Bodies are natural and they're just doing what they're meant to do, and for what it's worth he's trying to say things that will make you feel better but they don't always land. This comes from a guy who showers maybe twice a week so take the compliments as you will. He means them with his whole heart!

Out of all the guys, he's the only one who will respect your craving habits in a supportive way. That's to say he'll give you everything you want, but he knows when to cut you off before you make yourself sick. He also has a (terrifying) gift of knowing when your body is flushing itself out and he'll be right at your side with a tampon or pad in his hand at the ready. "I'm very in sync with you."

Ranks third because he's so fucking logical and doctorly. The kind of doctor that expects his medical advice and prognosis to outweigh your personal experience/feelings. Has Law ever experienced intense cramping and a headache while gushing a pint of blood and also pulled a full day's shift? No! "Doctoring" immediately invalid. Unless he gives you paid time off in which case his license is once again formally recognized.

On the OTHER hand, he will always have a colorful variety of options for you to take care of your personal business. He buys all biodegradable products, recyclable ones too! He also offers the best choices in birth control for you. Gynecology wasn't his specialty but taking care of his crew is so he studies and gets his license on the downlow.

Is VERY particular about his time spent and frankly, cuddling in bed isn't something he's entirely excited about. Sure he can do it with Bepo but that's like sleeping with a teddy bear you've had your whole life. Another person is different, especially one that needs his undivided attention and comfort. He'll give it and he won't complain about it, but he's not familiar with it and might be awkward at it for a time. Once he figures out what works best for you and let's himself relax around you, he's got the cuddling and rubbing your belly/lower back down to an exact science.

Questionable palate offerings when he first experiences your cravings. You had to teach him what's what when it comes to comfort eating and nutritional eating when you're in pain and your brain feels a bit scrambled from existing. Ikkaku had tried in the past to broaden the snack closet but it never stuck. With you, Law suddenly remembers to get things outside of his own personal preferences and comforts. It's comfort food for the BEPERIODED, LAW.

It's entirely because he's a chef and a well-groomed cutie that he ranks this highly. Honestly it was neck and neck between him and Law. His resume in the kitchen makes you forget about his perviness and near-infantilization of you.

You'll never have a craving unsatisfied because Sanji will go to the ends of the Earth to curb your hunger. The One Piece and All Blue can wait, his darling needs a rich, velvety chocolate mousse two minutes ago! He absolutely spoils you which may lead to overstuffing you until you feel worse than how the cramps made you feel.

Sanji waits on you hand and foot during your period. Practically carries you from point A to point B if you so wish. It might get annoying after a while if you don't like a hot blonde popping in your face every 10 minutes to offer you something you knew you needed but didn't know you needed right that second and you're kind of annoyed that he got it before you could even vocalize your own needs! Does that happen to anyone else or...? If you're into that pampered lifestyle, Sanji is the guy for you.

He wasn't around women a lot but living with Robin and Nami he did learn about products used and comfort items sought out, which he gives you in abundance. Sanji's weakness - period boobies. The slight swell has him a blubbering mess and he will always try to sneak a peek. He may or may not be able to smell your pheromones - its unclear but he is definitely sniffing you from time to time.

The clear winner out of the others its not even a joke. Is the trifecta of caring, supportive, and intuitive. The Period Manager™ everyone else should go back to their ship. No I am not biased.

Killer is the Chef of Carbo-loading but he knows his way around the kitchen and can make anything you desire at any given time. Desserts aren't his strongest suit but its the effort that makes it taste all the sweeter. You will never be without chocolate, praise be.

You've seen him so you know he knows muscles. Yours will become putty in his hands as he gently massages your aching body. With the help of low dose pain killers, Killer will slay your pain one sore muscle at a time.

Killer is so intuitive that he knows you have your period before you. Has your cubby on the bathroom countertop that includes: pads, tampons, flow-cup, aspirin, fuzzy socks, eye mask, and bottled juice. Your robe is hanging behind the door. He loves you so much.

Haha bitch you though. Kid is the true winner. Killer was the favored winner but you might have forgotten this is me we're talking about and Kid has never done anything wrong in his life ever. I support all his rights and wrongs, and I cheerlead at every speck of effort he puts in.

Where everyone else had mentors or positive authority figures to bond with, Kid had Killer - and Killer tried his fucking best. But not even someone as amazing as Killer can be a single mom and raise a mentally stable, well functioning person in society in a corrupted, gang-ruled regime. HOWEVER - Killer did teach Kid how to treat his period-having partner during their woes and Kid's success is Killer's pride and joy.

Like Luffy, Kid will definitely swipe your snacks and food because he's a greedy, greedy glutton. Prove you can bark back at him to stand your ground and he'll yield to you with a scoff and a pout. He doesn't even LIKE your snacks, he claims🙄 He'll make sure you have enough to satisfy your craving and then have a month supply in the hull of the ship just in case. This is where he'll sneak a few for himself without your notice.

Being the King of Treating Himself, Kid will generously make you things to comfort you. A weighted, heat-controlled blanket; a vibrating teddy bear that hugs your belly; a snack organizer to keep your preferences nearby; a personal cold/hot water cooler; pretty things to make you smile; dirty things to excite you for when its over; the gifts are boundless. So are the period products that he basically just steals from the other women in the crew.

“Captain you better reimburse me for those heavy flow tampons!!”

“I’m busy Quincy. Go bitch to the piggy bank (Wire) about it!!!”

“KILLER STOP THAT MAN!”

In his line of work, he's used to nitty gritty and things better left to the imagination. Also a bit grimy himself on occasion. That said, nothing your body does will ever disgust him. He rolls with whatever you throw at him. Bloodied bedsheets? He'll gently toss you and the sheets in the tub. He'll help clean out your soiled clothes. Buy or steal whatever you need to ease your comfort. Embarrassed by the way you feel or look? He'll give you a reassuring kiss on the cheek and say, "Eh, I've seen/heard/smelled worse."

[vaniloqu3nce]

Spider-Wolf Au Headcanons Cause I’m Slowly Writing This Chapter

Spider-Wolf Au Enid is very smart with things like robotics and tech, though she struggles with subjects she’s bored in like history. (Because someone needed to make her web shooters and I love this). On nights when she was supposed be with pack doing stereotypical werewolf things, she stayed home with her father and worked in his shop. (Because Enid deserves a good parent who encourages some of her interests) She developed a love of engineering and showed brightness for it at a young age. This is how Enid’s bond with her father grew to be so strong. (he is getting uncle ben-ed) She loves spending time tinkering with new costume ideas and new web shooters. All her webs are colorful and glittery but the material is biodegradable and disappears fairly quickly. On full moons, she usually spends her time in the robotics room tinkering very late at night.

I raise you nerdy outgoing Enid because what lesbian rule says you can’t be a femme who likes make up AND like to get your hands dirty while giggling about how cool pink webs will look. She has duality, versatility, and probably the worst sleep schedule known to human kind.

Bonus: Wednesday listens to Enid rant about her latest projects from robotics club. Wednesday is surprised when she learns Enid has a passion for it, but is quickly very endeared because Enid smiles so bright when she talks about her hobbies.

Bonus bonus: Enid takes her goth roommate (gf) to robotics club, antics ensue. Enid is the only one who will go near Wednesday but she doesn’t notice, she’s too busy rambling and showing Wednesday around. Their shoulders are glued together obviously. Wednesday just nods and hums but Enid loves that she listens because nobody else really lets her just fire off like this besides Yoko.

[thenightling]

I'm posting this to calm some Beetlejuice fans with anxiety

Okay, I know I can't tell you anything official. Only Tim Burton can do that. But here are my reasons for believing Beetlejuice was NOT destroyed at the end of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.

All right, here there be spoilers. We're talking about the end of the movie so I figured spoilers would be obvious but... This is The Internet... SPOILERS! Why I do NOT believe Beetlejuice was destroyed at the end of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. 1. Beetlejuice violated a rule of The Netherworld in taking a mortal into The Land of The Dead. This voids Beetlejuice's contract with Lydia. It does not mean instant death. Nothing is said in-canon to sugget this. 2. Lydia banishes Beetlejuice by saying his name three times. As established in the previous film this is how you banish him after he has been invoked. 3. I've seen some speculation of "But there is some lore where if you banish a ghost enough times the ghost is destroyed." Really? Speaking as an armchair folklorist, occultist, and paranormal researcher... What lore is this? That's not in any folklore or movie I've ever seen and more importantly it never comes up in either of the Beetlejuice movies, Beetlejuice Broadway musical, Beetlejuice comic books, Beetlejuice amusement park live show, or the Beetlejuice animated series. Rule of thumb if it's not established in the canon of the franchise, or tie-ins to the franchise (even AUs) than chances are it's not canon. Also if I humor the idea that banishing him "too many times" will destroy him than shouldn't that have happened already? Obviously he's been very busy with his bio-exorcism business (the small-heads managing his call centre). Each customer invokes him by calling his name three times and then sends him away when they're done by also saying his name three times. That would be a LOT of invocations and banishments. Why would Lydia's banishment be one too many? There was nothing to suggest this.

4. Yes, Beetlejuice inflates and he never did that when being banished previously in the films. This is true. However each banishment or invocation is unique. In the first movie, the first time he's banished it is by Barbara while he's messing with the Deetz family in the form of a giant snake. When banished he says "Oh, no!" and Then pops away from his snake form and the banister is back to normal. The inflation is also a direct and deliberate homage to the first episode of the Beetlejuice animated series. In that episode we see him inflate and pop and there's even a song number that mentions it. "Biodegradable, semi-inflatable, ghost with the most!" Why would popping as a balloon suddenly destroy him? He was eaten by a Sandworm in the first movie. And his head was shrunk at the end of the first movie. That didn't last either. I didn't think anyone thought it would. He can shapeshift. 5. In the Beetlejuice movies only two ways of destroying ghosts have been established and even they are negotiable. Exorcism and being eaten by a soul sucker (Succubus). (Justice for Bob!) Being banished (sent back to The Netherworld (Neither world in the animated series) via name de-invocation) is not the same as an exorcism. 6. If he was really destroyed do you honestly think Beetlejuice's last words would be a casual "Should've got married in Vegas."? 7. At the end of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Lydia has a dream within a dream and when she wakes up from the secondary dream we can hear Beetlejuice cackle before his (apparent) favorite song's disco cover starts to play on the end credits. Much like the Evil Ed laugh and and "You're so cool Brewster!" at the end of the original 1985 Fright Night, this was to tell us he's really still alive. (FYI for the curious, in Fright Night Evil Ed was supposed to be the villain in Fright Night: Part 2 in 1988 by the way but the actor didn't want to come back to the franchise at the time. So the character came back in the comics instead.) 8. There is no canonical reason in-story to believe Beetlejuice was destroyed by violating his contract and being banished. There was nothing established to suggest this would happen. I've watched the second movie twice now and have the first movie pretty much memorized. There's nothing in the lore to even hint that this would destroy him. 9. Tim Burton doesn't like to kill his favorite characters and Beetlejuice is one of his favorites. 10. If we take The "Hot Ones" crossover video as canon and taking place after the second movie, than he's definitely still around. 11. He can't be destroyed because... Somebody left the cake out in the rain...

[iriemorning]

maybe we should read less, and watch less

it radically sucks to be a primary witness to the literacy rate dwindling in my generation of cyberslackers and doomscrollers. but the fault is not on them. technological advancements over the past decades have helped creatives and artists to produce work more efficiently, and as of late, there are still thousands of books and movies being launched every day.

but the quality is somehow almost always lacking.

marketing also plays a crucial role. if i could somehow summarize the current phenomena we live in in a single word—it’s what "ticks." dictionary refers to it as a regular short, sharp sound, especially that made by a clock or watch. first, there’s TikTok, the hotbed of trends. then there’s the personalized ‘for you’ algorithm on our social media accounts. songs are getting shorter. everything is shortened and timed and personalized. for a business to prosper, you must catch the attention of a bypasser in a single ‘tick’ or else you lose momentum in the sea of shortness.

time hasn’t changed. clocks still function the same a century ago. so where's the problem? in the endless production of pointless content that we all take for granted. there’s a lot to choose from but not everything is worthy to be consumed.

all of these stemmed from me watching a movie that left me hanging dry because there was no real resolution at the end. it bothered me so much that i began to question the writers, producers, directors, actors, staff who were behind it and let it happen. especially the executives who greenlighted the idea. time and effort and money are non-biodegradable so to waste them to produce another waste baffled me even in my sleep.

the literacy rate is down already, but maybe we should read less, and watch less.

that’ll teach them.

but it’s hard to just gang up like that when the trending hobbies these days is to binge and splurge—eating, watching, reading, shopping. the dopamine spree is limitless (or so it looks). not to toot my own horn, i also love indulging, but it’s precisely why im so annoyed about it. we are all stuck in this web of hedonism.

what drives me even crazier are those who quantify these trendy hobbies into a badge of honor. oh, a movie every day? you’ve read 150 books this year? [read: to all the self-proclaimed bibliophiles and cinephiles out there—who treat reading books and watching movies like a rat race, and belittle those not as widely exposed to the classics and canon as them] ask some of them what they learned, and they can barely make up intelligible concepts.

that’s the biggest concern: all input, no output.

there’s a lot we can learn about what we choose to consume, so to come out of the cinema and close the book without your life being changed in some way is depressing. it’s the postmodern tragedy we can save ourselves from before it’s too late.

every piece of art and media can serve as a tool and guide to life. it’s in our own volition to choose quality works over quantity, and utilize them to improve our living in some way or another.

every time we read and watch something, we must contribute and give back something equally meaningful. put it out into the world. write, compose, speak out. that’s where energy flows

not just consuming mindlessly like zombies.

[http-mianhae]

05 ➛ matthew, the worst trainer in the world (0.8k)

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you know he's nervous behind that fake smile but you do something nice called 'not acknowledging it'. it doesn't help the case at all because the boy, shortly after he introduced himself as 'matthew' continues to be a mess.

he zooms through the explanation of how each of the machines work and you thank god that you took a barista course so you could keep up reasonably well. you stood there, staring at him explaining everything blankly and then, something snapped in you at last when he went into a tangent about how they use biodegradable forks because it was better for the environment.

"i'm not going to bite your head off, okay?"

he purses his lips tight.

"that's quite literally what i told him―"

"mind your business, hao!" matthew interrupts, shooting the older a glare.

hao is quick to return the glare and he points towards the front, "customer."

matthew almost dashes to the register where a customer is approaching with a pondering look on their face.

"y/n, you should stand next to matthew and learn how to take an order." hao instructs you.

you're hesitant but follow through with the instructions, standing next to matthew who greets the customer with his fake smiles.

"w-welcome to sip & soothe, what can i get for you?"

you're shoulder-to-shoulder and you catch the sweat drip down his forehead.

do i make him that nervous?

the customer tells him their order but matthew is staring right ahead, a smile vaguely on his face.

he isn't doing anything.

just standing there and smiling.

oh, lord.

"yeah, no worries, we'll get that for you." you jump in with a smile, tapping the drink on the register. the customer whips out their card and with a few clicks, you're pointing at the card machine, "whenever you're ready."

matthew's still standing like a monument.

"that's it. matthew, go catch a break." hao comes in between the two of you.

"but, i―"

hao glares.

matthew doesn't argue back. he removes his apron, leaving from behind the register with a face so disappointed you felt a little bad.

do i have that much of an effect on him?

you try brushing it off as hao began explaining to you, the right, nicely-paced way of how to use all the machines and as much as you were listening, your mind was on matthew.

he's in the corner of your eyesight, facing away from you as if he doesn't want to see you.

it bothers you.

he must be having a hard time.

"i'm sorry, do you mind if i go talk to matthew really quickly?" you finally ask hao.

you don't really care about the impression this makes with hao.

hao, surprised, slowly nods, "sure...i think that's a good idea actually."

with that, you also remove your apron, putting it on top of where matthew's was.

walking towards him, you realise you're sort of an obstacle towards his job. it disheartens you, you don't want to be the type of person to distract him from his job.

the guy seems nice and you would love to be friends with him but if he lets this gets in the way, you're going to lose him and he's going to lose his job.

you had the natural responsibility to fix it.

"can i sit?" you ask him, pointing towards the chair.

he looks up from his phone, eyes widening at your presence―the very person he was running away from, "yes."

you're quiet for a second.

"how long have you liked me for?" you begin.

matthew doesn't look at you, "maybe four months."

you didn't know you could keep someone's interest for that long. you hiss audibly, "that's a long time."

he nods, cheeks flushing rose.

"the whole pickup line thing wasn't my idea by the way. so please don't associate me with that."

you laugh, finding it funny how defensive he was over something so small. he'd just confessed to you and now, he's speaking about some pineapple joke, "if it helps, i thought the pickup line thing was weird. i'm glad you told me that though."

and it's quiet again.

you say what you want to say.

"listen, matthew," you start, "you seem really nice and i'd like to get to know you better! but i can't really do that if you're so nervous all the time. again, if it helps, i'll take you having a crush on me as a compliment."

matthew nods again. he seems to be ending the war with himself, "okay."

"lets start over?" you ask.

he nods once more.

"want to show me how those machines work?"

"i thought hao-hyung already showed you."

"i want you to show me." you press on.

and for the first time, you see his real smile.

please comment or lmk in any way for the taglist!

TAGLIST ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ @tocupid

[chromaticramblings]

book review - ecotopia by ernest callenbach

Ecotopia, written by ernest callenbach in the 1970s, describes a world in which the land regions previously known as northern california, washington, and oregon secede from the rest of the united states and create their own nation, the nation of Ecotopia. the principles of sustainability and circular economy are central to this new nation.

here are my thoughts on some things covered in the book, i hope that this reaches someone else who's read it and we can share thoughts!

(this will include spoilers. however, the nature of the book is not a narrative, and is rather a presentation of ideas. therefore reading this post will not ruin the book for you if you choose to read it)

one of the greatest thought experiments Ecotopia undertakes is that of ideal urban planning. in that respect, the book is pretty cool! they hypothetical nation of Ecotopia describes San Francisco as a central city hub, from which spokes of public transport emerge and run to smaller city towns. these towns take the place of suburbs, which were razed during the country’s Independence / reconstruction era. (wooooo!!) public transport abounds and runs at a high speed of 30 mph, which is all you really need since the urban centers are so densely built and multi use. Between city towns are managed forests (actual forests! not monocultures) as well as natural land which has been allowed to restore itself.

people live in flexible communes that typically work together to produce something, whether that be a farming commune, fishing commune, artist communes, or business / science communes that invent things. everyone has a universal base income that is just minimal enough to reasonably get by, allowing people to pursue art or a risky startup without fear of dying. which i think is really cool! necessity breeds innovation yes but you need security too. work culture in Ecotopia is also vastly different, as the boundary between work and leisure and personal time is eroded, which may seem like a bad thing but the consequence of the UBI system means that most Ecotopians actually Like their work and choose to do it of their own free will. crazy huh.

houses are typically made of wood, which to me raised a suspicion flag, cause this is the Bay Area we’re talking about, which is Humid as Shit, and the Ecotopians have phased out paint due to it containing heavy metals. which good for them i guess but those houses are gonna rot lmfao. i took the liberty of imagining they are proofed with sealant made from the biodegradable, non petroleum based plastic the Ecotopians had developed and manufactured. while wood is the building material of choice, houses are also built from large tubes of insulated bioplastic, which are joined at the whim of the family or commune creating the house. (there are no architects, everyone builds their own houses themselves to suit their needs.) these houses are cheap and accessible, and zoning laws seem to be nonexistent, making homelessness a nonissue.

in terms of materials, everything in Ecotopia is renewable and has a full zero waste lifecycle. wood is the material of choice. the only metal Ecotopians use comes from scavenged cars and machinery of the pre seccession era. Ecotopians still manufacture plastic, but most kinds of it are fully biodegradable in a few days. when a lasting material is needed, a different type of plastic is used; this kind will not degrade until it is in full contact with soil. given how important disposable plastic is for applications such as research, i'm glad this was considered and accounted for in this book instead of throwing it off as a "we don't need plastic anymore kumbaya" kinda vibe.

culture wise, there is a lack of emotional restraint which the book’s narrator, a visitor from NYC, frequently comments on. hugs and physical affection between all relationships and genders are normalized. there also seems to be an insistence on small talk as a way to humanize those working “lesser skilled” jobs. honestly i found this a bit annoying, as i don’t think small talk is necessarily indicative of human connection, and that a truly emotionally attuned people would be okay with giving space when necessary. but i thought it was nice to acknowledge that all people are people, even while working “subservient” jobs.

ok so those were the things i liked.

criticism #1.

WILLIAM WESTON STOP BEING A FUCKING MISOGYNIST CHALLENGE

alternatively:

ERNEST CALLENBACH WRITE ONE (1) WOMAN WHO ISN’T A SEX OBJECT CHALLENGE

NO, THE WOMAN WHO YOU DESCRIBED AS UNATTRACTIVE WHO ALSO HAPPENS TO BE IN A POSITION OF POWER DOES NOT COUNT

god jesus christ

over the course of his adventures, journalist William Weston encounters many fellows (men) and new friends whom he talks around the fire with (men). he also encounters Marissa, a beautiful wild woman, exotic and mysterious who runs through the forest, cares deeply for trees, stares into his soul with her plain face and round dark eyes, and has sex with him twenty four hours three hundred sixty five days a year.

he also encounters Linda, an attractively sarcastic yet caring nurse, who nurses his injuries, jacks him off, and consumes him with thoughts of when he “will be healed enough to fuck her properly”. (direct quote)

in addition to the misogyny, there appears to be a fair amount of gender essentialism in Ecotopian society, something I found disappointing. Ecotopian clothes are sharply gendered. (from my understanding of Ecotopian values, i’d expect everyone to be wearing skirts due to the ease of manufacture and resulting ease of movement.) women are described to have an “air of fertility” (yes, actually). the governing party is made up of women, due to womens’ “natural competency regarding cooperation and diplomacy rather than competition”. the only sport in the country, the ritual war games, is barred to women. (it’s actually remarked later in the book that in Ecotopian psychology offices, it is often women who come in with issues of untamed aggression, and attributes it to their exclusion from the games. i wonder what a solution could be 🤔) thankfully work is not gendered, but it appears the social spheres of men and women rarely intersect, as Weston socializes and discusses ideas with a fair amount of men, and no women. perhaps for the better, as he’d be too distracted trying to fuck them to have a discussion of any substance.

queer pairings are also mentioned offhand, but they serve the purpose of emphasizing the Ecotopian's open attitudes towards sex and intimacy. queerness is treated as a sexual quirk rather than as an orientation.

in addition to the disappointing sexism / heterosexism, there's a good amount of racism. different races live segregated. although this is a conscious choice by the inhabitants, it still strikes as somewhat odd that there wouldn't be a way for humans to maintain their culture while living in an integrated society. many of the barriers to race equality in our current system are abolished in Ecotopia; the cheapness of the bioplastic houses makes it accessible for anyone to own a house anywhere, and the ease with which people can start their own enterprises reduces employment barriers significantly. therefore i'd expect integration between races to be a significant achievement of the Ecotopians. the writing itself is also racist. callenbach makes distinctions while describing the cultures of the nonwhite populations that make it clear that white is the default of Ecotopia, and all other cultures are side notes. also, callenbach makes no mention of an Ecotopian prison system (an aspect of society that no doubt merits analysis) until he mentions the Black community. sir what is up with that 🤨

there's also a lot to be said of callenbach's treatment of Indigenous ideas. the Ecotopians take a lot of inspiration from classic Indigenous principles, such as living in balance with the earth's natural resources and respecting nonhuman life, and Indigenous clothing styles. however, this feels rather appropriative rather than appreciative, and there are no actual Indigenous characters in the book. i would expect that such an empathetic society which takes direct principles from Indigenous culture would appreciate and honor the Indigenous people within that society rather than just shamelessly taking their culture, especially given the context that Ecotopians are ex citizens of the united states, the country which caused the Indigenous communities in that area so much harm.

overall, i think this book's strengths lie in its rethinking of what society could be like without work as its central focus. i love the UBI system, the reduced work week, and the attitude of work as something to enjoy rather than something to get over with. i also love that the nation's economic fall wasn't skipped over. i think its important to realize that many policies which would improve human health and quality of life would also lower our GDP, and that maybe that's perfectly fine. maybe human lives matter more than how rich a nation is. despite all these strengths, however, the sexism and racism cannot be overlooked; they made me almost put the book down several times. this book is clearly a product of its time, written by a white man. in keeping with good critical thinking practices, its important to recognize what ideas are good to keep and what needs to be thrown out.

tldr: great ideas about an alternative structure for society, unfortunately sexist and racist as well. 6/10

[rametarin]

Also, climate change activists are going to have problems in the future.

Human industry and activity was supposed to be something that became okay to punish businesses and governments over and attribute responsibility and guilt to them for the crimes of natural disasters, presumed partially the results of the wealthy.

However, it becomes increasingly more difficult to do that beyond principle and conceptual ideas, the better we get at mitigating pollution and the sources of particulates. We were never supposed to be able to be so successful at doing that.

More or less some people argued that certain people that take shits are responsible for intense rainstorms and are obligated to pay more in taxes for it than other people whom take shits. Shitting is supposed to be something a person, if alive, will just do. And then along comes science, developing ways for humans to shit and not cause natural disasters.

"Wait.. wait. No. You're not supposed to be able to shit and it be inert. You're supposed to be guilty as a course of being alive and functioning! You're supposed to owe labor and resources to the population and society, for the crime of being alive!!!"

Yeah well. Here comes science and industry, fucking up your recommendations that we live within an artificial means that claims we ration electricity and don't produce anything and stratify society so we all have to share and can't own anything. Here comes ways to cheaply turn dirt into clean, nigh permanent objects, resources and infrastructure that used to require specialized and wasteful, pollutive processes to do.

There will be a time when either due to pollutionless manufacturing methods or extremely efficient and efficarious sequestration, we do not pollute our environments with industrial byproducts or waste, none of it enters our water tables, the air or the sea, and the only form of pollution you could theoretically attribute to humans would be our bodyheat, the air we exhale, the urea and sweat, and the methane from our farts.

Even now, they rebuke, "Eco-fascists" of the past that were just leftists that took action in the name of the climate and the environment, and declared them to be right wing, white supremacist misanthroopes. Yeah, right. Like the fucking dingbats filming themselves crying about destroyed trees and chaining themselves to them to prevent logging in enormous performative histrionic displays were fucking TRUMP SUPPORTERS. And they declare the people that were talking about the third world polluters are just "white supremacist" to be eugenicist.

When all that's left of human pollution is our bodyheat, waste from our lungs and our colons, will people scream about how Europeans and specifically ONLY the white westerners needs to curb how many babies they have to prevent overpopulation? Or will they step on that third rail and dare set themselves up to be rebuked as racist by the next generation version of themselves for suggestion parts of Africa, the Middle East and Asia take measure not to overpopulate?

I already know they're going to yell about how eliminating beef and pork would somehow prevent climate change, because of the methane of meat based digestive processes. Except, the methane produced from eating beef also fits into the natural carbon cycle of the planet. And chickens have a near inert effect of the climate and pollution of ANY kind, so all they'd be doing is strengthening the argument for raising chicken- And they DON'T want to do that, they want to eliminate the end-user ability to grow their own food.

Plus with the ways to virtually eliminate methane from farts by adding certain strains of sea algae to sheep, cow and goats diets, it doesn't matter how many head of cattle or sheep you have.

Once our electric motors lack rare earths and are as renewable and sustainable and universal as surface dirt, our textiles are biodegradable, our building materials are sustainable, our plastics can inertly break down harmlessly and the heavy sediments or chemical waste we make is minimized to nothing and managed to harmlessness, there won't BE anything humans individually or our civilizations do that negatively affect the climate.

There will only be climate change, irrespective of human developmental activities. And they won't be able to attribute "capitalism" to it, or demand redistribution of the wealth over it.

[newbusinessideas]

How to Start a Biodegradable Plastic Bags Manufacturing Business

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[himebushou]

For @chippuyon! Because this ask you answered made me go a bit emo, lol (warnings for violence and character death).

Survivor

Two months after the world ends, the new year opens with more explosions, flares crackling and hissing as they soar through the sky, unravelling darkness, peeling it apart with claws that are red, pink and blue.  Rei watches the spectacle impassively.  One hand is curled around a celebratory drink – the other forced its way through clusters of dead flowers to grip the balcony railing.

Was Miri allowed to stay up late?  Is she sitting safely on her mama’s lap or being cradled by her grandmother?  Is Miri’s grandfather kissing the top of her head?  Have the family made plans to go somewhere special to give thanks?  What will Miri wear?  What sweets will she eat to usher in 2024?

And what wishes would Kazuki have made, were he still alive? 

“Here’s the latest,” says Kugi Kyuutarou, passing a set of materials across the counter.  “He had the sense to leave Japan for a while, but he’s back now, wrapping up business in Nagaoka.  I estimate that you have a three-day window.”

“That’s more than enough,” Rei returns.  “Thanks as always, Kyuutarou-san.”

Kyuutarou tips his head back – studies Rei silently.  Finally, Kyuutarou asks, “How long will you continue?  You’ve already sent a message.  Sooner or later, someone will decide that it’s time to retaliate –”

“Then it’s kill or be killed,” finishes Rei.  He sips his sugary tea, gaze fixed on the seat to his left.  Mercifully, Kyuutarou falters.

It’s funny, Rei thinks as he makes the journey home.  He never realised before that he always sat on Kazuki’s right whenever they were at the Mistletoe Café – Rei closest to the door, poised to drag Kazuki to safety in case there was an attack.  And, he notes, he did the same at home, too – always sat in the same spot at the dining table, eyes trained on the door, prepared to dispatch any intruders who broke in.

A black cat pads into view and rubs its squashed face against his ankles.

“I have nothing to offer you.”

The cat purrs, refusing to believe.

Nagaoka takes half a day.  Less than that, maybe.  It turns out that the tried-and-tested tactic of shooting from the front still carries its weight; there’s no need to devote energy to memorising building schematics – not when people are stupid, predictable.  The hitman has the wherewithal to plead with Rei, ask the new boss to spare his life,  Before he can finish swearing his loyalty, Rei plants a bullet between those desperate eyes, bile coating his tongue, fire filling his throat, grief curdling his stomach.

Idiot Kazuki.  He’d always behaved as though he was more competent than his skills allowed, rejecting the idea that he specialised in plotting and planning and scheming, even on the occasions when Rei had pointedly said, “That’s your role.”  And so, the fool had turned his back on a target that wasn’t quite dead, leaving the choking Suwa Shigeki with ample opportunity to finish what he’d started.

Kill or be killed.  Rei had wanted to rip the mansion apart, brick by brick; Kyuutarou’d intervened at that point, saying that if Rei really wanted to expunge what was left of the Organisation, he’d need funds, he’d need assets – would have to rely on all of those things that it was supposed to be Kazuki’s job to take care of.

How selfish!

Without Kazuki, the house is a cesspit.

Takeaway boxes litter the living room, biodegradable containers interspersed with empty cans and cigarette butts.  Rei doesn’t know how the room gets in such a state (he only eats at the dining table, after all), but it’s beyond salvation now, and he’s consigned himself to the understanding that he’ll most likely die here someday, when someone finally loses patience and smashes through a glass pane to find Rei sleeping in what was once Kazuki’s room, the cold bathtub forgotten.  Oddly, the faintest hint of Miri and Kazuki’s fragrances still linger in that space and it’s comforting; it’s almost enough to make Rei tell himself that they’ll return from daycare at any moment, Miri armed with a new plasticine friend, a little safari creature she’ll insist likes eating mushrooms…

Kazuki will vacuum.  He will sweep the floor.  He will scold Rei for eating trash and living in trash; he’ll swap out the fries and pizzas for homemade soups and grilled fish.  Rei’s mouth waters.  Strange.  It’s bizarre to comprehend, at a time like this, just how much he loved the decadence of Kazuki’s cooking.

Rei puts on an apron.  Gloves.  Attacks the dining room first – sorts through cupboards, discards anything that’s expired.  His hair is tied back (these days, his hair is always tied back).  He’s making progress.  He’s making amends.  He’s –

Hopeless.

Under an array of cereal packets, Rei discovers a letter from their electricity supplier.  The payment’s overdue.  The correspondence is a threat and a reminder that Kazuki, unkind Kazuki, flaked out yet another thing that was his to take care of.

Is there a point anymore?

And if there is, why can’t he find it?

Killing and killing and killing, the targets lined up like clay pigeons… Kugi Kyuutarou expresses concern far too often for Rei’s liking.  Work is too easy but life is too hard and there is nothing in between.  Rei’s heart rises and falls, an arrow that shatters mid-flight.  Over and over again, men beg for his benevolence; they lean against the heart they know was stamped out of him, pray that they will be spared by the part of Rei’s psyche that makes him human.

Wednesday.  10 February, 2024.

Three swollen months.

Rei sits on the earth, cross-legged, and stares at Kazuki’s headstone for a while.  Kyuutarou had managed all the details – engravings, placing Kazuki next to his wife – all that sentimental stuff that Rei had never learnt to think about.

The cemetery is peaceful.  Birds twitter.  The wind breathes.  No one questions why Rei remains motionless for several hours…

Miri’s held in a deathly grip; her eyes are stretched and her mouth is hanging open.  “Rei Papa, save –”

Suwa Rei’s efficiency is unmatched.  He holds intricate knowledge of the human body, knows how to yield a fatality and how to allow a man to walk away.  He can strike a target from a distance of almost half a mile; he can zero in, splinter any bone of his choosing with a single bullet.  He does not waste ammunition.  And yet, years of training – years of discipline – desert Rei when he spies a sick, victorious grimace cross Ogino’s face.  Rei twists his arm, points his gun and shoots.

And shoots.

And shoots.

Keeps firing until Ogino’s features are unrecognisable – reload – keeps firing until he’s torn through each gap between Ogino’s ribs – reload – keeps firing until the tide thins, the bloody waves roaring in his ears drowning, turning into Miri’s screams.  Her pink sweater is soaked.  Her pale face and soft hair are flecked with crimson.

Rei sinks to his knees.  When Miri sobs into his neck, he can scarcely console her.

It’s over.

It’s dark.  Rei’s neck and shoulders hurt.   As he sits up, he scrapes his forehead and the tip of his nose against Kazuki’s headstone.  Ah.  Rei wonders if he’s scraped his skin.

He looks up at the stars.  They’re far away and they’re dead but they keep burning, fuelled by determination that they don’t deserve to possess.  They outnumber and outshine the moon.  And they have offered solace to billions, over the years, symbolising infinity, promising purpose.

Kazuki did his job, this time.  He made the world safe enough for Rei to sleep – to give Rei a chance to dream.

[lavishy]

From Viaggio (Italian for travel) collection designed by vegan brand LAVISHY established since 2001, this cool printed unisex key ring coin purse features vintage style illustration of elephant on the background of old map. It's fun, functional & fabulous. Made with Eco-friendly vegan materials that are toxic-free, recyclable and biodegradable. This unisex key ring coin purse is great for everyday use, travel as well as an unique gift for your friends and family. Exterior: Vegan/faux leather Interior: Nylon - with key ring to carry keys - 1 ID pocket at the back for driver's license or metro pass - can hold credit cards Measurement: 5 x 3.9 inch / 13 x 10 cm Wholesale available at www.lavishy.com to wide ranges of retailers including independent brick-and-mortar gift shops, clothing & fashion accessories boutiques, book stores, hotel/resort & airport/ferries gift stores, museum & botanical garden gift shops, flower shops & garden centers, online boutiques, & specialty retailers in Canada, USA & the rest of the world since 2001. Reasons for whey this unisex key ring coin purse is a wonderful lucky / good luck gift idea for your loved ones: The elephant with its trunk raised is indeed considered a symbol of luck and good fortune in various cultures, especially in Eastern societies such as India and Thailand. Here's why:

Strength and Power: Elephants are known for their immense strength and power. In many cultures, they symbolize strength, stability, and resilience. When depicted with their trunks raised, they are seen as asserting their strength and overcoming obstacles, which is considered fortunate.

Wisdom and Intelligence: Elephants are highly intelligent creatures, known for their problem-solving skills and strong social bonds. Their association with wisdom and intelligence adds to the symbolism of luck. It's believed that having the trunk up signifies wisdom and foresight.

Good Luck: In some cultures, the elephant's trunk is seen as a conduit for good luck and positive energy. When the trunk is raised, it is believed to be gathering positive energy and spreading it around, bringing good fortune to those nearby.

Fertility and Prosperity: The elephant is also associated with fertility and prosperity. In Hinduism, the elephant-headed god Ganesha is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the provider of prosperity. The raised trunk symbolizes fertility and abundance, making it a popular motif in Indian households and businesses.

Overall, the elephant with its trunk raised is considered a powerful symbol of luck, prosperity, wisdom, and protection in many cultures, making it a popular choice for decorative and symbolic purposes. 

[mydisenchantedeulogy]

True [Chapter One] The Invitation [Bakugou Katsuki]

Summary: Years after the war, Airi Usui is living abroad in America, helping people affected by conflict and natural disasters. She thinks nothing of her former life until an old friend suddenly contacts her. Class A is having a reunion, but Airi is not sure she wants to go, especially after she ended her long-term relationship with Katsuki Bakugou and is nervous about seeing him again.

Will this reunion change her life for the better? Or send her spiraling back into another long year of therapy?

A/n: I'll try to update this story once a week if I'm able to. This idea has been eating at me for a while.

Airi Usui is a character created by me from a previous account that I used to manage. The character of Kairi Kirishima was created by Angelleap77 on AO3, who allowed me to use her. Please enjoy.

Warning(s): OC, aged-up characters, anxiety, reunion, post-breakup, natural disasters.

A new dawn had come and the town of Falmore Tennessee began to slowly heal.

Airi, a woman in her twenties, wobbled down the sidewalk, toting a case of biodegradable bottled water in her arms. She could feel the heat of the midsummer sun beating down on her, but despite the humid weather, and her desire to escape indoors, she still had much to do. 

This time last year, a tornado ranked EF-4 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale touched down in Falmore. The damage, Airi remembered, was horrific. Miles of homes and small businesses had been uprooted and reduced to rubble, seeming more like a landfill than a small rural town. 

As soon as she and ‘Synergos’ (synergy), the organization she worked with arrived, Airi knew the project would be massive. Together with the civil servants of Falmore, they began the clean-up. Then came the rebuilding stage. 

It was impressive in a year what together they had accomplished, Airi noted. Falmore had risen from the ashes like a phoenix into something new; something stronger. Houses were rebuilt. People began to come together and the wreckage soon took shape into an artistic environment with a Southern charm. It was lovely. But there was still work to be done. 

With the case in hand, Airi took it to the site of a local business; Creekview Cafe. It had been uprooted in the tornado, one of the last mom-and-pop restaurants down the several-mile stretch in which the tornado had traveled. She sat the case down on a wooden bench near the growing foundation, then wiped the sweat from her face with a faded rag that she kept in the back pocket of her jeans. 

“Hot day, ain't it?” Asked Samuel Miller as he approached, taking out a pocket knife to cut himself a bottle from the case. 

He was the owner's son. A robust man who easily towered over Airi. 

“I should be used to it,” she admitted. “June and July in Japan are comparable, though I admit I've become a little spoiled driving around everywhere with the AC on.” 

The difference was, in Japan, she either walked or rode the train, having to deal with the heat head-on. Or the cold given the season. 

Samuel guffawed, then raised his bottle. 

“Thanks for the water, Airi.”

She ignored the fact he had mispronounced her name - Air-ee as opposed to Eye-ree - and smiled. It became clear when she first moved to America as an Aid Worker that few would pronounce her name right. After a while, she stopped correcting them.

“Think you can give us a little rain with that Quirk of yours? The season has been a little dry,” He added. 

“I'd like to,” Airi retorted. “But unfortunately it doesn't work like that.” 

Her Quirk, ‘Shape of Water’, was in simple terms just mere water telekinesis. She could move, manipulate, or otherwise interact with matter using water, but she could not naturally will the clouds to produce rain. Drawing water from the air was the closest she could do, but nothing on an advanced scale, not without consequences.

Motioning with her hand, the water lifted from his bottle and mocked her gesture, spinning into a sphere as she rotated her finger through the air. 

“I can't make it rain, but I can soak you head to toe if you want.”

Samuel snorted. 

“Nah, I reckon I'll manage just as.” 

Airi smiled widely, then returned the water to the bottle. She thought so. Samuel returned to his task of helping with the restaurant soon after, leaving her to wander the town. For hours, she aided anyone who needed her, mostly fetching cases of water and attending to anyone showing signs of heat stroke. She was no construction worker, but there were small acts of kindness she could offer. It was her job after all. 

As darkness fell and the street lamps came on, the workers retired to their homes for the night. Those without such accommodations went to the community center, one of the first shelters built. While Airi could afford to stay in a hotel room, she chose to stay at the center to save money. It was easier to help out, providing meals and comfort to those who needed it. 

Aside from the public showers and the fully stocked kitchen, there was a common area, which Airi had to pass through as she strode through the doors. The walls were painted sage, a color that some claimed provided them with comfort and lined with pictures of the town before and after the tornado. Nostalgia, she assumed. In addition, there were also three rooms total; A, B, and C; meant for events and birthday parties, however at the time, they were being used as temporary housing. 

Airi took up residence in room B. When she first came to Falmore, she was living cot to cot with her team and the citizens of the town. The entire population, more or less, was packed like a can of sardines. But with multiple teams working around the clock, some with a multitude of useful Quirks, the numbers soon dwindled as houses were built, followed by several small businesses and a hotel. 

More than a handful of people were still homeless, however. But in another three months or so, Airi hoped to see those numbers diminish. 

Quietly, so as not to disturb anyone who might already be asleep, she crept into the dimly lit room and over to her cot. Her muscles screamed in protest for her to rest, but covered in grime and sweat, Airi yearned for a shower. She gathered a to-go bag prepared earlier with extra clothes and bath products in it, then collected her phone, which had been put away.

On her way to the showers, she cut it on, watching as a multitude of notifications popped up on the screen. It was no surprise that her mother had sent her a message, she always did to see how she was doing. But what shocked her was the voice message waiting in her inbox; a message from someone she had not heard from in years.

Eager to see what Izuku wanted, Airi clicked on the message and lifted the phone to her ear. 

“Hey, Airi. It's Izuku,” the voice informed her. She involuntarily smiled. “Um…so I don't know if you are too busy or not, or if you are still in the States, but I did it. I managed to plan a reunion, with Ashido's help. In a week, the majority of our graduating class is going to be in Japan. If you can make it, let me know. I hope you–”

Before he could finish, the message cut out. He ran out of time. Airi paused, standing in the hall with her phone still pressed to her ear as though at any moment, she would hear Izuku's voice again. But he was not going to say anything. She sighed, feeling a little melancholy. Saying she missed him would be an understatement; she truly did miss her friends. Katsuki especially. 

The last time she spoke to him, things did not end well. How could they? Especially since she broke off her relationship with him. No, she did not do it because she wanted to, or because her feelings for him changed, but the long distance and the conflicting schedules were slowly adding tension to their relationship. Airi had no other choice. At least, she told herself. 

A pang of guilt washed over her, a sentiment she thought she had long since swallowed down. Hearing Izuku's voice brought up so many repressed memories and emotions. It made her feel a little dizzy. Airi clutched her phone and took a few deep, soothing breaths. 

There was a reason she moved on, the trauma was eating at her, and though she would love to reunite with her friends, she was scared of what feelings seeing them would dredge up. 

It was a shame she was too busy. Her work was a good enough excuse, she hoped.

–

In the days that followed, after the voice message, Airi felt conflicted. She was starting to feel bad about her decision, though a part of her was mad at Izuku for reaching out to her. It was terribly unlike her to point fingers, especially when the reason for the issue was because of her. She was wracked with apprehension, and her work ethic was starting to take a toll. 

“Airi. Hey…Airi.”

Jerking in fear, as though she had been physically shocked, Airi darted her eyes around so fast, that they stung in protest. She saw Akinori Chibana, a male with shaggy neon blue hair standing beside her in the common area of the center. He was the project manager, a foreigner, who like her, came from Japan. 

“Are you OK?” He asked, staring at her in worry. 

“I zoned out again, didn't I?” Airi asked. She took an uneasy breath, knowing that she had. 

Annoyed with herself, she ran her fingers through her short sea-green hair, lightly tugging at the wavy strands. It happened to her a lot lately. She was lost.  

“I'm sorry.”

“It's fine,” Akinori assured her. “Look, if something is bothering you, I'm here to listen.”

Airi appreciated his offer. She knew a part of the reason he suggested it was because it was his job, but on the other hand, he was a kind person. She hated to unload on him like this. 

“I heard from an old friend recently. There's going to be a reunion back home and he wants me to attend.”

Akinori hummed. 

“Oh. A reunion sounds nice.”

Once again, she was overcome with guilt. He did not know how much of a blow to the stomach his words were to her. She frowned. 

“Yeah, it does.” 

Taking her grief the wrong way, Akinori placed his hand on her shoulder. 

“You should go if you want. It will be another five to ten years before there is another one if there is a chance for one.” 

“I know. It's just that–”

Akinori interrupted her. 

“If it's about the expenses, I can pitch in.”

It was not about the expenses, she could afford a round-trip ticket. It was about going home. She let him know that she appreciated his offer, forcing a smile.

“I'm nervous is all.” 

Nervous was a loose term. She went through months of therapy to overcome her trauma after the events of her first year at U.A. High. It was why she chose the role of savior instead of fighter; the reason she ran when she had the chance; the reason she ended things with Katsuki. 

To return would be awkward. She was scared her friends would not want to see her again. 

“You know…I admire you Airi,” Akinori admitted. “I was ecstatic when you joined Synergos. I mean you graduated from the hero course. Going home is a walk in the park to someone like you.” 

Her face heated up. She knew what he was trying to do, but it was not so simple. Still, it made her feel a little better. He was right. If only the voice in her head was not conspiring against her. 

“If you aren't comfortable, don't go, but if you want to see them, now is the chance. Don't let it slip through your fingers,” Akinori stated. 

He gave Airi a gentle pat on the shoulder, then left the common area, returning to work. She stood next to the door a moment longer, kicked the toe of her boot on the tiled floor, and then reluctantly reached into her pocket for her cell phone. She was going to call Izuku back. There was no way she was going to think too much about it. If she did, she was scared that she would give in to her fear. 

I can do this. Just call him…come on. 

Airi hesitantly made the call, pressing her phone to her ear, but Izuku did not answer. She was redirected to his voicemail and prompted to leave a message. Her throat felt dry as she heard his voice, and then the line beeped and grew quiet. She considered hanging up then, but she pressed on.

“Hey…it's Airi.” Her voice was broken and hoarse. “You can count me in. I'll see you at the reunion.”

She quickly hung up and then took a deep, uneasy breath. Her body shook in apprehension. There was no turning back now.

[greenlifeinsights]

The Green Revolution: How Eco-Friendly Technology is Changing the Game

Welcome back to GreenLife Insight, your go-to source for all things eco-conscious living! In our previous blogs, we delved into the healing wonders of ecotherapy and offered you 10 simple ways to kickstart your sustainable journey. Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of eco-friendly technology and how it's reshaping our planet for the better.

The Age of Eco-Tech

Solar panels have become a symbol of clean energy and reduced carbon footprint.

In the past decade, we've witnessed an incredible surge in eco-conscious technology. From solar panels adorning rooftops to electric vehicles silently gliding through our streets, the age of eco-tech is upon us. It's not just about gadgets; it's a movement that promises a greener, healthier future for our planet.

Solar Energy: Powering the Sustainable Way

Solar farms are harnessing the power of the sun to generate clean energy.

Solar energy is at the forefront of this revolution. Solar panels, which convert sunlight into electricity, have become increasingly accessible to homeowners and businesses alike. They reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, lower electricity bills, and help combat climate change.

Electric Vehicles: Driving Towards a Greener Tomorrow

Electric cars are not only efficient but also eco-friendly, producing zero tailpipe emissions.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are another key player in the eco-tech revolution. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, reduce air pollution, and are quieter than traditional cars. With advancements in battery technology, range anxiety is becoming a thing of the past.

Smart Homes: Effortless Sustainability

Smart homes use technology to optimize energy consumption, reducing waste.

The concept of smart homes is also gaining traction. These homes use technology to optimize energy consumption, reducing waste and lowering utility bills. From smart thermostats that learn your preferences to energy-efficient appliances, every aspect of daily life can now be eco-conscious.

The Power of Sustainable Innovation

Innovators are continually developing eco-friendly tech solutions to combat climate change.

Innovation is the driving force behind this green revolution. Engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs are constantly developing new solutions to combat climate change. From wind farms to biodegradable materials, the possibilities are endless.

Join the Movement

The green revolution is in full swing, and you can be a part of it. Embrace eco-friendly technology, reduce your carbon footprint, and help preserve the planet for future generations. Stay tuned to GreenLife Insight for more insights into sustainable living and the latest in eco-tech.

Remember, the future is green, and together, we can make a world of difference.

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I hope you enjoyed this blog post about the exciting developments in eco-friendly technology. If you have any questions or would like more information about any of the topics discussed, please feel free to leave a comment below. Your feedback and ideas are always welcome! Stay tuned for more GreenLife Insight blogs coming your way soon.