#solar based drinking water systems

[theblogs2024]

A Solar-run reverse osmosis technique for top recovery of freshwater from saline groundwater

Desalination of groundwater is important in arid locations which can be distant from both equally seawater and freshwater assets. Appealing functions of a groundwater desalination program incorporate a large Restoration ratio, Procedure from the sustainable Strength supply like photo voltaic, and substantial water output per device of energy and land. Here we propose a new procedure that works by using a photo voltaic-Rankine cycle to drive reverse osmosis (RO). The Functioning fluid such as steam is expanded versus an influence piston that actuates a pump piston which in turn pressurises the saline water As a result passing it through RO membranes. A reciprocating crank mechanism is utilized to equalise the forces involving The 2 pistons. The choice of batch method in preference to ongoing move permits utmost Electricity Restoration and negligible concentration polarisation inside the vicinity on the RO membrane. This research analyses the sizing and effectiveness with the crank mechanism, quantifies Vitality losses from the RO separation and predicts the general overall performance. As an example, a program using a industry of linear Fresnel collectors occupying 1000 m2 of land and raising steam at 200 °C and 15.five bar could desalinate 350 m3/day from saline h2o that contains 5000 ppm of sodium chloride using a recovery ratio of 0.7.

Salinity of soil and groundwater is really a popular trouble taking place across all inhabited continents [one]. Significant parts of land lie previously mentioned brackish groundwater, especially in the earth's arid and semi-arid regions. From the absence of rain, desalination of groundwater will be the only way to offer freshwater for inland regions. Illustrations of countries the place groundwater desalination programs are now utilised consist of Australia, Egypt, India, Israel, Jordan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and The usa.

Just like seawater, the desalination of groundwater demands Electricity which is typically supplied from fossil gasoline sources. The need to fulfill the escalating desire for h2o, although minimizing the environmental affect connected to the usage of this kind of Power, causes it to be crucial to improve the effectiveness of the desalination approach also to get bigger benefit of renewable energies for example photo voltaic.

Lots of photo voltaic-pushed desalination technologies happen to be studied and a number of other are implemented [2]. Most drop into considered one of two types: (i) thermal distillation processes or (ii) non-thermal membrane separation procedures including electro-dialysis and reverse osmosis (RO). In the main group, solitary result photo voltaic stills can offer only a few litres of h2o for every square metre of captured sunlight on a daily basis even though various result photo voltaic stills might deliver tens of litres for each square metre [3].

Reverse osmosis is generally viewed as one of the most Electrical power successful means of desalination. It calls for mechanical work, instead of warmth, as input. The vast majority of solar-RO plants that were built up to now use photovoltaic (PV) arrays to supply this do the job [four]. Such as, Richards et al. [five] have claimed trials in Australia with a system creating about 0.five m3/working day of freshwater from groundwater in a salinity of 3000 ppm, utilizing a 0.26 kWp generator occupying an area of two m2. This corresponds to 250 l/m2 daily, which happens to be an get of magnitude previously mentioned that readily achievable with photo voltaic stills. This sort of know-how depending on PV is reliable and easy to carry out, but does not take advantage of significant economies or efficiencies of scale. As a result, the largest system reported gave an output of only seventy six m3 a day [4], [six]. In distinction, desalination plants run by regular fuels exist with outputs above one hundred 000 m3 a day.

In place of PV, photo voltaic-thermal power plant could possibly be used to deliver the get the job done required to travel the RO procedure. So far, even so, hardly any this sort of crops have already been manufactured. Notably, the just one made at El Hamrawin in Egypt in 1981 reportedly created one hundred thirty l a day for each m2 of solar collector, when fed with brackish drinking water of salinity 3000 ppm [seven]. This plant applied the Rankine cycle, with Freon-eleven since the Operating fluid. Freon-eleven can be an ozone depleting substance now banned underneath the Montreal Protocol. A lot more a short while ago, García-Rodriguez and Delgado-Torres have offered calculations for Rankine cycle–RO techniques employing a variety of alternative Functioning fluids [8]. They predict distinct solar Vitality consumptions ranging from 32 to 95 MJ/m3 (8.nine to 26 kWh/m3) which, according to a valuable irradiation of five kWh/m2 on a daily basis (18 MJ/m2 each day) would give water outputs per collector region of a hundred ninety to 560 l/m2 on a daily basis. A lot of the Functioning fluids they think about, for example benzene and toluene, are poisonous while others such as siloxanes are more benign but less available. The schematic of The everyday photo voltaic-Rankine–RO technique analyzed by Individuals authors is reproduced in Fig. one.

Most photo voltaic-thermal energy crops in use nowadays, like the ones located in California's Mojave Desert, are determined by the steam Rankine cycle and deliver electrical power that's fed into the grid. The potential of coupling to desalination devices is examined and could be executed Sooner or later [9]. In distinction to PV, on the other hand, steam electrical power plant is a lot more successful and affordable at large scales, ordinarily > ten MW electrical output, which if used for desalination by RO would lead to h2o outputs of ten 000 m3/day or more. Despite the advancement of interest in solar-run desalination, there remains to be a lack of demonstrated and viable remedies at the intermediate scale of around 50 to 5000 m3/working day. For groundwater sources specifically, such scales are wanted because, as opposed to the sea, specific wells and aquifers have restricted potential to feed desalination crops.

Groundwater is typically fewer saline than seawater. On this account, the Vitality requirement for desalination by RO is decreased. However, desalination of groundwater is if possible operated at superior Restoration ratio. This is often to stop losing cherished groundwater also to minimise the volume of concentrated brine rejected, the disposal of which poses an environmental dilemma. Superior Restoration has a tendency to demand superior Strength inputs thus partly offsetting the Electricity preserving in the reduce feed salinity. This trade off is illustrated by the next conventional equation for the thermodynamic minimum amount Electrical power E needed to Recuperate a quantity V of freshwater from saline feed drinking water getting an osmotic stress of Posmf in a recovery ratio

Next this quick discussion, we could propose the next perfect necessities of a photo voltaic-powered RO procedure for brackish groundwater: - Low particular photo voltaic Power intake and thus higher h2o output for each place of solar collector and of land occupied - Higher Restoration ratio - Avoidance of poisonous, environmentally damaging or scarcely offered Performing fluids (water or air are great fluids Within this regard) - Usage of commonly obtainable products, parts and producing procedures Therefore favouring cheap and superior availability - Viability for the intermediate scale of 50 to 5000 m3 water output.

With the goal of meeting these prerequisites, this paper places forward a whole new concept of solar-driven RO according to the steam Rankine cycle. The precise goal will be to analyse the concept to discover the performance and output in relation to the design and working parameters. Examples of technique models will be outlined. Note that no experiment has yet been completed, but it is meant this Investigation will notify upcoming experimentation and progress.

Very first the rationale and notion of the design will probably be defined with reference towards the shortcomings of the existing approaches that use the Rankine cycle.

2. Current strategies coupling the Rankine cycle to RO A principal drawback in utilizing the steam Rankine cycle at lesser scales (e.g. < one MW shaft output) may be the inefficiency of little steam turbines, which results from blade friction reduction and leakage reduction [ten]. To stop these losses, the steam could possibly be expanded using a piston rather than a turbine. The moment this method is adopted, it really is logical to omit the move of converting the linear movement with the steam electric power piston to continuous rotary motion from the pump. Rather, a so-called steam pump can be made use of, by which the steam energy piston is coupled on to the piston of a reciprocating pump. Regular models of steam pump are described, for instance, in reference [eleven]. Even so, a issues with steam pumps is that the drive furnished by the ability piston varies because the piston moves as a result of its cycle. To overcome this issue, Childs et al. have described a hydraulic device so as to add to or subtract from the power output and therefore compensate for such cyclic versions in force [12]. This paper sets out a simpler strategy, through which the problem of various forces is triumph over by mechanical suggests.

One more feature with the idea proposed Here's the chance to push a batch-intelligent RO approach, that's in basic principle essentially the most Electrical power-effective strategy for functioning RO. The benefit of the batch-clever Procedure over the more frequent ongoing circulation operation is usually described in terms of the concentrations of salt within the liquid at distinct positions inside the RO module of Fig. one. Given that the saline water passes throughout the module, drinking water is eliminated and also the greater concentration causes amplified osmotic force for the outlet, therefore raising the Electricity wanted for the method. Inside the batch approach, nonetheless, focus is saved Nearly uniform through the system at Every single instant in time and wastage of Strength due to concentration gradients Within the procedure is consequently minimised.

3. The notion Fig. two illustrates the essence of The brand new thought. The steam (or other Performing fluid) is equipped from photo voltaic collectors to an growth cylinder and expands against a piston (often called the facility piston). This piston drives a next piston (referred to as the pump piston) that's utilized to pressurise saline h2o versus the semi-permeable membrane that enables freshwater to move even though retaining the salt. To circumvent accumulation of salts near the surface from the membrane (ie. focus polarisation) a means of stirring the answer close to the membrane is included.

Down load : Down load full-size impression Fig. 2. Essential attributes in the proposed new principle. A power piston drives the pump piston by way of a coupling mechanism. The pump piston pressurises saline drinking water from the semi-permeable membrane. The notional stirrer decreases focus polarisation near the membrane. As the facility piston developments to the correct, the driving force available diminishes, while that wanted for the reverse osmosis method will increase. (This can be illustrated by the two p–V graphs). To match these forces, the coupling system need to supply a little by little expanding mechanical gain.

four. Analysis The Evaluation focuses on the calculation of losses that can induce the output to get less than that indicated by Eq. (one). For example, nevertheless the crank system will Enhance the matching of forces between the two pistons, It's not confirmed the crank motion is The perfect 1 needed for optimum effectiveness: there may be some Strength losses from any remaining mismatch. Additional losses take place within the RO system by itself. Every one of these losses will likely be estimated In this particular segment, next which drinking water outputs for The complete technique such as photo voltaic collector will likely be believed. Notice that sure losses which include friction from the crank system usually are not taken under consideration, as these are not intrinsic to your strategy and could be minimised by very careful layout.

To know more details visit here: solar based water treatment plant

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - September 8-14

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my new(ly repurposed) Patreon!

1. Pair of rare Amur tiger cubs debuting at Minnesota Zoo are raising hopes for the endangered species

“[The Minnesota Zoo’s] Amur tigers have produced 57 cubs, [… 21 of which] have gone on to produce litters of their own, amounting to another 86 cubs. […] “They’re showing a lot of resiliency, which is something that we work hard for in human care. We want these animals to have a lot of confidence and be able to adapt to new environments just as they’re doing today.””

2. Powered by renewable energy, microbes turn CO₂ into protein and vitamins

“The team designed a two-stage bioreactor system that produces yeast rich in protein and vitamin B9. [… The protein] levels in their yeast exceed those of beef, pork, fish, and lentils. […] Running on clean energy and CO2, the system reduces carbon emissions in food production. It uncouples land use from farming, freeing up space for conservation[… and] will help farmers concentrate on producing vegetables and crops sustainably.”

3. JCPenney Launches Apparel Collection Aimed At Wheelchair Users

“A major department store is rolling out a new line of clothing specifically tailored to meet the needs of women who use wheelchairs featuring options for both everyday wear and special occasions. [… The clothing have] modifications like zippers located for easy access, pocket positioning and extended back rises optimized for the seated position and shorter sleeves to limit interference with wheels.”

4. Snails bred in Edinburgh Zoo sent to re-populate species in French Polynesia

“Thousands of rare partula snails bred at Edinburgh Zoo are to be released in French Polynesia to restore the wild population of the species.The last surviving few of the species were rescued in the early 1990s[….] 15 species and sub-species [are being bred in zoos for repopulation], the majority of which are classed as extinct in the wild.”

5. [NH Joins 19 Other States] to Provide Essential Behavioral Health Services Through Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams

“[CMS] approved New Hampshire’s Medicaid State Plan Amendment for community-based mobile crisis intervention teams to provide services for people experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder crisis. […] The multidisciplinary team provides screening and assessment; stabilization and de-escalation; and coordination with and referrals to health, social, and other services, as needed.”

6. Recovery plan for Missouri population of eastern hellbender

“It is expected that recovery efforts for the Missouri DPS of the eastern hellbender will reduce sedimentation and improve water quality in the aforementioned watersheds, which will also improve drinking water, as well as benefit multiple federally listed mussels, sport fish and other aquatic species.”

7. How $7.3B will help rural co-ops build clean power—and close coal plants

“[The funds are] serving about 5 million households across 23 states [… to] build wind and solar power, which is now cheaper than coal-fired power across most of the country. […] Some of it will be used to pay down the cost of closing coal plants[….] federal funding could help co-ops secure enough wind, solar, and battery resources to retire their entire coal capacity by 2032, cutting carbon emissions by 80 to 90 percent and reducing wholesale electricity costs by 10 to 20 percent[….]”

8. Native-led suicide prevention program focuses on building community strengths

“[Indigenous researchers have] designed programs that aim to build up a community’s endemic strengths, rather than solely treating the risks facing individuals within that community. By providing support and resources that enable access to Alaska Native cultural activities, they hope to strengthen social bonds that build resilience. […] “In a Yup’ik worldview, suicide is not a mental health disorder, and it’s not an individual affliction, it’s a disruption of the collective.””

9. Another rare Javan rhino calf spotted at Indonesia park

“A new Javan rhino calf has been spotted in an Indonesian national park, the facility's head said Friday, further boosting hopes for one of the world's most endangered mammals after two other […] calves were spotted earlier this year at the park, which is the only habitat left for the critically endangered animal.”

10. Transparent solar cells can directly supply energy from glass surfaces

“[Researchers have] unveiled a method of supplying energy directly from glass of buildings, cars, and mobile devices through transparent solar cells. […] It has also succeeded in charging a smartphone using natural sunlight. It also proved the possibility that a screen of a small mobile device can be used as an energy source.”

September 1-7 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[reasonsforhope]

"In drought-stricken areas, communities facing water shortages, or even in residential and commercial buildings eager to improve their environmental footprints, atmospheric water generators represent a new frontier in water production.

While it might sound like a tidbit from a science fiction movie, even the driest places on earth have moisture in the air that can be extracted and used for everyday necessities like plumbing and drinking. 

Unlike traditional dehumidifiers, which also pull moisture from the air, AWGs utilize filtration and sterilization technology to make water safe to drink. 

And while there are plenty of AWG companies out there — and the science itself isn’t novel — AWGs are becoming more efficient, affordable, and revolutionary in combating water scarcity in a myriad of communities.

Aquaria Technologies, a San Francisco-based AWG startup, was founded in 2022 to help provide affordable and clean drinking water in areas most affected by climate change. 

Using heat exchange and condensation, Aquaria’s generators draw air into their systems, cool that air below its dew point, and as it condenses, capture that water and filter it for consumption. 

As the cycle continues, the generator’s refrigerant vaporizes and goes through a process that cools it back into a liquid, meaning the heat transfer cycle repeats continuously in an energy-efficient and self-sustaining system.

“I’m sure you’ve had the experience in the summer, you take a glass of a cold drink out of the fridge and then water droplets form on the side of the bottle,” Aquaria’s co-founder and CEO Brian Sheng, said in a podcast episode. “That’s actually condensation.”

Sheng continued: “The question is, how do we create condensation? How do we extract water out of the air in large volume and using little energy? That’s what our technology does. We have created both active and passive cooling methods where we use special materials, and we’ve created heat exchange and recovery systems and airflow design, such that we’re maximizing heat exchange, and then we’re able to extract large volumes of water.”

Aquaria has created a number of generators, but its stand-alone model — the Hydropack X — can replace an entire home’s dependence on municipal water, producing as much as 264 gallons of potable water per day. 

Other models, like the Hydrostation, can provide water for up to 1,500 people at parks, construction sites, or other outdoor public areas. The Hydropixel can make 24 gallons of water per day for a seamless at-home application, requiring a simple outlet for power. 

“Atmospheric water generators present a groundbreaking solution to the global challenge of clean water scarcity, leveraging the humidity present in the air to produce potable water,” the company’s website explains.

“This technology is versatile, functioning efficiently across diverse climates — from arid regions to tropical settings. From rural communities in developing countries to advanced cities facing unexpected droughts, atmospheric water generators have a wide range of applications… transforming lives and providing secure, clean water sources.”

Considering an estimated 2.2 billion people lack access to clean water globally — including in American cities like Flint, Michigan, or Modesto, California — innovative solutions like AWGs are vital to maintaining the basic human right to clean water. 

The World Economic Forum has begun to dip its toes into this technology as well, implementing public and private partnerships to introduce AWG units in Arizona’s Navajo Nation, where the machines produce about 200 gallons of clean water per day.

“When combined with an appropriate level of community engagement and triple-bottom-line business (people, planet, profit),” a blog post for WE Forum said, “this model can be a powerful stopgap solution where few exist today.”

Similarly, according to New Atlas, Aquaria has a partnership with developers to supply its technology to a 1,000-home community in Hawaii later this year, relying entirely on atmospherically generated water.

The company also has a “Frontier Access Program,” which partners with water-related NGOs, community project developers, and sustainable development groups to deploy this technology in areas most in need.

Regardless of their use cases — in homes, in communities facing water shortages, or at aid sites navigating natural disasters — AWGs have a minimal environmental impact. Sourcing water “from thin air,” requires no plastic bottles, no large-scale plants using up loads of energy, and no byproducts that can harm the environment."

-via GoodGoodGood, August 27, 2024

[black-lake]

self care based on your chart

I talked about the signs and houses connection to body parts and many of you requested this post. These are ways to do your self-care using your chart, the signs, and planetary placements and aspects. The same concept can be applied using simple self-love practices in other areas of life too.

✧ notes 

I recommend you look at your transits chart or solar return as well to better know the best self-care practices at the time. You can base your general self-care on your natal chart but the transits can tell you the best times to take action or avoid taking action on something significant. 

Look for the planets placements and their aspects, mainly if in the angular houses or make many significant aspects. Like I mentioned before I got so much dental work done when saturn was in the 10th, conjunct my mc and opposite north node, it was expensive but I was able to afford it.

You can also consider the degrees if you're feeling extra, in your natal chart and your solar return. Degrees can be associated with signs, so they can be simply linked to the areas they rule.

Planets rule things related to body parts like diseases or accidents and influence certain parts of the body depending on the aspects they make. Also two planets can influence the same body parts.

✧ SIGNS 

Aries/1st house - head, face, brain, eyes 

— Prone to headaches so get quality sleep, wash your hair often, and do wash your makeup, nothing heavy on the head. Exercise and workout in general helps release any pent-up energy or stress. Take good care of your eyes, sunglasses, eye drops, natural eye products/makeup. Keep your brain healthy. Foods and supplements that regulate your energy levels. Head massages, soft pillows, facemasks, frequent haircuts, breathing exercises, get enough brain oxygen. Fast thinkers and can have racing thoughts, so journaling, running, meditating can help. Release anger in healthy ways.

Taurus/2nd house - neck, ears, throat, thyroid 

— The senses can be heightened so make sure your environment is comfortable, the temperature, the sounds, scents, fabrics, the food, arrange it like it's a visions board. Coffee, tea, warm soups, breads and oats, and warm herbal drinks that work for you. Can cling to that one thing they like, so do change your diet from time to time to get different nutrient. Renew your clothes, make your space cozy. Neck massages, aromatherapy, and body relaxation methods. Singing or writing, chill playlists, comfy places and peaceful walks. Cooking your own food can be therapeutic and healing for you. 

Gemini/3rd house - arms, hands, lungs, shoulders 

— Tend to be anxious and restless, since it also rules the nervous system and is ruled by mercury, so the mind is central. Can't stress it enough, but writing,  journaling, speaking just getting your thoughts out. Since the mind is always active, look for ways to release that mental energy. Cardio, pilates, fast sports, board games, socialising. Can have fast metabolism and lean long body parts so accustom your diet and exercise based on that. Massage your shoulders, read a book, and do stretch regularly. Honestly..  joke around, taking all those thoughts seriously is no good. DO YO NAILLS 💅

Cancer/4th house - chest, breast, stomach, womb 

— Ruled by the moon, get a healthy outlet for your emotions, accept your emotions, write, speak up, cry when you need, watch something funny, your comfort show, make yourself laugh. Check your hormones regularly, find a good diet for stomach health, whole grains and high-fiber foods, take your digestive supplements. Do yoga, stomach exercises, breathing exercises. Drink lots of water. Choose your friends wisely, find people you trust. Make your bedroom comfy, invest in a quality bed, get yourself comfy clothes. Cooking your own food is again a self love thing to do, baking, homey places, nature and quiet places. Get you a furr baby.  

Leo/5th house - heart, spine, spinal column, upper back 

— Ruled by the sun, go out more and get your vitamin d. Choose heart-healthy foods, leafy greens and soluble fiber foods and supplements. Check your heart health and blood pressure. Do exercises that work for both your heart, your upper back and shoulders, aerobic exercises, fun sports and activities. You can be generous to everyone but be generous to yourself too, buy yourself gifts, spoil yourself. Do a full hair and skin routine, find a hobby, watch shows that inspire you, make your inner child happy. Embrace you emotions, your skills, pursue your passions, be expressive and go out for adventures.

Virgo/6th house - abdomen, digestive system, intestines, spleen

— Listen to your body and keep adjusting your diet and routine to fit your needs. Your body can be just as picky, so be mindful of the food you consume, of any allergies or foods that are hard to digest. Get your digestive supplements and enzymes, do your research. Choose gut-healthy foods and the best times to eat for you. Go for a nature walk, exercise to release any pent-up stress, cardio or pilates. Get indoors plants or plant them yourself. Spend time with pets. Make your own natural medicine that works for you, even if as simple as tea. Read a book, journal to organize your thoughts, keep your space clean. Reward yourself and acknowledge your efforts and progress. 

Libra/7th house - kidneys, lower back, bladder, buttocks

— Find a way to maintain a balanced lifestyle that works for you. Add a variety of nutrients to your diet, foods for healthy kidneys to make that skin glow, antioxidant foods and supplements. Keep your kidneys and bladder healthy. Lower body and buttocks exercises, strength training, dancing, going out for walks. Decorate and beautify your own place, try new recipes, go for a picnic. How you feel is more important than how you look, make yourself feel pretty, do a skincare routine, create a vision board, romanticize your life. Be the person you want to love and identify your own opinions from those of others, yours matter. 

Scorpio/8th house - genitals, colon, urethra, reproductive system

— With all those transformative energies, change what you consume to fulfill your changed needs, feeding your body and mind the proper nutrients. Maintain healthy reproductive organs and balanced hormones, do your check ups. Maintain healthy guts, fiber and antioxidant rich foods, high vitamin drinks, herbal medicine can be beneficial too. Lower body and muscle exercises, stretch regularly, breath and meditate to calm your mind. Invest in quality skincare and unscented hygiene products. Journal, write your reflections, your progress and goals, positive affirmations, light your great scented candles and watch a funny show. 

Sagittarius/9th house - thighs, hips, liver, legs

— Go out and wander around, exploring new places, foods, and random things will light you up, you know it. Find a diet that works for your energy levels, protein rich foods and shakes, citrus and greens, simple nutritious meals. Watch out for any leg injuries. Go out for running, do leg exercises, muscle building, any outdoors sports. Write a bucket list, update your wishes list, go for mini solo adventures, speak to the locals when you travel, learn new words, find authentic travel souvenirs. Listen to a podcast or watch a documentary, keep a positive outlook on your future, positive environment and self-talk.

Capricorn/10th house - bones, joints, knees, skin, hair

— Can get caught up in doing or not doing things, so allow yourself to both be active and rest when you need. Find foods and supplements that are good for bone strength and joint health, calcium and magnesium rich foods, going out and getting your vitamin d is good for both your skin and bones. Going for morning runs, muscle building workouts, chiropractic-approved exercises and stretches, any leg sports. Invest in skincare and dental care. Write down things like goals, tasks list, and self development notes. Watch things that motivate you and light you up, acknowledge how far you’ve come.

Aquarius/11th house - ankles, calfs, achilles, circulatory system 

— Can be very future focused, so do protect your hopes and find an outlet to express them but enjoy the present as it is. Add water-rich foods to your diet, foods that help the blood flow like fatty fish, avocados and other circulation boosters or supplements. Exercises that improve circulation like jogging, cycling, cardio, dancing, swimming. Find ways to express your ideas of the world and fantasies, music can put you in that creative energy, meditation, talking to a friend. Take a long bath, light some candles, write down your ideas, your hopes and dreams, your thoughts and what you're grateful for. 

Pisces/12th house - feet, toes, pineal gland, lymphatic system 

— Can also be spacey and future focused so any self expression activities can help that energy flow. Choose foods that help maintain your body fluid balance, water-rich foods, leafy veggies, omega 3 rich foods, and supplements that boost lymphatic drainage. Avoid foods that drain your lymphatic system. Find hobbies that light you up, listen to music, paint, be creative. Nature walks, swimming, cardio, cycling, dancing. Taking frequent baths and soaking your feet in soap and epsom salt water can release stress from the feet area, grounding activities, reflecting, journaling and writing down your hopes and thoughts.

✧ PLANETS

Sun - heart, head, spine, spinal cord, eyes — can influence vitality, heart function, headaches, fever, eyesight.. etc

Moon - stomach, breast, lungs, blood circulation, body fluids — can influence colds, blood flow, dehydration, stomach issues.

Mercury - nervous system, ears, mouth, skin — can influence ear problems, mental illness, restlessness, breathing issues.

Venus - face, cheeks, throat, bladder, skin —  can influence skin issues, bladder infections, throat issues, carbs and sugar balance. 

Mars - chest, muscles, blood, genitals — can influence accidents, wounds, muscles weakness, energy levels, genital diseases.

Jupiter - liver, kidneys, pancreas, thighs — can influence cholesterol issues, fatty liver, toxins overload, diabetes, kidneys issues.

Saturn - bones, teeth, hair, legs, joints, knees — can influence knee or joint problems, dental problems, wisdom teeth, bone diseases, hair loss.

Note that these are just suggestions that I hope remind you and inspire you to listen to your body and take good care of it, discern, do your research and take only what works for you. much love 🫶

[aishutoon]

The Housewarming Gift (A Sonic Prime Fanfic) - Chapter 1

(Decided to cross post the Housewarming Gift chapters I’ve written so far on tumblr. Hope you guys like it!)

The Grim was a quiet place.

No commotion from an overcrowded city, no roar of crashing waves, no screeches from any wildlife,

No noise, save for a gentle wind that blew every once in a while.

Just the way he liked it. 

After all, no noise meant no people, and no people meant no one to hurt him. No one who would corner him in an alleyway to beat him up, no one who would laugh as they stole his stuff and destroyed it just to see his reaction, no crowds who would whisper horrible things about him under their breath, just because he was different, just to feel a little better about themselves in that horrible city…

Zap!

Nine shot up, startled. The circuit board he was working on was letting off sparks where he accidentally broke a connection in the wrong place. Already, one of the alphas (alpha knuckles, it looked like) was working to stomp out the tiny fire that started when one of the sparks landed on some papers on the floor. “ Well, that was stupid…”

Ever since that final battle for the fate of the shatterverse, and the departure of everyone to their shatterspaces after making a promise to leave Nine alone, he had a lot of time on hands, and created many useful inventions since then. Even without the use of the paradox prism shards, there was still enough residual energy in the Grim to make the place more livable. While it wasn’t the paradise Nine initially envisioned, it was a home, and that was much more than he could say about his old place in New Yoke with those enforcer robots breathing down his neck. So far, he had created a plumbing system utilizing a huge lake he found a few miles away and a water purifier, a biosynthesizer so that he could make his own food (as a backup, he had a ton of canned food and drinks he stole from New Yoke), and some solar panels so that he wouldn’t have to worry about running out of power for everything. At the moment, he was working on creating a better defense system for his base after a lot of it was destroyed in that battle, at least until that circuit board got fried.

“Note to self, make a fireproof mat. And maybe some fire extinguishers while I’m at it…” Nine grumbled as he opened the door to the lab and ventured into the storage area. 

Between the hundreds of smashed grim robots and the remains of the chaos council’s machines, there was no shortage of spare parts for Nine to use to his whim. If he recalled correctly, there was a similar circuit board right in the chest cavity of what remained of that old grim birdie robot-

BEEP BEEP BEEP!

Nine jumped, and then bolted back towards the lab. While the defense system wasn’t done yet, he did manage to finish making a forcefield around the base, as well as a radar system for potential threats.

And right now, its alarm was going off.

“Computer, show what the radar is indicating!” The screen lit up accordingly, and Nine ran up to the controls to shoot a laser at the threat if necessary. 

On the screen, everything seemed normal outside at first glance. The sky was still a dark blue crossed with green where the auroras were active, and periodically dotted with a few stars in some spots. Only, one of them seemed to shine brighter than the others…

Uh oh.

The “star” shined even brighter, and the sky around it seemed to shimmer for a moment, kind of like how it was…before a portal to the void was opened.

“ShootShootSHOOT…!” Nine quickly slammed a button on his console to activate the forcefield so that the fortress would be protected, and then braced himself for a tear to appear in the sky again to rip apart the shatterspace, or a portal with the chaos council coming through to destroy him once and for all, or the ship with all of the shatterspace variants coming to mount an assault on his home again, because why the heck would they actually keep that promise to leave him alone in the grim after they attacked him, after he attacked them-

…Boom!

Out of that shimmering part of the sky, something small appeared and started falling. Something small, round, and metal that gleamed as it plummeted to the surface until it crashed with a distant noise. 

Nine opened his eyes. That…wasn’t a robot. At least, it didn’t look like one. It more closely resembled some sort of capsule, with a strange plaque engraved on its surface. “ What…is that??” Nine wondered, still a little shaken. “Even if it doesn’t look like a robot, it could still be some sort of trap, maybe a robot in disguise or a bomb or SOMETHING”. Nine muttered. He began to pace around, his finger hovering over the button to activate the metal tails out of habit. “Whatever it is… I won’t let anything destroy my home .”. Nine pushed a button on the console to summon some of the alpha robots, and within seconds Alpha Sonic, Amy, and Birdie showed up and lined up in front of Nine. “Alphas, go to where that capsule crashed and scan it to see if it’s hiding anything. Report that data to the main computer.” The robots each did a quick salute and then flew off. 

After a couple of minutes, the alpha robots reached the site of the crash. Nine watched the screen as they started to investigate the capsule, with alpha Birdie picking it up with their metallic talons and flying up a foot while alpha Amy and Sonic scanned it. “Ok, so it didn’t explode when you touched it, that still doesn’t mean it’s not some kind of trap. It’s gotta be something bad.” Nine was repeating this to himself as he looked, until the computer lit up with a new alert. “The scanner indicates that the inside of this capsule contains…uh…” It contained..a bunch of random stuff. The x-rays only showed vague outlines, but there were no mechanical parts in the walls or in the interior, just a mix of cloth bundles, wooden boxes, metal cans, what looked like a pole with something tied to it?

“....Maybe I should take a closer look.” Nine mumbled, pushing some more buttons on the console. “Alphas, bring the capsule into the hangar room.

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nine landed a few feet away from the capsule, where the alpha robots were just standing around staring into space after bringing it in. Scanning it with his own scanner brought the same results as before: not a robot or a bomb. “...How the heck did this get here in the first place? Sonic better not have broken the prism again…”. He walked slowly around the capsule until he noticed something shine in the corner of his eye. “Oh right, there was some sort of plaque on the surface. Let’s see…”. Alpha Amy tipped over the capsule until the plaque was fully visible, and Nine began reading it.

“Dear Nine,

This letter is from the members of the shatterspaces who participated in the battle for the paradox prism (Except the chaos council, good riddance to them)

Reading that, Nine felt an immediate flash of anger. “Those guys?! They wanted to play one last trick on me, didn’t they!” For a moment he had an urge to order the alphas to blow it to bits, or take the capsule apart himself with his metal tails, but something made him stop for a moment. Inhale…Exhale… “Calm down Nine, you might as well read the rest before destroying this.” He started reading the plaque again.

“We understand if you don’t care, but each of us were able to return to our homes. With the chaos council gone for good this time, we in New Yoke are actually making some progress in getting this city back to the peaceful green place it used to be”

Me crew managed to get back to the seas of No Place in one piece as well, and we’re workin on cleaning up as well. With Black Rose as the new captain, this ship has never been heartier.

Us folks in the Boscage were able to get back, and we were able to finally finish fixing the damage from that last attack. However, it was sad saying goodbye to everyone else, especially my fellow Roses…but then something amazing happened.

So, it turns out that when those dunderheads of the chaos council attacked our homes back then, they left their communicators behind. Even with the portals closed, they still managed to work. That means that we were able to talk to each other again!

It was mighty fine to catch up with everyone! But the more we talked, the more we realized that there was something weighing on all of our minds after that final battle two weeks ago.

It was a month on our end, but yeah, you get the point. After that final battle, we all made a promise to Sonic to let you live in the Grim in peace, and never bother you again. Don’t worry, none of us intend on breaking that promise.

But, after a long time to think and reflect, we realized that it didn’t feel good to just leave you behind like that. We know that’s what you wanted, and we know this is kind of selfish of us, but in the end a lot of us wanted a chance to apologize to you. There was a ton of residual shard energy left behind by all those portals even after the prism was stabilized, meaning that each of us in the shatterspaces had a way to at least pass stuff to each other, even if we can’t see each other in person.

We aren’t gonna visit ye in the Grim, just getting that out of the way. We know ye hate us, and we don’t blame ya. But, we all decided to pitch in and make this capsule. Because what’s a new home without a housewarming gift? 

Each one of us put a present in this capsule before sending it to the next shatterspace, and by the time you’re reading this, it probably crashed somewhere in the Grim. 

You are free to do whatever you want with this capsule and its contents. If you wish to destroy it, along with this plaque, go right ahead. We won’t force you to do anything you don’t want to do . At the end of the day, it’s your choice.

The end of the plaque was engraved with a whole bunch of names. The Roses, Dread, Sails, Catfish, Batten, Commander Rouge and Renegade Knucks, the rest of the resistance, even the scavengers. Nine was silent after reading the whole thing.

“ They…actually think I buy this? That they just felt bad for me, the guy that nearly destroyed them, their homes, and nearly all of reality? Are they serious?!”

The more he thought about it, the more furious he became. His ears flattened and he started growling.

“Did they actually think I’d accept this, after EVERYTHING that happened?! Why would they start caring now? Why’d they think I’D believe in them after they wanted to kill me? Of course they’d start caring after everything was over, after they got to go back to their homes all safe and stable, after Sonic-”

Nine stopped. His breath hitched for a second. Thinking about Sonic still hurt, even after all was said and done. He…helped everyone. Sonic helped everyone grow and develop in the short time he knew them, including Nine, even if he didn’t realize it. Even though he hurt him, Sonic apologized, no one had ever apologized…

There was no way they all actually cared about him. The bruise he got from that punch by Renegade Knucks took a long time to heal, and he still woke up in a cold sweat thinking about those attacks trying to break his barrier. He wasn’t like the Roses, he couldn’t become fast friends with his own variants, he nearly blew those two up for crying out loud.

Nine realized that he had started pacing again, and sat down in a nearby swivel chair. He turned to a nearby robot, Alpha Rouge, who had started organizing some spare parts the other robots had brought in the day before. “What do you think I should do with this?” The robot turned to look at him and tilted its head for a second at the question, then went right back to working. It didn’t talk. None of them did. And Nine was ok with that.  

Nine took a quick glance at the window, and realized that it was starting to get late. At the end of a “day” in the grim, the green light on the horizon died down, and the sky would begin to turn from a dark blue to almost blackish purple, with even more stars popping up. “I’ll figure out what to do with this thing tomorrow. Alphas, stand guard over it” He started flying towards the door. “We scanned it a bunch of times already, but just to be safe, if that capsule grows robot legs or something like that, shoot it on sight.” The alphas that gathered there all saluted as Nine went out the door and through the hallway towards his bedroom. “... Worse case scenario, I can just melt it down for scrap”.

[snek-in-a-hat]

Day 3 @augusnippets

3: Thunderstorm / Blizzard / Heat Wave

------------------------------------------------

'Should I get out and push?'

Leader glared at Right Hand's question as they pressed on the accelerator for the third time to no avail.

Cetus I - 77 was not a temperate planet, but was rich in rare minerals and deemed worth attempting to set up a base camp for future mining operations. It's surface was typically about 250 degrees Fahrenheit, reaching 300 in some places at the peak of the solar day. It's atmosphere was not quite breathable, nor were the gaseous particle storms non-hazardous, but all in all, it would not be the most difficult planet the human systems union had attempted to tame, even if only temporarily.

Unfortunately they would be no closer to setting up the base camp at the location Scientist had proposed if their climber kept getting stuck in the fine sands that covered a majority of the planet.

'They need to start sending us equipment that works,' growled Leader as they made to secure their suit and exit the vehicle.

'You'd hate it. It would make the job too easy.'

Leader couldn't stop the little chuckle from escaping.

'Stay here,' they warned as Right Hand began to unbuckle themselves from the co-pilot seat. At their confused look, they added, 'Someone needs to keep an eye on the weather patterns and the radio.'

Right Hand slouched back in their seat with a huff.

'Be right back,' Leader called, grabbing one of the folding field shovels.

The chamber depressurized and it was like the opening of an oven. Leader cursed at the brightness overwhelming them and the heat that immediately began to put their suit systems to work.

They ignored the blaring of the heat alarm and trekked to the back of the climber. Thankfully nothing looked broken, but it seemed that the wheels might need to be dug out of the sand.

Leader felt the sweat pouring down their back and temples before they'd even started.

Too easy, they scoffed to themselves and began digging at the back left wheel.

It felt like they were moving in slow motion. It seemed that every shovelful was almost replaced by the wind blowing more sand back into the hole. Leader cursed again at the heat and themselves for not thinking to drink some water before sealing the suit and going outside.

A pounding headache was making itself known right behind their eyes and the arm holding the shovel began to shake.

Slowly leader moved their way over to the other wheel and began digging it out. They tried to go quickly to avoid the wind undoing their work. They had only intended to be outside for about 5-10 minutes, but they had no idea how long it had been. Somewhere in the back of their mind, they recognized that probably was not a good thing. As leader bent down to get another shovelful, a sudden wave of dizziness overtook them and they crashed to their knees.

They reached a shaking hand to their communicator and called for Right Hand. Something was definitely wrong.

Hearing no answer, they tried again, but the last thing they heard was static before darkness took them.

----

Right Hand kept glancing at the clock while keeping an eye on the radar. A storm would likely head in their direction, but probably not for another 30 minutes. As it was Leader had already been gone for 10 minutes, but Right Hand didn't dare bother then when they were pissed at the climber. It was a recipe for disaster. Besides, the proximity sensors were showing that Leader was working on the back left wheel.

Another 5 minutes passed and Right Hand was beginning to get worried. That storm was definitely going to hit.

'Hey, Leader. Sorry to bother you, but I think that storm is coming our way. I think we've got another 15 minutes. Do you need some help?'

There was nothing but static. It wasn't necessarily surprising. Leader often didn't answer Right Hand, especially if they offered help. They checked the sensors again. Leader was now by the right back wheel.

Another 5 minutes passed and Right Hand made up their mind. Angry or not, Leader would need their help to finish up and get them out of the storm's path. Besides they had already exceeded the recommended time for being out on Cetus' surface.

Right Hand affixed their suit and depressurized the chamber. The sudden wave hit them and their stomach clenched. It was HOT.

They worked their way to the back of the climber, but noticed a distinct lack of noise. No shovel scraping sand, no clangs from Leader hitting the vehicle, or muffled curses.

As they rounded the corner, Right Hand gasped. Leader was face down in the sand and slowly being buried as the wind blew more and more on top of their body.

'Shit. Shit. Shit!'

They rushed to Leader's side and began tapping on their helmet. Right Hand cursed at the lack of response. They looked to the horizon and saw the storm was now visible and growing closer. They needed to get inside the climber now.

Right Hand stooped and pulled Leader into a fireman's carry. They would have to ride out the storm inside the vehicle and hope that the seals didn't come loose.

As carefully as they could, they placed Leader on the floor and repressurized the chamber. Right Hand ripped their helmet off and then Leader's.

Right Hand felt for a pulse and let out a small sigh. It was strong, but way too fast. Further inspection revealed skin that was far too hot and dry. Not to mention the fact that Leader was out like a light.

An examination of Leader's suit showed that the cooling systems were broken and probably had been for some time. The communicator was fried and the seals were worn. But at least the heat alarm works, Right Hand thought wryly.

The climber shuddered as the storm finally hit and the emergency lighting switched to red. Holding their breath until they were sure the seals would hold, Right Hand resolved to go get some cool towels and water. If they were lucky, the secondary transmitter was still functioning and they could get a distress call back to the ship.

'They definitely need to start sending us equipment that works.'

------------------------------------------------

Apologies, I know this one is probably double the max recommended length, but I didn't feel like I could cut it down! Please let me know if I missed any CW tags. Day 3 done!

[wiredawake]

Support Families in Northern Gaza through Rooftop & Home Vegetable Gardens

"My name is Laila El-Haddad. I'm an author and advocate for Palestinian rights and food justice. Many of you might know me as the co-author of The Gaza Kitchen: A Palestinian Culinary Journey. I'm also an avid gardener and though I am from Gaza City, I'm a farmer at heart!  Farmers represent the deep rootedness Palestinians have to the land.  For Palestinians, farming, especially during a time of genocide and ecocide-is an act of deep faith and the very embodiment of Sumood- the Palestinian concept of steadfast perseverance.

Background

Once known for its lush apple orchards, strawberries, and citrus, northern Gaza is now completely cut off from the rest of Gaza.  

As part of its policy to make Gaza unlivable, Israel has destroyed 50% of Gaza's trees and farmland, and severely restricted the entry of food and aid, especially to the north. The scale of damage and destruction is catastrophic. Israeli forces have leveled agricultural land, 90% of all greenhouses, olive groves, and poultry farms. The entire population is now facing a forced starvation policy and experiencing extreme hunger. 

Your Donation Will Help Change This Reality by Providing Rooftop, Home, and Urban Vegetable Gardens through seedling and seed distribution for Vulnerable and Displaced Families in Northern Gaza who are subsisting on 245 calories a day. 

What and Why?  

I'm organizing this campaign to help support farmers and families in the areas of northern Gaza most impacted by Israel's ongoing war to start their own rooftop and home gardens-a small step towards self sufficiency and food sovereignty. All international and local aid agencies have had to evacuate from the north, leaving the population especially vulnerable, and whatever limited amounts of fresh produce and aid are available are sold astronomical prices. 

How?

I spent months researching and consulting with agricultural experts in Gaza and abroad on the most secure and effective way to give Palestinians sustainable access to fresh produce.  Next, I partnered with with the Gaza Palestinian American Association and the Middle East Children's Alliance, both accredited 501(c)(3)  who are taking 0% overhead, as well as a team of community based partners in Gaza, who will be sourcing the supplies needed to start the home gardens locally and managing the project.  

Our team on the ground has been working hard to source and start growing local seedlings to distribute to families, and other materials needed to provide them with the resources they desperately need to start their own home, rooftop, patio, and community vegetable gardens, depending on the spaces they have access to.  We will roll out the project in several phases, which each phase targeting 100 families.

Each family will receive:

* At least 30 assorted seasonal vegetables seedlings (Palestinian summer squash, hot peppers, eggplant, cucumber and tomatoes, depending on availability)

* 80 grams of local seeds (dill, mulukhiya, chard), 

* Compost, soil, and amendments 

* Plastic planters, irrigation cans, where needed

* Training and follow up by agriculture experts

Your donations will also help fund the purchase of several solar panel systems to power  community wells that communities rely on to drink and irrigate their gardens and farms with (currently, municipal access to water is limited to once every ten days, and well motors are inoperable due to an Israeli ban on the entry of fuel).

With your support, we can help Palestinian families sow the seeds of a brighter future, cultivate hope and grow some of their own food again!

Your donation is tax deductible and zakat eligible!  100% of the proceeds will go towards the project in Gaza!  

Together, we will help families in the north grow healthy food for themselves, their neighbors and their friends!

[tea-withnofixinsplease]

We're makin leaps and bounds with this whole sustainability thing since we moved from our apartment a few years ago. Whenever i feel like im not doin enough I lay out all the tiny swaps we've done on the table

we no longer by styrofoam cups and reuse the ones we have

We no longer use plastic plates, we either use glass or compostable ones (and throw the compostable ones in the compost)

Our building has solar panels for electricity

Our soaps are zero/low waste

My mother and I started our loc journey so its much easier to find all-natural, plastic free hair care

I use reusable pads

I don't buy new clothes often if at all, 4 shirts in the last 7 years

3/5 of us eat strictly plant-based bc we're vegan,

We have an indoor hydroponic system growing leafy greens, tomatoes, peppers and fruits, and we bought seeds in bulk. We're planning on swapping rockwool cubes with reusable and compostable hemp fiber cubes

Since the hydroponic system is so bright, and the led lights last for 5 years at a time, we use the living area lights much less, opting for natural sunlight if the hydroponic system is not enough or is off.

We have a bokashi indoor compost bin for food scraps, and an outdoor cold compost bin for the scraps that cant go in the bokashi bin to make our own soil

We started a kitchen garden, and a pollinator/tea garden, and as of 2023 we now have a plum tree, a grapevine, two blackberry bushes, 5 reusable grow bags, 4 big planters and 2 big raised garden beds, lookin forward to fruits and vegetables in the spring, summer, fall and winter. We're planning to buy one more steel raised bed to ensure that we are cycling through what we're growing each year to limit pest-control methods, even neem oil, and planning on purchasing a lot more perennials and native perennials/annuals.

This fall Im gonna purchase a mushroom growing chamber kit for more low waste vegan meat alternatives and to add some healthy mushroom soil to the compost cycle

Our laundry detergent is environmentally safe

Our washing machine is water-efficient

We have a fridge with a water filter for cooking and drinking water

We have reusable grocery store bags

Im gonna try to grow lufas next year to replace our kitchen sponges and steel wool scrubbing pads,

Our property is small, and our neighbors are not as social/gungho about bartering or Co-Op food gardening,

but I'm proud of wat we've done so far, and I can do a lot more, and I plan to do so, so any advice would be welcome

[silicacid]

Seventy-one per cent of Gaza’s population experiences extreme hunger, Euro-Med Monitor study says

Over 71% of participants in a study conducted in the Gaza Strip by Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor said that they suffer from extreme hunger, corroborating accusations that Israel uses starvation to punish Palestinian civilians.

Euro-Med Monitor conducted an analytical study that included a sample of 1,200 people in the Gaza Strip in order to ascertain the impact of the humanitarian crisis that Gazans are experiencing in the midst of Israel’s ongoing Israeli genocidal war, which began on 7 October.

According to the study’s findings, 98% of respondents said they eat insufficient amounts of food, while 64% of the participants admitted to eating grass, fruits, immature food, and expired materials to satiate their hunger.

The study found that the rate of access to water in the Gaza Strip, including drinking, bathing, and cleaning water, is 1.5 litres per person per day. This is 15 liters less than the minimum amount of water required for survival at the level required by international standards, noted Euro-Med Monitor.

Additionally, the study examined the effects of malnutrition and a lack of access to clean drinking water. Sixty-six per cent of the study sample reported having experienced diarrhea, skin rashes, or intestinal diseases in the past month.

Euro-Med Monitor transcribed testimonies from doctors revealing an increase in the rate of deaths from fainting and heart attacks in the areas of Gaza City and the Strip’s northern sections, which are witnessing a more severe deterioration in the humanitarian crisis and hunger rates.

Since the start of its genocide in Gaza, Israel has imposed a comprehensive blockade on the Strip and prevented supplies of food, water, fuel, and other humanitarian necessities from reaching the more than 2.3 million residents of the Strip. Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon has taken intensified since 7 October, and has included cutting off all food supplies to Gazans as well as bombing and destroying the Strip’s bakeries, factories, food stores, and water stations and tanks.

Israel has also targeted solar energy systems and electrical generators that power restaurants, businesses, and government agencies. Additional Israeli attacks have destroyed the agricultural area east of Gaza; flour stores; fishing boats; and supply centres for relief organisations, especially the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), the largest source of humanitarian aid in the Strip.

Under international pressure, Israel opened the Rafah land crossing; however, the crossing is open to an average of just 100 trucks per day, for humanitarian supplies coming from Egypt. This is a far cry from the average load of 500 trucks that entered the Strip prior to 7 October to meet humanitarian needs. It is important to note that roughly half of the Gaza Strip’s population is children under the age of 18.

Although a limited amount of food aid has been allowed to enter the enclave, no commercial food imports have been delivered, leaving the Gaza Strip’s residents in dire need of food, particularly in light of the Israeli collective punishment policy.

Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor stressed that international humanitarian law strictly prohibits the use of starvation as a weapon. As an occupying power, Israel is obligated under international humanitarian law to provide basic needs and protection to the Gazan people.

The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court provides that intentionally starving civilians by “depriving them of objects indispensable to their survival, including willfully impeding relief supplies” is a war crime, said the Geneva-based rights group. Euro-Med Monitor called for decisive international action to impose a permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and prevent further deterioration of the situation by providing fair and unrestricted access to basic and relief materials to the entire Strip, and allowing the entry of food, water, medical, and fuel supplies in order to meet the needs of the population.

[joblrsecretsanta]

Hello I'm working on my Joblr Secret Santa fic and have a Slovenia question I was hoping for help with. For mountain huts/cottages in the Alps, are even the most rural ones connected with power lines, or do they have generators (if they have electricity)? If power goes down due to snow/ice storms in the mountains, is it usually restored quickly or does it take ages? (I could probably just write based on personal experience in other countries but accuracy is fun 🥰) Thank you!

Hello! Thank you for your question!!

Here's the answer, hope it helps :)

most bigger stuff is equipped with some sort of power source, if not connected to the grid itself.

bigger ones are equipped with full kitchens, furnaces, bars, off-the-grid water systems, and generators (see Kredarica. but that's the main mountain climbing pit stop for Triglav; has 300 beds or something like that)

usually they're meant for people to stop and rest if they'd been caught up in a snowstorm or something of the sort. the bigger ones are often only open fully operational during the summer; (think June-September) with meteorologists or reduced staff for the rest of the year.

the bigger ones are "Planinske koče" or "Planinski domovi", with the latter being car/vehicle accessible and is open throughout the better part of the year; they have bunkbeds and usually can house a bigger capacity of people; according to the rules they're supposed to also have a "cold water washroom"; and basic cooking/meal prep equipment.

Planinska koča = electricity from either an oil-based generator or wind/solar powered; has a furnace for warmth, functional toilets/washrooms, bunks/shared bed space in the upper story if it's a bigger building. generally should also have the option to contact the mountain rescue service and signal for help.

the smaller ones, (Not Kredarica. that one's basically a mini hotel) can be "bivaki"; only carrying bare essentials for sleeping over - a couple of bed mats, shelted over your head and a cook nook (which I *think* has gas and batteries to light up the place, but don't quote me on that) or some other type of what is basically a metal/man-made box to keep out of the elements in and spend the night.

(TLDR; bigger ones have generators and off the grid washrooms/toilets; smaller ones only have bedspreads and shelter from the elements, with some having cooking equipment to prep basic meals; generally I think you're supposed to bring your own food, but the bigger ones often have meals and drinks for sale (think mountain bar, basically))

[unfortunately-obsessed]

On Earth, I Look Into Everything With Love

Summary: In this universe, Kara arrives on Earth at the same time Kal does.

Cw: grief/morning, unfinished work. Based on another Tumblr post but I can't find it anymore. 🩵 AO3 Link.

｡⁠*⁠♡

The Earth, a rocky planet and the densest of its solar system, is known for being a water world. More than 70.8% of Earth's surface is covered in water, which is central for the survival of its dominant species: humans.

Humans.

Kara is not sure of humans.

She doesn't understand much about them, and understands less their language. Of course, it is– was in the Kryptonian language database, she just never looked into it.

They – the two humans, supposedly a woman and a man – found her and Kal curled up in the rumble of their ship, trembling cold with space-loneliness on the remains of home. The two humans have been kind and nice so far, rushing Kara into their house as she carried, ever carefully, baby Kal El.

They offered safety, shelter, warmness. They're farmers, judging by the crops the ships just ruined, a vast field of green and yellow scattered with a desperate landing.

It's dark outside, night.

Kal is sleeping peacefully, still drowsy and lethargic from the cryogenic chamber, wrapped in red. He's so small, the last son of Krypton.

Surprisingly, her arm isn't aching from holding him for so long. Sitting in one of the chairs in what seems like a common area of the humans' house, she can hear them hushed talking in another room, a garble of sounds foreign to Kara's ears.

Everything she looks at is sharp, the edges and colors more vivid than in Krypton.

She'll have to figure something out, and soon. She needs to figure out how to communicate with the aliens.

The woman approaches, holding something, then makes a gesture of– offering? Maybe. Showing her teeth, she puts a cup in front of Kara.

Kara slumps her hand forward, in a grabbing motion, but stopping just before touching the object, testing the waters. The woman seen expecting, so Kara does actually grab it.

A liquid, somewhat luscious and slightly sweet-smelling drink, is inside the object. Maybe milk? It's hot, it's white, and the recipient it sits in has some kind of handle, probably so the person drinking doesn't burn themselves.

Kara accepts it, gulping in a diplomatic gesture. Rich taste, and sweet indeed. It tastes good.

The man follows behind, carrying some kind of tray. An overwhelmingly mellow aroma fills the room as he place it, also, on the table.

"Pye," the woman announces, the language simple-sounding. She puts a round plate with a slice of what the man was carrying.

Kara curiously peers at it, the smell bubbling hunger into her stomach.

The slice is triangular, a layer of crisp crust, filled with oozy red hot cream, maybe jam, and then another layer of crust that forms a geometric forms. It's made by hand, which is impressive on its own.

Again making the offering gesture, with open palms and expectantly, the woman gives Kara the plate with the slice and an utensil made of metal.

Everything is very delicate. The plate has a dedicate and luxurious paint around the edges, flower-like, painted in warm colors; and the utensil, which Kara assumes is to help eating, is carved with an alike flowery pattern and is very shiny.

The utensil is strange and clumsy on Kara's hands, yet she still gets a bite of the pye.

It's sweet, warm. This pye thing is delicious, and makes Kara think they're overcompensating. Or maybe those two aliens are just this generous and kind, even if Kara just destroyed their crops.

The woman says something to the man, a gibberish of sounds, but showing her teeth. The man seems to agree.

Kara didn't expect to understand the language, but the lack of clear communication nags at her as she starts to familiarize herself with the sounds, trying to grasp at any pattern. Those humans speak in a very rhythmic and melodic way.

She takes another bite of the pye, not quite anything she tasted before. Sweet and tart at the same time.

Kal seems to wake up with the smell, too. He is an unexpectedly well behaved child, so just because this pye didn't upset her own stomach, Kara puts her finger in the jam, and brush it against Kal's lips.

He is well pleased by the taste, licking his lips and already eager for more, trying to catch Kara's hands with his tiny palm.

The humans stopped talking to watch the interaction.

So suddenly, Kara is overhwelmed by a wave of building sadness. It crashed every bone and made her tremble in a single motion, of wishing her mother to see the cute face Kal is making.

But before any tear can be shed, the woman burst, "Mart'a."

Kara doesn't have idea of what it means. Maybe her expression gives it away, in some interspecies' common sense.

The woman puts her hand on her own chest. "Mart'a–" then she puts her hand on the man's chest, "–Jonat'an."

"Jonat'an," the man repeats, putting his own hand over his chest.

Kara crushes her grief between the hands, trying eagerly to understand this new interaction. Then, it turns clear between the two humans, and she places her own hand on her chest.

"Kara," she introduces herself, then gingerly lifts Kal, that is looking at everything with a curious gaze, "Kal."

The woman– Mart'a shows her teeth once again.

It helps, almost, by how gentle she looks.

"Kara," she repeats.

Kara nods and repeats the expression, strangely, showing her teeth, even if her facial muscles are foreign at it.

She offers a hand, like the woman were doing earlier, nearly pointing. "Mart'a," tries vehemently with a clumsy pronunciation.

The humans seen very happy by it.

Kara feels at ease, too.

[makers-muse]

Top success stories emerging from Atal Tinkering Labs 

Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs), an initiative by the Government of India under the Atal Innovation Mission, have transformed the educational landscape by fostering innovation and creativity among school students. These labs, equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technologies, empower young minds to explore, experiment, and innovate. Over the years, several inspiring success stories have emerged from these labs, showcasing the potential of young innovators to solve real-world problems. Let’s explore some of the most outstanding innovations: 

1. Affordable Braille Printer by a Teen Innovator 

A young student from an ATL in Maharashtra developed an affordable Braille printer using simple, cost-effective materials. Inspired by the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in accessing printed content, the innovator utilized 3D printing and Arduino programming to create a solution that costs a fraction of traditional Braille printers. This project not only garnered national recognition but also opened avenues for mass production and accessibility. 

2. Water Purification System by Rural Students 

In a small village in Rajasthan, students from an ATL tackled the problem of contaminated drinking water. Using basic science and technology, they created a portable water purification system powered by solar energy. Their innovative approach combined affordability with sustainability, making clean drinking water accessible to their community. This project has been lauded as a model for addressing rural challenges through STEM. 

3. IoT-Enabled Smart Farming Solution 

A team of students from an ATL in Punjab developed an IoT-based smart farming system to assist local farmers. The system monitors soil moisture, temperature, and humidity, providing real-time data to optimize irrigation and crop yield. By integrating mobile alerts, the project offered a user-friendly solution for resource optimization, earning accolades at various innovation fairs. 

4. Low-Cost Prosthetic Arm 

A high school student from an ATL in Karnataka designed a low-cost prosthetic arm using 3D printing and robotics. The prosthetic was aimed at helping underprivileged individuals who couldn’t afford expensive medical solutions. With a focus on functionality and affordability, this project showcased how young minds could bridge the gap between technology and societal needs. 

5. Traffic Management App 

Students from an ATL in Delhi created a traffic management app to tackle congestion in their city. By using GPS and data analytics, the app provided real-time traffic updates and suggested alternative routes. This project highlighted the potential of technology in solving urban challenges and was appreciated by local authorities. 

Why ATLs Matter 

The success stories from Atal Tinkering Labs underline the importance of early exposure to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. These labs cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity, enabling students to become future-ready innovators. They also emphasize the power of collaborative learning, as students work together to tackle pressing issues. 

Join the innovation movement 

Atal Tinkering Labs have become breeding grounds for young innovators who dare to dream big and take action. From addressing social challenges to creating cutting-edge technologies, these students are shaping a brighter, more sustainable future. Join Us Today!��As we honor these achievements, let’s keep encouraging and empowering the next generation of innovators and leaders. Who knows? The next big innovation might just come from an ATL near you! 

Are you inspired by these stories? Encourage the young learners around you to explore STEM opportunities. Share this blog and help spread the spirit of innovation! Call us today to discover how our programs can help unlock the potential in young minds and ignite their passion for learning! 

[permionics]

Eco-Friendly Solutions for Purifying Water at Home

Making eco-friendly choices at home is a simple yet impactful way to ensure access to clean drinking water while supporting water conservation efforts. Using methods like gravity-based purifiers and ceramic filters helps reduce reliance on electricity and single-use plastics. These systems effectively handle water purification while minimizing waste, making them both practical and environmentally friendly. Collecting rainwater and filtering it for household use is another sustainable step that supports water conservation by utilizing natural resources wisely and reducing the demand on community water supplies.

Solar-powered UV purifiers and bio-sand filters are excellent options for households aiming to embrace greener living. Solar systems purify water without increasing energy consumption, while bio-sand filters use natural materials to remove contaminants efficiently. By adopting these eco-friendly solutions, families can actively contribute to water conservation and purification. Small efforts made at home can collectively lead to a significant impact, ensuring a sustainable future for both our planet and its water resources.

[reasonsforhope]

"The last coal-fired power plant in New England, which had been the focus of a lawsuit and protests, is set to close in a victory for environmentalists.

Granite Shore Power said Wednesday it reached an agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency to close the Merrimack Station in New Hampshire by June 2028. As part of the deal, the company said the site will be turned into the state’s first renewable energy park that host solar power and battery storage systems. The company also said it would shutter Schiller Station in Portsmouth in December 2025. That facility, which is permitted to use oil, coal and biomass, has not operated for several years...

The 460-megawatt station in Bow has long been a thorn in the side of environmental groups. Most recently, the Sierra Club and the Conservation Law Foundation filed a lawsuit against plant owners, alleging it was violating the Clean Water Act. The plant was owned by Eversource until 2018, when it was sold to Connecticut-based Granite Shore Power. Both were named as defendants.

The environmental groups claimed the plant draws about 287 million gallons (1.1 billion liters) of water per day from the Merrimack River, heats that water as a result of its cooling process, and then discharges the water back into the river at temperatures that often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).

Climate activists also protested the plant and demanded its closure over concerns it is a major source of air pollution. [Note: Coal plants are by definition major sources of air pollution. x] In one incident, climate activists last year paddled canoes and kayaks down the Merrimack River to the plant site and were arrested after going onto the property.

“This historic victory is a testament to the strength and resolve of those who never wavered in the fight for their communities and future,” Ben Jealous, Sierra Club Executive Director, said in a statement. “The people of New Hampshire and all of New England will soon breathe cleaner air and drink safer water.”

The Sierra Club said the announcement will make New Hampshire the 16th state that is coal-free and New England the second coal-free region in the country."

-via AP News, March 28, 2024

--

Note: It doesn't say it in this article, but the coal plants are being replaced by renewables! Specifically solar and battery farms! Source

[water-pumps-uae]

Addressing Climate Resilience with Advanced Water Pump Solutions

As climate change intensifies, communities and industries are facing increasing challenges related to water management, including floods, droughts, and water quality issues. Water pump technologies play a vital role in building climate resilience by ensuring reliable water access, efficient water usage, and effective disaster management. Below are key ways in which water pump solutions are addressing climate resilience.

1. Mitigating Flood Risks

Flooding is one of the most severe consequences of climate change, causing widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and communities.

High-Capacity Dewatering Pumps: Advanced submersible dewatering pumps can quickly remove large volumes of water from flooded areas, reducing property damage and enabling faster recovery.

Stormwater Management Systems: Pumps integrated into stormwater infrastructure help divert excess water during heavy rainfall, preventing urban flooding.

Mobile Pumping Units: Portable pump systems provide rapid response capabilities, particularly in remote or disaster-prone areas.

2. Ensuring Water Security During Droughts

Droughts threaten water availability for households, agriculture, and industries. Pump technologies help optimize the use of limited water resources.

Efficient Irrigation Pumps: Drip irrigation and sprinkler systems powered by high-efficiency pumps minimize water wastage while ensuring crops receive adequate moisture.

Groundwater Extraction: Borewell pumps enable access to deep groundwater reserves, providing reliable water sources during drought conditions.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Pumps are essential for collecting, storing, and distributing harvested rainwater, reducing reliance on dwindling freshwater sources.

3. Supporting Water Recycling and Reuse

Water recycling is critical in regions facing water scarcity due to changing climate patterns.

Greywater Pumps: These pumps facilitate the reuse of lightly contaminated water for non-potable purposes like irrigation, flushing, and cleaning.

Industrial Water Recycling: Pumps integrated into industrial processes enable the treatment and reuse of wastewater, reducing the demand for fresh water.

Decentralized Systems: Small-scale water recycling systems with integrated pumps support localized water management, especially in remote areas.

4. Enhancing Agricultural Resilience

Agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate change, with unpredictable weather patterns affecting crop yields and water availability.

Solar-Powered Irrigation Pumps: These pumps provide sustainable water access for irrigation, particularly in regions with unreliable electricity supply.

Variable-Speed Pumping Systems: These systems adjust water flow based on real-time irrigation needs, reducing energy and water waste.

Pumps for Salinity Management: In areas affected by rising sea levels, pumps are used to manage soil salinity by flushing out excess salts and maintaining soil fertility.

5. Safeguarding Drinking Water Supplies

Climate change affects the availability and quality of drinking water. Pump solutions ensure safe and consistent water access.

Water Purification Pumps: Pumps integrated with filtration and UV treatment systems provide clean drinking water in areas with poor water quality.

Pumps for Desalination: High-pressure pumps are critical components of desalination plants, converting seawater into potable water in arid coastal regions.

Emergency Water Supply Pumps: Portable water pumps are essential for delivering clean water to communities affected by natural disasters or infrastructure failures.

6. Managing Rising Sea Levels

Coastal regions are increasingly vulnerable to rising sea levels and storm surges, requiring innovative water management solutions.

Seawater Intrusion Pumps: Pumps help manage seawater intrusion in coastal aquifers, preserving freshwater reserves for agriculture and drinking purposes.

Flood Barriers and Sluice Gate Pumps: Pump systems integrated with flood barriers manage water levels in coastal cities, preventing saltwater from inundating urban areas.

Wetland Restoration Pumps: Pumps are used to restore and maintain coastal wetlands, which act as natural buffers against storm surges.

7. Promoting Energy-Efficient Solutions

Energy efficiency is key to reducing the carbon footprint of water management systems.

Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): Pumps with VFDs optimize motor speeds, reducing energy consumption and operational costs.

Solar and Wind-Powered Pumps: Renewable energy-powered pumps eliminate reliance on fossil fuels, supporting climate adaptation without contributing to emissions.

High-Efficiency Motors: Modern pumps with advanced motor designs consume less energy, making water management more sustainable.

8. Supporting Disaster Preparedness and Response

Climate-related disasters like hurricanes, cyclones, and wildfires require robust water management solutions.

Firefighting Pumps: High-pressure pumps are essential for firefighting operations, particularly in areas prone to wildfires exacerbated by rising temperatures.

Emergency Relief Pumps: Portable pumps ensure the quick provision of clean water in disaster-stricken areas, supporting humanitarian efforts.

Reservoir Drainage Pumps: Pumps help manage water levels in reservoirs and dams, preventing overflow during extreme weather events.

9. Addressing Urban Water Challenges

Cities are increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including flooding, water shortages, and aging infrastructure.

Smart Pump Systems: IoT-enabled pumps provide real-time monitoring and control, optimizing water distribution and reducing wastage.

Urban Drainage Solutions: Pumps integrated into urban drainage systems mitigate the risk of waterlogging during heavy rains.

Pressure Boosting Pumps: These pumps ensure consistent water supply to high-rise buildings and densely populated areas, even during peak demand.

10. Collaborating for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

Water pump suppliers are collaborating with governments, NGOs, and industry leaders to develop climate-resilient infrastructure.

Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborative projects focus on building robust water management systems for flood control, irrigation, and urban water supply.

Research and Development: Investments in R&D are driving the development of innovative pump technologies tailored to climate resilience needs.

Capacity Building: Training programs for local communities and industries ensure the effective operation and maintenance of advanced pump systems.

Addressing climate resilience requires innovative water pump solutions that adapt to changing conditions, optimize resource use, and support sustainable development. By mitigating the impacts of floods, droughts, and rising sea levels, advanced pump technologies play a crucial role in ensuring water security and protecting communities. As climate challenges grow, continued investment in resilient and sustainable water management systems will be essential for safeguarding the future. For more info contact Water Pump Suppliers in UAE or call us at +971 4 2522966.

[optimaltradingltd]

Astral CPVC Pro is a range of high-performance plumbing pipes and fittings made from Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC). Astral Pipes, a trusted brand in the plumbing industry, offers CPVC Pro solutions designed for hot and cold water applications in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Here’s a detailed overview: Key Features of Astral CPVC Pro: Material Quality: Made from CPVC compound imported from Noveon, USA. Resistant to corrosion, scaling, and chemical deposits. High Temperature Resistance: Can handle water temperatures up to 93°C, making it ideal for hot water systems. Pressure Bearing Capacity: Excellent pressure resistance ensures durability under high pressure conditions. Hygienic and Safe: Non-toxic, lead-free, and does not support microbial growth. Suitable for potable (drinking) water. Durability: Superior tensile strength ensures long service life. Resistant to UV and sunlight exposure, which minimizes degradation. Easy Installation: Lightweight and easy to cut, join, and install using solvent cement. Minimal maintenance requirements. Chemical Resistance: Resistant to a wide range of acids, bases, and salts. Applications of Astral CPVC Pro: Residential Plumbing: Hot and cold water distribution in homes. Commercial Plumbing: Plumbing systems in hotels, hospitals, and office buildings. Industrial Use: Transporting chemicals and other liquids. Solar and Electric Geysers: Compatible with high-temperature water systems. Advantages Over Traditional Pipes: Superior thermal insulation compared to metal pipes. Does not corrode, ensuring long-term reliability. Lower maintenance and repair costs. Available Sizes and Standards: Ranges from 1/2 inch to 2 inches in diameter. Complies with standards like ASTM D2846 and IS 15778. Astral CPVC Pro is a trusted solution for those seeking reliability, efficiency, and safety in plumbing systems. 𝗕𝘂𝘆 𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 . . . 𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘: 📞 𝟬𝟭𝟯𝟬𝟮-𝟱𝟱𝟲𝟱𝟴𝟭 📞 𝟎𝟏𝟕𝟏𝟐-𝟑𝟕𝟖𝟖𝟑𝟐 🏠Visit Us: 3rd Floor, Block-B, 4/16 Humayun Road, Mohammadpur, Dhaka-1207. Open Saturday to Thursday 10 AM To 7 PM Map location: https://shorturl.at/lqswL আরও জানতে আমাদের ওয়েবসাইট ভিজিট করুন www.optimaltradingbd.com