A round-up of this week’s environmental, green and ecofriendly news and updates.
It’s a perfect example of how influenced we are by TV. Since “Game of Thrones” aired on HBO, adoptions of Husky dogs have increased hugely – and sadly, they’re being dumped in droves too.
The wolves look great on TV, so people adopt Husky dogs. But their beautiful coats need weekly maintenance, they can’t be left alone with small animals, and they require lots and lots of exercise.
Sadly, it’s not just Game of Thrones. After “Finding Nemo” was released, sales of clown fish skyrocketed – and there were all too many reports of children flushing the fish down the toilet so they could be freed to the ocean (a plan promoted in the movie). And, after “Harry Potter” became a success, owls — like the Huskies — were adopted in a frenzy and then abandoned at an astonishing pace.
If animals only knew…. I’m sure they’d hate TV.
So sad.
Did you know that massage therapies – there are several different types – can offer relief from pain?
I hadn’t really given it much thought, until I researched this article.
I’m thinking that this could be a very pleasant way to feel better! Read how here.
I wrote last week about the total solar eclipse this month. Although I have been lucky enough to see several, one that really stood out was the one I watched in Zambia, Africa. We were in the middle of the Bush (jungle or rainforest), next to a river. The African bush is never quiet, not even at night. As the moon slowly crept across the sun and the light dimmed, I suddenly noticed that everything was still, and totally quiet (I still get goosebumps just thinking about it). It stayed eerily silent until after totality and the light started to increase again. Slowly, the insects started to click and some birds started to sing again. Gradually the bush came back to life.
Why am I telling you this? Because scientists would love you to share your observations with them! There isn’t much evidence on how wildlife react to a total eclipse, so Life Responds, a citizen-science project, wants to document how North American wildlife responds. You can read more here.
If you feel that you run around like crazy all day, but never seem to get anything done, this article might be for you.
Here are 4 ways to improve your productivity and get more done in the same time.
Global Green News:
Not much is known about pangolins. They are secretive, shy animals. Sadly, a new report shows that not only are they being hunted to extinction – they are the most trafficked wild mammal in the world – but they are more sought-after than elephant ivory.
Their meat is considered a delicacy and their scales are ground up for supposed medication. There is very little public awareness of their plight. But I’m trying to change that. Visit this site for more details.
Swiss scientists have identified a previously unknown threat to nocturnal insects (beetles, moths and flies) – light pollution. These insects are vital in the pollination of crops and wild plants, but artificial lights are decreasing their numbers – and plants have fewer fruits as a result.
US Green News:
National Geographic runs a photo contest each year. Already renowned for its stunning photography, this year’s contest featured some stunning shots. You can see them here. And you can even download them as wallpaper to your devices.
An artist created Wetland in 2014, a houseboat intended to foster conversations about climate change. Last week, it sank into Philadelphia’s Schuylkill River after a storm. Climate change – and irony – are alive and well.
The US Dept. of Agriculture has been told to never mention climate change. Instead it must use “weather extremes”. Staff have been told to replace “reduce greenhouse gases” with “build soil organic matter”. Instead of “climate change adaptation” they must say “resilience to weather extremes/intense weather events.” How pathetic.
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below.
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Lots of good information here. I won’t be watching the eclipse. I agree, massage is very healing. I found it almost more helpful than acupuncture. Parents that let their children get a certain pet because they saw it in a movie or on TV are not doing their job. Have a lovely week.