Posted by: Katie Transue
National Geographic has done an excellent job of describing the Algalita/5 Gyres/Pangea Explorations two-legged 2012 Expedition through the Western Pacific Gyre and predicted Japan tsunami debris field. Writer, Meghan Miner, not only sums up the logistics of the voyage, but has also helped express our respect for an area containing pieces of peoples lives. Check out the article here!
Our main goal will be studying the effects of plastic pollution and marine debris relative to:
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providing habitat for marine life and its ability to transport invasive species from on continent to another;
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rates of decomposition of debris;
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colonization of marine life on, and into, different materials;
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educating students through the Algalita Ship-2-Shore blog; and
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spatial distribution of debris along the entire voyage transect
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We will also endeavor to observe, record, and recover personal items that might have survived, then make every effort to return them to their rightful owners, or their families.
The knowledge we gain will be invaluable to scientists; government agencies and educators across the globe and there will likely be no opportunity for this type of study for centuries to come. If you are interested in becoming in a crew member or would like to view our sponsor options and benefits click here for more details.
-Katie
Date Posted: December 23, 2011 @ 6:46 pm Comments (0)
Posted by: Katie Transue
Have you ever noticed the need for another waste can or TWO around the holidays? Americans throw away 25% more waste from Thanksgiving Day to New Years than at any other time of the year. This holiday season, let’s look for ways to put a little more green into our holiday gifts and events!
Here are few great suggestions that can help you practice the sustainable tips you’ve leaned throughout the year:
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Give a gift to help them help the environment, like a reusable water bottle or bag
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Think about gifts that make a big impact without any packaging: tickets to concert, a subscription to a magazine, or even a membership to an organization or non-profit
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Buy crafts and handmade items made from recycled materials from places like Etsy
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Wrap your gifts in recycled newspapers, magazines, fabric, or handkerchiefs
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Reuse your gift bags and boxes
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If you’re hosting an event – feed your guests local, organic produce.
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Make decorations from foliage in your yard.
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Visit Earth911.com to find your nearest Christmas tree recycling center
For more tips check out these great articles from Mother Nature Network:
How to Create Less Waste this Holiday Season
5 Ways to Fight Retail Over-packaging
Happy Holidays!
Katie
Date Posted: December 16, 2011 @ 1:15 pm Comments (0)
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