Category: Environment

A lot of forestland in Washington and Hancock counties is going to be conserved for the use of the public due to a partnership between several agencies. On Tuesday there were 17,881 acres purchased by the Conservation Fund from H.C. Haynes Inc. The goal is to ensure recreational access for the future, protect wildlife habitats and support the local coastal communities economies. The three parcels purchased included land in Edmunds Township, Township 9, Township 16, Surry and Ellsworth.

Almost eight million acres have been protected by the Conservation Fund including the 440,000 acres in Maine. The span of the forest property in the Spring River-Narraguagus is 13,779 acres. This was purchased on May 1st. The Nature Conservancy partners include the New England Forestry Foundation, the Nature Conservancy, the Maine Coast Heritage Trust, the Downeast Salmon Federation and the Blue Hill Heritage Trust.

 

The Nature Conservancy will acquire the Spring River-Narraguagus Forest acreage of 13,779 acres. The Venture Brook Forest in Washington County will be acquired by the New England Forestry Foundation. This will be classified as a working forest. The Surry and Ellsworth Meadowbrook Forest consisting of 2,012 acres will be an acquisition of the Blue Hill Heritage Trust. The land has over nine miles of roads. The Conservation Fund will pay the property taxes and maintain the recreational uses for the public and current leases.

The purchase of the property was covered by private donations and a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Coastal Wetlands grant for $530,000 for the trust. The three goals for the trust are to protect the wetlands on the property, increase the involvement of the agency with the forestry management and to preserve both the traditional and recreational uses.

The management of the land is being referred to as a demonstration forest. This will provide landowners with educational opportunities regarding forest management. In addition the property will provide hunting access for the public and numerous traditional uses. The Meadowbrook purchase will be discussed on May 30th at a public meeting at the Surry Elementary School. The property tax for the property will be paid by the trust.

There was a severe deterioration for kindling and charcoal during the 1950s. The severe deterioration was due to the use of fossil fuels for energy. The need for construction resources increased rapidly as the economy of Japan continued to rapidly expand. The demand for construction resources and Japan rapidly expanding caused the Forestry Agency to present a campaign. The purpose of the campaign was to specifically cut down buna forests and put in its place rapid growing cypress and cedar. The reason for replacing the buna forests with cypress and cedar was to make available additional cost-effective timber for building. Going forth with the campaign caused a problem. The plant life replacing the area of the cut down buna forests would not be able to grow fast enough to effectively substitute the clear-cut trees. Also, in the northeastern areas the freshly implanted conifers failed to develop at all.

The Forest Agency’s campaign resulted in an administration approved program that became a woodland devastation. Synthetic woodlands that made up Japan’s overall woodland acreage went from 27% to exceeding 44% by the year 1985. During this time period it is projected that at least close to 17 million buna vegetation was slaughtered. As a result of large amounts of vegetation being slaughtered replanting progressed in a rapid manner. The reforested areas in Japan are in need of thinning at this point. However, there are not enough individuals to complete this type of time consuming labor. Therefore, the reforested areas in Japan continue to be unattended. Numerous breathing creatures depend on forestry for nourishment and somewhere to live. Unfortunately, the annihilation of native woodlands has depressed existing creatures of natural surroundings.

During the 1960s there was a voracious demand for imported timber. The first target for imported timber during this time was foothill woodlands of the Philippines. After the foothill woodlands of the Philippines became bare importers beleaguered the wooded area of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Sarawak and Sabah. Targeting imported timber resulted in Japan being globally critiqued for diminishing the wooded area of Southeast Asia. Throughout the years the worth of Japan’s arboriculture production has been gradually decreasing. There has also been a declining of labor force that has occurred in Japan. The declining of labor force has caused neglected forestland to continuously grow and in some conditions become a source of flooding and mudslides. Today Japan’s buna woodlands are extensively dispersed and account for about 17% of its indigenous broad-leaved woodlands. Buna logs were primarily used to cultivate mushrooms and use as kindling. Buna logs were also used for toys, plywood, and keys for several types of melodic instruments. In recent years buna logs have been used for furniture and floorboards. Also, during the 1960s the Forestry Agency employed workers to cut down massive amounts of foliage. The Forestry Agency cutting down the woodlands endangered the livelihood of the native individuals who depended on the abundance of the highlands for several generations. Eventually, a movement against deforestation developed and spread all over the country. By the year 2010 the movement had resulted in foliage being planted, which developed into lavish forestland for upcoming generations.

In conclusion, there is a high interest by individuals for nature and its natural environment which makes it important to reserve forestry.

 

Supported by Ara Chackerian

The first two verses in Joyce Kilmer’s poem “Trees” reads:
“I think that I shall never see, A poem lovely as a tree. “

Trees are an essential resource to our planet and human existence, and not just for the shade they provide us on a hot summer’s day. Trees and forestation at large remove major harmful air pollutants like ground-level ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, as well as carbon monoxide as they absorb C02, thus extracting these harmful toxins from the air we breathe. Trees also emit oxygen, provide a place to store carbon and even stabilize the soil.

Microscopic particulate matter, such as soot, is small enough that we can easily breathe it into our lungs, which can potentially cause serious health issues. Trees regulate this. Particulate matter once in our lungs:

* Causes lung irritation and inflammation that will damage their effectiveness

* Will aggravate lung disease and could diminish heat function

* Results in lung tissue permeability

* Could result in blood clots and heart attacks

* May lead to pneumonia

Scientists calculate that the particulate matter in the vicinity of a tree is reduced by 7-24%.

Air pollution in northern China is a serious issue and has reduced the lifespan of its people on average by about three. years. Air pollution is so critical in China that thick smog interferes with a planes ability to land. The Western United States air quality suffers from Asia’s air pollution.

China has committed itself to a dramatic effort to solve its air pollution problem. Sixty thousand Chinese troops, which is an army regiment, have been ordered to plant permanently new forests. The cost of planting trees is the most efficient way of controlling air pollution.

China plans to grow thousands of acres of new forests annually. By 2020 China predicts that its woodlands that would cover 23% of its landmass. China predicts that its non-military staff would be eventually reduced by 300,000 troops whose primary mission would be planting trees.

Supported by Ara Chackerian

For centuries, few distinct groups of people thought about the environment on a global scale. Now that we have an understanding of how human actions impact our ecosystem, most people understand the importance of eco-health and want to treat the planet better. Below are some of the innovative ways that businesses and other organizations are trying to protect our environment in 2017.

1.Parting With Plastic

More businesses are swearing off plastic cups, utensils, bags and straws. The Lonely Whale Foundation has initiated the #StopSucking challenge, which asks consumers to give up disposable plastic straws. Americans waste 500 million plastic straws on a daily basis. That sounds like a lot, but it’s only a small portion of the 8.3 billion tons of plastic that rests in our waters and landfills. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimates that there will be more plastic than fish in our oceans by 2050.

Plastic products provide us with convenience, but there are usually better alternatives that serve the same purpose. For example, reusable metal straws are becoming popular. Reusable bags, water bottles and coffee mugs also save tons of waste from landfills each year.

2. Switching to Renewable Energy

Now that energy companies are finally moving toward using more sustainable energy sources such as wind and solar power, some are providing incentives for customers to make the switch. Depending on where you live, Green Mountain Energy may be able to help you go renewable even if you currently use another energy provider.

3.Creating New Coral

The world’s waters are getting warmer, which is killing coral across the globe. Because they are so vital to underwater ecosystems, the loss of coral reefs is causing chaos in our oceans. Fortunately, some smart scientists have created genetically engineered corals that are stronger than the species that are dying off, so hopefully we can repopulate the ocean floor.

4. Floating Wind Power

The best place to harness wind power is in the middle of the ocean, which is why floating wind farms will soon start popping up. The first one is currently in development off of Scotland’s coast, and about 40 more are in the works around the world. Of course, these structures could have a negative impact on nearby wildlife, so there must be measures put in place to protect aquatic animals.

5. Using Drones to Monitor the Environment

Many people associate drones with things like government airstrikes or surveillance, but they many actually have some positive uses. In New York, unmanned aircrafts are helping workers monitor oil spills and wildlife activity to help preserve natural habitats.

The Department of Environmental Conservation currently has a fleet of 22 drones patrolling New York’s skies. In addition to identifying oil spills in Staten Island, the drones have the ability to also track the growth of an invasive plant species across 200 acres of St. Lawrence County wetlands. Thanks to thermal sensors, they can also uncover subterranean bat hibernation sites during the snowy winters.

6. Carbon Footprint Calculators

Organizations like The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International have developed calculators to help you determine the size of your carbon footprint. By providing information about how you get around, how much energy you consume and what your shopping habits are like, you can know within minutes how you compare to others. Such calculators also provide advice for how to lessen your personal impact on the environment.

7. Offsetting Air Travel

Planes pump far more carbon into the air than vehicles, which is why airline companies are offering environmentally conscious customers ways to “offset” their trips. For example, some carriers allow flyers to donate a tree or contribute part of their plane ticket toward renewable energy initiatives. Jet Blue, American Airlines, and Delta all participate in such programs. If an airline doesn’t offer offsets, you can always purchase one from Native Energy or Cool Effect.

8. Petitioning Government Officials

Individuals are encouraged to lobby their local, state and federal representatives to support environmental initiatives such as protecting public lands and investing in clean energy. Calling public officials directly is the best way to go about it, but organizations such as the Sierra Club and the Environmental Defense Fund also have online form letters that you can send to congress. Don’t forget to add a personal touch in the form of a message about why environmental protection is important to you.

Sources:

1. https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/help-the-environment-in-the-next-hour
2. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/shortcuts/2017/sep/26/final-straw-follow-wetherspoons-ditch-plastics
3. https://www.northcountrypublicradio.org/news/story/34740/20170926/ny-deploys-drones-in-woods-beaches-to-protect-environment
4. http://www.isustainableearth.com/sustainable-living/environmental-trends-for-2017
5. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/15-surprising-environmental-trends-to-watch-in-2017/

Supported by Ara Chackerian

Environmental protection has become an increasingly crucial priority. The human population continues to grow, and scientists keep discovering more harmful effects of pollution. For instance, researchers recently learned that tiny plastic particles have contaminated massive amounts of drinking water. Businesses, governments and individuals must find new ways to safeguard the ecosystem. The latest trends in environmental protection could help improve the situation.

Artificial Leaves

Plant leaves began to collect and store solar power long before anyone even imagined photovoltaic panels or rechargeable batteries. They convert solar photons into sugars and use them as a long-term energy source. Humans have started to do the same with a new technology that creates “bionic leaves.” It uses solar rays, water and bacteria to generate a special type of alcohol. This fluid holds considerable amounts of energy and has the potential to power various machines.

Aquatic Robots

Invasive species often cause significant damage to the ecosystem. They can harm the water quality and kill numerous native animals. A new type of underwater robot uses electricity or poisonous substances to eliminate invasive sea creatures. The waterproof automatons recently began performing this task in two ocean locations; they target invasive starfish and lionfish. This project could help prevent further harm to the Great Barrier Reef.

Online Solutions

Although computer hardware consumes significant amounts of electrical power, it also plays a positive role. The internet continues to provide more and more methods to reduce an individual’s environmental impact and learn about new ways to achieve this goal. For example, computer users may estimate their personal environmental impact levels or buy carbon credits that compensate for specific actions.

Carbon Offsets

When people can’t avoid traveling long distances by car or airplane, they have the option to help the environment by purchasing carbon credits. Among other things, the money pays for projects that generate green energy, plant trees or protect undeveloped land. Many airlines have started to sell carbon offsets. Passengers can buy them when they book flights on Delta, United Airlines or Jet Blue planes.

Carbon Calculations

Various organizations have created online calculators that let people quickly assess their impact on the environment. Internet users can find these tools on the Conservation International and Environmental Protection Agency websites. They only need to provide some details about their personal shopping, energy and travel choices. The calculators supply helpful tips on ways to shrink a person’s carbon footprint.

Electricity Providers

A number of state governments recently began allowing Americans to choose the companies that supply electricity to their homes and businesses. Some firms exclusively provide green energy from hydroelectric, wind or solar plants. The internet makes it easy to find and compare them. However, it’s vital to read the fine print. An alternative electric supplier may charge higher rates or late fees.

Floating Wind Turbines

In 2016, workers began to construct the first major wind-power plant that floats. Alternative energy companies plan to build around 40 additional floating wind farms. Offshore locations experience high winds much more frequently than most inland sites, so the turbines can generate impressive amounts of power. Unfortunately, they also pose a danger to aquatic wildlife.

Last Straw

In September, British media reported that a chain of pubs will soon cease to supply customers with straws. Wetherspoon’s plans to eliminate these superfluous plastic tubes as 2017 comes to an end. It estimated that the decision would save about 70 million straws per year. This will stop decaying plastic from entering landfills and the environment.

Some individuals have decided to take similar action. A group known as the Lonely Whale Foundation urges the public to give up straws. It wants people to take a pledge to stop using them. Its website also provides easy ways to share this campaign on social media networks. The organization estimates that Americans throw away 3.5 billion straws every week. This not only depletes finite resources but pollutes the air and water.

Conserving Plastic

Some retailers have found ways to banish other wasteful uses of plastic. The major British supermarket chain Tesco recently stopped providing shoppers with disposable bags. A few smaller stores decided to completely eliminate plastic from their merchandise and packaging materials. Customers can minimize waste by avoiding single-serving food products, foam trays and disposable utensils. Some people bring reusable containers when they order takeout meals.

Green Drones

New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation utilizes 22 drones to gain valuable information that helps it protect the state’s ecosystem. These devices can quickly detect chemical spills from the air. They also enable officials to track the growth of invasive plants. Drones can even identify places where bats hibernate. They accomplish some of the same surveillance tasks as helicopters while producing far less pollution.

Supported by Ara Chackerian

Protecting the environment is the job of every citizen on the planet. Although more people start recycling every month, the amount of harmful waste cluttering landfills and oceans is alarming. According to scientists, the problems from plastic waste alone have caused irreversible damage to the planet. There are several ways for every person to help protect the environment for future generations.

Say Goodbye To Plastic

Make a commitment to stop buying plastic, and be conscientious when dining out. For example, avoid using plastic utensils or straws whenever possible. Bring metal cutlery from home when going out for fast food. Choose restaurants that use glassware or paper cups instead of disposable plastic. For those who like to pick up a cup of coffee every day, bringing a mug or thermos can cut down on waste. At home, avoid buying bottled beverages. When shopping at the grocery store, bring reusable shopping bags that can be recycled eventually. Just be sure to wash or disinfect them frequently.

One of the most common mistakes is buying reusable plastic containers for food storage. Although they are cheap and microwavable, the containers release toxins when they are heated. Spend a little more money to get reusable glass containers instead, and cover them with foil that can be recycled. Many home stores sell glass containers today since more consumers are conscientious about avoiding plastic. Avoid buying any type of plastic goods for babies.

Balance Carbon Footprint

Look for a free carbon footprint calculator online. Most people are surprised to see just how much impact one individual can have on the environment. To help offset personal impact, try to do something good after every necessary negative action. For example, when booking a long plane trip, donate some money to an organization that removes carbon from the environment. It also helps to donate to ocean cleanup organizations. If the budget is tight, consider donating some time instead of money. Help with beach cleanup or other environmental protection causes in the area. 

Research Local Energy Options

Some people have access to renewable energy where they live. Green Mountain Energy is one company that works with larger providers across the country to allow people to switch to renewable energy without actually switching to a new energy company. If renewable sources are not available in the area, contact state or local representatives. When more people contact representatives about setting up new green initiatives and using green energy, positive changes are more likely to happen sooner.

Educate Friends And Neighbors

Recycling centers and renewable energy are common in some neighborhoods in big cities. For those who live in a rural area or a neighborhood of a big city where living green is not popular, it is possible to be the voice of change. Contact environmental groups to ask for printed literature to distribute. Set up recycling drives or demonstrations to show people how to determine if an item is recyclable. Work with the mayor or a local representative to see if citywide initiatives are available. Use literature to help educate community members about everything from trash cleanup to green home improvements.

Stay Aware Of Current Events

Everyone remembers the famous oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico several years ago, which was the responsibility of BP. Oil spills still happen, and many incidents do not gain a lot of media coverage. Talk to friends and family members about environmental disasters. Not all people understand the impact that oil spills, nuclear plant accidents and other events have on the planet. If more people understand and know about these events, there will be more aware citizens who put pressure on their representatives to push for safer and greener energy solutions. Today, several organizations are using drones to monitor different parts of the country and the oceans to look for oil spills and other environmental hazards. This helps address problems before they become disasters.