May 9, 2024

🌳 Using litter for innovation

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Issue Nº 500

Thursday

“Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land.” – Aldo Leopold
In today's issue, we'll take a look at:
Did You Know?
More than __% of the Earth's surface is volcanic in origin.
Scroll to the bottom for the answer.
Making Good Use Of The World's Most Littered Item
Who knew the world's most littered item could pave the way for greener roads? In Slovakia, a novel initiative is transforming cigarette butts, a major environmental nuisance, into durable asphalt, offering a robust solution to two pressing issues: waste and road repair.

Each year, over 4.5 trillion cigarette butts litter our environment. These small offenders are packed with plastics and toxins that harm our ecosystems and wildlife. But Bratislava's forward-thinking waste management company is flipping the script by using these butts to enhance the asphalt that lines our streets.

Their process is straightforward; Special containers collect cigarette filters, which are then cleansed of toxins and transformed into fine fibers. These fibers are mixed into traditional asphalt materials, improving the durability and longevity of roads.

This isn't just about making use of waste. The initiative also reduces the asphalt industry's environmental footprint, traditionally high in emissions and pollutants. Plus, using recycled material lessens our reliance on new, petroleum-based resources.

What Slovakia has pioneered could set a global precedent, showing how cities can turn a pollution problem into a practical solution. So next time you see a cigarette butt, remember it could be part of the road beneath your feet—talk about full-circle sustainability!
A Special Paint That Can Save Us Energy
Did you know that a fresh coat of paint could be a secret weapon against urban heat? Engineers at Purdue University have developed what's being hailed as the world's whitest paint, which reflects more than 98% of sunlight. This isn't just a step up in paint technology; it's a giant leap for energy-saving and cooling our cities!

Imagine buildings dressed in this ultra-reflective paint, significantly reducing the need for air conditioning and decreasing urban heat. The paint's ability to reflect sunlight far exceeds that of traditional white paints and can lower temperatures on building surfaces by over 20°C, turning structures into cool havens during scorching summers.

This paint could soon transform rooftops and walls everywhere, making our cities cooler by literally reflecting the sun's energy into space. Plus, it's not just about keeping buildings cool; this innovative paint can decrease the surrounding air temperatures, making outdoor spaces more comfortable too.

By embracing this paint, we're rethinking how to tackle the heat island effect and cut down on energy use. It's a bright idea that might just help us paint our way to a cooler planet!
5 Ways Getting Out In Nature Today Will Boost Your Mood
  1. Sunshine Boost: Stepping outside exposes you to natural sunlight, which stimulates the production of serotonin, often called the "happy hormone." Even a brief exposure can uplift your mood and increase feelings of positivity.

  2. Nature's Therapy: Connecting with nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Whether it's a stroll in the park or sitting under a tree, immersing yourself in nature's beauty can provide a sense of calm and tranquility.

  3. Physical Activity: Whether it's a leisurely walk, a jog, or a bike ride, engaging in outdoor activities boosts endorphin levels, which are natural mood lifters. The release of endorphins during exercise can leave you feeling energized, revitalized, and more content.

  4. Fresh Air: Breathing in fresh air can improve oxygen levels in your bloodstream, leading to better brain function and increased alertness. It can also help clear your mind, reduce mental fatigue, and enhance overall cognitive function.

  5. Change of Scenery: Breaking away from the confines of indoor spaces and immersing yourself in new surroundings can provide a mental reset. Whether it's exploring a new neighborhood or simply sitting in a different spot outdoors, a change of scenery can invigorate your senses and boost your mood.

Another Way To Boost Your Mood
If you've ever struggled to enjoy cannabis due to the harshness of smoking or vaping, you're not alone. That’s why these new cannabis gummies caught our eye.

Mood is an online dispensary that has invented a “joint within a gummy” that’s extremely potent yet federally-legal. Their gummies are formulated to tap into the human body’s endocannabinoid system. 

Although this system was discovered in the 1990’s, farmers and scientists at Mood were among the first to figure out how to tap into it with cannabis gummies. Just 1 of their rapid onset THC gummies can get you feeling right within 5 minutes!

Thanks to Mood for sponsoring The Canopy.
5 Day Food Waste Challenge: Day 4
We're diving into Day 4 of our food waste challenge, and today's all about packing your own lunch. While dining out is a tasty treat, it can also add up as an unnecessary expense and contribute to plastic waste. Let's flip the script and pack our lunches!

Packing your lunch isn't just smart for your budget; it's a powerful step towards reducing your environmental impact. Every home-prepared meal is a win against the excessive packaging and potential food waste associated with eating out.

Worried about your busy morning rush? Here’s a simple hack: just make a bit extra the night before and use those dinner leftovers. Portion them into containers and pop them in the freezer. In the morning, just grab a container, toss it in your lunch bag, and you're set. By lunchtime, it’ll be thawed and ready to heat up.

Not only are you cutting down on waste, but you’re also giving yourself a daily dose of home comfort. Keep up the fantastic work; you’re making a difference with every packed lunch!
What Are Natural Collagen Sources?
Collagen, often referred to as the "glue" that holds the body together, is a vital protein found abundantly in various tissues, including skin, bones, and tendons. While our bodies naturally produce collagen, its production tends to decline with age, leading to various signs of aging, such as wrinkles, joint pain, and reduced skin elasticity.

However, fear not! Incorporating natural sources of collagen into your diet can help replenish your body's collagen stores and support overall health and vitality. Here are some of our favorite natural collagen sources:
  1. Bone Broth: Made by simmering bones and connective tissues, bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and amino acids that support skin, joint, and gut health.

  2. Fish: Fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines are excellent sources of collagen, particularly their skin and bones. Eating these parts or consuming fish collagen supplements can boost your collagen intake.

  3. Chicken Skin and Cartilage: Chicken skin and cartilage are packed with collagen. Including chicken thighs with skin or using chicken feet in soups and stews can provide a collagen-rich boost.

  4. Beef: Cuts of beef containing connective tissues, such as chuck roast and oxtail, are high in collagen. Slow-cooking these cuts or making dishes like beef tendon soup can help you obtain collagen.

  5. Egg Whites: Egg whites contain collagen-building amino acids like proline and glycine. Incorporating whole eggs or egg white-based dishes into your diet can support collagen synthesis.

  6. Gelatin: Derived from collagen-rich animal parts, gelatin is a versatile ingredient that can be used to make desserts, gummies, and snacks. It provides a concentrated source of collagen and essential amino acids.

  7. Shellfish: Shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster contain collagen in their shells and cartilage. Including shellfish in your diet or consuming shellfish-based supplements can contribute to your collagen intake.

  8. Berries and Citrus Fruits: These fruits are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis in the body.

Fuel Your Body Naturally with NativePath
Collagen is essential for healthy skin, joints, and bones, but most collagen supplements on the market are made from animal byproducts and contain artificial ingredients.

At NativePath, they believe in sourcing only the best ingredients for their products, and that’s why they offer a collagen powder that’s truly native—or as close to nature as humanly possible.

Why You'll Love It:

  • Full of Benefits: Each scoop delivers 10g of collagen for comprehensive support for your bones, joints, hair, skin, and nails.
  • Type 1 and Type 3 Collagen: Made of the essential collagen types, making up over 90% of what your body needs for optimal wellbeing.
  • Certified Grass-Fed and Pure: Their collagen comes from 100% happy, healthy, pasture-raised cows ensuring the highest quality without any growth hormones.
  • Flavorless, Odorless, and Clump-Free: Formulated for a seamless mixing experience, their unflavored collagen, effortlessly dissolving in your favorite beverage.
Carefully crafted from high-quality ingredients, this collagen offers a delightful taste that will leave you wanting more. With just two scoops a day, you'll fuel your day with a remarkable 20 grams of protein, providing the energy you need to conquer life at your best.

Embrace the pure power of nature with NativePath and embark on a journey to a healthier, more vibrant you.
Thanks to 
Reflections:
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  • Cat of the Day, Jolly Roger: Meet Jolly Roger, the grass-loving pirate of the backyard. You can find him sailing through the spring breeze with a...
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