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Move over, angel hair <keyword id="54935" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pasta" source="Orion">pasta</keyword> — there’s a new contender in town. Researchers have created the <keyword id="24099848" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="thinnest-spaghetti" source="keywords">thinnest spaghetti</keyword> ever, measuring just 372 nanometers across. That’s roughly 200 times thinner than a human hair! But this isn’t a culinary breakthrough — it’s a scientific one. This “nanopasta” holds promise for revolutionary applications in medicine and industry. <h2 style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:4pt;">A spaghetti revolution in the lab</h2>The spaghetti was made using electrospinning, a technique where an electric charge pulls a flour-based mixture through a needle to form nanofibers.: “To make spaghetti, you push a mixture of water and flour through metal holes,” explained co-author Dr. Adam Clancy. “In our study, we did the same except we pulled our flour mixture through with an electrical charge. It’s literally spaghetti but much smaller.” The strands are so fine they can’t be seen clearly with visible light and had to be measured using a scanning electron microscope. For comparison, the next thinnest known pasta is su filindeu — the “threads of God” from Sardinia — estimated to be about 400 microns wide. That makes this new creation 1,000 times thinner. <h2 style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:4pt;">Why make nanospaghetti?</h2>This isn’t pasta for your plate — it’s nanofiber science at its finest. Nanofibers are ultra-thin strands of material with many uses, such as wound healing. Nanofiber mats are highly porous, allowing water and moisture in while keeping bacteria out. They can also help with bone regeneration by acting as scaffolding for tissue growth, or for drug delivery, since their microscopic size allows for precise medical applications. “Nanofibers, such as those made of starch, show potential for use in wound dressings as they are very porous,” remarked co-author Professor Gareth Williams. “In addition, nanofibers are being explored for use as a scaffold to regrow tissue, as they mimic the extracellular matrix — a network of proteins and other molecules that cells build to support themselves.” Making nanofibers traditionally involves extracting and purifying starch, a resource-intensive process. The team found a greener solution by starting with flour, which is rich in starch. Dr. Clancy said: “Starch is a promising material to use as it is abundant and renewable — it is the second largest source of biomass on Earth, behind cellulose — and it is biodegradable, meaning it can be broken down in the body.” Using flour, however, wasn’t without its challenges. Impurities like proteins and cellulose made the mixture more viscous and harder to spin into fibers. To tackle this, the researchers used formic acid instead of water, as it breaks down the starch’s tightly packed helical structures. The acid evaporated during the process, leaving behind ultrathin strands of nanospaghetti. <h2 style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:4pt;">Not for your dinner table</h2>While this innovation is exciting, don’t expect it to replace your fettuccine anytime soon. Professor Williams points out that the nanospaghetti isn’t really as useful as pasta, sadly, as it would overcook in less than a second, before you could take it out of the pan. Instead, the team is focusing on the practical uses of nanospaghetti in fields like healthcare. Dr. Clancy added: “We’ve shown that a simpler way to make nanofibers using flour is possible. The next step would be to investigate the properties of this product. We would want to know, for instance, how quickly it disintegrates, how it interacts with cells, and if you could produce it at scale.” For now, this world-record-breaking spaghetti is a testament to the possibilities of nanotechnology. Whether it’s revolutionizing medicine or creating <keyword id="22184424" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="eco-friendly-materials" source="keywords">eco-friendly materials</keyword>, this tiny pasta proves that big things can come in very small packages The findings of this study have been published in Nanoscale Advances and can be accessed <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1039/D4NA00601A">here</a>.

Scientists have created the world’s thinnest spaghetti 200 times thinner than hair that overcooks in a second! Here’s why

As festival season rolls around, many people are excited about purchasing an <keyword id="19906970" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicle" source="keywords">electric vehicle</keyword> (EV) not just for the eco-friendly benefits but also for the attractive discounts. With the growing popularity of EVs — a third of car-aspirants plan to buy an EV this year, reveals a Way2News survey — one lingering concern that might cross your mind is the risk of the car catching fire. While EV fires are rare, they can still happen under certain conditions, so it's essential to understand the risks and know how to prevent them. <h2>Why do they burn?</h2>First and foremost, EV fires are most commonly linked to the lithium-ion batteries that power these vehicles. When an EV is involved in a crash, or if its battery is physically damaged in any way, there is a risk of what is known as "<keyword id="19981370" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="thermal-runaway" source="keywords">thermal runaway</keyword>." This happens when heat inside the battery cannot dissipate quickly enough, causing the cells to overheat and, in rare cases, ignite. Thankfully, EV manufacturers extensively test vehicles to minimise this risk, and incidents are exceedingly rare. In fact, statistics show that electric car fires are significantly less frequent than fires in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. A study from Sweden's Civil Contingencies Agency found that only 0.004% of EVs caught fire in 2022, compared to 0.08% for ICE cars. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113816837" title="PM E-DRIVE scheme with ₹10,900 crore outlay announced for electric vehicles" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>As such, the ambient temperature can also play a significant role in the safety and performance of EV batteries. Extreme heat can be particularly dangerous, as it increases the likelihood of the battery cells overheating and entering thermal runaway, which may lead to a fire. High temperatures can accelerate the chemical reactions within lithium-ion batteries, making them more prone to malfunctions. Therefore, it is important to avoid exposing your EV to prolonged high heat, such as parking it under direct sunlight for extended periods, especially in regions where temperatures soar during the summer. Regular maintenance of the battery's cooling system is also critical, as it ensures the battery stays within a safe operating range, preventing overheating and extending the battery's lifespan <h2>Charging and flooding</h2>Another key risk comes from improper charging practices. Overcharging the battery, or using poorly regulated, non-certified charging stations, can cause the battery to overheat. It's crucial that EV owners use certified, high-quality charging stations and follow manufacturer recommendations to avoid overloading the system. Many modern EVs come with software that automatically stops charging once the battery is full, but it’s always a good idea to avoid prolonged charging beyond the battery's capacity. Water exposure can also be hazardous for EVs, particularly in flood-prone areas. While most EVs are designed to handle a fair amount of moisture, saltwater exposure, such as during coastal floods, can create serious problems. Saltwater can corrode the battery and create short circuits, which might lead to fires long after the vehicle has been submerged. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113857238" title="Ron DeSantis said EVs could catch fire if caught up in Hurricane Helene. Experts say he&amp;#39;s right — and that you should take these steps to protect yourself." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, for example, there were reports of submerged EVs catching fire even days after the floodwaters receded. If you live in an area prone to flooding, take extra precautions by parking your EV in a sheltered area, and if your car has been exposed to water, have it inspected immediately. <h2>Those annoying software updates are important!</h2>It’s also important to stay updated on any recalls or software updates. EVs, like any other technology, may occasionally be subject to recalls due to manufacturing defects or safety concerns. Being proactive in checking for recalls can prevent potential issues from becoming dangerous. For instance, some EV models have had recall campaigns specifically to address battery-related risks, ensuring that any faulty cells are replaced before they pose a threat. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113315022" title="Waiting for the festive season to buy an EV? Cabinet approves PM E-Drive subsidising most EVs, sans electric cars" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Finally, while EV fires may capture attention when they happen, it’s essential to keep them in perspective. Despite the fear surrounding them, EV fires are much less common than fires in gasoline-powered cars. The data shows that EVs are about 80 times less likely to catch fire than their gasoline counterparts. When considering an EV purchase, focus on the safety features and proactive measures in place to keep you and your vehicle safe. With proper charging, regular inspections, and staying informed, you can confidently enjoy the benefits of your new EV this festive season!

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<keyword id="19905190" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ladakh" source="keywords">Ladakh</keyword>, often referred to as the "Land of High Passes," is a mesmerising region located in the northern part of India. Famous for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventurous activities, Ladakh is a dream destination for many travellers. If you're wondering where to go this summer, here are six compelling reasons why Ladakh should be at the top of your list. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Breathtaking Scenery" comment="subhead" text="Breathtaking Scenery">Breathtaking Scenery</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110122423" hostid="261" sizebytes="2105696" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Journey through Ladakh&amp;#39;s majestic landscapes, where every vista is a masterpiece of nature&amp;#39;s grandeur.&amp;lt;span class=&amp;quot;redactor-invisible-space&amp;quot;&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/span&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery you'll ever witness. From towering snow-capped peaks to vast expanses of barren desert, the landscape here is nothing short of spectacular. The crystal-clear blue skies contrast beautifully with the rugged terrain, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere that's perfect for exploration and photography. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Unique Culture and Traditions" comment="subhead" text="Unique Culture and Traditions">Unique Culture and Traditions</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110122433" hostid="261" sizebytes="2107482" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Dive into Ladakh&amp;#39;s rich cultural tapestry, where traditions come alive amidst breathtaking vistas&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>One of the most compelling reasons to visit Ladakh is to immerse yourself in its unique culture and traditions. The region is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Ladakhis, Tibetans, and Muslims, each with their own rich heritage. From colourful festivals and ancient monasteries to traditional music and dance performances, there's no shortage of cultural experiences to discover in Ladakh. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/article/10-best-tourist-places-to-visit-in-ladakh/articleshow/109555242.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Top 10 tourist places to visit in Ladakh</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Adventure Sports" comment="subhead" text="Adventure Sports">Adventure Sports</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110122458" hostid="261" sizebytes="1899536" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Embark on adrenaline-fueled escapades, from trekking rugged terrains to rafting down roaring rivers&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>If you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, Ladakh is the ultimate playground for adventure sports enthusiasts. Whether you're into trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, or mountain biking, there are plenty of thrilling activities to keep you entertained. The rugged terrain and challenging landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures that will get your heart racing and leave you with unforgettable memories. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/top-10-adventure-sports-across-india-where-to-experience-them-in-2024/slidelist/109857299.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Best adventure sports destinations in India</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Pristine Lakes" comment="subhead" text="Pristine Lakes">Pristine Lakes</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110122463" hostid="261" sizebytes="2339101" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Reflect by the tranquil shores of Ladakh&amp;#39;s pristine lakes, where serenity meets sublime beauty&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh holds some of the most stunning stunning high-altitude lakes in the world, including Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, and Tso Kar. These pristine bodies of water are renowned for their mesmerising blue hues and tranquil surroundings. Whether you're camping by the lakeside, enjoying a leisurely boat ride, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, a visit to Ladakh's lakes is sure to be a highlight of your trip. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Spiritual Retreat" comment="subhead" text="Spiritual Retreat">Spiritual Retreat</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110122480" hostid="261" sizebytes="2416939" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Find solace in Ladakh&amp;#39;s ancient monasteries, where spirituality and peace converge amidst Himalayan peaks&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ladakh offers a serene and spiritual retreat unlike any other. The region is dotted with ancient monasteries and Buddhist stupas, where monks chant prayers and perform rituals in the serene backdrop of the Himalayas. Whether you're a devout Buddhist or simply curious about spirituality, a visit to these sacred sites is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Eco-Tourism and Sustainability" comment="subhead" text="Eco-Tourism and Sustainability"><keyword id="21307311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="eco-tourism" source="keywords">Eco-Tourism</keyword> and Sustainability</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110122487" hostid="261" sizebytes="1773042" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Join Ladakh&amp;#39;s eco-tourism movement, where sustainable practices harmonise with the pristine environment for a greener tomorrow&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>In recent years, Ladakh has emerged as a pioneer in eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices. The local community is deeply committed to preserving the region's fragile ecosystem and traditional way of life. From eco-friendly accommodations and waste management initiatives to responsible tourism practices and conservation projects, Ladakh is leading the way in promoting environmentally sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and the local community. Ladakh is a destination like no other, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure, spirituality, and sustainability. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Ladakh has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and discover the magic of Ladakh this summer. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. What is the best time to visit Ladakh? Ladakh is best visited during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is relatively mild and most of the region's attractions are accessible. However, if you're interested in experiencing the famous Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River, the best time to visit is during the winter months, from January to February. 2. Is altitude sickness a concern in Ladakh? Yes, altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can be a concern when travelling to Ladakh due to its high elevation. It's essential to acclimatise gradually to the altitude by spending a few days in Leh, the main town of Ladakh, before venturing to higher elevations. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding strenuous activity, and consulting a healthcare professional before your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. 3. How do I get to Ladakh? The most common way to reach Ladakh is by air. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the main airport serving the region, with regular flights connecting Leh to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar. Alternatively, you can reach Ladakh by road via the scenic Manali-Leh Highway or the Srinagar-Leh Highway, both are operational during the summer months. 4. Do I need any permits to visit Ladakh? Yes, certain areas in Ladakh, especially those near the border with China and Pakistan, require permits for both Indian and foreign tourists. These permits, known as Inner Line Permits (ILPs) or Protected Area Permits (PAPs), can be obtained from the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) office in Leh or online through the official website. It's essential to obtain the necessary permits before venturing into restricted areas. 5. What should I pack for a trip to Ladakh? When packing for a trip to Ladakh, it's essential to pack layers of clothing to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures, which can range from hot during the day to cold at night. Other essential items include sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and any necessary medications for altitude sickness. Additionally, it's advisable to carry a first-aid kit, trekking gear if you plan to trek, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

6 reasons why you should visit Ladakh this summer

Chennai, Public sector major <keyword id="59700" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="coal-india-ltd" source="Orion">Coal India Ltd</keyword> (CIL) has chalked out Rs 24,750 crore investment for eco-friendly transportation of coal on 61 first mile connectivity (FMC) projects. The three phased investment project when completed will have a combined capacity of 763.5 million ton per annum (MTPA), the company said. FMC projects involve transportation of coal in mechanized piped conveyors from production point to coal handling plants/silos with rapid loading system where coal is loaded directly into <keyword id="1060490" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rail-wagons" source="Orion">rail wagons</keyword>. According to the company, 35 FMC projects under the first phase having 414.5 MTPA capacity account for Rs. 10,750 crores. Eight projects of 112 MTPA capacity are already operational. CIL is gearing up to commission 17 more projects of 178 MTPA by FY 2024 end. The rest 10 comprising 124.5 MTPA capacity are expected to be operative by FY 2025, the company said. The second and third phase projects account for nine and 17 respectively. While their respective evacuation capacities are 57 MTPA and 292 MTPA, the investments sequentially, would be about Rs 2,500 crore and Rs11,500 crore. Under the second phase five projects of 21.5 MTPA capacity under construction are expected to be commissioned by FY 2025. Remaining projects are in different stages of progress with tenders issued and bid documents under preparation. For the third phase, tenders have been floated for three projects of 65 MTPA capacity. Nine projects are to be executed through mine developers and operators. The third phase projects are anticipated to be commissioned by FY 2029. Total eco-friendly coal evacuation would go up to 914.5 MTPA when all the 61 projects become operational by FY 2029, including the earlier capacity of 151 MTPA. FMC projects offer benefits like suppression of dust pollution and carbon emissions and reduce the load on road transportation leading to safety. Other benefits include precise quantity and quality coal is loaded for consumers with minimal manual intervention.

Coal India to invest ₹24,750 crore on eco-friendly transportation

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Tourists globally are spending an average of one more day at destinations compared to 2019.</li><li>Longer vacations are more sustainable, reducing carbon emissions from fewer flights.</li></ul>Worldwide, vacations are getting longer.According to a recent study by <a target="_blank" href="https://mcdsstg.prod.acquia-sites.com/en/resources/expertise/travel2024-preview">Mastercard Economics Institute</a>, tourists around the globe are spending an average of one more day in destinations compared to 2019. In Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, people are extending their trips for two days longer than before the pandemic.This is good news — not just for vacationers — but for the health of the planet, as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-travel-more-sustainably-without-harming-destinations-2022-9">travel can be harmful to the environment</a>."We are in the biggest race of our time — race to net-zero carbon emissions," Paloma Zapata, the CEO of <a target="_blank" rel=" nofollow" href="https://sustainabletravel.org/">Sustainable Travel International,</a> previously told Business Insider. "And when we travel, we consume a lot of resources."<h2 id="c03bf39f-886b-4360-b2f8-18295af26742">Fewer, longer trips are more sustainable</h2><a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-travel-more-sustainably-practices-tips-2023-4">Sustainability experts</a> previously told BI that frequent, short trips are more harmful to the environment than <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/post-pandemic-travel-vacation-micro-trips-2021-1">fewer, longer trips</a>."Fewer but longer trips mean fewer air miles, more money in local hands, and you'll have a more relaxing trip, too," Justin Francis, the cofounder and CEO of the UK-based trip evaluation company <a target="_blank" href="https://www.responsibletravel.com/">Responsible Travel</a>, said.According to the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/fast-facts-transportation-greenhouse-gas-emissions">US Environmental Protection Agency</a>, 9% of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/could-carbon-passport-be-future-of-travel-2023-12">transportation carbon emissions</a> in 2022 came from air travel, and 57% came from light-duty vehicles. And according to Zapata, flights make up at least half of a trip's total carbon emissions.<div type="image" title="A plane flies in the sky against the background of green trees." height="1667" width="2500" msid="110185860" hostid="261" sizebytes="1502926"></div>If those extending their vacations are also taking fewer trips, they're ultimately booking fewer flights, reducing carbon emissions in the process.This is especially true for those traveling long distances, Jessica Blotter, CEO and cofounder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kindtraveler.com/">Kind Travel</a>, a public benefit corporation, told BI. She suggests stretching <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-and-worst-parts-about-first-long-distance-van-trip">long-distance trips</a> to maximize the experience so you won't crave another journey anytime soon."Booking multiple, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/long-haul-flights-not-worth-it-shorter-trips-2024-1">long-haul trips</a> per year is not sustainable or carbon-friendly," she said.If you want to be more eco-friendly while at your destination, experts also recommend staying at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sustainable-details-new-zealand-first-5-green-star-hotel-2023-2">sustainable hotels</a>, dining at locally-owned restaurants, and shopping for souvenirs crafted by locals.

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<ul class="summary-list"><li>Jillian Pretzel had a Christmas list of 20 people this year, so she decided to thrift her gifts.</li><li>At stores like Goodwill and the Salvation Army, she found new toys, picture frames, and books.</li></ul>A few weeks ago, as I shifted things around in my car to make room for my shopping bags, I knew my husband wouldn't give me side-eye about overspending on Christmas gifts when I came home. I'd just made some serious progress on my year-end goal of doing all my holiday shopping at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-secondhand-shopping-luxury-high-end-preloved-items-report-2023-4">secondhand stores</a>.This year my husband and I welcomed our second daughter. She reminded us of how wonderful it is to hold a tiny newborn — and how <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/diaper-prices-will-go-up-proctor-and-gamble-kimberly-clark-say-2021-4">expensive diapers can be</a>. We realized our family of four would have to be a little stricter with our finances.I also felt eco-guilt every time I bought a new toy or a new baby gadget. It's so easy and quick to order stuff online and have it shipped to my house, but I knew the things I bought and their packaging would probably end up in a landfill.<h2>I started shopping secondhand as much as possible</h2>I discovered that thrifting is a great way to save money and be eco-friendly.When I'd reach for my computer this year to order a new nursing cover or a toddler bike, I'd stop and go to the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/shoppers-say-goodwill-salvation-army-pricey-as-thrifting-becomes-cool-2023-3">Goodwill</a> by my house instead. Often I was happy I did.Not only was I glad to save money and help the environment, but I found treasures I wouldn't have thought to buy. I found the same kangaroo stuffed animal I used to love as a kid, pricy clothes for myself from Lululemon and Madewell, and antique home-decor pieces.<h2>I wondered whether I could do the same with Christmas presents</h2>I had a long Christmas list of 20 friends, family members, in-laws, and neighbors. I wondered if it would be possible to thrift my gifts.I searched through several nearby Goodwill stores, one Salvation Army, and a few boutique secondhand stores.When I started shopping, I was worried. I didn't want to seem tacky or make my friends and family think I was buying them something cheap. I loved the idea of finding special one-of-a-kind items rather than grabbing something on the shelves at every big-box store.In years past I'd get a box of wine and a half-dozen gift cards and distribute them to friends as necessary. Now I was hunting for something unique for each person. This required me to think about my loved ones and their tastes and pay attention when they mentioned something they liked or were interested in.When we went out to lunch one day, a friend said she was interested in learning to play chess. When I found a cool retro wooden chess set (with all the pieces!) I knew it was perfect. Another friend is obsessed with everything Disney, so I knew she'd love a beautiful vintage Mickey and Minnie snow globe.<h2>Some items make great thrifts; others, not so much</h2>While I'm more than happy to thrift clothes for myself and my family, I was hesitant about buying clothes to give as gifts. I stuck to buying home goods, decor, games, and other non-wearables. Everything I bought was in good condition, but I did clean things before gifting them.Books became my favorite gift to thrift. My family has a tradition of getting everyone a book to read on Christmas Eve, and I used to spend at least $100 on reading materials. I bought many great books at thrift stores for just a dollar.I also like to give relatives framed family pictures. I scored a collection of beautiful wooden frames — a major upgrade from the plastic ones I usually bought. These heavy frames look expensive but cost only a few bucks. I saved another $50 at least.I was also on the lookout for vases. I like to bring flowers as host gifts, but getting bouquets arranged in vases can be expensive. I started picking up vases in thrift shops that matched my friends' or relatives' home styles and filling them with flowers in plastic wrapping. I spent about $10 on flowers with thrifted vases rather than $30 or $40 on bouquets.I bought a lot of great toys for my kids. My 3-year-old is obsessed with "Frozen," and I was excited to score an Elsa doll that usually costs $30 for $5.I also bought a few unopened rolls of wrapping paper from the thrift store and a bunch of baskets to put gifts in. Last year I spent $60 on gift bags and wrapping paper. This year I spent about $20.<h2>Shopping secondhand was a lot harder than I thought</h2>Though my goal was to buy everything secondhand, I didn't quite achieve it.There were a couple of small gifts for family members I saw at the grocery store or online that I couldn't pass up. When I was picking up bananas at Target, I saw a pair of yoga pants that screamed one friend's name. For my niece and nephew across the country, it was easier to order a gift online and have it shipped to their house. And I knew my kids' tween cousins really only wanted cash.Still, I'm proud of the thrifts I found. My Christmas budget last year was $500. With a second child, I was expecting to spend $600 this year buying everything new. By thrifting most of my gifts, I spent about $275, so I saved $325.

I saved over $300 by shopping secondhand for Christmas. My unique, eco-friendly gifts were worth the search.

<ul class="summary-list"><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/shark-attack-victim-trolled-founded-survivor-group-bite-club-2023-10">Shark bites</a> are very rare, but they can be fatal.</li><li>The SharkSafe Barrier uses magnets to deter sharks from areas with swimmers.</li></ul>Earlier this month, a woman paddleboarding in the Bahamas was killed by a shark, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/04/americas/bahamas-shark-attack-boston-woman/index.html">CNN reported</a>.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/florida-county-shark-bite-attack-capital-of-the-world-2023-9">Fatal shark attacks</a> are incredibly rare but still a real concern for swimmers, surfers, and other ocean users. That said, nets used to deter sharks are a major concern for the animals.An average of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aims.gov.au/docs/projectnet/sharks-02.html">10 people</a> die from shark attacks each year whereas <a target="_blank" href="https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/sharks-rays/protecting-sharks-how-nets-hurt">tens of thousands</a> of sharks have died over the decades from barrier nets designed to keep them out of popular coastal waters.That's where the SharkSafe Barrier comes in, which uses a completely different approach to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/scientists-shocked-juvenile-white-sharks-swim-near-humans-dont-attack-2023-6">deter sharks</a> with magnetic fields that could save both shark and human lives.<h2>A barrier that can protect both humans and sharks</h2>The Bahamas <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2019/04/01/how-shark-sanctuaries-sparked-a-conservation-movement">designated</a> its waters as a shark sanctuary in 2011, which has helped make it the shark diving capital of the world, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sheddaquarium.org/about-shedd/leadership/research-experts/steven-kessel-ph-d">Steven Kessel</a>, director of marine research at the Shedd Aquarium, told Business Insider."<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/hawaii-tiger-sharks-attack-sink-boat-netflix-film-crew-2023-6">Tiger sharks</a>, bull sharks, and hammerheads are very prevalent there, and people really travel from all over the world to reliably dive with those species," he said.The designation also means that any mechanism for deterring sharks in Bahama's waters must be safe for the animals, too, making it a prime spot to test out SharkSafe Barrier.Over the summer, divers <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10273">installed</a> 98 feet of polyethylene pipes, cement blocks, and magnets around a private island's beach enclosure in the Bahamas' Berry Islands."Sharks are sensitive to magnetic fields because they have a special organ called ampullae of Lorenzini distributed around their eyes and nose," Sara Andreotti, the COO of SharkSafe Barrier told Business Insider via email.Therefore, the presence of a strong magnet could potentially overwhelm that system, Kessel said. He compared it to a person getting a whiff of smelling salts, "a real shock to the system," he said.The magnets probably wouldn't affect most other marine animals, though they might be put off by the physical barrier itself, Kessel said.Another major benefit of the barrier is the way it looks."It looks like a thick forest of kelp," which sharks don't usually like to enter, Andreotti said.<h2>Why are shark nets deadly?</h2><div type="image" title="A tiger shark swims close to the camera in the Bahamas." height="2848" width="4288" msid="106166077" hostid="261" sizebytes="281124"></div>Traditional shark nets have been used in waters off of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/where-shark-attacks-happen-most-world-us-australia-florida-2023-9">parts of Australia</a> and South Africa for decades. Critics <a target="_blank" href="https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1006460">call</a> them "walls of death.""They have large mesh designed to trap and suffocate marine animals" when their gills become caught, Andreotti said."Many species of sharks need to swim to breathe, to respirate," Kessel said. "So when you restrict their movement, they essentially suffocate."The stress of getting caught can also be fatal, he said. Predators get easy access to entangled prey, too.And sharks aren't the only victims. The nets also capture rays, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/twitter-people-think-killer-whales-are-orcanizing-with-dolphins-2023-6">marine mammals</a>, and large fish, Kessel said.Instead of trapping sharks, SharkSafe's magnetic barrier is supposed to repel them.<h2>A barrier that offers peace of mind</h2>Andreotti helped develop the SharkSafe technology, combining two ideas from Michael Rutzen, a South African cage diver, and marine biologist Craig Patrick O'Connell.Rutzen envisioned an artificial kelp barrier to keep sharks away from humans, and O'Connell wanted to use magnets for the same purpose.O'Connell has since left the SharkSafe Barrier company and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/melissacristinamarquez/2022/04/02/the-future-of-the-sharksafe-barrier-doesnt-look-too-bright/">told Forbes</a> last year that he doesn't think magnetic deterrents are an effective solution for sharks. The company told Forbes it disagrees with his assessments.Andreotti said the company ultimately hopes to replace shark nets in South Africa and Australia and culling programs that kill sharks in other parts of the world.Kessel said he thinks a truly motivated shark might be able to get through such a barrier, but he would love to see a safe shark-net alternative."The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/shark-attacks-what-are-odds-of-getting-bitten-2018-7">chances of getting bitten</a> randomly by a shark in the wild are so, so small that I think you can provide peace of mind with something like this," he said.

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