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Nanoplastics and microplastics (NMPs) are sneaky invaders, hiding in the tap water we drink every day. These tiny fragments of plastic have already been linked to unsettling changes in gut health and antibiotic resistance, raising alarm bells about their impact on our bodies. But here’s some refreshing news: scientists have discovered a surprisingly simple solution — boiling your water.<br /><h2>A kitchen hack for cleaner water</h2>Researchers, led by biomedical engineer Zimin Yu, have found that boiling water and then filtering it can remove up to 90% of nanoplastics and microplastics from tap water. “This simple boiling water strategy can 'decontaminate' NMPs from household tap water and has the potential for harmlessly alleviating human intake of NMPs through water consumption,” the team explains.<br /><br />Even better? You probably already have the tools you need in your kitchen: a pot to boil water and a simple stainless steel mesh to filter out any leftover bits.<br /><h2>How does it work?</h2>The trick lies in the build-up of limescale — or calcium carbonate — when water is heated. If you’ve ever peeked inside a kettle, you’ve seen this chalky layer. When water is boiled, calcium carbonate naturally precipitates out of the solution, forming a crust. This crust traps NMPs on its surface, making it easier to filter them out.<br /><br />“Our results showed that nanoplastic precipitation efficiency increased with increasing water hardness upon boiling,” the researchers write. For example, in soft water (low in calcium carbonate), the process managed to remove about 25% of NMPs. Meanwhile, in hard water (higher calcium carbonate levels), the process removed up to 90% of NMPs.<br /><h2>The harder the water, the better the results</h2>Hard water, often considered a nuisance because of limescale, might actually be a secret weapon against microplastics. The researchers found that the harder the water, the more effective the boiling process was at capturing and removing plastic fragments.<br /><br />In water containing 300 mg/L of calcium carbonate, NMP removal reached an impressive 90%. Even at lower levels, such as 80 mg/L, over a third of the plastics were filtered out.<br /><br />Using a simple tea strainer or other household filters, these lime-encrusted plastic fragments can be easily removed before the water is consumed.<br /><h2>Why it matters</h2>Microplastics aren’t just a problem for the planet — they’re becoming an intimate part of our daily lives. Previous studies have identified plastics like polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene in drinking water. While the long-term effects on human health remain uncertain, the evidence suggests we’re better off without them.<br /><br />“Drinking boiled water apparently is a viable long-term strategy for reducing global exposure to NMPs,” the researchers say.<br /><br />For many, boiling water before drinking it is already a cultural norm. But the researchers hope their findings will encourage more people worldwide to adopt this practice as plastics continue infiltrating our water sources.<br /><br />The findings of this research have been published in <em>Environmental Science &amp; Technology Letters </em>and can be accessed <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.4c00081">here</a>.<br />

Worried about the harmful microplastics in your water? You just need to boil and strain it before consumption

When it comes to talking to children, many of us might instinctively simplify or even "dumb down" our language. But treating kids like they’re incapable of handling complexity can be more damaging than we realise. This practice, often labelled as "<keyword id="23912121" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="infantilisation" source="keywords">infantilisation</keyword>," stems from a form of age-based bias known as <em>adultism</em>, where society assumes that children lack the capability to engage meaningfully with complex issues. Yet, research increasingly suggests that children, if given the chance, can think critically, contribute insights, and show remarkable understanding — even on major topics like environmental ethics and social justice.<br /><h2>Full-fledged citizens</h2>Infantilising children can have several negative consequences, including undermining their self-confidence, stifling independence, and causing emotional dependence. Natalie M. Fletcher, a philosophy professor, argues that infantilising children restricts their potential to become active contributors in society. "Children are full-fledged citizens and not just future members of society," she points out. She highlights that children often have valuable perspectives, particularly on issues like friendship, where their thoughts are sometimes more nuanced than adults’ because these relationships are central to their lives.<br /><br />In her work, Fletcher emphasises that denying children the chance to engage in thoughtful dialogue can lead to the exclusion of a valuable dimension of knowledge and understanding, limiting society as a whole. Encouraging philosophical dialogue in children can empower them to see themselves as agents of change rather than passive future citizens.<br /><h2>Kids need complex conversations</h2>Infantilisation not only hinders mental and emotional development but also impacts children's ability to think independently. Experts warn that children constantly treated as incapable of handling complexity may struggle to develop essential skills like critical thinking and self-reliance. They might become overly dependent on authority figures, leading to low self-esteem and a reduced sense of autonomy as they mature. Encouraging children to express themselves and engage with challenging topics, on the other hand, supports their social and emotional growth, fostering resilience and independence.<br /><br />Additionally, infantilising children often stems from a desire to shield them from life’s complexities, particularly from “adult” topics like <keyword id="6361617" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-change" source="Orion">climate change</keyword>. Fletcher argues, however, that children should be allowed to discuss issues like environmental justice, as they are the ones who will ultimately inherit the outcomes of today’s decisions. Children dealing with eco-anxiety, for example, benefit from having open dialogues about environmental concerns, which helps them feel empowered rather than overwhelmed.<br /><h2>Raising independent thinkers, not passive followers</h2>In Fletcher’s educational charity, Brila, children as young as five engage in philosophical discussions that promote critical thinking and active listening. This approach has been shown to help children view themselves as proactive thinkers. While parents may feel compelled to protect their kids from "too much too soon," providing age-appropriate explanations can prevent feelings of helplessness, giving kids the tools they need to become thoughtful, capable adults.<br /><br />As adults, fostering independence and <keyword id="23912120" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="critical-thinking-in-children" source="keywords">critical thinking in children</keyword> means embracing their ability to understand more than we may expect. Treating kids like the complex, capable individuals they are doesn't just support their growth — it strengthens society as a whole. Encouraging kids to share their thoughts and respecting their input can lead to a future generation that's better equipped to face and solve the challenges of tomorrow.<br />

Talking to your child like they’re a kid? Here’s why you might be doing more harm than good

Imagine a volcano so special that it’s been granted the same legal rights as a person. While this might sounds like something straight out of a quirky sci-fi movie, this is no fictional tale. It’s a real, living, breathing part of New Zealand’s landscape — <keyword id="24070380" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mount-Taranaki" source="keywords">Mount Taranaki</keyword>.<br /><br />Tucked away on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Mount Taranaki is not only a towering 8,261 feet (2,518 meters) of volcanic might, but it also holds a sacred place in the hearts of local Māori tribes. In 2017, New Zealand made history by granting the volcano <keyword id="19969897" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="legal-personhood" source="keywords">legal personhood</keyword> — a first in the country. This means Mount Taranaki has the same legal rights as you, me, or any other human being. No, it can’t file taxes or sue anyone just yet, but it is now legally protected in a way that’s tied directly to the cultural significance it holds.<br /><h2>Why does Mount Taranaki get all the attention?</h2>First, let’s talk about the volcano itself. Its snow-capped peak is stunning, poking up through a lush, dark green forest. This forest, known as Egmont National Park, forms a near-perfect circular ring around the volcano, and within it, you’ll find the curious "<keyword id="24070386" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="goblin-forest" source="keywords">Goblin Forest</keyword>." The kāmahi trees here are twisted and warped, growing around fossilized tree remains from past eruptions. The trees are also covered in hanging moss and liverworts, giving the whole place a hauntingly magical vibe.<br /><br />The volcano itself is a near-perfect cone, which is so symmetrical it served as the double for Mount Fuji in The Last Samurai (yes, Hollywood can’t get enough of this beauty!). But don’t let its picturesque shape fool you — Mount Taranaki has been through some serious transformations. Over the past 135,000 years, it has erupted multiple times, changing its shape dramatically and leaving behind signs of its violent past. In fact, studies suggest there have been at least 16 major shifts in the volcano’s structure. Talk about a dramatic personality!<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="115475455" title="From skin injections to swallowing a camera, here are some things Bryan Johnson has done to age in reverse" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>And yes, Mount Taranaki is an <keyword id="23386638" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="active-volcano" source="keywords">active volcano</keyword>. While its last major eruption occurred about 200 years ago, the mountain is far from dormant. Scientists estimate there’s a 30% to 50% chance of a major eruption within the next 50 years. For the 100,000+ people living nearby, this is a real concern. But don't worry — the volcano isn’t planning on exploding any time soon (hopefully), though it does occasionally spit out volcanic mudflows, also known as lahars.<br /><h2>A sacred ancestor</h2>Now, you might wonder, why does this mountain get its own legal rights? The answer lies with the Māori people. For centuries, the Māori have considered Mount Taranaki to be more than just a mountain. They see it as a relative, even an ancestor. The relationship between the Māori people and the mountain is rooted in deep respect and cultural significance. In 2017, the New Zealand government recognized this profound connection by giving the volcano legal personhood, meaning that harming the volcano could be treated the same as harming a member of the tribe.<br /><br />It’s a powerful statement of the Māori worldview, where the land, mountains, rivers, and nature are seen as living, breathing entities deserving of respect and protection. By granting Mount Taranaki personhood, New Zealand is acknowledging this deep-rooted cultural connection and ensuring that the volcano’s rights are taken seriously.<br /><br />Having a mountain with human rights may sound like a quirky twist, but it’s part of a larger global movement towards recognizing the rights of nature. Similar legal actions have been taken in places like Ecuador and India, where rivers, forests, and even specific animals have been granted personhood to ensure their protection.<br />

Do you know about the volcano that has the same rights as a human person?

We often think of skincare as a pampering ritual, an opportunity to nourish our skin and express our individuality. But as recent research from the University of Birmingham reveals, some of the popular “leave-on” products we use daily — like sunscreens, moisturisers, and lip balms — might be doing more harm than good. Specifically, <keyword id="19970180" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="microplastics" source="keywords">microplastics</keyword> in these products are flying under the radar, raising serious concerns about both environmental and health implications.<br /><br />While most regulatory frameworks have targeted rinse-off products — think face washes and shampoos—leave-on products have received scant attention. This oversight is alarming, especially considering that microplastics, which can be tiny plastic particles or fibres, are prevalent in many of our favorite skincare staples. Dr. Anna Kukkola, a researcher at the University of Birmingham, notes, “The contribution of ‘leave-on’ cosmetics to microplastic pollution is a critical, yet underexplored aspect of environmental contamination.”<br /><br />In their critical review, the researchers analysed 2,381 products and found that only two were classified as leave-on. This glaring gap can be attributed to several factors: the challenges in extracting microplastics from complex formulations and the prevailing public perception that the microplastic issue has been adequately addressed due to bans on rinse-off products. But the truth is, leave-on products could be significant contributors to the microplastic problem.<br /><h2><keyword id="19977451" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-risks" source="keywords">Health risks</keyword> of microplastics</h2>The health implications of daily exposure to microplastics in leave-on products remain largely uncharted territory. With limited research on how these particles interact with our skin after application, the potential for absorption into our bodies — through mechanisms such as hair follicles and sweat ducts — raises red flags. Dr. Kukkola emphasises this point, stating, “Given how much of these formulas our bodies can and do absorb, it is concerning that little to no research has taken place to investigate the associated health effects.”<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114327120" title="An expert in how microplastics affect our health does 6 things to avoid them at home" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Another critical insight from the study is the misuse of the term “microbeads.” Typically associated with rinse-off products, this term has been inaccurately applied to all microplastics in cosmetics, resulting in regulatory blind spots. This mislabeling has skewed global legislation towards rinse-off products, leaving a significant portion of the microplastic contamination from leave-on products unregulated.<br /><h2>Call for action and future research</h2>The researchers are not just pointing out problems; they are advocating for solutions. Collaborative efforts are underway to develop new methods for extracting and analysing microplastics in <keyword id="23630244" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="leave-on-cosmetics" source="keywords">leave-on cosmetics</keyword>. This initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Sophie Comer-Warner from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Professor Iseult Lynch, aims to fill the critical knowledge gaps identified in the study.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114375709" title="Standing desks may not be a boon for health after all" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Professor Lynch warns, “While the microplastics themselves might be relatively benign, a number of other chemicals are intrinsically bound into or onto the microplastics in complex leave-on formulations, including potentially PFAS, plasticisers, and other chemicals known to be either carcinogens or endocrine disruptors.”<br /><br />As we lather on our moisturisers and slather on <keyword id="19944313" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sunscreen" source="keywords">sunscreen</keyword>, it’s crucial to be aware of what we’re putting on our skin. The <keyword id="20724496" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="beauty-industry" source="keywords">beauty industry</keyword> is evolving, and with it, our understanding of safety and <keyword id="20224419" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="environmental-impact" source="keywords">environmental impact</keyword> must grow. It’s time to advocate for better regulations and more research on the unseen dangers of our beloved leave-on <keyword id="20521267" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="skincare-products" source="keywords">skincare products</keyword>. By staying informed and demanding transparency from manufacturers, we can ensure that our beauty routines don’t come at the expense of our health or the environment.<br /><br />The findings of this research have been published in the <em>Journal of Hazardous Materials </em>and can be accessed <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135053">here</a>.

Popular leave-on cosmetics such as sunscreen and lip balms may pose a hidden microplastic risk, scientists warn

Hit-making singer <keyword id="19939537" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Katy-Perry" source="keywords">Katy Perry</keyword> is no stranger to controversy, but this time, it’s not her music that’s drawing criticism. Instead, it’s the location of her latest music video for the single "<keyword id="22785007" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lifetimes" source="keywords">Lifetimes</keyword>" that has sparked a public outcry. On August 13, <keyword id="22785006" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Spanish-authorities" source="keywords">Spanish authorities</keyword> announced an investigation into the production of the video, which was partially filmed on the protected dunes of S'Espalmador, a picturesque islet in the <keyword id="20202350" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Balearic-Islands" source="keywords">Balearic Islands</keyword>.<br /><br />These dunes are among the most ecologically significant areas in the Balearics, known for their fragile environment. The Balearic Islands' Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment revealed that the production team behind the video did not obtain the necessary authorisation to film in this sensitive area.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111125157" title="Katy Perry worked with Dr. Luke on her new album, despite Kesha&amp;#39;s allegations of sexual abuse" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In the video, Perry can be seen dancing on the beach among the very dunes that are now at the centre of the controversy. The video then transitions to a nighttime party scene in the clubs of nearby <keyword id="22091639" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ibiza" source="keywords">Ibiza</keyword>. While Perry herself didn’t trespass into a roped-off area, the issue lies in the production company’s failure to secure the required permits.<br /><br />The Ministry clarified in a statement that "in no case had the production company requested authorisation from the Ministry to carry out the filming, and that is why preliminary investigation actions have been initiated." However, the statement also noted that while the incident is under investigation, it is not considered a criminal offence but rather a potential <keyword id="22785005" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="environmental-infringement" source="keywords">environmental infringement</keyword>.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112412893" title="Katy Perry has released 2 stale songs and is in a &amp;#39;career crisis.&amp;#39; A PR expert says her comeback can still be salvaged — if she does it right" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>The law governing the area states, "The filming of photographic reports, cinematographic, videographic, or of any other kind that involve the taking of images in any medium and format with an advertising or commercial exhibition purpose requires the express authorisation of the competent ministry for the environment." This regulation is designed to protect delicate ecosystems from the potential impact of commercial activities.<br /><br />As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what consequences, if any, Perry or her production team will face. The incident has sparked debate about the responsibilities of artists and their teams to ensure that their work does not harm the environment, especially in protected areas.<br />

Katy Perry is being accused of environmental infringement by Spanish authorities over shooting "Lifetimes" music video near a protected area

In a massive move for the country’s growing climate woes, India is aiming to control weather phenomena like rainfall, lightning, and hail within five years. Dubbed "<keyword id="23131560" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mission-Mausam" source="keywords">Mission Mausam</keyword>," this government-backed initiative includes the development of <keyword id="23148975" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mausam-GPT" source="keywords">Mausam GPT</keyword>, a weather AI model designed to enhance prediction accuracy and even manipulate the weather. This would make India one of the first countries to experiment with <keyword id="21369368" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="weather-modification" source="keywords">weather modification</keyword> on a significant scale.<br /><h2>Mission Mausam</h2>India’s "Mission Mausam" aims to reshape the future of weather management by using technology to control rain. Over the next 18 months, the government will start with lab simulations to either enhance or suppress rainfall. The ultimate goal, as outlined by Earth Sciences Secretary M. Ravichandran, is to roll out full-scale weather modification within five years. He stated that the initiative could even target events like Independence Day, where “one can think about suppressing rain.”<br /><br />By deploying <keyword id="20644540" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cloud-seeding" source="keywords">cloud seeding</keyword> techniques alongside AI-driven weather prediction tools like "Mausam GPT," the mission seeks to significantly improve India’s ability to manage extreme weather conditions. A key aspect of the plan involves building a robust system of advanced radars, supercomputers, satellites with high-performance sensors, and GIS-based decision support systems. This cutting-edge tech is expected to boost India’s short- and medium-range weather forecasting accuracy by 5-10%, ensuring no event — such as cloudbursts — goes undetected.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113251187" title="India braces for an intensely harsh winter as La Niña takes hold" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>India is not new to weather manipulation efforts. The government has been running pilot projects, such as the Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX) in Maharashtra, to study cloud properties and enhance rainfall.<br /><h2>Why is weather manipulation necessary and is it safe?</h2>Extreme weather events in India, like deadly floods, droughts, and hailstorms, have noticeably increased in frequency due to <keyword id="19907392" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-change" source="keywords">climate change</keyword>. Mission Mausam could potentially give India an edge in combating these disasters. For example, imagine preventing a flood by suppressing rain or creating artificial rain during a drought. India’s investment of Rs 2,000 crore over two years certainly reflects the seriousness of the mission, which is expected to expand further as research progresses.<br /><br />However, weather modification, including cloud seeding, is not without controversy. Globally, cloud seeding has had limited success, with countries like the US, Russia, and China also experimenting with these methods but facing inconsistent results. Even former MoES Secretary Madhavan Rajeevan has noted that “the technology is complex” and still in its developmental stages.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112825937" title="Shivaji Maharaj Statue collapse: Identifying 5 reasons behind the accident" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Further, the potential downsides can't be ignored. While controlling the weather could save lives, meddling with natural processes is risky. Weather manipulation might have unintended ecological consequences, like shifting rainfall patterns that could harm ecosystems and agriculture. It may also pose geopolitical risks, as neighbouring countries could accuse India of altering weather systems that affect their own climates.<br /><br />Ultimately, while the idea of managing the weather may seem appealing, it opens up a Pandora’s box of environmental and ethical challenges that need careful consideration.<br />

The Indian government is taking steps to control rainfall and weather within five years — is it too risky of a move?

All Indian <keyword id="19926225" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="salt" source="keywords">salt</keyword> and <keyword id="20109149" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sugar" source="keywords">sugar</keyword> brands, whether big or small, packaged or unpackaged, contain <keyword id="19970180" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="microplastics" source="keywords">microplastics</keyword>, according to a study published on Tuesday. The study, titled "Microplastics in Salt and Sugar" and conducted by the <keyword id="22774411" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="environmental-research-organisation" source="keywords">environmental research organisation</keyword> <keyword id="21593811" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Toxics-Link" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Toxics Link" meta.hostid="281" meta.entityid="Toxics Link">Toxics Link</keyword>, tested 10 types of salt -- including table salt, rock salt, <keyword id="158885" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sea-salt" source="Orion">sea salt</keyword> and local raw salt -- and five types of sugar purchased from both online and local markets. <br /><br />The study revealed the presence of microplastics in all salt and sugar samples, in various forms, including fibre, pellets, films and fragments. The size of these microplastics ranged from 0.1 mm to 5 mm. <br /><br />The highest levels of microplastics were found in <keyword id="630077" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="iodised-salt" source="Orion">iodised salt</keyword>, in the form of multi-coloured thin fibre and films. <br /><br />Toxics Link founder-director Ravi Agarwal said, "The objective of our study was to contribute to the existing scientific database on microplastics, so that the global plastic treaty can address this issue in a concrete and focused manner." <br /><br />"We also aim to trigger policy action and attract researchers' attention to potential technological interventions that could reduce exposure risks to microplastics." <br /><br />Toxics Link associate director Satish Sinha added, "Our study's finding of substantial amounts of microplastics in all salt and sugar samples is concerning and calls for urgent, comprehensive research into the long-term health impacts of microplastics on human health." <br /><br />The concentration of microplastics in the salt samples ranged from 6.71 to 89.15 pieces per kilogramme of dry weight, the report said. Iodised salt had the highest concentration of microplastics (89.15 pieces per kilogramme) while organic rock salt had the lowest (6.70 pieces per kilogramme), according to the study. <br /><br />In sugar samples, the concentration of microplastics ranged from 11.85 to 68.25 pieces per kilogramme, with the highest concentration found in non-organic sugar. Microplastics are a growing global concern because they can harm both health and the environment. These tiny plastic particles can enter the human body through food, water and air. <br /><br />Recent research has found microplastics in human organs such as the lungs, heart, and even in breast milk and unborn babies. Previous studies found that the average Indian consumes 10.98 grams of salt and around 10 spoons of sugar every day -- much higher than the <keyword id="19896311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-health-organization" source="keywords">World Health Organization</keyword>'s recommended limits.

All Indian salt and sugar brands have microplastics, notes a recent study

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Biotech company Neoplants just released the first houseplant grown to reduce indoor air pollution.</li><li>This plant, called Neo Px, gets its pollution-eating superpower from genetically engineered bacteria.</li></ul><p>Looking at Neo Px, you'd never know that it was anything but a typical houseplant. But on a microscopic level, this plant is supercharged with billions of pollution-eating bacteria.</p><p>This week, the France-based biotech company Neoplants released the first houseplant bioengineered to remove harmful chemicals from indoor air. It targets <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/silicone-hair-products-may-release-harmful-emissions-new-study-2023-12">volatile organic compounds (VOCs)</a>, which are emitted by the everyday stuff in our homes: gas stoves, paints, even furniture.</p><div type="image" title="A marbled pothos house plant potted in a special pot designed by Neoplants sits on a small table with more plants against a window in the background." height="4000" width="6000" msid="109738533" hostid="261"></div><p>Indoor air can be two to five times (and in extreme cases, up to 100 times) more polluted than outdoor air, according to the American Lung Association. This is, in part, driven by higher levels of VOCs indoors. Long-term exposure to these compounds can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches and dizziness, even liver damage and cancer.</p><p>The best ways to remove VOCs from your home are opening the windows and getting rid of their sources, Glenn Morrison, a University of North Carolina environmental science and engineering professor who studies indoor air pollution, told BI. Some types of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/home/best-air-purifier">mechanical air purifiers</a> can remove them too, but many of them can produce other harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide, ozone, and formaldehyde.</p><p>But Neoplants co-founders Patrick Torbey and Lionel Mora weren't satisfied with these options. They argue that opening windows only temporarily reduces indoor pollution to outside levels, and not everyone can easily get rid of VOC sources in their homes. What's more, they believe existing VOC-removing technologies aren't worth their drawbacks.</p><p>So, they turned to biology to invent their own solution. The result, Neo Px, is 30 times more effective at removing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/home/how-to-improve-indoor-air-quality">indoor air pollution</a> than the average houseplant, Torbey and Mora told Business Insider.</p><p>"What we care about is putting nature at the center of innovation again," Torbey said.</p><h2>Harnessing the power of bacteria</h2><div type="image" title="A petri dish that's half purple and uncolonized on the left side, and pink and colonized by rows of small spots of bacteria on the right side, against a black background." height="5768" width="8652" msid="109738536" hostid="261"></div><p>Non-engineered houseplants are equipped with some <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/these-houseplants-are-completely-idiot-proof-and-can-live-for-weeks-without-water-2017-10">natural air-purifying power</a>, and some types are more effective than others. But research has shown that it would take hundreds of regular houseplants to purify the air inside a 1,500 square-foot home.</p><p>Torbey and Mora wanted to achieve air purification with a single houseplant. To do that, they hacked into the plant's microbiome.</p><p>They targeted a strain of bacteria called Pseudomonas putida, which have a particular appetite for three common VOCs: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/cancer-risk-benzene-pollution-houston-channelview-jacintoport-2023-12">benzene</a>, toluene, and xylene. There are tens of thousands of types of VOCs that can be present in homes, Morrison points out. But Neoplants chose to target these three because they are especially harmful and prevalent in indoor spaces, Mora said.</p><p>This species of bacteria can live off VOCs as their sole carbon source, metabolizing them into harmless sugars and amino acids, according to the <a target="_blank" href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0760/8752/5696/files/NEOPX-WHITEPAPER.pdf?v=1711714362">Neoplants white paper</a>.</p><p>What's more, these bacteria naturally occur in the soil around plant roots and form a mutually beneficial relationship with their host plants. If Torbey and Mora could figure out how to supercharge these VOC-eating bacteria, they'd create a natural air-purifying system.</p><p>Through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/silicon-carbon-bacteria-evolution-chemistry-2016-12">directed evolution</a> — the process of reproducing organisms in a lab to enhance a selected trait over time — they created a new version of Pseudomonas putida that is extremely effective at metabolizing VOCs.</p><p>"These are like tiny, tiny air purifying machines that build more air purifying machines the more pollution there is," Torbey said.</p><p>But keeping these bacteria abundant presented a challenge. Plant microbiomes are difficult to maintain, and their viability declines as soon as you ship that plant to someone, Jennifer Brophy, assistant professor of Bioengineering at Stanford University, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/04/26/1071407/plants-air-cleaning-neoplants-genetically-modified-air-quality">told MIT Tech Review</a>.</p><p>To solve that problem, Neo Px comes with "power drops," a solution of their engineered bacteria that can be used to replenish the plant's microbiome once a month and ensure that it's working at its maximum air-purifying capacity, similar to regularly <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/home/honewell-hpa3300bv1-powerplus-true-hepa-air-purifier-reveiw">replacing an air purifier's filter</a>.</p><h2>Limitations</h2><p>UNC's Morrison thinks that there are other limitations to consider before purchasing Neo Px. "It doesn't really matter how much they modify the plant or modify the bacteria in the soil if they can't get the air into and through it," he said.</p><p>Neo Px is potted in a biodegradable shell that's designed with vents to maximize airflow between the soil and the room, but Morrison argues that the airflow would still be too minimal to make a significant difference in air quality for the average home. "It might actually remove some VOCs, it just doesn't remove very much," he said.</p><p>But Torbey and Mora are confident in their product. "We know that phytoremediation (plants-based solution) is not an approach that most in the indoor air quality community believe in," Torbey told BI in a later email in response to Morrison's skepticism. He and his colleagues have built two VOC measurement rooms at their headquarters in Paris, which they will use to study the phytoremediation potential of their system.</p><p>"We will be publishing this data as soon as possible to help the world better understand the power of phytoremediation," he added.</p><h2>Unpacking the Neo Px system</h2><div type="image" title="A potted plant sits next to one large box, one smaller box, a small packet, and a beaker with a pipette against a white background." height="3692" width="4271" msid="109738539" hostid="261"></div><p>The Neo Px air purifying system comes with a marble queen pothos plant, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/poisonous-houseplants-noah-whiteman-most-delicious-poison-book-2023-12">popular species of houseplant </a>which serves as the perfect host for their VOC-eating bacteria, Mora said.</p><p>Eventually, Mora and Torbey hope to expand Neoplants to include different types of plants, but for now, pothos is the only species available for purchase.</p><p>The Neo Px package includes the biodegradable, vented shell, which also has a built-in self-watering system. "Even <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/houseplant-industry-americans-billions-die-2022-3">people who don't have a green thumb at all</a> can very easily take care of this plant," Mora said.</p><p>This $119 package comes with a six-month supply of power drops. When they run out, customers can sign up to auto-replenish them for $39 every three months.</p><h2>Striving for sustainability</h2><div type="image" title="NeoP1 photographed from below, showing the vents in the shell with pothos leaves peaking out of the top." height="3339" width="4037" msid="109738542" hostid="261"></div><p>For Mora and Torbey, the most exciting aspect of this new product is that it's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/mexico-manufacturing-jobs-trade-china-biden-immigration-labor-america-businesses-2024-1">made entirely in the US</a>. Even the recycled plastic and agricultural waste used to make their self-watering shell comes from the US.</p><p>Achieving this proved challenging, Mora said, but he and Torbey wanted to manufacture their product as close to their main customer base as possible. To them, it didn't make sense to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/y-combinator-backed-startup-seabound-carbon-capture-wave-shipping-2023-8">ship a product</a> designed to clean the air across the world. And manufacturing Neo Px in the US helped ensure their product was made responsibly.</p><p>"What we tried to do is build a product that is as sustainable as possible. So, you don't need to use any electricity, you don't need to replace filters that have a lot of pollution in them and throw them away," Mora said.</p><p>This sustainable model is part of Neoplants overarching goal: to drive progress towards solutions to even bigger environmental issues.</p><p>"If we project ourselves in five years from now, not only will we have this product family for indoor spaces that people can put in their homes, but we'll also start hitting some of the first fundamental technical milestones for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/afp-resurrection-plants-offer-hope-as-climate-turns-hostile-2015-11">climate change applications</a>," Mora said.</p>

This $119 houseplant is bioengineered to remove harmful air pollution in your home.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Tesla's gigafactory outside Austin won't have to follow the city's environmental regulations. </li><li>The EV company was granted an exemption thanks to a new state law.</li></ul><p>Tesla's massive gigafactory outside Austin, Texas will no longer have to follow local environmental regulations, thanks to a recent state law.</p><p>Tesla's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tesla.com/giga-texas">2,500-acre property</a>, which includes its 10-million-square-foot electric vehicle gigafactory, is in unincorporated land on the outskirts of Austin. </p><p>Despite not being directly in the city, most of that land was still part of Austin's "extraterritorial jurisdiction" (ETJ), which allowed the city to regulate developments outside its limits.</p><p>In February, Tesla applied for an exemption from Austin's ETJ, which the city's Planning Department approved in March. </p><p>The exemption was first reported by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2024/04/22/tesla-gigafactory-etj-austin.html?utm_source=st&amp;utm_medium=en&amp;utm_campaign=inno&amp;ana=e_n&amp;utm_content=au">the Austin Business Journal</a> this week.</p><p>The exemption was possible thanks to a new state law that went into effect in September and allows landowners to request to be removed from jurisdictions so that they can develop land with fewer regulations. </p><p>Several cities in the state have already sued to block the law, including Grand Prairie, which argued in a filing that the law will hurt the city's ability to protect the health, safety, and welfare of those who live in and around its borders.</p><p>But under the law, cities don't have much leeway to deny a landowner's request, Austin's director of planning previously said, according to the Austin Business Journal.</p><p>Tesla's ETJ exemption will enable the electric vehicle company to further develop its land without having to follow the city's environmental restrictions, which an Austin city spokesperson acknowledged could harm locals.</p><p>"Releasing properties from the ETJ impacts the City because development in the ETJ is subject to limited subdivision regulation as well as regulation of water quality and flooding issues," Shelley Parks, an Austin city spokesperson, said in a statement to Business Insider. "All affect people in both the ETJ and the City itself." </p><p>Tesla did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.</p><p>When the Texas gigafactory was still under construction before its 2022 opening, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-gigafactory">Elon Musk promised it would be an "ecological paradise</a>" with walking trails for the public along the neighboring Colorado River.</p><p>Musk's companies have had issues with environmental regulations in the past, however. In February, Tesla settled a lawsuit accusing them of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-will-pay-31000-to-settle-us-epa-hazardous-waste-claims-2019-4">mishandling hazardous waste</a> in California. Meanwhile, the Boring Company has been accused of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/texans-criticize-elon-musk-plans-for-dumping-boring-company-wastewater-2023-3">letting untreated wastewater drain</a> into the Colorado River.</p>

Tesla found a way to get out of environmental regulations at its Texas gigafactory

A new <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024004355#b0205">study</a> published in <em>Environment International</em> found that 14 of the 30 tampon brands tested contained measurable quantities of 16 metals, including <keyword id="21287030" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="heavy-metals" source="keywords">heavy metals</keyword> like lead and arsenic. Unlike other areas of skin, the <keyword id="22359234" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vaginal-tissue" source="keywords">vaginal tissue</keyword> readily absorbs substances, potentially leading to "systemic exposure" to these metals, warn scientists.<br /><br />The study acknowledges several possible sources for the metals in <keyword id="21056381" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tampons" source="keywords">tampons</keyword>. They could be present in the cotton itself due to environmental factors or contamination. Alternatively, the metals might be added during manufacturing for purposes like pigmentation, whitening, or anti-bacterial properties. But how “safe” are they?<br /><br />We know what you're thinking: a relatively tiny chunk of Indians use tampons. But while this study claims to be the first of its kind for tampons, this is hardly the first time questionable materials have been found in a <keyword id="22359233" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sanitary-product" source="keywords">sanitary product</keyword> created for women. Other heavy metals, potentially harmful <keyword id="20406621" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="chemicals" source="keywords">chemicals</keyword> and even carcinogens have previously been detected in sanitary napkins as well. And last we checked, over 40% of Indian women used <keyword id="584042" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sanitary-pads" source="Orion">sanitary pads</keyword> while menstruating.<br /><h2>Link between sanitary pads and <keyword id="22359235" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="reproductive-diseases" source="keywords">reproductive diseases</keyword></h2>A 2022 <a href="https://toxicslink.org/publications/reports/wrapped-in-secrecy-toxic-chemicals-in-menstrual-products">report</a> focused on two main culprits: phthalates and volatile organic compounds that are added for elasticity and absorbency in pads. These chemicals were detected in all ten tested brands, including both inorganic and organic varieties. Popular names like <keyword id="20280828" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="whisper" source="keywords">Whisper</keyword>, Stayfree, Sofy, PeeSafe, Nua, and Plush were included in the analysis.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111624399" title="How did over 800 students test HIV positive in Tripura?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Experts have repeatedly warned of the potential <keyword id="19977451" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-risks" source="keywords">health risks</keyword> associated with these chemicals, going as far as to suggest that these chemicals could disrupt hormonal functions, potentially leading to PCOS, endometriosis, and hypothyroidism. Long-term exposure may even increase cancer risk. The concern is heightened by the vagina's high absorbency, allowing these chemicals to enter the body at a faster rate.<br /><br />A lot of this is conjecture based on what doctors and experts suspect, primarily because not nearly enough research has been conducted on the potential impacts of sanitary products on women’s bodies. Naturally, there’s a lack of regulation from governments on period products.<br /><h2>The glaring lack of proper labelling of sanitary products</h2>Sanitary product manufacturers love to wrap their stuff in flowery and “girly” packages, with the size of a pad’s wings and how it will last you all day long advertised in bold letters. But they don’t think it’s necessary to test their products for their content and perhaps even share that little tidbit with their customers.<br /><br />Companies making pads and tampons are usually exempt from listing ingredients as these are categorised as "medical products." However, many argue this label is misleading as pads cannot be considered medical intervention, they’re just for absorption. <br /><br />The absence of research on quality standards raises red flags. Individuals and NGOs have voiced concerns about potentially harmful chemicals in some pads but to no avail. Even existing regulations offer no solace. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) did implement higher quality standards for reusable sanitary pads, sanitary napkins and period panties. However, Without ingredient lists, it's impossible for consumers to make informed choices about their health.<br /><h2>A call for change</h2>This lack of transparency and outdated regulations create a situation where millions of women are unknowingly exposed to potential health risks. Sanitary pad companies should be required to list all ingredients on the packaging, empowering consumers with knowledge. The BIS needs to update its guidelines to include thorough testing for harmful chemicals, ensuring safety. Most of all, further research is crucial to assess the quality and safety of sanitary pads available in the Indian market.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111578389" title="Talc, found in baby powder and cosmetics, is “probably” cancer-causing, says WHO agency" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>While the ongoing research sheds light on a previously unknown potential health risk associated with sanitary products, we acknowledge that using a pad is a lot more hygienic and safe than using a cloth rag. But clear labelling and stricter regulations are essential to ensure the safety of individuals who rely on these products.<br />

Your go-to sanitary product likely has harmful heavy metals in it, even if the label doesn’t say so!

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Michael Pollan has been investigating how US farmers grow plants and raise livestock for 17 years.</li><li>As a result of what he's seen, he has changed his diet in a few key ways.</li></ul><p>When <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/michael-pollan-diet-to-avoid-ultra-processed-foods-2024-4">Michael Pollan</a> is shopping for his family, he tries to buy organic food.</p><p>But he knows that's not always realistic — and that the word "organic" is not a synonym for healthy or pure. It is mired in <a target="_blank" href="https://barnraisingmedia.com/real-organic-label-project-reclaiming-certification-usda/">agro-politics</a>.</p><p>Though organically grown foods tend to be slightly more nutritious and better for the health of the planet, they aren't always. Organic farming techniques generally also lead to lower <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308521X23001373/">yields</a>, meaning farms produce less food, and it's more expensive to buy.</p><p>Still, there are a couple of items Pollan will avoid if organic options aren't available. That's largely because the non-organic versions are often so laden with toxic chemicals, he told Business Insider, ahead of the release of his new documentary, "Food, Inc. 2," which came out April 12.</p><p>"I just think it's a good idea to keep synthetic pesticides out of your diet to the extent you can," Pollan said. "There are practices in American agriculture that if people really knew about them, they would be outraged."</p><h2><strong>Strawberries</strong></h2><div type="image" title="strawberry picking" height="1397" width="2100" msid="109322021" hostid="261" sizebytes="382664"></div><p>After roughly 17 years of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/michael-pollan-eats-high-protein-snack-to-curb-his-cravings-for-ultra-processed-foods-2024-4">studying the food industry</a>, Pollan can't stomach non-organic strawberries anymore. They "are usually grown with some pretty nasty chemicals, soil fumigants and things like that," he said.</p><p>Strawberries, with their delicate, permeable, soft skins have been a staple on the Environmental Working Group's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/pesticides-on-fruits-vegetables-2018-4">controversial</a> "Dirty Dozen" <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-fruits-vegetables-with-most-pesticide-contamination-2024-3">list</a> for years because the non-organic versions tend to have some of the highest surface pesticide levels of any fresh fruit or vegetable on the market.</p><p>As a result, demand for more organic strawberries has surged in recent years; organic strawberry acreage in California <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/publications/107358/eib-257_summary.pdf?v=5144.7">tripled</a> between 2008 and 2019. (But nutrition experts stress there are still plenty of health benefits to eating regular strawberries, and giving a conventional berry a quick rinse in the sink can help reduce your pesticide exposure).</p><p>Organic strawberries aren't grown that differently from conventionals — except when it comes to the fertilizers and weed killers farmers use. Typically, organic strawberries in the US are <a target="_blank" href="https://coststudyfiles.ucdavis.edu/uploads/pub/2022/08/17/2022organicstrawberrycc-final_draft-august_2022.pdf">cultivated</a> without soil fumigants or herbicides.</p><p>"In general, organic soils, they don't get their fertility from chemicals, they get their fertility from compost and manure and things like that," Pollan said. "Not in every case, but in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7019963/">many cases</a>, they have <a target="_blank" href="https://businessinsider.com/broccoli-benefits-anti-cancer-supplement-2024-4">more nutrients</a>."</p><h2><strong>Bread</strong></h2><div type="image" title="wheat in field" height="1402" width="2100" msid="109322023" hostid="261" sizebytes="52290"></div><p>Pollan said he also buys organic flour and bread.</p><p>Conventional wheat hasn't gotten the same bad reputation that strawberries have. It's not listed on the Dirty Dozen list, in part because it's not really considered fresh produce, and we don't tend to eat it raw.</p><p>But studies suggest that conventional grains tend to harbor higher levels of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7238532/">cadmium</a>, a toxic metal found in soil, than organic versions. Pollan worries, in particular, about the level of glyphosate that's in conventional wheat at harvest.</p><p>"Wheat farmers have taken to spraying glyphosate on their crops to kill it — it's a weed killer and plant killer," he said. "We're carrying body <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6322310/">levels of glyphosate</a> that are much higher than they used to be."</p><p>Scientists are still <a target="_blank" href="https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/glyphosate-use-as-a-pre-harvest-treatment-not-a-risk-to-food-safety.html">arguing</a> about whether this trend is worrisome, and some big grainmakers in the US are already <a target="_blank" href="https://non-gmoreport.com/articles/days-are-numbered-for-pre-harvest-use-of-glyphosate/">phasing out</a> their use of pre-harvest glyphosate, but Pollan is not waiting around.</p><p>"They're taking this toxic pesticide, which has been <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/glyphosate-cancer-dangers-roundup-epa-2019-5">linked to lymphoma</a> and is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rfi.fr/en/business-and-tech/20230920-glyphosate-where-is-it-banned-or-restricted">banned</a> in many countries, and they're spraying it on our food right before harvest, very close to the time we're going to eat it, he said. "It's a very good argument for buying organic wheat and organic bread."</p>

2 foods Michael Pollan always buys organic to reduce his exposure to harmful chemicals

<keyword id="55910" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Air-Pollution" source="Orion">Air pollution</keyword> is a pressing global issue that affects both developed and developing nations. Using data from the IQAir 2022 World Air Quality Ranking we will examine the <keyword id="19039904" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="most-polluted-countries-in-the-world" source="Orion">most polluted countries in the world</keyword> from 2018 to 2022, shedding light on the sources of <keyword id="13001" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Pollution" source="Orion">pollution</keyword> and the impacts on public health and the environment.<br /><br /><strong>1. Chad</strong><br />Chad tops the list as one of the <keyword id="13437378" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="most-polluted-countries" source="Orion">most polluted countries</keyword>, with alarming levels of particulate matter (PM2.5). The sources of pollution primarily stem from various factors, including industrial activities and vehicular emissions.<br /><br /><strong>2. Iraq</strong><br />Iraq is the second most polluted country on our list. The rise in air pollution can be attributed to increased industrial activities and a growing number of vehicles on the road.<br /><br /><strong>3. Pakistan</strong><br />Pakistan has consistently faced severe air pollution, and the data indicates fluctuations in pollution levels. Major sources of pollution include vehicular emissions, industrial discharges, and crop burning.<br /><br /><strong>4. Bahrain</strong><br />Bahrain, despite its small size, faces significant air pollution challenges primarily due to industrial activities and oil refineries. The government has initiated measures to combat this issue.<br /><br /><strong>5. Bangladesh</strong><br />Bangladesh has been grappling with air pollution, mainly driven by vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and construction activities. The health impacts are severe, leading to respiratory diseases and other health issues.<br /><br /><strong>6. Burkina Faso</strong><br />Burkina Faso, with limited available data, experiences air pollution challenges. The lack of comprehensive data makes it difficult to identify specific sources of pollution.<br /><br /><strong>7. Kuwait</strong><br />Kuwait's air quality is affected by factors such as industrial activities, oil refineries, and construction dust. The hot and arid climate exacerbates pollution issues, leading to health problems.<br /><br /><strong>8. India</strong><br />India, with its rapid urbanization and industrialization, has faced significant air pollution challenges. Major cities like New Delhi often experience hazardous air quality due to vehicular emissions, industrial discharges, and construction activities.<br /><br /><strong>9. Egypt</strong><br />Egypt's air quality is affected by emissions from vehicles and industrial activities. The political situation in the country has hindered environmental regulations and enforcement.<br /><br /><strong>10. Tajikistan</strong><br />Tajikistan has faced fluctuations in air pollution levels, driven by factors such as vehicular emissions and industrial activities. The lack of consistent data makes it challenging to track long-term trends.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Impact on Health and the Environment" comment="subhead" text="Impact on Health and the Environment"><span data-til="noop">Impact on Health and the Environment</span></cmsannotation><br />The consequences of air pollution in these countries are severe, with a high incidence of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues. Long-term exposure to <keyword id="6489235" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Polluted-Air" source="Orion">polluted air</keyword> can lead to more severe conditions such as lung cancer.<br /><br />In addition to its effect on human health, air pollution also damages the environment, including contributing to climate change, impairing ecosystems, and harming agricultural productivity.<br /><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Efforts to Combat Pollution" comment="subhead" text="Efforts to Combat Pollution"><span data-til="noop">Efforts to Combat Pollution</span></cmsannotation><br />Many of these countries have recognized the urgent need to address air pollution and have taken measures to mitigate its effects. These efforts include improving public transportation, implementing stricter emission standards, and promoting clean energy alternatives. However, challenges such as limited resources, rapid urbanization, and political instability continue to hamper progress.<br /><br />International cooperation and support are crucial in addressing the problem of air pollution. Multilateral agreements and partnerships can help countries access technology, financing, and expertise to combat pollution effectively.<br /><br />Air pollution is a global concern, and the data from 2018 to 2022 highlights the persistent challenges faced by the most <keyword id="19165516" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="polluted-countries" source="Orion">polluted countries</keyword>. These nations must continue their efforts to improve air quality, protect public health, and safeguard the environment. The path to cleaner air involves a combination of government initiatives, international collaboration, and individual actions to reduce emissions and protect the planet for future generations.<br />

You Searched For "environmental harm" and got 12 results

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