In this edition of The Hotpot: four recommended long-form articles and a video from journalists and experts in the field, to stay up to date on how to solve climate change. From
The 1st recommended read
The truth about Big Toilet Paper
Heated | Arielle Samuelson and Emily Atkin | March 17, 2023
Toilet paper is a climate issue where consumer choice actually matters. This article delves into the environmental consequences of the toilet paper industry. Atkin and Samuelson assert that the industry is accountable for deforestation, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. They suggest that consumers can contribute to sustainability by adopting eco-friendly options like bidets, reusable cloths, or bamboo toilet paper. The article emphasizes the responsibility of corporations in perpetuating unsustainable practices and underscores the necessity of governmental regulations and consumer activism to enforce change.
The 2nd recommended read
Why planting tons of trees isn’t enough to solve climate change
Science News | Emily Pontecorvo | June 29, 2022
This article provides an overview of the limitations and challenges associated with using tree planting as a solution for mitigating climate change and deforestation. The article explains how tree planting initiatives often neglect to consider factors such as land availability, long-term maintenance, and the effectiveness of tree species in capturing carbon. Additionally, the article highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of deforestation, such as unsustainable agricultural practices and the exploitation of natural resources. Reading this article can help you gain a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of using tree planting as a solution for addressing climate change and deforestation.
The 3rd recommended read
Satellites are helping researchers track climate emissions
World Economic Forum | February 2, 2023
This article highlights the importance of gaining a deeper understanding of where our greenhouse gas emissions come from in order to curb them. NASA recently started with satellite imagery and other satellite technology to identify the main polluters responsible for global emissions. Climate TRACE helps us gain a deeper understanding of the worldwide emissions and provide us with a more comprehensive and accurate view of global emissions, and how this information can be used to inform policy and decision-making.
The 4th recommended read
Oceans: Scientists want to restore the seas with artificial whale poo
New Scientist | By Adam Vaughan | February 22, 2022
This article points out how Scientists are exploring the idea of using artificial whale poo to restore marine ecosystems. The concept involves releasing nutrient-rich substances, similar to whale feces, into the ocean to promote the growth of phytoplankton, which serves as the base of the food chain. Phytoplankton is a vital source of oxygen and carbon sequestration, which helps mitigate the effects of climate change. The artificial poo would contain the same nutrients as natural whale feces, but it would be released in smaller, more controlled amounts. The idea is still in its early stages, and more research is needed to determine the potential benefits and risks of this approach.
Video
How concrete could become a surprising climate solution
BBC News | 5:11 min | Youtube
Made possible by our editorial team with our main editor Lisanne Swart.
Previous editions of The Hotpot:
- Historical Moment For The Waters, Ultra-White Paint, And More
- A Solar Panel Boom, New Method To Cool Buildings
- The Whale, The Power Of Pee, Solar panels, Electric Planes