In the last 40 years there has been a 100-fold increase of plastics in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, according to a study in Biology Letters. These plastics don’t only poison and strangle sea creatures—one of the findings of our “Swimming With Nurdles” graphic in May/June—they might re-weave the web of life, the study says. The increase in plastic bounty has been an excellent breeding ground for Halobates sericeus—a type of water skater that typically lays its eggs on naturally occurring flotsam like wood, pumice, and sea shells. Lead author Miriam Goldstein and her ... Read More
Ocean Garbage Patches: A Scientific Sifting
April 26, 2012 • By • Leave a Comment
Our oceans are filled with trash. Oceanographers, environmentalists and biologists have been working for years to better understand the problem of, and solutions to, marine debris. In the current issue of Pacific Standard we highlight the problem of, and some possible solutions to, marine debris in “Swimming with Nurdles” (PDF). Add to that: Marine debris is easy to think of as an environmentalist’s problem. But, according to an Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation report, marine debris cost Pacific nations’ fishing, shipping and marine tourism industries $1.27 billion in ... Read More
Monkey See, Monkey Brew
October 8, 2008 • By • Leave a Comment
Coffee isn't generally considered a health-enhancing beverage, but recent research suggests the caffeinated brew may have gotten a bad rap. Reports in recent months have suggested java junkies enjoy a surprising number of health benefits, including a lower likelihood of developing deadly cardiovascular disease. The latest is a Japanese study, which suggests women who drink coffee may lessen their risk of developing cancer of the uterus. The Asian nation's health ministry monitored 45,000 women between the ages of 40 and 69 over a 15-year period. It found those who drank more than three cups ... Read More
Reducing Carbon One Garbage Can at a Time
September 3, 2008 • By • Leave a Comment
It wasn’t long ago that no one knew what a carbon footprint was. Now a person can’t turn around without bumping into, uhhh, Bigfoot. Most people and communities first look at energy efficiency as a quick means of reducing their carbon footprint, but pay-as-you-throw (or PAYT) garbage collection may be more efficient, according to consultant Lisa Skumatz, who works in both fields. The PAYT concept is to pay for garbage to be picked up one bin or bag at a time so that, just like electricity, you are paying for what you use. Instead of being charged a flat rate by a hauler or an ... Read More
