environmental impact

Survey finds that 60 firms are responsible for half of world’s plastic pollution

Survey Finds that 60 Firms are Responsible for Half of World’s Plastic Pollution

Amidst the pressing issue of environmental pollution, a recent survey has shed light on a startling fact – 60 firms are responsible for half of the world’s plastic pollution. The magnitude of this statistic is truly alarming, as it underlines the significant impact that a handful of corporations have on our planet’s health.

The implications of this survey are profound, as it forces us to confront the role of these companies in perpetuating the plastic pollution crisis. It raises questions about corporate responsibility and accountability, urging us to consider the environmental impact of mass production and consumption.… Continue reading

Plastics industry heats world four times as much as air travel, report finds

Plastics are everywhere. They are in our clothes, our packaging, our food, our vehicles – you name it, and plastic is likely a part of it. It’s a versatile material that has become ingrained in our daily lives, providing convenience and functionality in countless applications. But at what cost? Recent reports have shed light on the staggering impact of the plastics industry on our planet’s climate, revealing that it heats the world four times as much as air travel.

When we think of industries contributing to global warming, air travel often takes the spotlight. However, the sheer ubiquity of plastics means that they are a major player in the climate crisis.… Continue reading

Everest climbers will have to take their poop away with them, as Nepal tries to address growing waste problem

Carrying our own waste back with us may seem like a small inconvenience compared to the grandeur of conquering Mount Everest, but it speaks volumes about the impact of human activity on the environment. As someone who appreciates the great outdoors and the beauty of nature, the idea of leaving behind a trail of waste on one of the world’s most iconic peaks is simply unacceptable. The notion of climbers having to take their poop with them may sound comical or absurd to some, but it underscores a serious issue that requires immediate attention.

The sheer amount of waste left behind on Everest is staggering – from flags and oxygen bottles to human bodies that never made it back down.… Continue reading

Texas unanimously approves handing Elon Musk Boca Chica State Park land

have a long history of valuing land and natural spaces. Boca Chica State Park, with its unique ecosystem, has been a place of great importance to local residents and environmentalists alike. So when news broke that Texas had unanimously approved handing over a portion of this beloved park to Elon Musk’s SpaceX, the backlash was immediate.

Many saw this decision as yet another example of corporate welfare, with Musk benefiting from public resources at the expense of taxpayers. After all, SpaceX has received billions in government contracts, including from the US Government, making Musk a favorite of politicians and regulators.

But, as I delved deeper into the details of the land swap, I began to see a different side to the story.… Continue reading

“A dream. It’s perfect”: Helium discovery in northern Minnesota may be biggest ever in North America

“A dream. It’s perfect,” exclaims the high-pitched voice in my head as I read about the groundbreaking discovery of helium in northern Minnesota, potentially the biggest find in North America. Helium, a precious resource that is usually extracted as a byproduct of the oil and gas industry, seems to be in abundance in this region. The concentration of helium is significantly higher, making it a greener option for extraction that doesn’t require expanding fossil fuels.

But as I marvel at the potential of this discovery, a nagging question lingers in my mind – why do we still sell helium-filled balloons? It feels like such a waste of a valuable resource.… Continue reading

Houthi rebels sink ship in Red Sea for the first time

The recent news of the Houthi rebels sinking a ship in the Red Sea for the first time has sparked a multitude of reactions and emotions within me. The fact that they targeted a Lebanese ship, potentially without even knowing the true identity of their target, is a cause for concern. It makes me question the motives and strategies of these rebels who seem to be creating chaos and destruction without a clear purpose or direction.

The implications of this act go beyond just the sinking of a ship. The environmental impact of such an attack, especially when considering the cargo of fertilizers on board, is a cause for alarm.… Continue reading

Earth just experienced its hottest 12 months in recorded history

Earth just experienced its hottest 12 months in recorded history, and it’s no surprise to me. As someone who has lived through various seasons and witnessed the changing climate patterns firsthand, it’s evident that something is going terribly wrong with our planet. I remember the days when snow was a regular occurrence during the winter months, but now, it’s become a rarity. The temperatures soaring, the climate becoming more unpredictable, and the impact on the environment is undeniable.

Despite the overwhelming evidence of climate change and the hottest 12 months on record, there are still individuals out there who choose to deny the truth.… Continue reading

Norfolk Southern CEO received 37% raise following derailment

It’s truly mind-boggling to see the CEO of Norfolk Southern receive a 37% raise following a catastrophic derailment that caused significant harm to a local community. This blatant display of rewarding failure is a testament to the brokenness of our current system. While hard-working individuals struggle to make ends meet and receive meager raises that barely keep up with inflation, CEOs like this receive exorbitant compensation for their inability to perform their duties effectively.

The fact that Shaw’s total compensation increased to $13.4 million in 2023, up from $9.8 million in 2022, is not only unjust but also reflects a disturbing trend in corporate America.… Continue reading

Exxon beats estimates, ends 2023 with a $36 billion profit

Exxon beats estimates, ends 2023 with a $36 billion profit. When I heard this news, I couldn’t help but have mixed feelings. On one hand, I was impressed by the sheer magnitude of their success. To generate such a massive profit is no small feat. It’s a true underdog story, showcasing what a company can achieve with determination and savvy business practices.

However, as I delved deeper into the topic, I couldn’t ignore the concerns that many have raised. The comments I read about laying off workers and hiding profits in tax havens left a sour taste in my mouth. It’s disheartening to think that a company can celebrate such success while simultaneously leaving employees jobless and evading their fair share of taxes.… Continue reading