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businessmen, government agencies, legal entities, and individuals often use these two entities in their daily lives to do with another party to achieve a common goal. The parties must understand that if they want their decisions to be binding on each other, they can argue for an agreement that establishes their essential rights for the parties, and they can also enforce them in court. However, if the parties do not want a legal obligation for them, they can opt for a memorandum of understanding. However, a letter of intent is not enforceable, if one of the parties has done something about the letter of intent and the other party has suffered a loss as a result, the aggrieved party has the right to recover the loss because the parties are bound by legal forfeiture.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOA) or Cooperation Agreement is a written document between the parties to work together on an agreed project or achieve an agreed goal. The purpose of a Memorandum of Understanding is to have a written understanding of the agreement between the parties. The Memorandum of Understanding can also make legally valid and the parties responsible for their obligation, or simply a partnership agreement. In the context of sharing agreements, a letter of intent is often used to define the expectations and responsibilities of each party. These MEMoranda of Understanding generally address issues such as: (1) who is responsible for the cost of maintenance and repairs, (2) insurance and liability, (3) personnel and communications, and (4) dispute resolution. Whether the terms of these agreements are legally enforceable as a contract ultimately depends on the intention of the parties. Therefore, parties to a sharing agreement should address the legal status of their agreement early in the negotiation process. Memoranda of Understanding are like contracts that define how two organizations will work together. While memoranda of understanding are technically legally binding, consider these documents as a tool to facilitate partnership and |
f the agreement between the parties. The Memorandum of Understanding can also make legally valid and the parties responsible for their obligation, or simply a partnership agreement. In the context of sharing agreements, a letter of intent is often used to define the expectations and responsibilities of each party. These MEMoranda of Understanding generally address issues such as: (1) who is responsible for the cost of maintenance and repairs, (2) insurance and liability, (3) personnel and communications, and (4) dispute resolution. Whether the terms of these agreements are legally enforceable as a contract ultimately depends on the intention of the parties. Therefore, parties to a sharing agreement should address the legal status of their agreement early in the negotiation process. Memoranda of Understanding are like contracts that define how two organizations will work together. While memoranda of understanding are technically legally binding, consider these documents as a tool to facilitate partnership and ensure a harmonious working relationship between two organizations. |
ensure a harmonious working relationship between two organizations. |
A mutually helpful relationship is known as a fancy term used to describe the cooperation between two variety. It could occur among humans, fungi, bacterias, or even plants. This romance can result in various benefits and pitfalls.
One of the most impressive of all of the mutually useful relationships may be the one between two species of disease. In this context, a fungus is a helpful organism that gives nutrients, normal water, and shield to photosynthetic algae, and also providing several defense from all other invading creatures. However , such a romantic relationship is only likely because of the conditions of the environment. These include a great temperature selection, and a lack of sunlight. This may not be to mention a low population density. For example , many blooming plants are unable to reproduce unless of course they may have insects to pollinate these people.
An identical scenario occurs in the microbiome, which contains a host of beneficial organisms. These microorganisms help individuals digest foodstuff, protect them out of pathogens, and present them with maximum environmental conditions. A persons microbiome is mostly a complex network of cells and internal organs, in whose overgrowth can lead to disease. To combat this problem, a number of experts have recommended a solution referred to as probiotics. Those who believe in this kind of theory claim that the gut microbiome may withstand the pains of civilization, and still provide humans with numerous health improvements.
A related term is cooperation, which is a highly skilled term with regards to the mutually beneficial relationship between two species. This form of interdependence https://sugardaddyaustralia.org/established-men/ is most often found between two photosynthetic species. A fungus allows a photosynthesis-powered smut to prosper in a chillier, drier environment. Its biggest drawback may be the potential for a parasitic infections. This can occur when the yeast overgrows and reverts to their asexual point out.
In the same way that |
st foodstuff, protect them out of pathogens, and present them with maximum environmental conditions. A persons microbiome is mostly a complex network of cells and internal organs, in whose overgrowth can lead to disease. To combat this problem, a number of experts have recommended a solution referred to as probiotics. Those who believe in this kind of theory claim that the gut microbiome may withstand the pains of civilization, and still provide humans with numerous health improvements.
A related term is cooperation, which is a highly skilled term with regards to the mutually beneficial relationship between two species. This form of interdependence https://sugardaddyaustralia.org/established-men/ is most often found between two photosynthetic species. A fungus allows a photosynthesis-powered smut to prosper in a chillier, drier environment. Its biggest drawback may be the potential for a parasitic infections. This can occur when the yeast overgrows and reverts to their asexual point out.
In the same way that a feline can give you a great nights sleep, a infection can the actual same for that photosynthetic atlygis. This is not to be able to that lizards http://poiarmex.pt/obtaining-sugar-going-out-with-value-out-of-sugar-daddies/ happen to be bad for us, but people are detrimental to fungi. For instance, a single contamination can foodstuff thousands of photosynthetic algae, and will produce plenty of of recent spores every year. |
a feline can give you a great nights sleep, a infection can the actual same for that photosynthetic atlygis. This is not to be able to that lizards http://poiarmex.pt/obtaining-sugar-going-out-with-value-out-of-sugar-daddies/ happen to be bad for us, but people are detrimental to fungi. For instance, a single contamination can foodstuff thousands of photosynthetic algae, and will produce plenty of of recent spores every year. |
At this year’s COP, the focus will be on topics such as climate finance, damage and loss (see main article), adaptation to climate change and emission reductions.
“The negotiations are a process in which each step and each conference is important. The climate change conference in Glasgow last year adopted new initiatives, such as the working programmes for more ambitious aims regarding emission reductions and adaptation. Concretising these programmes during this year’s conference is very important, as global emissions continue to increase and climate effects proliferate – it is becoming increasingly clear how little time we have to reverse the trend,” says Markku Rummukainen, professor of Climatology at the Centre for Environmental and Climate Science (CEC) and the Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science at Lund University.
What are reasonable expectations for the conference?
“No single conference solves the climate issue. The world is still out of step regarding measures for the climate. But concretising the decisions taken in Glasgow can contribute to reinforce both emission reductions and adaptation. Some progress has been made in the “intermediate discussions” held during the year regarding, for example, damage and loss.”
What needs to happen at COP27 for global climate collaboration to advance?
“More climate finance is needed for developing countries, including compensation for what is known as climate-related damage and loss. It is also important that progress is made during the conference on the global overview, which is to compare the overall effect of the countries’ national climate plans with the Paris Agreement’s global goals – how much difference is there between the former and the latter? Our status regarding the level of ambition for emission reductions will then form the basis of updated national climate plans.”
COP stands for Conference Of the Parties. The parties are those countries that signed the UN’s Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which was drawn up at the Rio |
oncretising the decisions taken in Glasgow can contribute to reinforce both emission reductions and adaptation. Some progress has been made in the “intermediate discussions” held during the year regarding, for example, damage and loss.”
What needs to happen at COP27 for global climate collaboration to advance?
“More climate finance is needed for developing countries, including compensation for what is known as climate-related damage and loss. It is also important that progress is made during the conference on the global overview, which is to compare the overall effect of the countries’ national climate plans with the Paris Agreement’s global goals – how much difference is there between the former and the latter? Our status regarding the level of ambition for emission reductions will then form the basis of updated national climate plans.”
COP stands for Conference Of the Parties. The parties are those countries that signed the UN’s Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which was drawn up at the Rio conference in 1992. Each climate COP has a number to designate its place in the conference series. COP27 is accordingly the UN’s 27th climate change conference. |
conference in 1992. Each climate COP has a number to designate its place in the conference series. COP27 is accordingly the UN’s 27th climate change conference. |
A guide for families of all backgrounds to celebrate cultural heritage and embrace inclusivity in the home and beyond.
Gone are the days when socially conscious parents feel comfortable teaching their children to merely tolerate others. Instead, they are looking for a way to authentically embrace the fullness of their diverse communities. A Place to Belong
offers a path forward for families to honor their cultural heritage and champion diversity in the context of daily family life by: -
Fostering open dialogue around discrimination, race, gender, disability, and class -
Teaching "hard history" in an age-appropriate way -
Curating a diverse selection of books and media choices in which children see themselves and people who are different -
Celebrating cultural heritage through art, music, and poetry -
Modeling activism and engaging in community service projects as a family
Amber O'Neal Johnston, a homeschooling mother of four, shows parents of all backgrounds how to create a home environment where children feel secure in their own personhood and culture, enabling them to better understand and appreciate people who are racially and culturally different. A Place to Belong
gives parents the tools to empower children to embrace their unique identities while feeling beautifully tethered to their global community. |
The Special Operations Force is an important component of the Naval Power, and its mission is to organize, prepare, train, supervise and maintain in an optimal state of readiness Special Operations and Rescue Units, in order to provide operational elements capable of acting with success where required by National Interests; in this sense, this operative force groups the Naval Special Operators and the Salvation Divers of the Navy, courageous men who, in their respective fields of action, are capable of taking personal risks, in order to successfully achieve exceptional tasks that for many border with the impossible.
In doing so, the Special Operators emulate their daring predecessors of the Guerra del Salitre, Ensign of Frigate Carlos Bondy Tellería, who on July 3, 1880, through an action of sabotage with explosives in the bay of Callao, made a successful blasting of the Chilean ship Loa; and the Ensign of Fragata Decio Oyague Neyra, who on September 13, 1880 in the bay of Chancay, sank the Chilean schooner "Virgen de Covadonga", using a similar course of action. On the other hand, Salvation Divers emulate the diver José Hilario Morales, who served under the command of Grand Admiral Miguel Grau, and had the distinction of being one of the survivors of the Huáscar Monitor, since he was embarked on that ship carrying out risky works of diving, from May of 1879 to October 8 of that year, date in which he fell prisoner, in the epic of Angamos.
Special Operators assume as their philosophy of life the maxim "Man is the weapon", because they are characterized by having great physical and mental strength, based on solid moral values, which allows them to perform risky missions, stealthily infiltrating small groups by land, sea or air; to be able to identify and beat targets of high military value, which can not be reached by conventional forces, as they are heavily guarded within territories controlled by the enemy. The rescue divers are professional divers who work alone in the cold and dark depths of seas, rivers and l |
Virgen de Covadonga", using a similar course of action. On the other hand, Salvation Divers emulate the diver José Hilario Morales, who served under the command of Grand Admiral Miguel Grau, and had the distinction of being one of the survivors of the Huáscar Monitor, since he was embarked on that ship carrying out risky works of diving, from May of 1879 to October 8 of that year, date in which he fell prisoner, in the epic of Angamos.
Special Operators assume as their philosophy of life the maxim "Man is the weapon", because they are characterized by having great physical and mental strength, based on solid moral values, which allows them to perform risky missions, stealthily infiltrating small groups by land, sea or air; to be able to identify and beat targets of high military value, which can not be reached by conventional forces, as they are heavily guarded within territories controlled by the enemy. The rescue divers are professional divers who work alone in the cold and dark depths of seas, rivers and lakes, to recover all or part of vessels, ships, submarines, aircraft, structures and / or people who have suffered some sinister in water.
Throughout its Institutional trajectory, this Force has acquired great reputation both nationally and internationally, because between the 80's and 90's its special operators developed innumerable combat operations in the Fronts of Ayacucho, Huallaga, Ucayali and the Cenepa, with an incredible record of zero casualties, and in the last decade they have been carrying out special operations in the convulsive area of the VRAEM; likewise, divers from the Salvage Group managed to successfully rescue the naval personnel trapped in the BAP Pacocha submarine, when it was sunk 130 feet deep, and then, after a year of hard work, it was taken again to surface, when its refloating was achieved.
The sailors who make up the Special Operations Force are aware of the risk involved in their work and the commitment of honor they swore for their country; that is why when undertaking their da |
akes, to recover all or part of vessels, ships, submarines, aircraft, structures and / or people who have suffered some sinister in water.
Throughout its Institutional trajectory, this Force has acquired great reputation both nationally and internationally, because between the 80's and 90's its special operators developed innumerable combat operations in the Fronts of Ayacucho, Huallaga, Ucayali and the Cenepa, with an incredible record of zero casualties, and in the last decade they have been carrying out special operations in the convulsive area of the VRAEM; likewise, divers from the Salvage Group managed to successfully rescue the naval personnel trapped in the BAP Pacocha submarine, when it was sunk 130 feet deep, and then, after a year of hard work, it was taken again to surface, when its refloating was achieved.
The sailors who make up the Special Operations Force are aware of the risk involved in their work and the commitment of honor they swore for their country; that is why when undertaking their dangerous missions, they entrust themselves to God invoking the prayer that says "Lord, please grant us both Victory and Return, but if it is to be one thing, O God, grant us only Victory" |
ngerous missions, they entrust themselves to God invoking the prayer that says "Lord, please grant us both Victory and Return, but if it is to be one thing, O God, grant us only Victory" |
A hearing aid has three basic parts; a microphone, an amplifier and a speaker.
When someone speaks to a hearing aid wearer, their voice is amplified from the mic to the speaker in or near the ear. This amplified sound is useful for those individuals with hearing loss caused by damage or aging. Once patients have been diagnosed with hearing loss, their audiologists can help them decide which of the three types of hearing aids are best for the patients’ needs.
The Three Types Of Hearing Aids
- Behind-the ear (BTE) are made of a plastic case worn behind the ear which is connected to a plastic earmold that fits inside the outer ear. BTE hearing aids are utilized by patients of all ages and levels of hearing loss.
- In-the-ear (ITE) aids fit completely inside the outer ear, and include a magnetic telecoil feature which makes it easier to hear phone conversations. ITE’s are applicable for all levels of hearing loss.
- Canal aids can be either an in-the-canal (ITC) style made to fit the size and shape of a patient’s ear canal, or a completely-in-canal (CIC) style which is hidden within the ear canal. These types of aids are used mostly by those with mild to moderate hearing loss, due to the fact that this style has a reduced size and limited power and volume.
Each of these hearing aids work differently based on their style of electronic programming:
- Analog aids are programmable, and after being set by the manufacturer initially, can be adjusted later by both the audiologist and the user. Adjustments can be made using a program on a computer for changes in the listening environment (from small, quiet rooms to large open areas).
- Digital aids convert sounds using numerical codes, which allow the hearing aid to adjust automatically based on different pitches and/or loudness. Digital conversion also allows the hearing aid wearer to focus on sounds coming from a specific direction.
Choosing The Type Of Hearing Aid Right For You
After a careful diagnosis by and discussion with your doctor and/or audiologist, you might need |
ear canal, or a completely-in-canal (CIC) style which is hidden within the ear canal. These types of aids are used mostly by those with mild to moderate hearing loss, due to the fact that this style has a reduced size and limited power and volume.
Each of these hearing aids work differently based on their style of electronic programming:
- Analog aids are programmable, and after being set by the manufacturer initially, can be adjusted later by both the audiologist and the user. Adjustments can be made using a program on a computer for changes in the listening environment (from small, quiet rooms to large open areas).
- Digital aids convert sounds using numerical codes, which allow the hearing aid to adjust automatically based on different pitches and/or loudness. Digital conversion also allows the hearing aid wearer to focus on sounds coming from a specific direction.
Choosing The Type Of Hearing Aid Right For You
After a careful diagnosis by and discussion with your doctor and/or audiologist, you might need a custom designed hearing aid for you specific hearing problem, but if you simply have mild to moderate hearing loss like most people with hearing problems, the surgeon designed, MDHearingAid can be an effective and affordable choice.
A follow up appointment may be necessary for custom hearing aids in order to receive proper fitting, setting, and counseling on wear and care for this important purchase. With over the counter hearing aids, they really are plug and play, with a small a mount of time on getting comfortable wearing the aid and used to the simple settings.
Remember, no matter what type of hearing aid you may get, it takes some time and patience to learn about and adjust to wearing a hearing assisting device. Once this period of adjustment has occurred, the short time and effort involved will prove to be worth a lifetime of enjoyable, good hearing! |
a custom designed hearing aid for you specific hearing problem, but if you simply have mild to moderate hearing loss like most people with hearing problems, the surgeon designed, MDHearingAid can be an effective and affordable choice.
A follow up appointment may be necessary for custom hearing aids in order to receive proper fitting, setting, and counseling on wear and care for this important purchase. With over the counter hearing aids, they really are plug and play, with a small a mount of time on getting comfortable wearing the aid and used to the simple settings.
Remember, no matter what type of hearing aid you may get, it takes some time and patience to learn about and adjust to wearing a hearing assisting device. Once this period of adjustment has occurred, the short time and effort involved will prove to be worth a lifetime of enjoyable, good hearing! |
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and sepsis in hospitals are a common and unfortunate complication. Every year, around one out of every 25 hospital patients develops an HAI, with many of these infections developing into sepsis or other complications. The consistent rate of HAIs occurring in hospitals across the United States has the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other organizations taking an aggressive approach to prevent infections and ensure that hospitals adhere to standards.
Read on to learn more about HAIs and sepsis in hospitals, and what these often preventable infections could mean for your health. If you have questions about HAIs and your legal rights, contact our Houston medical malpractice lawyer to discuss your case.
HAIs are More Dangerous than Viral Infections
Unlike the more common viral infection, HAIs are caused by bacteria, which is aggressive and often resistant to antibiotics. This makes HAIs a tremendous concern for patients and the healthcare community at large. Without immediate and appropriate treatment, HAIs can quickly develop into complicated infections, such as sepsis or septic shock. In fact, a large portion of HAIs reported in hospitals are related to sepsis.
Sepsis is a type of HAI that occurs most commonly after surgery, among patients with compromised immune systems, patients with chronic health conditions, and the elderly. The National Institute of General Medical Sciences estimates that over one million Americans develop sepsis in hospitals each year. Of those, 15 to 30 percent die. Furthermore, these rates have continued to rise in recent years. The continued increase in the rate of sepsis in hospitals is attributed to:
- Increased tracking and data collection.
- Average age of Americans increasing, making the population of individuals living with chronic conditions also increasing.
- Many infections are resistant to antibiotics, which can increase the risk of developing sepsis.
- Organ transplants continue to be more common. Patients receiving an |
rge. Without immediate and appropriate treatment, HAIs can quickly develop into complicated infections, such as sepsis or septic shock. In fact, a large portion of HAIs reported in hospitals are related to sepsis.
Sepsis is a type of HAI that occurs most commonly after surgery, among patients with compromised immune systems, patients with chronic health conditions, and the elderly. The National Institute of General Medical Sciences estimates that over one million Americans develop sepsis in hospitals each year. Of those, 15 to 30 percent die. Furthermore, these rates have continued to rise in recent years. The continued increase in the rate of sepsis in hospitals is attributed to:
- Increased tracking and data collection.
- Average age of Americans increasing, making the population of individuals living with chronic conditions also increasing.
- Many infections are resistant to antibiotics, which can increase the risk of developing sepsis.
- Organ transplants continue to be more common. Patients receiving an organ transplant are at a much higher risk of developing an HAI or sepsis.
Why is Sepsis So Common in Hospitals?
Sepsis is the body’s immune response to infection, most commonly caused by bacteria. The chemicals released into the bloodstream to combat infection restrict blood flow and cause inflammation. Rather than fighting the infection, the overwhelming response leads to oxygen deprivation in the organs, a drop in blood pressure, and can lead to multiple organ failures.
In hospitals, sepsis is often caused by an underlying infection or bacteria that has been introduced into the body during the course of medical care. Some of the most common causes of sepsis in hospitals include:
Also called central venous catheters or intravenous catheters (IV), central lines are one of the most common causes for HAIs and sepsis in hospitals. Central lines are inserted into large veins in the neck, chest, or groin areas, and depending on the condition being treated, the line may remain in place for several days or weeks, o |
organ transplant are at a much higher risk of developing an HAI or sepsis.
Why is Sepsis So Common in Hospitals?
Sepsis is the body’s immune response to infection, most commonly caused by bacteria. The chemicals released into the bloodstream to combat infection restrict blood flow and cause inflammation. Rather than fighting the infection, the overwhelming response leads to oxygen deprivation in the organs, a drop in blood pressure, and can lead to multiple organ failures.
In hospitals, sepsis is often caused by an underlying infection or bacteria that has been introduced into the body during the course of medical care. Some of the most common causes of sepsis in hospitals include:
Also called central venous catheters or intravenous catheters (IV), central lines are one of the most common causes for HAIs and sepsis in hospitals. Central lines are inserted into large veins in the neck, chest, or groin areas, and depending on the condition being treated, the line may remain in place for several days or weeks, or even months. Because central lines are inserted into major veins and are kept in place for longer durations, the risk of infection and serious complications are higher.
Urinary Tract Infections
Many hospital patients require the use of a urinary catheter. This catheter is inserted into the urethra, and serves as a drain for urine during hospitalization. Urinary catheters are a common cause of infections, including the common catheter-associated urinary tract infection, or CAUTI. These are the most common HAI occurring in hospitals, with at least 75 percent of all UTIs occurring in hospitals being classified as a CAUTI.
Surgical Site Infections
Surgical site infections are a common risk factor in hospitals. Any time surgery is performed, there is a chance of bacteria entering the body. During recovery, there are also further opportunities for bacteria to move into the wound if it is not properly cleaned, covered, and taken care of. Surgical site infections are called SSIs, and can easily develop into sepsis |
r even months. Because central lines are inserted into major veins and are kept in place for longer durations, the risk of infection and serious complications are higher.
Urinary Tract Infections
Many hospital patients require the use of a urinary catheter. This catheter is inserted into the urethra, and serves as a drain for urine during hospitalization. Urinary catheters are a common cause of infections, including the common catheter-associated urinary tract infection, or CAUTI. These are the most common HAI occurring in hospitals, with at least 75 percent of all UTIs occurring in hospitals being classified as a CAUTI.
Surgical Site Infections
Surgical site infections are a common risk factor in hospitals. Any time surgery is performed, there is a chance of bacteria entering the body. During recovery, there are also further opportunities for bacteria to move into the wound if it is not properly cleaned, covered, and taken care of. Surgical site infections are called SSIs, and can easily develop into sepsis or septic shock. Bloodstream infections, including sepsis, following surgery occur at a rate of 5.23 percent, meaning that more than five percent of all surgical patients will develop an infection.
Patients who need help breathing may be placed on a ventilator. Ventilators have tubes that run down the throat and into the airway. The machine helps expand and retract the lungs and helps the patient breathe easier. Unfortunately, ventilators have been known to increase the risk of pneumonia. Ventilator tubes may provide an avenue for bacteria to travel into the lungs. Pneumonia, as a bacterial infection, is a common cause of sepsis in hospitals.
Strategies to Prevent HAIs and Sepsis in Hospitals
Due to some of the concerning rates of HAIs in U.S. hospitals, the CDC has initiated a series of prevention strategies. These strategies use surveillance, laboratory research, and outbreak investigations to develop improved prevention techniques. The CDC offers healthcare providers with toolkits and other information abo |
or septic shock. Bloodstream infections, including sepsis, following surgery occur at a rate of 5.23 percent, meaning that more than five percent of all surgical patients will develop an infection.
Patients who need help breathing may be placed on a ventilator. Ventilators have tubes that run down the throat and into the airway. The machine helps expand and retract the lungs and helps the patient breathe easier. Unfortunately, ventilators have been known to increase the risk of pneumonia. Ventilator tubes may provide an avenue for bacteria to travel into the lungs. Pneumonia, as a bacterial infection, is a common cause of sepsis in hospitals.
Strategies to Prevent HAIs and Sepsis in Hospitals
Due to some of the concerning rates of HAIs in U.S. hospitals, the CDC has initiated a series of prevention strategies. These strategies use surveillance, laboratory research, and outbreak investigations to develop improved prevention techniques. The CDC offers healthcare providers with toolkits and other information about how to prevent HAIs and protect providers and patients from infection. The CDC has specific guidelines for infection control and prevention, including:
- Disinfection and sterilization
- Hand hygiene
- Proper handling of laundry
- Environmental infection control
- Isolation precautions
- Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO)
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI)
- Organ transplantation
- Surgical site infection (SSI)
- Dialysis infection control
- Disease/organism-specific infection control guidelines:
- Tuberculosis (TB)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has also developed a committee dedicated to the prevention of HAIs and sepsis in hospitals. The HHS Steering Committee for the Prevention of Healthcare-Associated Infections began in 2008 and continues offer support for prevention strategies and healthcare education. The Committee developed a National Action Plan to Prevent Healthcare-Associated Infections: Road Map to Elimination, which includes the following:
- Phase |
ut how to prevent HAIs and protect providers and patients from infection. The CDC has specific guidelines for infection control and prevention, including:
- Disinfection and sterilization
- Hand hygiene
- Proper handling of laundry
- Environmental infection control
- Isolation precautions
- Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO)
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI)
- Organ transplantation
- Surgical site infection (SSI)
- Dialysis infection control
- Disease/organism-specific infection control guidelines:
- Tuberculosis (TB)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has also developed a committee dedicated to the prevention of HAIs and sepsis in hospitals. The HHS Steering Committee for the Prevention of Healthcare-Associated Infections began in 2008 and continues offer support for prevention strategies and healthcare education. The Committee developed a National Action Plan to Prevent Healthcare-Associated Infections: Road Map to Elimination, which includes the following:
- Phase One: Focuses on the top six high priority HAIs:
- Surgical site infections
- Central line-associated bloodstream infections
- Ventilator-associated events
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infections
- Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections
- Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections
- Phase Two: Expands infection control efforts outside hospitals to outpatient settings including end-stage renal disease facilities and ambulatory surgical centers. Phase two also promotes better influenza vaccination rates among healthcare providers.
- Phase Three: Further expands efforts to include long-term care facilities like nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, and skilled-nursing facilities.
- Phase Four: Reviews federal antibiotic stewardship efforts in various healthcare settings, and highlights the importance of stewardship in the prevention of HAIs.
Most healthcare facilities also have their own policies and procedures for infection control. It is up to those working in these environmen |
One: Focuses on the top six high priority HAIs:
- Surgical site infections
- Central line-associated bloodstream infections
- Ventilator-associated events
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infections
- Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections
- Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections
- Phase Two: Expands infection control efforts outside hospitals to outpatient settings including end-stage renal disease facilities and ambulatory surgical centers. Phase two also promotes better influenza vaccination rates among healthcare providers.
- Phase Three: Further expands efforts to include long-term care facilities like nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, and skilled-nursing facilities.
- Phase Four: Reviews federal antibiotic stewardship efforts in various healthcare settings, and highlights the importance of stewardship in the prevention of HAIs.
Most healthcare facilities also have their own policies and procedures for infection control. It is up to those working in these environments, however, to follow policies and procedures that will prevent HAIs and sepsis.
Sepsis Specific Guidelines
Several organizations also have specific guidelines for preventing and treating sepsis in hospitals. Many of these guidelines are similar to that of HAIs, but they address more specific factors associated with sepsis in hospitals, including factors related to the environment, patient condition, and prevention policies.
CMS guidelines are titled “Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock Early Management Bundle”. These guidelines were established in 2015 with the goal of preventing sepsis, identifying infections earlier, and ensuring that treatment is initiated as soon as possible.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also has guidelines for managing sepsis in healthcare settings. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign is one of the most widely-accepted sets of guidelines. Created in collaboration between the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine, the guidelin |
ts, however, to follow policies and procedures that will prevent HAIs and sepsis.
Sepsis Specific Guidelines
Several organizations also have specific guidelines for preventing and treating sepsis in hospitals. Many of these guidelines are similar to that of HAIs, but they address more specific factors associated with sepsis in hospitals, including factors related to the environment, patient condition, and prevention policies.
CMS guidelines are titled “Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock Early Management Bundle”. These guidelines were established in 2015 with the goal of preventing sepsis, identifying infections earlier, and ensuring that treatment is initiated as soon as possible.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also has guidelines for managing sepsis in healthcare settings. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign is one of the most widely-accepted sets of guidelines. Created in collaboration between the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine, the guidelines include guidance from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI).
The guideline bundles available for hospitals include critical care, intensive care, clinical practice guidelines, and severe sepsis guidelines. All of the guidelines are based on evidence-based practices and are intended to improve outcomes for patients. The essential guidelines include:
- Hospitals must measure serum lactate levels in patients with severe sepsis within three hours of a diagnosis being made.
- Hospitals must obtain blood cultures within three hours of diagnosis.
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics must be initiated within three hours of diagnosis.
- Healthcare providers should being rapid administration of crystalloid if hypotension (low blood pressure) is diagnosed, or if serum lactate levels are below a certain level.
- If, during or after fluid resuscitation, the patient’s blood pressure is still low, vasopressors should be applied.
- If the patient is diagnosed as being in septic shock, a further series of steps must be fo |
es include guidance from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI).
The guideline bundles available for hospitals include critical care, intensive care, clinical practice guidelines, and severe sepsis guidelines. All of the guidelines are based on evidence-based practices and are intended to improve outcomes for patients. The essential guidelines include:
- Hospitals must measure serum lactate levels in patients with severe sepsis within three hours of a diagnosis being made.
- Hospitals must obtain blood cultures within three hours of diagnosis.
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics must be initiated within three hours of diagnosis.
- Healthcare providers should being rapid administration of crystalloid if hypotension (low blood pressure) is diagnosed, or if serum lactate levels are below a certain level.
- If, during or after fluid resuscitation, the patient’s blood pressure is still low, vasopressors should be applied.
- If the patient is diagnosed as being in septic shock, a further series of steps must be followed within six hours.
It is important that healthcare providers and staff adhere to infection control policies in order to preserve patient safety and health.
Infection In Hospitals Could be a Sign of Negligence
Healthcare facilities have a tremendous responsibility to care for patients and maintain an environment that is safe and healthy. Often, hospitals are kept clean and safe, and infection control policies are followed. Sadly, as the data discussed above shows, there are plenty of reports of noncompliance to raise concern.
Sepsis in hospitals could be the result of unavoidable complications, or it could be a sign of negligence. If hospital staff do not follow infection control guidelines, then patients may be at risk for developing preventable illnesses or complications. |
llowed within six hours.
It is important that healthcare providers and staff adhere to infection control policies in order to preserve patient safety and health.
Infection In Hospitals Could be a Sign of Negligence
Healthcare facilities have a tremendous responsibility to care for patients and maintain an environment that is safe and healthy. Often, hospitals are kept clean and safe, and infection control policies are followed. Sadly, as the data discussed above shows, there are plenty of reports of noncompliance to raise concern.
Sepsis in hospitals could be the result of unavoidable complications, or it could be a sign of negligence. If hospital staff do not follow infection control guidelines, then patients may be at risk for developing preventable illnesses or complications. |
Vaccinated people are less likely to get so-called long COVID, while those infected while unvaccinated may recover from persistent symptoms faster if they get the shot, a U.K. Health Security Agency review determined.
Fully vaccinated people who became infected with COVID-19 were roughly half as likely to have any symptoms lasting more than a month, 78% less likely to have symptoms lasting 12 to 20 weeks, and 13% less likely to have at least one symptom at 6 months, according to six of the eight studies summarized in a rapid evidence briefing document.
One preprint study of moderate quality suggested the opposite -- a more than twofold higher risk of symptoms at 4 weeks from the date of diagnosis versus unvaccinated participants -- but it wasn't clear why this study contradicted the rest, the document noted, calling for more analysis.
In studies that broke down symptoms individually, there was lower likelihood of developing olfactory dysfunction and significantly lower risk at 6 months for anosmia, fatigue, hair loss, interstitial lung disease, myalgia, and "other" pain.
These findings are likely an underestimate of the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing long COVID, since the studies included only vaccinated people who were infected, not those who had infection prevented entirely, the document pointed out.
The review also found that people who already had long COVID but then got vaccinated were more likely to have improvement in symptoms -- either immediately or in the weeks afterward -- compared with those who remained unvaccinated, although most had no change in symptoms and a small number had worsening after vaccination.
The one study that looked at timing of vaccination suggested that getting the shot sooner was much better than later in terms of likelihood of symptom improvement.
"These studies add to the potential benefits of receiving a full course of the COVID-19 vaccination," said Mary Ramsay, MBBS, head of immunization at the U.K. agency, in a statement. "Vaccination is the best way to protect y |
air loss, interstitial lung disease, myalgia, and "other" pain.
These findings are likely an underestimate of the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing long COVID, since the studies included only vaccinated people who were infected, not those who had infection prevented entirely, the document pointed out.
The review also found that people who already had long COVID but then got vaccinated were more likely to have improvement in symptoms -- either immediately or in the weeks afterward -- compared with those who remained unvaccinated, although most had no change in symptoms and a small number had worsening after vaccination.
The one study that looked at timing of vaccination suggested that getting the shot sooner was much better than later in terms of likelihood of symptom improvement.
"These studies add to the potential benefits of receiving a full course of the COVID-19 vaccination," said Mary Ramsay, MBBS, head of immunization at the U.K. agency, in a statement. "Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from serious symptoms when you get infected and may also help to reduce the longer-term impact."
An estimated 2% of the U.K. population reported COVID symptoms lasting more than 4 weeks after infection as of Dec. 6, 2021, well into the Omicron wave of the pandemic.
According to a prior review of mobile app data tracking cases in U.S., U.K., and Swedish populations, symptoms persisted in up to 13% of infected individuals at 1 to 2 months and in 2.6% for 3 months or longer. Potentially more reliable data from clinic-based assessments suggested that 33% to 98% of survivors have symptoms for at least a month after infection.
The U.K. Health Security Agency analysis included a total of 15 studies of long COVID: four from the U.S., four from the U.K., two from India, two online with participants in multiple countries, and one each from France, Indonesia, and Israel. Full vaccination was universally considered two doses of a two-dose vaccine series or one of a single-dose vaccine.
The document cautioned that |
ourself from serious symptoms when you get infected and may also help to reduce the longer-term impact."
An estimated 2% of the U.K. population reported COVID symptoms lasting more than 4 weeks after infection as of Dec. 6, 2021, well into the Omicron wave of the pandemic.
According to a prior review of mobile app data tracking cases in U.S., U.K., and Swedish populations, symptoms persisted in up to 13% of infected individuals at 1 to 2 months and in 2.6% for 3 months or longer. Potentially more reliable data from clinic-based assessments suggested that 33% to 98% of survivors have symptoms for at least a month after infection.
The U.K. Health Security Agency analysis included a total of 15 studies of long COVID: four from the U.S., four from the U.K., two from India, two online with participants in multiple countries, and one each from France, Indonesia, and Israel. Full vaccination was universally considered two doses of a two-dose vaccine series or one of a single-dose vaccine.
The document cautioned that all of the studies considered were observational. "As there are many differences between people who are and are not vaccinated, there is a risk in all these studies that factors other than vaccination status may have influenced the results (in any direction)," it pointed out.
Additionally, the studies varied widely in their definition of long COVID, and the rapid review precluded pooled or meta-analysis of the findings together.
U.K. Health Security Agency
Source Reference: UKHSA COVID-19 Evidence Team "The effectiveness of vaccination against long COVID: A rapid evidence briefing" U.K. Health Security Agency 2022. |
all of the studies considered were observational. "As there are many differences between people who are and are not vaccinated, there is a risk in all these studies that factors other than vaccination status may have influenced the results (in any direction)," it pointed out.
Additionally, the studies varied widely in their definition of long COVID, and the rapid review precluded pooled or meta-analysis of the findings together.
U.K. Health Security Agency
Source Reference: UKHSA COVID-19 Evidence Team "The effectiveness of vaccination against long COVID: A rapid evidence briefing" U.K. Health Security Agency 2022. |
How to Use Graphs Effectively
Many times, you can use a graph to represent data in a more organized way, and in a more visual way. Say we have the equation y equals 2x minus 3. What can do is plug in a couple of numbers for x and then find out what number we get for y, and then we can come out with some coordinates plug them in here, and then draw a line representing the values of this equation.
We’re going to start out by plugging in 0 for x. I’m just going to put parentheses like that. 2 times 0 is 0, minus 3, equals -3, so y equals -3. The first coordinate we get is x equals 0 and y equals -3. We’re going to plug in 5 for x, so we’re going to put 5 in parentheses.
We get 10 minus 3 equals 7, so y equals 7. In this case x equals 5, y equals 7. We have these two coordinates you just plug these in to this graph right here, and we can get a line. We have these dash marks here. I need to go ahead and label these, so we have this x axis, which runs horizontal, left to right.
Then we have the y axis, which runs vertical, or up and down. On the right side of the y axis the x axis is positive, and on the left side it is negative. This works similarly for the y axis. Above the x axis it’s positive, and below it’s negative. First, we’re going take a look at this coordinate right here.
We have the x coordinate and the y coordinate, we find x first which is 0, so we are right here. Then we go down to -3 and draw a dot, and I’m going to go ahead and put the coordinates right there. Then we look for the x coordinate first and then the y coordinates.
We find 5, then we need to go all the way up to 7, we’re going to need to extend this line a little bit to make it up there. We’re going to go from 5 all the way up to 7 and draw a dot. Then we just need to draw a line all the way up there.
If you’re using a piece of paper, you can often use a ruler, so I’m just going to attempt to freehand this which means the line is not going to be very straight as you can see, but we do need to draw the coordinates -or write the coordinates f |
ertical, or up and down. On the right side of the y axis the x axis is positive, and on the left side it is negative. This works similarly for the y axis. Above the x axis it’s positive, and below it’s negative. First, we’re going take a look at this coordinate right here.
We have the x coordinate and the y coordinate, we find x first which is 0, so we are right here. Then we go down to -3 and draw a dot, and I’m going to go ahead and put the coordinates right there. Then we look for the x coordinate first and then the y coordinates.
We find 5, then we need to go all the way up to 7, we’re going to need to extend this line a little bit to make it up there. We’re going to go from 5 all the way up to 7 and draw a dot. Then we just need to draw a line all the way up there.
If you’re using a piece of paper, you can often use a ruler, so I’m just going to attempt to freehand this which means the line is not going to be very straight as you can see, but we do need to draw the coordinates -or write the coordinates for that too. Then we have a line, and you can go all the way up this line and see different points on it.
You can go “Oh okay, if x equals this certain number, then y is equal this certain number.” Because you can follow it across here, you can go down and find the x coordinate, and then go across and find the y coordinate to figure out some other coordinates here, or to figure out some other values for x and y. Here you just have coordinates written on a page. It may not mean much to you, it’s hard to visualize what that looks like. Here you have a real visual format, real organized way to view a lot of data, and then be able to keep it and comprehended. |
or that too. Then we have a line, and you can go all the way up this line and see different points on it.
You can go “Oh okay, if x equals this certain number, then y is equal this certain number.” Because you can follow it across here, you can go down and find the x coordinate, and then go across and find the y coordinate to figure out some other coordinates here, or to figure out some other values for x and y. Here you just have coordinates written on a page. It may not mean much to you, it’s hard to visualize what that looks like. Here you have a real visual format, real organized way to view a lot of data, and then be able to keep it and comprehended. |
An independent panel will be set up to investigate the deaths of thousands of dead crabs and lobsters that were washed ashore onto North Sea beaches last year, the UK government has announced.
Mass numbers of dying crustaceans were found along parts of the north-east coast of England between October and December 2021. There were distressing scenes of large numbers dead on beaches with fishing crews warning that sparse catches offshore following the event was “catastrophic” for their livelihoods.
Chief scientific adviser from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Professor Gideon Henderson, said the deaths were “unusual” and that “it is important we understand its cause.”
The panel will consider the impact of dredging around a freeport development in Teesside and the presence of pyridine, a chemical pollutant, among other potential causes, Defra said.
What happened on the Teesside and North Yorkshire coast?
Residents of coastal communities close to the mouth of the River Tees have been raising the alarm over the deaths of crustaceans since autumn last year.
An initial report by Defra blamed a naturally occurring algal bloom. But independent researchers blamed chemicals released by dredging operations linked to the development of the government’s flagship freeport at the mouth of the Tees.
The development on Europe’s largest brownfield site is expected to bring as many as 18,000 new jobs to the area. But some fear the extensive demolition, rebuilding and dredging work has disturbed pollutants that have lain dormant in the area and the surrounding seabed for decades.
Earlier this month the chair of the House of Commons environment select committee called for an urgent investigation into whether dredging had caused the deaths.
However, Defra stopped short of granting the request of Sir Robert Goodwill, MP of Scarborough and Whitby, to minimise dredging while the investigation took place.
Joe Redfern, secretary of Whitby Commercial Fishing Association, told Defra’s select committee that he th |
n raising the alarm over the deaths of crustaceans since autumn last year.
An initial report by Defra blamed a naturally occurring algal bloom. But independent researchers blamed chemicals released by dredging operations linked to the development of the government’s flagship freeport at the mouth of the Tees.
The development on Europe’s largest brownfield site is expected to bring as many as 18,000 new jobs to the area. But some fear the extensive demolition, rebuilding and dredging work has disturbed pollutants that have lain dormant in the area and the surrounding seabed for decades.
Earlier this month the chair of the House of Commons environment select committee called for an urgent investigation into whether dredging had caused the deaths.
However, Defra stopped short of granting the request of Sir Robert Goodwill, MP of Scarborough and Whitby, to minimise dredging while the investigation took place.
Joe Redfern, secretary of Whitby Commercial Fishing Association, told Defra’s select committee that he thinks further dredging could bring an end to the North East fishing industry. He believes it is “undoubtable” that dredging and pyridine have played a part in the die-offs.
What have investigations found to have caused the deaths?
An official investigation into the incident was led by Defra and it pointed the finger at an algal bloom as the likely cause. It concluded it was unlikely that dredging, chemical or sewage pollution or animal disease had been the cause.
However, subsequent research by academics, backed by the fishing industry, suggested the incident could have been caused by industrial pollutant pyridine, possibly from dredging in the mouth of the River Tees to maintain channels for port traffic.
There have been calls for a halt to dredging for the new Teesside freeport pending a full analysis of the situation.
In a letter to the parliamentary Defra’s committee, which has been examining the issue, fisheries minister Mark Spencer said an independent group would be established to assess the evidence ar |
inks further dredging could bring an end to the North East fishing industry. He believes it is “undoubtable” that dredging and pyridine have played a part in the die-offs.
What have investigations found to have caused the deaths?
An official investigation into the incident was led by Defra and it pointed the finger at an algal bloom as the likely cause. It concluded it was unlikely that dredging, chemical or sewage pollution or animal disease had been the cause.
However, subsequent research by academics, backed by the fishing industry, suggested the incident could have been caused by industrial pollutant pyridine, possibly from dredging in the mouth of the River Tees to maintain channels for port traffic.
There have been calls for a halt to dredging for the new Teesside freeport pending a full analysis of the situation.
In a letter to the parliamentary Defra’s committee, which has been examining the issue, fisheries minister Mark Spencer said an independent group would be established to assess the evidence around the incident and consider all explanations. This would include the possible roles of algal blooms, dredging and pyridine.
Mr Spencer said that Professor Henderson, who has not previously been involved in considering this issue, would liaise with the government chief scientist Sir Patrick Vallance to establish the independent group.
It would consider the findings of the Defra-led investigation published in May 2022 and subsequent analysis from university researchers.
What has been said about the further research?
Mr Spencer said: “I recognise fishing communities in the North East want as thorough an assessment as possible into the crab and lobster deaths last year. Defra’s investigation concluded that the most likely cause was an algal bloom, but we have always recognised this is a complex area of science and have remained open to further research.
“That’s why it is right that all the evidence is now assessed by independent experts and I look forward to receiving their advice.”
Professor Henderson comment |
ound the incident and consider all explanations. This would include the possible roles of algal blooms, dredging and pyridine.
Mr Spencer said that Professor Henderson, who has not previously been involved in considering this issue, would liaise with the government chief scientist Sir Patrick Vallance to establish the independent group.
It would consider the findings of the Defra-led investigation published in May 2022 and subsequent analysis from university researchers.
What has been said about the further research?
Mr Spencer said: “I recognise fishing communities in the North East want as thorough an assessment as possible into the crab and lobster deaths last year. Defra’s investigation concluded that the most likely cause was an algal bloom, but we have always recognised this is a complex area of science and have remained open to further research.
“That’s why it is right that all the evidence is now assessed by independent experts and I look forward to receiving their advice.”
Professor Henderson commented that the “death of a large number of crustaceans last year in north-east England was unusual” and the causes have been “assessed and informed with a wide range of measurements, by Government agencies and by university researchers, with more than one explanation put forward to explain the deaths.”
He added: “The increased sea life mortality has important consequences for local communities and it is important we understand its cause.” |
ed that the “death of a large number of crustaceans last year in north-east England was unusual” and the causes have been “assessed and informed with a wide range of measurements, by Government agencies and by university researchers, with more than one explanation put forward to explain the deaths.”
He added: “The increased sea life mortality has important consequences for local communities and it is important we understand its cause.” |
In Greek mythology, Prometheus (ancient Greek: Προμηθεύς, "forethought") is the Titan honored chiefly for stealing fire from Zeus and giving it to mortals for their use. For this transgression, Zeus ordered that Prometheus be chained to the summit of the Caucasus Mountains for eternity. On each day that followed, an eagle would come and eat his liver. Since Prometheus was immortal, his liver always regenerated, and so he was left to bear this horrible pain every daily. Prometheus is commonly depicted in myth as an intelligent and cunning figure who had sympathy for humanity; today, the term "Promethean" is used to describe people who are connected with great creativity, intellect, and boldness.
Place among the gods
Prometheus was a son of the Titan Iapetus by Clymene, one of the Oceanids. He was also a brother of Atlas, Menoetius, and Epimetheus (the "one who thinks too late;" his polar opposite). He surpassed each of these siblings in cunning and deceit. He would go on to become the father of Deucalion with Pronoia. It was Prometheus who warned Deucalion of Zeus' plan to send a flood to destroy humankind, and subsequently advised his son to build an ark in order to sail to safety.
In general, Prometheus was not fearful of the gods, and he openly ridiculed Zeus, although he was favored by the supreme god for his assistance in the fight against Cronus. Furthermore, it was Prometheus who helped cure Zeus of a particularly horrendous headache. No healer was able to emancipate the king of the gods from this ailment, and so Prometheus came to him and declared that he knew the appropriate remedy, then promptly took a rock from the ground and hit Zeus over the head with it. Out of the wound on Zeus' head climbed the Goddess Athena, and Zeus' headache disappeared. Alternative versions of these myths identify Hephaestus or Hera, rather than Prometheus, as the individual who split Zeus' head open.
Creation of humanity
Prometheus, in Ovid's Metamorphoses, is credited with the creation of human-beings "in godlike image" from |
Pronoia. It was Prometheus who warned Deucalion of Zeus' plan to send a flood to destroy humankind, and subsequently advised his son to build an ark in order to sail to safety.
In general, Prometheus was not fearful of the gods, and he openly ridiculed Zeus, although he was favored by the supreme god for his assistance in the fight against Cronus. Furthermore, it was Prometheus who helped cure Zeus of a particularly horrendous headache. No healer was able to emancipate the king of the gods from this ailment, and so Prometheus came to him and declared that he knew the appropriate remedy, then promptly took a rock from the ground and hit Zeus over the head with it. Out of the wound on Zeus' head climbed the Goddess Athena, and Zeus' headache disappeared. Alternative versions of these myths identify Hephaestus or Hera, rather than Prometheus, as the individual who split Zeus' head open.
Creation of humanity
Prometheus, in Ovid's Metamorphoses, is credited with the creation of human-beings "in godlike image" from clay, a role which is assigned to Zeus in other variations of the creation myth. According to the myths, Prometheus and his brother Epimetheus were ordered by Cronus to make creatures that would populate the earth. Prometheus carefully crafted a creature after the shape of the gods: A man. Prometheus and Epimetheus journeyed to Earth from Olympus, then ventured to the Greek province of Boitia and made clay figures. Zeus took the figures and breathed life into them. The figures that Prometheus had created became human beings and honored him. The figures that his brother Epimetheus had created, meanwhile, became the beasts, which turned and attacked him.
Zeus was angered by the actions of Prometheus and Epimetheus, and he forbade the pair from teaching humanity the ways of civilization. Athena chose to go against Zeus and taught Prometheus so that he might teach humanity. For their actions, Zeus demanded that a sacrifice be made to the Gods from human beings to demonstrate that they were obedient and worshipfu |
clay, a role which is assigned to Zeus in other variations of the creation myth. According to the myths, Prometheus and his brother Epimetheus were ordered by Cronus to make creatures that would populate the earth. Prometheus carefully crafted a creature after the shape of the gods: A man. Prometheus and Epimetheus journeyed to Earth from Olympus, then ventured to the Greek province of Boitia and made clay figures. Zeus took the figures and breathed life into them. The figures that Prometheus had created became human beings and honored him. The figures that his brother Epimetheus had created, meanwhile, became the beasts, which turned and attacked him.
Zeus was angered by the actions of Prometheus and Epimetheus, and he forbade the pair from teaching humanity the ways of civilization. Athena chose to go against Zeus and taught Prometheus so that he might teach humanity. For their actions, Zeus demanded that a sacrifice be made to the Gods from human beings to demonstrate that they were obedient and worshipful. The gods and mortal man had arranged a meeting at Mecone where the matter of division of sacrifice was to be settled. Prometheus slew a large ox, and divided it into two piles. In one pile he put all the meat and most of the fat, cleverly covering it with the ox's grotesque stomach, while in the other pile, he dressed up the bones artfully with shining fat.
Prometheus then invited Zeus to choose a pile for the gods. Zeus, however, saw through the trick, but nonetheless chose the pile of bones, since he realized that in willfully getting tricked he would have an excuse to vent his anger upon mortal humans. Alternative sources claim that Zeus did not, in fact, see through this ruse. This provides a mythological explanation for the common practice in ancient Greece whereby worshipers would sacrifice only bones to the gods, while keeping the meat and fat for themselves.
In his wrath, Zeus denied humankind the secret of fire. In the wake of this punishment, Prometheus watched his creations as they shivered tho |
l. The gods and mortal man had arranged a meeting at Mecone where the matter of division of sacrifice was to be settled. Prometheus slew a large ox, and divided it into two piles. In one pile he put all the meat and most of the fat, cleverly covering it with the ox's grotesque stomach, while in the other pile, he dressed up the bones artfully with shining fat.
Prometheus then invited Zeus to choose a pile for the gods. Zeus, however, saw through the trick, but nonetheless chose the pile of bones, since he realized that in willfully getting tricked he would have an excuse to vent his anger upon mortal humans. Alternative sources claim that Zeus did not, in fact, see through this ruse. This provides a mythological explanation for the common practice in ancient Greece whereby worshipers would sacrifice only bones to the gods, while keeping the meat and fat for themselves.
In his wrath, Zeus denied humankind the secret of fire. In the wake of this punishment, Prometheus watched his creations as they shivered though the cold winter nights and was overcome with sympathy. He decided to give his most loved creation a great gift. He stealthily stole fire from the hearth of the gods and brought it to humans in a hollow wand of fennel that served him in place of a staff. He brought down the fire and gave it to the humans, then instructed them as to how they could cook and stay warm.
Zeus was enraged by Prometheus' insubordinate action. However, Zeus could not simply take fire back, because a god or goddess was not able to take away what another had god or goddess had given. For Prometheus' act of hubris, Zeus devised a punishment that would suppress all of humankind while rendering Prometheus unable to succor them. Zeus had Prometheus carried to Mount Caucasus, upon the summit of which he was bound to a rock. Here an eagle by the name of Ethon would arrive daily to peck at his liver. Since Prometheus was immortal, his liver would grow back each day, and so the eagle would be able to eat it again.
In other variations of thi |
ugh the cold winter nights and was overcome with sympathy. He decided to give his most loved creation a great gift. He stealthily stole fire from the hearth of the gods and brought it to humans in a hollow wand of fennel that served him in place of a staff. He brought down the fire and gave it to the humans, then instructed them as to how they could cook and stay warm.
Zeus was enraged by Prometheus' insubordinate action. However, Zeus could not simply take fire back, because a god or goddess was not able to take away what another had god or goddess had given. For Prometheus' act of hubris, Zeus devised a punishment that would suppress all of humankind while rendering Prometheus unable to succor them. Zeus had Prometheus carried to Mount Caucasus, upon the summit of which he was bound to a rock. Here an eagle by the name of Ethon would arrive daily to peck at his liver. Since Prometheus was immortal, his liver would grow back each day, and so the eagle would be able to eat it again.
In other variations of this story, Zeus has Prometheus tortured on the mountain because he had come to know the name of the person who, according to prophecy, would overthrow the king of the gods. This punishment was to last for eternity. About twelve generations later, Zeus's very own son Heracles, passing by on his way to find the apples of the Hesperides as part of his Twelve Labors, freed Prometheus. Once free, Prometheus captured Ethon and ate the bird's liver as revenge for his pain and suffering. Zeus was not overly perturbed upon hearing that Prometheus had again evaded his punishment, as the act brought more glory to his son. However, there was a problem, since Zeus had already decided that Prometheus would be tied in the rock for eternity. According to Greek mythology, this could never change, even if Zeus himself wished it. Finally, a solution was found: Prometheus was invited to return to Mount Olympus and was given a ring by Zeus that contained a piece of the rock to which he had been previously bound. Prometheus liked th |
s story, Zeus has Prometheus tortured on the mountain because he had come to know the name of the person who, according to prophecy, would overthrow the king of the gods. This punishment was to last for eternity. About twelve generations later, Zeus's very own son Heracles, passing by on his way to find the apples of the Hesperides as part of his Twelve Labors, freed Prometheus. Once free, Prometheus captured Ethon and ate the bird's liver as revenge for his pain and suffering. Zeus was not overly perturbed upon hearing that Prometheus had again evaded his punishment, as the act brought more glory to his son. However, there was a problem, since Zeus had already decided that Prometheus would be tied in the rock for eternity. According to Greek mythology, this could never change, even if Zeus himself wished it. Finally, a solution was found: Prometheus was invited to return to Mount Olympus and was given a ring by Zeus that contained a piece of the rock to which he had been previously bound. Prometheus liked this ring and decided to wear it thereafter for eternity, technically fulfilling the conditions of Zeus' earlier decree.
To punish human beings for the offenses of Prometheus, Zeus told Hephaestus to "mingle together all things loveliest, sweetest, and best, but look that you also mingle therewith the opposites of each." So Hephaestus took gold and dross, wax and flint, snow and mud, honey and gall, the bloom of the rose and the toad's venom, the voice of laughing water and the peacocks squall, the sea's beauty and its treachery, the dog's fidelity and the wind's inconstancy, and the mother bird's heart of love and the cruelty of the tiger. All these and other contraries beyond enumeration he blended cunningly into one substance and this he molded into the shape that Zeus had described to him. What resulted was a maiden as beautiful as a goddess, who Zeus named Pandora which meant "all gifted." Zeus breathed upon her image, and it lived. The king of the gods sent her to wed Prometheus' brother, Epimetheus, and |
is ring and decided to wear it thereafter for eternity, technically fulfilling the conditions of Zeus' earlier decree.
To punish human beings for the offenses of Prometheus, Zeus told Hephaestus to "mingle together all things loveliest, sweetest, and best, but look that you also mingle therewith the opposites of each." So Hephaestus took gold and dross, wax and flint, snow and mud, honey and gall, the bloom of the rose and the toad's venom, the voice of laughing water and the peacocks squall, the sea's beauty and its treachery, the dog's fidelity and the wind's inconstancy, and the mother bird's heart of love and the cruelty of the tiger. All these and other contraries beyond enumeration he blended cunningly into one substance and this he molded into the shape that Zeus had described to him. What resulted was a maiden as beautiful as a goddess, who Zeus named Pandora which meant "all gifted." Zeus breathed upon her image, and it lived. The king of the gods sent her to wed Prometheus' brother, Epimetheus, and although Prometheus had warned his brother never to accept gifts from the Olympians, Epimetheus was love-stricken, and he and Pandora wed. The gods adorned the couple with many wedding gifts, and Zeus presented them with a beautifully wrought box, known today as Pandora's Box. When Pandora opened the box, all suffering and despair was unleashed upon humankind, and Zeus had finally taken his revenge.
As the introducer of fire and inventor of crafts, Prometheus was seen as the patron of human civilization, thus, it is not surprising that he was commemorated to some extent in Greek worship. A small shrine to Prometheus was located in the Kerameikos, or potter's quarter, of Athens, not far from Plato's Academy. As is common in many altars and votive reliefs to Prometheus, he was honored in an altar with Hephaestus. In the Akademia, located just outside of Athens, there stood another altar to Prometheus, from which athletes raced to the city carrying burning torches. The contest involved keeping the torch alight w |
although Prometheus had warned his brother never to accept gifts from the Olympians, Epimetheus was love-stricken, and he and Pandora wed. The gods adorned the couple with many wedding gifts, and Zeus presented them with a beautifully wrought box, known today as Pandora's Box. When Pandora opened the box, all suffering and despair was unleashed upon humankind, and Zeus had finally taken his revenge.
As the introducer of fire and inventor of crafts, Prometheus was seen as the patron of human civilization, thus, it is not surprising that he was commemorated to some extent in Greek worship. A small shrine to Prometheus was located in the Kerameikos, or potter's quarter, of Athens, not far from Plato's Academy. As is common in many altars and votive reliefs to Prometheus, he was honored in an altar with Hephaestus. In the Akademia, located just outside of Athens, there stood another altar to Prometheus, from which athletes raced to the city carrying burning torches. The contest involved keeping the torch alight while running; if the torch of the lead runner came to be extinguished, he lost his claim to victory. The festival during which these torch races took place was known as Promethia. In Argos, the chief city of Argolis in Southern Greece, the citizens kept a tomb of Prometheus and honored him as a dead hero. The city of Opous in Central Greece also claimed to honor a grave of Prometheus.
The myth of Prometheus is one of the most popular Greek myths, and has enjoyed reverberations in art, literature, and even science. His story has inspired many authors, composers, and artists throughout the centuries, and various works have been created that either allude to Prometheus or use his story as a template. Among the most famous of these are the play Prometheus Bound, traditionally attributed to Aeschylus (525-456 B.C.E.), and Mary Shelley's 1818 novel Frankenstein, the alternative title of which is The Modern Prometheus. The following year, Shelley's husband, Percy Bysshe Shelley, also contributed a play with similar |
hile running; if the torch of the lead runner came to be extinguished, he lost his claim to victory. The festival during which these torch races took place was known as Promethia. In Argos, the chief city of Argolis in Southern Greece, the citizens kept a tomb of Prometheus and honored him as a dead hero. The city of Opous in Central Greece also claimed to honor a grave of Prometheus.
The myth of Prometheus is one of the most popular Greek myths, and has enjoyed reverberations in art, literature, and even science. His story has inspired many authors, composers, and artists throughout the centuries, and various works have been created that either allude to Prometheus or use his story as a template. Among the most famous of these are the play Prometheus Bound, traditionally attributed to Aeschylus (525-456 B.C.E.), and Mary Shelley's 1818 novel Frankenstein, the alternative title of which is The Modern Prometheus. The following year, Shelley's husband, Percy Bysshe Shelley, also contributed a play with similar themes entitled Prometheus Unbound. Shelley, among other Romantics, saw Prometheus as the prototypical genius. Prometheus inspired a number of poems in which he was the titular character, such as those by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Lord Byron. Ludwig van Beethoven provided a musical composition inspired by the Promethean myth entitled Die Geschöpfe des Prometheus, op. 43. Additionally, Prometheus is alluded to in the works of literary giants such as Shakespeare, Franz Kafka, James Joyce, and Thomas Hardy. In the twentieth and twenty-first century, Prometheus has also been a subject of numerous avenues of popular culture in general, spanning a gamut of mainstream media including fiction, film, and comic books.
Additionally, Prometheus has also been widely acknowledged by science, as he represents the continuous unraveling of human understanding. As such, many scientific discoveries have been given his name. One of Saturn's inner satellites is named Prometheus after the Titan, as is the asteroid 1809 Promet |
themes entitled Prometheus Unbound. Shelley, among other Romantics, saw Prometheus as the prototypical genius. Prometheus inspired a number of poems in which he was the titular character, such as those by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Lord Byron. Ludwig van Beethoven provided a musical composition inspired by the Promethean myth entitled Die Geschöpfe des Prometheus, op. 43. Additionally, Prometheus is alluded to in the works of literary giants such as Shakespeare, Franz Kafka, James Joyce, and Thomas Hardy. In the twentieth and twenty-first century, Prometheus has also been a subject of numerous avenues of popular culture in general, spanning a gamut of mainstream media including fiction, film, and comic books.
Additionally, Prometheus has also been widely acknowledged by science, as he represents the continuous unraveling of human understanding. As such, many scientific discoveries have been given his name. One of Saturn's inner satellites is named Prometheus after the Titan, as is the asteroid 1809 Prometheus. The name for the sixty-first element Promethium is also derived from Prometheus. In 2003, the first ever cloned horse to be born from and carried by its cloning mother was named Prometea, the feminine form of Prometeos, the Italian form of "Prometheus."
- Graves, 52.
- Avery, 470.
- C. Galli, et al., 635.
ReferencesISBN links support NWE through referral fees
- Avery, Catherine B. The New Century Handbook of Greek Mythology and Legend. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1972. ISBN 0390669466
- Burkert, Walter. Greek Religion (John Raffan, trans.). Oxford: Blackwell Press, 1985. ISBN 0631112413
- Buxton, Richard. The Complete World of Greek Mythology. Thames & Hudson, 2004. ISBN 978-0500251218
- Galli, C., et al. "A cloned horse born to its dam twin." Nature 424 (Aug. 7), 2003. 635.
- Graves, Robert. The Greek Myths. Harmondsworth, Middlesex: Penguin Books, 1960. ISBN 014020508X
- Rose, H. J. A Handbook of Greek Mythology. Routledge, 1990. ISBN 978-0415046015
All links retrieved December 1, 2022.
New Wor |
heus. The name for the sixty-first element Promethium is also derived from Prometheus. In 2003, the first ever cloned horse to be born from and carried by its cloning mother was named Prometea, the feminine form of Prometeos, the Italian form of "Prometheus."
- Graves, 52.
- Avery, 470.
- C. Galli, et al., 635.
ReferencesISBN links support NWE through referral fees
- Avery, Catherine B. The New Century Handbook of Greek Mythology and Legend. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1972. ISBN 0390669466
- Burkert, Walter. Greek Religion (John Raffan, trans.). Oxford: Blackwell Press, 1985. ISBN 0631112413
- Buxton, Richard. The Complete World of Greek Mythology. Thames & Hudson, 2004. ISBN 978-0500251218
- Galli, C., et al. "A cloned horse born to its dam twin." Nature 424 (Aug. 7), 2003. 635.
- Graves, Robert. The Greek Myths. Harmondsworth, Middlesex: Penguin Books, 1960. ISBN 014020508X
- Rose, H. J. A Handbook of Greek Mythology. Routledge, 1990. ISBN 978-0415046015
All links retrieved December 1, 2022.
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ld Encyclopedia writers and editors rewrote and completed the Wikipedia article in accordance with New World Encyclopedia standards. This article abides by terms of the Creative Commons CC-by-sa 3.0 License (CC-by-sa), which may be used and disseminated with proper attribution. Credit is due under the terms of this license that can reference both the New World Encyclopedia contributors and the selfless volunteer contributors of the Wikimedia Foundation. To cite this article click here for a list of acceptable citing formats.The history of earlier contributions by wikipedians is accessible to researchers here:
The history of this article since it was imported to New World Encyclopedia:
Note: Some restrictions may apply to use of individual images which are separately licensed. |
To Collect or Not to Collect
As higher visitation and climate change increasingly threaten artifacts, can the Park Service afford to leave them in place?
The olla lay in a hollow under a boulder on the right bank of the Colorado River for a very long time. Sheltered from monsoon rains, shaded from the desert sun and perched above the floods that scoured the Grand Canyon every spring until dams were built upstream, the ceramic jar sat as a silent reminder of the Ancestral Puebloan people’s millennia-long relationship to this place.
National Park Service archaeologists first documented the pot in its niche in 1990. Though park staff sought to keep its location secret, word of the remarkable object started to spread. In 2008, rangers noted a faint trail up to the olla’s perch from the riverbank. “The pot remains intact and in place, though it has clearly been removed and handled, perhaps multiple times,” read a monitoring report. In early 2012, staff noted that “the site is regularly visited with a well-defined social trail.” In May of that year, rangers returned to find the nook empty and the pot sitting on the ground a short distance away. “It sure seemed like someone was getting ready to steal it, but then got cold feet,” said Ellen Brennan, an archaeologist who’s spent half of her long career at Grand Canyon National Park and recently wrote a paper about the olla.
Brennan and her colleagues faced a tough choice: Should they pluck this invaluable object from its longtime home, severing its connection to this particular bend in the river and carrying it off to sit in a dark room miles away up on the canyon rim? Or should they leave it in place and risk coming back to find it shattered, or worse, gone?
The case of the wandering olla reflects both the promise and the peril of caring for America’s heritage in the 21st century. In part to honor the wishes of Indigenous communities with ancestral ties to national parks, archaeologists now strive to leave artifacts where they’re found. This is a significant change from |
social trail.” In May of that year, rangers returned to find the nook empty and the pot sitting on the ground a short distance away. “It sure seemed like someone was getting ready to steal it, but then got cold feet,” said Ellen Brennan, an archaeologist who’s spent half of her long career at Grand Canyon National Park and recently wrote a paper about the olla.
Brennan and her colleagues faced a tough choice: Should they pluck this invaluable object from its longtime home, severing its connection to this particular bend in the river and carrying it off to sit in a dark room miles away up on the canyon rim? Or should they leave it in place and risk coming back to find it shattered, or worse, gone?
The case of the wandering olla reflects both the promise and the peril of caring for America’s heritage in the 21st century. In part to honor the wishes of Indigenous communities with ancestral ties to national parks, archaeologists now strive to leave artifacts where they’re found. This is a significant change from the era of indiscriminately collecting Indigenous cultural objects. But with growing park visitation and the widespread use of social media and mapping apps, visitors are ever more likely to stumble upon or seek out objects that have long persisted by dint of their relative obscurity. Meanwhile, the effects of climate change are exposing and damaging artifacts that were once safely buried. All of that means that leaving irreplaceable objects in their original locations also raises the risk of theft or destruction and that Park Service archaeologists are increasingly facing difficult decisions about the cultural resources in their care.
“I’m sure you’ve heard all about the paradox of the parks, right?” asked Josh Torres, the Park Service’s acting chief archaeologist. “We desperately want people to come and enjoy the amazing resources that we’re entrusted to preserve and protect for the American people. But there are times when doing so is almost antithetical to conservation and protection.” Conflicts between t |
the era of indiscriminately collecting Indigenous cultural objects. But with growing park visitation and the widespread use of social media and mapping apps, visitors are ever more likely to stumble upon or seek out objects that have long persisted by dint of their relative obscurity. Meanwhile, the effects of climate change are exposing and damaging artifacts that were once safely buried. All of that means that leaving irreplaceable objects in their original locations also raises the risk of theft or destruction and that Park Service archaeologists are increasingly facing difficult decisions about the cultural resources in their care.
“I’m sure you’ve heard all about the paradox of the parks, right?” asked Josh Torres, the Park Service’s acting chief archaeologist. “We desperately want people to come and enjoy the amazing resources that we’re entrusted to preserve and protect for the American people. But there are times when doing so is almost antithetical to conservation and protection.” Conflicts between the agency’s preservation mandate and its public access goal are nothing new, but it’s up to each new generation of park stewards to renegotiate those competing priorities as attitudes evolve and new threats and challenges arise.
Well into the 20th century, archaeologists in national parks tended to collect whatever artifacts they came across, often without regard for either scientific rigor or the rights of the people whose ancestors created these objects. A Finnish museum, for example, currently houses about 600 Ancestral Puebloan artifacts that an archaeologist removed in the 1890s from what would become Mesa Verde National Park. (In 2020, the museum repatriated the remains of 20 people and 28 funerary objects that had been part of its collection to the Hopi Tribe, the Pueblo of Acoma, the Pueblo of Zia and the Pueblo of Zuni.) Yellowstone National Park’s museum holds over 35,000 archaeological objects collected within the park in the past 150 years. Brennan said the museum at Grand Canyon holds boxes of “r |
he agency’s preservation mandate and its public access goal are nothing new, but it’s up to each new generation of park stewards to renegotiate those competing priorities as attitudes evolve and new threats and challenges arise.
Well into the 20th century, archaeologists in national parks tended to collect whatever artifacts they came across, often without regard for either scientific rigor or the rights of the people whose ancestors created these objects. A Finnish museum, for example, currently houses about 600 Ancestral Puebloan artifacts that an archaeologist removed in the 1890s from what would become Mesa Verde National Park. (In 2020, the museum repatriated the remains of 20 people and 28 funerary objects that had been part of its collection to the Hopi Tribe, the Pueblo of Acoma, the Pueblo of Zia and the Pueblo of Zuni.) Yellowstone National Park’s museum holds over 35,000 archaeological objects collected within the park in the past 150 years. Brennan said the museum at Grand Canyon holds boxes of “random soils, pottery and wood” that archaeologists collected in the 1960s and ’70s but failed to process.
“I liken it to looters or pothunters, who knowingly are stealing archaeological materials that serve no greater purpose than to grace their mantels,” Brennan said. “It doesn’t do anyone any good to collect artifacts without identifying information so they can be studied further into the future and tied back to furthering an understanding of human use and behavior.”
For many Indigenous communities, when archaeological sites are disturbed — whether by archaeologists, bulldozers or looters — much more than scientific data is lost. “The Zunis have a very personal, psychological, emotional connection to these ancestral places, which non-Zunis call archaeological sites,” said Kurt Dongoske. He’s the Tribal historic preservation officer for the Pueblo of Zuni, one of the 11 federally recognized Tribes with ancestral ties to Grand Canyon. “From a Zuni perspective, the ancestors that are residing in their eternal |
andom soils, pottery and wood” that archaeologists collected in the 1960s and ’70s but failed to process.
“I liken it to looters or pothunters, who knowingly are stealing archaeological materials that serve no greater purpose than to grace their mantels,” Brennan said. “It doesn’t do anyone any good to collect artifacts without identifying information so they can be studied further into the future and tied back to furthering an understanding of human use and behavior.”
For many Indigenous communities, when archaeological sites are disturbed — whether by archaeologists, bulldozers or looters — much more than scientific data is lost. “The Zunis have a very personal, psychological, emotional connection to these ancestral places, which non-Zunis call archaeological sites,” said Kurt Dongoske. He’s the Tribal historic preservation officer for the Pueblo of Zuni, one of the 11 federally recognized Tribes with ancestral ties to Grand Canyon. “From a Zuni perspective, the ancestors that are residing in their eternal homes in these sites are still very much a live presence in spiritual form.” The removal of artifacts for archaeological research has severed vital connections to their ancestors, Dongoske said.
Preserving and restoring access to sacred sites and artifacts has been a priority for Indigenous activists and elders who’ve fought for Tribal sovereignty and self-determination since the American Indian Movement of the 1960s and ’70s. As a result, laws such as 1979’s Archaeological Resources Protection Act and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 require federal agencies to formally consult Tribal governments and other descendant groups before excavating a site.
As archaeologists established working relationships with Tribal leaders, they began to realize that many of the answers they were seeking had been there all along. This shift in perspective made it harder for archaeologists in national parks to justify collecting objects in the name of research. “Certain descendant groups say, ‘T |
homes in these sites are still very much a live presence in spiritual form.” The removal of artifacts for archaeological research has severed vital connections to their ancestors, Dongoske said.
Preserving and restoring access to sacred sites and artifacts has been a priority for Indigenous activists and elders who’ve fought for Tribal sovereignty and self-determination since the American Indian Movement of the 1960s and ’70s. As a result, laws such as 1979’s Archaeological Resources Protection Act and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 require federal agencies to formally consult Tribal governments and other descendant groups before excavating a site.
As archaeologists established working relationships with Tribal leaders, they began to realize that many of the answers they were seeking had been there all along. This shift in perspective made it harder for archaeologists in national parks to justify collecting objects in the name of research. “Certain descendant groups say, ‘There’s literally no question you could ask about that artifact that I couldn’t just tell you the answer to, so just leave it alone,’” said Elizabeth Hora, an archaeologist at the Utah State Historic Preservation Office, which consults with the Park Service on archaeological research in the state’s national park sites.
It goes without saying that you shouldn’t pocket artifacts, light a campfire in an archaeological site or scratch your name in a petroglyph panel. But is it OK to check out a secret spot you read about online? As smartphones have made it easier to collect and share information about sites off the beaten path, archaeologists say each visitor’s calculus matters more than ever. “If you see something on social media, and the park hasn’t built a trail to it, there’s probably a reason for that,” Josh Torres said. “It behooves all of us as stewards of our parks to not go out and try to find it.”
If you do stumble across an artifact, the Park Service implores you not to post about it online. And while r |
here’s literally no question you could ask about that artifact that I couldn’t just tell you the answer to, so just leave it alone,’” said Elizabeth Hora, an archaeologist at the Utah State Historic Preservation Office, which consults with the Park Service on archaeological research in the state’s national park sites.
It goes without saying that you shouldn’t pocket artifacts, light a campfire in an archaeological site or scratch your name in a petroglyph panel. But is it OK to check out a secret spot you read about online? As smartphones have made it easier to collect and share information about sites off the beaten path, archaeologists say each visitor’s calculus matters more than ever. “If you see something on social media, and the park hasn’t built a trail to it, there’s probably a reason for that,” Josh Torres said. “It behooves all of us as stewards of our parks to not go out and try to find it.”
If you do stumble across an artifact, the Park Service implores you not to post about it online. And while relic hunting forums and Instagram influencers are obvious targets of archaeologists’ anxiety, they’re not counting out the risks of good old-fashioned word of mouth. “You might just share something with your small group of friends, and they’re all good people,” said Ian Wright, cultural site stewardship coordinator for the Utah State Historic Preservation Office. “Then each of them shares it with their small group of friends, and they’re all good people. Even if nobody’s doing anything bad, that’s still a lot of people tromping around out there.”
Photo ©RINUS BAAK/DREAMSTIME
“Going across the landscape and collecting materials is a thing of the past” for park archaeologists, Brennan said. Instead of relocating objects to controlled storage, park staff are now figuring out how to preserve artifacts where they’re found, but that’s not always possible.
“There are lots of instances where we do collect material if it looks like those resources will be lost or stolen,” said Torres. “We have an obligation to mitigat |
elic hunting forums and Instagram influencers are obvious targets of archaeologists’ anxiety, they’re not counting out the risks of good old-fashioned word of mouth. “You might just share something with your small group of friends, and they’re all good people,” said Ian Wright, cultural site stewardship coordinator for the Utah State Historic Preservation Office. “Then each of them shares it with their small group of friends, and they’re all good people. Even if nobody’s doing anything bad, that’s still a lot of people tromping around out there.”
Photo ©RINUS BAAK/DREAMSTIME
“Going across the landscape and collecting materials is a thing of the past” for park archaeologists, Brennan said. Instead of relocating objects to controlled storage, park staff are now figuring out how to preserve artifacts where they’re found, but that’s not always possible.
“There are lots of instances where we do collect material if it looks like those resources will be lost or stolen,” said Torres. “We have an obligation to mitigate those adverse effects to those resources however we can.” These days, Park Service policy dictates that whenever park managers need to make a call about artifacts or sites that are at risk, they discuss options with the descendant communities of the people who created them. “In some instances, the management actions necessary to preserve or protect a particular site from destruction or a federal project may be counter to wishes of the Tribes,” Torres acknowledged. “But that’s the whole purpose of the consultation process: to try and work out amenable solutions.”
And as more material traces of the continent’s human past disappear under rising seas, wash away in freak storms, burn up in raging wildfires and melt out of waning ice patches, these sorts of decisions will only become more common. After unusually heavy rains in 2013, rangers at Arizona’s Wupatki National Monument noticed that a partially exposed structure built out of sandstone slabs on a hillside had started to erode. They spotted three clay vess |
e those adverse effects to those resources however we can.” These days, Park Service policy dictates that whenever park managers need to make a call about artifacts or sites that are at risk, they discuss options with the descendant communities of the people who created them. “In some instances, the management actions necessary to preserve or protect a particular site from destruction or a federal project may be counter to wishes of the Tribes,” Torres acknowledged. “But that’s the whole purpose of the consultation process: to try and work out amenable solutions.”
And as more material traces of the continent’s human past disappear under rising seas, wash away in freak storms, burn up in raging wildfires and melt out of waning ice patches, these sorts of decisions will only become more common. After unusually heavy rains in 2013, rangers at Arizona’s Wupatki National Monument noticed that a partially exposed structure built out of sandstone slabs on a hillside had started to erode. They spotted three clay vessels, exposed to the elements and teetering in a newly formed gully. Park staff couldn’t figure how to stabilize the slope, so in concert with Tribes associated with the park and Arizona’s State Historic Preservation Office, they decided to excavate the whole structure. All told, they found seven intact pots dating to the 12th century.
It’s rare to find one intact pot in the field, let alone seven, said Gwenn Gallenstein, museum curator for the three national monuments near Flagstaff including Wupatki. “It caused quite a bit of excitement in the community.” Friends of Flagstaff National Monuments drummed up some funding for a new visitor center display, which would feature the vessels and other objects as part of a story about how climate change is accelerating threats to the park’s archaeological resources.
But in consultation for the exhibit with a group of Hopi elders, Gallenstein learned that the site had most likely been a shrine that could have been created to contain something harmful, like an illness. |
els, exposed to the elements and teetering in a newly formed gully. Park staff couldn’t figure how to stabilize the slope, so in concert with Tribes associated with the park and Arizona’s State Historic Preservation Office, they decided to excavate the whole structure. All told, they found seven intact pots dating to the 12th century.
It’s rare to find one intact pot in the field, let alone seven, said Gwenn Gallenstein, museum curator for the three national monuments near Flagstaff including Wupatki. “It caused quite a bit of excitement in the community.” Friends of Flagstaff National Monuments drummed up some funding for a new visitor center display, which would feature the vessels and other objects as part of a story about how climate change is accelerating threats to the park’s archaeological resources.
But in consultation for the exhibit with a group of Hopi elders, Gallenstein learned that the site had most likely been a shrine that could have been created to contain something harmful, like an illness. The elders explained that “its contents shouldn’t be utilized for any purpose, handled by any person or kept in storage for research,” Gallenstein recalled. It would have been better, the elders told her, if park staff had left the pots to erode away, but federal regulations mandate that archaeological objects recovered from federal land be preserved, meaning Gallenstein couldn’t just return the pots to the gully where they’d soon be smashed to bits. So the Hopi elders and the park’s superintendent struck a compromise. A few weeks later, park archaeologists dug a pit in a stable area near the site and reburied the shrine’s contents.
Back at Grand Canyon, Brennan and her colleagues also sought a solution somewhere between accessioning the olla into the park’s permanent collection and leaving it in its increasingly perilous home. Tribal representatives had told Brennan that they wanted the pot to stay in the canyon — unless it seemed the object was in danger. “Once someone took it out of the site context, we kn |
The elders explained that “its contents shouldn’t be utilized for any purpose, handled by any person or kept in storage for research,” Gallenstein recalled. It would have been better, the elders told her, if park staff had left the pots to erode away, but federal regulations mandate that archaeological objects recovered from federal land be preserved, meaning Gallenstein couldn’t just return the pots to the gully where they’d soon be smashed to bits. So the Hopi elders and the park’s superintendent struck a compromise. A few weeks later, park archaeologists dug a pit in a stable area near the site and reburied the shrine’s contents.
Back at Grand Canyon, Brennan and her colleagues also sought a solution somewhere between accessioning the olla into the park’s permanent collection and leaving it in its increasingly perilous home. Tribal representatives had told Brennan that they wanted the pot to stay in the canyon — unless it seemed the object was in danger. “Once someone took it out of the site context, we knew at that point we had to remove it,” she said.
You can read this and other stories about history, nature, culture, art, conservation, travel, science and more in National Parks magazine. Your tax-deductible membership donation of $25 or more entitles…See more ›
So with a go-ahead from the Tribes, park staff orchestrated a rescue mission involving cotton gloves, bubble wrap, a sturdy metal box and a 166-mile river journey through dozens of major rapids. (“Intact vessels are so fragile and so rare. You don’t want to be the one that breaks it,” Brennan said. “So yeah, it’s nerve-wracking.”) The olla arrived at the park’s museum undamaged. In the past, the park’s archaeologists might have proceeded to zap the pot with an X-ray machine, swab its surface for traces of ancient pollen or put it on display in the visitor center, but Brennan and her colleagues made a different plan. “It wasn’t just that I want to protect the object from theft,” she said. “I was also thinking about how the Tribes think about these sit |
ew at that point we had to remove it,” she said.
You can read this and other stories about history, nature, culture, art, conservation, travel, science and more in National Parks magazine. Your tax-deductible membership donation of $25 or more entitles…See more ›
So with a go-ahead from the Tribes, park staff orchestrated a rescue mission involving cotton gloves, bubble wrap, a sturdy metal box and a 166-mile river journey through dozens of major rapids. (“Intact vessels are so fragile and so rare. You don’t want to be the one that breaks it,” Brennan said. “So yeah, it’s nerve-wracking.”) The olla arrived at the park’s museum undamaged. In the past, the park’s archaeologists might have proceeded to zap the pot with an X-ray machine, swab its surface for traces of ancient pollen or put it on display in the visitor center, but Brennan and her colleagues made a different plan. “It wasn’t just that I want to protect the object from theft,” she said. “I was also thinking about how the Tribes think about these sites as still-living entities.” So she hopes that someday the pot can be returned to its riverside home. “In the meantime, we haven’t done anything with it,” she said. “It’s just been sitting, waiting quietly for us to put it back.”
About the author
Julia Busiek Author
Julia Busiek has worked in national parks in California, Colorado, Hawaii and Washington state. She lives in Oakland, California. |
es as still-living entities.” So she hopes that someday the pot can be returned to its riverside home. “In the meantime, we haven’t done anything with it,” she said. “It’s just been sitting, waiting quietly for us to put it back.”
About the author
Julia Busiek Author
Julia Busiek has worked in national parks in California, Colorado, Hawaii and Washington state. She lives in Oakland, California. |
What is a “national monument” established by the President?
A “national monument” established by the President protects “objects of historic or scientific interest that are situated on lands owned or controlled by the Federal Government” (54 U.S.C. § 320301, known as the Antiquities Act). If the national monument is administered by the National Park Service (NPS), as many national monuments are, it is subject to the same laws and policies as govern other units of the National Park System. Thus, an NPS national monument established by the President is a protected area similar to a national park, administered for the protection and enjoyment of its resources and values.
How does an area become a national monument?
To be established by the President, the area must meet the criteria of the Antiquities Act (54 U.S.C § 320301), including having objects of historic or scientific interest located on land already owned or controlled by the Federal government. The views of the public are carefully considered in the process. National monuments can also be created by Congress under their own enabling statutes, rather than the Antiquities Act. National monuments can be administered by Federal agencies other than NPS. The Presidential proclamation or Congressionally-enacted statute creating the national monument typically indicates which Federal agency will administer it.
What constitutes Camp Nelson National Monument?
Camp Nelson National Monument protects and interprets three discontiguous locations in Jessamine County, consisting of approximately 380-acres of the core historic Civil War-era Camp Nelson site, roughly 20 miles southwest of Lexington, Kentucky. These locations include the main encampment area and sites associated with the Home for Colored Refugees.
Many Union supply depots were situated in or near large urban areas such as Louisville, Chattanooga, New Orleans, and Chicago, and their associated landscape and remaining archeological resources have been destroyed by post-Civil War development. Because of its rura |
cess. National monuments can also be created by Congress under their own enabling statutes, rather than the Antiquities Act. National monuments can be administered by Federal agencies other than NPS. The Presidential proclamation or Congressionally-enacted statute creating the national monument typically indicates which Federal agency will administer it.
What constitutes Camp Nelson National Monument?
Camp Nelson National Monument protects and interprets three discontiguous locations in Jessamine County, consisting of approximately 380-acres of the core historic Civil War-era Camp Nelson site, roughly 20 miles southwest of Lexington, Kentucky. These locations include the main encampment area and sites associated with the Home for Colored Refugees.
Many Union supply depots were situated in or near large urban areas such as Louisville, Chattanooga, New Orleans, and Chicago, and their associated landscape and remaining archeological resources have been destroyed by post-Civil War development. Because of its rural location and grass roots preservation efforts within Jessamine County, Camp Nelson is considered one of the best-preserved Civil War-era depots, hospitals, recruiting centers, and refugee camp sites in the nation.
The national monument is comprised of pastures, open fields, and wood lots similar to the site’s pre- and post-war appearance. Camp Nelson’s well-preserved landscape includes numerous features from the Civil War era; they include earthen fortifications, entrenchments, building foundations, historic road remnants, and springs. The Oliver Perry House/“White House” is the only surviving extant structure associated with Camp Nelson’s Civil War history. This 1855 Greek Revival house was commandeered by the Union army for use as the Quartermaster and Commissary officers’ quarters and eventually returned to the Perry family after the war.
Operated in partnership with Jessamine County, a visitor center featuring museum exhibits on the history of Camp Nelson as well as a reconstructed army barracks buildin |
l location and grass roots preservation efforts within Jessamine County, Camp Nelson is considered one of the best-preserved Civil War-era depots, hospitals, recruiting centers, and refugee camp sites in the nation.
The national monument is comprised of pastures, open fields, and wood lots similar to the site’s pre- and post-war appearance. Camp Nelson’s well-preserved landscape includes numerous features from the Civil War era; they include earthen fortifications, entrenchments, building foundations, historic road remnants, and springs. The Oliver Perry House/“White House” is the only surviving extant structure associated with Camp Nelson’s Civil War history. This 1855 Greek Revival house was commandeered by the Union army for use as the Quartermaster and Commissary officers’ quarters and eventually returned to the Perry family after the war.
Operated in partnership with Jessamine County, a visitor center featuring museum exhibits on the history of Camp Nelson as well as a reconstructed army barracks building are located within the National Monument. The Camp Nelson National Monument is also recognized as an official site on the NPS National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
Today, the site of Camp Nelson remains one of the best preserved landscapes and archeological sites associated with Civil War-era U.S. Colored Troops recruitment camps and the African American refugee experience. The site speaks to the stories of transformation from enslavement to citizenship and of the extraordinary endurance and courage of the individuals who reshaped their own lives and the course of our nation.
What happens now that the area has been designated a national monument?
The National Park Service is beginning to work on the development of a management plan, to ensure that the new national monument preserves the site’s resources and provides for an outstanding visitor experience. The National Park Service’s planning for the new park will be done with full public involvement and in coordination with Jessamine County, Kent |
g are located within the National Monument. The Camp Nelson National Monument is also recognized as an official site on the NPS National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
Today, the site of Camp Nelson remains one of the best preserved landscapes and archeological sites associated with Civil War-era U.S. Colored Troops recruitment camps and the African American refugee experience. The site speaks to the stories of transformation from enslavement to citizenship and of the extraordinary endurance and courage of the individuals who reshaped their own lives and the course of our nation.
What happens now that the area has been designated a national monument?
The National Park Service is beginning to work on the development of a management plan, to ensure that the new national monument preserves the site’s resources and provides for an outstanding visitor experience. The National Park Service’s planning for the new park will be done with full public involvement and in coordination with Jessamine County, Kentucky and other stakeholders. Open houses and public meetings will be held to discuss the management plan and invite the public to share ideas for the future of the monument.
Last updated: December 16, 2019 |
ucky and other stakeholders. Open houses and public meetings will be held to discuss the management plan and invite the public to share ideas for the future of the monument.
Last updated: December 16, 2019 |
Oakridgers takes up on MIT extreme weather challenges with Nord Anglia Education
- 6 May 2022
The world is witnessing hotter days and heatwaves with each passing year since 1950. We will see more changes in weather extremes by end of the 21st century if we don’t act now. It begins with educating children to fight the crisis. As part of Nord Anglia Education, the world’s leading premium school organization, students at Oakridge International School Bachupally get an opportunity to work with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to find the problem–solving ideas.
Nord Anglia Education with MIT brings in a new age of challenges for its students all over the globe every year. Overall, 620 students participated in all STEAM-based activities, of different genres. A total of 270 students participated in the MIT challenges on Earth, this academic year focuses on extreme weather. “Global campus MIT gave me a lot of opportunities to learn, develop skills, and be innovative and creative in science and technology. I’m always excited to log onto the global campus and learn something new every day, like learning about weather from the videos of Dr. Kerry Emmauel, Dr. Caroline Ummenhofer, and Dr. Kristen Bergmann, the climate scientists in the extreme weather challenges gave us many interesting insights”, says Jiya, a grade 6 student from Oakridge Bachupally. |
I have been requested to talk about what is real and what is not. After some hesitations here are few thoughts.
When asked to define reality and non-reality the Buddha replied in many ways often contradicting himself. Maybe his contradictions had a purpose since he did not like metaphysical or philosophical stuff, preferring being down to earth. For example he would rather answer the following: What are the causes of suffering and how to prevent them? Regarding what is reality and not, he replied the following:
“If you think, nothing is real because our thoughts are immaterial”
Another day he would teach this: “Everything is real when I am using my 5 senses.”
Or in modern English he also said: “I don’t know the difference, what is the point of your question?”
So, this is a difficult topic to talk about and I am not sure about its practical value in making your life easier, better and more serene. However this is a good challenge for discussion.
The first step is to try to define and differentiate 2 key words that seem somewhat similar: To exist and to be real. Is there a difference between them?
By definition, nothing exists per se if not present in the present moment.
Its antonym is immaterial, virtual.
This distinction is very important and should help somewhat in the following second step.
Let us use 2 practical examples to differentiate the 2 words
If I pinch my skin I am aware of it because my skin does exist in the current moment and is real because my skin is material with a proven concrete reality. In fact, by using our 5 senses one can confirm that something exists – that is now- and is real or not.
2) B exists; does it mean that B is real? The answer is NO in the following example.
You have a thought. Does this thought exist? Yes of course, because this thought is present in the current moment. But your thought, whatever true or not, is not real because it does not have any material reality.
The distinction between ”what is existing” and “what is real,” sounds purely academic and useless. However its im |
that seem somewhat similar: To exist and to be real. Is there a difference between them?
By definition, nothing exists per se if not present in the present moment.
Its antonym is immaterial, virtual.
This distinction is very important and should help somewhat in the following second step.
Let us use 2 practical examples to differentiate the 2 words
If I pinch my skin I am aware of it because my skin does exist in the current moment and is real because my skin is material with a proven concrete reality. In fact, by using our 5 senses one can confirm that something exists – that is now- and is real or not.
2) B exists; does it mean that B is real? The answer is NO in the following example.
You have a thought. Does this thought exist? Yes of course, because this thought is present in the current moment. But your thought, whatever true or not, is not real because it does not have any material reality.
The distinction between ”what is existing” and “what is real,” sounds purely academic and useless. However its importance is crucial because, by definition, our mind’s world does exist but are immaterial. Our perception, thought, emotion, belief, desire, expectations, memory do exist and maybe true or not but they are not real since lacking concrete reality. So, everything created by our mind 1) does exist if perceived in the current moment, 2) maybe true or not, 3) but is not real per se since being immaterial.
Zen says: “Don’t believe in all your thoughts, just observe them since, despite existing, they are not real”.
In summary and using a very pragmatic and simple approach:
Something exists only in the current moment. It may or may not be real that is with a concrete reality.
Something that is real - material - must exist because of the verb to be is in its present form “IS real” that is now.
An existing state can be real or virtual. A real state always exists
Being aware of what is real and of what is not such as our perceptions, thoughts, beliefs, and emotions is a giant step in discovering your dormant awakening. |
portance is crucial because, by definition, our mind’s world does exist but are immaterial. Our perception, thought, emotion, belief, desire, expectations, memory do exist and maybe true or not but they are not real since lacking concrete reality. So, everything created by our mind 1) does exist if perceived in the current moment, 2) maybe true or not, 3) but is not real per se since being immaterial.
Zen says: “Don’t believe in all your thoughts, just observe them since, despite existing, they are not real”.
In summary and using a very pragmatic and simple approach:
Something exists only in the current moment. It may or may not be real that is with a concrete reality.
Something that is real - material - must exist because of the verb to be is in its present form “IS real” that is now.
An existing state can be real or virtual. A real state always exists
Being aware of what is real and of what is not such as our perceptions, thoughts, beliefs, and emotions is a giant step in discovering your dormant awakening.
For your reflections: |
For your reflections: |
The critically endangered black bearded saki is endemic to a small region of the far eastern Amazon rainforests in Brazil, primarily in the Maranhão Babaçu Forests ecoregion. The black bearded saki is known for using its hands for scooping up drinking water, a method that is believed to help with pruning their large beards. At certain times of the year 90% of this primate species’ diet consists of immature seeds.
The black bearded saki has reportedly coped with fragmentation of its habitat by consuming more flowers and non-reproductive plant parts, ingeniously allowing the plants to recover and not depleting their scarce resources. Unfortunately, their population is still decreasing and more intensive conservation actions are needed.
The Maranhão Babaçu Forests are located in eastern Brazil at the very eastern and southern flank of the Amazon Basin. This region comprises a transition zone between the moist evergreen forests of the Amazon Basin and the drier woodlands and scrub savannas of Brazil’s central plateau. The terrain is flat to gently rolling and is dissected by many rivers that drain into the Atlantic Ocean. Elevations inland reach 150 m and drop toward the coast. Annual rainfall ranges from 1,000–1,500 mm, mostly falling during a 6-month period every year; then the region goes through 5–6 months of drought. Annual temperature ranges from 25°–28°C. The bottomland soils are rich from river deposits of different materials.
The most striking features of the region are the extensive high-density stands of the economically important oil palm babassu. While the palm is native to the ecoregion, human activities in primary forests including burning and deforestation, from which this species is adapted to recover quickly, have assisted its spread to become the predominant vegetation. Abundant trees of primary forest include yellow mombin, membrillo, suradan, and Protium heptaphyllum (used for incense).
This ecoregion originally supported a collection of rare endemic birds, fishes, and insects. Habitat degradatio |
teau. The terrain is flat to gently rolling and is dissected by many rivers that drain into the Atlantic Ocean. Elevations inland reach 150 m and drop toward the coast. Annual rainfall ranges from 1,000–1,500 mm, mostly falling during a 6-month period every year; then the region goes through 5–6 months of drought. Annual temperature ranges from 25°–28°C. The bottomland soils are rich from river deposits of different materials.
The most striking features of the region are the extensive high-density stands of the economically important oil palm babassu. While the palm is native to the ecoregion, human activities in primary forests including burning and deforestation, from which this species is adapted to recover quickly, have assisted its spread to become the predominant vegetation. Abundant trees of primary forest include yellow mombin, membrillo, suradan, and Protium heptaphyllum (used for incense).
This ecoregion originally supported a collection of rare endemic birds, fishes, and insects. Habitat degradation of the area has caused reduced the biodiversity. There are still 112 mammals recorded such as the lowland paca, agouti, Brazilian porcupine, spiny rats, and hog-nosed skunks. Around 268 bird species have been recorded as well.
About half of this ecoregion is covered by secondary forest and degraded pasture. No large protected areas exist here. Severe deforestation during the past 70 years has eliminated most of the original moist forest, and only remnant patches remain. The babassu palm continues to proliferate on deforested sites, which are in great supply as human activities such as agriculture and ranching require cleared land.
The remnants of natural savanna and forest vegetation are threatened by strong demand for land for large-scale intensive production operations, such as cattle-ranching and sugar cane plantation. Introduced grasses for pasture such as Hyparrhenia rufa compete with native savanna species. All these factors increase the stress on the original moist forest habitat and lead to further |
n of the area has caused reduced the biodiversity. There are still 112 mammals recorded such as the lowland paca, agouti, Brazilian porcupine, spiny rats, and hog-nosed skunks. Around 268 bird species have been recorded as well.
About half of this ecoregion is covered by secondary forest and degraded pasture. No large protected areas exist here. Severe deforestation during the past 70 years has eliminated most of the original moist forest, and only remnant patches remain. The babassu palm continues to proliferate on deforested sites, which are in great supply as human activities such as agriculture and ranching require cleared land.
The remnants of natural savanna and forest vegetation are threatened by strong demand for land for large-scale intensive production operations, such as cattle-ranching and sugar cane plantation. Introduced grasses for pasture such as Hyparrhenia rufa compete with native savanna species. All these factors increase the stress on the original moist forest habitat and lead to further fragmentation of the ecosystem.
The priority conservation actions for the next decade are to: 1) introduce more natural resource based, sustainable cattle ranching and agriculture practices; 2) promote restoration of degraded areas; and 3) create protected areas within the remaining fragments of moist forests.
1. Sears, R. 2018. Eastern and Southern flank of the Amazon basin in Brazil. https://www.worldwildlife.org/ecoregions/nt0139 Accessed November 17, 2018.
2. Anderson, A. B., P. H. May, and M. J. Balick. 1991. The Subsidy from Nature: Palm forests, peasantry, and development on an Amazon frontier. Columbia University Press, New York.
3. Anderson, A. B. 1983. People and the Palm Forest: Biology and utilization of babassu palms in Maranhão, Brazil. Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC.
4. Veiga, L.M., Silva Jr., J.S., Ferrari, S.F. & Rylands, A.B. 2008. Chiropotes satanas. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2008: e.T39956A10297662. http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2008.RLTS.T |
fragmentation of the ecosystem.
The priority conservation actions for the next decade are to: 1) introduce more natural resource based, sustainable cattle ranching and agriculture practices; 2) promote restoration of degraded areas; and 3) create protected areas within the remaining fragments of moist forests.
1. Sears, R. 2018. Eastern and Southern flank of the Amazon basin in Brazil. https://www.worldwildlife.org/ecoregions/nt0139 Accessed November 17, 2018.
2. Anderson, A. B., P. H. May, and M. J. Balick. 1991. The Subsidy from Nature: Palm forests, peasantry, and development on an Amazon frontier. Columbia University Press, New York.
3. Anderson, A. B. 1983. People and the Palm Forest: Biology and utilization of babassu palms in Maranhão, Brazil. Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC.
4. Veiga, L.M., Silva Jr., J.S., Ferrari, S.F. & Rylands, A.B. 2008. Chiropotes satanas. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2008: e.T39956A10297662. http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2008.RLTS.T39956A10297662.en. Accessed November 17, 2018. |
39956A10297662.en. Accessed November 17, 2018. |
White Clover Seeds 6735. Open Pollinated. Perennial.
Robust, adaptive, drought resistant legume that is also somewhat shade tolerant. White clover is often seeded into established lawns or in areas where turf grasses tend to struggle. This variety is not naturally recumbent. Requires regular mowing to keep at 7.5-10 cm (3-4″) in height. A superb plant for sowing into rough or non-maintained and low maintenance areas, for land stabilization projects and as honey bee fodder. Also an excellent choice for use as a green manure. Legumes capture atmospheric nitrogen and fix it to their roots making this very valuable nutrient available for other plants to use. Perennial hardy to Zone 4.
How to Grow
The best time to sow white clover is early April through mid-May. Late summer sowing should only be done a minimum of 6 weeks before freezing to ensure the root structure is large enough to properly establish before winter. Dormant late fall sowing is done just prior to the ground freezing. Sow 250 g (1/2 lb) per 90 sq. m. (1000 sq. ft.). For larger areas, sow at 9 kg per hectare (8 lb per acre). Avoid using nitrogen based fertilizer where white clover is present. |
Despite a gap of nearly two thousand years, Boudica remains at the forefront of the public imagination. Her story has been passed down the generations from the original writings of the Romans and she has been continually reinvented to serve as a woman of many times from Elizabeth 1st to Margaret Thatcher.
Set against beautiful watercolours of Norfolk, (Using found objects from Norwich Castle Museum and the banks of the River Thames, to create collage animation and characters). Emma Calder’s film looks at Boudica the woman, what motivated her to keep her freedom and what her story means to us now, that we know so much more about her and her people from very recent archaeology. The film shows Boudica and the Iceni tribe and their rebellion against the Romans in first century Britain. The film contrasts the worlds of the indigenous Iceni people and their Roman Invaders.
Boudica A Norfolk Story, contains all the key ideas from this most interesting period in British history whilst being attractive, playful and engaging for all ages.
Conceived, animated and directed by EMMA CALDER. Produced by Pearly Oyster Productions 2013 © Pearly Oyster Productions. Format digital, Colour, length 5 mins 32 secs.
A Pearly Oyster production commissioned by Norfolk Museums and Archaeology Service and supported by the Arts Council of England. |
Here are all the minor scales and their key signatures. They are
written first as a natural minor scale and second as a harmonic minor
The minor scales with sharps in their key signatures are first. Keys with flats are second.
Here are the minor scales with flats in their key signatures.
Need to check out any more scales? Go to the main
piano scales page for major scales, pentatonic scales, scale modes and information about what makes up a scale.
Return from Minor Scales to Piano Lessons Info Homepage. |
When we are sick or injured we know exactly what we want. We want to feel good again, to not be sick; we want to get better, to be healthy. But what does that mean to be healthy?
Good health is a result of what we eat, what we think, how we express emotions, what we feel, what we do and how we live. Our thoughts, actions, and choices make incremental changes in our way of life, dictating our current outlook and health.
Making healthy choices is an ongoing process that leads to good health or poor health. We can start off with big goals, of exercising, eating right, getting our health back on track. We get up, do a spiritual contemplation, work out, have a shake and then we are off to work. When that becomes a routine, it can work really well. We can get used to feeling well rested, and having the right thoughts, and starting the day out fresh.
If something happens that we are not quite prepared for, our goals can go out the window. If we don’t pay attention, our habits get side-tracked by our thoughts, food choices, environment, and the company we keep. We give ourselves a break; we compensate, perhaps we have a negative thought for that unfortunate event, or think we deserve a treat that isn’t in our body’s best interest because it was a stressful day. We feel sorry for ourselves and reward ourselves in ways that feel good for the moment, but may not be good for us in the long run. We skip our good habits and fall into a rut that may not be working for us.
It’s like the person who wants to drown their sorrows in drink at the end of a stressful day who either doesn’t know or care how they will feel in the morning. Everything has consequences. Sometimes we just can’t see the connection of how are actions are influencing our present. In this case it is our health.
We have to begin anew to build the good health habits. Our bodies are our big life experiment. We have over three trillion cells, and more bacteria than we can count. We choose what to allow our body to experience by what we feed it, the kind of water we |
hoices, environment, and the company we keep. We give ourselves a break; we compensate, perhaps we have a negative thought for that unfortunate event, or think we deserve a treat that isn’t in our body’s best interest because it was a stressful day. We feel sorry for ourselves and reward ourselves in ways that feel good for the moment, but may not be good for us in the long run. We skip our good habits and fall into a rut that may not be working for us.
It’s like the person who wants to drown their sorrows in drink at the end of a stressful day who either doesn’t know or care how they will feel in the morning. Everything has consequences. Sometimes we just can’t see the connection of how are actions are influencing our present. In this case it is our health.
We have to begin anew to build the good health habits. Our bodies are our big life experiment. We have over three trillion cells, and more bacteria than we can count. We choose what to allow our body to experience by what we feed it, the kind of water we drink, how hard we work the body, what we think about, and the environment where we live. Our thoughts are affected by our emotions and we generate feelings from those emotions. We cannot always choose what life brings to us, but we can choose how we respond to our life.
When we choose to follow a plan to good health, it leads to new choices, habits, and thoughts that change to accommodate this new lifestyle of good health. You might notice you feel better from the increased flexibility or home made food you are eating, or you don’t have as many headaches, dark moods, or aches and pains. You find new thoughts and new ideas come your way. New ways of being rewarded reinforce the new healthy habits.
It takes cells about 120 days to reproduce and copy over their new blueprint of being well. That way all the cells have the healthy blueprint, and not just some of them. Because it takes so long, it is best to stick to a program of taking a supplement, protocol, or herbal for about 3-4 months, if you are trying to u |
drink, how hard we work the body, what we think about, and the environment where we live. Our thoughts are affected by our emotions and we generate feelings from those emotions. We cannot always choose what life brings to us, but we can choose how we respond to our life.
When we choose to follow a plan to good health, it leads to new choices, habits, and thoughts that change to accommodate this new lifestyle of good health. You might notice you feel better from the increased flexibility or home made food you are eating, or you don’t have as many headaches, dark moods, or aches and pains. You find new thoughts and new ideas come your way. New ways of being rewarded reinforce the new healthy habits.
It takes cells about 120 days to reproduce and copy over their new blueprint of being well. That way all the cells have the healthy blueprint, and not just some of them. Because it takes so long, it is best to stick to a program of taking a supplement, protocol, or herbal for about 3-4 months, if you are trying to uproot it. For someone who can ask the body, you can check to see what the body wants.
Do we ever get there? Do we get where we have good health and now we can stop? Since life is an increasing collection of our thoughts and understandings, we find ways to keep improving, to continue growing. There is always another step to take, to learn, to help others. That is the part of us that is creative, or divine.
Good health is the process; it is taking the steps to becoming who we truly are. |
proot it. For someone who can ask the body, you can check to see what the body wants.
Do we ever get there? Do we get where we have good health and now we can stop? Since life is an increasing collection of our thoughts and understandings, we find ways to keep improving, to continue growing. There is always another step to take, to learn, to help others. That is the part of us that is creative, or divine.
Good health is the process; it is taking the steps to becoming who we truly are. |
Q: The fruit on my Nagami kumquat this year is variable and somewhat bland. Larger fruit have little to no acidity and can even be mealy, while smaller fruit are closer in tartness to previous years. Is this a result of weather?
A: Exposure to freezing temperatures can cause icky, mealy citrus fruit. Kumquats are relatively cold tolerant (for a citrus), but if the fruit is exposed to freezing temperatures, the skin can crack and leave you with a dry, mealy, bland crop. The larger fruit contain more water, so they are more likely to crack and dry out.
Keep in mind that these cracks may not be visible when you harvest the fruit, but they are still enough to ruin your crop.
Q: I have a mature dwarf tangerine tree in my backyard. It has flourished and produced very well over the last 20 years or so. Now, it is not doing so well. Leaves are fading in color from green to yellow and are dropping. The bark on the trunk is wrinkling and pieces are falling off. It gets plenty of water and sunshine. Also, it seems to be a home for a great number of ants. What is going on and is there hope?
A: Your tangerine may be suffering from any number of maladies. The presence of ants indicates the presence of either aphids or scale insects. Usually these are minor nuisance insects, but in great numbers they can weaken a tree. The peeling bark could be caused by insects, irregular watering, sun/wind damage or exocortis (an uncommon viral disease).
I recommend applying fertilizer especially formulated for citrus. Yellowing leaves are a common symptom of nutrient deficiency (especially nitrogen). Citrus trees require regular feeding, so this is a good place to start.
If you suspect sun damage (this is likely if the damage is on the south or west facing side), paint the trunk with white latex paint that has been diluted 1:1 with water.
Q: When is the best time to prune a grapefruit tree?
A: Most citrus does not require extensive pruning. At any time you can remove dead branches, water sprouts (long, nonproductive, extremely vigorous branc |
a home for a great number of ants. What is going on and is there hope?
A: Your tangerine may be suffering from any number of maladies. The presence of ants indicates the presence of either aphids or scale insects. Usually these are minor nuisance insects, but in great numbers they can weaken a tree. The peeling bark could be caused by insects, irregular watering, sun/wind damage or exocortis (an uncommon viral disease).
I recommend applying fertilizer especially formulated for citrus. Yellowing leaves are a common symptom of nutrient deficiency (especially nitrogen). Citrus trees require regular feeding, so this is a good place to start.
If you suspect sun damage (this is likely if the damage is on the south or west facing side), paint the trunk with white latex paint that has been diluted 1:1 with water.
Q: When is the best time to prune a grapefruit tree?
A: Most citrus does not require extensive pruning. At any time you can remove dead branches, water sprouts (long, nonproductive, extremely vigorous branches that grow straight up) and branches that are rubbing together.
If you want to prune to keep the tree’s height under control, do so either right before it blooms or after fruit set. Pruning encourages new growth, which is susceptible to frost damage, so avoid doing it late in the year. Lower branches can be pruned to improve access to fruit.
Q: After the rain, I found all these mounds in the ground. Do you have any idea what they are?
A: Your photo shows a bunch of 1/4-1/2-inch diameter holes next to little piles of excavated soil. These are earthworm holes, and they often appear after heavy rain. Earthworms produce tunnels beneath the soil surface as they feed on decaying organic matter. When the soil becomes waterlogged, these tunnels begin to collapse and the worms migrate upwards to escape. As they make their way to the surface, they re-dig these tunnels and the displaced soil ends up outside.
This is one case where holes in the ground are a good thing!
Have questions? Email [email protected].
Looking |
hes that grow straight up) and branches that are rubbing together.
If you want to prune to keep the tree’s height under control, do so either right before it blooms or after fruit set. Pruning encourages new growth, which is susceptible to frost damage, so avoid doing it late in the year. Lower branches can be pruned to improve access to fruit.
Q: After the rain, I found all these mounds in the ground. Do you have any idea what they are?
A: Your photo shows a bunch of 1/4-1/2-inch diameter holes next to little piles of excavated soil. These are earthworm holes, and they often appear after heavy rain. Earthworms produce tunnels beneath the soil surface as they feed on decaying organic matter. When the soil becomes waterlogged, these tunnels begin to collapse and the worms migrate upwards to escape. As they make their way to the surface, they re-dig these tunnels and the displaced soil ends up outside.
This is one case where holes in the ground are a good thing!
Have questions? Email [email protected].
Looking for more gardening tips? Here’s how to contact the Master Gardener program in your area.
Los Angeles County
San Bernardino County |
for more gardening tips? Here’s how to contact the Master Gardener program in your area.
Los Angeles County
San Bernardino County |
It is becoming increasingly apparent that sustained corporate success lies in harmony with a healthy society and environment.
At Process Street we also recognize the increasing priority adopting a sustainable business model should have.
In this article, we explain what a sustainable business is, why it is important, how it can benefit your business in both the short and long term, and how you can implement sustainable actions into your business. At the end of the post, we provide you with templates that act as aids to make your common business processes more sustainable.
- What is a sustainable business?
- Why business sustainability is important: The three principles of sustainability
- A model of sustainability: Three-nested dependencies model
- Case studies for sustainable business
- The short term benefits of a sustainable business
- How you can be a sustainable business
Let’s get started.
What is a sustainable business?
Sustainability is defined as:
If we consider sustainability in a business sense, business sustainability is the preservation of a business through time. This means infinite business success and profitability.
Who wouldn’t want that?
Despite the attractive outcome, business sustainability as a concept did not come about until the early 70s and was met with controversy. Publications such as The Limits To Growth addressed business economics beyond the profit and loss statement. This was the dawn of the green business model.
The green business model, or a sustainable business, consider social and environmental dimensions that envelop and interact with business economic development.
In short, to attain a sustainable business, environmental, social and financial demands need to be managed and regulated.
The green business model as a domain once attracted little attention. But there has been exponential growth in the number of businesses and organizations looking to minimize their social and environmental impacts. Many corporate giants, such as Wal-Mart, have named sustainability as a key priority, |
ness sustainability is the preservation of a business through time. This means infinite business success and profitability.
Who wouldn’t want that?
Despite the attractive outcome, business sustainability as a concept did not come about until the early 70s and was met with controversy. Publications such as The Limits To Growth addressed business economics beyond the profit and loss statement. This was the dawn of the green business model.
The green business model, or a sustainable business, consider social and environmental dimensions that envelop and interact with business economic development.
In short, to attain a sustainable business, environmental, social and financial demands need to be managed and regulated.
The green business model as a domain once attracted little attention. But there has been exponential growth in the number of businesses and organizations looking to minimize their social and environmental impacts. Many corporate giants, such as Wal-Mart, have named sustainability as a key priority, understanding its importance for business success.
Why business sustainability is important: The 3 principles of sustainability
Business sustainability consists of three principles, also known as pillars:
- Pillar one: The environment
- Pillar two: The society
- Pillar three: The economy
The next part of this article explains the impacts these three pillars have on business when they are not managed sustainably. We will also consider how these pillars interact with each other in a business sustainability model.
Pillar one: The environment and its impacts on business
News reports suggesting that our planet is heading towards catastrophe aren’t rare occurrences. The Guardian tells us that glaciers are melting at a rapid pace. The New Yorker broadcasts that the state of Louisiana is losing a football field of land every ~1.5 hours due to rising sea-levels. The Atlantic informs us that the Brazilian Amazon burns under the weight of unsustainable agricultural practices.
The human impact on planet Earth – in additi |
understanding its importance for business success.
Why business sustainability is important: The 3 principles of sustainability
Business sustainability consists of three principles, also known as pillars:
- Pillar one: The environment
- Pillar two: The society
- Pillar three: The economy
The next part of this article explains the impacts these three pillars have on business when they are not managed sustainably. We will also consider how these pillars interact with each other in a business sustainability model.
Pillar one: The environment and its impacts on business
News reports suggesting that our planet is heading towards catastrophe aren’t rare occurrences. The Guardian tells us that glaciers are melting at a rapid pace. The New Yorker broadcasts that the state of Louisiana is losing a football field of land every ~1.5 hours due to rising sea-levels. The Atlantic informs us that the Brazilian Amazon burns under the weight of unsustainable agricultural practices.
The human impact on planet Earth – in addition to its animals and plants – is outlined in the quote below:
“Humans have caused the annihilation of 83% of all wild mammals and half of all plants, the authors of the report found. And it’s not just that humans are wiping out wildlife — they’re also determining the animals and plants that remain. Of the birds left in the world, 70% are poultry chickens and other farmed birds. And of the mammals left in the world, 60% are livestock, 36% are pigs, and a mere 4% are wild.” – Erica Sanchez, Jana Sepehr, and Joe McCarthy, Humanity Has Killed 83% of All Wild Mammals and Half of Plants: Study
As upsetting as such news is on a personal level, we stand back and ask ‘what does this mean for business?’
This is the question that pillar one, the environment, addresses.
According to reports from 2018, $125 trillion is the financial worth of nature.
All businesses utilize our planet’s resources to obtain a slice of the $125 trillion pie. Whether that is using materials for physical products or energy, or relying on impor |
on to its animals and plants – is outlined in the quote below:
“Humans have caused the annihilation of 83% of all wild mammals and half of all plants, the authors of the report found. And it’s not just that humans are wiping out wildlife — they’re also determining the animals and plants that remain. Of the birds left in the world, 70% are poultry chickens and other farmed birds. And of the mammals left in the world, 60% are livestock, 36% are pigs, and a mere 4% are wild.” – Erica Sanchez, Jana Sepehr, and Joe McCarthy, Humanity Has Killed 83% of All Wild Mammals and Half of Plants: Study
As upsetting as such news is on a personal level, we stand back and ask ‘what does this mean for business?’
This is the question that pillar one, the environment, addresses.
According to reports from 2018, $125 trillion is the financial worth of nature.
All businesses utilize our planet’s resources to obtain a slice of the $125 trillion pie. Whether that is using materials for physical products or energy, or relying on important natural cycles for freshwater, pollination or seed dispersal. All in all, business profits ultimately rely on what our planet gives us.
It makes sense for businesses to ensure that $125 trillion is sustained into the future, and not squandered over a short time period.
By preserving natural resources, extinction in a business sense is prevented.
Business and environmentalism as concepts are, therefore, very compatible. By ensuring our natural world and its resources are sustained into the future, businesses are maintained by virtue.
Pillar two: The society and its impacts on business
Pillar two, social sustainability, is about understanding human needs.
From a business perspective, social sustainability is realizing the impacts corporations have on workers and society as a whole. This includes accounting for human rights, health and safety, community engagement, work-life-balance, philanthropy, diversity, and equality.
Professor of Accountability and CSR at the Middlesex University Business School, Adria |
tant natural cycles for freshwater, pollination or seed dispersal. All in all, business profits ultimately rely on what our planet gives us.
It makes sense for businesses to ensure that $125 trillion is sustained into the future, and not squandered over a short time period.
By preserving natural resources, extinction in a business sense is prevented.
Business and environmentalism as concepts are, therefore, very compatible. By ensuring our natural world and its resources are sustained into the future, businesses are maintained by virtue.
Pillar two: The society and its impacts on business
Pillar two, social sustainability, is about understanding human needs.
From a business perspective, social sustainability is realizing the impacts corporations have on workers and society as a whole. This includes accounting for human rights, health and safety, community engagement, work-life-balance, philanthropy, diversity, and equality.
Professor of Accountability and CSR at the Middlesex University Business School, Adrian Henriques, states:
“Social impact includes anything that affects company-stakeholder relationships: from how much and how reliably suppliers are paid, to how a product affects lives. From how small shareholders may be treated to the impacts of alcohol on health and communities.” – Adrian Henriques, Understanding a company’s social impact is crucial to sustainability
One key element that’s certainly contributing to Google’s success is high employee satisfaction.
86% of Google employees state they are satisfied with their jobs. Providing flexible working hours, fun offices and encouraging collaboration and trust, Google integrates social responsibility into its business strategy and delivers a profitable company culture.
Walt Disney certainly practices what it preached in the childhood classic movie Winnie the Pooh. Take Disney’s voluntEARS program for instance. The program encourages employees to donate time to community service efforts. It’s a successful program, as 2.9 million hours of service have been pu |
n Henriques, states:
“Social impact includes anything that affects company-stakeholder relationships: from how much and how reliably suppliers are paid, to how a product affects lives. From how small shareholders may be treated to the impacts of alcohol on health and communities.” – Adrian Henriques, Understanding a company’s social impact is crucial to sustainability
One key element that’s certainly contributing to Google’s success is high employee satisfaction.
86% of Google employees state they are satisfied with their jobs. Providing flexible working hours, fun offices and encouraging collaboration and trust, Google integrates social responsibility into its business strategy and delivers a profitable company culture.
Walt Disney certainly practices what it preached in the childhood classic movie Winnie the Pooh. Take Disney’s voluntEARS program for instance. The program encourages employees to donate time to community service efforts. It’s a successful program, as 2.9 million hours of service have been put in since its inception.
Pillar three: The economy and its impacts on business
It is at pillar three, the economic pillar, where we find common ground with most businesses. To be sustainable, businesses must make a profit.
Activities that fit under the economic pillar include compliance, proper governance and risk management.
Let’s consider the oil company Shell as an example to explain pillar three.
Often deemed as ‘evil’, oil companies receive a lot of pressure to reduce the use of fossil fuels and switch to renewable sources. Investment in Shell occurs due to the returns Shell brings. But abruptly dropping fossil fuels will mean losing returns and thus investment. The adoption of renewable energy resources, therefore, has to be slow and incremental.
To achieve a successful balance, Shell has set targets to cut its net carbon footprint by 50% by the year 2050. If Shell meets these targets, Shell will have successfully balanced economic factors to meet the environmental climatic demands of being more sustai |
t in since its inception.
Pillar three: The economy and its impacts on business
It is at pillar three, the economic pillar, where we find common ground with most businesses. To be sustainable, businesses must make a profit.
Activities that fit under the economic pillar include compliance, proper governance and risk management.
Let’s consider the oil company Shell as an example to explain pillar three.
Often deemed as ‘evil’, oil companies receive a lot of pressure to reduce the use of fossil fuels and switch to renewable sources. Investment in Shell occurs due to the returns Shell brings. But abruptly dropping fossil fuels will mean losing returns and thus investment. The adoption of renewable energy resources, therefore, has to be slow and incremental.
To achieve a successful balance, Shell has set targets to cut its net carbon footprint by 50% by the year 2050. If Shell meets these targets, Shell will have successfully balanced economic factors to meet the environmental climatic demands of being more sustainable.
Gorging on a finite resource to maximize profit has grave environmental and social costs. Yes, profit is vital for corporate success but it cannot be at the expense of the other two pillars. To truly understand why, read the next section of this article.
A model for sustainability: Three-nested dependencies model
There has been some debate over how the three pillars of sustainability interact with one another. The most accurate model proposed is the 3-nested-dependencies model.
This model represents a co-dependent reality between the environment, society, and the economy.
Human society and our economy are wholly-owned subsidiaries of the environment. Neither can prosper in the long-run without prosperous, healthy surroundings. Beyond the environment, economic success is then driven by the exchange of goods and services. This exchange is determined by social constructs and choices that make up a society. Economic success does not come with fragile, poverty-stricken, despondent communities.
In summary, a |
nable.
Gorging on a finite resource to maximize profit has grave environmental and social costs. Yes, profit is vital for corporate success but it cannot be at the expense of the other two pillars. To truly understand why, read the next section of this article.
A model for sustainability: Three-nested dependencies model
There has been some debate over how the three pillars of sustainability interact with one another. The most accurate model proposed is the 3-nested-dependencies model.
This model represents a co-dependent reality between the environment, society, and the economy.
Human society and our economy are wholly-owned subsidiaries of the environment. Neither can prosper in the long-run without prosperous, healthy surroundings. Beyond the environment, economic success is then driven by the exchange of goods and services. This exchange is determined by social constructs and choices that make up a society. Economic success does not come with fragile, poverty-stricken, despondent communities.
In summary, a healthy economy cannot be sustained without a healthy society or environment. From the small-scale economy of a single business, up to the larger-scale global economy, all financial facets are at the mercy of social and environmental factors, and it is the environment that ultimately deals the trump card.
The next part of this article outlines case studies to show the sustainable business model and its interacting three principles, in real-life scenarios.
Case studies for sustainable business
Sustainable business case study one: The collapse of cod fisheries
The year 1993 saw the commercial extinction of the Northern Cod.
Commercial extinction is the depletion of a species population to the point where not enough can be caught and sold to earn a profit.
Technological advances, like ocean-trawling and pinpointing fish using radar and electronic navigation systems, meant the number of fish caught in Canadian catches dramatically rose. Peaking in the 1970s and 1980s, the economic success of Canadian fisheries s |
healthy economy cannot be sustained without a healthy society or environment. From the small-scale economy of a single business, up to the larger-scale global economy, all financial facets are at the mercy of social and environmental factors, and it is the environment that ultimately deals the trump card.
The next part of this article outlines case studies to show the sustainable business model and its interacting three principles, in real-life scenarios.
Case studies for sustainable business
Sustainable business case study one: The collapse of cod fisheries
The year 1993 saw the commercial extinction of the Northern Cod.
Commercial extinction is the depletion of a species population to the point where not enough can be caught and sold to earn a profit.
Technological advances, like ocean-trawling and pinpointing fish using radar and electronic navigation systems, meant the number of fish caught in Canadian catches dramatically rose. Peaking in the 1970s and 1980s, the economic success of Canadian fisheries skyrocketed with the overexploitation of our environmental resource.
This success was, however, short-term.
Negative repercussions soon prevailed in 1992 as the cod species projected towards extinction. The environmental resource was not sustained.
The Canadian cod fisheries consequently collapsed. 35,000 fishermen and fish plant workers lost their jobs in the largest industrial closure of Canadian history. A non-sustained environmental resource resulted in adverse social and economic repercussions. Displaced workers were given financial aid and provided with retraining programs, all at a cost to the Canadian economy.
Sustainable business case study two: 2015 Indonesia fires
In February 2015, 5,000km of Indonesia burned under a thick smog. The vast palm oil monocultures, which provoked this catastrophe, were reduced to ash.
Torching a wonderland rich in endemic species to clear the way for plant monocultures of palm oil had always imposed a hazard. In 2015, which was a warmer year than usual, that hazard sprea |
kyrocketed with the overexploitation of our environmental resource.
This success was, however, short-term.
Negative repercussions soon prevailed in 1992 as the cod species projected towards extinction. The environmental resource was not sustained.
The Canadian cod fisheries consequently collapsed. 35,000 fishermen and fish plant workers lost their jobs in the largest industrial closure of Canadian history. A non-sustained environmental resource resulted in adverse social and economic repercussions. Displaced workers were given financial aid and provided with retraining programs, all at a cost to the Canadian economy.
Sustainable business case study two: 2015 Indonesia fires
In February 2015, 5,000km of Indonesia burned under a thick smog. The vast palm oil monocultures, which provoked this catastrophe, were reduced to ash.
Torching a wonderland rich in endemic species to clear the way for plant monocultures of palm oil had always imposed a hazard. In 2015, which was a warmer year than usual, that hazard spread like wildfire over Indonesia.
Again, activities that did not account for sustaining nature caused a delayed backlash that whipped havoc over Indonesia’s society. Accounting for both direct deaths from the blaze and indirect deaths from the lingering smokey haze, 100,000 people were estimated to have died from the disaster.
The economic impacts were just as cutting. The estimated cost of these fires for Indonesia, due to humanitarian aid and loss of productive land, was around $1.6 billion.
Sustainable business case study three: Dhaka garment factory collapse
On April 24th, 2013, the factory known as Rana Plaza in Dhaka cracked and shuddered under the weight of its workers and machines. The Bangladeshi factory, serving the fast fashion industry, had its workers stitching and sewing over twelve hours a day, to take home as little as ~$50 a month each.
Structural cracks in the eight-story commercial building were reported, causing the closure of shops in its lower floors. The garment factory owners ignored war |