Wake Up and You Might Not Get to Smell the Coffee?

Coffee beans have reached a record price of $4.44 per kilogram. This price increase seems due to a combination of adverse weather and the effects of the Covid19 pandemic (https://www.theguardian.com/food/2021/sep/30/coffee-bean-price-spike-just-a-taste-of-whats-to-come-with-climate-change). There was a cold snap in Brazil and there have been a string of droughts in coffee-growing areas. So, there currently isn't "An Awful Lot of Coffee in Brazil". The Covid19 pandemic has also influenced care, harvesting and transport of the coffee crop. Experts believe that "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet". They think climate change will drive up the costs of many crops and predict that the cost of coffee beans will rocket.

The Denmark Model For Meat Plant Workers

Denmark is currently an outlier in the conditions it gives its meat plant workers (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/30/we-have-to-fight-for-these-conditions-why-danish-meat-plant-workers-are-europes-best-paid). Denmark's meat plant workers are currently the highest paid in Europe. Its workers get about twice the salary of counterparts in Germany and Ireland. Unlike most EU countries and the UK, Denmark's workforce is fully unionised. In the country's largest meat plants, workers are Danish Crown employees. Although the country's meat plants can use workers sourced by agencies and sub-contractors, they are all paid the same wage for doing the same job. There is no competitive advantage to be gained from casualising labour. Denmark's meat plant workers are also given regular shift breaks, as there is a legal requirement to prevent competitive strain injury. This is essential, when a typical slaughterman has to deal with a pig every six seconds (the current rate in one Danish plant is 432 pigs per hour). Competitive strain injury is also minimised in Denmark, by using robots and new technology for heavier tasks. In addition, the country's meat plant workers receive pensions, generous maternity leave, sick pay and 5 weeks holiday annually. It sounds like a model that should be adopted across the entire sector in the EU. It isn't. In the 'race to the bottom' to supply cheap meat, Denmark is actually losing meat plant workers to Germany and other countries. It sounds as if laws need to be changed?

Covid19 and Diabetes

Some prevously-healthy people, infected with Sars-CoV-2, develop diabetes mellitus. The type 1 version of this condition, is caused by the Islets of Langerhans in the pancreas failing to produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that reduces the blood 'sugar' level by converting glucose into its storage material glycogen ('animal starch'). Separate studies in New York and Sienna have provided some indication of the genesis of the link between Covid19 and diabetes (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/sep/29/covid-can-infect-cells-in-pancreas-that-make-insulin-research-shows ). The New York study used tiny clumps of tissue cultured cells, called 'organoids'. This investigation found that cultured pancreatic organoids (along with those of the brain, lung, colon, heart and liver) could be infected by the Covid19 virus. Infection of pancreatic organoids, seemed to change the fate of beta cells (the cells that produce insulin) in the Islets of Langerhans. Beta cells appeared to be reduced in number, the tissue becoming more 'mixed'. The Sienna investigation found that Covid19 attacked pancreatic cells, largely by targeting Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) proteins on their surfaces. Infection by the virus also increases the density of ACE2 receptors on the surfaces of insulin-secreting cells. This extra ACE2 made these cells more prone to infection, reducing the subsequent production of the glucose-lowering (hypoglycaemic) hormone. Some debate remains around whether the diabetes, produced by a Covid19 infection, is reversible. The involvement of ACE2 receptors, also possibly accounts for the wide range of symptoms produced by the viral infection. Many organs have the ACE2 receptor.

Pot Boiler?

The gas boilers of UK homes, produce twice as much carbon dioxide and eight times the nitrogen dioxide generated by all the country's power stations (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/29/uks-home-gas-boilers-emit-twice-as-much-co2-as-all-power-stations-study). Carbon dioxide is, of course, a potent 'greenhouse gas' the UK has pledged to dramatically reduce. Nitrogen dioxide is another atmospheric pollutant (also found in car exhausts), linked to respiratory illness and early deaths in thousands of people. Concomitantly, many consumers are facing rocketing gas prices for heating their homes and/or the collapse of their supplier. Insulate Britain, in spite of its activists now being threatened with imprisonment, are continuing to block roads and motorways. Whether one approves of Insulate Britain's methods or not, their demand that government transforms the energy efficiency of the UK's aging housing stock is entirely logical. It should be very clear that urgent action on both heating and insulation of UK homes is needed. Making vague promises, near the time of Cop26, would be completely meaningless. At the very least (they have even resisted this, thus far), the UK government should ban the fitting of gas boilers to new-build homes. Heat pumps run on electricity. They are also much more energy-efficient. Fitting them, will make the houses initially more expensive but it is a far cheaper option than later replacing gas boilers. There also needs to be a serious plan (with appropriate levels of funding), to upgrade the energy efficiencies of older houses. Without both, 'aspirations' to become carbon zero by 2050, are just 'pie in the sky'.

Getting More Than You Bargained For in Your 'Five a Day'?

'Five a Day' campaign was an oversimplified campaign to get people to eat more 'healthy' fruit and vegetables. It predictably resulted in increased eating/drinking of fruit; fruit juice and baked beans, whilst having little effect on fresh vegetable consumption. The advice is appears further complicated by an analysis of official UK government figures on contamination of fruit and veg with pesticides (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/29/cocktail-pesticides-almost-all-oranges-grapes-uk-study ). The analysis was carried out by the Pesticide Action Network (PAN). Pesticides include fungicides (to kill moulds); herbicides (to kill competing plants) and insecticides (administered in the vain hope of killing pest insects, without damaging pollinators). Some pesticides cause cancer. Others are reproductive or developmental toxins. A third category (mainly insecticides), influence neurotransmitters, changing brain activity. None of the individual pesticides in government tests exceeded legal limits. PAN, however, totalled 122 in the 12 most commonly-polluted fruit and veg. More than 60% of these pesticides, are UN-classified as being highly hazardous to human health and/or the environment. PAN listed 12 fruit and veg, in terms of their sample percentage contaminated with one or more (the actual range was 2 to 25) pesticides. The list from the highest (almost 90%) to the lowest (more than 15%) levels of contamination was:- grapes; oranges; dried fruit (e.g. raisins and sultanas); herbs; pears; peas with edible pods; beans in pods; okra; lettuce; dried beans; carrots and mango. If the levels of individual pesticides, are within legal limits, why are PAN concerned? The effects of 'cocktails' of pesticides on human health, have never been assessed. Rather obviously, people eating even modest quantities of fruit and veg, are likely to be also ingesting a number of pesticide residues. People need to know whether pesticides can have additive effects.

The Sacrifice of English Secondary Schools

English Secondary Schools opened this September. There had been little improvement in the ventilation of buildings. Pupils no longer had a requirement to wear face-masks and social distancing was limited. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) have looked at the reporting of Long Covid symptoms in students and staff with a previously confirmed Covid infection. The ONS found that almost 36% of staff and more than 12% of students reported having symptoms several weeks after their infection. Common symptoms of Long Covid include weakness and tiredness. Many of the teachers also reported being short of breath. Many of the Long Covid patients in Secondary Schools, opined that the condition was impairing their ability to work effectively. This certainly isn't going to facilitate any academic catch-up in Secondary Schools. The pupils and their teachers will also be 'bringing it all back home'.

A Real Boost?

David O'Connor (University of Wisconsin) has commented on the New England Journal of Medicine's report on Israel's experiences with a third ('booster') jab of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine on their over 60s (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/27/data-israel-covid-booster-shots-standard). O'Connor notes that the Israelis were stimulated to give a third dose, by their observations on double-vaccinated 60-year olds. People vaccinated 5 months (or longer) previously, were three times more likely to be infected by the Delta variant of Covid19, than counterparts double jabbed more recently. Their initial studies with a third vaccine dose are striking. Two weeks after 1.1 million over 60's received a booster, they were found to be more than 11 times less likely to become infected by the highly contagious Delta variant. Not only were people receiving the booster dose better protected, a barrier was created for the onward transmission of the virus. The third injection was also protecting people who had not been or could not be vaccinated. It appeared that the third vaccine dose, produced an antibody response that was higher in magnitude and wider in breadth against viral variants than that seen after the second vaccine dose. As O'Connor says, the booster jabs were not just an 'immune refresher but an immunological upgrade'. He suggests that the third dose is likely to reduce the need for frequent future boosts by conferring a longer-lasting immunity. Giving a third dose, consequently seems to be an excellent strategy for other populations. O'Connor maintains it is important to carry on attempting to persuade the vaccine-reluctant to get injected. Extra protection for all is, however, conferred by the reduced viral transmission in already enthusiastic over 60's. One might add that it is also important to get people in the poorer parts of the world vaccinated. It shouldn't ever be a case of either booster doses for the rich world or first treatments for the poorer parts. Sufficient quantities of the vaccine can, and should, be made.

Meeting Expectations For Cheap Meat?

Cheap meat is popular. The EU and the UK meat industries are worth around £190bn per year. One million people work in this sector. Meat products are kept cheap in Europe by using thousands of outsourced workers in meat plants (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/28/revealed-exploitation-of-meat-plant-workers-rife-across-uk-and-europe). The outsourced workers are generally migrants, supplied by subcontractors, agencies and bogus 'co-operatives'. In The Netherlands (a major meat exporter), for example, 90% of the work force of meat plants are migrants. Across Europe, migrants receive 40-50% less in wages, than directly employed staff. Often, they have undefined working hours, are on zero hour contracts, are falsely registered as 'self-employed' and receive no sick pay. We also know how easily Covid19 spreads in meat plants. The meat processing companies are responsible for ensuring they are not employing workers under illegal terms and conditions. It appears, however, that the rules are rarely enforced in a 'race to the bottom' in terms of cheapness and profits. Dealing with climate change involves getting people to eat less meat. This is good for individual health and the health of the planet. Meat production is associated with massive release of 'greenhouse gases', including methane from burping cows. Driving down the cost of meat, by exploiting workers, seems to be counterintuitive. It might be better if meat was an occassional 'treat'?

Should Scientists Run the Country?

Phillip Ball poses the question 'Should scientists rule the country?', to which one answer might be that they couldn't do a worse job than some of the politicians (https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/sep/27/should-scientists-run-the-country). A more traditional and accurate answer is that, politicians are elected to take decisions and scientists appointed to advise them. Science isn't democratic. A perfect pairing would combine intelligent, open-minded politicians with a full range of advice from the various branches of 'hard' and 'soft' science. Politicians making appointments to load the dice in favour of their own preconceptions, is not a good model. The politicians should also clearly be aware of the limitations of Science, especially in the early stages of new challenges. Solly Zuckermann's observation that scientists who want to rule, should first get elected, is highly pertinent. It rarely happens. Winston Churchill's adage that 'scientists should be on tap but not on top' is also relevant. Having said all that, it would be helpful if a few more of our rulers understood the basics of science. Politics, Economics and Philosophy/Classics don't give every politician all the necessary skills to govern effectively. This is especially true when facing technological challenges.

Cop Out?

Most senior delegates (from the UK, the UN or the USA), who will be attending Cop26 in Glasgow, 'privately' think a breakthrough to 'fulfil the aspiration of the Paris agreement' is unlikely. The Paris agreement aimed to keep global heating down to 1.5 degrees Centigrade above pre-Industrial levels. A postscript to Paris, asked countries to pledge Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for their emissions reductions every 5 years. There are now plans to ask for NDC's annually (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/27/cop26-climate-talks-will-not-fulfil-aims-of-paris-agreement-key-players-warn). It should be remembered that the 1.5 degree 'safe limit' was always only an 'educated guess' by climate scientists. Things seem to be moving faster and harder than was ever envisaged in 2015. Most senior delegates seem to accept that 'greenhouse gas' emissions from major economies this decade, will fall well short of those needed to limit global heating. Worryingly, China (a major polluter) has never filed an NDC. They, along with the French, will also have been deeply irritated by the recent Aukus pact between Australia, the UK and the US. The pact involves sharing technology on nuclear submarines. The timing of the pact is, at best, poor. It looks as if the Australians are being 'rewarded' and the Chinese threatened. The Australian Prime Minister is a 'naughty boy'. He has no intention of doing anything about climate change. It looks as if neither the Australian PM nor the Chinese President will travel to Cop26. Getting meaningful agreements on 'greenhouse gas' emissions at Cop26 may be even harder than was predicted by the 'pessimists'. You can't get meaningful action on climate, if some of the 'big players' are absent.

The Milk of Covid Kindness?

Workers at Mount Sinai hospital in New York, studied 75 breastfeeding women who had recovered from a Sars-CoV-2 infection. Almost 90% had milk antibodies to counter the virus. These antibodies remained in the milk for 10 months after the Covid infection (https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/sep/27/antibodies-in-breast-milk-remain-for-10-months-after-covid-infection-study). The predominant milk antibody was Secretory Immunoglobulin A (IgA). It is different from the antibody found in the blood. This IgA could prevent the virus from entering the body of the mother's baby. Their study also looked at 50 lactating women, who had been jabbed with the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson vaccines. Individuals treated with Pfizer or Moderna (both RNA) vaccines, generally showed high levels of milk antibodies. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine was much less effective in this respect. It appears that vaccines that produce a marked blood antibody response, also generate high levels of IgA in the milk. The authors of the study suggest, that IgA extracted from breast milk, could be given to adults with severe Covid infections. A nebuliser could be used to deliver the antibody to the respiratory tract. Yet another weapon in the war against Sars-CoV-2?

Beavers OK: Wolves No?

Scotland has had some notable successes in rewilding projects and has even been exporting some of the animals to other countries. Francesca Osowska (of NatureScot) has suggested, however, that demands to reintroduce apex predators (like wolves and bears) could damage the needed support for rewilding the British countryside (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/24/reintroducing-wolves-to-uk-could-hit-rewilding-support-expert-says). Farmers and Highland estate managers are often first to express their concerns about reintroductions. Scotland's projects to reintroduce the beaver and the Sea eagle have been very successful. NatureScot have, however, authorised the shooting of beavers accused by farmers of 'damaging' farmland in the Tayside area. More than 200 have now been shot. The National Farmers Union Scotland are also likely to request permission to shoot Sea eagles. It is alledged (although it seems unlikely) that these raptors attack lambs. Evidence for the 'crimes' of animals is often very anecdotal. There is a heady mix with tolerated and non-tolerated species. Some of this merely reflects human taste. Deer numbers are booming in Scotland. This is bad news for attempts to reforest areas of the countryside. Failure to reintroduce apex predators means that a shooting programme (with disturbance) becomes the only option. Areas managed in this way, would really only be semi-rewilded.

Is 'Mother Nature' a Psychopath?

The above question is posed by Joanna Blythman, who also asks 'why would she design foods to shorten the lifespan of the human race?' (https://www.theguardian.com/food/2021/sep/26/food-myths-busted-dairy-salt-steak-swedish-study-science-health-advice). The answer, of course, is that nobody has 'designed food' for us. Eggs, cheese and meat were not designed for the benefit of humans. Food is basically what an animal can get from its environment. In ancient times, humans wouldn't have been 'too picky', so long as they got the calories needed to grow and function. Remember also,that early humans would not have been too obsessed about their lifespans (nasty, brutish and short?). Clearly, Johanna has a thing about the benefits of 'whole foods' and a corresponding aversion to the ultraprocessed (which she claims currently accounts for 50% of the UK diet). One can have some sympathy her attempt to bust 'food myths'. Dietary advice is, however, a highly contentious area and is in a constant state of flux. It's difficult to be sure of anything when a) contrary evidence is not presented and b) the funding supporting studies is not clarified. It's interesting that a study of more than 4000 Swedes, studied for 16 years, suggested that a diet rich in dairy fat lowered the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). The meta-analysis cited to support this finding is, however, not the only study on saturated fats and CHD. Jumping from CHD to stroke also seems a bit of a leap. Many people, in addition to Johanna, think the '5-a-day' mantra for fruit and vegetables is too simplistic. She is probably right that it ends up with people ingesting too much sugar from fruit (people are not as keen on veg). Her advice not to worry too much about salt intake, so long as it is 'moderate', seems acceptable. There is, however, a link between high dietary salt and elevated blood-pressure. Johanna's claim that you can eat as much steak as you like, as long as you dump the hot-dogs, is a bit contentious. Even if you are unworried about climate change and methane from beef, too much red meat has been linked to health problems. She also says you can eat as many eggs as you like. Virtually anything in excess, is likely to be unhealthy. The trouble is that people like simple messages. 'Whole foods-good: Processed foods-bad' is likely to appeal to many people. It's probably more complex than that.

Nationalism and Stupidity?

Unfortunately, I can't help agreeing with journalist, Nick Cohen. The world's rich nations, due to their nationalism and stupidity, have not dealt with the Covid19 pandemic at all well (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/25/why-cant-we-tackle-covid-and-climate-heating-nationalism-and-stupidity). Cohen describes our failure to vaccinate the world as 'astonishing'. The rich nations, leaving millions to die needless deaths, is clearly a moral affront. Cohen also maintains, however, that the rich nations clearly don't recognise their own self-interest. Many authorities have pointed out that failure to vaccinate the world, means that the virus is still out there, mutating. This, however, isn't the only gap in understanding on display by rich nations. The International Monetory Fund estimates that, if Covid continues to spread, the world economy risks losing £3.3tn by 2025. The cost of vaccinating everyone on the planet is a mere £70bn. It's a bargain! We prefer, however, to throw past-their-expiry-dates vaccines away, after initially hoarding them. Nationalism and stupidity also seem guaranteed to make dealing with the climate crisis next to impossible.

A Safe Pair of Hands?

The UK PM, in a somewhat patronising speech to the United Nations, said "It is time for humanity to grow up" (https://www.theguardian.com/politics/ng-interactive/2021/sep/23/boris-johnsons-climate-speech-annotated-what-he-said-and-what-he-meant). He compared humanity to an adolesecent, "just old enough, to get into trouble". The PM maintained "We trash our habitats again and again with inductive reasoning that we have got away with it so far, and therefore we will get away with it again." Just a bit of background on this sage. Whilst at Oxford University (and consequently well into his 20's), the PM was a member of the notorious Bullingham Club. The specialities of this all-male group included a) inserting their privates into the mouth of a pig's head and b) trashing any eating or drinking location they gathered in. Fortunately for the pig, it was dead. Their parents also paid for the damage, preventing any prosecutions of club members. The PM also came to power by advocating leaving a club (the EU), whose rules he was determined not to follow. He now would like everyone to agree to follow rules at COP26 in Glasgow, to save the planet from climate crisis. The PM also quoted Kermit the frog (as you do). To misquote Kermit "It is easy being pretend green". So, punk, do you feel lucky?

What Gets Edited?

Scientists, vets and farmers say the UK government should 'free livestock science from gene editing restictions' (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/sep/26/gene-editing-would-allow-us-to-create-hardier-farm-breeds). Gene editing or CRISPR, is a cheap and powerful way of modifying the DNA of organisms by adding or deleting bases. Enthusiasts claim it is comparable to traditional breeding methods. Certainly genes are changed in both. Gene editing is, however, light year's faster and more precise. The proponents point out that gene editing seems to be currently accepted, in the UK, as a means of altering crops. Regulatory bodies are, however, more reticient about gene editing and animals. The enthusiasts maintain that gene editing is inappropriately subjected, by the EU, to the same restrictions as Genetic Modification (GM) technologies. In GM, whole genes from another organism are inserted into the DNA. Although there is still some antipathy to GM in farming, most people approve its use in medical developments (like the production of insulin). Enthusiasts for gene editing in farm animals, maintain it is 'vital to create livestock resistant to disease, droughts and heatwaves'. Brexit, they say, gives the UK the opportunity to deviate from the EU (although it's uncertain how the latter will respond to UK meat products). Studies, carried out at Edinburgh's Roslin Institute and Imperial College London, appear to point the way. For example, it seems likely that gene editing will enable scientists to create animals resistant to avian and swine 'flu. This, would not only reduce farming losses, animal suffering and the need for drugs, it would lower the chances of humans being subjected to these same diseases. There appears to be a good rationale for using gene editing, to to make farm animals more resistant to disease. One could argue, however, that making farm animals more resistant to droughts and heatwaves might actually detract from attempts to control climate change. Animals, unlike crops, can be moved. Also, if the DNA of farm animals can be changed to make them more heat resistant, will scientists be tempted to do the same for humans?

'Wild Camping' and National Parks

The Covid19 pandemic resulted in more Brits being stimulated to go 'wild camping'. As the country came out of lockdown, it was a) difficult to holiday abroad and b) commercial camping plots in the UK were in short supply (and often inflated in price). There were some complaints from 'locals' about littering and congestion. Currently, the Dartmoor National Park is the only English location where 'wild camping' is allowed. The Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) is, however, carrying out a consultation on proposed new bylaws. These would greatly reduce the areas where people can legally 'wild camp' (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/25/call-of-the-wild-planned-dartmoor-crackdown-will-penalise-campers). If the DNPA bylaws are adopted, 'wild camping' areas would shrink by 2,400 hectares. There would also be a ban on camping groups any larger than 50, without the landowner's permission. Fines of £500 could be levied. It has been argued by objectors, that National Parks should be there to serve the people. The objectors to the DNPA plans, don't see restricting access as being in the public interest. Scotland and much of Scandinavia currently offer many more opportunities for 'wild camping', so long as the campers leave no trace. This seems a better model for accommodating 'wild camping' in the national parks of England and Wales.

Who Causes More Damage?

A blind, paralympian gold medalist has been jailed for a year. The individual concerned, glued himself to the roof of a passenger jet at London's Heathrow airport. He was part of a demonstration for Extinction Rebellion against climate change (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/24/judge-issues-protest-warning-as-paralympian-jailed-for-plane-stunt). The trial judge said that protestors who disrupt people's lives "will face serious consequences". Three hundred and thirty-seven passengers missed their short-haul flight to Amsterdam. Profits of British Airways were measurably damaged. The flight of the disrupted passengers (I appreciate they will have simply taken a later connection) would have generated substantial quantities of 'greenhouse gases'. One can argue that the airline and the passengers were also 'disrupting people's lives'. Continued climate change will have serious consequences. Perhaps, when the man gets out of jail, he will have learned that disrupting people and hitting airline profits is much worse than aiding and abetting climate change?

Birder's Bonus 213

The Loughor estuary has silted up in places, attracting lots of birds at low tide. These include Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna); Mallard (Anas platyrhychos) and Black-tailed godwit (Limosa limosa).

It's Only Human Nature?

A few UK Shell and BP petrol (gas) stations have been forced to close, having run out of fuel. There is said to be plenty of petrol and diesel at the refineries. There is, however, a shortage of tanker drivers to deliver it to the pumps. People have been instructed not to 'panic buy', as this will simply make the situation worse. Result? Large numbers of motorists queuing outside petrol stations to fill up. Any mention of closures, was always guaranteed to get the Brits reaching for their car keys.

A Sniffle Surge

The return to schools, universities and offices in the UK along with the arrival of Autumn (Fall) weather (forcing people into closer proximity), has predictably resulted in a surge in Common cold infections (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/sep/24/return-of-the-common-cold-infections-surge-in-uk-as-autumn-arrives). Some authorities think the cold infections are have worse symptoms, after 18 months of social distancing/face mask wearing. They feel that immune defenses against this virus may have weakened. The Common cold virus also mutates so it has had a long time to change. It's, of course, also likely that the changed conditions/ behaviours in the UK, will increase the transmission of both the Covid19 and seasonal influenza viruses. It's consequently worrying that the usual annual roll-out of the seasonal influenza vaccine, has been delayed by driver shortages. Seasonal influenza can also be a killer, especially in old folk living in cold, damp houses. The current problems associated with energy supply to domestic residences and care homes, won't help.

More Rewilding in Scotland

The Affric Highlands Initiative is a 30 year 'rewilding' project coming together in Scotland. The area is 200,000 hectares of the Kintail mountain range with 3 associated glens (valleys). This particular initiative has been driven by the Trees for Life organisation (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/24/vast-area-of-scottish-highlands-to-be-rewilded-in-ambitious-30-year-project-aoe). Trees for Life have had to engage in protracted discussions with some 50 local interest groups (they employed a Psychologist). The initiative includes tree planting (the saplings will have to be protected from deer), enlarging river corridors, restoring peat bogs (important carbon sinks) and encouraging nature-friendly farming practices. These changes should greatly improve connectivity in what are currently rather fragmented habitats. Riverine species, such as salmon, trout, Ospreys and otters should benefit. As should mountain species, including Golden eagles, Red grouse, Short-eared owls and Mountain hares. The general idea is to restore the location to a situation when it had both a larger human population and a greater diversity of animal species. The Affric Highlands Initiative is one of a number of European rewilding programmes. Not all such rewilding projects involve the reintroduction of wolves/lynx (although they might eventually be needed to keep Red deer numbers in check).

Motherhood and Apple Pie?

There are some things that people cannot possibly object to. One thing, that most people, would add to that list, is striving to keep the Earth a diverse and liveable location. It's timely then that a mass global youth climate 'strike' will occur near the opening of COP26 in Glasgow (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/24/young-global-climate-strikers-vow-change-is-coming-from-the-streets). The strike will be worldwide and is currently scheduled in 1400 locations. In Germany, for example, strike action will occur in more than 400 towns and cities. These 'strikes' will occur just 2 days before the country's General Election. The organisers claim, that impetus for dealing with climate change is 'coming from the streets'. A popular groundswell is always welcome. It is to be hoped, however, that the actions of strikers don't play into the hands of vested interests. The latter currently control much of the political landscape, the media and investment portfolios. It's been all too easy, in the past, to dismiss such demonstrations as 'the idealistic expressions of youthful enthusiasms'. We had this in the 1960s, when it was assumed that people 'grow out' of their beliefs. Many older people are, however, also deeply concerned about the climate crisis. So, it might be an idea to play down any impression, that fears about a coming climate crisis, is a generational thing.

Your Car Might Not Be Waiting?

Toyota is currently the world's largest manufacturer of cars. Unlike General Motors (GM) in the US, they have not pledged to go all electric by 2050 (https://pjmedia.com/culture/bryan-preston/2021/03/19/toyota-warns-again-about-electrifying-all-autos-is-anyone-listening-n1433674). Toyota regard GM's position as simple 'virtue signalling'. They claim (as they have done in the past), they are not against electric cars (Toyota was one of the first companies to introduce a hybrid model). Toyota just don't think that a) all people can be convinced to go electric; b) the recharging infrastructure for electrics can/ will be put in place in time and c) car owners will be willing to wait for the time taken to recharge electric vehicles compared with filling up at a gas station. Their logic seems impeccable. Perhaps we ought to accept that it's the aspiration to have a private car that is the unsustainable feature (sorry, Toyota, GM, AA etc)? It would be much more logical to make all buses electric and free for use. These could be charged at their depots, when not in use. The same could also be done for HGVs, essential transport such as ambulances, delivery trucks etc etc. I appreciate that lots of people will vigorously oppose any loss of their ability to hop into a car, when they feel like it (people have had cars for more than 100 years) but this seems the only way out of the quandary.

Babies and Microplastics

Microplastics are almost environmentally ubiquitous. Microplastics find their way into the environment by variety of routes. They are produced by the disintegration of discarded larger plastic items. They are found in unfiltered laundry water. They are shed from car tyres and braking systems before being washed into rivers and the seas. Microplastic effects on food chains and human health are, however, still relatively uncertain. The average western adult ingests up to 5g of microplastics per week. Most of these relatively non-biodegradable items pass straight through. Some, however, can be accumulated in specific organs. A small New York University School of Medicine study has recently found that infants have 10 to 20 times more microplastics in their stools than are found in the faeces of adults (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/sep/22/more-microplastics-in-babies-faeces-than-in-adults-study). The predominant plastic, in infant stools, was polyethylene terephthalate. This is mainly used in textile fibres, food/beverage packaging (especially convenience-sized soft drinks, juices and water) and mobile phone cases. Perhaps, in this last case, infants get it from their parent's hands? Given the uncertainty about the potential health challenges of microplastics, reducing their ingestion by infants seems to be an urgent priority. Developing infants are generally more susceptible to contaminants than are adults.

Only a Favoured Few?

It's amazing how good the Brits are at p***ing other nations off. England's new Covid travel rules are, said to be designed to make travel easier for people. Hurray! The new rules give travellers 'fully vaccinated' by Astra/Zeneca; Pfizer/BioNTech; Moderna or Janssen shots, exemption from quarantine, when arriving from an amber list country. That is, however, only so long as they were vaccinated in Australia; an EU country; New Zealand; South Korea or the USA (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/23/englands-covid-travel-rules-spark-outrage-around-the-world). People vaccinated with precisely the same shots in Africa; Latin America or India are not considered fully vaccinated by the UK authorities. Travellers from these countries currently face 10 days of expensive quarantine. Many find this 'discriminatory' or even 'racist' (I wonder why?). 'Other factors' (unspecified) are said to provide the rationale for the distinction. It has been pointed out that the UK donated some of the vaccines used in Africa. These new rules are also said to be unhelpful in overcoming vaccine hesitancy in excluded countries. It will be problematic, if delegates from these countries, find themselves unable/unwilling to travel to COP26 in Glasgow. I thought the UK's 'newly matured' government wanted the whole world 'onboard', to deal with the climate crisis?

Does Google Want Your Analprint?

An analprint is as individual as a fingerprint. It is used by some 'smart toilets', to identify the sitter (although there are other ways of doing this). Smart toilets utilise a number of sensors, along with artificial intelligence devices. This is currently a 'hot' area. New toilets are being developed, in a number of countries, that analyse urine and/or faeces (https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/sep/23/the-smart-toilet-era-is-here-are-you-ready-to-share-your-analprint-with-big-tech). The information obtained by these smart toilets from excreta, can be used to detect cancer and other chronic diseases. They can also monitor conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, requiring frequent changes in medication. Some smart toilets are also being developed to offer nutrition advice e.g. "eat more fibre". They may even send the sitter recipes for healthy dishes. Smart toilets can also tell when the sitter is stressed and offer advice on relief. There are, however, concerns about the security of the medical and other information, extracted by these devices. It has been pointed out that 'Fitbits' were taken up enthusiastically by many people as a health and lifestyle option. The company was quickly purchased by Google, who now have access to information that is commercially useful to them. Fitbit wearers didn't expect this. None of the companies developing smart (or wellness) toilets would be immune to a take-over from Amazon, FaceBook or Google. That might well catch us with our pants down!

Getting Over the Viral Hump

In response to infective agents, Camellids (camels, alpacas and llamas) produce 'cut-down' versions of antibodies. These shorter peptides are termed nanobodies. Workers at the Rosalind Franklin Institute in Oxfordshire, raised nanobodies in a llama, by injecting her with tiny pieces of purified spike protein from SAR-CoV-2 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-58628689). When they come into contact with the virus, these nanobodies latch on. This label activates the host's immune system, working to destroy the virus. These nanobodies can be administered in a simple nasal spray. This has been done, thus far, in laboratory mice infected with SARS-CoV-2. The spray appeared to have the potential to treat or even prevent early infection with the virus. Indeed, Public Health England say that the nanobody spray is the most effective SARS-CoV-2 neutralising agent they have tested to date. Nanobody nasal sprays could turn out to be yet another means of protecting humans (and other animals?) from Covid19.

Another Vicious Circle?

It's difficult to know what to say about the actions of Insulate Britain. Their campaigners have blocked the M25 motorway around London some 5 times in a week, generating almost 350 arrests (https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/sep/22/environmental-activists-face-prison-for-further-efforts-to-block-m25). Insulate Britain do have a legitimate case. The UK has, for a comparatively rich country, some of the worst insulated homes in the world. Emissions from homes have been an important contribution by the country to climate change for decades. Things appear to be getting worse, especially for the poorer sections of society, with the hike in energy charges. Badly insulated homes and expensive heating can be a lethal combination. The UK government has, in spite of making promising noises, done very little to improve home insulation. Direct action obviously has appeared, to some folk, to be the only remaining course of action. National Highways have now obtained a court injunction against the protests. Ministers can now claim that the activists face possible imprisonment for their actions. Ministers feel free to make statements like the protesters "cannot keep disrupting and endangering people's lives". It is, of course, difficult to protest without disrupting some people's lives. The disruption is, however, likely to play into the government's hands, especially in terms of the response by the motoring and commuting fraternity. Cheap points can also be scored about emissions from the static vehicles, adding to climate change. The fact that climate change will also 'endanger people's lives' is, however, completely missed. The victims may not be in this country or be in future generations. These protests appear to be currently helping the government keep on deferring taking meaningful action. There must be away out of this vicious circle?

A Vicious Circle

One task undertaken by the European Union's Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service is the recording of carbon dioxide release by wildfires. In July 2021, the monitoring service recorded that the planet's burning forests released almost 1260 megatonnes of carbon dioxide. This record value was rapidly superseded in August, when the release of the 'greenhouse gas' by wildfires reached 1.3 gigatonnes. Most of this release predictably occurred in North America and Siberia (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/21/global-wildfire-carbon-dioxide-emissions-at-record-high-data-shows). The situation is clearly a vicious circle. The more carbon dioxide is released, the greater the impact on global heating. The hotter it gets, the more flammable swathes of the Northern hemisphere become. Forest fires are then even more likely to ignite. The amount of carbon dioxide pumped into the atmosphere, will continue to climb. And so on.

It's Like an Armando Iannucci Script?

Armando Iannucci is the Glasgow-born writer of hit political commedy programmes, such as In the Loop and The Thick of It. Picture this, the UK PM stands atop a skyscraper in New York, telling a reporter how he and the US President are working together to save the planet from climate change. There will have to be a dramatic reduction in the emissions of 'greenhouse gases', notably carbon dioxide. Concomitantly at home in the UK, one of his ministers is fixing a deal with a US-owned fertiliser company to boost carbon dioxide production (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/sep/21/ministers-reach-deal-to-restart-co2-production-at-teesside-and-cheshire-plants). The UK's shortage of carbon dioxide is causing problems in the food 'industry'. It is needed for humane slaughter of animals, putting the fizz in fizzy drinks and extending the shelflives of foods. Sixty percent of the UK's carbon dioxide produced for its food 'industry', was generated as a byproduct by two fertiliser plants in the North of England. The people running the plants had decided to shut down production, because of a sudden increase in the cost of heating gas. The UK minister is apparently going to subsidise the energy costs of the two factories, so they can restart production of their byproduct. You couldn't make it up!

Rubbish!

A knock-on effect was highly predictable, especially if you worship at the alter of 'market forces'. In 2020, almost 20,000 Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers left the UK to return to EU countries. The average age of remaining British-based HGV drivers is now 56. This seems to indicate that some have opted for early retirement. These two factors have resulted in a shortage of HGV drivers, leading to difficulties transporting items to supermarkets and elsewhere in the country. Pre-Brexit and the Covid pandemic, the average annual salary for an HGV driver was around £35,000. Now, drivers can be offered almost £57,000 per year, with a £500 signing on bonus. Predictably, this has led to an exodus of Waste and Recycling drivers ('bin men') from local councils (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/21/maggots-and-mayhem-a-day-on-a-bin-round-in-broken-brexit-britain). By leaving to become HGV drivers, bin men can earn almost £30,000 a year more. Their new working conditions are also often much more pleasant. Eighteen UK councils have recently had to delay rubbish and recycling collections due to a driver shortage. The councils cannot pay more to retain their drivers. They get most of their money from the government. Rubbish and recycling pile up on the streets. Consequently, there are concerns about public health. At least the foxes are happy, banqueting every night.

Diverse Solutions to the UK Energy Crisis?

The UK's small energy suppliers are going bankrupt, due to the rocketing price of natural gas. People had been encouraged to 'shop around' for the best deals. The small suppliers had attempted to entice new clients by offering fixed, low price deals, when gas prices were much lower. The suppliers now can't get out of these contracts. We are told that the energy price hike is due to UK's privatised Centrica storing little gas, the wind failing to blow for the turbines, Russia limiting the supply of gas, the fire damage to the cable supplying electricity from France etc, etc. Government say there is no crisis and the lights will not go out. The response in different sections of the media has been predictably diverse. The Guardian maintains that Britain's energy supply ministers should have speeded up the domestic provision of zero carbon power (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/20/the-guardian-view-on-an-energy-price-shock-a-crisis-in-the-making ). That paper claims the UK government have slowed down the transition to zero carbon power. 'Greenhouse gas' emissions from UK homes, are higher today than in 2015. The Guardian is also unimpressed by the government's net zero pledge, dismissing it as public relations. A contrary view is presented in The Telegraph where it is claimed that a rejection of gas and nuclear power 'will leave us sitting in the dark and cold' (https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/09/20/letters-rejecting-gas-nuclear-energy-leaves-us-sitting-dark/). A letter writer accuses the UK government of 'buying wholesale into climate alarmism'. This diversity of viewpoint, in the host country, doesn't auger well for COP26 in Glasgow. Neither opinion group seems convinced that we have a solution for energy supply to UK homes and industries. Worryingly, their 'solutions' are diametrically opposite.

Filters a 'No-Brainer'?

Untold numbers of microplastic particles are pumped each day into the environment from UK washing machines. The microfibres end up in many locations including marine food chains and the placentae of pregnant women. Cheap filters, capable of removing the vast majority of plastic microfibres shed from synthetic materials, like nylon, can easily be fitted to machines. There is, however, currently no requirement to fit them. Campaigners, Members of the UK Parliament and the Women's Institute all think such filters should be mandatory on washing machines (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/21/washing-machines-filters-microplastic-pollution-microfibres ). This is what is generally termed 'a no-brainer' i.e. something so obvious, it's amazing it isn't already a requirement. It's not as if microplastics have only just been noticed. All the indications suggest that microfibres are really problematic.

Some Positive PR For Carbon Dioxide?

Carbon dioxide is essential for life, as plants must use it in photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide has had, however, a bad press due to a focus on its role as a major 'greenhouse gas'. It increases global heating, with consequent climate change. The currently hyper-abundant gas also unhelpfully acidifies the oceans and rivers. The PR picture appears to be changing. A supermarket boss maintains that the UK's food supplies are under threat because of a shortage of carbon dioxide (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/sep/20/co2-crisis-could-hit-uk-food-stocks-well-before-christmas-says-iceland-boss ). Sixty percent of the UK's carbon dioxide is produced by 2 US-owned fertiliser plants in Northern England. They have shut down gas production, due to current high energy costs. Hence the shortage. Carbon dioxide has an obvious role in the production of carbonated (fizzy) drinks, including beers. It is also used, however, in slaughterhouses for humane killing (so, no turkey for Christmas?). Carbon dioxide is also used in some packaging, to extend the shelf-life of foods (e.g. salads). Obviously without the gas, 'dry ice', much used in food storage and transport, cannot be made. The 'take home message' must be that carbon dioxide is neither good nor evil. It's all a question of balance.

Another One Bites the Dust 3. My Self-Image

I am not really built for running but I have been doing it enthusiastically for decades. One reason for this exercise choice is that it requires minimal equipment and can be done almost anywhere (unless you upset local customs). Last Sunday, however, I did my 291st organised 'race' (the 40th Swansea Bay 10k). This was after a hiatus of 2 years, due to the Covid19 pandemic. I entered the race in 2019 and got to run it in 2021. The trouble with running, if you are a data collector like me, is that your physical deterioration becomes glaringly obvious. I ran the Honolulu marathon in 1986. My time was modest but not embarassingly so. It was a long way under, for me, atypical climatic conditions but it was manageable and enjoyable. On Sunday, however, 10 k was about as far as I could go. My speed was about half that achieved in 1986. I suppose I should be grateful to be still moving but even my exercise band accuses me of walking.

A New Climate For Slavery?

The climate crisis increases the incidence of extreme weather events like floods, droughts and fires. These events have devastating effects, especially on people who are already living in poverty. The World Bank estimate, by 2050, the impact of the climate crisis will have forced more than 200 million people to leave their homes. These migrations are likely to occur, according to the bank, across 6 regions. These include sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America. New studies suggest modern slavery and human trafficking are increased by forced migrations (https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/sep/20/climate-crisis-leaving-millions-at-risk-of-trafficking-and-slavery). The International Institute for Environment and Development, collaborating with Anti-Slavery International, have illustrated the danger. For example, drought in Northern Ghana, resulted in young men and women migrating from subsistence farming into the cities. The women often began working as 'porters' (carrying goods on their heads). They quickly became at risk of trafficking, sexual exploitation and debt bondage (being forced to work to pay off huge, often concocted debts). Similar problems seemed to occur in the Sundarbans (a mangrove area in a major delta between Bangladesh and India). Here, severe cyclones with flooding, drove people into the arms of human traffickers. This resulted in people working in 'sweat shops' across the border in India. There was also sexual exploitation and debt bondage. If The World Bank's predictions about the levels of forced human movements are correct, slavery is likely to be making a serious comeback by 2050.

"The Facts Change and People Change Their Minds"

COP26 in Glasgow, is thought to be a last chance to orchestrate an effective world response to the climate crisis. The UK's PM will be a major player. He was a former journalist in the right wing media. Unsurprisingly to most, some of his earlier writings have now been revealed as distinctly climate change-denying. These earlier tweets/quotes don't sit happily with his recently-professed concern for environmental issues. "The facts change and people change their minds" is his defence of this apparent inconsistency (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/20/johnson-defends-new-trade-secretary-after-climate-crisis-denial-tweets). Clearly, people can change their minds. That is to be applauded. The facts, however, don't change too much. The amount of accummulated evidence can increase but it has been pointing in the same direction for decades. His heroine, Margaret Thatcher (a former Chemist by training) was only too aware of the potential dangers of 'greenhouse gases'. I don't think it was uppermost in her mind, when she took on the coal miners. The current PM has always had a tendency to be highly opportunistic in his statements. He appears to say things he hopes will appeal to his current audience/readership. In the past, the petrochemical companies were able to use their financial power to push the climate change-denial agenda. What has really changed is that there is now wide public concern about the climate crisis. It is to be hoped that COP26 isn't wholly populated by opportunists with flexible concepts of the truth. The UK PM isn't part of what can be regarded as a reliable team.

British Baby Bust?

The 'thinktank' Social Market Foundation (SMF) have published a report entitled Baby Bust and Baby Boom: Examining the Liberal Case for Pronatalism (https://www.theguardian.com/money/2021/sep/20/british-baby-shortage-could-lead-to-economic-decline-says-thinktank). The SMF point out that the current British birthrate (1.58) is nearly half that seen in the 1960's (2.93). They put this down to the high cost of childcare (accounting for more than 20% of incomes). The SMF also report that currently there are around 3 over 65-year olds for every 10 'workers'. They predict that, by 2060, the ratio will be almost 4:10. The SMF suggest that this 'baby shortage' could lead to 'economic stagnation'. They advocate the government bringing in policies to encourage citizens to have more babies. There are several issues to consider here. The first, of course, is 'does the planet actually require more humans'? Even with failing birthrates in parts of the world, declining natality will not cause extinction of our species. It is predicted that, one of the effects of climate change, will be to force substantial numbers of people to move from their current locations. Immigration is, obviously, a 'hot' issue in many parts of the world. A second issue is 'is economic growth a proper focus for all planning?' It has been argued that the world's obsession with economic growth is ultimately unsustainable. There are finite resources. A third issue is 'is the sole function of babies to create workers'? That seems to treat countries like giant bee hives. We should certainly be considering the possible roles of AI here. We may not need as many human workers. A final issue is 'are babies created solely to care/provide for the over 65's'? There must be other ways of doing this, without stimulating a new generation of 'baby boomers'? Having said all that, I agree that child care is currently too costly in the UK for many parents. Perhaps it's more a question of making it more likely that all children (with the assistance of their parents and the state) have the opportunity to develop to their maximal potential?

Only the Football Pitch is Green

UK Premier League football seems to be well into the art of 'greenwash'. TV commentators have been repeatedly claiming that Tottenham hotspur are 'hosting the world's first net zero carbon football match, against their London rivals, Chelsea' (https://www.buzz.ie/sport/soccer/spurs-host-worlds-first-net-25020502). This local derby will alledgedly be 'net zero' because of a) special coffee containers etc being used at the Spurs ground and b) Chelsea will arrive in a low emissions coach. This is most incredible bullsh**. Presumably, none of the thousands of spectators or other workers at the ground will have used a car or bus to travel to the match. What about all the Spurs players, the referee, the linesmen and the TV pundits? Presumably also, no electricity will have been used to operate the equipment to beam the match for TV audiences. No other half-time snacks or meals will have used gas or electricity to heat them? Everything delivered to the ground (food, drinks, first aid equipment etc etc) arrived by zero emissions transport? And this is a local match in the same city. Both teams have been involved, this week, in European matches with enormous carbon emissions being generated by the teams and travelling fans. Top flight football currently isn't even slightly green. This is clearly a marketing opportunity rather than a serious attempt to counter climate change. Cynical or what?

Cashing in Their Chips?

Semiconductors (computer chips) are integral to the functioning of electric vehicles, solar panels and wind turbines. These are the technologies lined up to save the planet from the climate crisis. The manufacture of chips has, however, a very substantial carbon footprint (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/18/semiconductor-silicon-chips-carbon-footprint-climate). An illustration of the problem is provided by the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. They are the world's biggest chip producer, supplying, for example, Apple. In 2019, this chip manufacturer used 5% of Taiwan's entire electricity output. This figure is scheduled to rise in 2022. The Company also used 63m tons of water. Water use was contentious as there was a drought, impacting on the country's agriculture. Although the company is promising to 'go green by 2050', this will not be easy.

Suicide Note For a Planet?

Lots of excitement about the Atlantic splashdown of the SpaceX capsule that carried four 'civilian' astronauts into space (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/sep/19/heck-of-a-ride-spacexs-historic-amateur-astronauts-land-safely-in-atlantic). I'm sure it was all very gratifying for the four participants. It was probably all very encouraging for Mr Musk, the owner (as well as Bezos and Branson). Reportedly, mega rich film and pop stars have been expressing interest in replicating the experience (and joining the astronaut's 'exclusive' club). So, if you are a multi-millionaire/billionaire, you can add mega-tonnes of 'greenhouse gas' emissions to the atmosphere 'because you are worth it'. 'A hell of a ride', to use the more common synonym of the word 'heck'.

Seeing the Changes 1537

Buff tip moth (Phalera bucephala) larva near Silver birch in my Loughor garden.

Wobble on Wombles?

The litter-collecting Wombles were the creation of the late Elizabeth Beresford. The fictional furry ensemble have been 'recruited' for the UK government's OneStepGreener campaign, which is directed at young folk (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/18/will-wombling-free-get-us-to-net-zero-wombles-spark-debate-on-communicating-climate-crisis-aoe). The whole thrust of the Wombles is a focus on personal actions/ responsibilities. These include things like picking up litter and eating sensibly. These changes would be welcome and necessary. It can be argued, however, that the focus on individual actions is an attempt to get government off the hook. Combating climate change relies, to a much greater extent, on government actions (rather than just making easy pledges). Policies on electricity generation, house building, home heating/insulation, local transport, international travel, agriculture, dietary advice etc will have much bigger effects on the release of 'greenhouse gases'. The UK government have actually made it harder for people to campaign against/criticise their actions/failure to change. Children will eventually have to recognise that change is not just down to them.

Going Dutch

Shock, horror, the Dutch are getting smaller (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/sep/17/why-does-worlds-tallest-populace-dutch-seem-to-be-getting-shorter). The inhabitants of the Netherlands, have been noted for their impressive heights. It now appears there is currently a small reduction in height in the current crop. It has been suggested that the reduction is a consequence of immigration (people with fewer genes for impressive growth). The reduction is, however, seen in people with all four grandparents born in the Netherlands. A more likely cause appears to be changes in diet. People are now more likely to consume more convenience food (high in calories but poor in nutrients). A similar phenomenon appears to have occurred somewhat earlier in the US. Clearly, adult height is a genes/environment interaction.