Squeezing the Last Drops Out?

Humans over-exploit their planet's resources. Natural resource extraction currently accounts for 60% of global heating; 40% of air pollution, as well as 90% of water stress (there's limited potable water) and terrestrial biodiversity loss. A United Nations (UN) report predicts that, by 2060, the global extraction of raw material will further increase by 60% (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/31/raw-materials-extraction-2060-un-report). A 60% increase in the extraction of raw materials for human use in such a short time period, is massive. If this UN prediction is correct, anthropogenic climatic and environmental damage will be ratcheted up. There's only one Earth and a) resource extraction per person will have to dramatically fall and/or b) the human population per se will markedly decline (taking many other organisms with them).

Seeing the Changes 1921

Domestic apple (Malus domestica) in flower at Swansea University's Bay campus.

Plants We Used To Use 294. Meadow buttercup

Despite safety concerns, dried Meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris) has been used to treat arthritis; nerve pain; blisters; chronic skin conditions and bronchitis. This plant has also been crushed and applied, as a poultice, to the chest, to relieve colds and chest pains.

Plants We Used To Use 293. Marsh woundwort

Marsh woundwort (Stachys palustris) is effective in wound healing as well as treating skin conditions like eczema; psoriasis and dermatitis. This plant's tubers, can be dried and ground into a powder used in baking. Young shoots can be cooked and eaten.

Plants We Used To Use 292. Marsh willowherb

Young leaves and shoots of Marsh willowherb (Epilobium palustre) can be used in gourmet salads. This plant is also used to make homeopathic drops and granules registered with Health Canada.

Fishing For Complaints?

Cuts mean the Environment Agency (EA) is currently unable to do its job of effectively monitoring England's rivers. Those rivers are now in an awful state, due to a combination of the release of untreated sewage by privatised water companies and run-off from farming (like enormous chicken sheds). Both markedly increase water phosphate levels. This causes eutrophication with algal blooms. These blooms remove the water's oxygen, killing fish and the other living organisms on which they feed. Anglers (folk who fish those rivers) have become incensed about the obvious pollution levels. A number have consequently become 'citizen scientists', repeatedly monitoring English rivers (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/30/english-rivers-pollution-sewage-agriculture-uk). More than 640 anglers from 240 clubs have become 'citizen scientists'. They have monitored phosphate levels in more than 3800 water samples from 190 English rivers. 83% of the rivers failed phosphate standards on at least one test. In 44% of these waters, the average phosphate standard was failed (these are very 'sick' rivers). It's good to get this data from what has become the UK's largest water testing project. It's reprehensible that the EA isn't given the resources to do the work. How can the environment be conserved, when left to the devices of commerce without effective monitoring? Angling is the biggest participation sport in the UK. A lot of folk are getting very annoyed!

Plants We Used To Use 291. Marsh violet

An infusion of Marsh violet (Viola palustris) was used to treat coughs; colds and dysentery. Leaf and root poultices, were applied for headaches and boils, respectively.

Plants We Used To Use 290. Marsh valerian

A sedative can be obtained from the rhizomes and roots of Marsh valerian (Valeriana dioca). This has been used as a sleeping potion given to both insomniacs and folk, thieves were planning to rob.

Plants We Used To Use 289. Marsh sow-thistle

Marsh sow-thistle (Sonchus palustris) leaves and stems can be cooked, like vegetables, and added to stir fries and stews. In traditional medicine, extracts were used as diuretics; laxatives and tonics. This plant was claimed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

Disposing of the Disposables?

Vaping is less dangerous than smoking tobacco. Vapes still, however, contain highly addictive nicotine, extracted from tobacco. Vaping can be helpful in weaning cigarette smokers off their dangerous habit. This, however, is an over-sold 'virtue', exploited by vape sellers who are making impressive profits from sales. These products, with their diverse fruity flavours, especially appeal to children. The long-term health risks of vaping, are far from fully evaluated. There's a danger that vapes will create the next generation of nicotine addicts. Single-use, disposable devices also pose profound environmental problems. They litter the streets and waste massive amounts of lithium in their batteries. Suddenly, the problem seems to have been recognised. It's suggested that, in England, Scotland and Wales, legislation will be passed to outlaw the use of single-use vapes. There are also plans to restrict vapes sales to folk over 18. The range of child-friendly flavours may also be limited and rechargeable devices sold (like cigarettes) in plain packaging (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-68123202.amp). What took the politicians so long? The dangers of vaping have been evident for several years. It may be too late as a) the powerful vaping lobby is well-established; b) a generation of children have already tried vaping; c) the activity's 'pleasures' have been prominently advertised on social media and d) there's a mighty flow of illegal (and untaxed) vapes into the UK. At best, it's going to be very difficult (and expensive) to actually stop children (and others), using single-use vapes.

Wood Burners 'Down Under'

In rural locations of India, wood smoke causes much ill health and many early deaths. Women and children are especially affected. This is because wood is the major fuel for heating and cooking in their homes, which are often poorly ventilated. Women and children, of course, spend more of their time in domestic settings than do mature males, who generally leave to work. In the UK, Domestic Wood Burners have recently surged in popularity. This is especially so, in relatively 'well-heeled' areas. The smoke produced, is breathed in by both people in houses with these devices and folk living in the immediate vicinity. Concerns about the impact of Domestic Wood Burning stoves on respiratory health have, consequently, been raised here. There's now, also confirmation that Domestic Wood Burners produce widespread particulate pollution in parts of Australia (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/26/domestic-wood-burners-having-a-deadly-impact-in-outside-areas). In Canberra, Domestic Wood Burners are frequently used in their winter. A study found that 25% of that city's winter particulate pollution, emanated from these devices. In deed, it concluded that deaths from everyday exposure to Wood Burners in Canberra, was comparable to the fatalities caused by the 'black summer' bushfires of 2019/20. People, around the world, have to be educated about the dangers of breathing in wood smoke.

Getting To the Bottom of It?

The journal, Annals of Oncology (cancer studies), predicts that, in 2024, UK bowel cancer rates will 'rocket' in younger adults. In the 25-49 age group, 39 and 26% increases in bowel cancer are forecasted for females and males, respectively (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/jan/29/uk-bowel-cancer-death-rates-forecast-to-rise-by-third-among-under-50s). A half of bowel cancers are actually preventable. The causes of the forecasted wave of new cancers, are well-established. The predicted increases, are due to UK 'surges' in obesity; poor diet (mainly a lack of fibre and a current tendency to eat too much processed meat) and a lack of regular physical exercise. Medics advocate that young adults should be more strongly encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles. That's likely to be difficult for folk 'on the bread line', exposed to a cost of living crisis. Food company advertising and labelling can also be distinctly unhelpful (these need much stronger enforcement and clarification). It's also been suggested that earlier screening for bowel cancer would cut the rates. That's also not easy, given the current funding and recruitment problems in the National Health Service. This UK bowel cancer 'pandemic' really ought to have a higher profile. It's an awful disease: all the sadder, when a high proportion of its incidence can be prevented!

Plants We Used To Use 288. Marsh ragwort

Marsh ragwort (Senecio aquaticus) is toxic, containing alkaloids. In spite of this, it's been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory problems and digestive issues.

Plants We Used To Use 287. Marsh pennywort

Marsh pennywort (Hydrocotyle vulgaris) was used to treat eczema, as well as other skin conditions like scrofula and ulcers. In Malaya, its leaves were utilised to dress wounds.

Plants We Used To Use 286. Marsh pea

The young shoots and leaves of Marsh pea (Lathyrus palustris) can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a slightly sweet and nutty taste. This plant has also been used as a diuretic; laxative and a treatment for rheumatism and arthritis.

It's (Another) Gas, Gas, Gas!

Liquid propane gas is generally used for heating and cooking. It can be made plant; seed or animal oils but less than 0.05% currently comes from such sources. The rest is a by-product of refining natural gas (methane) or crude oil. So, propane certainly isn't 'green'. It's very much a fossil fuel product, which, when burned, adds to climate-altering 'greenhouse gas' emissions. In spite of this, a lobby group, The Propane Education and Research Council (Perc) have attempted to promote propane as a clean and renewable source of energy (https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/jan/25/propane-industry-rebrand-fuel-as-renewable). Between 2021 and 2022/23, Perc made a 17-fold increase in its advertising budget. In deed, over the last 2 years, that group has spent nearly $30m on advertisements extolling the 'benefits' of propane. The YouTube kids channel has received a proportion of that advertising. Children were judged. by some Perc planners, to be 'ripe' for a propane 'greenwash'. This type of campaign seems highly reprehensible. After all, it's children who will eventually inherit the consequences of anthropogenic climate change. 'Greenwashing' their untutored minds seems the worst kind of corporate misinformation. Anything to make a buck?

My RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2024 Results

I entered my results for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) 'citizen scientist' Big Garden Birdwatch 2024. Their criterion of recording the maximum number of a species actually landed in my garden at any one time, over the observation hour, was used. I recorded 1 Woodpigeon (Columba palumbus); 1 Blue tit (Parus caeruleus); 1 Blackbird (Turdus merula); 6 Starling (Sternus vulgaris) and 13 House sparrows (Passer domesticus). Both species diversity and bird numbers were unimpressive for a large garden with bird feeders.

Plants We Used To Use 285. Marsh marigold

Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) was used by Native Americans, to treat colds and sores; induce vomiting; protect against love charms and aid childbirth.

Plants We Used To Use 284. Marsh mallow

Marsh mallow (Alphaea offinalis)'s most famous former use, was its root's mucilage being an ingredient for the spongy pink/white candy. This has now been replaced by gelatine. The flowers, leaves and root of this plant are edible. It's also been used as a protection on the skin, a 'tea' and a laxative.

Plants We Used To Use 283. Marsh lousewort

Marsh lousewort (Pedicularis palustris) was thought to have many medicinal properties. It was used for wound healing; to reduce inflammation and fevers; stop bleeding; relieve pain and even as an insecticide.

Cruising To Accelerated Climate Change: Greenwash Ahoy!

A week-long holiday on a relatively modest European cruise ship, can already be up to 8 times more carbon intensive, than a traditional vacation (simply taking a flight to a foreign destination and staying at a hotel). Mega cruisers are going to massively further increase their passenger's carbon footprints. Royal Caribbean have just launched 'The Icon of the Seas'. This, merely the first of a number of similar vessels, is a monster. It has 20 decks and is capable of accommodating 7000 passengers and crew. Royal Caribbean is also now in full 'greenwash' mode. The company claims their ship's fuel of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) is the cleanest burning. Perhaps they hope to convince their well-heeled customers, they can have a clear conscience about their holiday choice (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/26/icon-of-the-seas-largest-cruise-ship-human-lasagne-climate-fuel-lng-greenwashing). Mega cruise ships are floating pollution platforms. LNG does produce 25% less carbon dioxide than conventional diesel fuel. Using it, however, results in a phenomenon called 'methane slip'. Some of the methane fuel escapes, unburned into the atmosphere. Although it survives there for a shorter time, methane is a 'greenhouse gas', with 80 times the potency of carbon dioxide. Newly constructed cruising vessels should use fuel cells and renewable hydrogen as power sources! Otherwise, they are just another opportunity for the population's top 5%, to exceed their share of 'greenhouse gas' emissions. Change it or tell it as it is!

Plants We Used To Use 282. Marsh horsetail

Marsh horsetail (Equisetum palustre) is yet another 'wide spectrum' herb. It's been traditionally used to treat urinary disorders; wounds; gonorrhoea; nosebleeds; digestive disorders; gout etc., etc.

Plants We Used To Use 281. Marsh helleborine

In the UK, Marsh helleborine (Epipactis palustris) is a protected orchid. Although this plant contains alkaloids, it's been used to treat rheumatism; nervous disorders and respiratory problems.

Plants We Used To Use 280. Marsh hawksbeard

In Traditional Medicine, Marsh hawksbeard (Crepis paludosa) has been used as a diuretic and laxative, as well as to treat skin diseases.

No Tar!

Extraction of oil from Canada's Athabasca tar sands exceed 'industry reported' emissions by a very considerable margin. The air pollution produced, contains many organic molecules. These are making people sick over a wide geographical area. Oil extraction from these sands, also uses massive amounts of water, ensuring further wide-spread pollution. The extracted heavy, bitumin obtained also produces 30% more 'greenhouse gases' per litre, than conventional oil (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/25/canadian-tar-sands-pollution-is-up-to-6300-higher-than-reported-study-finds). On all measures, exploitation of Athabasca's fossil fuels is consequently very ill-advised. The petrochemical companies involved will never, of course, cease tar sand extraction, so long as there are profits to be made and they have political support. They might even have been tempted to bend their figures, to make extraction look safer and less environmentally-damaging than it really is. It's clearly a fossil fuel that should simply be 'left in the ground'.

Birder's Bonus 230

On my way to Loughor estuary, spotted Wood pigeons (Columba palumbus) in trees. At the estuary, Little egret (Egretta garzetta); Oystercatchers (Haematopus ostralegus) and Redshank (Tringa totanus) were feeding.

Seeing the Changes 1920

The onset of catkin time around Loughor.

Plants We Used To Use 279. Marsh fleabane

Although there are toxicity issues, young leaves and flowering stems of Marsh fleabane (Senecio congestus) have been eaten raw in salads or cooked as 'greens'. They can even be fermented into a 'sauerkraut'.

Plants We Used To Use 278. Marsh cudweed

Dried Marsh cudweed (Filaginella uliginosa) has been used as a 'tea' and smoked as 'Rabbit Tobacco'. It's also been employed internally and externally, to treat laryngitis; upper respiratory catarrh and tonsillitis. In Russia, cudweed was used to treat high blood pressure.

Plants We Used To Use 277. Marsh cinquefoil

Leaves of Marsh cinquefoil (Potentilla palustris) can be dried as a 'tea'. This plant's flowers also yield a red dye. Some indigenous North Americans, use Marsh cinquefoil to treat dysentery and stomach cramps.

Ancient 'Chewing Gum'?

Wads of chewed birch bark pitch were discovered, along with human remains, in an ancient Swedish site. These artefacts were, almost 10,000 years old, from the then 'Stone Age'. The wads, appeared to have been mainly chewed by 'teenagers', inevitably resulting in their being christened 'chewing gum' (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2024/jan/23/ancient-chewing-gum-stone-age-teenagers-diet). The link between 'teenagers' and chewing gum may be, however, a little over-simplistic. One should remember that, at that time, 'teenagers' were probably the only folk, with teeth strong enough to chew birch bark pitch. Although this 'chewing gum', might have been chomped solely for pleasure, the pitch could have needed softening. Once gum-like, it may have served as a binding, when assembling 'Stone Age' weapons and tools. Birch bark pitch could also have been chewed simply to ward off hunger pangs or even for presumed medical benefits. Life-spans were much shorter in the 'Stone Age'. DNA studies on the chewed wads have, however, shed light on both 'Stone Age' diet and oral health in this location. Their diet included deer, trout and hazlenuts, with traces of apple, duck and fox. There was also clear evidence of gum disease in some of the samples.

In at the Cold End

Self-reports were obtained, in a University College of London study, from over 1000 UK women, regularly participating in cold water swimming. These subjects were 16-80 years of age, with a median age of 49. There appeared to be strong evidence of mental and physical health benefits. This was especially true of menopausal women (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/jan/25/cold-water-swimming-eases-menopause-and-menstrual-symptoms-study-finds). Many of these subjects reported, that cold water swimming, markedly reduced menopausal symptoms. These included mood swings and hot flushes. There was also some evidence,that cold water swimming, also lessened menstrual discomfort, in younger subjects. This form of exercise seems of great benefit to women over a wide age range. This activity should be facilitated by improving access to clean (unpolluted) locations. Group activity seems especially useful in maintaining this habit.

Plants We Used To Use 276. Marsh bedstraw

Marsh bedstraw (Gallium palustre) was used as a diuretic and astringent.

Plants We Used To Use 275. Majoram

Majoram (Origanum vulgare) herb and oil are used as flavouring and to 'spice up' marinades. A medicine was made from its flowers; leaves and oil. Although there's no good evidence, it was commonly used for a runny nose; coughs or colds.

Plants We Used To Use 274. Many-seeded goosefoot

Many-seeded goosefoot (Chenopodium polyspermum) has a long history as a medicinal plant. It was used to treat respiratory problems; digestive disorders and skin conditions. All parts of this plant are said to be edible but they do contain small quantities of saponins.

Tata For Now!

Part of what was British Steel (Corus), became Tata Steel in Europe in 2007. It's owned by the ubiquitous Indian billionaire. Other parts of this former state-owned company, have recently been taken over by China's Jingye Group. One part of Tata's UK empire is the two enormous blast furnaces in Port Talbot (Wales). Tata has now announced it's replacing these, by an electric arc furnace. This will reduce its Port Talbot work force by more than 2500. Tata claims it's doing this to go 'greener' (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2024/jan/24/unions-accuse-tata-of-hypocrisy-over-port-talbot-closure-green-claims). Blast furnaces produce 'virgin' steel from iron ore and coal. They also emit massive quantities of climate-altering 'greenhouse gases'. Electric arc furnaces conversely recycle 'scrap' steel. They generate, however, markedly fewer emissions. Seems greenish? Tata is, however, simultaneously building a massive new blast furnance in its Kalinganagar industrial complex in Eastern India. Workers there are paid much less and the Indian authorities are very relaxed about carbon dioxide emissions. Tata can then sell its Indian-produced 'virgin' steel to UK companies. The UK will consequently be the only major economytotally relying on imports of this material. Claiming this is a 'green' move seems a tad hypocritical. The Jingye group might well follow suit. Emissions from steel production are a serious problem. They have, however, the same global impact no matter where they are produced. Pumping out the 'greenhouse gases' in India and China, is still going to accelerate planetary heating.

Plants We Used To Use 273. Lungwort

Predictably, Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis) was used to treat tuberculosis and bronchopneumonia. its also been used for asthma; colds; coughs and catarrh. Extracts of this plant are claimed to clear the airways and expel mucus from the lungs.

Plants We Used To Use 272. Lucerne

Lucerne (Medicago sativa) provides important cattle fodder. A concentrate of this plant has also been used as a dietary supplement for folk fighting malnutrition; ischaemia and various digestive tract disorders.

Plants We Used To Use 271. Lovage

Lovage (Levisticum officinale) leaves and stems add an intense celery-like flavour to soups; stews and stocks. This plant's rhizomes were used to make a medicine, claimed to benefit folk with diabetes-generated kidney damage. It was also said to help with indigestion; kidney stones and coughs.