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Archeologists unearth ancient winery in Israel

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winery archeology Israel
Children and adults alike used to drink wine in the Holy Land and from this massive winery just unearthed in Yavne. The site made at least half a million gallons of wine a year. 

Before Islam was rooted in the Middle East the Holy Land and Mohammad forbid alcohol to its followers, Israel was home to all sorts of pagans, then Jews, then Christians. In Christian and Jewish rights and rituals –– then and now –– wine is used for consecrations purposes: for Christians during the mass to turn the body of Jesus into blood; and for Jews who mark the Sabbath and high Holy Days with a glass of wine shared by all at the table.

grapes wine
Grapes from my vine, Jaffa Israel, 2021

So people back then, as it is now, needed vineyards and wineries to produce the wine.

Israeli archeologists are happy to annound unearthing the largest winery from the period of about 1500 years ago. Through this finding, near Yavne, Israelis celebrate how wine was made, and explore its history from an archoelogy site that produced a kind of white wine called Gaza that was most likely consumed locally and shipped south to Egypt and north to Greece. 

Yavne was an important historical site for Jewish scholars. The site was more sophisticated than archeologists would have expected. Remember when we wrote about Elusa? This was one of the rare sites to have revealed its name at the site where it exported wine from Israel. 

The Yavne dig is so special due to its size and the amount of wine they could process every year.

“We found decorative niches in the shape of a conch, which adorned the winepresses, indicate the great wealth of the factory owners. A calculation of the production capacity of these winepresses shows that approximately two million litres of wine were marketed every year, while we should remember that the whole process was conducted manually,” commented Elie Haddad, Liat Nadav-Ziv and Jon Seligman, the directors of the excavation on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority. 

When kids drank wine

The plant includes five magnificent wine presses, warehouses for aging and marketing the wine, kilns for firing the clay amphorae in which the wine was stored, tens of thousands of fragments and intact earthen amphorae (jars), well planned access between the facilities, and more.

Yavne wine press

Drinking wine was very common in ancient times, for children and adults alike. Since the water was not always sterile and or even tasty, wine was also used as a kind of “concentrate” to improve the taste, or as a substitute for drinking water.

Each of the exposed winepresses covered an area of ​​about 225 square metres. Around the treading floor, where the grapes were crushed barefoot to extract the liquid, compartments were built for fermenting the wine, and next to them – two huge octagonal shaped vats for collecting the wine.

Like wine?
Make Pea Pod Wine

Make your own ancient mead

 

 

Chaga mushroom tea, powerful antioxidant in your forest

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chaga mushroom tea guide
Foraging your own chaga is the first step. Expect to spend at least an hour chopping your chaga with an ax or heavy knife. 

Look to the Stella McCartney runway this season and you will figure out that mushrooms and fungus are making it to the mainstream fashion world. The London designer has incorporated fungus as leather and fabric into her clothing line.

Stella is picking up on the sustainability trend worldwide. Mushrooms, like a last frontier in the forest, are gaining credibility as a superfood but also as a sustainable material that can be used to create fabric.

stella mccartney fungus
Stella McCartney on the runway, fashion for the future via the NY Times.

Some foragers, long-lifers living in the forest, neopeasants, or just casual visitors to the forest now find themselves looking for the mysterious fruiting bodies of fungi for food and for super medicines. It’s exhilerating finding mushrooms in the forest and it feels like you hit the jackpot when you find what you are looking for. 

Chaga or king chaga is a fungus that grows as a parasite on the silver birch tree. Some say it’s a parasite but I believe it is forming a long-term symbiotic relationship with the tree. The conk-shaped chaga is irregularly formed and resembles burnt charcoal. It takes years for a chaga to grow and is quite rare. It costs a pretty penny to buy online but with some luck, if you own a forest, you can find and harvest your own chaga. That’s what I did this summer. It was thrilling. 

Chaga is believed to provide enormous anti-inflammatory benefits, helping all sorts of illnesses including cancer. One friend I met in the forest this summer told me that a Neandrethalic man was  defrosted some years ago and in his pocket held two things: cannabis and chaga. 

It’s something I want in my small but growing natural medicine cabinet, along with healing THC and CBD. In fact some CBD providers add a tincture of CBD and chaga together. 

How to forage chaga mushrooms

Look for silver birch trees

A believer in foraging on one’s own land, and with some guidence from my friend Raven, I was lucky to find and harvest a chaga this summer. I hadn’t planned on finding one when on my walk with the kids, but there it appeared at eye height on a medium aged silver birch tree while I was walkeing along a brook with the kids.

With no tools my instincts kicked in and I quickly fuond a palm sized stone which gave the edge I needed to knock the chaga off the silver birch. It came after 3 blows and weighed about 5 pounds. It went into my  mushroom basket.

Some people harvest the chaga off of fallen trees, while others swear by using the fresh stuff, straight from the tea. What’s important, Raven explains is that you dry it within a day or harvesting. I showed up at her house for a positive identification.

It is essential, and critical that you ID mushrooms with a local expert before consuming anything. Mushrooms are tricksters and there are plenty of lookalikes in every family. I take a mushroom book with me when I go out and if something looks interesting I try to find it in the book right away. 

Russula Emetica
Russula Emetica – eating it can make you feel very sick

We got a positive ID and the chaga was chopped and dried over the next days. You can dry it low in a stove, at less than than 150F (70C). But only after it is chopped down into chunks about the size of a blueberry. I started with an ax and then progressed to a machete and over an hour it took to cut up the chaga into chunks I developed a few small blisters. 

Once this is done you need to dry the chaga so it can be stored. You might use a natural solar dryer if there is no chance of rain or overheating and cooking to chaga; or you can use the heat from a woodstove or an electric stove set on low to less than 150F.

How to make chaga tea (ground)

chaga mushroom ground

Individual Cup
Some people like to grind the chaga before use, others use it in small cubes about 1/3 cm big
  1. Add 2 to 3 teaspoons of ground chaga powder per 1 cup (8oz) of water to a tea bag/ball or a small teapot like a Bodum
  2. Boil the water, and then pour it directly over the ground chaga, and into the cup or pot.
  3. Steep for at least 10 to 15 minutes, then remove the tea bag/ball, or steeper, and serve the tea while it is still hot

How to make chaga tea from small cubes

chaga chunks king
King chaga mushroom chunks for tea 
  1. Take about 3 or 4 small 1/2 cm or less cubes of chaga, or chunks, however it’s been chopped and add it to a small or medium-sized pot
  2. Boil on low for about 15 minutes.
  3. Serve hot or cold and drink throughout the day. Makes 4 cups. 
  4. Consider reusing the chaga again

 

The 6 Indispensable Factors to Acknowledge Before Starting a Business

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Road train
Starting a green trucking business? The Road Train can help you get better fuel efficiency. Or maybe you want to invest in an electric fleet? 

Today, almost everyone thinks of starting a business of their own. However, only a handful of people make it every year. Shockingly, around 50% of the small businesses don’t even cross the first five years of their operations. This is because most people are careless about considering a number of factors before starting a business.

When starting a business is concerned, everyone wants to be at the top of the game.  For instance, if an entrepreneur wants to start a trucking business, they won’t even have any idea about the fmcsa biennial update. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of several factors before diving full throttle in the highly competitive business world. Here are some of them:

A Business Idea

Every business is born with an idea. Like with trucking, maybe it’s a road train business that will work. So if you want to outperform the competitors and stand out to the clients, you need to have a stellar idea at your disposal. In other words, you need to think of something that the customers are not aware of. Having that said, not everyone is quickly going to come up with an idea as such. 

Even if you have something intriguing in mind, the chances are that many entrepreneurs might have already thought about it. Yet you can come up with the right way to present it to the world. So if you have an idea that can solve somebody’s problem, you can debut with it.

Demand

Now that you have decided to start your business, the next step will be to study the market and identify the loopholes and trends. How much are your clients willing to pay to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions for instance? After all, you need to ensure the demand for a product or service out there. In simplest terms, you need to answer questions, such as who your customers are? What do you expect from them? What do they expect from you? 

masdar institute, green career fair, green jobs, Middle east, renewable energy, WFES, Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

Make sure to find answers to these questions and conduct a market survey as soon as you can. Furthermore, study the market and see whether or not you can adjust to the business environment.

Knowledge

Once you have the business plan written, you will have to acquire the necessary knowledge and skillset to start it. This will entail indepth research and planning. By the end, you will have to align the available resources with the business goals. Because a business plan is an indepth research itself, it will provide you with an answer to whether or not you should give it a go. 

So when you have the necessary knowledge, you can initiate the business. You can also consider hiring a consultant who will do everything for you. Meanwhile, you will also do research and keep up-to-date with everything.

Startup Costs

Estimating the startup cost should be on the top of the priority list when initiating a new business. After all, money is the lifeblood of any business out there. You will have to calculate the total costs of the business and look for ways to manage them. For example, if you think o setting up a factory, the startup costs will be very high. 

On the contrary, if you decide to start an e-commerce business, you could be starting the business from your very own home. Secondly, once the business is started, you will have to keep on funding it with capital. No wonder budgeting is important, and you must prepare a cash flow.

Competition

Unless you know your competitors, it will be hard to survivin in the market for a long time. However, if your product is a monopoly itself, competition won’t be a big problem. Else, you will have to conduct research and search for your competitors. In other words, you need to study your competitors and see how you can stand out to them. 

You should aim to get the maximum market share. Especially if the demand for your product or service is already huge, you shouldn’t step back from going the extra mile in working hard.

Staff

In simple words, human resources can either make or break your business. With efficient manpower, it will be hard for you to gravitate your business towards success. Having that said, you need to have the most sought-after people in your team, with each of them having sound experience in their respective fields. 

 

5 Tips To Help Your Child Get Over a Cold

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Has your little one felt sniffly lately? If so, he or she may have caught a cold. While you may not be able to prevent your child from getting sick, there are some natural strategies you can implement that could potentially help your child get over the cold faster while preventing the spread of his or her germs.

Procedures To Avoid Spreading a Cold

During cold season, it’s more essential than ever to stock up on baby cold syrup and to try to prevent the spread of the cold. You help keep your child from getting sick and from spreading colds when you:

  • Teach your child to wash his or her hands often or to use hand sanitizer throughout the day
  • Instruct your child to avoid sharing glasses, eating utensils, towels and other personal items with those whom they suspect may be sick
  • Keep your child at home if you think he or she may have caught a cold and help him or her rest and recover before returning to school
  • Encourage your little one to practice healthy habits in public, such as sneezing into his or her elbow instead of hand, staying away from those who may be sick and wearing a face covering when needed

How To Ease Cold Symptoms in Your Child

future of medicine, old fashioned pharmacy shelf
There are plenty of natural ways to help baby heal.

If you’ve already read up on some core facts about the common cold, your next question may be what you can do to ease your child’s cold symptoms. Although common symptoms such as fever, coughing and a stuffy nose may not be fun to deal with, they are, thankfully, treatable. To help your little one feel better right away, you could:

  1. Heat up some herbal tea or milk for your child before bedtime and mix in a teaspoon of honey to help soothe his or her throat and ease any coughing. Always check with a trusted herbalist before you give your baby herbal tea to make sure it’s safe. Children under a certain age should not eat honey.
  2. Keep your child hydrated with warm soups and broths (barley soup is good) – and try our 10 winter soups list for some great starters), teas, water and other healthy liquids throughout the day;
  3. Give your child a sponge bath or a cold compress to help bring down his or her fever;
  4. Make your child’s resting and sleeping environment as comfortable as possible by adjusting the room temperature as needed, installing a humidifier, giving him or her extra pillows or blankets and keeping aromatherapeutic oils handy;
  5. Provide your child with plenty of tissues and help him or her use saline mists or suction bulbs to clear out a stuffy nose.

You might not be able to prevent your child from occasionally catching a cold, but when he or she does come down with the sniffles, you can pull out all the stops to speed up recovery time and help him or her feel better quickly. With these core eco-friendly and natural tips, you’ll be equipped to help your child get healthy again.

The Art of Greener Grass: 5 Ways to Improve Your Lawn’s Environmental Impact

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woman in yellow sweater, sitting on rock
The greenest lawn is no lawn. But if you must have a lawn, here are the ways to make it work in the eco sense.

As climate change becomes a more significant concern, many homeowners question traditional landscaping practices and seek to lessen their environmental impact. While pristine green lawns may not be the greenest for the planet, there’s good news to be had.  

Using the correct type of high-quality seed from retailers like Nature’s Seed can significantly reduce your lawn’s carbon footprint without sacrificing its appearance. By investing in a high-quality grass seed, your yard can work its magic and positively impact the environment by preventing soil erosion and boosting oxygen production.

You can reduce your yard’s climate impact with these five proven ways to grow gorgeous grass with a clear conscience.

Use environmentally-friendly grass seed

Grass seeds from reputable companies are more sustainable and therefore inherently better for the earth. Seed from big box hardware stores contains fillers and toxins, but sustainable grass seed undergoes rigorous cleaning and testing. It’s also sourced carefully and ethically. 

Environmentally friendly grass seed also may require less water and maintenance to thrive, which can save you green in both your wallet and the planet. 

When choosing the right seed for your lawn, consider the benefits of Bermuda grass, which include its drought resistance and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. This warm-season grass thrives in hot climates with minimal water, making it an eco-friendly choice for sustainable landscaping.

Irrigation techniques

Water usage is one of the main ways that lawns detrimentally impact the earth. Deep and infrequent watering encourages more robust root growth, which means that your grass will feed itself rather than needing you to run sprinklers constantly.

In addition, install efficient gutters and invest in rain barrels to catch rainwater that can nurture your grass and flowerbeds. Keep your gutters clear in addition to trying other methods that are appropriate for your region.

Mowing the right way

Mowing matters more than you may think. Generally speaking, the less frequently you mow, the better. Always leave your grass clippings on the lawn to compost and fertilize the soil naturally.

One practical environmentally-friendly tip is to adjust your mower height. Use a higher setting when hot and dry since grass won’t grow as fast and doesn’t need as much mowing to thrive.

Consider switching from gas to an electric-powered mower with rechargeable batteries, in addition to electric trimmers and other lawn equipment. Using these tips, you can cut back on the amount of gasoline and fertilizer you use, both of which can be bad for the environment.

Avoid harmful chemicals and pesticides

Most fertilizers and pesticides are terrible for the environment. Keep in mind that these chemicals don’t stay where you apply them. Plant food and pesticides enter the air and seep into the ground, eventually making their way into drinking water. It’s not just dangerous for the earth, but for your family as well.

There are less damaging and organic products available, but all-natural methods are always preferable. Consult a local horticulturist or native plant society for tips and tricks for pests and conditions specific to your growing region. 

Add other environmentally-friendly features

There are lots of other things you can do to green your yard. For example, you can plant native flowers and other plant species that grow well naturally in your environment. Consider a rock garden or plants that don’t require as much moisture to thrive.

Pay attention to where the rain pools in your yard, and plant a garden there. Consider growing some of your own herbs, tomatoes, or other foods. The key here is to work with your local environment, and not despite it. 

Wrapping it up

Although the climate crisis might seem overwhelming, we can all make small changes that add up to a considerable impact. Growing eco-friendly grass designed for your region is one of those easy swaps with a big payoff for you and the planet.

4 Proven Tips for Creating the Best School from Home Space

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Waldorf  schooling, which is soft gentle schooling natural adapts to homeschooling. If the kids are home most of the day make sure you find ways to get them moving and off the screen doing alternative activities when they don’t need to be learning. 

Experience has taught us valuable lessons in terms of the right homeschool room setup, and we want to share these tips for distance learning with you, whether you are an educator, a distance learner, or simply someone whose kids are participating in school remotely for now.

1. Define the Homeschooling Space

Have a dedicated school from home space and make sure it is comfortable and suitable for learning while keeping unnecessary distractions at bay.

If you ever had to work from home, you are familiar with the challenges of shifting boundaries between the space and time allotted for work and those for your family. With children, all this becomes even more difficult in terms of focus and discipline.

An after-school playdate. The kids are cooking in their restaurant.

Make sure they get plenty of light where they are learning and doing their homework, they have a comfortable chair and desk, and they don’t strain their eyes in front of the screen.

2. Provide Adequate Tools

In-person school supplies are one thing; school from home ones are another. Pen and paper are still needed, of course, but other elements come into play when participating in school remotely. The most vital one: a fast and reliable internet connection!

With all the school interaction taking place online, having an adequate internet plan and equipment is vital for seamless learning. Add into the mix potential work from home scenarios and you will feel how your bandwidth necessities go up.

Other new important IT additions to homeschool supplies would include noise-canceling headphones, antivirus software, and a larger screen.

3. Take Organizing to the Next Level

Whether you can afford to redesign an entire room for remote learning or the small space available only leaves you with a proper-delimited corner, staying organized is key. Your child should learn that early on as it will always come in handy.

Here’s what you can do in a nutshell: Add more shelves, drawers, and storage bins, and assign each one to a subject and label them with removable stickers. Depending on the child’s age, you might also benefit from glass jars, utensil holders, baskets of all sizes, rolling carts, and magazine holders. You can repurpose the latter for holding notebooks, manuals, and other learning materials.

Color-coding can also prove useful, and not only for children, but teachers as well. It is important for the color scheme to be consistent between various supplies pertaining to the same subject. The perk is that this can also be applied to computer folders.

4. Be Open to Your Kids’ Suggestions

In order to make the distance learning experience more pleasant and easy for your children, make sure their individual needs are fulfilled. It is good to have a generic framework to build upon, but it is even more important to adapt it to each child, as there is no such thing as “one size fits all” when it comes to education.

For instance, some children may want an analog clock on the wall in front of their desk, while others may feel better if they had their art and crafts displayed nearby.

Make time to do real arts and crafts while homeschooling. Papermaking is a great activity for kids as there are many parts to the process: they learn to recycle, use their hands and can incorporate magical materials from nature into the mix.

As a bonus, since this teaching/learning experience involves a lot of video calls, you can easily notice how other families have dealt with their remote learning setup at home and get inspired, adapting their best homeschool space ideas to what you have available.

Why men like it cooler

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My son kicks off the covers. Yet my daughter wants a thicker duvet. My husband wants the air conditioner, and I want it off. It seems that men and women really do feel differences in temperature. A new study believes that the answer is evolutionary.

Researchers at Tel Aviv University’s School of Zoology offer a new evolutionary explanation for the familiar scenario in which women bring a sweater into work, while their male counterparts feel comfortable wearing short sleeves in an air-conditioned office. The researchers concluded that this phenomenon is not unique to humans, with many male species of endotherms (birds and mammals) preferring a cooler temperature than the females.

The researchers: “We propose that males and females feel temperature differently. This is a built-in evolutionary difference between the heat-sensing systems of the two sexes, which is related, among other things, to the reproduction process and caring for offspring.”

The study was led by Dr. Eran Levin and Dr. Tali Magory Cohen from the School of Zoology and the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History at Tel Aviv University, Yosef Kiat from the University of Haifa, and Dr. Haggai Sharon, a pain specialist from Tel Aviv University’s Sackler Faculty of Medicine and the Tel Aviv Sourasky Tel Aviv Medical Center (Ichilov Hospital). The article was published in the Journal Global Ecology and Biogeography.

Eran Levin

Dr. Levin and Dr. Magory Cohen say the bottom line is, going back to the human realm, “we can say that this difference in thermal sensation did not come about so that we could argue with our partners over the air conditioning, but rather the opposite: it is meant to make the couple take some distance from each other so that each individual can enjoy some peace and quiet.

Tali Magory Cohen

“The phenomenon can also be linked to sociological phenomena observed in many animals and even in humans, in a mixed environment of females and males: females tend to have much more physical contact between themselves, whereas males maintain more distance and shy away from contact with each other.”

The new study included an in-depth statistical and spatial analysis of the distribution of dozens of bird and bat species living in Israel, along with a comprehensive review of the international research literature on the subject. Dr. Levin, who among other things studies the physiology and behavior of bats, noted in his previous studies that during the breeding season males and females tend to segregate, with the males inhabiting cooler areas.

For example, entire colonies in caves on the slopes of Mount Hermon are composed of only males during the breeding season, while in the warmer area of the Sea of Galilee there are mainly females, who give birth and raise their pups there. It was this phenomenon that aroused his curiosity.

Moreover, a study of the research literature reveals several examples of a similar phenomenon being observed in many species of birds and mammals.

In migratory bird species, males spend the winter in colder areas than females (it should be noted that in birds, the segregation between the sexes takes place outside of the breeding season, since the males participate in the raising of the chicks). Amongst many mammals, even in species that live in pairs or in mixed groups all their lives, the males prefer shade whereas the females prefer sunlight, or the males ascend to the peaks of mountains while the females remain in the valleys.

The reasoning behind the choice of birds and bats for the study is the fact that they fly and are therefore highly mobile, and the researchers hypothesized that the spatial separation between the sexes – sometimes extending to different climatic zones – would be particularly clear in these groups. Israel’s significant climate diversity allowed them to study individual animals of the same species that live in very different climatic conditions.

The findings of the study clearly demonstrated that males prefer a lower temperature than females, and that this preference leads to a separation between the sexes at certain periods during the breeding cycles, when the males and females do not need, and may even interfere, with each other.

Dr. Levin: “Our study has shown that the phenomenon is not unique to humans; among many species of birds and mammals, females prefer a warmer environment than males, and at certain times these preferences cause segregation between the two species.”

Dr. Magory Cohen notes that this difference has a number of evolutionary explanations. First, the separation between males and females reduces competition over resources in the environment, and keeps away males who may be aggressive and endanger the babies. Furthermore, many female mammals must protect their offspring at a stage when they are not yet able to regulate their body temperature on their own, so they developed a preference for a relatively warm climate.

 

4 Surprising Benefits Of CBD Gummies

Physicians like Dr. Alan Shackelford have seen how CBD can treat seizures in children. A wide range of evidence is out suggesting that CBD but be the new goji berry or super-vitamin. 

Cannabidiol (CBD) products are available in a wide range of variants. You’ll find oils, tinctures, capsules, vapes, and edibles. Usually, all these promise the same benefits, but some may be more preferred than others. 

CBD gummies are among some of the products most liked by many consumers. This is because they can be taken discreetly and are easy to use and they are 100% legal where THC products may not be federally in the US. In most cases, these edibles will appear just like gummy candies or vitamins. Therefore, a consumer doesn’t need to worry about hiding them whenever necessary. Also, to consume them, one doesn’t require patches or droppers. Instead, all that’s needed is popping them into the mouth and, then, enjoying the benefits. 

Pros Of CBD Gummies You Might Not Be Aware Of

Besides the merits mentioned above, there are several other advantages of taking CBD gummies. In this article, you’ll find some of the little-known benefits of these products. These might encourage you to switch to these edibles. However, first and foremost, you must ensure that you purchase them from reputable suppliers.

The best way to spot an excellent firm to buy CBD gummies from might be checking for third-party test results on product labels and CBD company websites. Usually, independent laboratories carry out the examinations. These facilities test CBD items to ensure they have the correct CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) amounts and zero impurities, as what manufacturers are claiming on their labels.

Most firms who get good results display such results on their sites or product labels. Therefore, if you a find gummy company offering this information, it could mean that they’re selling genuine and high-quality CBD. So, it might be good to buy their CBD items. 

As mentioned, CBD gummies promise to offer several benefits, which most consumers might not know about. These include: 

  • They Have Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants are substances that assist in slowing down or preventing cell damage caused by free radicals in the body. These harmful molecules are thought to cause cardiovascular illnesses, declined vision, dementia, and diabetes.

It’s believed that CBD gummies contain antioxidant properties. Therefore, when consumed, they could help destroy the free radicals in the body. As a result, they might help prevent diseases, such as those mentioned above. 

  • They’re Not Harsh To The Throat And Lungs

Compared to CBD smokables, gummies are thought to be less irritating to a consumer’s throat and lungs. Also, since they’re chewed, they’re more friendly to those body parts than capsules. Therefore, for patients who experience pain in such areas, gummies might offer better relief without causing irritation or further pain. 

  • May Be More Effective Even In Small Amounts

CBD gummies are also thought to be more effective, even in small amounts. When taking smokables, some beneficial contents may be exhaled when a consumer breathes out. Therefore, it might take more puffs for an individual to start feeling the effects of CBD. 

However, after chewing and swallowing a gummy, the stomach will hold all the product’s contents. Therefore, a consumer might not need to take too many gummies to enjoy the benefits of CBD. You can find them by googling go to dispensary near me now.

  • Might Be More Recommended For Sleep

Usually, the stomach takes hours to digest food. Once it’s broken down, the circulatory system might transport helpful substances, like proteins and vitamins, slowly. As a result, once a person eats, food and nutrients remain in their body for several hours. In the same way, the stomach might take longer to digest cannabidiol gummies fully. Therefore, when one takes these edibles, it might take a while to start feeling the effects. 

sleeping
CBD can help you sleep, say some

However, CBD might stay longer in the body as it travels to various organs once the stomach fully digests the gummies. As a result, a consumer might enjoy hours-long benefits from these edibles. For this reason, CBD gummies might be more recommendable for those who have trouble falling or staying asleep. This is because, since the CBD in gummies will be in the body for several hours, working as they’re supposed to, one remains relaxed for longer, which promotes quality slumber. Also, one stays asleep for an extended duration since CBD is in the body longer. 

Conclusion

Most people might prefer CBD gummies because they’re easy to consume and can be taken discreetly. However, besides these two merits, these edibles have several other advantages that most users might not be aware of. 

In this article, you’ve found four surprising benefits of CBD gummies that might encourage you to switch to them. As provided above, these edibles have antioxidant properties and aren’t harsh to the throat and lungs. In addition, they might be more effective even in small amounts, and may be more recommendable for achieving quality sleep.

 

Kitchens Stewing Up Environmental Trouble? 5 Negative Impacts of Appliances on the Environment 

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dishwasher interior

It may keep your produce and leftovers cool, but is it heating the planet while it does? 

If your refrigerator is an older model, it could very well be harming the environment. Inefficient kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, stoves, and dishwashers can contribute to climate change. 

The good news is that advancements in eco-conscious kitchen appliance packages can save you money while saving the planet.  

If you’ve thought that your last-century kitchen could use a facelift, now’s the perfect time to kill two birds with one stone. By updating your kitchen, you can refresh your interior design, save on your monthly energy bill, and help the environment. If you’re still on the fence about an icebox swap, here are five negative impacts your kitchen appliances could have on the environment. 

Plastic breakdowns in the microwave

Microwaves use electromagnetic radiation to heat your food. Though this small appliance is perfect for reheating leftovers, it can be harmful if you let it break down over time. The metal webbing on the door protects you from radiation, but if your microwave starts falling apart or doesn’t close properly anymore, the waves could leech into your home. 

Additionally, certain types of plastics can leech hormone-altering chemicals into your food if microwaved. Don’t sacrifice your health for convenience; replace any broken-down appliances immediately. 

Energy usage 

Residential energy use accounts for at least twenty percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Aged kitchen appliances aren’t only out of style – they’re also energy and water gluttons that contribute to the world’s climate crisis.

Replacing old energy-hogging appliances can reduce your electricity usage, making a big difference in your energy costs and environmental impact. Choosing an energy-efficient refrigerator and the right size appliances for your household can help lessen your carbon footprint.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can buy an Energy Star-rated appliance for a reduction in your monthly usage. This swap slashes your carbon footprint by 8,200 pounds over five years, which is like driving 9,300 fewer miles in your car.  

Water usage

A standard dishwasher can use over five thousand gallons of water per year, not to mention the electricity needed to heat the water and power the machine.

Luckily, today’s dishwashers are more water and energy-efficient than they were twenty years ago. Energy Star dishwashers must use 4.25 gallons of water or less per cycle, while dishwashers manufactured before the mid-1990s use more than 10 gallons of water each cycle. Updating your dishwasher will save water since newer models use less water than doing dishes by hand. 

Refrigerator coolant and emissions 

The business of keeping things cool may be heating the planet. The cooling industry–everything from refrigerators to air conditioners–is responsible for up to ten percent of global emissions. Though environmental organizations are cracking down on harmful coolant chemicals, the energy and chemical pollutants from coolers are hard to ignore. 

Manufacturing & disposal 

Like any manufacturing industry, appliance manufacturing is responsible for its share of air pollution and carbon emissions. Precious metals used in higher-quality appliances can also cause ethical and environmental concerns depending on how they’re mined. 

The disposal of older appliances lands hundreds of tons of metal in landfills annually. Though eco-friendly swaps are always a good idea, you also shouldn’t replace your devices on a whim, as this contributes to landfill overload. 

Wrap up

Replacing inefficient appliances with an energy-efficient kitchen appliance package is the easiest and most cost-effective way to update your kitchen while reducing your home’s carbon footprint.

Medterra Promotes International MD to CEO

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cannabis oil

It has been revealed that the leading CBD brand, Medterra, has promoted its international MD to CEO. The company recently announced that Gregory Reeder, who was the Managing Direction for International Operations, will take over as Chief Executive Officer, taking over from Jay Hartenbach. It was further announced that Hartenback will still be a key contributor and will be the Chief Innovations Officer as well as Chairman of the Board.

Under the new leadership of Reeder, the company has outlined plans to expand into other areas. It is now looking to expand its CBD business and move into areas such as health and wellness. Reeder has made it clear that he has ambitious plans for this expansion and is looking at solutions for dynamic growth.

Continuing the Success of the Company

Medterra has already enjoyed huge success as a leading CBD brand in the United States, and in four years it has grown to $50 million in annual revenue. The company believes that with the skills, expertise, and experience that Reeder brings to the role of MD, he will be able to steer the company in other directions that will help to further build upon its success.

Mr Hartenbach said, “Throughout his career, Greg has found continual success in accelerating the growth of both well recognized and newer brands. That experience is going to be critical to our efforts to expand as a company. Greg’s success has only continued as he completely reshaped Medterra’s international business. It was clear very early on that all of Medterra would benefit from this level of leadership.”

Reeder became the MD of Medterra International after gaining experience at major health companies including Pfizer and Proctor & Gamble. He has a Ph.D. in chemistry, which he earned at the University and Cincinnati, and he has held executive positions at pharmaceutical companies heading up healthcare, wellness, and even brand development departments.

As a result of his experience, he was seen as the natural choice to head up Medterra as CEO, and officials from the company said that he was well suited to this position given his background. As he takes over as CEO, Reeder has been clear that he has ambitious plans that will enable him to take the company from strength to strength.

More About Medterra

Medterra is one of the leaders in the CBD industry in the United States, offering a wide range of CBD products across 23,000 retail locations across the country. It also has huge numbers of international distribution points and provides internet access to its products for consumers to benefit from. The company prides itself on providing access to CBD products that are safe, effective, and of excellent quality.

With the increased interest and popularity of CBD products, the company has experienced huge growth and success over recent years. With this new leadership, the provider can look forward to further building on its success and excellent reputation as it moves into other areas of health and wellness. 

Is Spain Updating Its Entry Restrictions for Tourists?

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babaa organic cottonSpain, famous for its long, sun-soaked coastlines and architectural wonders, relies heavily on tourism to stimulate its economy. In most years, this recipe is a successful one, as not only Barcelona and Madrid but all corners of the Mediterranean nation attract tens of millions of visitors per year. 

While many European countries can say the same thing, Spain is perhaps unique because of its heavy reliance on making the most, economically speaking, of the summer months. 

It isn’t that there’s not plenty to do during the cooler times of the year, just that Spain’s blend of cuisine, coastline, and calm waters makes it a particularly attractive place to visit during the hotter seasons. 

All of this contributed to the focus by Spanish government officials, who continue to work in close tandem with health advisors towards opening up their borders. The hope was that international tourists would be eligible to enter Spain just in time for the 2021 summer season. 

After a largely lost 2020 due to the pandemic, rolling out an effective vaccination campaign, as well as monitoring the COVID-19 levels of other nations allowed Spain to partially open itself up for vacationers from countries like the U.S. and Canada in June of 2021. 

Now, after a few months of rocky transmission numbers abroad, the Spanish government is revisiting its decision to allow for certain passport holders to open, including those from Canada. 

It is always wise to check with the Spanish embassy in Canada for any advisories or warnings. For now, read on for the most up-to-date information on travel restrictions for tourists wishing to enter Spain.

What Are the Latest Updates For U.S. Travelers to Spain?

The hope for both the Spanish government and for American passport holders is that Spain won’t need to continue to implement mandates restricting access to foreigners. The constant updates to the rules don’t only deter people with current travel plans, but they can also stop others from making future plans. 

Unfortunately, as long as the pandemic continues to rage on, there will be flight cancelations, unforeseen hiccoughs, and travel mandates. 

American travelers were eventually allowed back into Spain after some fifteen months. When the ban was lifted, there were very few restrictions left in place. However, due to the uptick in COVID-19 cases in the United States, the Spanish government has instituted new rules.

Palmerals of Spain
Palmerals of Spain

As of early September, all American passport holders are no longer allowed into Spain. In fact, only those passengers who can show proof that they are two weeks removed from being fully vaccinated will be eligible to cross the Spanish border. 

The reason for this shift in approach comes via recommendations from European health officials who are constantly monitoring transmission rates in each country around the world. 

What Other Passport Holders Are Being Restricted From Spain?

The United States contributes a tremendous number of tourists to Spain each year. With that said, it is hardly the only nation in the world whose citizens want to see the Sagrada Familia or try pintxos in San Sebastian. 

In addition to America, there are five other nations whose citizens European health officials have deemed to currently be high risk. They are North Macedonia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Israel, Lebanon 

Travelers from these other countries will have to wait until the situations in their respective countries improve before they travel to Spain. 

When Might These Latest Restrictions Be Lifted?

Guessing when any government might lift their travel restrictions is difficult. Unless expressly stated, most governments tend to be non-committal when it comes to their plans. The reasoning behind the stock-language updates is due to the difficulty in predicting the movements of the pandemic. 

It was not that long ago that the numbers in the United States were good enough for Spain to allow unvaccinated visitors. Israel was once the poster-child for vaccination plans and now it is on the list of countries whose passport holders can’t visit Spain. 

While restrictions are in place until the end of the month, it remains unclear whether the government will extend them or loosen their restrictions. For now, the best thing to do is to stay informed about the latest updates.

What Are Spain’s Latest COVID Trends?

As Spain continues to update their mandates for foreigners, it is also important for those planning a trip to Spain to understand the latest domestic guidelines inside Spain. 

The Spanish government gives advice to each region but there is a semblance of autonomy that each city enjoys. The good news is that things are heading in the right direction. Masks are no longer required in public and bars and restaurants are open later than they have been in months. 

Hopefully, if these trends continue, more and more visitors will soon be able to enjoy Spain. 

 

The Power of Satellite Imagery In Agriculture & Farming

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Agriculture is transforming with the implementation of modern technologies. Technologies such as GPS and satellite image dissemination allow researchers and farmers to gain more information, monitor and manage agricultural resources. Besides, images provide an opportunity to optimize processes on the farm and increase the efficiency of various farm operations. EOSDA (EOS Data Analytics) and other companies offer solutions based on satellite technologies that allow monitoring the state of crops throughout the growing season. 

Satellite imagery can also be integrated with other innovative solutions, including the Internet of Things. This kind of integration further empowers farmers to practice precision farming. Thus, growers can get more data on the state of their crops. Furthermore, farmers can save resources by applying them only where they are needed and not evenly distributing them.

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What is satellite imagery data? 

Satellites and the images they produce differ from each other, as different companies use them for various purposes. Satellite data is a collection of millions of pixels that are related to distance on Earth. The result is images with different resolutions and time scales. A pixel can display an area from 30 m2 to 1 km2 or even more. The technology is constantly being improved, and soon it will be possible to obtain images close to the resolution of a square centimeter.

The temporal measure of the data is also essential since modern satellites such as Landsat orbit the Earth every 16 days. It means that changes can be assessed every two weeks. Other information products based on satellite data are only available on an annual basis.

Ways how agriculture satellite imagery changes agriculture and farming

Achieving sustainability 

Sustainable resource management is a necessity today. Remote sensing satellites are contributing to more sustainable water use on farms. Satellite data helps to avoid over or under irrigation, improves the quality of agricultural products, and helps to increase yields. It is because farmers can monitor large areas, assess the condition of the soil, and more accurately determine the need for water. Satellite imagery analysis enables farmers to develop an irrigation plan and make it more efficient.

Encouragement of enhanced climate-resilience 

Extreme weather events can have a strong negative impact on crops. With satellite imagery, farmers can be aware of potential threats to plants, including drought, floods, and other weather events, and take timely action to protect crops. Satellite imagery will be beneficial in planning preventive measures and reducing the impact of weather on crop health. In this way, farmers can build resilience in farming practices to climate change.

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Satellite-based crop monitoring 

Monitoring crops using satellite imagery significantly expands the ability of farmers and other participants in the agribusiness, such as auditors. Using the images, auditors can estimate the real value of the land. As for farmers, satellite-based crop monitoring allows them to make better decisions throughout the growing season. In addition, growers have access to historical satellite imagery, which opens the door to identifying climate patterns and allows them to plan field activities to increase productivity. Taking into account the data obtained earlier also makes it possible to create historical maps of the fields, and as a result, farmers can determine which methods are most effective.

Powering precision agriculture practices

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Precision farming contributes to the efficient and rational use of resources. In addition, this practice implies significant savings in seeds, fertilizers, water, and pesticides, thereby increasing the productivity of farms. The integration of satellite imagery with other innovative technologies, including IoT and drones, allows you to monitor soil conditions, manage water resources, and obtain accurate information for fertilization. And when combined with agricultural robots, satellite imagery can also help improve planting function.

Fortifying farm planning  

Satellite images allow you to monitor, control and manage the state of crops, soil, protect crops from extreme weather conditions, as well as diseases, pests, and other threats. Integrating satellite imagery with other technologies can also detect stress, soil moisture, and nutrient saturation. In this way, businesses can make accurate estimates of yields and improve purchasing and storage plans. The data obtained can also be used by insurance agents and companies to assess future crop conditions better.

Final thoughts 

Satellite imagery significantly expands the capabilities of farmers and other participants in agribusiness. Technology continues to evolve and improve, allowing you to capture images of the best quality. Using data from imagery and integrating it with other innovative technologies can save resources, respond to changes and threats on time, increase farm yields, and increase profits. At the same time, more accurate and rational use of resources also contributes to improving the sustainability of the agricultural sector.

 

What To Look For While Selecting Professional Airport Shuttle Services

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Nile Taxi, Nile River, traffic, water taxi, Cairo, EgyptAfter getting off a tiring flight, no one wishes to look for cabs. Imagine finding a taxi waiting for you right when you get off your flight. You can have just that with a professional airport shuttle service. These services make sure that you are picked up on time and dropped at your desired location.

But how do you find a professional yet comfortable airport shuttle service? Don’t worry we are here to help you determine how you can select the right service for you. Below is a list of things you can look for.

Reviews

You will need to contact a firm for these services before you get off your flight. However, you cannot choose just anyone as the firm you choose determines how comfortable your ride will be. To ensure your safety as well as comfort, do a little bit of research about the firm. Make sure you read reviews other customers have left.

Do not read reviews off of the firm’s site only, go beyond that as several firms filter the bad reviews out. If you find anything even remotely about a service, do not appoint them for the task. Also, make sure you read the safety section of the firm’s website carefully.

Vehicle type and size

The type of vehicle you will need depends upon your luggage and whether you are a single passenger or there is a group. Another fact that determines the type of vehicle is the level of comfort you are going for. For instance, if you are a single passenger, you would most probably go for a car. Along with that, you will also need to decide whether you want to go in regular cars or a limo. 

Therefore, you should think about these things beforehand. If you are traveling with a large company, you can go for a minivan or maybe two or three cars. You also need to keep in mind that your vehicle size and type will affect the cost.

Cost

While the prospect of arriving at your location in an SUV sounds thrilling, are you ready to pay for it? Cost is an important aspect of finding the right service for you. Most people do not wish to go for extravagant vehicles for shuttle services as it can cost a lot. 

You also need to check whether the firm you have chosen provides services at a reasonable rate. One way to figure that out is to compare the price with their competitors. Always remember to check whether the price you are paying matches up to the quality of the service or not.

Confirmation

Once you have found the service which is right for you, you can go ahead and book your services. Once that is done, you will receive some sort of confirmation. If you don’t, you should ask for it. If there is no such confirmation, the firm can deny you their services as you have no proof of it.

So, make sure you receive a confirmation email or message, especially if you are paying for the service in advance.

To know more about how to book a taxi shuttle service, click here.

The Role of Business in Green Future 

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Lush green grass surrounding a pond or an eco dome.

Going green is proving to be a profitable transformation for many companies. A green future is the way to go. Read on to find out why.

The Role of Business in a Green Future

Foreword

Environmental awareness has caused significant change to the way we do business. Global markets have had to adapt rapidly, and many companies are implementing green policies as the best solution. Whether it’s professional cleaning services, sustainable construction, or any field in general, going green has resulted in demonstrable change and positive outcomes for a wide range of industries.

Consumers place value on the adoption of eco-focused strategies. Demonstrating environmental responsibility is steadily becoming a critical component to success in any market. By providing new and effective ways of doing business, eco-initiatives allow forward-thinking companies to stay ahead of various social changes. We’ve put together the benefits of going green as well as current and potential obstacles to doing so.

Benefits

Innovations in socio-economic progress form the backbone of modern societal progression. These innovations prioritise environmental awareness as a driving factor in decision-making for long-term operational success. Many governments and regulatory bodies are now using eco-sustainability as a core factor in growth policies. Being able to focus on economic, social, and environmental issues allows businesses to stay ahead of these changes, consequently creating sustainable future markets.

Tax breaks

From emission allowances to tax incentives, governmental policy changes provide several benefits to those going green. Though some claim these changes are not enough, they nonetheless represent positive steps towards a large-scale solution. Some states already provide tax benefits for companies who can show prioritisation of nature over numbers. 

Florida has statewide initiatives for renewable energy; providing sales tax exemptions, grant incentives, and tax rebates. These initiatives provide genuine motivation for companies to remain eco-friendly and transparent. The IRS also offers various tax benefits to green companies. For example, the use of hybrid fleets can provide federal tax credit bonuses, and businesses that use renewable energy are able to receive tax breaks of up to 30%.

Waste reduction

Reducing waste production can cut expenses and studies have shown that operational costs decrease with optimised systems of operation. Conservation of other utilities also creates efficiency. Recycling can also recoup expenses, and upcycling ensures that materials are used with maximum efficiency and minimum waste.

A simple way to reduce waste is to optimise energy use. For example, office lights being turned off at night can significantly reduce utility bills. Similarly, water conservation can also free up some capital. These changes may seem small at first, but over time can add up to significant savings. Another example of waste reduction is paperless administration. Using cloud technology to coordinate tasks can replace the costly expense of pen-and-paper bookkeeping. 

Healthy HR

Due to the enforced adoption of remote work, many businesses have discovered the advantages of isolation. Despite this increased adoption being caused by necessity, many industries have made the decision to continue such practices post-lockdown. Workers save on travel costs and companies save on maintenance, supplies, and even office rental.

Apart from company-wide benefits, a green office improves health and wellness for employees. Eco-friendly office supplies can avoid aggravating costly health issues such as respiratory conditions, for example, and buildings with more natural lighting are even shown to improve general work ethic. Providing a sustainable environment allows for the maximisation of human resources – subsequently increasing productivity rates.

Strong PR

Consumers are gravitating towards sustainable business solutions, and caring for the environment can give any organisation a competitive edge. Eco-friendly companies convey strong brand values and company culture, provided that eco-initiatives are well-planned and executed. 

Corporate culture and brand image are important tools that need to be cultivated carefully. Reputation and transparency can sustain a business in tough times, and create a strong platform for any prospective pioneer. Modern-day markets require a strong image, and long-term stability satisfies investors and stakeholders.

Optimal production

As previously mentioned, renewable energy-based systems such as lighting, heating, and cooling can potentially cut costs by a surprising margin. Sustainability can ease logistical expenses through ICT supply chain management. Analyses of global production chains have shown an increased need for centralised supply lines. Evidently, investing in green energy leads to a variety of cost-saving technologies.

A Mac User’s Guide to Becoming Eco-Friendlier

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eco mac

Apple is a top-rated brand globally and is a champion for green technology. It strives to manufacture carbon-neutral products that are friendly to the environment. Apple plans to run its products and services on clean energy from the design phase to the usage.

Thus, Mac users can also adopt an eco-friendly way when it comes to using their Apple machines. You might be worrying about Malware and new updates while wasting energy. So, if you encounter any issue, you must clear it before it affects the system performance. Thus, it is essential to become aware of how you use your Mac every day. 

Our article highlights practical and easy methods users can embrace to reduce energy consumption and become eco-friendly. Follow the insights below and go green as a Mac user.

Save Energy

Even if you have free access to a power source, it does not mean that you leave your Mac with a bright screen and longer sleeping time. Make it a habit to activate the energy-saver feature under the system preferences. Your Mac has inbuilt features that save energy by performing specific actions that control inactive machines. For instance, you can set up the sleep mode after a few minutes of inactivity, or the system can switch off the display. Saving energy is a paramount aspect that helps you to become an eco-friendly Mac user.

Unplug Devices When Not In Use

Most users have many other devices plugged into their Mac. From external hard disks to USB flash drives or other tech components. One way of saving energy is to unplug the devices when you are using them. Make sure you use the device when you need to without leaving it on the machine.

Charge Your Mac Efficiently 

Many individuals forget to charge their machines fully, and thus, they end up plugging their Mac on the power source all the time. To avoid this habit, ensure you charge your laptop to full charge, unplug and use it until you drain off the charge.

Energy Saver Apps

Today, there are numerous energy-saving applications that Mac users can install on their machines. For instance, Lights Out and Power Manager are examples of energy saver apps with advanced features that help you save your Mac’s energy for an extended period. Therefore, you can research more and find one that works well with your device. 

Purchase New Keyboard and Mice

Since Apple is going green, it is investing in new environment-friendly products. Therefore, you can purchase new keyboards and mice that support the green technology. Moreover, avoid using CDs since they are not safe for the environment.  

Use The New Mac Monitor 

Mac users who still have the monitors with cathode-ray tubes should get new LCD monitors. Old monitors consume more energy; but, the new monitors conserve power, which helps users become eco-friendly. 

Buy A New Printer 

Old devices are energy inefficient and go against the green technology. Thus, Mac users should get new printers with advanced features that support the environment. Apart from consuming less energy, you can print your documents back-to-back and cut down on papers by a more significant percentage.

Moreover, the new models optimize the ink usage, and the availability of an EcoFont makes it friendly to the environment.

Reduce Computer Usage

Unless you have to use your computer, make a point of taking long breaks and embracing time-off away from electronic devices. You will save power and improve your health and wellness. Moreover, the environment will also be safe when you reduce computer usage.

Eco-Friendliness and Heavy Computer Use Are Combinable 

Mac users should implement the above tips to help them become more eco-friendlier. With Apple at the forefront in campaigning for clean energy, each user’s responsibility is to support the cause and embrace eco-friendly Mac usage.