Page 93 – Green Prophet

Making DIY Sugar Wax!

Beauty

Ariel Weil

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July 23, 2023

sugaring is an ecological way for shaving your legs — Sugaring is an ecological way for shaving your legs

Save money and make yourself sugar wax at home with only three ingredients. All you need is granulated white sugar, water, and lemon juice. Sugar wax is less painful than traditional hot waxing because it does not remove hair follicles. Sugar wax is an excellent alternative for people with sensitive skin.

My roommates and I decided to try sugar waxing, and to our delight, we successfully pulled it off using ingredients readily available in our apartment. The experience turned out to be enjoyable and surprisingly efficient. In just 30 minutes, we completed the entire process, saving both time and money compared to visiting a salon.

Not only was the home sugar waxing less painful than a salon treatment, but it also left our skin feeling incredibly smooth and with a delightful fragrance. Overall, it was a fantastic and rewarding experience that we would definitely repeat in the future.

Sugar wax originates in the Middle East and is fully biodegradable ! Though the exact origin of sugaring is hard to determine, most historians concur that this ancient hair removal method was already in use during the old civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece around 1900 BCE.

It was known as “sukkar” in the Middle East and “moun” in Persia. Since sugar was limited to the regions near Persia until 1,000 after CE honey served as the primary sugaring agent to create the waxing paste during that era.

Is sugar wax better than regular waxing?

Sugar wax is made of ingredients that break down easily when thrown away. Synthetic waxes are not biodegradable and are more harmful to the environment.

Sugar wax can be made at home and uses inexpensive and common home ingredients instead of visiting a salon or using cosmetic waxing kits found at the store.

Ingredients

1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
⅛ cup (30 ml) lemon juice
⅛ cup (30 ml) warm water

Making your sugar wax

Put a medium-sized pot on your stove and add white sugar, lemon juice, and warm water.

Mix frequently and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Turn the heat down to medium once the mix is boiling and bubbling. If the blend keeps bubbling, turn it down to low heat.

When the mix becomes golden brown, remove the pot from the stove. Continue to mix the golden brown mix until it becomes smooth and has a deep brown color.

The consistency should resemble hot syrup; if it appears thick, like honey, it must be heated for longer.

Pour the mix into a bowl or a jar and let it cool for 30 minutes. Sugar wax should be used at room temperature, unlike traditional hot wax.

Applying your sugar wax

Scoop a small amount of warm wax with your fingers and roll it into a ball.

Put the wax onto a small skin area opposite to hair growth. Spread the wax to create a layer that is about 0.6 cm thick. Work on small sections, limiting their length and width to just a few inches.

Pull!

Swiftly remove the wax in the opposite direction of hair growth, similar to pulling off a bandage. Make it quick to limit the pain. There is an option to apply paper strips on top of the wax to smooth it out and pull it off.

Apply the wax in small sections until finished.

All leftover mix can be refrigerated and used at a later time. Use it within 4 to 5 weeks.

Prepping your skin for sugar wax

Wash your skin with soap and water and use warm water to open your pores and to risk your chance of infection
Exfoliate up to two days before waxing to make the sugar wax stick better
Moisturize the night before, not the day off, because you want to wax with clean skin

Post-wax aftercare

Moisturizer with natural oils, body butter, or serum to keep your skin soft and avoid ingrown hairs
Wait two days to exfoliate again to prevent ingrown hairs and continue to do so every 2-3 days
Do not use products that might irritate your skin

Risks of sugaring

Sugaring when done correctly does not have a lot of risks. People who have sunburns in areas they want to wax or have moles, warts, or varicose veins in places they want to wax should avoid waxing in total. Also people with preexisting skin conditions should speak with a doctor before sugaring.

Any type of waxing presents risk of side effects such as It is also worth noting that any form of waxing can cause side effects such as:

Ingrown hairs: When hair grows back and curls back into the skin, causing raised and itchy spots.

Folliculitis: Inflammation in hair follicles, leading to tender bumps on the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows, either on the surface or deep within.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin after an injury. Even though sugar waxing is gentler, it can still cause some skin trauma, resulting in inflammation and possible discoloration. People with darker skin tones are more likely to experience this.

Infection: If sugar waxing is done incorrectly or with poor hygiene of the waxing tools and area, it can lead to skin irritation and infection.

10 ways to lower your personal carbon footprint

Danielle Meyers

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July 23, 2023

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Nana Estate winery in Israel — Take a wine tour. It’s sustainable!

As you probably have heard, climate change and global temperatures are on the rise. Our carbon sinks like the forests in Canada are burning and there is no time to put this beside us. The human-induced temperature change from the burning of fossil fuels has been heating the planet at an alarming rate.

The latest report by the IPCC has declared the expected rise in global temperatures will be 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Each decade, temperatures have been increasing by 0.08°C since 1880. These catastrophic measurements are only getting worse and can be reflected in society’s carbon footprint.

Your carbon footprint is measured by the amount of carbon dioxide your everyday life emits into the atmosphere. Actions like eating meat, driving cars, and using a lot of water and electricity increase your carbon footprint. Luckily, there are many ways to reduce our carbon footprint and take hold of climate change.

Today, I will share with you 10 tips that you can do today to reduce your carbon footprint.

Take the bus, walk, bike, skate or scooter

This one is especially easy if you live in a city. In Tel Aviv, using public transportation is also the easiest way to get around. The bus system is extremely convenient and buses leave from so many spots every couple of minutes. There are also many apps that you can download to easily find out where the buses are, how long it will take and it will map out your entire trip. In addition, Middle East cities like Istanbul and Tel Aviv are walkable cities and should be taken advantage of.

Unless it is in the midst of summer, when the weather is nice, walking is a great way of getting around and is a great way to get in some exercise. Another cool feature of Tel Aviv is the scooters that can be found all throughout the city. Tel Aviv is designed for bikes and scooters, with lanes everywhere designated only for users. They are eco-friendly, easy to use, and go fast, so you can always count on one to get you places.

Try going vegan for a day

VioLife 100% vegan mac and cheese — 100% vegan mac and cheese

Have you ever tried to go vegan? Going vegan is pretty easy now a day, and is definitely something everyone should try if they haven’t. Even just for one day, going vegan cannot hurt you. In fact, going vegan is good for you because it promotes a healthier diet full of fruits and vegetables.

According to a study done by the University of Oxford, going vegan can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 73 percent. Even if you are a big meat person, there are tons of alternatives to meat that taste similar to real meat that can be picked up at your local grocery store.

Turn off the lights before heading out

This one is so simple yet so many people forget to do it. Turning off lights, appliances, and AC units before heading out for the day is extremely important when trying to reduce your carbon footprint. In Israel, electricity generation is responsible for 53 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore turning off lights will vastly reduce the need for electricity generation until we can switch to electricity generation primarily from renewable sources. It also reduces your electricity bill, and according to The Department of Energy can reduce your electricity bill by $10 a month.

Use a reusable water bottle, don’t buy a plastic one

This one I am proud to say I greatly take part in. I have probably bought 3 plastic water bottles this entire year. I carry my reusable water with me everywhere I go. I personally use a Hydro Flask, which carries 32 fl oz of water and has a straw and a handle to carry it, but any reusable bottle will do. I also suggest getting one that is insulated so that your water can stay cool in the heat of the summer. Especially living in Israel, it is convenient to carry around a reusable water bottle because it is safe to drink the tap water.

Cook and pack your lunch for the day

Tebha can save your life. This Libyan dish was prepared by Mia Schem as a way to keep the Hamas terrorists keeping her in Gaza both calm and happy. — Tebha can save your life. This Libyan dish was prepared by Mia Schem. It’s a one-pot tbeha dish that can feed you for days.

Cooking from home is not only better for the environment, but is also typically better for you. This way you know what you are consuming and don’t risk consuming things that were badly sourced. Pick up some reusable containers or thermos and pack your lunches for the day. This reduces the amount of waste that is generated from eating out and it also saves you money.

Shop locally

Hila Gadidi, spice shop Levinsky Market — It’s rare for a Middle East spice market to be women-owned and run. But this Persian woman defies market logic in Tel Aviv. Meet the spice witch of Tel Aviv at Tavlinsky.

This one is one that people often forget about and how much better it is overall. Instead of driving a farther commute to a large supermarket, see if there are local farmers’ markets in your area. Not only do farmers’ markets have higher-quality produce, but they are also fun to check out and are locally sourced. Many stands at farmers’ markets are also small businesses, so it’s always good to support them. F

or clothing shopping, try checking out your local thrift store. Buying online or in large chain stores in shopping malls is fast fashion and is very bad for the environment. Thrift stores often have very unique items and are better for the environment because it is used clothing and typically at a much lower price.

Go through old clothes and donate them

A fun activity you can do today if you have some free time is to go through your closet and pick out things you no longer need. I’m sure there are tons of items in your closet that you no longer wear and have forgotten about. Instead of just throwing them away, find your closest donation site and donate them to people who need it. You can even upcycle your clothes if you’re into fashion and create it into something new. You can also try selling your old clothes online or having garage sales.

Hang your clothes on the drying rack

instanbul clotheslines — A clothesline in Istanbul, a city known for its second hand clothing shops

Did you know that a dryer can generate 2 to 6 kilowatts of electricity per hour? This is a massive amount of electricity and can be avoided by using a drying rack. It is also better for your clothes as dryers often shrink your clothes and is bad for the fabric.

Take a shorter shower (together?)

Try taking a shorter shower today. The average American uses 17.2 gallons of water in an eight-minute shower. You should look into buying a low-flow showerhead or a filtered showerhead to reduce pollutants to your skin and body.

Also, stop taking baths. Not only is it unsanitary, but it also wastes a massive amount of water. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a full bathtub requires about 70 gallons of water. Save more water by not shaving – try growing a unibrow or your leg hair out for Januhairy.

Take the stairs

Lastly, if you are able, take the stairs. Especially if you live on the second, third, or fourth floor, it is better to take the stairs. The elevators go up and down all day long, constantly wasting tons of electricity. Taking the stairs is quick, good exercise, and safer. Take the stairs because there is always the chance of getting stuck in an elevator.

4 Fun Crafts to Reduce Waste

Act
Design

Danielle Meyers

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July 23, 2023

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Did you know that humans produce 2.6 trillion pounds of trash per year? Waste is one of the many significant problems that is damaging our environment. Pollution, whether it’s in the air, water, or soil, each pollution holds an equal and tremendous hazard to people, land, animals, and the entire ecosystem. While air and water pollution are more difficult for an individual to control, the daily garbage waste that an individual creates is easier to control. While recycling, not using plastic, and composting are great ways to help reduce waste, it is not incentivizing enough for all people. Therefore, I will tell you some ways in which you can reduce your waste, but in a fun way.

Repurpose old bottles and cans

How often are you constantly discarding your used toiletry bottles? Make use of your old, shampoo, conditioner, or any bottle and cut the top off and use it for anything. There are so many things that just lay around without a place and this is an easy and effective way to organize your items. You can also paint and decorate the bottles after you cut the top off. Keep your pens, makeup brushes, or cooking utensils in these and you will feel much more organized in an environmentally friendly way.

Candles from old jars

Making candles is super easy and always looks great. All you need is a wick, wax, and some scissors. Take your old jar and stick the wick to the bottle of the jar with a piece of tape.

CreatCreaMelt wax on the stove and then pour it into the jar, making sure to hold up the top of the wick. Fill it to the top keeping some of the wick above and that’s it! You can even add some fragrance and essential oils to the melted wax if you like a scented candle. Another easy one is the orange peel candle.

https://www.greenprophet.com/2016/10/the-orange-peel-candle-a-how-to-guide/

Vase from plastic or glass bottle

This one is a great alternative to buying a vase, is good for the environment, and can be created into however you’d like it. Buy a bunch of colorful gems and decorate the outside of the bottle, or paint the bottle with fun designs and artwork. However you like your art to be, do it on a bottle. Then, cut the top of the bottle off, or leave it as is and put some flowers in it. Or how about making a mini vase you can wear with a tiny boutonniere.

CD art

Have a ton of old CDs just lying around? Instead of throwing them out, make some fun art out of them. Just grab a bunch of acrylic markers or paint and get creative!

Oil drilling near the Great Amazon Reef System would wipe out mangroves

Energy

Karin Kloosterman

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July 23, 2023

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Oil drilling near the Great Amazon Reef System would wipe out mangroves

The world is up in arms about the new frontier in mining – deep sea mining for minerals like lithium and gold from virgin seafloors around the world. Prospectors say that the growth of electric cars has left us no choice as the batteries need lithium and other rare metals to function. But mining for oil at sea has been ongoing for decades. Offshore drilling began in America in the 1880s and the damage of oil exploration at sea is only too well known after great oil spills.

Now a Brazilian petrochemical company called Petrobras wants to drill exploratory oil wells in the ocean near the mouth of the Amazon. Scientists worry if the plan gets approved, inevitable oil leaks could damage nearby ecosystems, including a vast reef system and the second-largest mangrove forest in the world. Little is known about the reef, so “a comprehensive evaluation of the risks from oil and gas exploitation is currently impossible”, says marine ecologist Rodrigo de Moura in a new Nature article.

His colleague concurs: “There’s a palpable risk of an oil spill if activities proceed — the fact it is an exploratory well for studying the region’s potential for deep-sea oil doesn’t exempt it from accidents,” says Carlos Rezende, a marine biologist at the State University of Northern Rio de Janeiro in Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil.

In defense, Petrobras said it will not be endangering delicate ecosystems, “there is no record of any nearby conservation units, nor is it located near rivers, lakes, floodplains or reef systems” they wrote, but the scientists familiar with the region know that the Great Amazon Reef System is only about 40 miles away and any oil spill or leakage will easily travel that distance.

Oil prospecting: Map showing the location of a possible exploratory oil well just beyond the Great Amazon Reef System. — Source: Nature

Studies suggest that the reef that the reef somewhere between 9,500 and 56,000 square kilometers across the mouth of the Amazon River. When it was first described by scientists in the 1970s, the researchers then did not observe any impressive range of biodiversity. But recent studies found an ecosystem with corals, sponges and fish.

“It is huge, and it is sensitive,” says Ronaldo Francini-Filho, a marine ecosystems researcher at the University of São Paulo in Brazil. “And we don’t know even 5% of what’s down there.”

Brazil has other megaprojects in the Amazon region that are under debate including the repaving of a highway that would pass through a preserved rainforest, the construction of a major railway for grain transport and the renewal of a giant hydroelectric dam’s license. Countries in South America were easy to exploit in the past but with environmental awakening and the understanding of a country’s need to protect their assets, citizens are expecting more from their leaders who will need to make tough decisions.

What is a Mass Tort or Class Action Lawsuit?

Business

Bhok Thompson

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July 21, 2023

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What is a Mass Tort or Class Action Lawsuit?

Tesla solar roof — Tesla customers file a class action suit against this renewable energy and EV company

Are the legal jargons “mass tort” and “class action lawsuit” leaving you scratching your head every time they pop up in the news? This article is your trusty compass navigating through the intricate maze of these intimidating legal terms. By the time you finish reading, you won’t just be another spectator in discussions around these topics. Instead, you’ll be at the forefront of the latest news on mass torts and class action lawsuits

This knowledge won’t just demystify these legal constructs for you but also empower you to meaningfully contribute to discussions that often shape our societal narratives. After all, these legal terms aren’t just lawyer talk; they touch our lives in genuine ways, often determining the rights and protections we enjoy as consumers. So, isn’t it time we took the reins and began understanding these ourselves? Let’s dive in, brave this legal storm together, and emerge on the other side informed, aware, and ready to engage with the world around us more thoughtfully and insightfully.

Decoding Mass Torts

First up, let’s tackle the term “mass tort.” Suppose you bought a popular snack and found it contained harmful ingredients. Now, picture hundreds or thousands of others sharing the same unfortunate experience. Each of these affected individuals decides to sue the snack manufacturer. This collective legal action is known as a mass tort.

To simplify, a mass tort is when a large group of people takes single or multiple companies to court. It typically happens when many people get injured or suffer losses due to a product, medicine, or disaster caused by a company. The interesting part of a mass tort is that each person files their own unique claim based on their specific damages.

Grasping Class Action Lawsuits

Class action lawsuits have a bit in common with mass torts. Going back to our snack scenario, this time, instead of everyone suing individually, one person or a small group sues on behalf of everyone affected. This group lawsuit is what we call a class action.

A class action lawsuit is when an individual or group stands up for a larger group, all having suffered similar harm or losses. It’s different from mass torts because, in class actions, all the claims are combined into one big lawsuit. The outcome of a class action lawsuit affects all the ‘class members.’

Spotting the Differences Between Mass Tort and Class Action Lawsuits

So, you might be thinking, “Aren’t mass torts and class action lawsuits the same?” While they appear similar to many plaintiffs and a few defendants, there are key differences. Each person has a unique claim in a mass tort and gets their own court decision. On the other hand, in a class action lawsuit, one court decision affects all the class members.

The Role of Mass Torts and Class Action Lawsuits

You might wonder why you should care about mass torts and class action lawsuits. These legal actions play a crucial role in society. They help balance power between everyday people and big corporations. It’s pretty intimidating to think about taking on a large company by yourself, right? Now, imagine standing together with hundreds or thousands of others, all seeking justice. Feels more manageable, doesn’t it?

Additionally, mass torts and class action lawsuits (like the $6 million lawsuit Tesla customers filed against solar roof price hikes in 2021) hold corporations accountable for their actions. They discourage unethical practices and push companies to prioritize consumer rights and safety.

Tesla Y, 2024 makes a decent, sustainable EV

Keeping Tabs on Mass Torts and Class Action Lawsuits

As savvy consumers, it’s crucial that we keep our fingers on the pulse of the latest developments in the realm of mass torts and class action lawsuits. Why should this matter to us? The answer is simple – knowledge equates to power. By staying informed, we gain a profound understanding of our rights and the legal options we can explore should we fall victim to a company’s misdeeds. The next time a headline on a mass tort or class action lawsuit catches your eye, you’ll delve deeper than the catchy title. You’ll be able to comprehend its true significance and the ripple effect it might create.

In closing, mass torts and class action lawsuits might seem like a labyrinth at first glance, but they’re, in fact, essential armor in our legal arsenal that shield consumers. Whether we’re talking about a mass tort or a class action lawsuit, the end goal remains unaltered – to bring justice to those who’ve been wronged. Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, you can confidently navigate the latest news on mass torts and class action lawsuits, engage in meaningful discussions, and perhaps even spread the wisdom to others!

Creating a Private and Environmentally Friendly Garden Oasis

Gardening

Bhok Thompson

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July 20, 2023

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Creating a Private and Environmentally Friendly Garden Oasis

garden office, seat waiting for you — A room of one’s own, a little office, pottery studio, or granny flat. Building a tiny home in your garden might be a better eco investment that renting a whole new space.

In today’s busy world, our gardens have become sanctuaries where we seek solace, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Privacy is an essential aspect of any garden, allowing us to enjoy these outdoor spaces without prying eyes. However, striking a balance between privacy and environmental friendliness can be a challenge. In this blog, we’ll explore how you can create a private garden oasis while being mindful of the environment.

The team from Outdoor Fountain Pros understands the essence of blending privacy with eco-friendly design solutions. By incorporating natural elements like water features and greenery, they help homeowners create serene, private spaces without compromising sustainability.

The Importance of Privacy in Your Garden

Imagine stepping into your garden, surrounded by lush greenery, with no worries about neighbours or passersby peering in. Privacy is essential for creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. It allows you to truly immerse yourself in nature, practice yoga, read a book, or simply enjoy a cup of tea without any distractions.

The Challenge of Balancing Privacy and Eco-friendliness

While privacy is important, it can sometimes come at the cost of the environment. Traditional privacy solutions, such as tall fences or concrete walls, may block out prying eyes but can be visually unappealing and harm the ecosystem. Chemical-based treatments or non-recyclable materials used in these structures can have a negative impact on the environment.

Natural Privacy Solutions for an Eco-friendly Garden

Planting a Hedgerow

One of the most effective and environmentally friendly ways to create privacy in your garden is by planting a hedgerow. Choose the emerald green arborvitae, a beautiful evergreen shrub that provides excellent coverage and a vibrant touch to your landscape. These low-maintenance plants are known for their dense foliage, making them ideal for privacy screens. Ensure proper spacing when planting the arborvitae to allow them room to grow and thrive.

Vertical Gardening with Climbing Plants

Another fantastic way to add privacy and greenery to your garden is through vertical gardening with climbing plants. Install trellises, pergolas, or fences and train climbing plants such as jasmine, clematis, or ivy to grow along these structures. Not only will these plants provide a natural screen, but they’ll also add beauty, and fragrance, and attract pollinators to your garden.

Living Walls and Green Screens

Living walls, also known as green walls, are a visually stunning solution for both privacy and environmental friendliness. These vertical gardens are created by attaching planters or pockets to a wall and filling them with a variety of plants. The plants act as a living screen, adding privacy while improving air quality and biodiversity in your garden.

Bamboo for Privacy and Sustainability

green design, sustainable design, eco-design, bamboo, Iran, Raistudio, architecture, renewable materials — Bamboo Dome by Raistudio. This material can do so much. It is flexible and strong.

Bamboo is a versatile and fast-growing plant that can be an excellent choice for privacy and sustainability. Opt for clumping bamboo species to avoid invasive spread. Use bamboo screens or plant bamboo in strategic locations to create a natural barrier. Bamboo is a renewable resource that grows quickly and can be harvested for various purposes, making it an eco-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

Creating a private garden that is also environmentally friendly is not only possible but also rewarding. By embracing natural solutions such as hedgerows, vertical gardening, living walls, and sustainable plants like bamboo, you can strike the perfect balance between privacy and eco-friendliness. Let your garden become a haven where you can relax, unwind, and connect with nature, all while being mindful of the environment.

Does It Cost More To Insure Electric Vehicles

Bhok Thompson

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July 20, 2023

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Rivian motors electric truck lithium batteries, white double cab — Electric cars will be saving thousands on fuel. But expect more to insure them. This is a Rivian electric truck.

With concerns about the sustainability of fossil fuels rising and a growing trend toward “greener” technologies, electric vehicles (EVs) have edged further into the forefront. The potential benefits of EVs are numerous –but if you’re considering making your next vehicle purchase an EV, you should know you may end up paying more in insurance premiums. We’ll delve into why exactly this is and what you can do about it.

Benefits of Driving an Electric Vehicle

First, let’s take a quick look at the perks of going electric, particularly those that might offset the additional insurance costs.

The most significant advantage when it comes to money is fuel efficiency: electric cars are much more fuel-efficient than their gasoline-burning counterparts. Even when the consumption rate fails to meet the promises of car manufacturers, the numbers are still significantly better than those of a gas-burning engine. Better energy efficiency means lower fuel bills.

Electric vehicles also tend to have a lower maintenance cost than more traditional vehicles. They have fewer components that are prone to wear and tear, reducing the frequency of necessary repairs. The regenerative braking systems present in many EVs lengthen the lifespan of the car’s brake pads, further bringing down maintenance costs.

Tax incentives and insurance discounts are other good reasons to invest in an electric vehicle. Many insurance companies offer discounts for green vehicles, including EVs and hybrids. The government has also been known to provide tax incentives in order to further encourage the adoption of more energy-efficient vehicles.

Finally — and this is the draw for many EV enthusiasts — there’s the personal satisfaction of making a little less of an impact on the environment. The ecologically perfect vehicle doesn’t exist, and never may, but electric vehicles tend to make a much smaller negative impact on the world.

Why Are EVs More Expensive to Insure?

luci cars, all electric luxury sedan, Saudi Arabia — Lucid electric

But if EVs are less expensive to maintain, how can they be more expensive to insure? A couple of reasons.

First, insurance for electric vehicles is subject to the same range of criteria as their traditional counterparts: your age, driving and claims history, marital status, and even your credit score and ZIP code can make a difference in how much you’ll pay for auto insurance.

Secondly, while the parts on EVs tend to be longer-lasting and break less frequently, they’re more expensive to replace when they finally do break. EV batteries are particularly difficult and expensive to replace. Servicing electric vehicles is also more expensive in general, since working on them requires specialized tools and training that may not be available everywhere.

How To Bring Those Insurance Premiums Down

So how much more does it cost to insure an electric vehicle? As you might expect, that depends on the vehicle. A Toyota RAV4 Hybrid only costs about $1700 in yearly premiums — not far off from the national average of $1548. On the other hand, insuring an expensive high-end car like the Tesla Model X or Porsche Taycan could run you up to $4000 or more. Most common commercial EVs will cost somewhere between $1700 and $2400 to insure yearly. While not necessarily a dealbreaker, it is a significant difference.

Fortunately, there are some ways you can bring those premiums down to a level more comparable with more traditional vehicles. There are the aforementioned tax incentives and insurance discounts available specifically for green vehicles. Your existing insurance carrier may not offer such a discount, in which case it might be worth looking into switching companies. If you want to go comparison shopping, you can get free car insurance quotes from a variety of online tools — Kristine Lee at the insurance comparison site The Zebra offers a frequently updated guide to getting car insurance quotes and finding a better deal. Some insurance companies even specialize in electric vehicles.

There are also more time-honored ways of bringing your auto insurance rates down. For example, you can ask your insurer what kind of other discounts you might qualify for (low mileage, good student, occupational or military discount, multi-vehicle discount, etc).

You could also invest in some additional anti-theft and safety equipment for your vehicle — not a bad idea regardless, given that EVs tend to be a larger financial investment overall. Insurers will take note of this and will likely offer a discount for reducing the risk of a costly claim. Taking a defensive driving course is another great way to get a discount. Finally, if you’re a homeowner, consider bundling your home and auto insurance together — most insurers will offer a discount for that.

While electric vehicles currently cost more to insure, that may change as they continue to edge into the mainstream and become more commonplace. The small market share of EVs naturally drives costs up, but as green solutions become more popular and important to businesses, the insurance rates will likely evolve and come down to rates similar to those of gas-burning vehicles.

Debunking Myths: The Truth About Renewable Energy

Energy

Bhok Thompson

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July 18, 2023

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robots renewable energy — Do you have climate anxiety? Are you worried renewables won’t save us? Let us help calm your fears.

In today’s world, renewable energy is seen as a beacon of hope for sustainable development. But myths and misconceptions surrounding it are widespread. It’s time to set the record straight: renewable energy is viable and necessary for us to meet global climate goals.

According to Statista, in 2022, about 27.6 percent of global electricity generation came from solar power, wind, hydropower, and other renewable sources. This percentage had steadily increased since 2010, when only six percent was generated by renewable sources.

It’s clear that renewable energy plays an increasingly important role in powering our society today and will be even more critical tomorrow. So let us debunk some common myths surrounding this essential resource now.

The Context and Importance of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy has become increasingly important in our society, especially in light of the global climate crisis. It’s essential in achieving our goals as humanity strives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

By using renewable sources such as Puma Energy, we can reduce our reliance on non-sustainable energy sources such as fossil fuels and nuclear power. Not only will this help us decrease emissions, but it also reduces our dependence on finite resources that are becoming more scarce.

Renewable energy can also bring many socio-economic benefits to local communities, including new jobs and increased economic activity. Additionally, it can create a feeling of empowerment as people can use their own resources to produce electricity.

Common Renewable Energy Myths

Green MBA in engineering and she is building a robot to build solar panels — She’s taking a green MBA and building a robot who can manufacture custom solar panels

Renewable energy has become crucial to our society, yet many myths and misconceptions surround it. Let’s debunk the popular ones:

It’s too expensive

Renewable energy has been subject to the misconception that it is expensive. Contrary to this, the cost of renewable energies such as solar, wind, and hydropower have dropped significantly over the last decade. In fact, according to a report published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IREA), solar PV power has decreased by 85 percent since 2010.

What’s more, countries around the world have seen lower electricity prices thanks to renewable energy. For example, renewable energy costs four times cheaper in India than coal-based electricity. This shows how cost-effective renewables can be when implemented correctly.

Furthermore, investments made in renewable energy help reduce fuel costs over time as well as reduce dependence on foreign energy sources. This makes renewable energy an even more economically viable option.

It can’t provide enough power

wind turbine, drone above looking down over the blades onto land — Renewable energy is a sound investment

Even though renewable energy sources are increasingly getting more cost-effective, one of the most commonly heard myths surrounding them is that they cannot provide enough power. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Technological advances have made producing large quantities of electricity from renewable energy sources possible. For example, wind turbines can now generate enough electricity to power entire cities, and the latest solar panels in the markets are highly efficient at converting sunlight into electricity.

Here are countries powered by renewable energy sources:

Scotland — 97% of all electricity produced
Costa Rica — 98% of all electricity produced
Uruguay — 98% of all electricity produced
Norway — 98% of all electricity produced

This proves renewable energy sources can provide enough power for large populations and should be considered a viable alternative energy source.

It’s unreliable

One of the most common myths about renewable energy is its perceived unreliability. This misconception stems from the fact that renewable sources, like solar and wind, depend on weather conditions to generate electricity. However, this does not mean that they are inherently unreliable.

Technological advances have made renewable energy sources far more efficient and reliable. For example, wind turbines can now be built to operate at lower wind speeds, while solar panels are more efficient than ever at converting sunlight into electricity.

Furthermore, adding better batteries and other storage solutions to renewable energy systems allows them to store excess power for later use. These enhancements make them a much more secure long-term investment for any homeowner or business.

It causes more environmental harm than good

refugees renewable energy — Renewables are a lifeline for people in developing nations and for refugees

The myth that renewable energy causes more harm than good has been debunked numerous times. Even though some forms of renewable energy, such as hydropower, can have negative impacts, the net result is still beneficial. You can check with an expert, such as Sarah Yumi of Healthspot, for possible adverse effects of renewables on the human body.

Renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for global warming and climate change. Additionally, it requires significantly less water to generate electricity than fossil fuels, making it a much more sustainable option.

Furthermore, renewable energy sources can help

preserve local ecosystems by reducing air and water pollution from burning fossil fuels. Ultimately, the environmental benefits of renewable energy make it an essential tool for meeting global climate goals.

It requires too much land

solar energy kuraymat, Egypt — Solar panels in Morocco

The myth that renewable energy requires too much land has been widely debunked. The land needed to generate renewable energy is smaller than other sources. For example, a solar photovoltaic (PV) uses 19m2 of land per mWh of electricity produced, whereas a coal plant requires 21m2 per mWh.

Moreover, the land used for renewable energy can often be used for multiple purposes, such as agriculture or grazing. This starkly contrasts fossil fuel plants that require large tracts of land with no other practical uses.

It’s not capable of supporting industrial and economic growth

Contrary to popular belief, renewables have the potential to support industrial and economic growth. Although they occupy relatively small land areas compared to other sources, solar and wind energy can provide significant electricity to power factories and businesses.

Furthermore, investments in renewable energy can create jobs and stimulate local economies. This can be through the construction of solar and wind farms and research and development projects.

Moreover, renewable energy sources can provide reliable electricity to households in rural areas, enabling small-scale businesses to develop and thrive. In addition, they offer long-term savings on fuel costs for industrial companies that rely on electricity to power their operations.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Renewable Energy

The future of renewable energy is looking brighter than ever. Thanks to technological advances and cost reductions, the adoption of renewables has increased in recent years. With more countries investing in green power sources, we can expect a more significant shift toward using clean energy in the coming months and years.

Governments must continue to create incentives for businesses and households alike so that everyone can reap the benefits of reliable electricity produced from sustainable sources. Renewable energy technologies will play a significant role in our society’s transition towards a greener future — one where economic growth isn’t dependent on polluting fossil fuels; instead, it’s powered by clean, renewable sources.

Green energy hydrogen breakthrough

Energy

Karin Kloosterman

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July 18, 2023

0

Hyzon hydrogen fuel bus — Hydrogen energy may be the future. Currently it costs more to produce than it’s worth but testing, testing, optimising, testing again. This is how energy becomes cleaner and greener.

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have succeeded in producing “green” hydrogen using green electricity — The hydrogen is produced without air pollution, with a high level of efficiency, utilizing a biocatalyst. Hydrogen is a necessary raw material for both agriculture and industry, but 95% of the hydrogen produced in the world today is “black” or “gray” — produced from coal or natural gas and emitting 9 to 12 tons of carbon dioxide for every ton of hydrogen.

For a primer read our history of hydrogen for fuel.

The new method was developed by doctoral student Itzhak Grinberg and Oren Ben-Zvi, under the guidance of Prof. Iftach Yacoby and Prof. Lihi Adler-Abramovich. The promising research results were published in the journal Carbon Energy, focusing on advanced materials and technology for clean energy and CO₂ emission reduction.

Green hydrogen from Tel Aviv University — Contact Remot if you want to invest in this new hydrogen breakthrough and this is the team you’d be investing in

“Hydrogen is very rare in the atmosphere,” explains Itzhak Grinberg, “although it is produced by enzymes in microscopic organisms, which receive the energy for this from photosynthesis processes. In the lab, we “electrify” those enzymes, that is, an electrode provides the energy instead of the sun.

“The result is a particularly efficient process, with no demand for extreme conditions, that can utilize electricity from renewable sources such as solar panels or wind turbine. However, the enzyme ‘runs away’ from the electric charge, so it needs to be held in place through chemical treatment. We found a simple and efficient way to attach the enzyme to the electrode and utilize it.”

The world has seen 5 breakthroughs in hydrogen. Read about them here.

5 hydrogen storage and energy breakthroughs

The researchers used a hydrogel (a water-based gel) to attach the enzyme to the electrode, and were able to produce green hydrogen using a biocatalyst, and with over 90 percent efficiency; that is, over 90 percent of the electrons introduced into the system were deposited in the hydrogen without any secondary processes.

Prof. Iftach Yacoby explains that, “The material of the gel itself is known, but our innovation is to use it to produce hydrogen. We soaked the electrode in the gel, which contained an enzyme for producing hydrogen, called hydrogenase. The gel holds the enzyme for a long time, even under the electric voltage, and makes it possible to produce hydrogen with great efficiency and at environmental conditions favorable to the enzyme — for example, in salt water, in contrast to electrolysis, which requires distilled water.

Prof. Lihi Adler-Abramovich adds: “Another advantage is that the gel assembles itself — you put the material in water, and it settles into nanometric fibers that form the gel. We demonstrated that these fibers are also able to stick the enzyme to the electrode. We tested the gel with two other enzymes, in addition to the hydrogenase, and proved that it was able to attach different enzymes to the electrode.”

Today, ‘green’ hydrogen is produced primarily through electrolysis, which requires precious and rare metals such as platinum along with water distillation, which makes the green hydrogen up to 15 times more expensive than the polluting ‘grey’ one.

Oren Ben-Zvi adds: “We hope that in the future, it will be possible to employ our method commercially, to lower the costs, and to make the switch towards using green hydrogen in industry, agriculture, and as a clean energy source.”

#energystorage, #green, #innovation, #renewableenergy, #sustainability

A non-Jew’s guide to keeping Kosher

Danielle Meyers

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July 17, 2023

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Have you ever walked into a grocery store and been confused about what was meant by the kosher aisle? What the symbol was on some food packaging that had a U with a circle around it? Today I will share with you what it means to be kosher and how to follow a kosher diet.

Keeping kosher is the practice of adhering to strict guidelines of dietary restrictions done by Jews for thousands of years. Most Jews that keep kosher are orthodox, however, Jews of all spectrums can keep kosher if they would like to. The Torah, which is the Hebrew bible of the five books of Moses, lists what it means to be kosher and how to do it. As Jews say, “to be pure, proper, or suitable for consumption” is a kosher diet. The Jewish word for being kosher is “Kashrut” which means to be fit, proper, and suitable for consumption”.

Kosher laws are the laws given by God to the Jewish people. One of which is that it is forbidden to mix meat products with dairy. For example, cheeseburgers are not kosher. Secondly, as Jews say, An animal is kosher if it has split hooves and chews its cud.

This means cow, lamb, and beef are all kosher. Pig is not kosher, so no bacon under Jewish law. Sea animals are kosher if they have fins and scales. This means flounder, cod, salmon, and whitefish are all kosher. Shrimp, clams, lobster, and crab are not kosher. Birds need to be non-predators, so chicken and turkey are deemed kosher under kosher rules.

When it comes to fruits and vegetables, it is important to thoroughly wash them because insects are not kosher (which also ensures a safe consumption of fruits and vegetables). Otherwise, all fruits and vegetables are kosher. Unless you live in Israel where the laws of shmita are observed.

It is also important that when preparing food all utensils used are not contaminated by non-kosher food items. So if a knife was used to cut a cheeseburger, that knife cannot be used to eat a kosher meal. In addition, kosher food cannot be cooked with non-kosher food. For this reason, there needs to be entirely separate dishes, pans, and utensils for kosher and non-kosher food.

Even when it comes to cleaning, there needs to be separate sponges to ensure there is no mixing. It is best that a kosher kitchen is kept as a kosher kitchen otherwise it is very difficult to ensure there is no mixing between kosher and non-kosher foods. Or, if you have a mixed household, you should have entirely separate cabinets that designate which pots, pans, utensils, etc. are kosher and which ones are non-kosher.

When it comes to packaged food, you need to make sure that the food item is labeled as kosher. There are different symbols that show that the food items have been verified and given a certification that it is safe to consume in a kosher diet. Some of these symbols include the OU (Orthodox Union), the OK (Organized Kashrut Laboratories), and the KSA (Kosher Supervision of America).

The Orthodox Union logo is seen on food packages that are certified kosher

The environmental benefit of keeping kosher

vegan junk food — A vegan burger makes it easy for all Jewish people to eat as long as there are no bugs in the meatless burger. Lab meat creates a new question. Is it meat?

Keeping kosher is better for the environment for a few reasons. Kosher laws skew what Jews are allowed to eat, leaving more room for fruits and vegetables. Although Jews can still eat meat (which is not great for the environment), they cannot eat meat and dairy together, so its own or the other. In addition, it eliminates certain products from the diet so it is closer to a vegan diet than a normal diet would be.

For example, kosher Jews cannot eat pork, which helps reduce their carbon footprint. “Your chances of being part of the sustainable movement by eating kosher is very likely,” says the Orthodox Union on keeping kosher. This is because some of the top kosher companies in the world have put sustainability measures at the top of their agenda.

Overall, the kosher diet is very important to Orthodox Jews and needs to be taken very seriously in the preparation of their food. Just like with any other religion, these practices need to be respected and recognized. Jews all over the world practice kosher diets, and it is very common to see kosher labels and certifications on food products and in restaurants.

How You Can Maintain a Healthy Weight and Lead a Better Lifestyle

Health

Bhok Thompson

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July 17, 2023

0

Mediterranean diet demise — The best diet starts with a healthy plate of food. Experts the world over suggest the Mediterrean Diet for heart health

A better and much healthier lifestyle is well within your reach. To achieve this lifestyle, you may need to make changes and compromises. One of the areas that can have an impact on your lifestyle is your weight. If you’re not happy with your weight, it can leave you feeling depressed and anxious. If you’re overweight, it can also have a negative impact on your well-being and health. When it comes to maintaining a healthy weight, there are a few things you may wish to think about and consider:

Understand Portion Control and Look at the Perfect Plate

One of the first things you need to start looking at is the portions you consume. Portion control can be hard to master, and it can be hard to control just what you put on your plate. Looking at the perfect plate and seeing what it consists of will help you to get control of your portions. For example, does your perfect plate consist of a portion of vegetables, a portion of protein, and a portion of carbohydrates? Quite often, you can find that a plate will be loaded with carbohydrates, and this can mean you’re consuming far more calories than you need to.

Speak to a Pharmacy About Weight Loss

Even though you may be putting in a lot of effort to control your portions, you may still find that you’re not losing as much weight as you would like. If this is the case, you may want to reach out to a pharmacy or a chemist. Chemist Click Online Pharmacy may be able to help you find a weight loss tablet or solution that works for you, and that helps you achieve a weight that you’re happy with.

Get to Know How Many Calories Your Body Needs

How many calories does your body actually need in any 24-hour period? There are averages for men and women, but these can vary depending on your activity levels, and on your height and build. Speaking to a medical professional, and even meeting with a nutritional consultant can help you identify how many calories you need. You may find that you’re consuming a lot more calories than you need, and you may find you’re doing this before half the day has even passed.

Adopting the Right Mindset

To lead a healthier lifestyle and make changes that are sustainable, you need to adopt the right mindset. If you don’t have a focused and positive mindset, you’ll find that a healthy lifestyle will evade you.

To obtain this mindset and retain it, you need to think about the positives a better lifestyle will give you. Think carefully about the advantages you’ll get from being a bit healthier, and from maintaining a healthy weight. For example, when you maintain a healthy weight, you’ll find you have more energy throughout the day. You’ll also find that your body doesn’t feel under so much strain or pressure. Thinking about the advantages and positives you’ll gain will help you maintain the best mindset for success.

Escape the Rut: Practical Tips for Overcoming Job Dissatisfaction

Act

Bhok Thompson

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July 16, 2023

0

Escape the Rut: Practical Tips for Overcoming Job Dissatisfaction

Rural solar panels — People that help people go solar in developing nations have a great amount of job satisfaction even though the actual job is just “mechanics”

Are you feeling stuck in a job that drains your energy and leaves you dissatisfied? You’re not alone. Job dissatisfaction is a widespread issue that can have detrimental effects on your overall well-being. However, it’s not a situation you have to endure indefinitely. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips to help you escape the rut of job dissatisfaction and find greater fulfillment in your career. We’ll also delve into the concept of frictional unemployment and its relation to job dissatisfaction.

Understanding Job Dissatisfaction and Frictional Unemployment

Job dissatisfaction refers to the unhappiness and discontentment experienced by individuals in their current employment. It can stem from various factors, such as a lack of growth opportunities, poor management, work-life imbalance, low compensation, or unsupportive workplace culture. When left unaddressed, job dissatisfaction can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being, leading to stress, burnout, and reduced productivity.

On the other hand, what is frictional unemployment? It is a type of unemployment that occurs when individuals are temporarily out of work as they search for new job opportunities. It often arises due to transitions between jobs or when individuals enter the job market for the first time. Frictional unemployment is a natural part of a dynamic labor market and can contribute to job dissatisfaction if the transition process is prolonged or frustrating.

Identifying Signs of Job Dissatisfaction

To begin overcoming job dissatisfaction, it’s crucial to identify the signs that indicate you may be unhappy in your current job. These signs can manifest as a lack of motivation, persistent stress or anxiety, boredom, or a feeling of being unappreciated. Pay attention to any negative changes in your attitude towards work or your overall well-being. Recognizing these signs will help you take proactive steps toward finding a more fulfilling career path.

Practical Tips for Overcoming Job Dissatisfaction

Assess Your Values and Goals:

Take some time to reflect on your core values and long-term career goals. Evaluate whether your current job aligns with these values and goals. If there is a significant misalignment, it might be time to consider alternative career paths that better resonate with your aspirations.

Improve Communication with Your Supervisor and Colleagues:

Open and honest communication is crucial for addressing job dissatisfaction. Schedule a meeting with your supervisor to discuss your concerns and explore potential solutions. Foster constructive conversations with your colleagues to build a supportive work environment and strengthen professional relationships.

Seek Professional Development Opportunities:

Continuous learning and personal growth can be instrumental in finding job satisfaction. Identify areas for improvement and seek out professional development opportunities, such as workshops, courses, or certifications. Developing new skills can enhance your value as an employee and open doors to new career prospects.

Consider a Career Change or Transition:

If all other avenues fail to alleviate your job dissatisfaction, it might be time to consider a career change or transition. Research different industries and roles that align with your interests and strengths. Take small steps, such as networking, updating your resume, and exploring new job opportunities, to navigate the path towards a more fulfilling career.

Addressing Frictional Unemployment: Strategies for a Smooth Transition

Now that we’ve touched on the concept of frictional unemployment, let’s explore strategies to facilitate a smooth transition during this phase:

Build a Strong Personal Brand and Network:

Enhance your professional presence by developing a strong personal brand. Create or update your LinkedIn profile, engage in industry-specific online communities, and attend networking events to connect with professionals in your desired field.

Utilize Online Job Platforms and Recruitment Agencies:

Leverage online job platforms, such as LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, or Glassdoor, to search for relevant job opportunities. Additionally, consider partnering with recruitment agencies that specialize in your desired industry or field.

Upskill and Engage in Continuous Learning:

To improve your employability and increase your chances of securing a new job, invest time in upskilling. Identify relevant skills or certifications in your target industry and pursue training or educational programs to enhance your qualifications.

man holding sun sign — Learn a new job in renewable energy and expand your horizons.

Embracing Change: Your Path to a Fulfilling and Satisfying Career

Job dissatisfaction can be a significant roadblock to personal and professional growth. By implementing the practical tips outlined in this article, you can start taking active steps toward overcoming job dissatisfaction and finding greater fulfillment in your career. Remember, the process may involve a transition period, which may result in frictional unemployment. However, by understanding the concept and employing the strategies discussed, you can navigate this phase more effectively. Embrace the opportunity for positive change and embrace a brighter future in your professional life.

The Healthiest Vegan Smoothie

Food
Recipe

Danielle Meyers

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July 16, 2023

0

Veganism is taking the world by storm, with more than 79 million vegans taking over the diet industry. Being vegan is adventurous, fun, and full of amazing health and environmental benefits.

Going vegan is not as hard as people may think, there are plenty of food alternatives that can substitute all the delicious foods that you’d hate to give up. In addition, the environmental benefits of going vegan are astronomical and can vastly reduce one’s carbon footprint. Today I will share with you a recipe that I have been making for years now. It is delicious, incredibly healthy, and definitely worth trying.

Spinach Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie

If you like the banana and peanut butter combo, you are sure to like this smoothie. It is thick, creamy, sweet, and vegan. It is high in protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied all day. It is full of nutrients to promote good health and a clear mind. This is a must-try for those who are vegan or just want to find a delicious smoothie recipe.

Ingredients:

Spinach

Spinach is one of the healthiest things you can put in your smoothie. The good thing about spinach in smoothies is that it does not taste like anything in smoothies, especially with bananas and peanut butter. There are tons of amazing health benefits in spinach, such as its anti-inflammatory, preventing cancer, reducing blood sugar, helping with weight management and so much more.

Banana

Bananas are my favorite fruit to put in any smoothie because they provide a thick and creamy, sweet flavor and are full of nutrients like potassium. Make sure to use bananas that are ripe in order to get the best results.

Peanut butter

Peanut butter is a must in this recipe. It is high in protein and provides a lot of flavor. Peanut butter is delicious and filling, and full of great health benefits. Just make sure you are using natural peanut butter and that its only ingredient is peanuts. You can also use other nut butters such as almond butter and sunflower seed butter.

Oat milk

Oat milk is vegan, delicious, and works great in any smoothie recipe. You can also use other non-dairy milks like almond milk or soy milk, but I’d stay away from almond milk as it is not the best for the environment. Also, make sure you are using good oat milk as many oat milk companies fill their milk with bad ingredients, so I recommend you can make your own oat milk.

Flaxseed

This ingredient is not as common in smoothies but it’s something I’ve been incorporating for a while now that people do not know how healthy it is. Flaxseed is full of fiber and a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Vegan protein powder of your choice

This is your choice in selecting a protein powder. There are so many protein powders on the market, but few that are both vegan and clean. There is also the option of choosing a flavored protein powder, like vanilla or chocolate. I suggest getting one that’s either vanilla or chocolate because it adds more flavor. Just make sure you read the ingredients carefully and know what is inside the protein powder so that it is good for you and vegan.

This recipe is quick and easy to make. One tip that I recommend is to freeze your bananas. This is my best tip for making a thick, creamy smoothie. No matter what fruit you put into your smoothie, you should use it when it’s frozen. This way you don’t have to use ice cubes to make it cold and it won’t water down your smoothie.

For the most part, you don’t need to use exact measurements when making a smoothie. I typically estimate what I think works best, but this is around how much I use in a single serving for this smoothie. There is also no specific order in making this smoothie and all ingredients can be thrown into a blender and you are sure to come out with a delicious smoothie.

Handful of spinach
1 banana
1 cup oat milk
2 tablespoons flaxseed
2 scoops of protein powder

You are also welcome to add/take out any ingredients in the recipe. Other things you can add to your recipe include other fruits like mixed berries. There are tons of other nutrients you can add to your smoothie to make it a superfoods smoothie with tons of vitamins and minerals.

I love using superfoods powder, which is typically vegan but you should always double-check. In addition to flaxseed, you can also try hemp seeds and chia seeds. You can even add different greens to the smoothie like mixed greens, kale, or even avocado.

picture of a superfoods powder — Garden of Life’s vegan’s superfoods powder

Smoothies are one of the best foods to incorporate into your diet for how healthy and customizable they are. It is so easy to add healthy and nutritious items to your smoothie in order to ensure you are getting in all your vitamins and minerals. It is easy to go vegan with this smoothie recipe.

Food alternatives to go vegan

Food
Recipe

Danielle Meyers

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July 13, 2023

0

As I wrote previously about the vegan festival in Tel Aviv, I will continue writing here on going vegan and why it helps the environment so much. The benefits of going vegan are endless. Did you know that one person going vegan saves 30 animals’ lives a year? Or that going vegan can reduce water waste by 50 percent?

These are only two of the many reasons why going vegan creates such a positive impact. However, going vegan is not as complicated as people think. With veganism being so popular today, so many startups have begun that sell alternatives to your favorite foods. In this article, I will list some of the alternatives to some of your favorite meat and dairy products.

Meat for vegans

plants in beakers — Meat alternatives are often made in a lab

One of the hardest aspects of veganism for so many is giving up meat. It becomes challenging to find alternatives to meat, especially for those who are trying to get lots of protein in. However, there are many alternatives to meat and protein that ensure you get the benefits of meat so that you can cut it out.

First off, my favorite: tofu. Tofu is a highly nutritious, soybean-based protein source that can be swapped in as an alternative to chicken, beef, turkey, lamb, etc.

Tofu is especially fun for those who love crafting up recipes as tofu can be crafted into so many delicious things. For example, tofu can be made Asian style with soy sauce or teriyaki sauce. It can also be used in a Thai recipe with curry or in a pad Thai. Israelis also enjoy tofu on top of salads mixed with tahina, hummus, and even za’atar. Check out this recipe on how to make Za’atar-Flavored Tofu. Tofu can be prepared by baking, frying, or stir-frying, and can be put on top of anything.

If you are hesitant about tofu or do not like it. There are alternatives to chicken, beef, and fish that you can buy in the store. There is also vegan schnitzel in store at your local AM PM (which I like to buy) and tastes delicious you would never guess there is no meat in it. As I found at the vegan festival, Creative Pea sells alternatives to these meat products made from pea protein, and are all so delicious. Other companies include Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat but may not contain the best ingredients.

Other excellent sources of protein include black beans, chickpeas, and lentils. Nut butters and seeds are also high in protein and a great source of heart-healthy fat. Beans are high in fiber and can be customized to fit into many meals. Nuts and seeds are also linked to good health and less chance of getting cancer.

Dairy for vegans

Dairy products are a little more tricky when it comes to going vegan. This is because although being vegan is good for the environment, the sourcing of vegan products is not always made sustainably. For example, almond milk is destructive to bee hives and uses a lot of nuts to produce 1 carton of milk. A good alternative that is both vegan and produced sustainably is oat milk.

Still, you need to be careful when purchasing oat milk because the ingredients are not always the best, containing a lot of sugars and additives. If possible, try making your own oat milk with this recipe. You can also purchase vegan cheeses, yogurts, and ice creams. First off, head over to Otello if you want some really good vegan gelato. As I mentioned in my article on the vegan fest, Plenty offers a range of delicious vegan cheeses, yogurts, and cream cheese.

Protein Supplements for vegans

If you are still struggling by the end of this article to find protein alternatives, there are protein powders, bars, drinks, etc. on the market that are vegan. Especially if you have a sweet tooth, this is a good option for you. The best option to get the best health benefits is by making protein smoothies, this way you can get in your veggies. A favorite of mine is one with spinach, banana, peanut butter, and chocolate protein powder. Protein powders make your life so much easier to get in protein because it’s easy to mix into anything. For example, mix protein powder into your pancake mix and you have high-protein, vegan pancakes.

Still looking for vegan options? Check out an article that lists more vegan companies.

Bedouin Traditions to bring back a sustainable community with Project Wadi Attir

Danielle Meyers

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July 13, 2023

0

We pulled up into a barren plot of land that stretched for miles. I, and the rest of my Onward friends in my Israel internship program were utterly confused. Where were we? I remember thinking. We were quite literally in the middle of nowhere, just miles of open, dry land, the land of Israel.

Once we got off the bus we were brought into a room with tables and a board where we learned what we were here for. Project Wadi Attir, is a sustainable development organization that aims to farm through Bedouin traditions in an eco way. Fostered by The Sustainability Laboratory, the goal of this project and the other projects is to integrate sustainable practices of agriculture.

The property is located in the north Negev desert and it desires to bring back original Bedouin traditions like folk medicine that have been long forgotten from the past. Traditional Bedouin culture were nomad Arabs who farmed the land in a sustainable way. This project brings back this method of farming so that farmland is better preserved and taken care of, and this was very clear as we were taken on our tour of the property.

They showed us around the 100-acre land and showed us some of the goats and sheep. The goats are milked by hand only and we even were able to hold one of the goats. They also served us some labneh, which was goat cheese they made on-site. You can make your own labneh with our recipe here.

Hold a goat

“This whole project is to take all the tradition and knowledge the Bedouins had for thousands of years in the desert and try to use it and bring it back with the most advanced technique and technology,” said Mohammed Alnabari, one of the founders of the project.

This project was also inspired to achieve a holistic approach back to a natural way of healing. Similarly to Tavlinsky and Cafe Levinsky crafting their ingredients on site, the project produces its own herbs, dairy products, and vegetables all made sustainably through an ancient Bedouin method of cultivation, and is supposed to provide a more natural way of living.

It is also hopeful to inspire other farmland to adopt this agricultural style in order to preserve the planet and support the Bedouin community and lifestyle. You can also buy their herbs and medicinal plants in the store they have on site.

Although it may seem like this place is all designed to be ancient and hand produced, there are solar fields on site that they use to generate electricity. In addition, the goat milking facility is one of the most advanced in Israel. Each goat has an ID bracelet, which tells them a lot of information like how much milk it yielded, how much time it milked, how old she is, and information on the milk cycle. “It can milk 48 items, goats or sheep at one time,” said Alnabari on the milking process. There are 100 goats and 100 sheep being milked right now on-site, giving about 3 liters of milk and being used to produce traditional Bedouin cheese.

What was so unique about my experience at Project Wadi Attir was that there were little kids there, learning, playing, and just experiencing the culture. When we arrived, the kids were staring at us like deer in the headlights. A group of modern, flashy young adults from America standing in front of tiny children that knew nothing of our lifestyles. I wasn’t able to speak to any of these children (mostly because they didn’t speak English), but it would be so interesting to know what they are thinking and get the perspective from their side.

The children that were at Project Wadi Attir

This Project not only builds a more sustainable Bedouin farm life, but also reestablishes a Bedouin tribe that brings people together from all over the world. As international relations is a complicated subject that is so heavily discussed in the Middle East, these projects are crucial in creating stronger bonds between people because it allows us to look each other in the eye and see different perspectives.

Seeing how other people live is the first step in forming peaceful relations and also grows our intellect just to see how other people live.

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Take the bus, walk, bike, skate or scooter

Try going vegan for a day

Turn off the lights before heading out

Use a reusable water bottle, don’t buy a plastic one

Cook and pack your lunch for the day

Shop locally

Go through old clothes and donate them

Hang your clothes on the drying rack

Take a shorter shower (together?)

Take the stairs

Repurpose old bottles and cans

Candles from old jars

Vase from plastic or glass bottle

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It’s not capable of supporting industrial and economic growth

Looking Ahead: The Future of Renewable Energy

The environmental benefit of keeping kosher

Spinach Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie

Meat for vegans

Dairy for vegans

Protein Supplements for vegans

Hold a goat

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