Page 98 – Green Prophet

Sustainable Travel Tips to Ionian Islands

Travel

Bhok Thompson

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June 11, 2023

Deserted Ionion Island — *The Ionion islands and sustainable travel go hand-in-hand*

The Ionian Islands, nestled in the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Those islands, which are a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, are an ideal destination for travellers. With stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, these islands provide a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. Rich in history, visitors can explore ancient ruins, Venetian architecture, and charming villages. In addition, the islands also offer delicious cuisine, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Whether seeking a beach getaway, or to get a taste of Greek island life or you are here simply for a historical exploration, Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays provide an unforgettable experience for all. As tourism continues to thrive in this picturesque region, it is vital for visitors to adopt sustainable travel practices that minimize their impact on the environment and support the local communities. Sustainable travel practices have become very essential for minimizing the negative impact of tourism on the environment and local communities. Travellers can make conscious and responsible decisions for the preservation of natural resources and support local economies.

Over tourism in Ionian Islands is creating challenges for both locals and visitors, particularly due to overcrowding during the summer season. The overdevelopment in the area, destruction of local nature and noise pollution is leaving a negative impact on the islands. Tourists and travellers need to be aware the destruction happening due to their represent and minimize their carbon footprint by practicing sustainable travel and following community-based tourism initiatives.

Mr. Panos from Nikoli village at Lefkada Island in the Ionian Sea of Greece. Meet some locals when you travel sustainably.

Let us have a look at some essential sustainable travel tips to ensure a memorable and eco-friendly experience while exploring the enchanting Ionian Islands

Choose Eco-friendly Accommodation

When selecting accommodation, opt for eco-friendly options such as eco-lodges, guesthouses, or hotels with green certifications. Look for accommodations that prioritize energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and use sustainable materials. Additionally, support locally owned establishments to contribute directly to the local economy and foster a sense of community.

Respect Nature and Wildlife
The Ionian Islands boast diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, pristine beaches, and marine habitats teeming with wildlife. Preserve these natural wonders by following responsible practices. Avoid disturbing wildlife or removing natural souvenirs such as shells or coral. Stay on designated trails to prevent trampling sensitive vegetation and habitats. Refrain from feeding or touching wild animals, as it can disrupt their natural behaviour and lead to dependency on humans.

Minimize Plastic Waste
Plastic pollution is a global concern, and the Ionian Islands are no exception. Reduce your plastic footprint by carrying a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and cutlery set. Say no to plastic straws and single-use items whenever possible. Choose accommodation providers and restaurants that actively minimize plastic waste by offering alternatives or promoting recycling initiatives. Participate in beach clean-up activities to help preserve the pristine shores of the Ionian Islands.

Save Water and Energy
Being mindful of water and energy expenditure is crucial in promoting sustainability. Consider taking shorter showers and reuse the towels, and do not forget to turn off lights and air conditioning when not in use. Conserve water by opting for eco-friendly bathing and cleaning products. Consider staying in accommodations that have implemented water and energy-saving measures, such as low-flow showerheads and energy-efficient appliances.

Support Local Businesses
Embrace the local culture and economy by supporting locally owned businesses, including restaurants, shops, and tour operators. Sample traditional Ionian cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients, purchase authentic handmade crafts, and engage in local activities that provide a genuine insight into the island’s traditions. By supporting local businesses, you contribute directly to the livelihoods of the island’s residents and help preserve their unique way of life.

Respect Cultural Heritage

The Ionian Islands have a rich cultural heritage, with ancient ruins, historic sites, and museums that tell captivating stories. Show respect for these cultural treasures by following designated paths, refraining from touching or removing artifacts, and adhering to any rules or guidelines provided by authorities. By appreciating and preserving the cultural heritage, you contribute to the sustainable development and pride of the local communities.

Choose Sustainable Transportation
Opt for sustainable transportation options to explore the Ionian Islands. Consider using public transportation, cycling, or walking whenever feasible. If renting a vehicle is necessary, choose eco-friendly options or carpool with other travellers to reduce emissions. Explore the islands’ stunning landscapes through eco-friendly activities such as hiking, kayaking, or sailing, allowing you to experience nature first-hand while minimizing your carbon footprint.

Learn and Engage
Take the time to learn about the local environment, culture, and customs of the Ionian Islands. Engage in educational tours, workshops, or volunteer opportunities that promote sustainable practices and conservation efforts. Participate in eco-tourism initiatives that support local conservation projects or marine research, allowing you to contribute directly to the preservation of the Ionian Islands’ natural heritage. It is a great way to support local businesses and artisans and learn more about the traditions.

Stay on proper paths and carry a reusable water bottle
As a repsosible traveller, one must always stick to the designated route for hiking or traveling and carry your own reusable water bottle. Straying away from the specified path may damage the local plants and that may coast the local environment. As there are plenty of spots in Ionian islands where you can fill your water bottle for free, it doesn’t make sense to keep buying new water bottles.

Explore local experiences
Ionian islands are well known for their hospitality and go to any length to make their guests feel at home. It would be a great idea to join a locally led tour to add to your eco-friendly experience. You can be assured of beeign treated like a special guest, enjoy a great experience as well as lower your carbon footprint. Some good examples are joining a traditional cooking class or taking part in an art class or simply interacting with the local.

As you embark on your journey to the captivating Ionian Islands, remember that sustainable travel is not only about preserving the environment but also about supporting local communities and preserving their cultural heritage. By following these sustainable travel tips, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience while minimizing your ecological impact and leaving a positive footprint on these cherished islands.

Let your visit to the Ionian Islands be a celebration of sustainability, where you connect with nature, immerse yourself in local culture, and contribute to the preservation of this remarkable destination for generations to come. As some parting words, you can learn a few Greek words and show your interest and respect for the local culture and can lead by example by acting sustainably.

Morocco’s recyclable Neo jeep is the Volkswagen for the people

Transportation

Karin Kloosterman

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June 9, 2023

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The recyclable Neo Morac - After making its debut at Gitex Africa, the car has officially hit the streets of the North African nation — *After making its debut at Gitex Africa, the Neo car has officially hit the streets of the North African nation. Yes, the NEO Maroc is Morocco’s first 100% locally-designed recyclable car*

It’s not electric, but it is recyclable and now part of the circular economy: As soon as July this year the assembly plant in Ain Aouda. Morocco will begin building these Neo Maroc jeeps at an affordable $15,000 and $20,000. Morocco’s king wants his nation to be among the top 10 car-producing countries in the world.

The Neo’s fiberglass body is a stylistic nod to American military jeeps of the 40s, does drink conventional fuel, but its carbon footprint is softened by the fact that it’s completely recyclable, according to the creators. Morocco does not have net-zero target for energy, but its national green initiatives focus on a renewable energy goal, with 52 per cent of its electricity mix coming from renewables by 2030.

Israel developed a fibreglass car from the 1950s, called the Sussita. The problem was the local camels enjoyed recycling the cars faster than the drivers could use them.

From 1960, the sport model was produced under the Sabra brand, and the station wagon, sedan and pick-up models were produced under the Sussita brand name (Sussita (סוסיתא), Sussita 12 and Sussita 13/60 models). Following an agreement with the Greek automotive manufacturer Attica, a small number of Sussita 12 sedans (Carmel) were produced in Greece.nt will build 7,000 NEOs this year.

Another Moroccan car will be launched in 2025, the NamX Hydrogen Utility Vehicle (HUV). The NAM will carry six removable capsules, providing an impressive driving range and lightning-fast refuelling times. Hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles like the HUV significantly outpace traditional combustion engines in terms of efficiency, and only exhale warm air and water vapour, rendering them a lean, clean driving machine.

Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, has awarded the Order of Intellectual Merit to Faouzi Annajah, the founder of NamX, the young hydrogen car brand. His SUV prototype goes along with “made in Morocco.”

The NEO debuted at Gitex Africa, the region’s main technology showcase where investors and entrepreneurs meet face to face. The car then drive around the city of Rabat. While there are only a handful of prototypes manufactured, a $15 million car plant will build 7,000 NEOs this year.

“This car has been seven years in the making, with thinking, designing and creating a prototype,” said Nassim Belkhayat, chief executive of NEO Motors, who had no prior experience in the automotive industry before funding Morocco’s third car brand. “It is the first Moroccan car that will be mass produced, so it is a dream for us, and all Moroccan people.”

A hybrid model is slated for production.

Morocco: King Mohammed VI presents first model Moroccan car brand NEO

The young women who danced with Fairuz in Jaffa

Act
Cities

Karin Kloosterman

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June 8, 2023

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*The Fairuz Festival Jaffa showed the world that in times of trouble, we always have dance*

A rumor started on a Facebook group in Jaffa that the beloved Lebanese singer Fairuz would be performing. Fairuz is the Ella Fitzgerald of the Arab world and without doubt the biggest musical icon of the Arab world. She is popularly known as “the soul of Lebanon” and has achieved fame despite being a modern, secular woman in an ultra-conservative world lived in by most of her biggest fans.

The 87-year-old singer did not perform that day in May, but in her spirit a dozen girls, Jewish and Arabic, with origins from the Holy Land and as far and wide as Canada and Ireland shared a common dance floor for change –– and led a dance with Faizuz’s music at a new local dance festival that took place in the Old City of Jaffa overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Tel Aviv. They had been working on the piece since January.

The dance troupe, led by Dalia Chaimsky dance director of the Jewish Arab Center in Israel, embraced a crew of 100 other girls and boys from Arab-speaking schools in the Jaffa area. The idea was to create a safe space for meeting face-to-face in a city that is culturally and religiously divided between rich and poor, secular and traditional, or Jewish, Muslim and Christian.

Fairuz, dance, Israel, Jaffa — *A group of girls from Jaffa share the hope for peace by creating a dance troupe that brings together schools with the music of Fairuz*.

The dance troupe of young women aged 12 to 14 elegantly embraced their role as dance mentors to the other children, as a Middle Eastern orchestra, The Jerusalem Orchestra East West played an entrancing piece made famous by Fairuz. Hand movements and pulses of dancers crowded the stage, but everyone, along with their families in the audience were excited about the moment that the cellphones were off and the children could express themselves. Having 113 children on stage was a bit chaotic but the excitement and deeper meaning palpable.

It’s been a trying time for bringing people with varying backgrounds together in Jaffa, an ancient port city of mixed Muslim, Jewish and Christian heritage that sits side-by-side with the ultra modern Tel Aviv to the north. There were rockets falling in the area a couple of months earlier and while Yulia a lazy seal stretched herself along a Jaffa shore uniting Jaffainians for a moment, the sense in the community was one of distrust, loss of hope and pain.

As a resident of Jaffa and a mother of 3 young boys there, Chaimsky had a personal and professional mission to unite people through culture and dance in her beloved city.

She tells Green Prophet: “After being part of the Jewish Arab Center for 6 years it was important for me to develop the dance culture for the kids in Jaffa, especially the ones in our center. But it’s also important that the dance culture would be developed in Jaffa so that people will see what we are doing and recognizing that art and dance is not only for fun but can connect communities.”

“Dance,” she adds, “can develop kids’ minds, their general knowledge, but also other aspects about their bodies, in music, and in choreography,” says the daughter of Lithuanian doctors who immigrated to Israel as a child. Chaimsky was a professional dancer before she took on the role of supervising the dance department at the Jewish Arab Center. Other disciplines found there include hip-hop, modern dance and ballet.

“The main thing we came out with the Fairuz Project was the 100-plus kids collaborating together from the Jaffa schools Kulna Yahad, Ajial and Al Alhua in Jaffa. We entered the schools with our dance teachers and did a dance project for kids who are non-dancers in their everyday life. It was important for me to choose music connected to the traditional Arabic culture in Jaffa and the Middle East,” Chaimsky explores.

*The Fairuz Dance Troupe from the Jewish Arab Center, left is their dance instructor Stav*

“The emphasis was on Arabic traditional music so the Arabic kids will be proud of their culture and sound and so that it will be heard in the public area for the Jewish kids to know and hear another culture and tradition that’s not from home.

“The main thing is that we are learning about this culture through movement and that everyone can connect. It was for three months in the school, one hour per week, and in the end we set everything together to one dance and the city worked hard so we’d have a great orchestra to play, the Jerusalem Orchestra East and West.”

Watch the Best of Fairuz

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaBYV-9g63o

It isn’t easy for Chaimsky, as a modern secular Jewish woman, to see young Arab women hidden from the public eye once they start puberty: “It’s important to say that in Jaffa by the age of 12 the girls stop dancing because of their traditions so it was important for me to emphasize Dance as something much more meaningful for life and which can connect the community.

“The fact that it comes out of Jaffa is a political statement,” she notes. “We are Jewish and Arab kids dancing together. We have different things to connect us now, not just the troubles, and yes we also have the good things. And you can see it onstage and you can see it in a very big festival like the one we had.

“But the main goal was to develop dance in the culture of Jaffa, within the kids,” Chaimsky, once a dancer, always a dancer, concludes.

The Fairuz Festival was in cooperation with and supported by the City of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, the Jewish Arab Center, The Mandel Center, the Old City of Jaffa, and the Pisgah Theatre in the Old City of Jaffa.

Palm Jebel Ali artificial islands in Dubai rise from the sand after 20 years

Architecture

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June 8, 2023

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Google Maps image of Palm Jebel Ali Islands — A Google Map of Palm Jebel Ali islands. Work on Palm Jebel Ali was halted soon after Dubai’s property market crashed in 2008. The project is being revived after a huge surge in Dubai property prices.

Palm Jebel Ali (نخلة جبل علي) an artificial archipelago in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, which began construction in October 2002 and which has been on hold since is supposed to be seeing some developments. You can see an updated satellite image that not much has happened and that there is a lot of sand sitting in the ocean waiting for villas, playgrounds, cafes and watersports.

The new master plan includes 80 hotels and resorts, and we hope they will follow the Estidama Pearl Rating System. The Pearl Rating System is a sustainable building code, like LEED, but which better suits the Middle East climate and culture. A project can receive One Pearl to Five Pearls depending on the total point-score a building project achieves. The scoring also gives a good overview of areas where improvements are needed and encourages sustainable management and operations.

The new master plan for the Palm Jebel Ali has been approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The project, which is part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, is said to be one of a series of visionary projects being undertaken by master developer Nakheel. Investors from the 2002 days up until the market crash in 2008 are reported to be in limbo.

*Palm Jumeira are artificial islands that include housing, hotels, spas and restaurants. Via Google Maps*

The new masterplan for the Palm Jebel Ali includes a number of new features, including a nature-inspired waterfront promenade, some fitness centers, various swimming pools, children’s play areas, indoor gardens, as well as leisure facilities within each residential building.

Palm Jebel Islands — *Palm Jebel Island model viewed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum*

The project is expected to be completed in 2027 and hopes to attract a wide range of residents, including families, professionals, and retirees. It is also expected to boost the local economy and create jobs. Some residents of the Palm Jumeira Islands report fetid water smells from lack of circulation around their private moat like island complex and wonder how these issues will be managed in the new iteration of the same concept.

Google map of the artificial islands in Dubai — *A Google Map overview of the 3 main artificial islands projects in Dubai*

In 2009 The Globe and Mail in Canada reported that “down by the docks, a noxious tide of toilet paper, raw sewage and chemical waste has turned the exclusive Jumeirah Beach – once a magnet for Westerners – into foul-smelling sludge. The pollution is bad enough to trigger typhoid and hepatitis in swimmers.”

We reported more problems with algae buildup back in 2010.

In 2018 thousands of dead fished washed ashore along with a strange foam. Artificial islands like the ones being built in Dubai are indeed playgrounds of the wealthy as the gates and moats offer seclusion and security from riffraff. But these hugely expensive projects have a negative impact on the planet: dredging destroys marine life, and natural erosion patterns of beaches and sand. A concrete base for the beaches is a tragedy.

“They usually say they are preserving nature,” says author Alastair Bonnett, a professor of social geography at University of Newcastle who has written a book on islands. He said in a National Geographic interview: “They plant trees and plant coral. But there’s a greenwash going on. It’s one of the paradoxes of the industrial world that we destroy nature and then we want it back. We are hungry for the very thing we’ve ruined. It’s like killing the thing you love and then bringing back its ghost.”

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum described in a tweet how this new destination comes as part of an ambitious plan to make the emirate “the most beautiful city in the world”.

“We announced our goal to double Dubai’s economy by 2033 and every day we add a new brick in building the most beautiful city in the world,” he said.

Captura harvests CO2 from the Sea

Brian Nitz

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June 8, 2023

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captura carbon sequester — *Carbon capture from the sea, by Captura*

The next time you open a container of carbonated water, sparkling wine or a soft drink you might wonder if the inventors of this green technology were inspired by the pssst fizz sound of carbon dioxide being released from the beverage into the atmosphere? What if this process could be reversed? Could this be used to sequester carbon dioxide?

Climate change is a product of too much carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases such as methane in the atmosphere. See the forest fires raging in Canada? An effect of climate change.

In some ways nature is ahead of us. Carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolves in water even at normal atmospheric pressure. Captura believes it can take advantage of the natural ability of water to dissolve carbon dioxide.

Billions of tons of carbon dioxide have already dissolved into the water of the world’s rivers lakes and oceans. We can be thankful for this but even nature has a limit. The dissolved CO2 makes carbonic acid which makes these bodies of water more acidic and can impact aquatic life. Acidity is one of the factors affecting coral reef health in the world’s oceans.

Eventually the water loses its ability to absorb more carbon dioxide. When freshwater lake temperature drops to its point of maximum density of 39°F or 3.98°C, surface water sinks to the bottom, displacing CO2 saturated water which rises and releases some of this gas back into the atmosphere. This seasonal turning of lakes happens in temperate climates. It also removes methane and introduces oxygen to deep waters. Certain types of fish such as smelt become active when a lake turns.

In equatorial climates the water temperature never drops to its point of maximum density so many lakes remain stratified and never turn over. Carbon dioxide and other dissolved gases can build up to a point where it is released catastrophically. This happened at Lake Nyos in Cameroon West Africa in August of 1986. The released carbon dioxide killed at least 1700 people.

Captura, from the United States, plans to use renewable energy to gently extract CO2 from the ocean where it can be used for industrial processes. Founded in 2021 using technology developed at Caltech’s laboratories, Captura provides low-cost atmospheric carbon removal by leveraging the world’s largest natural CO2 absorber – the ocean.

They report minimal impacts on the environment and using only renewable electricity and ocean water as inputs, applying a patented electrodialysis process to generate a stream of pure CO2 that can then be sequestered or utilized to make other low-carbon products.

The intake and output are in relatively shallow water with no need for deepwater pipelines or drilling platforms. Most ocean water will not need pre-treatment for the electrodialysis process which separates more acetic carbon dioxide rich water from the alkali water which is released to allow more “breathing room” for shallow ocean waters to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and pass it down to be absorbed by deeper water.

The CO2 output can be used for industrial processes and provides a verifiable measurement for carbon credit accounting.

A pilot is running in the Pacific ocean off Newport Beach California. It’s one of those ideas that when you see it you wonder why you didn’t think of it the last time you opened a can of soda.

Unlocking Success: 10 Proven Strategies to Boost Your Performance and Earn a Well Deserved Bonus

Good Job

Bhok Thompson

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June 5, 2023

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Coaching for new skills — *Coaching skills can help you go far. Find your new sustainable career choice. Solar? Energy? Green design?*

Performance is essential for success in today’s cutthroat workplace. Outstanding performance not only helps with personal development and career success, but it also makes you eligible for a merit increase and other types of prizes. This article offers 10 tried-and-true tactics that can help you succeed at work if you’re hoping to improve performance and receive a well-deserved bonus.

Strategy 2: Developing Time Management Skills

Setting definite objectives will help motivate performance. It is difficult to track progress and maintain concentration when there is no goal to work toward. Establish both short- and long term goals first, then divide them into manageable chunks. Make a thorough plan with milestones and due dates to help you stay on track. Keep a close eye on your development and adapt as required to stay on course.

Strategy 3: Enhancing Communication Skills

Success at work requires effective communication abilities. To grasp others’ viewpoints and promote good verbal communication, develop active listening abilities. Recognize nonverbal clues and exercise empathy. In order to communicate concepts simply and succinctly in writing, improve your writing abilities. Collaboration, conflict resolution, and improved performance are all facilitated by developing solid connections through good communication.

Strategy 4: Ongoing education and skill building

Continuous learning is essential for remaining relevant and increasing performance in the fast paced world of today. Keep abreast with developments and trends in the industry. Look for educational possibilities like webinars, seminars, or online courses. To improve your talents, embrace professional development courses and certifications. Develop a growth mentality, accept new difficulties, and actively look for chances to increase your knowledge and skill.

Strategy 5: Maintaining Work-Life Balance

herbs garden smartest food for your brain — *Gardening can help you find the world-life balance.*

The secret to continued performance is a balanced work-life balance. To prevent burnout, realize how important it is to take pauses and recharge. Set limits between your personal and professional lives. Give self-care pursuits like exercise, hobbies, and time with loved ones a priority. You’ll boost productivity, enhance general wellbeing, and continue to function at a high level over the long term if you maintain work-life balance.

Strategy 6: Developing a Positive Attitude

Your perspective has a big impact on how well you perform. Develop a positive outlook by emphasizing opportunities rather than constraints. Accept positivity even amid difficult circumstances. To change your attitude and embrace appreciation, practice thankfulness. Talk to yourself in a constructive manner and swap out limiting thoughts with ones that are empowering. You may improve your confidence, resiliency, and general performance by developing a positive mentality.

Strategy 7: Effective Stress Management

Performance and your capacity to realize your full potential can both be hampered by stress. Determine the sources of stress in your workplace and put sensible stress-reduction measures into place. To lower your stress levels, include relaxation exercises, meditation, or other practices in your daily routine. Ask for assistance from coworkers, mentors, or experts as needed. You may improve concentration, productivity, and performance by handling stress well.

Strategy 8: Embracing Feedback and Continuous Improvement

Feedback is an effective tool for both professional and personal development. Ask for input from mentors, coworkers, or bosses on a regular basis. Accept constructive criticism and seize the chance to get better. Assess your performance frequently, pinpoint your areas for growth, and make targets. You’ll increase your performance and go above and beyond expectations if you welcome criticism and dedicate yourself to constant growth.

Strategy 9: Establishing enduring business connections

Collaboration, support, and improved performance are all fostered through developing solid relationships in the workplace. Make connections with colleagues and look for chances to work on projects together. Create mentoring connections to receive insightful advice. In every engagement, show professionalism, respect, and honesty. By cultivating solid business ties, you’ll establish a positive work atmosphere that inspires initiative and boosts output.

Strategy 10: Extending Yourself

Go above and beyond your given obligations to make a statement and increase your chances of receiving a bonus. Take the initiative to suggest new initiatives or areas for improvement. Look for chances to demonstrate your abilities and accept new obligations. Show commitment, dependability, and a solid work ethic. Show people you care about them and the planet. You’ll put yourself in a position for success and raise your chances of receiving a well-deserved bonus by continuously providing great outcomes and leaving a lasting impression.

It takes a determined and focused effort to improve performance and receive a bonus. You may achieve success at work by putting these 10 tried-and-true tactics into practice: goal planning, time management, communication skills, continual learning, work-life balance, positive mentality, stress management, feedback, professional connections, and going above and beyond. Keep in mind that sustained performance needs persistent effort, attention, and a commitment to personal development; it is not an overnight success. Accept these tactics, put them into practice regularly, and watch your performance soar as you get the well-deserved bonus and accomplish your professional objectives.

The Science of Learning: Maximizing Retention and Engagement with E-learning Software

Green Tech and Gadgets

Bhok Thompson

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June 5, 2023

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teaching software — *With the help of software you can learn how to fly a solar plane or build a fully automated greenhouse.*

Developing courses with long-term student engagement and meaningful learning outcomes is challenging for educators and trainers. How can you ensure your students retain the skills they learn or remember what they’re taught? One solution could be e-learning software. E-learning software provides users an interactive environment to better engage with content, allowing them to use their personal techniques to comprehend the material. With its ability to offer multimedia elements such as visuals, animations, and audio recordings in addition to text and videos, learners are able to gain more out of their educational experience—improving knowledge acquisition effectiveness and recalling aptitudes for longer periods. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages that come from using e-learning software for learning retention and engagement.

Interactive and multimedia content:

E-learning software like LMS LatitudeLearning has revolutionized the way we learn by incorporating interactive and multimedia content that makes learning more engaging and enjoyable. Videos, animations, quizzes, and simulations are just a few tools used to capture learners’ attention while helping them retain information. Online education is no longer a monotonous experience with activities that read like a textbook; instead, it is a dynamic and engaging environment that emulates a classroom experience. With the ability to learn at your own pace and interact with the material in a variety of ways, e-learning software has become an excellent resource for learners of all ages who want to acquire new knowledge and skills more efficiently.

Personalization:

The world of e-learning is constantly evolving, and one of the most exciting developments is the use of data analytics and artificial intelligence to personalize the learning experience for each student. Imagine logging into an online course and having the content tailored specifically to your interests and learning style – this is the future of education. By using personalized learning, e-learning platforms can keep learners engaged and motivated, leading to better retention and overall success. It’s a win-win for both learners and educators, and the possibilities are endless.

Gamification:

Oceansky, From 2024, Swedish company OceanSky Cruises will fly elite passengers in a sustainable, floating five-star hotel that’s lighter than air. — *Hydrogen gas is endless and available and a green energy contributing to a carbon-free future. Storage tanks can be sent like drones if you have software controllers to drive them from afar.*

Gamification has become a popular tool used in e-learning software to make learning fun and engaging. This approach makes use of gaming elements such as badges, points, and leaderboards to reward learners for their successes and provide motivation for continued learning. The act of earning badges and seeing one’s name at the top of a leaderboard can give learners a sense of accomplishment, driving them to keep pushing themselves to achieve their learning goals. It’s no wonder why gamification has become such a popular trend in e-learning software, with its ability to enhance the learning experience and keep learners motivated.

Flexibility:

In today’s fast-paced world, people are constantly on the move, requiring learning solutions that fit their busy lifestyles. E-learning software offers such a solution by allowing learners to access course material at any time, from any location. This feature mainly benefits individuals who lead hectic lives and may struggle to attend face-to-face classes. The ability to work through coursework at their own pace allows students to take ownership of their learning, ensuring that they fully comprehend the material before moving on to the next module. The freedom to learn at a time and pace that suits them best can also lead to increased motivation and engagement. E-learning’s flexibility is a game-changer, enabling busy learners to fully embrace education without sacrificing other commitments.

Collaborative learning:

Mayu team Elad Erdann(center), Shay Eden (left), Ze'ev Zohar — *This team has cracked the code on how to make spring water*

Collaborative learning is an innovative approach that uses technology to encourage learners to work together towards a mutual goal. E-learning software with collaborative features allows students to engage with peers and instructors in novel ways, creating a sense of community that keeps learners motivated and invested in their studies. In collaborative learning, learners can learn from others, gain new perspectives, and participate in group discussions. This type of learning strengthens cognitive skills and fosters communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. By working together, learners can achieve greater academic success while also developing valuable skills applicable beyond the classroom.

Immediate feedback:

E-learning has revolutionized how we learn, providing numerous benefits such as flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to learn at our own pace. One of the most significant advantages of e-learning software is the immediate feedback that learners receive. This feature is beneficial in identifying areas where learners need to improve and making corrections in real time. With immediate feedback, learners can correct their mistakes immediately, reinforcing the right behaviors and helping learners stay engaged with the subject matter. This way, learners know exactly where they stand, allowing them to focus on their weaknesses and achieve their learning goals more effectively. All in all, immediate feedback is a huge game-changer that can make learning more engaging, effective, and enjoyable.

The success of e-learning software as an educational tool is further bolstered by its ability to provide learners with a more engaging and personalized experience. Through features such as multimedia content, personalization algorithms, and gamification, e-learning software can create an experience tailor-made to suit an individual user’s learning preferences. When used alongside traditional teaching methods, the use of e-learning software can significantly enhance learning retention and engagement. As technology continues to evolve, new tools and features will likely be developed to improve the learning experience offered by e-learning software. This means that not only will learners have access to better resources, but educators will also benefit from delivering ever more interactive and effective courses online. Ultimately, e-learning software provides a valuable tool for creating an enjoyable yet educationally beneficial environment for instructors and students.

Postgraduate Study: How to Balance Employment & Education

Good Job

Bhok Thompson

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June 1, 2023

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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*

Balancing professional employment with the pursuit of higher education can be a challenge – particularly if you are working full-time! Of course, if you are employed full-time, your work commitments are likely to already take up the majority of your weekly schedule. Most full-time employees are expected to work for a minimum of 40 hours a week – if not more, especially in cases where complying with requests for ‘reasonable overtime’ by the employer is stipulated in the employment contract.

As such, it can be difficult to juggle the completion of a higher education qualification with existing professional commitments. However, slotting postgraduate study into your already busy schedule is one that will pay off in the long term. With dedication, planning, and by effectively managing your time, attaining a postgraduate qualification whilst working full-time is achievable.

Nonetheless, if you do plan to study while working, you also need to ensure that you are taking care of yourself. Keep reading for our guide on how to balance professional work and education, as well as the best techniques to employ to ensure you do not burn out from exhaustion and overcommitment!

Postgraduate Qualifications: Why Higher Education is Worth Pursuing

nurses in a circle, studying classes together — *Some nursing and healthcare profession courses can be taken online*

If you have been considering pursuing a postgraduate qualification, you will perhaps already be familiar with the many benefits of higher education. You may, however, not realise how easy it is to complete a postgraduate degree through online learning. Importantly, there is a multitude of postgraduate online courses that are available, readily accessible, and quite literally just waiting for you to enrol! Of course, you will need to be able to access the course materials digitally. But with the majority of prospective students already in possession of either a desktop computer or laptop, this shouldn’t be an issue for most people.

Needless to say, you likely already know that the benefits of postgraduate study are abundant – personally, financially, and professionally. But perhaps most importantly, completing a postgraduate degree opens up doorways to opportunities that are often not accessible without one. If you are aspiring to pursue a lucrative career in academia, for example, a postgraduate qualification is essential.

Luckily, with various programs offered by Berry College and similar trusted institutions, gaining access to a higher level of education has never been more achievable. Many of these programs are also designed to accommodate working professionals with flexible schedules.

Managing Your Time: How to Make Combining Professional and Study Commitments Work For You

coding engineering in green mba — *Coding like the planet depends on it*

Once you have enrolled in your online course, you will usually be sent virtual links to the coursework material, to complete in your own time. Studying the course outline at the beginning of your study period will assist immensely in planning out your schedule for the duration of your studies, and will ensure that you can meet the course requirements within the timeline of your degree. Choosing flexible study arrangements – such as studying on a part-time basis, for instance – may make this more manageable, and more achievable for you.

Of course, you will still need to be wary of pre-determined assessment and assignment due dates, as there are hefty penalties for late submissions. This is why it is crucial to manage your time well, throughout your study period. On this subject, it is also important to note that your university study period will vary dependent on your selected educational institution. To clarify, university study periods are usually divided into either semesters or trimesters, or even, a combination of the two!

In addition, you will also need to stay on top of the key study areas – which are usually delivered both thematically, and chronologically. That is to say, the study themes throughout your course will generally each be assigned to a certain week of the semester or trimester. You will be given that particular week to complete readings that relate to the week’s theme or study area. It is of course essential to keep up with the weekly readings, as the related themes are usually discussed and analysed in that particular week’s lectures and tutorials.

Avoiding Burnout: How to Regulate Your Stress Levels When Working and Studying at the Same Time

Needless to say, self-care techniques are essential when you have a lot on your plate. Overcommitting to professional, study and personal activities can take its toll on your energy levels. You can start to experience exhaustion, fatigue, and even burnout! That is why looking after your health when you are working and studying at the same time is crucial to your well-being.

This means not only regulating your mental state by ensuring that your stress levels are manageable but also, taking care of your physical health. You can achieve this by doing daily exercise, as well as consuming a healthy and balanced diet. Of course, it is equally important to rest. Your body needs downtime to recover, refuel and recharge your batteries. As such, it is highly recommended that on top of all your existing activities, you also make sure that you schedule some relaxing, quiet time for yourself.

Undoubtedly, if you commit to postgraduate study while also working at the same time, you will feel a considerable amount of pressure! However, by managing your time and planning out the course milestones throughout your study period, you can get it done. Most importantly, once you have completed your postgraduate degree, the benefits will be worth it – particularly in terms of career opportunities that will be opened up to you.

Meet Istanbul treehugger and journalist Gökçe Uygun

Act

Karin Kloosterman

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May 31, 2023

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One thing I have noticed over the years while working as a sustainability reporter and editor: we are rarely interviewed by other media despite being experts in our field. It might have something to do with competition in the media, but I’d rather think that we just tend to forget the obvious. We were happy to meet Gökçe Uygun on a social media forum concerned about making Istanbul “eco” and what’s a better way to know Istanbul’s sustainability scene than through a curious reporter.

Gökçe Uygun, 42, and based in the Kadıköy neighborhood of Istanbul is a journalist working for the Gazete Kadıköy (a local newspaper of the Kadıköy Municipality) for the last 13 years. We have some questions for her and here is what she says:

1. Tell us about the environment movement in Turkey? What’s happening? What should we care about?

There are many organizations in Turkey, locally and globally (such as Greenpeace, Turkey).

Uncontrolled mining activities, hydropower plants, reduction of green areas in cities during urban transformation processes, air pollution (especially in metropolitan cities), pollution of the Marmara Sea, the government’s Canal Istanbul Project. Environmentalist organizations and local people are fighting against these kinds of issues.

2. What are your three favorite projects or ideas that are happening? Can you tell us a little more about them?

First; there is a ‘Repair Club’. It’s an Istanbul based social enterprise. They have great projects.

Second Meatless Monday.

Third, Plastbanta (a plastic detox & diet in Swedish)

3. What are the 3 biggest environmental problems in Turkey?

The destruction of forests and water resources, a decrease in green areas, people’s bad habits… some people throw their trash to the streets, still. Can you believe that?!

*Gökçe Uygun for Green Prophet. Image by Gürbüz Engin, 2023.*

4. How are people dealing with these issues, the government?

First of all I would like to say that it’s very difficult to be an environmentalist in Turkey. Remember the Gezi Park protest… a few people were killed and many injured; some people are still in prison just because they defended trees. So environmentalists are fighting with demonstrations in the field and on the legal side.

ali-asli-buyuknohutcu-manset — *Turkish couple murdered for trying to save the land they loved*

5. What are the best ways for tourists to experience an eco-friendly day out in Istanbul? Any activities?

If you’re a tourist and take a eco-friendly day out in Istanbul I suggest you visit Kadıköy. Because Kadıköy’s people are very aware about these issues and also the Kadıköy Municipality offers many options. You can start your day with a vegan breakfast. Then shopping Kadıköy Municipality’s zero waste shop. Also you can visit Kadıköy Municipality’s Ecological Life Centre where you can take part some activities. Besides, you can shop at the flea market.

6. If you had a 1 billion Euros to invest in Istanbul what would you do?

I would spent it on public transport. Because there are too many private cars. This investment would reduce that. Also I would give a bicycle to everyone : )

7 . Nature is such a big part of Turkey. Is there any nature tourism around Istanbul

Gökçe Uygun, treehugger — *Treehugger Gökçe Uygun. Image by Gürbüz Engin, 2023.*

Yes I guess so. There are some groups/travel companies making trekking tours to Istanbul’s ponds, forests

8. Where do sustainability people hang out and what do they do?

They’re mostly vegan people at the same time. So they have their community. For example ı know a vegan group who organise a vegan picnic once a month in Kadıköy. They try to lead a sustainable life; buy second hand clothes, furniture, or swap them, separate their garbage, don’t use plastic bags.. etc.

9. What inspired you to become an environmental reporter?

Actually we can’t say I am just an environmental reporter. I cover stories about any issue. But of course I really care about environmental correspondence and I focus on it from time to time.

10. Did you study?

I graduated from Marmara University in Journalism

11. Tell us about yourself growing up…were you a city kid or a country kid?

Oh, unfortunately I was totally a city kid. I was born and grew up in Istanbul — such a metropolis. My mum didn’t used to let me play at outside. I didn’t have much of a relationship with nature, until I became an adult. Now I realize the value of nature and I am in love with it.

Why are orcas sinking boats in Spain?

Animals

Karin Kloosterman

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May 30, 2023

0

Orcas have been targeting and sinking boats off the coast of Spain, and scientists aren’t quite sure why.

Orcas (Orcinus orca) otherwise known as killer whales have sunk three boats off the Iberian coast of Europe in the last few years, and this naughty behavior towards humans and their watercraft seems to be spreading. It’s as though one mad orca is teaching the others how to revenge role-play.

Biologists first noted the trend happening in 2020 and back then they suspected it to be a defensive behavior, which started with a female orca nicknamed White Gladis after she experienced an unknown trauma. She may have been trapped in a fishing net or hit by a boat.

Iberian orcas are critically endangered, and only 39 were recorded in the last census, in 2011.

On May 25, orcas severely damaged a sailing boat off the coast of Spain, according to local maritime rescue service said on Thursday, adding to the list of dozens of orca attacks on vessels recorded so far this year on Spanish and Portuguese coasts.

In the recent attack a group of orcas broke the rudder and pierced through the hull of a sailing boat on its way to Gibraltar. The crew of four contacted Spanish authorities for help, a spokesman for the maritime rescue service said.

Is the mother teaching her calves?

“There were two smaller and one larger orca,” skipper Werner Schaufelberger told the German publication Yacht. “The little ones shook the rudder at the back while the big one repeatedly backed up and rammed the ship with full force from the side.”

In 2022, there were 207 reports of orca attacks, with 20 reports in the month of May this year alone.

Scientists speculate that a traumatized orca started assaulting boats after a “critical moment of agony” and that this behavior is being taught to other orcas among the population through social learning. In fewer words: orcas are teaching “it’s payback time.”

After 500 attacks starting in 2020 there have been 3 sunken ships.

“The reports of interactions have been continuous since 2020 in places where orcas are found, either in Galicia or in the Strait,” says orca researcher Alfredo López Fernandez, a biologist at the University of Aveiro in Portugal and a representative of the Atlantic Orca Working Group.

“The orcas are doing this on purpose, of course, we don’t know the origin or the motivation, but defensive behavior based on trauma, as the origin of all this, gains more strength for us every day,” López Fernandez, who authored a paper about the behavior, said.

“We do not interpret that the orcas are teaching the young, although the behavior has spread to the young vertically, simply by imitation, and later horizontally among them,” he added, noted that this can be a “fad” behavior that may just pass in time.

In other maritime events, the rare monk seal sighting in Israel continues. Yulia left Jaffa and was last see in Rishon, south of the city of Tel Aviv.

China is using satellites to protect nature

Nature

Karin Kloosterman

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May 30, 2023

0

China is using satellites to protect nature

Donghu Lake, Wuhun China — *China is using satellites to protect nature. But why so secretive? Donghu Lake, Wuhun, China*

China is one of the first countries to use satellite monitoring to protect nature-conservation areas from illegal developments, such as mining and construction, offers a new report in Nature. China, which has deployed spy balloons over parts of North America, has also added a fleet of 30 satellites to keep a watchful eye on 3 million square kilometres of land and 150,000 square kilometres of sea, doubling the area that is legally protected in China. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) counts China as the third most-biodiverse country in the world.

Scientists in essence hope that China will provide a model for remote sensing for conservation purposes. However, environmental scientists are frustrated owing to the lack of transparency about where the boundaries of protected zones lie.

Without any public record, the opposite of what NASA offers, “there’s a possibility that the local governments might be able to shift their redlines to accommodate future [development] needs,” says conservation biologist Fangyuan Hua in a Nature report.

China is not the first to deploy satellites to protect nature. NASA has been using their systems for decades, monitoring climate change globally, and letting us see the recession of water bodies such as the Dead Sea. Their open-source imagery goes from looking at the macro to even smaller anthropogenic parts of our history. Independent researchers look to Google Earth to uncover illegal fishing traps in the Middle East. Also hundreds of agriculture tech companies use open-source satellite imagery to predict bug infestations, droughts and fires.

The worry with China is that the country is veiled about how it uses its data to control its people and exploit planetary resources without any consequence.

Olive oil coffee trends in the Middle East

Food

Karin Kloosterman

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May 30, 2023

0

Olive oil coffee trends in the Middle East

oleato brewed coffee with olive oil — *Oleato coffee is a new coffee made with olive oil. Find it now in Saudi Arabia.*

The Middle East has its own specific coffee culture and methods for brewing Turkish black coffee in a finjan. Taking your time, great hospitality and a sprinkle of cardamon is part of the story, and with everything in the Middle East, every good recipe includes a dash of love. A new intersection of two essential ingredients, a staple for food (as oil and fruit) and a much-loved drink have come together at Starbucks in the United States and now in the Middle East. The latest marriage? Coffee with olive oil. This follows on the heels of a global trend that made a spoon of butter in your coffee a regular thing. And olives (there are over 100 varieties around the world) are a staple of the Mediterranean Diet.

If you grew up with a British parent, dipping buttered toast in tea gave you a primer for butter in coffee or olive oil in coffee. Now Middle Easterners are starting to enjoy the newest coffee beverage – a coffee infused with extra virgin olive oil. The new ‘Oleato’ line is available at Starbucks in Italy, and is now found in new locations in Saudi Arabia.

The CEO of Starbucks, Howard Schultz, was inspired to being great coffee to America after visiting Milan in the 80s. A shot of espresso, consumed at a counter in a cafe (not as take-away) is a part of the Italian tradition. Milan inspired Schultz to bring the Italian coffee experience to Starbucks starting in the US, and which today has 36,000 outlets globally.

Now Starbucks, vying for coffee lovers attention, and an experience easily replicated at home with consumer-focused espresso machines, is looking for new markets. Olive oil is the latest offering.

“Today I feel just as inspired as I did 40 years ago, Oleato has opened our eyes to fresh new possibilities and a transformational way to enjoy our daily coffee,” Schultz said. “Oleato represents the next revolution in coffee that brings together an alchemy of nature’s finest ingredients – Starbucks arabica coffee beans and Partanna cold pressed extra virgin olive oil.”

Adding oil to coffee isn’t new. It’s known that fat reduces the acidity and bitterness of coffee. Non-dairy creamers, a product that many people are already used to, is usually made from vegetable oil. People have been adding butter, coconut oil and MCT oil (medium-chain triglycerides) to coffee for over 10 years for a “bulletproof” coffee that keeps you satiated until lunch. Skipping breakfast is a Mediterranean thing.

You can find a Starbucks and try the olive oil blend or make your own olive oil coffee at home.

How to make your own olive oil cappuccino

Ingredients:

6ox of strong coffee, brewed in a pour-over, or espresso machine
1.5 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil

Add coffee and olive oil to a blender, preferably a powerful blender like a Vitamix. You want to emulsify the oil and coffee together. Blend until a bit frothy but watch out not to burn yourself. You can add sweetener if you need it. We prefer coconut sugar which is better for your body.

And if you want to just brew the old-fashioned way, we’ve put together a how-to brew with a finjan. Serve in small cups.

Finjan coffee, Turkish coffee — *Middle East coffee from a finjan*

How to Build and Design a Cost-Effective Backyard Kitchen

Architecture

Bhok Thompson

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May 28, 2023

0

Outdoor kitchen built with recycled materials — Outdoor kitchens are inside gardens, greenhouses or on your favorite patio space. They are green, sustainable and liveable.

An outdoor kitchen is a great way to upgrade your backyard space, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, building an outdoor kitchen on a budget is possible with intelligent planning and creative thinking.

Backyard Kitchen Tips and Ideas

An outdoor kitchen is a great way to expand the usable square footage of your property and get more enjoyment out of your backyard during the spring, summer, and early-fall months.

Here are some tips and ideas for building an outdoor kitchen without breaking the bank.

Plan Carefully

Take the time to thoroughly plan out your design before you start building. Consider factors like the location, size, layout, and functionality of your outdoor kitchen. A well-thought-out plan can save you from expensive mistakes or changes down the line. (And when you consider that “ownership costs” are often the biggest long-term expense, this is huge.)

Do it Yourself (As Much as Possible)

Tiny house kitchen on the patio — *If you have a tiny house you can swing open a couple of doors to bring the inside out. Keep perishables and spices locked up so critters and animals can’t snack on the jam at night.*

If you’re handy, have you thought about doing some (or all) of the work yourself? This can significantly cut down on labor costs (which typically represent a big chunk of the overall project costs).

If you decide to DIY the project, make sure you’re comfortable with any tasks you take on. For some things, like electrical or gas line work, it’s always going to be safer to hire a professional. Don’t cut safety corners just to save a few bucks. Pay for the professional and then use your time to focus on things that you can reasonably handle (like finishing work or landscaping).

Step into Style: Enhance Your Outdoor Kitchen with French Doors

French doors in a tiny home — *French doors can be made to look modern and give a tiny sustainable home a grand look.*

Installing new exterior doors is another way to seamlessly blend your indoor and outdoor spaces. These doors, known for their aesthetic appeal and functionality, can serve as a stylish entrance to your outdoor kitchen. They not only allow easy access but also let in plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

When choosing the right model for your house, the vital factors to consider are:

Manufacturer. Exterior French doors Canada made are usually the best when it comes to meeting industry standards, boosting thermal performance and adding aesthetics.
Quality materials. You can choose anything from wood to steel or fibreglass but make sure it adds to the rest of your house design and energy efficiency.
Type of glass. Select from clear, frosted, or even stained glass inserts. The key factor here is to balance your house’s privacy and natural light.
Energy efficiency. Since French doors come with a lot of glass, buying and installing those models with high energy ratings (ER) is essential, so you save on energy bills in the long run.

Also, think about the door’s design and how it complements the overall style of your house and outdoor kitchen. Remember, while French doors can be a bit more expensive than standard doors, they can significantly enhance the value and appeal of your home. If you’re handy, you might even consider installing them yourself to save on labour costs. However, it might be worth hiring a professional for a perfect fit and finish.

Choose the Right Materials

You don’t always need the most expensive materials for your outdoor kitchen. For example, concrete or tile is a more affordable option for countertops than granite or marble. (And, again, it’s going to cost less to maintain over time.)

Likewise, you might consider using reclaimed or recycled materials for parts of your construction. You can find materials at local salvage yards, building surplus stores, and secondhand shops. Home improvement stores also have occasional outdoor living sales.

Start Small

You don’t need an outdoor kitchen fit for a Michelin star chef. If you ever reach that level of skill, then, by all means, add any and every appliance you possibly can. But for now, focus on keeping a small footprint and aiming for quality over quantity. That means getting things that provide versatility and functionality.

A great example of this is an outdoor grill island with a side burner.

“The double power burner is an excellent choice to boost cooking capacity,” RTA Outdoor Living explains. “You can have two pots or pans going while you are grilling burgers. This is perfect for making sauces and side dishes to complement the main component of your meal.”

While a grill island with a side burner is great, you probably don’t need three or four different types of grills (at least not when you’re starting out). Be smart and discerning!

The Cost of Your Outdoor Kitchen

The cost to build an outdoor kitchen can vary significantly based on the size, materials, appliances, and your geographical location. It’s important that you take the time to budget properly, research the equipment and layout you want, and use discretion to avoid letting scope creep turn a reasonably priced outdoor kitchen build into an expensive mess that prevents you from enjoying it.

With that being said, a basic outdoor kitchen with a small counter and a decent grill will probably land you in the $3,000 to $5,000 range (on the minimum side of things). A more elaborate setup with high-end appliances, custom design elements, plumbing and electrical work, built-in seating, high-quality materials, and professional installation could easily reach upwards of $15,000 to $30,000 or more.

That’s obviously a pretty wide spread of costs, which is why it’s critical that you come up with your own plan and connect with experts in your area who can guide you through the process.

Adding it All Up

When you put it all together, there’s something exciting about building an outdoor kitchen. It gives you a chance to invest in something that your family will get years of enjoyment out of. And if you follow the tips outlined above, you’ll have a much more rewarding experience. Enjoy!

Effective Ways for Pet Parents to Manage Dog Skin Infections

Animals

Bhok Thompson

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May 28, 2023

0

oet on a picnic — *Your pet is part of the family. Regular checkups can keep her skin healthy.*

Your job as a pet parent is to ensure the health and well-being of your canine companions. Unfortunately, dogs can be prone to a variety of skin infections, leading to itching, scratching, and distress.

Knowing how to protect your dog with skin conditions and effectively manage these annoying conditions is an essential part of ensuring your dog’s happiness and health. We’ve compiled this list of strategies and interventions you can employ in your daily life to help prevent dog skin infections, promote healing and prevent future flare-ups.

Hygiene and regular grooming

A regular grooming regimen and hygiene will benefit your dog’s skin infections. Regularly brushing your dog’s coat to remove loose fur helps prevent matting. Matting provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to skin infections.

Regularly bathing your dog with a skin infection with a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo specially formulated for dogs can also go a long way to maintaining healthy skin and coat. Excessive bathing is not recommended as this can strip the skin of natural oils, making dog skin infections more likely.

Keeping your dog’s bedding clean and free from allergens like dust mites is vital in reducing skin infections.

A balanced diet

A healthy diet plays an essential role in managing and preventing skin infections. A well-balanced diet provides your best dog pal with all the vital nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. If you’re concerned that your dog isn’t getting adequate nutrition from its diet, consult your vet, who can determine the best diet for your dog.

A diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. You can feed your dog fatty fish or canine dietary supplements to ensure your pup gets all the Omega-3s it needs.

Avoid giving your dog human food and treats because these can contain ingredients that can trigger or worsen skin issues. Similarly, human dietary supplements shouldn’t be given to your dog as the dosages are usually inappropriate for dogs. Always check with your vet first before making and changes to your dog’s diet.

Manage allergies

Hipster dog dad — *This hipster dog dad feeds his pal vegan dog food and is on top of his best friend’s allergies*

Dog skin infections are often caused or exacerbated by allergies. Food, environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites, and contact allergens like fabrics or cleaning products can cause skin infections.

If you suspect your dog has an allergy impacting its skin, it’s best to work with your veterinarian to identify the potential allergen and work out a treatment plan for your dog.

Regular health check-ups

Many dog owners only visit the vet in an emergency or when something is wrong, but an important part of caring for a dog is to stick to a regular schedule of check-ups. Prevention is, after all, better than cure, and when it comes to paying vet bills, preventative care is more affordable than treatment for full-blown conditions.

Regular check-ups at the vet can help manage skin infections by allowing your vet to regularly assess your dog’s skin health, identify possible infections and underlying conditions, and recommend appropriate interventions. Vets like Brewerton Animal Hospital is dedicated to your pet’s health and happiness.

Parasite prevention, vaccinations, and health checks are important parts of avoiding the potential triggers of dog skin infections.

Early detection and treatment

It would be best if you tried to treat dog skin infections as early as possible. Inspecting your dog’s skin regularly for signs of redness, swelling, sores, rashes, and scratching is crucial. If you notice anything unusual, consult your vet as soon as possible.

Depending on the cause of the skin complaint, your vet may prescribe changes to your dog’s diet, oral or topical dog skin infection medicine, or even medicated dog shampoo. You must strive to stick to your veterinarian’s instructions as closely as possible and complete the entire course of treatment for your dog with a skin infection to ensure proper healing and minimize the chances of a recurrence.

Management of the environment

We’ve touched on the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for your dog to manage and prevent skin infections. Regular vacuuming will help eliminate any potential allergens, while frequent washing of bedding with a mild, fragrance-free detergent will also help to eliminate allergens.

Keep your dog’s living space dry and well-ventilated to keep bacteria and fungi from flourishing. Other things that can assist with the management of dog skin conditions include avoiding high temperatures and prolonged sun exposure, which can irritate any existing skin conditions.

Final thoughts

Dog skin infections can be annoying and frustrating for dogs and their humans. While they’re a common ailment among dogs, they are relatively easy to manage and treat with a few minor changes to your dog’s environment. Dogs with skin conditions will need different treatments depending on the underlying cause of the irritation, so it’s always best to seek veterinary care early on. But by implementing these simple measures, your dog can have a happier, healthier life free of skin infections.

Simple Strategies for Keeping Your Pet Clean

Animals

Bhok Thompson

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May 24, 2023

0

dog poop DNA — *Take care of your pets, sustainably*

Keeping your furry friend clean and healthy is essential for their overall well-being. Regular grooming and cleanliness not only ensure your pet looks their best but also helps prevent various health issues. It also keeps your house looking and smelling clean.

With that being said, here are some of the simplest things you can do to keep your pets looking clean and feeling healthy.

Regular Brushing

To keep your pet’s coat in top condition, start by selecting the appropriate brush for their breed and coat type. Different brushes, such as slicker brushes, bristle brushes, or deshedding tools, serve different purposes. Consult with your local veterinarian or an experienced pet groomer to figure out which brush is best for your pet.

Get into the habit of regular brushing sessions with your pet. This not only removes dirt and loose hair but also helps distribute natural oils, keeping their coat healthy and shiny. Shoot for at least five minutes of brushing every day (or every other day), depending on your pet’s needs. Make it a fun experience with plenty of “good boys” and treats.

Bathing Your Pet

When it comes to bathing your pet, opt for a shampoo specifically formulated for animals. Human soaps and shampoos can be harsh on your furry friend’s skin and strip away essential oils. Look for mild, hypoallergenic shampoos that cater to your pet’s needs, whether they have sensitive skin or specific skin conditions.

Before bathing, brush your pet to remove any tangles or mats. Use lukewarm water to wet their coat thoroughly, avoiding their eyes and ears. Apply the shampoo, lather gently, and rinse thoroughly. Be mindful of their body language and comfort throughout the process. Afterward, dry them with a towel or a pet-friendly hairdryer on a low heat setting.

You can also use natural herbal oils such as lavender to keep fleas at bay. Dilute the oil in something neutral and you can spray on bedding and snuggly toys to keep them away. The herbals won’t kill pests, just repel them.

Dental Care

Dental hygiene is crucial for your pet’s overall health. Introduce a dental care routine early on by brushing their teeth regularly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and pet-friendly toothpaste. Start with a small amount of toothpaste and slowly increase the length of the brushing sessions over time. Try for at least three to four brushing sessions per week as you build up.

In addition to regular brushing, provide dental chews and toys to help maintain your pet’s oral health. These products can assist in removing plaque and tartar buildup while keeping them entertained. Opt for chew toys specifically designed for dental care and consult with your veterinarian for recommendations based on your pet’s breed and size.

Nail Trimming

Regular nail trimming is crucial to prevent overgrowth, discomfort, and potential injuries for your pet. Familiarize yourself with the proper technique or seek guidance from a professional groomer or veterinarian. Use pet-specific nail clippers and trim the nails carefully, avoiding the quick—the sensitive part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a professional to avoid any accidents.

If your pet is anxious or unaccustomed to nail trims, introduce the process gradually and positively. Start by getting them comfortable with having their paws touched. Reward them with plenty of praise (and even treats) in order to create a positive association. Over time, you can introduce the nail clippers and clipping motion, taking it one paw at a time. Patience and a calm environment are key to a successful nail-trimming session.

Regular Cleaning of Bedding and Toys

Your pet’s bedding and blankets can harbor dirt, hair, and even odor. Wash them regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Use pet-safe laundry detergent, and consider adding vinegar and lavender to eliminate odors and repel bugs. Clean bedding ensures a comfortable and clean resting place for your pet.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Regular visits to the veterinarian are essential for your pet’s overall health and well-being. Your veterinarian will perform thorough check-ups, including examinations of the skin, coat, teeth, and overall physical condition. They can provide guidance on proper grooming techniques, recommend specific products, and address any concerns you may have.

Routine veterinary visits also allow for vaccinations and preventative care. Vaccinations protect your pet from various diseases, while preventative treatments like flea and tick control and heartworm prevention help maintain their health. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for vaccinations and preventative care based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Be a Responsible Pet Owner

Keeping your pet clean and healthy is a responsibility that comes with pet ownership. By incorporating these simple yet effective practices into your routine, you can ensure your furry friend looks their best, stays comfortable, and enjoys a healthy life.

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Postgraduate Qualifications: Why Higher Education is Worth Pursuing

Managing Your Time: How to Make Combining Professional and Study Commitments Work For You

Avoiding Burnout: How to Regulate Your Stress Levels When Working and Studying at the Same Time

Is the mother teaching her calves?

How to make your own olive oil cappuccino

Backyard Kitchen Tips and Ideas

Plan Carefully

Do it Yourself (As Much as Possible)

Step into Style: Enhance Your Outdoor Kitchen with French Doors

Choose the Right Materials

Start Small

The Cost of Your Outdoor Kitchen

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