Ivy League universities such as Harvard, Yale and Princeton are offering free online education to people looking to expand their knowledge and skills during the pandemic. While flexibility and accessibility are two major benefits of the program, the courses themselves are taught by renowned and experienced professors making the degree earned prestigious. The universities are offering courses in computer science,…
A new study has found that ferns could play a crucial role in the fight against climate change by capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere and soil through photosynthesis. The study published in the Environmental Science & Technology journal highlights the ability of ferns to sequester carbon in their roots, which is a more stable way of storing carbon…
Mushroom farmers are increasingly adopting sustainable practices to increase yields and protect the environment. Sustainable mushroom farming emphasizes environmentally-friendly techniques such as soil regeneration, renewable energy sources, and waste minimization. Benefits include reduced energy consumption, reduced waste, increased yields, and social responsibility. Sustainable practices include soil regeneration, renewable energy sources, water conservation, and waste minimization. Sustainable mushroom farming promotes environmental…
Recent studies have identified several mushroom species with potential therapeutic uses for a variety of health conditions. The Reishi mushroom, also known as the “king of mushrooms,” is believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties, while the Lion’s Mane mushroom can protect against cognitive decline and has antioxidants that can support the immune system. Furthermore, Cordyceps mushroom is believed to…
Lichen, a composite organism made up of fungi and algae, has potential as an effective antifungal agent, according to a new study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. The study, which evaluated seven different lichen extracts against four common fungal strains, found that all extracts inhibited fungal growth. The extract from lichen species Cladonia rangiferina was found to…
Moss is a versatile and resilient plant that can grow in harsh conditions with little water, low or no soil and extreme temperatures. Its adaptability makes it a vital and unique part of the ecosystem. Moss cleans and filters water, protects soil from erosion in forests, and creates microclimates that help other plants thrive. Moss also forms a symbiotic relationship…
Experts predict that this year’s autumn foliage across the United States will be even more spectacular than usual, with the first signs already visible in some states, including Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. The fall foliage season starts due to a combination of genetics, temperature, light and soil conditions. While climate can sometimes alter the dates, it usually begins with higher elevations and…
Sapling is a new plant-based meat that is created using bioreactors, which provide an optimal environment for cells to grow in. This results in meat that is sustainable and environmentally friendly, has health benefits, tastes and feels like real meat, and is cost-effective compared to traditional meat. Sapling’s approach to creating plant-based meat has the potential to revolutionize the food…
Shrubs are facing significant threats from climate change, including drought, higher temperatures, and shifting precipitation patterns. Urgent action is needed to protect these beneficial plants, which provide essential services such as carbon sequestration and habitat provision, and support human well-being through their cultural values and medicinal properties. Solutions to the climate change threats faced by shrubs can include reducing greenhouse…
Researchers from the University of Sao Paulo and the University of Campinas in Brazil have discovered a new species of understory plant in the Amazon rainforest. Named Hirtella abyssinica, the plant exhibits characteristics not seen in any other known species. The discovery is significant as it underscores the vastness of the Amazon rainforest, which houses an estimated 16,000 tree species and…