Looking For Love While Environmentally Conscious? Here’s How to Meet People Who Share Your Passion

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Are you looking for love but having trouble finding people who share your environmental values? If so, there’s good news – there are a lot of people out there in the world, and most likely, there are others out there who want the same things you do. The question is, how do you find those people?

How To Meet People Who Share Your Passion and Values

Here are some steps to take to meet people who share your passion and values related to the environment, lifestyle, relationships as a whole, and more:

green gift for loved ones

1. Know your needs and wants

First, you’ve got to know your wants and needs in a relationship. It doesn’t mean that you have to force yourself to nitpick, nor should you. Instead, it’s about the deal breakers that truly matter to you. Here are some examples:

  • “I need someone who cares about sustainability.”
  • “I need someone who is supportive of the time I spend on my activism/career/etc.”
  • “I need someone who also wants (or does not want) kids.”
  • “I need someone who has similar values to mine.”
  • “I need someone who is in agreement with me on (insert topic here).”

Jot your deal breakers down on a piece of paper. How do you want a partner to treat you, and what do you want your life to look like? As far as partners go, what qualities would align with that lifestyle, and what wouldn’t? Do you care that they take small steps toward environmental consciousness and are willing to learn? Knowing the answer to these questions alone can help you find what you’re looking for because you’ll have a clear view of what it is you want right in front of you.

2. Be upfront about what you’re looking for

You have to both know your needs and express them. With the pandemic, more and more people are heading to online dating and dating apps to find love, friends, and more. Dating apps might get a bad reputation, but one benefit of them is that your profile allows you to be upfront about what you want before the first conversation even starts.

3. Put yourself out there

You can’t meet people unless you put yourself out there. If you’re looking for someone with similar passions and values, one of the best things to do is to enter spaces where people share your passions and values. Again, if you’re on a dating app, it’s important to list what you’re looking for, but there are other ways to meet people, too.

Two of the best ways to do this are to join a group created for people with similar interests, whether that’s online or in person, or to get involved locally as a volunteer. There may be a volunteer organization or program related to environmentalism or sustainability in your area. Even if it results in friends rather than romance, it’s definitely something to look into!

A bonus: Volunteer work is said to boost both mental health and physical health, so if you meet people through this avenue, you’re doing something positive for your wellbeing, too.

4. Be safe when you meet up

When you meet someone that you connect with, feeling eager about the connection makes sense. However, it is imperative that you use dating safety tips. If you meet someone online, video chat with them first to confirm that they are who they say they are. Do not let a person know your home address or where you work right away, and if you’re meeting up with someone new or relatively new, make sure that a trusted friend or family member knows where you’re going.

green-living-seniors

Dating can be challenging, and whether you’re just starting your search or have found someone you’re interested in, it can bring up a lot of feelings. If you need someone to talk to, consider seeing a counselor or therapist.

Find A Therapist

Whether you’re struggling with dating and relationships or something else that’s on your mind, a therapist or counselor can help. To find a therapist, you can search the web, ask your doctor for a referral, contact your insurance company to see who they cover, or sign up for a reputable online therapy platform like BetterHelp. Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to get quality care from someone licensed in your state without the commute, making it an environmentally friendly option. Additionally, online therapy is often more affordable than traditional in-person services are without insurance. Regardless of how you find a therapist, you deserve to get the support you need. Don’t hesitate to take the first step and reach out or sign up today.

صحوة بيئية

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الخطر الذي يهدد الامن الصحي والبيئي للمجتمع المحلي في بيروت دفع المجتمع المدني البيئي لإعلان مواجهة إجراءات التخلص من النفايات عن طريق الحرق، ومن المعروف ان هذا الإجراء له مخاطره الصحية على الإنسان والبيئة، وسبق وكان للمجتمع المدني البيئي في البحرين موقفه المعارض لاعتماد هذا النظام الذي وجد إستجابة من الجهات العليا والمختصة في الشأن البيئي.

التحرك المدني البيئي في بيروت يمثل توجه مهم للتنوير البيئي وتعزيز الصحوة البيئية للمجتمع في مواجهة المشاريع المضرة بصحة الانسان ومحيطه البيئي، لذلك وجدنا ضرورة تسليط الضوء على التحرك البيئي في بيروت.

islam and nature

ان توجهنا في تسليط الضوء على التحرك البيئي جاء بناء على التعاون البيئي القائم مع  عضو في جمعية غرينبيس المتوسط (السلام الأخضر – البحر المتوسط) ومقرها بيروت سمير السعيد الذي زودنا ببيان إتلاف إدارة النفايات في بيروت بشأن التحرك، ويمثل ذلك تأكيد على الاهداف البيئية المشتركة، ويعزز مبدأ الشراكة في العمل البيئي العربي.

البيان يشير الى القواسم المشتركة في العمل البيئي العربي وتأكيدا على ذلك ننشر البيان كما وصلنا.

*دعوة: مسيرة في بيروت رفضاً للمحارق*

لأن المحارق هي الأخطر والأغلى والأكثر ضرراً على البيئة، يدعوكم ائتلاف ادارة النفايات الى مسيرة في بيروت رفضاً لاعتماد المحارق كحل لأزمة النفايات. الأربعاء ٢٩ آب ٢٠١٨، الساعة ٦:٣٠ بعد الظهر، الانطلاق من أمام بلدية بيروت.

islam and nature

لتكن أعدادنا كبيرة وأصواتنا مسموعة..انضموا الى المسيرة ووقعوا عريضة لبنانيون ضد المحارق!

ان اعتماد المحارق كحل لمعالجة النفايات هو أسوء خيار يمكن ان تلجأ اليه الادارات اللبنانية! فعلى الرغم من كل الدراسات التي تؤكد مضار الدخان والرماد المنبعثان من المحارق، وتأثيرهما على تلوث الهواء والبيئة وصحة الانسان، الا ان الحكومة اللبنانية  عازمة على بناء المحارق بذريعة انها الحل الأمثل لأزمة النفايات التي عانى منها اللبنانيون طوال السنوات الماضية. وقد أعلنت بلدية بيروت بشكل رسمي انها ذاهبة بهذا الاتجاه في القريب العاجل، وستلحقها بعد ذلك بلديات أخرى.

الحراك بوجه المحارق لن يقبل استهتارهم هذا بصحتنا وبيئتنا!

The Concept of Garden in Islamic Culture

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The Arabic words Hadiqah, riyad, janna, raudah refer to the garden in its classical sense, with different nuances. The words bustan, munia, ruzafa, buhaira, ‘ars refer to the large agricultural or leisure estates generally located on the periphery of towns. These terms and others go to show the diversity of meaning in the concept of garden in the Islamic culture.

garden in islamic culture

In Islamic Culture, the garden is above all the essence of elements of Creation: Creation itself is a garden. This garden is at the heart of all the flowering Islamic civilization: beauty, mathematics, architecture, spirituality, poetry, botanic sensibility, hydraulics, biodiversity… But at the same time it also hides the secret of Islam, and all the gifts in this world and in the next: contemplation, peace, gratitude, conviviality, sensuality and including eternal rest.

Undeniably, the Islamic garden has been enriched by numerous influences over the centuries, especially those coming from the Nabatean and Persian civilisations. However, it is incorrect to think that the spiritual and conceptual nucleus of the Islamic garden is of foreign influence.

The presence of water, the fragrances, the shade, the fruits within reach of a hand and the pavilions of leisure offer more than just a charming visual spectacle. They transcend this: they offer a rich interpretation of The Sacred Book, the Prophetic traditions and the Sufi works.

There is no doubt that the idea of the garden as a representation of the spiritual garden or Paradise is not new. 2 700 AC the Babylonians described Paradise in the epic poem of Gilgamesh in this way: ‘In these immortal gardens stands a tree… this tree is next to a sacred spring’.

It is also notable the symbolism of the garden in Genesis as synonymous with Paradise, although it was possibly the Persians who most nurtured spirituality in the garden, being as they were the forerunners of landscaping in the Islamic world. It is used in the same way in the Quran more than 120 times: ‘Whoever obeys God and his Chosen One will be chosen to live in gardens beneath which flow rivers, and where they will live eternally’ (Quran 4:13).

concept of garden in islam

The Garden is above all the essence of elements of Creation

The Garden in capital letters is seen repeatedly in the Prophet’s Sunnah. In a Hadith the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) told: ‘The greatest door to the Garden is the awareness of Allah and good character.’

However, the garden in its spiritual meaning is more than merely a recreation or imagination of the Garden of the Hereafter. It is associated with death, or eternal rest, as is apparent from the name given to a cemetery (rauda, one of the terms for garden). It also embodies the flowering of the human spirit, as seen in the word Raudiyah, or the discipline to educate the soul until it transforms into a fragrant garden which offers flowers and fruits.

For this reason it is not unusual for Muslims to use the term ‘win the Garden’ between themselves, referring to the spiritual wealth associated with seeking perfection in behaviour.

Can Nature Be A Tool For Those With Personality Disorders?

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Personality disorders are more common than one might expect. While we don’t have the exact number, statistics looking at the past-year prevalence of personality disorders among adults from 2001-2003 found that 9.1% of the population experienced a personality disorder when the data was taken. But, what exactly are personality disorders? How are they treated, and can nature be used as a tool for those who are struggling with personality disorders and other concerns?

Therapeutic Benefits Of Nature

What Are Personality Disorders?

To start, what are personality disorders? Personality disorders are characterized by ongoing patterns of maladaptive behavior, affect, and cognition. Every personality disorder has different symptoms and criteria for diagnosis.

Most personality disorders are grouped into one of three clusters. Those clusters include Cluster A, which is characterized by odd or eccentric actions and thought patterns, Cluster B, which is characterized by unpredictability and intense or volatile emotionality, and Cluster C, which is characterized by fearful or anxious thoughts and behavioral patterns.

Note that having these traits on their own does not indicate that you have a personality disorder; personality disorders are diagnosed based on full sets of criteria that must be met, and they often have symptoms that overlap with other possible diagnoses, which is why it’s so crucial to see someone who is qualified to assess and diagnose individuals appropriately.

Outside of those three clusters, other personality disorder diagnoses may occur as well in some cases, such as other specified personality disorder or unspecified personality disorder. It’s common for those with personality disorders to face a number of different co-occurring or comorbid mental health conditions and concerns, such as anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. 

Treatment For Personality Disorders

Treatment for personality disorders varies based on the diagnosis a person has. For many disorders, treatment may include therapy, medication*, or a combination of both. Therapy can be a game-changer for those living with a wide range of mental health conditions, and it is the leading treatment for many mental health conditions.

Individual therapy, group therapy, and other forms of therapy can all be advantageous for those with personality disorders. Sometimes, inpatient, residential, or outpatient treatment programs are advantageous for those living with personality disorders and other mental health conditions, depending on their current needs.

Various modalities of therapy can be used to treat personality disorders, and the best line of treatment will depend largely on the specific diagnosis and the needs of the individual person. For example, DBT or dialectical behavioral therapy is a well-researched, non-invasive treatment that can help people with a large number of concerns, including borderline personality disorder (BPD), anxiety disorders, and more. DBT was created for BPD and is considered a leading treatment. Treatments for someone with a different disorder may be very different.

The best way to find the right treatment for you is to talk to a licensed medical or mental health provider, specifically one that specializes in your condition or concern. If you think you may have a personality disorder but aren’t sure, make sure to speak with a professional who is qualified to provide you with an adequate diagnosis, such as a psychiatrist.

As for nature, the act of being outdoors with no therapeutic intervention involved is not a treatment for personality disorders. However, it does come with an array of benefits that can be supportive for the health and wellness of anyone, including many people with mental health conditions.

*Please consult with your doctor or primary care provider (PCP) before considering any new medication options.

Therapeutic Benefits Of Nature

Nature offers an opportunity for grounding, mindfulness, and overall relief, which is just one reason why so many people seek it out and find advantages in spending time in nature. Here are some research-backed benefits of nature:

  • Relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety. Since many people with personality disorders experience a comorbid mental health condition such as anxiety or depression, this is a relevant consideration.
  • Lower blood pressure. There’s an increased risk of high blood pressure for those living with a variety of different mental health conditions, including some personality disorders, like BPD. Research indicates that outdoor activities can promote healthier blood pressure readings in some cases.
  • Better sleep. People with mental health conditions are often more likely to struggle with sleep. Spending time outdoors during the day can help you sleep. If you struggle with sleep on an ongoing basis, it’s important to talk to a professional who can help.

 

personality disorder and nature

Other benefits of nature include but aren’t limited to stress relief, increased concentration or focus, and more. So, can nature support your health? Absolutely, but it is not a replacement for seeing a therapist or any other medical or mental health provider. If you’re struggling or simply need someone to talk to, it’s imperative to reach out.

Find A Therapist

Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, life stress, or anything else that’s impacting your life, therapy can help. There are various ways to find a therapist. To find a therapist, you can search the web, contact your insurance company to see who they cover, ask your doctor for a referral, or sign up for a reputable online therapy platform with licensed providers such as BetterHelp. Regardless of how you find a therapist, you deserve to get the support you need, so don’t hesitate to start your search today.

How to Choose the Right Countertop for Your Modern Kitchen

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Your outdated kitchen is about to be a thing of the past! If you’re ready for a kitchen renovation, you’ve probably given a lot of thought to design and décor. But don’t get too comfortable yet; there’s a lot of materials you’ll need to choose and things you’ll need to do before demolition day.

Bringing your kitchen into the 21st century comes with a lot of fun decisions, like what kind of new cabinets, appliances, fixtures and the type of flooring you’ll choose. These are all important elements to consider, however, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make when you’re updating your kitchen is the type of countertop to have installed.

Deciding on the right countertop for your home is easier when you take a few important factors into consideration, including budget, style and durability. Great countertops come at all different price points, designs and levels of quality, so you will have to weigh all of your options before you make your final decision.

Do you need a heavy-duty countertop that will withstand careless cooks, hot pans and rough and tumble kids? Or how about a show-stopping beauty to really add luxury and value to your home? There’s a great modern solution for every homeowners needs, from natural stone materials at the high end like marble all the way down to super affordable solutions like laminate.

If you think you have an idea of what kind of countertop you like, but aren’t sure whether it will really work for your needs, a little research can go a long way. Kitchen countertop upgrades are a big decision and can last you the lifetime of your home if you choose wisely, so read on and we’ll give you some great tips to follow so you can start your project with confidence.

Consider Your Costs

Cost is one of the biggest factors when it comes to upgrading your kitchen, so make room in your budget for this essential addition. If you’re trying to flip a home, then there are many affordable laminate options to choose from that won’t break your budget.

Nowadays, laminate countertops have far more attractive finishes than they did decades ago, and could create a nice, temporary solution to modernizing a home. Tile is also another option, though many homeowners have shied away from tiled countertops due to how difficult grout lines are to keep clean.

If you’re really looking to get the best return on investment for your home, now or in the future, you’ll want to invest in a quality material like quartz. Engineered stone (quartz) comes in a variety of finishes these days that can mock the look of higher end materials. Quartz is designed to be super durable, and these type of countertops are becoming more and more sought after by home buyers. While quartz isn’t the least expensive option, it is more affordable than most natural stone and will still pack a real punch in terms of style and performance.

All in all, think about how you will be using these countertops to help you determine exactly how much of your budget you want to spend, and you’ll have an easier time deciding on materials.

Settle on a Style

If you’re looking to modernize your forever home, then the kitchen is a great place to make an investment. If style is what you’re looking for, then higher-end materials like marble, slate and quartz are going to be your go-to. Gleaming white marble, dark rich slate or sparkling quartz can add a level of luxury to your kitchen like no other material.

Deciding on your home décor style can also help you to figure out the type of countertops you should choose. If you’re trying to achieve a rustic, farmhouse style in your kitchen, then butcher block countertops could be an excellent style option.

If you want to create a sleek, minimalist look then poured concrete could be the right kitchen countertop surface for you. Want to create an industrial feel? There’s even stainless steel countertops for that. If you have a unique kitchen style that you are trying to achieve, then unique countertop materials can go a long way towards bringing that décor vision into full view. If you are still looking for more information on what type of countertop to choose please visit slabmarket to view a great selection of excellent modern options.

Decide on Durability

Marble countertops are beautiful, no doubt, but they require a lot of maintenance and care. Though they are the darlings of every TV home renovation show, marble countertops require regular sealing, and are easily stained, scratched and chipped.

If you know you’ll need to modernize your kitchen with countertops that can withstand some wear and tear, then you’ll want to pass on marble. Slate is also a soft, porous stone, but chips can easily be buffed out and darker finishes can help to mask staining. So if you’re set on updating your kitchen with natural stone, but know that it will get a lot of use, consider a darker finish for better long-term wear.

green-kitchen

When it comes to durability, quartz is one of the best options that homeowners can choose, and that’s because it was engineered that way. Consisting of about 90% natural stone and about 10% resins, quartz is resistant to scratching and chipping and retains its beauty from year to year, plus it’s less likely to chip, crack or break during the installation process. The only down side to choosing quartz is that its vulnerable to direct heat, unlike natural stone. If you decide to upgrade with a quartz countertop, be sure to keep trivets and pot holders at hand.

Choosing a new kitchen countertop is a big decision that homeowners shouldn’t take lightly. There’s a lot to consider beyond style, and you may decide after doing some research that the type of countertop material you thought you wanted isn’t really right for you.

Environmental Sustainability in Islam

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Islamic beliefs, traditions and values provide an effective and comprehensive solution to the current environmental challenges faced by the human race. Islam has a rich tradition of highlighting the importance of environmental protection and conservation of natural resources. According to Islamic law, the basic elements of nature – land, water, fire, forest, and light – belong to all living things, not just human beings.

The Holy Qur’an and Sunnah are a guiding light to promote sustainable development in Islamic countries as well as around the world. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) commands human beings to avoid doing mischief and wasting resources as these acts cause degradation of the environment. The privilege to exploit natural resources was given to the mankind on a guardianship basis, which implies the right to use another person’s property on the promise that it will not be damaged or destroyed.

Islam and environmental conservation

 

The Holy Qur’an and the Environment

The Holy Qur’an has a number of specific references to ecology and also contains some important principles for environmental conservation. The first principle which guides Islamic teaching on environmental sustainability is the concept of trusteeship. Being a khalifa (or guardian), a man should take all necessary steps to ensure that the entrusted property is passed on to the next generation in as pure a form as possible. According to Islam each man is the custodian of nature, and must live with harmony with other creatures. It is the duty of all Muslims to respect, nurture and care for the environment.

Corruption of all kinds, including environmental corruption, which includes industrial pollution, environmental damage, and reckless exploitation and mismanagement of natural resources are disliked by Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala).

Quran and environmental conservation

Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“And Allah loveth not those who do mischief” (Surat Al Ma’eda, verse 64)

“And do no mischief on the earth after it has been set in order: that will be best for you, if ye have Faith” (Surat Al A’raf, ‘the Heights’, verse 85)

Eat and drink: But waste not by excess, for Allah loveth not the wasters (Surat Al-A’raf 7: 31).

“And do good as Allah has been good to you. And do not seek to cause corruption in the earth. Allah does not love the corrupters”, (Surat Al Qasas 28:77)

“Children of Adam, dress well whenever you are at worship, and eat and drink (as we have permitted) but do not be extravagant: God does not like extravagant people.” (Surat Al-A’raf 7:31)

According to the Holy Qur’an, environmental conservation is a religious duty as well as social obligation, and not an optional matter. The exploitation of a particular natural resource is directly related to accountability and maintenance of the resource.

Quran and environmental conservation

The Hadith and the Environment

Hadiths or the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) also deal extensively with various aspects of environment including resource conservation, land reclamation and environmental hygiene. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) discouraged overconsumption, luxury and lavishness and encouraged moderation in all walks of life.

The most popular Hadith on environment states “The earth is green and beautiful and Allah has appointed you his stewards over it” which reiterates Quran teaching that human beings have been given the responsibility of guardianship over the natural environment.

The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) clearly forbade destruction of trees and crops even during war times as long as their existence remains advantageous to the enemy.  The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) gave high degree of importance towards sustainable cultivation of land, waste minimization, humane treatment of animals, preservation of natural resources and protection of wildlife. Some of the sayings of Prophet bless and Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) on environmental sustainability are:

“The world is beautiful and verdant, and verily God, be He exalted, has made you His stewards in it, and He sees how you acquit yourselves.” (Muslim)

“If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (sadaqah) for him.” (Bukhari)

 “Whoever plants a tree and diligently looks after it until it matures and bears fruit is rewarded,” (Musnad) 

The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) recognized that natural resources should not be overexploited or abused. In order to protect land, forests and wildlife, the Prophet created inviolable zones, known as Haram and Hima, in which resources were to be left untouched. Haram areas were drawn up around wells and water sources to protect the groundwater from overpumping. Hima applied to wildlife and forestry and designated an area of land where grazing and woodcutting was restricted, or where certain animal species (such as camels) were protected.

ecological hadith

Prophet Muhammed (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) established a hima to the south of Madina and forbade hunting within a four mile radius and destruction of trees or plants within a twelve mile radius. The creation of inviolable zones shows the importance placed by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) on sustainable use of natural resources and protection of wildlife and agricultural land.

Everything You Should Know About Thermophilic Composting

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Thermophilic composting of organic waste is getting increasing attention worldwide because of its ability to convert solid wastes into organic fertilizer within a short period of time. The thermophilic composting system consists of an enclosed reactor laced with a microbe-enzyme cocktail.

The commonly used microorganisms are naturally occurring bacillus sp., pseudomonas sp, bifidobacterium sp., lactobacillus sp., streptomyces sp., corynbacterium sp etc. Enzymes such as proteinase, keratinase, lipase and cellulose are employed to accelerate the aerobic digestion process.

what is thermophilic composting

Features of Thermophilic Composting

The most important feature of thermophilic composting process is its operating temperature range of 70 – 80 °C which eliminates all pathogens and harmful bacteria present in the waste stream, and activate the thermophilic enzyme thus shortening fermentation time.

During the thermophilic digestion process, complex organic waste is digested into simpler organic matter, which forms the backbone of quality organic fertilizer after 24 hours of processing in the digester.

Organic waste can be of animal or plant origin such as organic fraction of MSW, slaughterhouse waste, animal manure, food wastes, vegetable and fruit market wastes etc. The end product is odor-free and pathogen-free high-quality organic fertilizer.

compost cycle

Potential of Thermophilic Composting

The high rate of growth and consequent rise in solid waste generation makes it imperative on governments to make use of latest waste management technologies to manage wastes in a sustainable manner. Thermophilic composting is a promising innovation which can address a variety of solid waste management issues. A wide range of organic waste can be processed into organic fertilizer which can, in turn, be used for growing food and cash crops.

Organic fertilizer is important in the MENA region due to the sandy soils condition. Sandy soil has poor nutrient and water retention, which are vital for agriculture. With the use of organic fertilizer, the organic matter content will improve the fertility of soil and more sand space can be added value for sustainable farming activity.

Thermophilic Composting

The organic fertilizer produced can also be mixed with chemical fertilizers to produce “fortified organic fertilizer” which combines the benefits of both organic and chemical fertilizers. Such fertilizer is getting more popular because it is cheaper and environment-friendly compared to chemical fertilizers. In some countries around the MENA region, quality organic fertilizer is a scarce resource which is more expensive than chemical fertilizers.

The market adaptability of organic fertilizer allows it to be used both in organic farming and conventional farming because the quality organic fertilizer is able to bring in intangible benefits such as healthier soil which helps to lower down future fertilizing costs. This allows the producer to tap into both farming markets.

However the growth of organic farming is strongly dependent on the constant supply of organic fertilizers with consistent quality and big volume which can be ensured by introducing modern composting systems, like thermophilic composting.

Such systems are currently being used in Southeast Asia, Europe and North America on account of its ability to address environmental issues, generation of attractive business opportunities and promoting entrepreneurial initiative across the region.

3 DIY Ideas to Spruce Up Your Old Boat

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Sailing a boat has a load of benefits that some of us may not even be aware of. You know that it gives you a sense of freedom, being out in open waters. You may enjoy fishing or love sailing and relaxing after a long week of work; what better way is there than getting in your boat and forgetting about the everyday stress and just taking in the fresh air and loving every minute of it.

Your boat may also be like a second home to you, a place to enjoy quality time with your loved ones or have get-togethers with your closest friends. Boating does wonders for your health as well. The sea breeze is suitable for your lungs, and the peace you feel can eliminate a lot of the stress and anxiety you may be experiencing.

Because you treasure your boat, you would also want to keep it in top shape and make it feel more comfortable and pleasant to be in. Sprucing up your boat does not require you to hire professionals to get it done. There are some DIY projects you can try to make your boat look and feel good. You can also come up with ways to make it much easier to maintain. For example, you can replace a boat carpet with bedliner that you can do all on your own.

If you’re ready to get your DIY projects on the way, here are some you can do to spruce up your old boat.

DIY Ideas to Spruce Up Your Old Boat

1. Clean and repaint

Your boat’s exterior needs as much attention as its interior. So naturally, you would want it to look good on the outside, and to do that, you should start getting it cleaned up thoroughly. Cleaning up is not a difficult task, especially for the deck and the hull. However, it does require you to scrub with a suitable marine cleaner.

The proper way of doing this is to start cleaning from the top going downwards. Concerning repainting, you may want to hire the services of professionals who can best do the job, unless you have the expertise. Just the same, seeking advice from them will help, as they can tell whether repainting is necessary and ensure that the repainting job lasts.

2. Add mobile phone cradles and charging ports

We all know that everyone carries a mobile phone with them anywhere they go. As people get into the boat, they would typically stow their phone in the glove box, storage compartment, or just about anywhere they can set it on. Cell phone cradles are practical and convenient for everyone, including yourself.

They are cheap and easy to mount, come in various designs, and can be installed with adhesive, screws, or suction cups. They are practical and are convenient for everyone’s use. USB charging ports are another amenity your boat can use to ensure that your electronic gadgets are always fully charged wherever you are.

3. Refurbish your upholstery

Give your boat’s cabin a facelift and spruce it up by refurbishing your upholstery. You may visit a boat upholsterer and get them to take care of your worn-out cushions. However, cushions that have been deformed from a long time of usage may have to be replaced.

running-a-marina

There are many other DIY boat restoration ideas you can use to improve the look of your old boat. Adding even the most simple conveniences and keeping it clean can enhance its appearance and give it a fresh look and feel in order to make money out of your marine business.

القيمة المشتركة للشركات: الاتجاهات في عالم الشركات

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ماذا لو قامت الشركات بعمل جيد وكسبت المال في الآن نفسه ؟ يعتقد رواد الأعمال الذين يتبعون فكرة القيمة المشتركة للشركات أن بإمكانهم تحقيق ذلك. ويقول العديد من مؤيدي الفكرة  أنها ستعيد تعريف الرأسمالية وإحياءها . في هذا الإطار،  قام  كل من  الاستاذ بكلية الأعمال في جامعة هارفرد مايكل بورتر و المدير الإداري لشركة الاستشارات الاجتماعية للأثر الاجتماعي مارك كارمر بدراسة اتجاه القيمة المشتركة للشركات عام 2011 من خلال مقال بحثي بجامعة هارفرد، وتم خلاله تعريف القيمة المشتركة على أنها: جيل جديد من التفكير التجاري الذي يعزز الوضع التنافسي للشركة وتطوير المجتمع الذي يعمل فيه في آن واحد.

حملت المقالة عنوان “إنشاء قيمة مشتركة” وبدأت بمناقشة عالمية لفكرة كل من المؤلفَيْن. كما كتب المؤلفون أن الرأسمالية كانت في ورطة، وانخفضت الثقة بالشركات إلى أدنى مستوى على الإطلاق، كما  ساد الاعتقاد بين الناس على أنها قدمت ضررا يفوق نفعها.

وقالوا أن أحد أسباب أزمة الثقة هذه، هو أن الشركات كانت تميل إلى تحقيق أهداف قصيرة المدى وتجاهلت الآثار المترتبة على ذلك للمدى الطويل والاحتياجات الغير محققة في السوق.

جادل بورتر وكارمر أن الشركات يمكنها تغيير ذلك من خلال إنشاء القيمة المشتركة.

ما هي القيمة المشتركة

عرف كارمر وبورتر القيمة المشتركة على أنها: طريقة لخلق قيمة إقتصادية تضيف قيمة للمجتمع وتعالج تحديات إضافية.

و بالسير على هذا النهج يمكن للشركات إعادة تنظيم نجاحها مع التقدم الاجتماعي. وكما قالوا أن نهج القيمة المشتركة يمكنهم من العمل على القضايا الاجتماعية لخلق فرص اقتصادية تحقق الفوائد لكل من المجتمع والشركات ، علاوة  على توجيه  المجتمعات نحو إحداث  تغيير إيجابي. كما أنه لا يجب أن يحقق أحد أهداف القيمة المشتركة للشركات بشكل منفصل عن الآخر..

ويجب التنويه على أن القيمة المشتركة للشركات هو مفهوم يختلف عن المسؤولية الاجتماعية للشركات. حيث أن المسؤولية الاجتماعية تهتم أكثر بالأعمال الخيرية وتحمل مسؤولية المجتمعات بينما القيمة المشتركة للشركات تركز على كسب الأرباح بالتزامن مع تقليص الضرر الاجتماعي الناتج عنها. ولا يعني ذلك أن تحل القيمة المشتركة محل المسؤولية الاجتماعية، ولكن تضيف القيمة المشتركة على المسؤولية الاجتماعية اتخاذ إجراءات ايجابية كجزء لا يتجزأ من عمليات الأعمال اليومية بأنها تضيف قيمة لكل من المجتمع والشركات.

كيف يمكن للشركات إنشاء قيمة مشتركة؟

حدد كل من بورتر وكارمر ثلاث طرق يمكن للشركات من خلالها إنشاء قيمة مشتركة:

إعادة تهيئة المنتجات والأسواق

تتضمن الطريقة الأولى منتجات الشرطة وتشمل إعادة إنشاء أو تصميم المنتجات، بحيث تلبي الاحتياجات المجتمعية. غالبا ما تساعد هذه المنتجات العملاء غير المخدومين أو المحرومين.

ومن الامثلة على الاستخدام الناجح لهذا التكتيك يأتي من شركة الرعاية الصحية Novartis ، التي أطلقت مبادرة تهدف إلى الوصول إلى الناس في المناطق الريفيّة في الهند. يقدم البرنامج الأدوية التي تعالج قضايا الصحة الاقليمية، وتبيعها في حزم أصغر لزيادة القدرة على تحمل التكاليف وتوظف موظفي المبيعات المحليين في نظام التوزيع الخاص بها وتوفر التعليم الصحي وتحسن البنية التحتية للرعاية الصحية من خلال الشراكات مع منظمات التمويل الأصغر.  وقد زادت هذه المبادرة نسبة الأشخاص الذين يرتادون الطبيب ثلاث مرات وأصبحوا مربحين بعد واحد وثلاثين شهرًا من التشغيل.

إعادة تعريف الانتاجية في سلسلة القيمة

هذا التعريف يتضمن تحسين الممارسات لاستخدام الموارد بشكل أفضل . ويمكن أن يشمل التمكين من الاستخدام الأكثر كفاءة أو انتاجية للموارد المالية ومهارات الموظفين وقدرات الشركاء التجاريين.

تشارك Wal-Mart بشكل متكرر في هذه الأنواع من المبادرات، والتي تحافظ على الموارد وتعزز ربحية الشركة. وفي عام 2005 حددت الشركة هدف مضاعفة كفاءة أسطولها بحلول عام 2015 وتحسين عملياتها للتحميل والتوجيه والقيادة والاستثمار في التكنولوجيا الجديدة، زادت الفعالية بنسبة 102.2% من عام 2005 وحتى 2015 ووفرت حوالي بليون دولار سنويا.

خلق مجموعات الصناعة الدائمة

يمكن للشركات أيضًا إنشاء قيمة مشتركة من خلال تحسين المؤسسات الداعمة وقاعدة الموردين والمهارات المتوفرة في المجتمعات التي تعمل فيها الشركة. ويمكن لهذه التغييرات زيادة الانتاجية ودعم الابتكار وتعزيز النمو.

تشتهر شركة مارس-Mars بصناعة الشوكولاته وأنواع اخرى من الحلوى، وتعتمد على تصنيع الكاكاو للنجاح، والتي يتم جمعها من مزارع أصحاب الحيازات الصغيرة في بلدان ساحل العاج.

وتتركز مبادرة رؤية التغيير التي تتبناها الشركة على تحسين دخل المزارعين في ساحل العاج من خلال زيادة الانتاجية إلى طن متري للهكتار الواحد وتحقيق مكاسب اجتماعية وبيئية من خلال هذه المكاسب الانتاجية ، وتهدف هذه المبادرة كذلك إلى تحسين المواد الزراعية وإدارة التربة في جزء منها من خلال التدريب والمشاركة مع المزارعين.

الطلقة المفرقة

وبينما لا يتفق الجميع على أهمية القيمة المشتركة للشركات. فإن أعدادًا متزايدة من الناس تقوم بدمجها في عملياتها. فهل سيحول ملف القيمة المشتركة للشركات الرأسمالية؟ أم أنه سيكون مجرد نزعة عابرة فقط؟

فقط الوقت كفيل بإثبات ذلك..

 

ترجمة وتدقيق: هبة الشطناوي؛

طالبة في السنة الرابعة في جامعة العلوم والتكنولوجيا الأردنية /

كلية الزراعة قسم الموارد الطبيعية والبيئة.

The Importance of Ecological Education in Schools

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How important is the environment in our everyday life and what impact we have on it and what can you do as a student? There is no need to mention how radical our lives have changed in the last decades due to the ignorance we gave to the eco-friendly aspects.

How bad things are?

The environmental status of each year is increasingly worrying: the forested spaces are reduced, the deserts are spreading, the agricultural soils are degraded, the degree of pollution is higher, and the ozone layer is thinner, the greenhouse effect is accentuated, and many plant and animal species are endangered.

ecotherapy

يبقى الإنسان محور أهداف الفكر البيئي، وتتمثل أولويات مفاهيهمة في صون الامن البيئي للإنسان

 

It can be generalized that developed countries produce large amounts of waste and pollutants, they consume large amounts of energy and natural resources, and the impact that these countries have on the environment is highly destructive.

Because life cannot be separated from the environment, all education should be directed toward the protection of the environment. Human society needs to be interrelated and to know that each action will produce a reaction that is often unpredictable in the complex of living systems.

When natural resources are exhausted on a large scale, and the environment is polluted, it is not only a matter of local effect on plants and animals, but also the health of the people is part of this. What is healthy for nature, as a rule, is also healthy for its creatures and every man must be responsible for the impact that his life has on the life of the planet.

In every corner of the world, people cut down forests, mineral extracts and energy sources, eroding surface soil, pollute air and water, creating hazardous waste and breaking natural areas at an unprecedented pace in the history of life on earth.

Because demands arising from overpopulation and development are growing, it is becoming increasingly difficult for people to meet their needs and desires and it also becomes impossible to escape the consequences of serious environmental degradation: species disappearance, desertification, pesticide contamination, increased health problems, famine, poverty and even the loss of human life. All that information along with the cause and the effect should be introduced as a strong information ready to be showed to each student.

Importance of ecological education in schools

Ecological education is a process that aims to improve the quality of life by providing people with the right “tools” they need to solve and prevent environmental problems. Environmental education can help people gain the knowledge, skills, motivations, values and commitment they need to efficiently manage their earth’s resources and take responsibility for maintaining environmental quality.

Environmental issues are urgent and need to be addressed by the whole community, and this must be an integral part of the solution. The divergent views on the state of the environment, the consequences of its degradation and the role of education are good subjects for discussion and debate.

Also, ecological education shows you how to go green and how you should not impose a certain kind of thinking on people, it can help people learn how to think – including how to solve problems, make decisions, weigh options and align values with personal actions. For those who don’t know too well this domain or want to have the highlights of this subject, you can try to reach look online writing services which can help me do my homework.

The environment is a subject and an important aspect which should be everyone concern – that’s why for those who have this theme as the main subject you should try to look essay writing or writing services online. Doing that you will get online help for your research and get all the important aspects – how this domain affects our everyday life and what should we do for creating a better world.

environmental-education

Objectives of ecological education

The objectives of environmental education around the world are similar:

  • to protect and where necessary to restore the structure and functionality of natural systems;
  • to stop the loss of biodiversity;
  • to protect soil against erosion and pollution,
  • protecting the most precious habitats;
  • implementing different plans to protect biodiversity;
  • developing a strategy to protect the marine environment;
  • extending regional and national programs that relate to forest management;

On the other hand, ecological education enhances problem awareness and understanding of personal values by “discovering” attitudes and comprehension, helping students to evaluate and clarify their feelings about the environment and how it contributes to its problems. It helps each person to understand that people have different values, and conflicts between them must be addressed to ultimately prevent and solve environmental problems.

sustainable-schools-initiative

Eco Clubs provide an opportunity to students to participate in environmental projects and activities.

Ecological education is also a practice, in the sense of learning things like planting a tree to reduce consumption, or how to live, producing a negative impact on the environment as little as possible.

Specifically, this kind of class emphasizes some important objectives:

  • Awareness: understanding and sensitivity to the environment and its problems; develops the ability to understand and differentiate incentives, process, refine and expand these perceptions; contributes to the use of these new skills in several contexts.
  • Knowledge: basic understanding of how the environment works, how people interact with the environment and how they appear and how to deal with environmental issues.
  • Attitude: a set of values and feelings of care for the environment, motivation and devotion to participate in maintaining the quality of the environment.
  • Skills: the skills needed to identify and investigate the problems of the environment and to contribute to solving the problems of the environment.
  • Participation: Experience in using the acquired knowledge and skills for positive and well-thought-out actions that will lead to solving environmental problems.

The Health Impacts of Drinking Contaminated Water

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Drinking dirty or contaminated water causes numerous health problems, all of which one should be aware of. The contamination of water sources can start from the main water sources such as city water supplies, rivers, streams, and lakes, or well water supplies. Moreover, the main water source such as groundwater might get contaminated from toxic chemicals found underground, such as fluoride or arsenic, if the water is not filtered properly. Furthermore, contamination can occur from something as dangerous as a badly designed hazardous waste site or industrial site, exposing the water to numerous dangerous chemicals.

As previously mentioned, contaminated water has several health effects on its consumers. Here are a few effects that occur due to drinking contaminated water.

hot-water-conservation

Effects of Drinking Contaminated Water

Unfortunately, the health effects of drinking contaminated water can’t be detected or seen immediately. Additionally, components such as age, health, and physical conditions of those affected define the extent of the effects experienced. Some of the physical effects experienced due to consuming contaminated water include:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Intestinal cramps
  • Stomach pains
  • Dehydration
  • Irritation of the eyes, nose, and skin

These are the immediate effects that can be experienced in the short term. But, as previously mentioned, not all people experience effects right away.

In addition, some long-term effects can be experienced that don’t show until later on. These include, but are not limited to:

  • E. coli bacterial infections
  • Coliform bacterial infections
  • Lead poisoning
  • Arsenic poisoning
  • Radium poisoning
  • Exposure to unwanted pharmaceuticals
  • Exposure to herbicides
  • Infections caused by microbial pathogens

All of the above mentioned water contaminants can enter water supplies through different means. The chemicals can be absorbed into the ground, broken pipes can cause the entrance of unwanted pathogens into the water, and the dumping of waste into water sources can do the same. Some of these contaminants can be avoided through the use of a quality sediment filter. But, what are some other steps we can take to reduce water contamination?

clean-water-for-home

How to Control Water Contamination?

  • Do not throw any household chemicals or cleaning agents down the sink or toilet. The chemicals can directly affect water supply in the case of a leakage or pipe breakage. Instead, dispose of the chemicals in a nearby hazardous waste facility.
  • Do not flush pills, powder medications, or any other medical waste down the toilet or throw it down the drain. As aforementioned, medical wastes in water can be a serious issue. What you should do is search proper disposal methods for different types of medical waste and follow through with them.
  • Avoid usage of garbage disposals. Garbage disposals can be a main component of water pollution. Keep your solid wastes as they are. Don’t throw vegetables down the garbage disposal, but instead make a compost pile from your vegetable scraps.
  • Install water efficient apparatuses in your home. For instance, invest in a water-efficient toilet or sink in order to reduce water usage. This can actually help reduce water contamination issues. With an impressive 3:1 drain ratio, tankless RO system G3P800 can meet the needs of clean water drinking and water saving at the same time.

Summary

Water contamination can be brought about by several means; all equally dangerous. Through doing the steps mentioned above, you don’t only ensure your own safety from water contamination, but the safety of others as well. Keep yourself and others free from the effects of water contamination and spread the word!

Ten Tips for Green Living

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Green living is an attempt to reduce an individual’s or society’s use of the Earth’s natural resources by altering methods of transportation, energy consumption, water usage etc. Green living aims to meet present ecological, societal, and economical needs without compromising these factors for coming generations.

Also Read: How to Start Off-the-Grid Living

Reduction in the size of ecological or carbon footprint is the natural outcome of sustainable living. Water pollution, soil contamination, air pollution, waste disposal, resource conservation, wildlife protection are the major environment challenges facing the mankind.

tips for green living

When it comes to sustainability, every individual has a role to play. Any individual can adopt a green lifestyle. Here are few green living tips that may help in creating a healthy environment for you and your family, as well as for the Earth:

upcycling

  1. Follow the hierarchy of 3Rs – Reduce consumption, Reuse what you buy and Recycle the rest
  2. Practice upcycling – Convert waste materials into new materials or products of higher quality or value than the original, e.g. transforming a plastic bag into a bin liner or a plastic bottle into a seed propagator or a coconut shell into eating bowl.
  3. Compost organics – Making compost for your garden is an easy way to add nutrients to your soil while also reducing your household waste.
  4. Reuse water – Water is an invaluable but finite resource. Use sink water to flush toilets, use greywater for irrigating garden and harvest rainwater.
  5. Conserve energy – Energy is the driving force of development. Conserve it by turning-off computers at night, making a switch from incandescent to CFLs or LEDs and avoid putting appliances on standby.
  6. Rethink bottled water – Plastic water bottles take thousands of years to decompose. Buy a reusable container and fill it with purified water.
  7. Recycle old cellphones –Tens of millions of cellphones are retired each year introducing toxic substances into the environment if they go into landfills. There are plenty of reputable programs where you can recycle your phone, many which benefit noble causes.
  8. Recycle aluminium and glass – Twenty recycled aluminium cans can be made with the energy it takes to manufacture one brand new one. Likewise, every ton of glass recycled saves the equivalent of nine gallons of fuel oil needed to make glass from virgin materials.
  9. Avoid plastic bags – Around 1 trillion such bags are consumed worldwide every year which cause big interference in natural ecosystems. Some of the alternatives are cloth-based bags, such as jute and cotton, which are biodegradable as well as reusable.
  10. Plant an idea – Sustainable living is not an improbable task. Simple things, like planting a tree, can make a meaningful difference.