Tire crumb rubber is a big part of our environment. It's in playgrounds, sports fields, and even roads. But did you know it might be spreading antibiotic resistance? This is a serious issue. Phages, or viruses that infect bacteria, can spread antibiotic resistance genes. These genes make bacteria tough to kill with antibiotics. Tiny bits of tire rubber, called microm...
Lake Balaton, the biggest shallow lake in Central Europe, is home to a tiny hero. The quagga mussel, an invasive species, might just be the key to tackling organic pollutants in the lake. These pollutants, like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can be harmful to the environment and local communities. The easte...
Floods are becoming more common and more severe. This is due to climate change. These floods can cause big problems. They can spread harmful substances into water supplies. These substances are known as contaminants of emerging concern or CECs. Antibiotics are a big part of this problem. They are widely used on farms. This can lead to pollution of rivers and l...
In the Netherlands, cows that roam freely in the floodplains face a significant challenge. They ingest harmful chemicals called dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs. These chemicals enter the cows' systems through the grass and soil they consume, leading to increased levels in their meat fat. Understanding how these chemicals behave in cattle is crucial for addressing this i...
In India, the dairy industry is massive. It's the world's top producer and consumer of dairy products. But there's a hidden problem. Antibiotics are often misused, leading to antibiotic resistance. This isn't just a problem for cows; it's a public health issue. Farmers, farm workers, and even the environment are at risk. Sixteen dairy farms in Dehradun distr...
Have you ever thought about what happens to all the plastic we throw away? A lot of it ends up in the air we breathe as microplastics. These tiny plastic pieces, less than 5 millimeters in size, are everywhere, from the deepest oceans to the highest mountains. They come from things like old tires, fibers from clothes, and even the dust that collects in our homes. Sc...
In the small town of Naples, a once-quiet family business has turned into a big industrial operation, causing a stir among neighbors. About 100 people gathered to discuss concerns about air quality and environmental damage linked to Panhandle Door Inc. (PDI), a cabinet door and drawer manufacturer. Kelli Martin, Jeffery Steinborn, and Jim Dewberry led the charge, cla...