Lichen, a type of fungi found in extreme environments can be used to treat a variety of ailments due to its incredible medicinal properties. Traditional Chinese medicine records show it was used to treat pain, inflammation, lung diseases like tuberculosis, and even cancer. In traditional medicine, Usnea genus is best known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which makes it…
Moss is a non-vascular plant that serves as a natural air purifier by filtering toxins and aromas in the air. It can absorb pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter by gathering them from the environment. Mosses have no roots or vascular tissue, allowing them to absorb moisture and nutrients directly from the air. They can absorb…
Residents of a small town in the heart of a residential area are protesting a proposed construction project that involves the removal of a significant amount of foliage. The proposed development includes a new residential complex, and local residents are concerned that the removal of trees and shrubs will have negative environmental impacts such as increasing greenhouse gas emissions, soil…
The Sapling Foundation’s new project aims to promote afforestation in urban areas in order to increase biodiversity, reduce the negative effects of climate change, and create a green environment. The project is currently being implemented in various cities worldwide and aims to cover areas that have the lowest green space. The benefits of afforestation in urban areas are numerous, including…
The California chaparral ecosystem, characterized by evergreen shrubs and small trees, is being threatened by a shrub takeover caused by fire suppression and invasive plant species. This takeover has led to a decrease in the number of native plant and animal species in the ecosystem and created less diverse habitat that is less able to support a wider range of…
Researchers are using data from the understory to predict and prevent natural disasters such as wildfires, landslides, and floods. The understory is the vegetation layer that grows beneath the canopy or the trees’ crowns, and its data provides insights into the health and resilience of forest ecosystems. Researchers monitor the growth patterns, amount, and distribution of understory plants, and sudden…
The undergrowth in a forest supports the ecosystem by providing habitats for a vast array of species, increasing biodiversity and contributing to the web of interdependence between species. Undergrowth also plays a vital role in maintaining soil health, nutrient cycling, and aiding in fire prevention and resistance. However, undergrowth unchecked can also contribute to soil erosion. Proper management of undergrowth…
Canopy Growth Corporation has linked up with US businesswoman and television personality Martha Stewart to create a range of cannabidiol (CBD) products. The collaboration will use Stewart’s experience in high-quality botanicals with the Canadian-based cannabis and hemp firm’s scientific research skills to develop the new products, which include gummies, oils and soft gels. CBD products are legal in the US,…
On Friday night, the fire department quickly contained a fire in a copse on the outskirts of town. However, officials believe the fire may have been set deliberately and are investigating the incident as possible arson. Officials are concerned about the possibility of future fires and are reminding the public to be careful with open flames, report potential fire hazards,…
National Geographic released a documentary focusing on the importance of thicket conservation. Thickets provide habitat for a diverse range of plants and animals, many of which are endangered or threatened. They have been under threat due to climate change, habitat fragmentation, and human activities such as agriculture, mining, and logging. Conservation efforts include protection of critical habitat, habitat restoration, and…