Pepper was such a highly sought-after spice that it made and broke the economies of several nations and city-states. Alexandria, Genoa, and Venice grew rich after taking on the role of Europe’s principal pepper merchants, bringing the spice over from Asia. However, after the Portuguese found a sea route to the source of the spice, their economies sank as Portugal took over the spice trade and replaced these city-states as the central trading centres for pepper. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
