Edible cactus is a mainstay in Mexico, and it’s beginning to gain hold in America. The prickly pear cactus grows natively as far north as Connecticut, and it already sees scattered use throughout the US. Some farmers use it as a fence for crops and a magnet for pollinators, but it’s slowly becoming more popular as a true specialty crop. If the mass-market appeal is there, then the prickly pear cactus could be the next cash crop and a boon to sustainability. 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
