Regenerative farming is a “holistic set of interconnected growing practices related to building healthy, carbon-holding soil.” It has been proven to help mitigate climate change, making it a possible large-scale climate solution. But many farmers would rather lease their land out to solar companies than try to wrap their heads around regenerative farming. Regenerative farming is a big departure from traditional farming methods; it’s much easier to “sign on the dotted line and get a paycheck for [leasing] their land for solar” than set up their land for regenerative farming. 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