The obsession of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways is rooted in the pursuit of safety, but it seems to be doing the opposite. Uniform signs and crosswalks make it easy for drivers to recognise them at a glance, allowing high-speed driving. Instead, suppose we were to foster creativity in colour and design. In that case, drivers may end up going slower to understand what they’re looking at, leading to fewer chances of traffic accidents. 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
