Murano, Italy, has a rich history of glassblowing that spans 700 centuries and counting. However, it is in very real danger because of rising gas prices, made worse by the Russo-Ukrainian war. Part of the measures Murano’s glassblowers are taking to curb their gas bills is to cut down on the number of furnaces they use. While it’s worked out for them so far, their creativity is crippled in the process; for example, they can only use a limited number of colours for their pieces. 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
