“The question is not if renewables will overtake fossils but how quickly.” Our society seems to be on the cusp of a new wave of innovation — the sixth in a little over two centuries — focused on green energy. And it’s not a sudden decision backed by the politics of climate change; Per Espen Stoknes posits that it is an inevitable shift because fossil fuels are getting less profitable compared to renewable alternatives. 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
