AMERICAN SOIL - ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS
Straps on Masks
​
With Covid-19 still on the rise, things such as single-use face masks and gloves have become the newest form of litter. Single-use face masks and gloves that aren’t disposed of properly can seriously hurt animals. The straps of the mask can tangle around an animal’s feet and this makes it hard for them to walk and could make their joints swollen and sore. Synthetic materials from gloves and masks can hurt and even kill animals that accidentally ingest them. This happens very often with marine life. If you wear a single-use face mask, make sure to dispose of it properly. Don’t just toss it on the ground, and try not to set it down outside as it could be blown away. When you dispose of your mask, make sure you cut the straps in half. This way, even if it somehow ends up as litter, it will be less likely to tangle around an animal’s leg. And finally, consider wearing a cloth face mask. In general, cloth face masks are more eco-friendly, less likely to end up as litter, better for everyday use, and could save you some money over time. (source)
​
Rebuilding After Wildfires
​
In 2020, there have been lots of intense forest fires. Because of global warming, temperatures are rising, and the woods have been drier. Forest fires are now more likely to happen. Yet, rebuilding with fire-resistant materials still isn’t required. Fire-resistant materials (such as fire-resistant roofing/siding) could stop the house from igniting in the first place or stop the spread of fire. Some states do have rebuilding regulations in place, but many states (such as Oregon and Colorado) still don’t. This also leaves homeowners with the decision on how to rebuild. It’s tough for some people because of the financial and emotional strains. After the wildfires, some people are forced to live in hotels and some are unable to even find temporary housing. For a lot of people, the biggest concern is how fast they can rebuild, not how well they rebuild. Wildfires have been the source of a lot of stress and tragedy this year, and because of climate change, things could get a lot worse. (source)
​
Biden and the Climate Crisis
​
As many of you probably know, Joe Biden was recently elected president. According to the polls, Biden won about 7 in 10 voters who see climate change as a severe problem. Most climate activists are in support of Biden’s plan. According to NBC, it “aims to achieve a 100% clean electricity standard by 2035.” Biden also stated that he intends to rejoin the Paris agreement, which is a global pact to hinder emissions and keep the rise in average temperatures below 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Most climate experts say they’re eager for Biden to get started on fighting the climate crisis and tackling this huge problem. (source)