This week, we look at a clever new green use for the classic gumball machine, cheer over a recent research grant that will use algae to make bio-fuel (yes!), and an inspiring not-for-profit organisation called Project Futures, which aims to end sex trafficking.
Dropping the seedbomb
Pop some change into the machine, seemingly a gumball dispenser, and walk away with something even better, a seedbomb (a mix of clay, compost and seeds). Then, on your daily stroll around the neighbourhood, anonymously “drop the bomb” into a vacant lot, parking median or any other urban site to transform it into something worth caring for.
The video explains this cool concept further. Take it away, Greenaid!
Researchers win green grant (as in, algae green)
The Australian Federal Government has awarded a grant to an experiment in Queensland’s South Burnett that uses algae to convert carbon emissions into fuel.
A team of researchers at James Cook University are working with MBD Energy to perfect the algal synthesis method that converts the plant’s carbon emissions into a bio-fuel and a low-cost feed for animals.
Read the full article here.
Meet Project Futures
Project Futures is a new not-for-profit organisation that aims to help stop sex trafficking, inspired by the incredible work of Cambodian Somaly Mam, a former victim of sex slavery. Their mission is to revolutionise the idea of a “charity” for Generation Y with innovative, fun and creative events. This is a great example of young people standing up and taking action. It’s proof that we can cause change, reach out and make a mighty difference.
Here are some truths about sex trafficking today, taken from their website:
- 2-4 million young women and children will be sold in the sex trade in the next year.
- Human trafficking is the second largest organised crime in the world. It has become a bigger business than drug trafficking.
- Profits from sex slavery exceed US9.5 billion per year.
- Human trafficking victims are subject to rape, torture, forced abortions, starvation and threats to family members.
- Each year over a million children are exploited into the commercial sex industry.
- Many of these children are sold for as little as $10 and some as young as 5 years old.
Boost your immune system with laughter yoga
When laughter is forced, the same set of chemicals are released as when it’s real. Meaning you get the same great feeling and benefits. In the video below, John Cleese learns all about this movement.
“Fake it till you make it”.
April
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