Hope Rises as South Korea's Dog Meat Trade Winds Down; Aspen Unveils Its Carbon-Negative Vodka - 34th Issue

Public opposition to the centuries-old practice of dog meat consumption is growing, driven by increasing awareness of animal cruelty. The Animal Welfare Institute reveals that annually in South Korea, two million dogs are slaughtered, and 100,000 metric tonnes of dog meat are consumed. On a global scale, Humane Society International estimates that 30 million dogs are killed each year for food.

In response, the Humane Society International, along with various animal protection groups, spearheaded efforts to end the dog meat trade in South Korea. These persistent efforts culminated in the adoption of legislation that will phase out the dog meat industry by 2027. Starting in January 2024, farmers will have a three-year transition period during which they can receive government support to move into alternative livelihoods.

This victory was commemorated at Cheonggye Plaza, where a vibrant gathering celebrated the positive change. Participants endorsed the peaceful coexistence of humans and dogs, and enjoyed a performance by Annie Ko from Love X Stereo, who was inspired by her own dog rescued from a meat farm. The event also featured a mural by Korean artist Kim Chamsae, depicting a happy tosa dog, a breed typically exploited in the meat industry. Attendees placed flower stickers at the mural's base, symbolizing the dogs' transition to lives as cherished companions.

In an exciting leap forward, Aspen Vodka has become the first U.S. distillery worldwide to earn the prestigious LEEDv4 BD+C Platinum certification. This achievement showcases their dedication to energy efficiency and sustainable practices.

The distillery's 18,000-square-foot facility is a marvel of eco-friendly design. It generates more power than it uses through solar energy and battery storage. Even more impressive, over half of its land is devoted to regenerative agriculture, supporting local food production.

But Aspen Vodka doesn't stop there. They've partnered with Aquacycl to treat wastewater on-site without carbon emissions, protecting the nearby Roaring Fork River.

The distillery's success proves that top-quality spirits and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. As Founder Matthew Patel puts it, they're setting "a new benchmark for sustainability" in the industry.

Recent news of a 4-month-old's tragic death from heat-related illness during a boating trip in Arizona reminds us how crucial it is to protect our tiniest family members. With temperatures soaring to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 Celsius), we must be extra vigilant.

Babies are more vulnerable to extreme heat than we might think. Their tiny bodies warm up faster than ours, and they can't tell us when they're too hot. Watching for signs of overheating is key. If your baby seems fussy, isn't peeing as much, or feels warm to the touch, it might be time to cool them down. A gentle misting with water or a cool cloth can help.

Makia Wallace, who lost her son Jace to a hot car incident in 2020, now spreads awareness about this danger. She reminds us that no one is immune to such accidents.

In a big win for nature, 60 baby Siamese crocodiles have hatched in Cambodia's Cardamom Mountains. This is the most births in over 100 years for these rare reptiles. Conservationists are thrilled, calling it a "real sign of hope" after 20 years of hard work to save the species.

The olive-green crocs, known for their bony head crests, were once common in Southeast Asia. But hunting and habitat loss nearly wiped them out. Now, only about 400 remain in the wild, mostly in Cambodia.

Local community wardens patrol the mountains to protect the 196 Siamese crocodiles released since 2012, ensuring their safety in the wild. The new births in an unexpected area show the crocs are thriving and breeding naturally.