California's Stand for Octopus Welfare
Washington State kicked off a trend in March 2024 by banning octopus farming. California is following the same suit but with an extra twist. The California State Senate passed Bill AB-3162 to outlaw not just octopus farming but also the sale of farmed octopus if signed into law.
Octopuses are smart, curious creatures that would suffer in crowded tanks and could get hurt or die from tank collisions, poor handling, or fights with other octopuses that arise due to confined spaces. Therefore, octopus farming raises serious concerns about octopus welfare, and the bill will help protect them.
As more people learn about the inhume elements of octopus farming, there’s hope that this practice will be widely rejected. The introduction of a federal bill to stop octopus farming nationwide assures us of this.
Lincolnshire's New Wildlife Paradise
The National Trust has begun to work on a £7.3m nature project that will turn an old golf course into a thriving wildlife haven. The 25-hectare reserve will feature open water, islands, reedbeds, and ponds that are key migration routes for birds. For that reason, it’s expected to attract many bird species, from local favorites like skylarks to rare visitors such as spoonbills.
Beyond helping wildlife, the project aims to create a peaceful space for people to enjoy nature. Visitors will find new walkways, a community space, and a café. The income from the café and car park will be used to fund conservation efforts.
Although work is set to finish in autumn 2025, the site remains open to visitors during construction. It’s a project that shows the National Trust's commitment to protecting nature and helping people connect with the outdoors.
RSPCA's Efforts to Shelter Homeless Pets
The RSPCA is celebrating its 200th anniversary, and a new challenge does not deter them. Their rescue centers are filling up quickly, and as a result, the charity now spends £500,000 monthly across the UK to house animals in private kennels and catteries. A cost that is estimated at £44,000 per month in the southwest alone.
Sammy Thompson, an RSPCA Cornwall Branch staff member, concludes that the post-COVID pet boom plays a big part in this problem as many people are unable to care for pets they acquired during lockdowns. She remarks:
"Animals are simply too readily available for people to take on and, when it doesn’t work out, there is nowhere else for them to go but a rescue center."
The RSPCA is encouraging the public to consider fostering. A solution that allows animal lovers to enjoy animal companionship without the financial undertaking while also freeing up space in rescue centers. Their efforts showcase the ongoing need for community support in caring for homeless pets.
Lego's Greener Future
Lego, a Danish toy company, aims to use 50% renewable or recycled materials in its bricks by 2026. The company has already tested over 600 alternative materials in its quest for sustainability, and it’s willing to pay up to 70% more for certified renewable resin, an incentive that it hopes will push manufacturers to increase production of these materials and reduce harmful plastic waste.
Lego's CEO, Niels Christiansen, acknowledges that this shift means higher production costs. Therefore, the company has decided to bear these costs without raising prices for consumers.
Lego has also expanded its brick takeback program, Replay, to allow consumers to donate old bricks. This move towards a greener future shows Lego's dedication to both play and the planet.
Wholesome Grains in Unexpected Places
Quinoa, farro, and buckwheat are no longer just for health-food stores. These ancient and nutritious grains are now in the ready-to-eat and beverage space.
Consumers are drawn to their better-for-you profile and environment-friendly perks. This wave has resulted in a $41 million sustainable grain market that’s set to continue to grow, showcasing that food companies are interested in embracing these grains' health benefits and contributing to green-proofing our collective future.
Quinoa is showing up in nut butter and wellness bars. Farro is making its way into baking mixes and pasta. Buckwheat is joining the party in breakfast foods and snacks with some creative uses, including Van Leeuwen's ice cream with buckwheat flour cookies and Nuike Foods' quinoa milk.
In addition to the environmental benefits, more options for healthy grains and milk alternatives not only means more room for mainstream market adoption but also variety. With more people joining the movement, it’s going to be important to have a wider set of options that meet their diversity in taste and food tolerance.
