Filipino scientists discovered a unique plant species on Luzon Island in the Philippines called Rinorea niccolifera, which is classified as a nickel hyperaccumulator.

This plant can absorb and store up to 18,000 parts per million (ppm) of nickel in its tissues — approximately 1.8% of its dry weight — without suffering damage. This makes it part of a rare and scientifically valuable group of plants.

The discovery was formally documented in the journal Phytotaxa by researchers from the University of the Philippines and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Its capability is crucial for the field of phytoremediation, an eco-friendly method that uses plants to remove heavy metals from polluted soils, especially in regions affected by mining activities.

Moreover, Rinorea niccolifera opens opportunities for agromining, or the harvesting of commercially valuable metals directly from plants.

This method is seen as a cleaner alternative to traditional mining, potentially allowing for both soil restoration and economic gain.

Canada is pioneering a smarter approach to road safety by using sensor-driven wildlife detection systems on highways. These systems can identify large animals—like deer, moose, and elk—approaching the road and immediately trigger flashing warning signs to alert drivers in real time.

Early trials have shown that this tech can reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by up to 90% in some areas. The goal isn’t just about saving human lives—though that matters greatly—it’s also about preserving wildlife populations and preventing unnecessary animal deaths.

With highways cutting through natural habitats, this solution bridges the gap between safety and conservation—literally. As climate change and urban expansion drive animals closer to roads, smart technology like this might be the new standard for coexisting safely.

#RoadSafety #WildlifeProtection #SmartSensors #CanadaInnovation #EcoTech #AnimalConservation #FutureOfInfrastructure

If we had to pay for the oxygen we breathe, the global bill could top $1.68 trillion annually, based on industrial production rates. That’s over 8 billion metric tons of oxygen needed every year just for us to stay alive.

But nature already solved that — for free.

Through photosynthesis, trees and other plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. One mature tree can produce enough oxygen for two people each year.

The Takeaway? Protecting forests isn’t just about trees — it’s about saving our most valuable natural infrastructure.

#TreeFacts #OxygenEconomy #NatureIsPriceless #Sustainability #PhotosynthesisPower #GreenPlanet #ClimateAwareness

Croatian Crni Rižot – Black Squid Ink Risotto

A Dalmatian coastal specialty, Crni Rižot is a rich, briny black risotto made with cuttlefish or squid and colored naturally with ink — a seafood lover’s dream.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

* 400g squid or cuttlefish, cleaned and chopped
* 1 small squid ink pouch (or 1 tsp squid ink paste)
* 1 onion, finely chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 250g Arborio or short-grain rice
* 150ml white wine
* 750ml fish or vegetable stock, warmed
* Olive oil, parsley, lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
2. Add squid, cook for 3–4 minutes. Stir in rice, coat well.
3. Pour in wine; let it evaporate. Gradually add stock, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in squid ink and continue until rice is al dente.
5. Finish with olive oil drizzle and fresh parsley. Serve with lemon.

Croatian Tip:
Serve with chilled white wine and crusty bread to balance the richness.

Natural enemies