#Plants

The Whys and Hows

Inspiring Urban Biodiversity: How Can You Grow an 'Urban Jungle' on Your Terrace?

Aman Sharma, a 19-year-old from Delhi started Cuckoo About Nature Club — a birding club for youth. He grows over 500 plants in his terrace garden, which invite birds, butterflies and bees. Aman claims he couldn't visit his favorite jungles and wildlife spots during the pandemic-induced curfew in 2020. So he decided to transform his 1,500-square-foot terrace into a little forest. When most of his friends spent their holidays in foreign countries, Aman Sharma recalls how different his school vacations were. His parents used to take him to bird sanctuaries and national parks across the country. Aman offers advice on how to create an urban jungle: Make certain that you have enough room and water. Check if your patio can withstand the weight of plants. Plant the appropriate host plants in your yard to attract butterflies. These are plants where butterflies lay eggs, which hatch into caterpillars, which finally develop into butterflies. As host plants, you may grow powder puff, milkweed, lemon tree, and curry leaf saplings. Grow fruiting plants such as guavas and pomegranates to attract birds. Grow a lot of blooming plants or trees to attract bees as well as butterflies. Birding community by youth for youth Aman started bird-watching from his house balcony at the age of 13. “I would wake up early every day to spend some time on my balcony watching the birds in the neighborhood. It was a life-changing experience,” recalls Aman, who is currently pursuing environmental studies in the US. Residing in a metropolitan city like Delhi didn’t stop him from pursuing his interests in birdi watching and wildlife photography. To attract more birds and butterflies near his house, he set up a terrace garden, which he calls his ‘urban jungle’, with over 500 plants. “I have spotted over 100 species of birds from my terrace,” claims the 19-year-old.During the 2020 pandemic-induced lockdown period, Aman says that he couldn’t travel to his favorite jungles and wildlife destinations. So, he decided to turn his 1,500 sq ft terrace into a tiny jungle. This realization was a turning point in Aman’s life, who started going out for bird walks in the city. Eventually, these walks led him to realize that children of his age are missing out on a great opportunity to understand urban wildlife. Through his birding club and terrace garden, Aman not only brings nature closer to urban dwellers but also inspires young minds to embrace and understand urban wildlife, creating a thriving ecosystem within the cityscape.

3 Dec 2023

The Whys and Hows

Good News

French Company Develops 'Superplants' to Purify Indoor Air 30 Times More Than Regular Houseplants

A small business in France has made a breakthrough in the fight against indoor air pollution by creating genetically-enhanced houseplants that can remove indoor pollutants up to 30 times more effectively than regular houseplants. Neoplants, the company behind this innovation, recognized the need to address the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in households. These compounds, found in items such as paint, treated wood, and household cleaners, can lead to health issues like inflammation and irritation. By modifying the genetic makeup of houseplants, Neoplants have enhanced their natural ability to absorb and process pollutants like formaldehyde. The modified plants no longer store the toxins but instead convert them into plant matter. This breakthrough also improves the plants' microbiome, enabling them to more efficiently absorb and process VOCs. The first product from Neoplants, called the Neo P1, is a Devil's ivy plant that comes with a custom-designed tall stand to optimize its air-cleaning properties. Initial tests conducted by the Ecole Mines-Telecom of Lille University showed that the Neo P1 is equivalent to having 30 regular houseplants in terms of air purification effectiveness. The founders of Neoplants aim to provide a sustainable solution to indoor air pollution while reducing the burden of maintenance for plant owners. The Neo P1 is expected to be available for delivery in August 2024. With the growing awareness of environmental issues and the importance of clean indoor air, these 'superplants' offer a promising solution. By harnessing the power of genetic enhancements, Neoplants is paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future.

8 Nov 2023

Good News

Nature's Secret Weapon: Moss Absorbs 6x More CO2 Than Other Plants, New Study Finds

A new study has revealed the incredible carbon-absorbing capabilities of moss, with the tiny plant able to absorb up to six times more carbon dioxide (CO2) than other plants. The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Surrey, highlights the potential for moss to play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change. According to the study, moss is particularly effective at absorbing CO2 because of its unique structure and growth patterns. The plant can capture and store carbon in its leaves, stems, and roots, making it a highly effective carbon sink. The researchers note that the ability of moss to absorb CO2 could have significant implications for efforts to combat climate change. By promoting the growth of moss in areas with high levels of CO2 emissions, it may be possible to reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere and slow the pace of global warming. In addition to its carbon-absorbing capabilities, moss also has a range of other benefits for the environment. It helps to improve soil quality, prevent erosion, and promote biodiversity, making it an important component of many ecosystems. As scientists continue to explore the potential of moss as a tool for fighting climate change, it is clear that this tiny plant could play a critical role in securing a more sustainable future for our planet.

5 Jul 2023

Good News

A Groundbreaking Discovery in the Western Ghats: A Clue To Plant Species Survival

Researchers at the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) in Pune have made a significant discovery of a rare low-altitude basalt plateau in the Western Ghats that will tremendously help to understand how plant species can survive climate change. Dr Mandar Datar, lead scientist of the study, and his team found 76 species of plants belonging to 24 different families on the plateau. This finding supports the idea that high-temperature conditions of climate change can be survived by species, specifically, plants, found in these open, mostly arid habitats. The four-month monsoon season in the Western Ghats is the only favorable time for plants to grow. Following the monsoons, there is acute water scarcity which the plants can withstand by either seeding right before the spell is through or by storing food underground in the form of bulbs. With summertime soil temperatures reaching up to 60 degrees Celsius, this is a very hostile environment. The finding of the low-altitude plateau in the Western Ghats is an important breakthrough in understanding the resilience of plant species which can help in formulating methods to ensure their survival. This discovery has provided effective and much-needed insight into how plant species can survive in increasingly hostile climate conditions, and can be applied to other areas around the world.

1 Feb 2023

Good News

The Spectacular Orchidarium of Shillong: A Tourist Hotspot

The orchidarium in 6th Mile Upper Shillong area has been a recent tourist attraction in the capital of Meghalaya, Shillong. This is due to the display of the orchid flower plants in a plethora of different hues, cultivated by 20 women entrepreneurs from the state of Meghalaya. Developed in 2019, the orchidarium is situated in an area of 600 meters in Polly House. It showcases various types of orchid plants including seed plants, cut flowers, and potted plants in both local and hybrid varieties. The success of the orchidarium is largely due to the funding and assistance given by the Department of Biotechnology of the Central Government. This has enabled the 20 women cultivators from Shillong and East Khasi Hills district to become entrepreneurs of orchid plants. The orchidarium has recently been diversified with the cultivation of succulent and ornamental plants, as well as medicinal orchid plants. Encouraged by the success of the orchidarium, the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a public enterprise of the Department of Biotechnology, has started a larger project that will give opportunities to 100 more women entrepreneurs in the district of Ri-bhoi through orchid plants. The success of the orchidarium despite the pandemic has enabled the sales of the orchid plants worth over Rs. 7 lakhs. This in turn has enabled the women entrepreneurs to gain financial freedom and economic stability. This project is an example of how the implementation of the Central Government’s assistance and funding can help to empower local women entrepreneurs and help to bring positive economic change in the region.

27 Jan 2023

Good News

A Welcome Solution for Plant Owners!

In recent times, there has been a growing interest among people to keep and nurture indoor plants. The spike was particularly seen during the Covid lockdown. Indoor plants not only beautify the house but also render a calming effect. They play an important role in purifying the air. According to Greencleanguide, plants reduce the levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), common indoor air pollutants that can be harmful to people's health. While keeping indoor plants has its own benefits, there is a common dilemma that every plant owner faces - who will look after their plants when they have to be away from home for longer periods of time? Now, they need not worry as Plant Creches have come to their aid. Plant Creches are specialized facilities that offer a nurturing atmosphere to plants of all sizes and shapes, as well as the tools and knowledge necessary to preserve their longevity. They are a much-needed and welcome alternative for Indian plant owners. In addition to providing essential services for plant owners, Plant Creches are more than just a nursery because they offer a special opportunity for plant lovers to learn more about plant care and even adopt a new plant to take home. Many owners of plant nurseries offer instructional programs and workshops on topics including correct watering techniques, insect control, and plant nutrition. As more people attempt to take up the hobby of owning plants, the demand for plant creches is showing a steady rise.

7 Jan 2023

Good News

Farmers Realize That Plants They Burnt As Waste Are in Fact Medicinal Treasure

It is said that knowledge is power. There is no doubt about it as knowledge given to farmers about plants helped them to harness the goodness in plants which otherwise were burnt as waste. Farmers in nine villages in the periphery of Vadodara, Gujarat have now learned to convert their farm waste into Ayurvedic medicines. The farmers, unaware of the benefits of wild plants growing in their fields would bury or burn them. When the Gujarat Ecological Society (GES) began to educate them about the medicinal qualities of these plants, they were inspired to use the farm waste to make valuable medicines. Workshops The Gujarat Ecological Society conducted many workshops for the farmers to train them in the art of making Ayurvedic medicines from the wild plants growing in their fields. They informed the farmers about the medicinal and commercial benefits of plants like kuvadiyo,nagod, galo, damro, guggal , bhangro and gudmar. The farmers learned the procedure to make hair and body oil, sherbets, cough syrup, medicinal powders and mouth fresheners from the plants which they used to earlier consider as waste. Addition To Farmer’s Income Farmers who used to pay labour cost of removing and disposing of the farm waste can now see an addition to their income through the manufacture and marketing of medicinal products prepared from the farm waste. Villagers are given access to Ayurveda experts who provide them with formulas to make oils, cough syrups and other products that are helpful in joint pain, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension etc. The farmers have also realized that the wild plants have good commercial value as they are in demand by pharmaceutical companies to make medicines. Through proper guidance, the wild plants- that farmers earlier used to burn causing air pollution- are now being put to good use thus, benefitting the farmers as well as the environment.

24 Nov 2019

Good News

India eyes Israeli tech for precision agriculture

Israel is well known the world over for its leadership in drip irrigation. It has expertise in precision agriculture and has revolutionized the concept of irrigation by developing a unique artificial intelligence system that enables farmers to know when plants are thirsty thus helping in water conservation. A farm visit had been arranged for PM Narendra Modi during his trip to Israel. Israel is a dry country and its water conservation methods and drip irrigation has been of great help to many countries of the world including India. In this new method, sensors are put on select plants in the field. Data generated from crops is analyzed through sensors and translated into irrigation commands. It interprets the actual water needs of the plants in the fields and sends real-time alerts to farmers. This technology will be of immense help to water-starved regions of Maharashtra (Marathwada), UP, Madhya Pradesh (Bundelkhand) and Rajasthan. Last month, farm visits were organized by the Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute for international journalists who were given demonstrations on how this technology has been successfully used to grow fruits, flowers and vegetables in farms. Agro Web Lab (AWL) has developed this technology which uses plant, soil and environment sensors to gauge the stress levels in the plant and relays actionable feedback to farmers indicating the best time for applying agricultural inputs, including water, for irrigation. It showed an average increase of 5%-10% in yields and 20%-30% savings in irrigation water.

4 Jul 2017

Good News

Use the paper and grow a plant

Taking into consideration the problem of solid waste management, Compost Santhe, a fair was held by BBMP in collaboration with the civil society activists which proved to be a rather successful one. This fair brought in various ideas to do away with the waste at the same time reuse the waste and also eco-friendly way for waste disposal. The santhe held at Sri Ram Mandir Grounds, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, was marked by a unique display of daily-use commodities made from recycled goods. The products made by artisans from across Karnataka covered a wide range like pencils made of recycled newspapers, cutlery made of sugarcane waste and kitchen bags made of potato starch. What attracted everyone was the initiative ‘Plant the paper’. As per this initiative they emphasized the need to plant trees using handmade paper with seeds embedded in it. Once disposed the paper would sprout in the plants. The seeds in the paper included those of flowering plants, methi and dhaniya. Among the other attractions at the event were solar and terracota waste-composting units, and a large variety of handmade bags, envelopes and reusable sanitary napkins.

15 May 2017

Good News

A green step to avoid pollution

Taking a step ahead to reduce the pollution in the city, over sixty societies in Mumbai have installed solar power plants on their rooftops which generates electricity. With this, Mumbai has taken a step forward to generate power in a green way. Apart from this, 400 other establishments from the state have also taken the same step to generate green energy. Mumbai generates around 1,400 units of green power a day and the same number in the state goes to 11,500 units. This move has surely given a sigh of relief for Mumbaikars by reducing the pollution. As per the report published in The Times of India, the quantity of green power generated everyday is equal to plant 1.75 lakh trees. Usually the power is generated by using coal which is in itself a source of pollution. Taking the cue from these establishments in Mumbai and state there will be 150 more consumers in Mumbai and in state 1,600 establishments, who are planning to set up the same which will avoid pollution by generating electricity unit through coal. Apart from the pollution, this system also makes the consumers a profit in the bill.

22 Mar 2017

Good News

Positive Reads

Breaking the Spiral Code: Scientists Discover End of Fibonacci Sequence Spiral in Tiny Fish

Scientists have recently discovered the point where the Fibonacci sequence spiral, a mathematical pattern found in nature, stops. The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers in which each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. This sequence creates a spiral pattern that can be observed in everything from the growth of plants to the arrangement of galaxies. The research team from the University of Hawaii discovered that the Fibonacci sequence spiral stops in the scales of a tiny fish known as the pearl perch. The scales of the pearl perch are arranged in a pattern that breaks the sequence, effectively ending the spiral. The discovery of the end of the Fibonacci sequence spiral is significant because it sheds light on the limits of mathematical patterns in nature. It also highlights the unique ways in which different species have evolved to adapt to their environments. The pearl perch is a small fish found in the waters off the coast of Australia. Its scales are arranged in a way that enables it to move quickly through the water while also providing protection from predators. The researchers believe that the pattern of the scales evolved over time to meet the specific needs of the fish. The discovery of the end of the Fibonacci sequence spiral in the scales of the pearl perch is just one example of the fascinating ways in which mathematics and nature intersect. As scientists continue to explore the natural world, it is likely that more discoveries like this will be made, deepening our understanding of the universe around us.

5 Jul 2023

Positive Reads

Touching Discovery: Plants Send Unique Signals Through Cells in Response to Touch, Says New Study

New research has revealed that plants respond to touch by sending different signals through their cells, shedding new light on the complexity of plant behavior. The study, published in the journal Nature Plants, found that the cells of plants respond differently to touch depending on the intensity and duration of the stimulus. The research team, led by scientists at the University of California, Davis, used advanced imaging techniques to observe how plants respond to touch. They found that gentle touch triggers a wave of calcium ions, which travel through the plant's cells. In contrast, more intense touch or prolonged touch causes the release of another signaling molecule, called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The findings suggest that plants are capable of much more sophisticated communication and behavior than previously thought. In addition to responding to touch, plants are known to communicate with each other through chemical signals in their roots and leaves. They also respond to changes in their environment, such as changes in temperature or light. The researchers hope that their findings will help to improve our understanding of plant behavior and could lead to new ways to enhance plant growth and productivity. They also suggest that the study could have implications for the development of new technologies in the fields of agriculture and environmental monitoring.

20 Jun 2023

Positive Reads

Four Common, but Amazing Indoor Plants That Help Purify the Air

Plants have a soothing effect on us and the power of plants to purify the air and imbue it with life cannot be ignored. You may wonder whether plants are actually able to purify toxic air. Well, NASA has scientifically proved that some house plants are very effective air purifiers. They had conducted research on them when they were hunting for options to find a lasting source of clean air for their astronauts in extended space travel. Here are the common, but powerful plants that effectively purify the air in our homes. The Snake Plant The snake plant is also endearingly called Mother-in-Law’s tongue as its leaves are long tongue-shaped with pointed tips. It helps to eliminate at least 107 known air pollutants, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen monoxide, formaldehyde, chloroform and benzene among many others. It also produces abundant oxygen throughout the night making it an ideal plant to be kept in the bedroom. The best thing about this plant is that it can go without water for a week and survive in just about any climate. The Money Plant The Money Plant is a common household plant in India and apart from its assumed ability to bring material abundance, you will be happy to know that it is very effective in cleaning the air of toxins. It is capable of removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. VOCs are formed inside the house from synthetic paints or carpets and are considered to be hazardous. The Peace Lily Plant The Peace Lily is a very popular indoor plant. This air purifying plant is effective in eliminating all common indoor pollutants like those generated by furniture, electronics and cleaning products. The good news is that it can survive in indirect sunlight with minimal watering making it an ideal house plant. The Bamboo Palm The Bamboo Palm, also known as the Areca Palm is an excellent natural humidifier that transpires a litre of water in 24 hours. Therefore, it is well suited for dry climates as well as for those with breathing troubles. This low maintenance plant is capable of removing many air pollutants, especially formaldehydes, benzene, and carbon monoxide. The above plants not just enhances the aesthetics of your house, but also gives you clean air. That’s ample reason to adorn your house with indoor plants.

8 Nov 2019

Positive Reads

Gardening, an Activity That Can Pacify the Soul

Gardening makes you a happier person. My grandfather was an ardent gardener and whenever I visited my ancestral home during summer vacations, he made sure to introduce me to all his new plants. He utilized the terrace, balcony and the garden area to the fullest and got every possible pant which adorned the spaces. I saw calmness in my grandfather whenever he used to water the plants or be around them. From hibiscus to basil to sunflower to marigold to basil to mint, he had numerous plants and he treated them like his babies. Discovering Joy of Gardening Once I was playing with my brother in the hall and my granddad came up to us with a beaming face. He asked us whether we wanted to have some okras which were freshly grown at his garden. We got exhilarated and said yes. He then took us to the garden area and showed us how he was growing tomatoes, chilies, and okras. We were absolutely thrilled and asked him why he didn’t show us this space ever. He said it was a surprise. I don’t enjoy eating okras much but, I did that day because it was grown by my granddad. He used to be at his best while gardening and it was a joy to look at him while he took care of the plants. He even told us the negative outcomes of deforestation and how important it is for all of us to keep the greenery intact. Plant Trees, Don't Axe Them My grandfather wouldn’t have been happy to see the current condition of our mother earth if he was alive. Human beings are axing trees just for their selfish needs and its high time people understand how we are becoming the reason behind this huge destruction. Bring Home the Freshness Planting trees around brings positivity and freshness in our lives. Today when we are so overstressed about pity things happening in our day to day life we overlook the happiness in small things. When did you last have a sip of hot tea admiring the beautiful flowers in your garden....yes the thought itself brings the soothing fragrance .... and unknowingly takes away all your tiredness and energizes you. Trees are our true companions who give us freshness and positivity in our lives and so we should take care of them.

21 Jul 2019

Positive Reads

Global News

Plant Nanobionics: A New Era of Sustainable Lighting

Plants have always been a source of food, shelter, and oxygen, but now they could also become a source of light. Thanks to the innovative work of MIT engineers, we may soon see plants replacing our unstable urban electric lighting grid. The engineers have developed a technique to embed special nanoparticles in plant leaves to create a light-emitting plant that can be charged by LEDs. After just 10 seconds of charging, the plants glow for several minutes and can be recharged over and over again. The glow of these plants is ten times brighter than the first generation of glowing plants. This breakthrough paves the way for a future where plant-based lighting is the norm, and electrical energy for living plants is no longer a far-fetched idea. The researchers behind this work have coined the term "plant nanobionics" to describe the emerging field of giving plants new features by embedding them with different types of nanoparticles. They created the first generation of light-emitting plants using nanoparticles that carry luciferase and luciferin, which work together to give fireflies their glow. But in their latest study, they wanted to create components that could increase the duration of light and make it brighter. The researchers came up with the idea of using a capacitor, a part of an electrical circuit that can store electricity and release it when needed. In the case of glowing plants, a light capacitor can be used to store light in the form of photons, which can be slowly released over time. The researchers used a compound called strontium aluminate to create their light capacitor. Before embedding them in plants, they coated the particles in silica, which protects the plant from damage. This breakthrough has the potential to transform the way we think about energy and lighting, and it is a significant step towards a more sustainable future. The researchers have shown that plants can be used not only for their aesthetic beauty but also for their ability to generate light, making them an integral part of our urban landscape. The possibilities for this technology are endless, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for plant nanobionics.

3 Apr 2023

Global News

Global Inspirations

How Trash on Mt Everest Is Turned Into Treasure by Sensible and Sustainable Means

Mount Everest the scene of pristine natural beauty, unfortunately, came to be known as the ‘highest dumpster in the world’ due to years of the accumulated waste left by mountaineers who throng the mountain to scale the world’s highest peak. After facing criticism for the unclean state of this majestic mountain, Nepal’s government and mountaineering groups organized a six week clean up this year. Dedicated Efforts The workers who are on a mission to clean up the world’s tallest mountain are manually collecting tones of trash which include empty cans and gas canisters, bottles, plastic and discarded climbing gears. These are then sent to recycling centres. A 14 member strong team scaled almost 26,300 feet from base camp to the closest camp to the summit and retrieved more than 10 tons of trash that were flown or driven to recycling centres in Kathmandu. Turning Trash To Treasure The workers manually sort the trash – iron, shredded aluminium, cans etc which are sent appropriate places like rod manufacturing firms or utensil makers for their rebirth. Gradually, upcycled items like pots, lamps, light fixtures, household items like glasses are finding its way into homes, upmarket restaurants and even five-star hotels. While authorities and businesses are finding sustainable and environment-friendly ways to tackle waste left at the Mount Everest, it is also the duty of every mountaineer to pick up and carry their trash back to the place where they could be disposed off in a responsible manner.

25 Oct 2019

Global Inspirations

Star Citizens

People Are Drawing Inspiration From a Forest Officer Who Created a Beautiful Garden From Waste!

Papan Mohanta is a forest range officer at Pirakata Range under Midnapur division. For the past four years, he has been dedicating his time after the usual work hours to create a unique, but beautiful garden that has been drawing crowds. What is unique about the garden is that it has been made out of waste plastic bottles and rubber tyres. It is amazing that Mohanta thought of creating a thing of beauty with discarded items. He has been working on the garden for the past four years. Mohanta’s brainchild is situated in the space near his Pirakata range office. He said that when he was first posted in the area, he noticed lots of waste and immediately felt the need to beautify the place. Initially, while working on the garden, it was all trial and error for him, but gradually he learned how to put the waste to good use while creating such a garden. His experiments have now become an inspiration for the locals who are trying to emulate his extraordinary work. Mohanta filled nearly 1,100 waste plastic bottles and rubber tyres with soil and planted seasonal flowers in them. The garden looks very colourful and vibrant when the plants are in full bloom. Words of appreciation have not stopped flowing for Mohanta who is very happy that nearby schools and even CRPF jawans have followed his method. Mohanta, through his stunning garden, has set an excellent example of how to reshape plastic and conserve the environment.

17 Sep 2019

Star Citizens