All articles tagged with #environmental hazard
A homeowner found a mysterious device in their driveway, which was identified as a disposable vape. This highlights the widespread issue of disposable vape littering, with nearly 500,000 discarded daily, posing environmental and safety hazards due to toxic batteries that can cause fires and pollute soil and water. Many believe reusing or repurposing these devices could mitigate the problem, but convenience often leads to disposal instead.
A cat in Fukuyama, Japan, is missing after falling into a tank of hexavalent chromium at a metal plating factory, prompting officials to warn residents not to touch any abnormal-looking cats. The highly acidic and carcinogenic chemical can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems. The factory has alerted authorities and neighbors, and is now taking measures to prevent animals from sneaking in. As of now, the cat has not been found and may have died due to the chemical exposure.
A cargo ship struck by a Houthi missile in the Red Sea has caused an 18-mile oil slick and is taking on water, posing an environmental hazard. The US has struggled to stop ongoing Houthi attacks on ships, with the group fortifying its weapons stockpile despite US strikes. The attacks have increased in recent days, targeting ships connected to countries other than Israel, including vessels delivering humanitarian aid to Yemen.
A fire broke out at a battery recycling plant in southern France, housing 900 tonnes of lithium batteries, sending thick black smoke into the sky. While the fire is under control, it is expected to last for several hours. Lithium batteries, vital in electrical devices, contain combustible materials and can emit toxic fumes when burning. Authorities have stated that there is no immediate danger to nearby residents, but the potential release of cadmium through fumes is a concern.
A major fire broke out at a battery recycling plant in southern France, with 900 tonnes of lithium batteries on fire, sending a thick black smoke cloud into the sky. Lithium batteries, vital in electrical devices, contain combustible materials and can emit toxic fumes when burning. Firefighters are battling to control the fire, but authorities have stated that there is no immediate danger to nearby residents. The fire is expected to last for several hours, and the site's security note warns of potential emission of cadmium through fumes, although it is not expected to pose an immediate health risk to residents.
A recent study published in Science reveals that formaldehyde, a common environmental hazard found in household products, polluted air, and construction materials, can modify the epigenetic patterns of cells. The research shows that formaldehyde inhibits the production of S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAM), a molecule that regulates epigenetic activity. This leads to a loss of methylation of histones, which control the function of thousands of genes. The study highlights the carcinogenic properties of formaldehyde and emphasizes the need for policies to reduce exposure to this toxic substance.
Nissim Kahlon, a 77-year-old Israeli man, is facing eviction from the home he built into a cliffside over 50 years ago. Despite authorities deeming his home dangerous for the coastline and illegal for habitation, Kahlon refuses to leave, stating that he has nowhere else to go. The Environmental Protection Ministry has called the house an environmental and security hazard, while the Herzliya municipality claims to have alternative housing solutions for Kahlon. He has initiated an appeal and is receiving support from friends and family through crowdfunding for his legal expenses.