http://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-38218119
Originally from South America, the red imported fire ant is being classified as an invasive species to some extent in Australia. It is feared for its burning and possibly lethal sting which has surprisingly caused more than 80 deaths in the United States. The ants are not native to Australia as red-ant colonies entered Australia through the Port of Brisbane in 2001. Urgent action has been called in regards to the red ants in Australia as a report indicates that the insect can trigger up to 3,000 anaphylactic reactions in Australia each year. In fact, reports also reveal that red fire ants can wreak more damage in Australia than feral rabbits, cane toads and foxes combined. It has been claimed that fire ants will be a massive hit to the Australian economy, environment, healthcare system and outdoor lifestyle if action is not taken quickly. The National Red Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program is trying to eradicate the ants from the continent. Firstly, the classification of fire ants as invasive species and the fact that 80 deaths have been caused by the species in the United States were shocking information. The article reminded me of the video regarding cane toads we watched earlier this week. Both demonstrate the negative impacts of the introduction of non-native species to a location. Invasive species have a negative impact on the environment as they alter food webs and disrupt native species; they also largely affect humans by being harmful to health and the economy. The article discussed how the eradication of the species from the continent is being suggested; however, because of what I learned from the cane toad video, this does not seem like a feasible idea. There seems to be a lack of solid strategic plans for the species’ eradication.
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http://appleinsider.com/articles/16/12/01/future-apple-devices-might-warn-users-of-environmental-dangers
Apple published a patent application on covering an "embedded environmental sensor capable of sampling both gas and liquids." This can eventually warn iPhone and Apple Watch users of dangers in their environment. The application describes a method through which an environmental sensor is added into a device speaker cavity where it can analyze material while being protected from the elements. The proposed sensor may consist of components like a "temperature sensor, a carbon monoxide sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, an oxygen sensor, an ozone sensor, other gas sensors, a humidity sensor, a moisture sensor, chemical and biological substance sensors and more." The environmental sensor seems like an interesting and unique idea. I personally believe that it will be beneficial and informative if it is developed as planned. The sensor can provide evidence to people about the surrounding environment and thus, increase awareness and environmental protection. The sensor is also indicative how different scientific fields can fuse together and alleviate the environmental conditions. However, affordability, complexity, and accuracy in regards to the sensor must be considered for its success. |
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May 2017
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