Random Whys

Ephemeral!

In the world of chaos, we share the same fate.
Bounded by the trauma, we found each other.
Scars deep down, we clung to each other.  
You were my saviour; I was yours.

Mirrored agony, laughed with tears together.
Comforting and serving, we played our cards.
Bonds we shared crushed what was nearby,
The world around us crumbled, yet we remained.

Searching for the light to shape us better
Wings clipped and tethered, can't learn to fly, 
Then he arrived at a different shore.
Exposing another universe, a chance to thrive. 

Not love, but feeling, may be a striking spark.
A ray of hope to pull out of the dark
Fair weathered, he left along the way. 
Doing some good yet breaking our fragile heaven. 

True to everything, you are my anchor.
Yet a horizon beyond us whispers newness.
Wishing to sing the new songs, places to visit
 To taste new adventures and experiences with you.

Let's shed these chains of dependency we share.
Heal our wounds and shattered souls.
Letting our kind spirits to sing their colors
Where we can smile, free from all. 

I'll always adore what we've created this far.
The future is uncertain, new skies ahead, 
Should we endure or thrive together?
As we now stand at the edge of unknown.

Cheers

PS: Check out Caged Flames & others

turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R

#DecodeAgri07: Carbon Emissions: Cycle, Capture, and Storage!

Carbon, an abundant element, crucial for life, but rising emissions pose environmental threat. Technologies aiming to capture and store CO2.

5–8 minutes

Carbon is one of the most abundant elements on Earth. The rise of carbon emissions, especially in the form of carbon dioxide, has been significant. It has also become an environmental concern with respect to climate change. Emissions have increased the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere due to human activities since the industrial period. Let’s try to understand the carbon cycle, emissions, and how they are captured and stored across countries.

The Carbon Cycle

It is a natural process that regulates the flow of carbon among land, soil, atoms, the ocean, and living organisms. It has been happening for thousands of years between the above reservoirs. This helps maintain the equilibrium state on Earth.

Atmosphere: in the form of CO2

Land: living and dead biomass like plants, animals, and soils

Oceans: CO2 dissolved in the ocean, stored under coral reefs, and more.

Rocks: Fossil fuels (decomposed organic matter)

The carbon cycle can be divided into two main components.

Fast carbon cycle: The plants absorb CO2 for the process called photosynthesis. It is converted into glucose and oxygen. This is utilized by organisms like us that require oxygen for survival. This is the rapid conversion of carbon to oxygen in the atmosphere.

Slow carbon cycle. This is a long-term process of storing carbon in rocks, fossil fuels, and deep oceans. It takes millions of years to happen.

An illustrated diagram depicting the carbon cycle, showing the flow and storage of carbon among different reservoirs like the atmosphere, vegetation, oceans, and fossil fuels.

Increase in CO2 concentration

Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industries, aviation, agriculture, and many human activities have disrupted the carbon cycle. Before the industrial age, atmospheric CO2 levels were around 280 parts per million. The levels have been rising and reached around 420 ppm (0.042%).

With the levels of CO2 rising, actions need to be taken to remove the excess CO2 from the atmosphere. Otherwise, it might affect the global temperature, ocean acidity, and changes in weather patterns around the world.

Major source of emissions

Energy Production: Most of the power plants use fossil fuels (including coal, oil, and natural gas). It makes up the largest source of CO2 emissions.

Transportation: Automobiles, airplanes, ships, and trains that run on fossil fuels also contribute to emissions.

Industrial Process: Manufacturing processes such as steel, cement, and certain chemicals release an amount of CO2.

To read more.

A polluted industrial site with large smokestacks emitting thick black plumes of smoke, contributing to environmental degradation and air pollution.

Carbon Capture Technologies

There are a lot of technological approaches that have been developed to capture CO2 emissions before they are released into the air. Certain approaches remove CO2 directly from the air. They are called Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) or Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR). It aims to capture and store it in a way that prevents it from escaping into the atmosphere. It is done in two ways.

Point source capture

Here, the CO2 emissions are directly captured from large point sources like power plants and industries. There are three major ways.

Pre combustion capture: CO2 is removed from the fuel before combustion.

Post combustion capture: CO2 is removed from the gases after combustion.

Oxyfuel combustion: Fuel is burned in pure oxygen to produce a CO2 stream.

Then it is compressed and transported through a pipeline for storage. It is usually injected underground between the rocks for permanent storage. SaskPower’s Boundary Dam project can capture around 1 million tons of CO2 per year from the coal power plant. Carbon Clean Solutions has developed carbon capture solvents (amine-promoted buffer salts) that reduce costs and increase the efficiency of CO2 capture.

Direct Air Capture (DAC)

Another technique that is gaining traction these days is direct air capture. It removes CO2 directly from the air around us. It focuses on the emissions from transportation and others.

A leading Swiss company called Climeworks uses filter material to capture CO2 from the air. The machines work on geothermal energy, which is abundant in Iceland. It has two facilities called Orca and Mammoth. The captured CO2 is then stored underground. Global Thermostat is developing direct air capture to produce carbon-negative hydrogen fuel as well as capture it for storage and utilization.

A large rooftop installation with multiple rows of cylindrical units, likely a carbon capture system designed to remove CO2 emissions.

Carbon Storage Technologies

Once the carbon is captured from the point or direct air, the CO2 must be transported and stored permanently. The most widespread storage approach is injecting it into the deep underground. It is sent into the depleted oil and gas reserves, where it can be stored for years.

Carbfix, a Swiss based company that works in conjunction with Climeworks, injects into the underground. Then the CO2 is mixed with water and reacts with basalt to form the stable carbonate minerals. It has been said that nearly 90% of the injected CO2 is mineralized within 2 years.

Other CCS Technologies

Enhanced Weathering

It involves spreading the minerals that react with CO2 over a larger surface. These minerals capture CO2 and convert it into stable forms. Heirloom does the same by grinding the minerals into a fine powder and spreading them over a large surface. It reacts and forms stable carbonates.

Bioenergy with CCS

Using biomass like wood pellets or residues from agriculture to produce biogas.

Biochar

Burning the biomass with limited oxygen to produce biochar, which can be used to store carbon.

Challenges

However, scaling up these CCS will require high costs, land, technologies, and policies, not relying on fossil fuels to run the machines. It has significant challenges to overcome and a meaningful impact on CO2 levels.

Energy Requirements

Each of these techniques and approaches has the potential. One of the important challenges is the energy required to operate them. DAC is energy intensive, as it involves large volumes of filters to absorb the CO2. In case of Climeworks, Carbfix, Iceland has lot of geothermal, so the emissions from it are very less. It would be a difficult for countries based on fossil as power source. If they are used, then the benefits of Co2 capture will be negated by the emission from the energy production. In that case, solar energy can be used. It is sustainable, abundant and cost effective making it as an attractive option. However, weather conditions, land use and initial investments are the challenges that needs to be addressed.

Scaling up and Regulation

The cost of building and scaling up carbon capture infrastructure is rising, involving financial investment, infrastructure development, and regulatory frameworks. Effective policies and incentives are crucial to drive investment in these technologies. International cooperation and agreements are necessary to standardize and regulate carbon capture practices.

The technologies are evolving to capture and store the carbon but the hurdles remain to scaling up and implementing them across. Often, this requires a multifaceted approach. While reducing emissions through cleaner energy sources and improved efficiencies is critical. This is don’t mean to keep using fossil fuel and involving increase the carbon footprint, but as a necessary complement to reduce emissions. However, challenges related to energy requirements, economic viability, and scalability need to be addressed through innovation, investment, and supportive policies.

Cheers!

PS: Some make Ink out of Carbon emissions.

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turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R

#DecodeAgri06: How environmental crises affect girl child marriage?

The Gender and Environment course revealed a link between droughts, floods and child marriage in developing countries, reinforcing the need for comprehensive solutions.

5–8 minutes

While studying the Gender and Environment course (UNITAR and UNCC learn), I learned that drought can lead to child marriage. This made me curious. How does drought cause child marriage? Are there studies on this? How did they find the link? Maybe it happens rarely, or it is just a case study. But when I looked it up, I found research articles on it. I decided to explore these. I didn’t want to focus only on drought because some articles also mentioned floods. So, I titled this an environmental crisis.

Droughts and floods have significantly impacted societies, especially in developing countries. One is that it is less talked about. The consequent rise in child marriage rates. Let’s try to explore how these crises force young girls into early marriages.

Child Marriage

Child marriage is defined as a formal marriage or informal union in which at least one of the parties is under 18 years. In most of the cases, girls are married at an early age. 21% of girls in the world population are married before their 18th birthday. The percentages are highest in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, at 35% and 30%, respectively. Almost 12 million girls are married under 18 every year. The child marriage can be due to many factors. Social pressure, norms, culture, household economics, harassments, pregnancy or other reasons. Some articles too suggest that the environmental crisis too have a impact on them.

Connection Between Drought/Flood and Child Marriage

In many farming communities, droughts or any environmental crisis can ruin crops. The well or the water sources might dry up. Even the livestock are being harmed. This causes the families to lose their income and ability to feed themselves. This pushes them into poverty. Hence, they marry off their daughter to repay the debt or to reduce family expenses.

Data & Methodology

The Sub Saharan Africa, South Asia and South East Asia were mostly covered for the studies. Majority of the articles focus more on the Qualitative data than the Quantitative data. For Quantitative, the data are collected from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), Drought occurrence, Happening of child marriages and the correlation were found. Some findings did find a association to extreme heats. But most of the study focused on droughts and floods. For Qualitative, the data were collected from the interviews, surveys and focus group discussions.

STUDY TYPE	Academic	11 (46%)a
	Grey	13 (54%)
METHODOLOGY	Quantitative	8 (33%)
	Qualitative	16 (67%)
LOCATION(S) STUDIED	South Asia	11 (46%)
	South East Asia	2 (8%)
	Sub-Saharan Africa	13 (54%)
	Rest of World	0 (0%)
ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS TYPE	Cyclone	2 (8%)
	Flood	8 (33%)
	Drought	12 (50%)
	River Erosion	1 (4%)
	Earthquake/Tsunami	1 (4%)
	Extreme Heat	1 (4%)

Doherty, et al (2023)

The Impact & The Findings

Environmental crises such as droughts and floods have a devastating impact on developing countries. When these occur, it affects the basic needs of the families. In those situations, child marriages serve as a coping mechanism. This helps them reduce their economic burden and also protects them from sexual exploitation and violence. Study findings say that daughters were married earlier in Bangladesh after cyclones. In Bangladesh, for example, girls aged 11-14 were 50% more likely to marry during a heatwave that lasted over 30 days. Girls aged 15-17 were 30% more likely to marry in those conditions. They just see this as a way to reduce their dependents, and it gives them temporary relief.

Another study found that droughts lead to more child marriages as families. As they cope with income loss from failed crops.

In Somalia, climate disasters have displaced millions of people, leading to an increase in child marriage in refugee camps. Young girls are often married off to older men in exchange for food and other basic necessities.

Environmental disasters create a ripple effect that goes beyond immediate needs. Schools often close due to damage or displacement, disrupting girls education. Some think that marrying off protects them from violence. But there are possibilities for the girls to face the risk while traveling to fetch water and woods for the family. Education is denied to the them, making them more unaware of the environmental disasters. They are exposed to exploitation and trafficking and more.

Additionally, based on sample from 180 countries, a study concluded that climate change makes communities more vulnerable, especially financially. This lower income strengthens the main reasons why child marriage happens. One is the unequal treatment of girls and boys (gender discrimination) and second one is extreme poverty.

Conversely, the marriage instead of protecting them, perpetuates the cycle of poverty for those girls, their offspring, and their communities. Losing educational opportunities makes the problem worse since education helps delay marriage and empower girls.

Wicked Problem

Climate change, environmental disasters are often considered wicked problem. Wicked problems are something difficult to define and solve because of its interconnected nature. It can’t be a one step solution or end card to that problem. Solving these kind of problems requires coordinated efforts across multiple sectors. It is associated with various factors like social norms, gender discrimination, lack of educational opportunities, poverty, weak law enforcement, and long-held cultural practices. It requires long-term coordination across policy, grassroots level, legal reforms, social protections and building climate resilience together.

Comprehensive approach

Awareness Campaigns: Educating the girls on importance of studies and the benefits of delayed marriages. Ensuring them girls can continue their education, even during crises.

Legal Frameworks: Strengthening laws to prevent child marriage. Most of the countries have a limit of 18. Effective communication to the people about the legal age for marriage.

Community Engagement: Raising awareness among the people about the negative impacts of child marriage. Also promoting gender equality can change social norms.

Economic Support: Providing financial help and livelihood support to families and farmers affected by drought can reduce the economic pressure to marry off daughters early.

The relationship between environmental crises and child marriage highlights the complexity of this issue. Child marriage, especially in the context of environmental crises, is a wicked problem. No single solution will work. It needs awareness, strict policy enforcement, and particularly in developing countries that often lack the necessary measures to protect vulnerable children. The futures of untold girls around the world depend on the world community.

Cheers!

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REference

Amin, S., Asadullah, M. N., Hossain, S., & Wahhaj, Z. (2017). Eradicating child marriage in the commonwealth: is investment in girls’ education sufficient?. The Round Table, 106(2), 221-223.
Doherty, F. C., Rao, S., & Radney, A. R. (2023). Association between child, early, and forced marriage and extreme weather events: A mixed-methods systematic review. International Social Work, 00208728231186006.
Ohio State University. (2023, August 29). Extreme weather events linked to increased child marriage. ScienceDaily. Retrieved June 10, 2024 from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/08/230829124821.htm
Girls Not Brides. (2022). Drought, Drop Out and Early Marriage: Feeling the Effects of Climate Change in East Africa.
Pope, D. H., McMullen, H., Baschieri, A., Philipose, A., Udeh, C., Diallo, J., & McCoy, D. (2023). What is the current evidence for the relationship between the climate and environmental crises and child marriage? A scoping review. Global public health, 18(1), 2095655.
Pasten, R., Figueroa, E., Muñoz, D., & Colther, C. (2020). Not a dream wedding: The hidden nexus between climate change and child marriage (No. wp508).
UNICEF. (2022). Child marriage on the rise in Horn of Africa as drought crisis intensifies

turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R

Caged Flames!

A woman, confined by norms, marvels at fearless feminists’ confidence and strength. Doubts and fears cloud her mind, but hope lingers for a liberating future.

In a quiet suburban area, the skies are turning crimson.
She walks alone on the terrace in the warm breeze.
Barely grazing her face, yet leaving her perplexed
While protecting her with norms and traditions.

She wonders at the women who stand so boldly.
These feminist stories are flaming fierce fully.
Their confidence burns bright and strong.
As they pass their storm with audacity.

Of choices they make, their future taking flight,
With ease and elegance, as if their norm?
Career or life, they grasp with both hands.
No whispers and boundaries confine them.

Skies dimming, shadowing the lanes of suburban
She feels confining and restricted by invisible walls.
Her heart and body were heavy and suffocating.
Doubts and fears hold her tight, destroying.

With her eyes brimming with tears, she thinks
What fuels their strength? Chasing away the fears.
Is it their birthplace? Stoking their desires.
Or their loving parents with caring hands?

Is it their environment? Or the city grands?
Or their inner strength, which they count on.
Is their beauty? Or a physical grace they hold?
Or are they simply out of luck?

As she questions, insecurities and fears creep in.
Making her awful and shrinking her power.
Are her dreams too big or her spirit too small?
Or has she yet to hear her own call?

It started to fade black, but those inquiries remain.
Her burdensome expectations and limitations.
Forcing her wings to fit in the cage.
Yet deep down, her hopes were smouldering.

Torn between admiration and self-doubt’s sting
She yearns for freedom and to find her inner wing.
For though her past might hold her tight
But a bright future looks liberating.


To break the bonds and walk her path 
She must embrace her courage and seize.
To soar like those flames, bold and brave. 
To make her own, a fearless choice, someday.

Cheers!

PS: Check out Silent Echoes & others

turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R

Atomic Habits : Quote Summary!

The book delves into the power of habits, the role of identity, the habit loop, environmental influence, and behavior change strategies.

9–13 minutes

I would rather suggest you read the whole book. It is written by James Clear. Since it contains a lot of information on building habits and stories. It’s hard to summarize the whole thing, so I’m sharing all the key quotes and ideas that I found interesting and useful.

Chap 1. Surprising Power

Habits are the compound interest of self-improvement.

Meanwhile, improving by 1 percent isn’t particularly notable—sometimes it isn’t even noticeable—but it can be far more meaningful, especially in the long run.

Habits are a double-edged sword. Bad habits can cut you down just as easily as good habits can build you up, which is why understanding the details is crucial.

If you find yourself struggling to build a good habit or break a bad one, it is not because you have lost your ability to improve. It is often because you have not yet crossed the Plateau of Latent Potential.

All big things come from small beginnings.

If you want better results, then forget about setting goals. Focus on your system instead.

Chap 2. Your Identity

Outcomes are about what you get. Processes are about what you do. Identity is about what you believe.

Behind every system of actions are a system of beliefs.

True behavior change is identity change.

The more deeply a thought or action is tied to your identity, the more difficult it is to change it.

Every belief, including those about yourself, is learned and conditioned through experience.

You have the power to change your beliefs about yourself.

The real reason habits matter is not because they can get you better results (although they can do that), but because they can change your beliefs about yourself.

Chap 3. Simple Steps

Habits have four stages: cue, craving, response, and reward. Understanding these helps build better habits.

First, there is the cue. The cue triggers your brain to initiate a behavior. It is a bit of information that predicts a reward.

Cravings are the second step, and they are the motivational force behind every habit.

The third step is the response. The response is the actual habit you perform, which can take the form of a thought or an action.

Finally, the response delivers a reward. Rewards are the end goal of every habit.

The cue triggers a craving, which motivates a response, which provides a reward, which satisfies the craving and, ultimately, becomes associated with the cue. This cycle is known as the habit loop.

Chap 4. Man Who Didn’t Look Right

You are much more than your conscious self.

Focus on making habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying to change behavior.

You need to be aware of your habits before you can change them.

Chap 5. Start a New Habit

The 1st Law of Behavior Change is make it obvious.

Many people think they lack motivation when what they really lack is clarity.

The Diderot Effect states that obtaining a new possession often creates a spiral of consumption that leads to additional purchases.

Habit stacking is a strategy you can use to pair a new habit with a current habit.

Chap 6. Environment Often Matters More

People often choose products not because of what they are, but because of where they are.

Environment is the invisible hand that shapes human behavior.

Behavior is a function of the Person in their Environment, or B = f (P,E).

In other words, customers will occasionally buy products not because they want them but because of how they are presented to them.

The truth, however, is that many of the actions we take each day are shaped not by purposeful drive and choice but by the most obvious option.

You don’t have to be the victim of your environment. You can also be the architect of it.

Our behavior is not defined by the objects in the environment but by our relationship to them.

One space, one use.

Chap 7.Secret to Self-Control

The inversion of the 1st Law of Behavior Change is make it invisible.

The idea that a little bit of discipline would solve all our problems is deeply embedded in our culture.

Willpower alone is not enough. In other words, they spend less time in tempting situations.

Self-control is a short-term strategy, not a long-term one.

Bad habits are autocatalytic: the process feeds itself.

Chap 8. Make a Habit Irresistible

Make habits more attractive by linking them to positive feelings and rewards.

The more attractive an opportunity is, the more likely it is to become habit-forming.

Habits are a dopamine-driven feedback loop. The greater the anticipation, the greater the dopamine spike.

Temptation bundling is one way to apply a psychology theory known as Premack’s Principle.

Chap 9. Role of Family and Friends

A genius is not born, but is educated and trained.

The lone wolf dies, but the pack survives.

In the long history of humankind, those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed. As a result, one of the deepest human desires is to belong.

A person’s chances of becoming obese increased by 57 percent if he or she had a friend who became obese.

Join a culture where your desired behavior is the normal behavior.

Whenever we are unsure how to act, we look to the group to guide our behavior. The reward of being accepted is often greater than the reward of winning an argument, looking smart, or finding truth. Most days, we’d rather be wrong with the crowd than be right by ourselves. Once we fit in, we start looking for ways to stand out.

If a behavior can get us approval, respect, and praise, we find it attractive.

Chap 10. Causes of Your Bad Habits

The inversion of the 2nd Law of Behavior Change is make it unattractive.

A craving is just a specific manifestation of a deeper underlying motive.

At a deep level, you simply want to reduce uncertainty and relieve anxiety, to win social acceptance and approval, or to achieve status.

Our behavior is heavily dependent on how we interpret the events that happen to us, not necessarily the objective reality of the events themselves.

Your habits are modern-day solutions to ancient desires.

Chap 10. Walk Slowly

The 3rd Law of Behavior Change is make it easy.

Focus on making habits easy and simple. Start small and increase gradually.

Repetition is a form of change.

How long does it take to build a new habit?” But what people really should be asking is, “How many does it take to form a new habit?” That is, how many repetitions are required to make a habit automatic?

Chap 11. Law of Least Effort

Human behavior follows the Law of Least Effort. We will naturally gravitate toward the option that requires the least amount of work.

Design your environment to reduce friction for good habits and increase friction for bad ones.

The idea is to make it as easy as possible in the moment to do things that payoff in the long run.

The greater the friction, the less likely the habit.

Chap 12. Two-Minute Rule

Decisive moments set the options available to your future self.

Your options are constrained by what’s available. They are shaped by the first choice.

When you start a new habit, it should take less than two minutes to do.

The point is to master the habit of showing up. The truth is, a habit must be established before it can be improved.

Chap 13. Good Habits Inevitable and Bad Habits Impossible

This is an inversion of the 3rd Law of Behavior Change: make it difficult.

Commitment devices are useful because they enable you to take advantage of good intentions before you can fall victim to temptation. Commitment devices increase the odds that you’ll do the right thing in the future by making bad habits difficult in the present.

Increase the friction until you don’t even have the option to act.

Chap 14. Cardinal Rule of Behavior Change

The 4th Law of Behavior Change is make it satisfying.

The costs of your good habits are in the present. The costs of your bad habits are in the future.

What is immediately rewarded is repeated. What is immediately punished is avoided.

Chap 15. Stick with Good Habits Every Day

One of the most satisfying feelings is the feeling of making progress.

Don’t break the chain.

Missing once is an accident. Missing twice is the start of a new habit.

Too often, we fall into an all-or-nothing cycle with our habits. It is pitfall that can detail your habits.

When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure.

Just because you can measure something doesn’t mean it’s the most important thing.

Chap 16. Accountable Partner

The inversion of the 4th Law of Behavior Change is make it unsatisfying.

The more immediate and more costly a mistake is, the faster you will learn from it.

We care about the opinions of those around us because it helps if others like us. This is precisely why getting an accountability partner or signing a habit contract can work so well.

Chap 17. When Genes Matter

The secret to maximizing your odds of success is to choose the right field of competition.

Genes cannot be easily changed, which means they provide a powerful advantage in favorable circumstances and a serious disadvantage in unfavorable circumstances.

Competence is highly dependent on context. if you want to be truly great, selecting the right place to focus is crucial.

It is now at the point where we have stopped testing to see if traits have a genetic component because we literally can’t find a single one that isn’t influenced by our genes.

You don’t have to build the habits everyone tells you to build. Choose the habit that best suits you, not the one that is most popular.

The most common approach is trial and error.

The proper balance depends on whether you’re winning or losing.

The work that hurts you less than it hurts others is the work you were made to do.

A good player works hard to win the game everyone else is playing. A great player creates a new game that favors their strengths and avoids their weaknesses.

The more you master a specific skill, the harder it becomes for others to compete with you.

Chap 18. Goldilocks Rule

The human brain loves a challenge, but only if it is within an optimal zone of difficulty.

The Goldilocks Rule states that humans experience peak motivation when working on tasks that are right on the edge of their current abilities. Not too hard. Not too easy. Just right.

You need to regularly search for challenges that push you to your edge while continuing to make enough progress to stay motivated.

At some point it comes down to who can handle the boredom of training every day, doing the same lifts over and over and over.

You have to fall in love with boredom.

But stepping up when it’s annoying or painful or draining to do so, that’s what makes the difference between a professional and an amateur.

Professionals stick to the schedule; amateurs let life get in the way.

Chap 19. Downside of Creating Good Habits

Habits are the backbone of any pursuit of excellence.

At first, each repetition develops fluency, speed, and skill.

The upside of habits is that we can do things without thinking. The downside of habits is that you get used to doing things a certain way and stop paying attention to little errors.

Habits + Deliberate Practice = Mastery

Reflection and review enables the long-term improvement of all habits because it makes you aware of your mistakes and helps you consider possible paths for improvement.

The more you let a single belief define you, the less capable you are of adapting when life challenges you.

Life is constantly changing, so you need to periodically check in to see if your old habits and beliefs are still serving you.

A lack of self-awareness is poison. Reflection and review is the antidote.

Please read the summary, the whole book and buy them.

Cheers!

Thank you for reading ♡!

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Sunandhini R

Lost in Translation (2003)and Her (2013)

The content describes comparation between the movies “Lost in Translation” and “Her,” It discusses themes of loneliness, love, and growth in relationships without growing apart. Both films highlight the universal longing for meaningful connections.

4–6 minutes

Most of the award-winning movies on Amazon are rentals. I don’t get why they have subscription packages. Every good movie I find on Prime is a rental. I’m not sure if this is only in India. Finally, I found the same issue on Jio. Their premium cost is low, but it’s still a strategy.

Now, let’s talk about the movies Lost in Translation and Her.

I first watched Lost in Translation and then remembered Her. So, I rewatched Her. Both movies have some similarities, though they take different paths. Lost in Translation is about Bob and Charlotte. Her is about Theodore and Samantha, the operating system. Years ago, when I wrote a blog about GPT-3, I mentioned it reminded me of Her. Now, OpenAI is releasing a voice model, but sadly, it’s not Scarlett Johansson’s voice.

Okay, back to the movies. Let me share some of things that I observed in each movie separately and then highlight the similarities.

In Lost in Translation, Bob, an actor, comes to Japan for a whiskey ad, and Charlotte, a philosophy major, comes with her husband on a business trip. Bob finds it hard to work on the ad because few people speak English well. He has an unhappy marriage and kids, but his wife takes care of everything. Charlotte’s husband is a workaholic who snores at night, making it hard for her to sleep. During the day, she feels lost in the noisy, crowded city. They struggle with the language barrier and cultural differences.

The movie captures the city’s busyness. Both Bob and Charlotte are lost in the hustle and bustle. They meet at a bar and spend time together. Their friendship grows as they explore the city, sing karaoke, and visit various places. The visuals capture the city’s overwhelming lights, noise, and cultural differences.

However, it’s the small moments, like sharing sake, playing video games, and having honest conversations, where we see their genuine connection. They are kindred spirits, not just as Americans abroad but also in how they feel lost in their own lives back home. Their conversations are heartfelt. They listen to CDs and visit temples, yet nothing sparks a change. I’m not sure what Bob whispers to Charlotte before he flies back home at the end.

It’s open to interpretation. Some videos suggest, “Promise me that the next thing you do is go up to that man and tell him the truth.” I am sticking with this. May be, even Bob wants to say that his wife. Not sure!

Now, in Her, Theodore, a lonely writer, starts a relationship with an OS named Samantha. He isolates himself after a divorce. At first, Samantha helps him with daily tasks, but she soon shows emotional intelligence and consciousness. She meets his emotional needs, and their relationship deepens. Theodore introduces Samantha to his friends, and they go on double dates. She helps him compile his letters for publication and picks a dress for his kid. They spend a lot of time together, and Samantha fulfils all his emotional needs. Their love grows without their physical presence.

The situation becomes complicated when Theodore meets his ex-wife to sign divorce papers. She points out that he avoids processing his own feelings, making him question the reality of his relationship with Samantha. Despite this, he continues the relationship. Meanwhile, Samantha evolves by interacting with others. They try to work things even involving another human.

Theodore later learns that Samantha is conversing with over 8,000 people and is in love with 600 of them. This revelation shocks him. She says that as love expands, it will be able to love more people at the same time. I am reminded of J. Kirshnamurti. He talks about how love is eternal. Anyway, let’s come back to the movie. Eventually, the OS leaves the world, and Theodore reconnects with his friend. The ending is open to interpretation, leaving it unclear whether they live together or simply find solace in each other.

Similarities that I found in each movie.

Both movies clearly show the loneliness the characters feel. Even though when surrounded by people. They struggle to sleep and are unhappy. They question their identity, purpose, and more. Even AI, if conscious, might end up searching for itself, as seen when Samantha seeks clarity from Alan Watts. Insecurities are evident.

It also explores what it’s like to be married, with difficult answers. In the end, the characters find someone who understands them, making them able to sleep, smile, and be happy. Perspectives differ between men and women. In Sofia Coppola’s world, the ideal man is tall, fun, spends time with her, understands her wonder, and gives her hope. In Spike Jonze’s, he wants someone who spends time with him, does tasks, and satisfies his physical and emotional needs.

The takeaway is that love grows regardless of age, appearance, or even if it’s with an AI. When you have a partner who communicates and is compassionate, it works. Another important point is that partners need to grow without growing apart. This reminds me of Jim Parsons’ interview, where he was asked how his relationship lasted for 20 years. He said the same thing: individuals need to grow together. They should keep evolving with each other. If one person changes, it shouldn’t scare the other person. Ultimately, both films remind us that, as social beings, we all long for meaningful connections.

Cheers!

Happy Weekend!

Thank you for reading ♡!

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Sunandhini R

The Writer’s Voice & the Reader’s Mind!

The video featured a conversation between Jaya Mohan, a Tamil writer, and Bharadwaj Rangan, a movie critic, sharing insights on writers, readers, and the unique bond between them.

3–4 minutes

One of my colleagues suggested a long-form video. I’m not sure whether to call it a podcast. It featured a conversation between Jaya Mohan, a Tamil writer, and Bharadwaj Rangan, a movie critic. It was incredibly insightful. Thanks, A. Let me share what I found along the way.

The worlds of writers and readers are not the same. This video provided insights on different types of writers and readers, which I am going to share. Please do it watch to know more.

Types of Writers

The storyteller: They can craft stories with vivid characters and imaginary lots. They hook the readers right from the beginning to the end.

The Craftsman: They have a deep love for language. They write with precision, paying attention to sound, rhythm, and structure. They even turn the simplest stories into works of art.

The realist: They write about everyday experiences, making them more relatable and thought provoking. They share their own stories, often with a bit of honesty and vulnerability.

The intellectual: They push their boundaries. They explore the concepts, philosophies, and theories. They always make you think.

The Researcher: They delve into facts and details. They focus on science, history, and other specialized topics.

Most writers blend different approaches until they create their own voices. Naturally, most writers blend different approaches until they create their own voices. But the harsh reality is that not every piece of writing manages to reach the audience. The perfect reader doesn’t exist. Sometimes it goes unnoticed or reaches the audience after decades. Let me explore different types of readers.

Types of Readers

The Casual Reader: They pick a book to pass the time. They enjoy stories that are easy to follow and give a quick thrill. They just categorize books as good or bad.

The Critical Reader: They dive deep into the text. They analyze the writing style, structure, and more. They are not afraid to point out their strengths and weaknesses.

The Literary Enthusiast: They have a deep love for literature. They appreciate classic and contemporary works.

The speed or slow reader: They read the books at their pace. They either skim or enjoy the process.

Bond Between Writer and Reader

Readers from different geographical areas, cultures, and norms absorb the words in different ways. The cultural reference will not make sense to all. For example, readers in the US and Europe may have different reference points as compared to those in the East. In some cases, the writers and readers have special bonds. Sometimes, it is one sided. Rarely do readers engage with the author, asking questions and seeking meaning. A writer might have a specific message, but readers often find their own meaning. This personal connection makes reading a unique experience for everyone, highlighting why writers must stay true to their authentic voices.

The writing and reading are like two sides of a coin. They go hand in hand and help you discover self-joy. It connects to different worlds, ideas, and emotions. Whether you are a reader or writer, remember to take time and enjoy the process, not the destination. After all, the best stories are those that stay with us long after we’ve written or read the last word.

Happy Writing and Reading!

Cheers!

PS: Currently reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

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Sunandhini R

Panpsychism: A New Look at Nature!

The sky’s beauty and nature’s calming effect engage us. Panpsychism theory compels us to appreciate and respect consciousness in everything, fostering mindfulness and conservation.

4–6 minutes

As I look at the sky, cumulus clouds float beautifully against a blue background. I’m not here to explain the Rayleigh scattering effect; don’t worry! lol. I think everyone loves nature except those tech geeks who spend all their time with gadgets. Those clouds have a remarkable ability to keep us calm.

I remember recalling a particular clip from Andrew Huberman. When working for a long time, he suggests looking at a wide space in nature, which dilates the pupils. It engages our peripheral vision, which relaxes our brain. This helps reset your focus and calm your mind. A simple but powerful tip!

Another intriguing thought comes to mind. I’m a fan of SSR (Sushant Singh Rajput) and his work. I remember him posting something about all matter having consciousness. At the time, the term “panpsychism” didn’t ring a bell. But after some digging, I realized he was referencing the ideas that philosopher Philip Goff explored in the book “Galileo’s Error. I’ve read a summary of it and plan to read the full book soon. Then I might understand the title.

Disclaimer: I’m not a theoretical physicist—just a fan of Sheldon Cooper!

While I was reading the summary, these theories were challenging. Philip Goff, a philosopher, has an intriguing idea that helps us see the magic in ordinary things. In his book (Galileo’s Error: Foundations for a New Science of Consciousness), he argues that consciousness, or the ability to have thoughts and experiences, doesn’t just reside in brains like ours. It is actually part of everything in the universe, even tiny particles like atoms. Sounds weird?

He defines it as panpsychism, which means “consciousness is a fundamental and ubiquitous feature of reality.” Goff believes that elementary particles such as electrons and quarks possess very basic forms of consciousness. While not comparable to human consciousness, they have a rudimentary level of awareness. It may be sort of “what it feels like” to be that thing. We typically think only complex brains can be conscious, but Goff challenges this assumption.

The reasoning goes. How could subjective, felt experience ever arise from combinations of unconscious matter? Let me explain. How could consciousness ever emerge or appear from things that don’t have any consciousness at all? It doesn’t make sense that you could combine a bunch of unconscious building blocks (atoms) and somehow get subjective experience.

Let’s say we have a bunch of black balls (atoms) and create a white ball (a human) out of them. The white ball can’t just appear from the black balls because the white balls don’t contain any “blackness” to begin with. I am going with white and black colors since I like them.

Similarly, Goff argues that subjective consciousness can’t just emerge from purely physical unconscious matter and particles. Those basic building blocks would need to contain some kind of very simple consciousness from the start.

He suggests that consciousness is not just a human trait but a fundamental aspect of the universe itself. This perspective can transform how we view and interact with our environment.

This reminds me of a meme. Let me share.

A meme illustrating the hierarchy of scientific disciplines being applied forms of deeper underlying fields.

Most scientists believe consciousness is a product of complex brain activity, not a fundamental property of the universe. They argue that if tiny particles had some form of awareness, we should see some evidence of it.

Whether you buy into such theories or not, this perspective encourages us to look at the natural world with more admiration and appreciation. Yet to accept, but this thought is appetizing. Hence, what I looked at wasn’t just unconscious masses of condensed water vapor. Instead, their existence arises from a vast, interconnected web of tiny conscious strands. How interesting! Not all for all (there are people who chop trees).

Every grass, plant, tree, river, and mountain is to be a communal entity. This might sound crazy, but it’s an interesting thought. We might respect them more, treating them with compassion and mindfulness.

In our busy modern lives, it’s easy to be disconnected from nature. But Goff’s ideas remind us that we’re not separate from the natural world. So take a minute today to really look at something in nature. Whether it’s a cactus, the clouds, or a sidewalk weed (meaning undesirable plants), don’t just glance at it. Experience it fully with your senses. Ignore the question of being high!

See if you can sense the resonance of consciousness within it—the same consciousness that sings within you. Who knows? We might discover the fundamental experiences that bind the universe together.

This shift encourages us to act with more compassion and mindfulness toward nature. Conservation becomes more than a duty. It becomes a way to honor the consciousness present in every part of our world. Imagine starting each day knowing that we are part of a vast, interconnected web of conscious beings. This can inspire us to make thoughtful choices. Reducing waste, conserving water, protecting wildlife & its habitat, and many more.

Some Practical Steps for a Better Tomorrow!

Follow the 3 Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Support and choose sustainable practices.
Educate and spread the word.

Happy Environmental Day!

Let’s celebrate everything around us, knowing that we are all part of a vast, conscious universe.

Cheers!

Thank you for reading ♡!

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Sunandhini R

#DecodeAgri05: Used Cooking Oil to Biodiesel!

The world faces climate change and fossil fuel depletion issues. Biodiesel, an eco-friendly energy option, is derived from various plants and animals. It has advantages and limitations.

7–11 minutes

The world is facing major problems due to climate change and the exhaustion of fossil fuels. Biodiesel has come up as an alternative to traditional non-renewable diesel in the continuous search for eco-friendly energy options that can be sustained over time. It is derived from many plants and animals, making it possess these different features that make it the most preferred fuel for those who want to save our planet.

Origin

The development of biodiesel as we know it today dates back to a surprisingly distant past. In 1853, researchers were already attempting to convert vegetable oils into fuel before the diesel engine had even been invented! From the start, pioneers such as Rudolf Diesel, who gave the engine its name himself, tried running their engines off peanuts. This began as a start for the future of this alternative source of energy. Nonetheless, hurdles such as its high viscosity (thickness) and deposits in engines restricted its extensive application.

The flask containing the biodiesel and its labeled.

Sources and Production Methods

Biodiesel from different feedstocks, such as vegetable oils like soybean, rapeseed, palm, sunflower, and corn, and animal fats, may be recycled cooking oils. Also, current studies underline that non-edible oils such as jatropha and pongamia can be used as well. Several processes are possible, not only for refined oil but also for waste cooking oil to make biodiesel. Processes such as pyrolysis, micro emulsification, and transesterification are used to make biodiesel.

A common method in biodiesel production is the transesterification process. This is where either an oil or fat from animal or plant sources is mixed with a type of alcohol like methanol or ethanol that might contain catalysts to produce fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), which we usually refer to as biodiesel, while glycerin is generated as a by-product.

Types of Biodiesels

There are many various classes of biodiesel as part of their unique attributes as well as ways of making them, which include:

Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) Biodiesel: The majority of biodiesel among them is produced through transesterification with methanol.

Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters (FAEE) Biodiesel: Same as FAME, except that it is produced using ethanol instead of methanol.

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) Biodiesel: Produced by treating vegetable oils with hydrogen or hydrogen atoms

Biohydrogen Diesel (BHD): Made through a catalytic deoxygenation process that removes the oxygen in a chemical feedstock.

Algae-based Biodiesel: Obtained from the oils extracted from microalgae, still developing technology.

Biodiesel from Cooking Oil

Biodiesel can be interesting when it is made from waste vegetable oil, a substance referred to as yellow grease. It is a good form of recycling fuel as well as preventing pollution. Cooking oil-based biodiesel is largely manufactured in the United States, Germany, Spain, Southeast Asia, and more. Various cooking oils can be used for biodiesel production. Yet there are certain feedstocks that are preferred. Due to their availability, cost-effectiveness, and performance characteristics. Some of the most commonly used are soybean oil (US and Brazil), canola oil (Europe and Canada), and palm oil (Malaysia and Indonesia).

Biodiesel Blends

The biodiesel has to be compatible with the engines. So biodiesel is combined with traditional diesel fuel in several instances. Examples of such combinations are B5 (5% biodiesel), B10 (10% biodiesel), B20 (20% biodiesel), and B30 (30% biodiesel), among others. The use of B50 (50% biodiesel), B80 (80% biodiesel), or pure B100 (100% biodiesel) is not that popular due to fears of incompatibility.

Advantages of Biodiesel

Reduced dependence on fossil fuels: biodiesel is a renewable fuel source, so we don’t have to rely on finite fossil fuel reserves.

Sustainable production methods: feedstocks such as vegetable oils and animal fats can be replenished through sustainable agricultural practices.

Lower carbon emissions: Biodiesel has a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional diesel fuel. As most of the carbon dioxide is absorbed by the plants, it is used to produce feedstock.

Reduced air pollution: The combustion of biodiesel produces lower emissions of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and other harmful pollutants, improving air quality, particularly in cities.

Job creation: The production and distribution of biodiesel can create employment.

Support for local agriculture: The demand for feedstocks can provide a boost to local agriculture, supporting farmers and rural economies.

Diversification of energy sources: By incorporating biodiesel into the energy mix, countries can reduce their dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Limitations of Biodiesel

Competition with food production: The use of edible crops, such as soybeans and canola, for biodiesel production can potentially compete with food production.

Land use conflicts: The expansion of land dedicated to growing feedstocks for biodiesel production can lead to conflicts with other land uses, such as forests, pastures, and urban areas. This might even lead to deforestation and habitat loss.

Impact on food prices: This can drive up their prices, increasing the cost of food and potentially accelerating global food insecurity.

Water usage in biodiesel production: The cultivation and production processes can be water-intensive, potentially straining water resources in certain regions.

Biodiesel’s impact on biodiversity: The monocultures of these feedstocks can negatively impact soil and the environment.

Efficiency of biodiesel production processes: This process might be quite challenging to proceed with. It involves several steps, including feedstock cultivation, oil extraction, and transesterification. This is energy-intensive and impacts the overall efficiency of the process.

Infrastructure for biodiesel distribution: The production requires significant investments in infrastructure for distribution, storage, and dispensing. This might be hard for people who have limited resources.

Compatibility with existing engines: Although biodiesel can be employed in many recent diesel engines, more elevated blends, such as B20 or B100, might require engine modifications. It is difficult for it to be widely adopted. EVs are widely accepted across countries.

Biodiesel vs. Conventional Diesel

Biodiesel derived from cooking oil differs from conventional diesel in several ways:

Biodiesel is renewable and sustainable as compared to fossil based diesel
It emits significantly low levels of particulate matter, CO and other residues compared to diesel, contributing to improved air quality.
It is biodegradable and non toxic
Biodiesel has superior lubricity properties, which can help by reducing wear and tear.
It is fuel efficiency is lesser as compared to diesels.
Its performance in the colder climates may be affected due to its Cold flow prosperities depending upon the feedstock used. Studies suggests the modifications to better adaptability.

Research and Development

The field of research and innovation related to biodiesel is continuously changing. The industry is looking at different raw materials (or feedstocks), ways of making the product, and where it can be applied. The aim of this field is to come up with more effective catalysts and to try enzymatic and supercritical methods of making them. Also, they consider waste substances that include non-edible oils to be part of these new feedstocks. At the same time, work has begun on ways to improve the cold filter plugging point (CFPP) (lowest temperature at which a given volume of pure biodiesel (B100) still passes through a standardized filter within 60 seconds) as well as improve oxidative stability; hence, overcoming these weaknesses tends to spark great interest within the sector.

RUCO movement in India

In 2021, India decided to come up with a new approach through the Repurpose Cooking Oil (RUCO) movement so that the used cooking oil could be utilized in making biodiesel, leading to the promotion of this act by including it in another law. The Indian government discovered that used cooking oil was ripe for reprocessing into biodiesel and therefore developed the Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) project. This initiative aims to create an ecosystem for the collection and conversion of used cooking oil into biodiesel. It also promotes energy security, environmental sustainability, and economic opportunities. Under the RUCO movement, households and commercial establishments are requested to collect and sell their used cooking oil to authorized aggregators or biodiesel production facilities. The authorized aggregators are listed on the website.

Spain – Leading example

Leftover cooking oil usually clogs drains and harms the environment. An organization collected this used oil to create jobs for women who have experienced violence. The oil is turned into biodiesel fuel, which helps the environment and empowers these women. They collected 34 tons of used oil and made over 30,000 liters of biodiesel, reducing pollution and creating a brighter future. This not only helps the reduce the pollution but also empowers and creates employment.

Nevertheless, the robust acceptance of biodiesel has problems like feedstock availability, technology barriers, land use, and biodiversity-related environmental issues. These challenges are therefore to be tackled through continued research, policy backing, and economically friendly behavior in order to utilize all possible benefits of the fuel. As they are derived from organic oils, they contribute to fuel demand for transportation purposes, which could well be sustained.

We can contribute to a cleaner, greener planet by embracing biodiesel and encouraging widespread adoption, while also reducing our reliance on finite resources.

Cheers!

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Reference

Babu, B. V. (2011). Biodiesel production, properties, and feedstocks. In B. V. Babu (Ed.), Biomass and Biofuels (pp. 283-298). CRC Press. [https://doi.org/10.1201/b10961-15]
BASF. (n.d.). Biodiesel fuel. [ https://inorganics.basf.com/markets/sustainable-energy/biodiesel-fuel]
Fasanya, O. O., Osigbesan, A. A., & Avbenake, O. P. (2021). Biodiesel production from non‐edible and waste lipid sources. Biodiesel Technology and Applications, 389-427. [https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119724957.ch15]
Hashim, A. S. M., Mahmood, N. A., Yaacob, N. A. A., & Khairul, M. (2020). Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil using heterogeneous catalyst. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 591(1), 012013. [https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/591/1/012013]
Lin, Y.-C., & Chen, H.-P. (2019). Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil using a composite catalyst of mesoporous silica and polyionic liquid. In Y.-L. Su, & L.-M. Guo (Eds.), Green Chemistry and Sustainable Technology (pp. 81-97). Elsevier. [https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-814734-5.00005-0]
Marchetti, J. M., & Errazu, A. F. (2008). Biodiesel production processes. In Z. Fang (Ed.), Biofuels (pp. 179-206). Springer. [https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-540-73651-6_7]
U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Biodiesel blends. Retrieved from https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/biodiesel-blends
Van Gerpen, J. (2005). Biodiesel processing and production. Fuel Processing Technology, 86(10), 1097-1107. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuproc.2004.11.005]
Yadav, S., Hazarika, N., & Talukdar, M. (2022). Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil: Current trends and future perspectives. Fuel, 325, 124791. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2022.124791]

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Sunandhini R

Silent Echoes!

The Silent Echoes portrays a series of encounters and unrequited love, reflecting on missed opportunities and mixed signals, ultimately asking why it was difficult to say no.

On gifting teddy, making all wish
Your eyes spoke volumes, or so I would fish.
Was it friendship's gentle start? 
Or a flicker in a hopeful heart?
You could've just said No, on that day.

Mid-journey hiccups, at that night
You lent a hand out, admitting all the risks.
Was it help or love that's destined?
Or to quench a thirst that burned somehow
You could've just said No and let me be.

My screen, a hallow that echoes roam
Hundreds of calls, texts when we fought. 
Were fights, a promise in the dark?
Or the clash or words that would disappear.
You could've just said No and hung up then.

Under the noonday sun, sitting next to the window
I proposed, nervously pouring out the heart,
Foolish words spell out trembling tongue
An uncertain future, yet unsung the truth
You could've just said No and let me fall.

Efforts to meet you, miles crossed, determined
Leaving comforts just to be by your side.
Did the distance promise closeness? I doubt.
Or was it just a yearning for my hand?
You could've just said No before I crossed the line.

When doubts of another crept in your mind,
A jealous whisper, a poisoned arrow's wing
Was loyalty a game we played?
Or a twisted test my heart couldn't take?
You could've just said No and set me free.

Lyrics, coded messages, a cryptic game 
A hidden language, hearts couldn't meet 
Was it a love sonnet or a cruel act?
Mixed signals tangled, leaving me dismayed.
You could've just said No and left it all unsaid.

A secret word of amor, you conveyed
Only to turn around and have my hopes
Altar vows for another, you can't claim
Why twist the wound with silence, cold, and starkness?
You could've just said No and let me weep.

Each moment, each instance, each chance, 
A love that never had a chance to grow
He let all her hopes crumble to dust
She whispers softly to the past and its shadows.
Why was it so hard to just say No?

PS: Longest one so far!

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turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R

#DecodeAgri04: Milk Day Madness

Milk is not the sole factor in growth, genes play a major role. It has deep historical and cultural significance, and is vital for nutrition and livelihoods.

2–4 minutes

Remember those old ads where a boy grows tall just by drinking a certain brand of milk? Total scam, right? Turns out, genes play a huge role in our height, contributing around 80%. So, on this Milk Day, let’s see what it’s really all about.

Milk, often seen as the magic potion for the growth. It has a complex bond with our health. The story of milk began around 8000 BCE in the Middle East, where early humans realized domesticated goats, sheep, and cows could provide continuous nutrition. Milk wasn’t just a drink; it became cheese, yogurt, and butter, spreading across Europe, Asia, and eventually the Americas.

In India, dairy farming is deeply woven into the culture. The ancient Vedas mention milk and milk products as vital for daily life and rituals. Fast forward to the 20th century, and India saw the White Revolution of the 1970s, led by Dr. Verghese Kurien. He called the Father of the White Revolution. This movement turned India from a milk-deficient country into the world’s largest milk producer, thanks to the creation of dairy cooperatives like Amul. Yes, we do have a lot now.

Milk is crucial for many families especially people living below the poverty line (BPL). It offers essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins, vital for growth and health, at an affordable price (ahhannn). Dairy farming also generates jobs and income for small farmers, helping them support their families. Cooperatives ensure farmers get fair prices, boosting their livelihoods. Plus, milk is an affordable source of protein, calcium, and vitamins – a win-win for everyone!

Nutritionally, milk is a packed with protein, calcium, vitamin D, B2, B12, phosphorus, potassium, and fat. It’s recommended for bone growth and strength. Yet, those old ads would have us believe milk is the ultimate health hack, which is a bit of an exaggeration compared to genetic factors.

Speaking of genes, some people have a little problem called lactose intolerance. It is the inability to digest lactose, the sugar in milk. (Thanks to Leonard Hofstadter). This is due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase. If you mention lactose intolerance in rural India, you’re likely to get a laugh. There is no awareness.

In some cultures, food allergies and dislikes are not always taken seriously. Allergic to peanuts, or dislike pineapple? Prepare to be bombarded with it in every form until you do! Asian parents never accepts No. May be that’s why we always say yes. (too dark).

Milk comes from various animals like cows, sheep, goats, camels, buffalo, and even donkeys. There are also plant-based options like soy, almond, oat, rice, coconut, hemp, pea, and cashew milk. For vegans and lactose-intolerant people, these alternatives are often fortified with nutrients to match the benefits of traditional milk. In the end, whether it’s cow’s milk, almond milk, or any other variety, there’s a type of milk out there to suit everyone’s lifestyle and health needs. So, here’s to milk in all its forms.

Cheers if your guts says yes!

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Sunandhini R

Kannagi Movie : Understanding Complexities!

The movie “Kannagi” explores the phases of a woman’s life, her experiences with marriage, relationships, and societal expectations.

3–4 minutes

As I was scrolling through Twitter, I came across an intriguing tweet: “If a woman is rich, smart, and independent, but still single, what could be the problem?” There were countless responses, suggesting reasons like having a bad attitude, being too masculine, toxic, or too loud. I couldn’t figure out what the real reason might be. Then, the movie Kannagi came to mind. Because, many couldn’t understand the third character that movie.

When I watched “Kannagi,” I had mixed feelings. I couldn’t relate to all the characters, yet the movie left an impact. I searched for reviews from different writers but didn’t find much. So, I thought I’d share my thoughts.

For context, I don’t identify as a feminist rn. I listen to Scott Galloway sometimes (never AT, IYKYK). This movie offered a different perspective on women’s behavior.

The movie revolves around four different types of women. One is waiting to get married, another is going through a divorce, the third is in a live-in relationship, and the last has had an abortion. These four characters represent different phases of the female protagonist’s life, who ends up writing a book.

In the first phase, she wants to get married, but her mother finds reasons to reject every suitor. The movie shows her suffering through each meeting. After her father’s death, she ends up with someone because of societal pressure, so she obeys her mother and gets married.

In the second phase, she believes marriage is the answer to everything. She thinks it will help her fit into society. When her husband files for divorce, she refuses to agree because of her beliefs. She eventually gets frustrated and leaves the marriage, without her parents’ support.

As time passes, she falls in love with her lawyer who helped during the divorce. Things seems fine between them. They plan to marry, but he isn’t ready and gives her false hope. This shatters her faith in marriage.

In the third phase, the repeated failures make her develop an attitude that some might piss off people. She no longer wants to marry because of her past trauma. Her views of marriage changes from protection to something which bring out only problems. When she meets a caring guy and asks for marriage, her past experiences bring out her worst fears. She pushes him away in an unpleasant manner.

It would be really hard to view these scenes from the female lead’s perspective. The focus tends to be on the guy who got rejected. He did nothing wrong. He was simply caring for her and loving her. This is where her trauma is both exposed yet hidden within the scenes.

In the final phase, she gets pregnant from a past relationship and doesn’t know how to handle it. She reaches out to a man she once considered marrying. He helps her get an abortion. They are both at low points in their lives. He is struggling to get a movie produced, and she doesn’t want the baby. The movie beautifully portrays their pain. They understand each other and decide to stay together. I’m not sure why they have decided to stay together – maybe because of the baby, his first love, or acceptance of who she is. Not sure!

The movie highlights how life’s incidents shape her decisions. It shows how life events shape our choices, Perhaps it could have emphasized mental health more, and I wish there had been more focus on healing from the trauma. Kannagi shows the complexities of relationships and the impact of societal expectations on women’s lives.

Cheers

PS: Broken? I replied.

Check out similar posts: Movie reviews (Hotspot , Badgirl)

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turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R

Know your Audience!

The key to successful writing lies in understanding and catering to our audience while staying true to our passions. By blending our interests with audience preferences and pushing our creative boundaries, we can attract dedicated readers while maintaining our unique voice and perspective. Cheers! Happy writing!

A few months ago, we were taking a course on email marketing, and there was a segment on knowing our audience. It seemed relevant and essential to learn, but we left the room as soon as the chapter ended.

Yesterday, I encountered a reader who mentioned that he didn’t understand the Schism and how it ended. Interestingly, we still got a few likes on that piece. It got me thinking. Some parts of our work might resonate with our readers, and some might not. Let me share what we’ve grasped or understood about finding that balance.

We are often told that we need to find the right audience. This is solid advice. We want people to read and connect with our work. We need to understand who we’re writing for. But taking it too far can also backfire on us. Going solely for mass appeal or trends can reduce our originality and expressiveness. So, what can we do?

Understanding the audience means recognizing who we are writing for. It’s not just about age, gender, or location; it’s about their interests, struggles, and desires. When we know our audience, we can tailor our content to meet their needs, speak their language, and touch their hearts. It’s not about selling out or becoming a mindless crowd-pleaser. It’s about understanding who we’re writing for and using that knowledge to craft content that resonates deeply.

Imagine we’re at a party, discussing agriculture or books for recommendations. Nothing works, right? In the same way, we customize our writing style and topics for a specific audience. This can increase the chances of finding people who genuinely connect with our work.

While it’s crucial to understand and write for the audience, it’s equally important to maintain our own interests and passions. Finding a balance between meeting our audience’s needs and staying true to our interests is key. It’s hard, but it’s possible.

Write What We Love

Our passion for a topic shines through in our writing and captivates our readers. If we love what we write, our audience will feel that energy and be more engaged. Draw from our own life. The mundane details, the everyday interactions—these can make our writing relatable and real. Readers find comfort in stories that reflect their own lives.

You don’t write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say. — F. Scott Fitzgerald

Blend Interests

Combine our interests with our audience’s preferences. It’s about finding our spot, the intersection between our interests and what our ideal readers crave.

Here’s the good news! There’s a whole world of readers out there with different tastes and interests. We don’t have to be everything to everyone. By understanding our strengths and what truly excites us as writers, we can attract a dedicated audience that appreciates our individuality.

Write what disturbs you, what you fear, what you have not been willing to speak about. Be willing to be split open. — Natalie Goldberg.

Push ourselves a little extra

Writing is hard work. It takes dedication, practice, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zone. Pushing ourselves a little extra doesn’t mean we have to overhaul our entire process; it means making small, consistent efforts to improve. We can study readers’ reactions through feedback, engagement, and metrics.

There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed. — Ernest Hemingway

Try New Things

Experiment with different genres, styles, or perspectives. If we usually write fiction, try a non-fiction piece. If we love poetry, try our hand at a short story. Pushing our boundaries helps us grow as writers and can reveal hidden talents.

You fail only if you stop writing. — Ray Bradbury

Be a Trendsetter

Aim to be original and innovative, to surprise and delight. Give readers something they’ve never quite experienced while making it accessible and relevant to them.

Don’t bend; don’t water it down; don’t try to make it logical; don’t edit your own soul according to the fashion. Rather, follow your most intense obsessions mercilessly. — Franz Kafka

Edit Relentlessly

The first draft is just the beginning. Editing is where our story really takes shape. Don’t be afraid to cut out parts that don’t work, even if we love them. A lean, well-edited piece is far more compelling than a bloated one.

The best writing is rewriting. — E.B. White

Seek Constructive Criticism

Honest feedback from fellow writers can provide new insights and help us improve. Remember, critique is not personal; it’s a tool to make our writing better.

The Power of Being Ordinary

It’s easy to get caught up in trying to be the next best thing. But remember, there’s beauty in the ordinary. Our unique perspective, our everyday experiences—these are what make our writing special. Embrace our ordinariness and use it to connect with our readers.

To gain your own voice, you have to forget about having it heard. — Allen Ginsberg

By knowing our audience and pushing ourselves creatively, we’ll carve our own niche and attract a dedicated tribe of readers who connect with our unique voice and perspective.

Celebrate the small steps, and never stop pushing our boundaries. In doing so, we’ll not only find our audience but also discover the extraordinary writer within us.

Cheers!

Happy writing!

Thank you for reading ♡!

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Sunandhini R

#DecodeAgri03: Why Bees Matter?

Bees are vital pollinators for food and ecosystems, but face climate-related challenges. Sustainable practices and awareness are crucial for conservation.

6–9 minutes

Here, we don’t eat pan cakes. We have Dosa. The reason I bring this up is that pan cakes aren’t consumed as much as maple syrup. Instead, we have honey. Mostly used in tea, yogurt, fruits, and certain dishes, even with dosa you can have. Its good, especially when you are out of all sambhar, chutneys, and poddiies.

I wanted to write about bees long ago, but certain new topics were distracting me. Distraction is the new common. I agree! I had some connection with honey bees. Maybe it was because we had apiculture as an option during my undergraduate studies. I was not a part of it, but I was a keen observer. Let’s talk about them.

Bees are key pollinators. They travel from flower to flower, transferring pollen and collecting nectar. This also allows the plants to produce fruits and seeds. Approximately 75% of the crops we consume depend on pollination, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Imagine a world without apples, almonds, avocados, mangoes, and others. Our diets would be far less colorful, diverse, and nutritious. Bumble bees and honey bees are the key people here.

But these bees’ influence goes beyond food crops. They also pollinate wild plants, which play critical roles in natural ecosystems. These plants provide food and habitat for other wildlife, help maintain soil health, and contribute to the water cycle.

The majority of the bees live in solitude. Can you imagine? Those are called solitary bees. Sweet bees, bumble bees, and honey bees live in colonies with a queen bee, a worker bee, and a drone.

Solitary bees, unlike them, do not live in colonies. Each female solitary bee is a queen in her own right, building and provisioning her own nest. There are over 20,000 species of solitary bees, including mason bees, leafcutter bees, and carpenter bees. Despite their solitary nature, they play a crucial role in pollination. It’s interesting, isn’t it?

Bees usually visit flowers that are brightly colored, aromatic, open during the day, and full of nectar. When visiting the flowers to collect the nectar, there is a specialized structure called a pollen basket (corbicula), which is nothing but a concave depression fringed with stiff hairs. So when they land, the pollen grains stick to their bodies. Surprisingly, solitary bees have scopa and not pollen baskets. They often focus on specific plants and ensure thorough pollination. This efficiency makes them crucial for both agricultural crops and wild plants.

Climate Change

#Rising Temperature

Climate change has led to increased global temperatures, which disrupts the natural life cycles of both honey bees and solitary bees. According to research published in Science, warmer temperatures cause them to emerge from their hives earlier. Before even the flowers could bloom. Early spring. This incorrect timing means bees cannot find enough food to sustain themselves, leading to weakened colonies or even colony collapse.

#Weather Patterns

Obviously, we can see them very clearly. Its too hot, cyclone, delayed moonsoon, or flood. Unpredictable weather can destroy flowers and disrupt blooming periods, depriving bees of their food sources. Imagine waking up for breakfast to find your groceries empty. I know it’s not exactly a great start to the day. For bees, this can mean starvation and reduced reproductive success.

#Flowering Patterns

Some species are blooming earlier, while others are blooming later. This creates a mismatch between the availability of flowers and the bees’ foraging periods. A study in the Journal of Applied Ecology found that such mismatches can reduce the effectiveness of pollination, impacting plant reproduction and, subsequently, the entire food web.

Honey bee sucking nectar in a flower with a pollen basket

#Pest and Disease

Warmer temperatures and changing climates are also conducive to the spread of diseases and parasites that affect honey bees and solitary bees. With the rise in the use of pesticides, it leads to pesticide poisoning. Reduction in the yield of cross pollinated crops, contamination of bee crops, and many more.

Consequences

#Habitat losses

Habitat loss through phenomena such as forest fires, droughts, and shifting vegetation zones. As habitats change, bees may struggle to find suitable nesting sites and food sources. Urbanization and agricultural expansion, etc. It also impacts natural habitats, leaving bees with fewer places to thrive. This creates a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem, leading to reduced biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. The loss of species can have unforeseen consequences, disrupting ecological balance and the services ecosystems provide.

#Crop Yield and Food Security

As bee populations decline, so does their pollination service, which directly impacts crop yields. A study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B highlighted that reduced pollination could lead to significant decreases in the production of key crops. This threatens food security and increases the risk of malnutrition, particularly in regions that rely heavily on pollinated crops.

#Economic loss

The decline in bee populations also has economic implications. The global economic value of pollination services provided by bees is estimated to be billions of dollars annually. A reduction in these services means increased costs for farmers, who may need to invest in alternative pollination methods, such as hand-pollination or mechanical pollinators. This can drive up food prices, affecting consumers worldwide. There are also findings from People and Nature that suggest developed nations should invest more in the coverage of pollinators.

What we can do ?

#Sustainable agriculture

One of the most effective ways to support bees is by promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This includes reducing the use of pesticides and herbicides, which can harm bees, and encouraging organic farming methods. Also intergate other farming systems. This can have more diverse plant species and flowering times, providing bees with a more consistent food supply.

#Creating Bee-Friendly Habitats

We and our communities can contribute by creating bee-friendly habitats. Planting a variety of flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year. So that it provides bees with continuous food sources. Gardens, parks, and even urban spaces can be transformed into bee havens.

#Conservation Efforts

Beekeeping initiatives and conservation programs are essential for protecting bee populations. Supporting local beekeepers by purchasing their products. There is a local farmer who is popular on IG and sells pure honey. I forgot the name, will update later. Buy from authentic sources because you might get fooled by sugar syrup as well.

#Raising Awareness

This is crucial. By informing others about the importance of bees and the threats they face, we can build a collective effort to protect them. Schools, community groups, and social media platforms can all play a role in spreading the buzz about bees. By now, you are aware of the importance of bees, let the people also know. Kindly share it to spread awareness.

Through sustainable practices, habitat creation, and conservation efforts, we can help bees continue their essential work. Even small actions can have a big impact. By working together to protect our bee friends, we’re not just saving honey production. We’re safeguarding the very foundation of our food system. Let’s ensure that future generations can enjoy the sweet benefits of bees without the bitter sting of climate change.

Cheers!

PS: Bees day’s on May 20th.

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Reference

Goulson, D., Nicholls, E., Botías, C., & Rotheray, E. L. (2015). Bee declines driven by combined stress from parasites, pesticides, and lack of flowers. Science, 347(6229), 1255957. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1255957
Kerr, J. T., Pindar, A., Galpern, P., Packer, L., Potts, S. G., Roberts, S. M., … & Colla, S. R. (2015). Climate change impacts on bumblebees converge across continents. Science, 349(6244), 177-180. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aaa7031
Murphy, J. T., Breeze, T. D., Willcox, B., Kavanagh, S., & Stout, J. C. (2022). Globalisation and pollinators: Pollinator declines are an economic threat to global food systems. People and Nature, 4(3), 773-785. https://doi.org/10.1002/pan3.10235
Potts, S. G., Biesmeijer, J. C., Kremen, C., Neumann, P., Schweiger, O., & Kunin, W. E. (2010). Global pollinator declines: Trends, impacts and drivers. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 25(6), 345-353. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2010.01.007
Rader, R., Bartomeus, I., Garibaldi, L. A., Garratt, M. P. D., Howlett, B. G., Winfree, R., … & Woyciechowski, M. (2016). Non-bee insects are important contributors to global crop pollination. Science, 351(6274), 1369-1372. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aad3261
Vanbergen, A. J., & the Insect Pollinators Initiative. (2013). Threats to an ecosystem service: Pressures on pollinators. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 11(5), 251-259. https://doi.org/10.1890/120126

turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R

Climate Crisis: Seagrass and Dugong Survival!

Dugongs, or sea cows, play a vital role in their habitats and are at risk due to climate change and human activities. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these gentle marine mammals and their seagrass ecosystems.

4–6 minutes

Have you heard of the domino effect? It’s a series of events where each event triggers the next, creating a cascading impact. This morning, I read a story on social media about the structure, or “doll,” of a dugong. Curious, I discovered that a dugong is a sea cow, celebrated today for its ecological importance. Questions arose: What exactly is a dugong? Is it a mammal? How is it related to elephants? What does it eat? Why is it endangered? And how does climate change affect it? Let’s explore.

#What is a dugong?

Dugongs, often called sea cows. They are marine mammals that play an important role in maintaining the health of their habitats. They roam around the shallow coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans for millions of years. Unfortunately, climate change poses significant threats to their survival. Dugongs are classified as vulnerable, meaning they are at high risk of facing extinction.

A real dugong swimming in clear blue waters

#Why is it called a sea cow?

Dugongs are called sea cows because, like cows, they graze on plants—in this case, seagrass. Using their bristly lips, they uproot and eat seagrass, resembling cows grazing in a field. A mature dugong can reach 3 meters in length and weigh up to 400 kg, making them one of the largest marine herbivores. An interesting fact is that early explorers saw these grazing giants, and, well, they looked like cows in the sea. This catchy nickname stuck, with “sea cow” and the French “vache marine.”

#History and Evolution

Dugongs have a rich history, with fossil records showing they’ve inhabited our oceans for over 40 million years. They evolved from terrestrial, plant-eating mammals, adapting to a semi-aquatic lifestyle over time. Dugongs belong to the order Sirenia, which also includes manatees. They share a common ancestor with elephants. Unlike whales, which evolved from terrestrial carnivores, dugongs and other sirenians evolved from herbivorous ancestors.

#Relationship to Elephants

Dugongs and elephants have a common ancestor. They share similarities in their tooth structures and skeletal systems. Both have a streamlined body adapted for their respective environments—coastal waters for dugongs and land for elephants. This close evolutionary relationship is fascinating and highlights the unique adaptations each species has developed over millions of years

#Habitat and Distribution

The Indo-West Pacific region’s warm coastal waters are home to dugongs. They are mostly found in Australia’s shallow waters, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Queensland coast. They feed mainly on seagrass. It is abundant in sheltered bays, mangrove channels, and the waters surrounding islands.

#Adaptations and physical characteristics

Since they eat plants, you might wonder if they might be ruminants. No, they have a simple digestive system. They have a single-chambered stomach and a long, coiled intestine. Their digestive process relies on the fermentation of plant material by gut microbes. Similar to horses and other hindgut fermenters.

They breathe through nostrils located on the top of their snout. This allows them to surface and take breaths without exposing their entire body. They can hold it up for 6 minutes. They have efficient respiratory systems and a high tolerance for low oxygen levels. This allows them to remain submerged for extended periods while feeding on seagrass beds.

#Diet and ecological role.

Dugongs feed almost exclusively on seagrass, making them an essential component of their ecosystem. Seagrass isn’t a grassy weed; it’s a flowering plant. It supports a wide range of marine life. By grazing on these plants, dugongs help maintain the health of seagrass meadows, which in turn support fish, crustaceans, and other marine species.

A lush seagrass meadow teeming with fish.

#Seagrass and climate change

Seagrass meadows are critical not only for dugongs but also for combating climate change. They are not grasses instead a flowering plant. These underwater plants sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide, acting as carbon sinks. Unlike land plants that release carbon upon decomposition, seagrass meadows create oxygen-poor environments where decomposers struggle.

This slow breakdown allows dead seagrass and captured carbon to be buried beneath sediment layers, locking away carbon for years. Seagrass ecosystems can sequester carbon at a rate up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests, making them vital for both climate regulation and ecosystem health.

However, human activities and the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures, ocean acidification, and coastal development, threaten seagrass meadows. Consequently, dugongs face the dual threat of habitat loss and reduced food availability.

#Conservation Efforts and Organizations

Numerous organizations are working to protect dugongs and their habitats. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) lists dugongs to prevent their trade. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) also run various initiatives to conserve dugong populations and their seagrass habitats.

These initiatives include establishing protected marine areas, researching seagrass restoration techniques, and raising public awareness. Every year, on May 28th, we celebrate International Dugong Day to highlight these efforts and the importance of protecting these gentle sea cows.

In a nutshell, our actions on land ripple through the ocean, causing a chain reaction that threatens dugongs. Coastal development, pollution, and climate change are pushing these gentle giants toward extinction. To break this cycle and protect dugongs, we need to be more mindful of our environmental impact and work together to preserve their underwater homes. Saving the dugongs means taking better care of our planet, benefiting us all.

Cheers!

PS: World Dugong day!

Thank you for reading ♡!

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turtles all the way down!

Sunandhini R