Environment Archives

Japan’s Forests On The Brink: How ‘Connecting Forests’ Could Be A Lifeline

7 March 2025Quinn Lucas

Japan’s forests cover over 67% of the country, but neglected sugi and hinoki plantations cause widespread pollen allergies and environmental risks. Post-WWII policies led to extensive planting of these trees, now accounting for nearly 40% of Japan’s wooded regions, yet many face decline due to economic and labor challenges. The “Connecting Forests” initiative, championed by […]

Forest Inferno Rages On in Nagano: A Community Holds Its Breath

2 March 2025Quinn Farrow

A devastating forest fire engulfs Ueda, Nagano, drawing widespread attention. Despite intense firefighting efforts, the blaze remains uncontrolled, with helicopters and ground teams battling relentlessly. The fire threatens the landscape and homes, prompting authorities to emphasize vigilance and evacuation preparedness. Environmental concerns arise regarding the long-term impact on the ecosystem. The community responds with solidarity, […]

A realistic, high-resolution image that symbolizes the concept of rethinking growth in favor of a more sustainable future. This could be represented by an image of a lush, thriving forest subtly transitioning into a bustling cityscape. In the foreground, an elder and a young child of Hispanic extract are seen studying a sprouting seedling. Behind them, a wind farm and a solar power plant are powering the city, indicating a shift towards renewable energy sources.

Why We Must Rethink Growth and Embrace a More Sustainable Future

15 February 2025Jasmine Freer

Dominique Méda’s essay “Une société désirable” highlights a shift from economic growth towards interdependence and sustainability. She envisions a society unshackled from unconstrained capitalism, where work and meaning intertwine. The essay critiques the shift from the post-WWII “Philadelphia consensus” to the 1980s “Washington consensus” favoring market-driven solutions over state intervention. Neoliberalism views the state as […]