Posts by author
Alanna Mitchell
Be Like Lichen
What if we could learn a lesson or two in survival from one of the Earth’s weirdest organisms? Lichen in our cities present a powerful metaphor for our biologically troubled…
Time for a Sea Change
Not only do marine protected areas safeguard biodiversity, but with nature taking the lead, MPAs boost commercial fisheries and help lock in massive amounts of carbon. HERE’S A THOUGHT EXPERIMENT.…
Undoing Some Damage
We live in a symbolic time. That’s especially true when it comes to wild creatures. It feels like a gut punch to hear about an ancient Douglas fir that falls…
Risking Risks
Consider the number 417. On the surface, it may seem unremarkable. It’s even mathematically rather dull — 3 times 139. Meh. But looked at through the lens of carbon concentrations…
Exploring Otter Space
Sea Otters always seem to be enjoying a great joke. They have big eyes and bigger noses, framed by erect whiskers. They seem to show constant surprise. They’re often spotted…
Fragmented Realities
For four decades, there has been a divisive debate about the lasting effects of disturbing animal habitats. A new study suggests it will make some species more resilient, not less.…
Mapping Our Climatic Future
A new University of Winnipeg report has mapped a future of ever-increasing heat waves… unless we curb carbon emissions MAPS TALK. MODERN ONES DESCRIBE TODAY’S realities. Those from ancient eras…
Uprooted: Plant Blindness Is a Dangerous Phenomenon
In our modern world, we have lost the connection between the foods we eat and the crops that provide them. It is called “plant blindness” and it is a dangerous…
The Boreal Forest: Our Secret Weapon to Fight Climate Change
The boreal forest has occasionally been dubbed “the ugly forest.” The cold, needle-leaved antithesis to the fervid exuberance of tropical rainforests. It has often been ignored, too. Today, however, this…
Ixnay On The Nics, Eh?
Is it time for an official Canadian ban on neonicotinoids for their devastating effect on bugs, birds and humans? Most experts say yes. When neonicotinoid insecticides came into wide-spread use…
