Green bits

Vegans are destroying the Amazon.  Due to expanded soy planting, deforestation has increased.  I mentioned this tidbit in mixed company and some guy I don't know at all told me that China is the biggest consumer of soy.  I don't know that they are the biggest importer of soy, but whatever, vegans are destroying America.  I'm pretty sure I heard so on the Colbert Report.

The USDA is a government agency responsible for reporting pesticide data, but it is not on schedule to release the latest study.  In addition to asking for the information usually released in January, a request has been made for "documents about communications it has had with the pesticide industry."  Hmmm.

Globally, a third of food produced for human consumption is wasted.  After explaining why less visually appealing produce is thrown away, a suggestion is made to display less.  I think I like it, but it could be hard to implement.

To improve bedroom health: Add a pure wool or natural rubber topper to your mattress. Also, encase your mattress and pillows in organic cotton barrier cloths or zippered encasings to protect your lungs from dust mite allergens. Choose pillows made with untreated cotton, organic cotton (better), buckwheat hulls (great neck support), wool (best at moisture wicking), or natural rubber (97% natural latex). Avoid down comforters (and pillows) because they draw moisture in but don’t dry out quickly and can produce mold. They also attract dust mites. Instead, select a wool comforter for warmth and superior moisture-wicking properties. It’s also very lightweight. (Isn't wool warm? Or is that a myth?)

Vinegar can be used for removing hard water stains as well as killing or deterring ants in the home. For bugs in houseplants: Mix 3 tablespoons of natural liquid detergent into a gallon of water. Pour into a spray bottle and use on your plants once a week as necessary.  Can someone tell me what to put in the live plants throughout our office building to get rid of those friggin black gnats?  The. gnats. are. so. annoying.  Everyone in the office looks crazy swatting at the air.