# data[].attributes.body
If human beings do not implement better agricultural, political, and environmental practices, the world may start to become unrecognizable in a few decades. The picture below is a real picture of part of the Amazon jungle. This was a result of logging and unchecked agricultural practices, which can be detrimental to biodiversity and the overall environment. Other issues, such as carbon emissions, which escalate climate change, rising sea levels and temperatures, and severe weather events, could not only threaten human life but biodiversity and resources as well. These issues combined with problems like land overuse, overgrazing, and urbanization can cause problems like desertification. Desertification is a condition where once-fertile areas become increasingly arid. Sadly, this picture could easily be a small glimpse of what a large portion of the world may look like if things do not change.
https://abcnews.go.com/International/threats-food-supply-environment-loom-significant-report/story?id=65640584

# data[].attributes.body
I think one of the relevant plant-based chemicals in use right now is CBD oil. CBD oil is derived from one of the chemicals found in Marijuana plants known as cannabinoids. It is not psychoactive like THC, which in the other chemical that was most associated with Marijuana.  It has been suggested that CBD oil can help with a variety of medical issues such as IBD, inflammation, nerve pain, insomnia, cancer relief, epilepsy, and anxiety. Although, there is no definitive proof that CBD oil is effective in treating many of these issues, there is solid evidence in the treatment of epilepsy. The FDA has even approved it as a treatment for the condition. There have also been some clinical studies suggesting that CBD oil may help treat social anxiety as well. People see CBD oil as a less harmful alternative to the harsh chemicals used in synthetic medications. More studies need to be done about the benefits of CBD oil but it definitely shows a lot of promise. https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/news/20180507/cbd-oil-all-the-rage-but-is-it-safe-effective#

# data[].attributes.body
The third Agricultural Revolution, also known as the Green Revolution, was known for advancements in genetically engineering and modifying crops. Although the groundwork began in the 40s, the groundbreaking innovations that spurred along the movement occurred in the 60s and 70s. In 1970, an American scientist named Norman Borlaug won the Nobel Peace Prize for his advancements in breeding high yielding wheat hybrids. This innovation laid the groundwork in the fight against world hunger. Norman Borlaug is credited as being the father of the Green Revolution. He developed a dwarf wheat hybrid which could withstand the weight of the extra fertilization needed for increased production. His studies and experiments were the catalyst for the Green Revolution. He later served on many prestigious world committees and won the World Food Prize for his efforts in improving the quality and quantity of food globally. Pictured below is Norman Borlaug with his wheat hybrid.
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Norman-Borlaug

# data[].attributes.body
This region of southwest Asia is known as the fertile crescent and is often referred to as “cradle of civilization”. It is called this because it is the area where scientists believe early agricultural originated and became widespread. With this development of agriculture, people were able to stay in one place and make settlements. The fertile crescent is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea on the left and Persian Gulf to the right. This geographical location means that the climate has a long dry season and a short rainy season. This made it ideal for growing wheat, barley, and legumes. The location of the fertile crescent also had varied terrain and altitudes which scientists believe may have been profitable for farmers. The fertile crescent is believed to be the birthplace of human civilization. This formation of complex human societies is just one way the Agricultural Revolution made an impact.  https://courses.lumenlearning.com/culturalanthropology/chapter/neolithic-revolution/

# data[].attributes.body
The Artic Tundra is under the most danger from ecological change. Human interference such as hunting, oil drilling, and development has threatened all wildlife in the Artic Tundra. However, the biggest threat to this biome comes from its sensitivity to climate change. The Artic Tundra has had a few consecutive years of record-breaking temperatures and the sea ice is rapidly melting. This melting sea ice will further escalate the global warming trend. Losing the sea ice could also cause a dramatic change to the amount of vegetation thus affecting all wildlife within the ecosystem. Also, the warming of the Artic Tundra could encourage more human activity in this region which would further endanger this ecosystem. https://www.britannica.com/science/tundra/Effects-of-human-activities-and-climate-change

# data[].attributes.body
Flowering Dogwood
(Cornus florida)

Nothing says “Welcome to Georgia” like the beautiful Dogwood trees which are native to Georgia and the eastern United States. Every spring (except when there is COVID) Atlanta has a festival celebrating the blooming of these trees. Dogwoods are deciduous trees and typically grow to 30ft in height (NASA).  Since they are angiosperms, they bloom in clusters of four white or pale pink flowers. In the fall their leaves turn a reddish-brown and they produce red berries. Dog woods require lots of water and will not survive in cold climates (NASA). They are beautiful trees but can be quite fussy.

https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/biome/seeddogwood.php#:~:text=The%20flowering%20dogwood%20(Cornus%20florida,spring%20it%20has%20red%20berries.

# data[].attributes.body
I really enjoyed this video about photosynthesis. It is geared toward children which is helpful for those of us who might not have a strong background in biology. I thought it gave a great summary about the process of photosynthesis and even covered a couple new topics such as raw sap and elaborated sap. The video touched on the importance of autotrophs in the food chain as well as how they clean the air of toxins. Overall, I enjoyed this video and found it helpful as did my daughter who is currently studying life science in middle school. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPBMG5EYydo

# data[].attributes.body
These are Wild Black Berries. They grow naturally in many parts of GA including my own yard. Wild Black Berries are good for the environment. They provide a home to a variety of insects and some protection for animals like wild rabbits. They are great for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. They are also a source of food for birds and other animals plus they are non-harmful to pets. Wild Black Berries can be eaten by humans and are extremely healthy. The bushes can help give sparse areas of land some coverage which protects against erosion and they make nice property line barriers.