environment

environment

Human-Animal Bonds: Taking Care of Our Pets

Human-Animal Bonds: Taking Care of Our Pets

, , , Frances Yates, outreach
According to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), there are 5 major benefits to owning a pet: alleviate stress fight depression reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness encourage physical activity  facilitate healing and resiliency The Covid-19 pandemic and the disruption of businesses and education in 2020-21 forced many people to isolate, either alone or with their immediate household members, contributing to an increase in depression, loneliness, and stress (Robillard et al. 2020). The pandemic also saw a rise in pet adoption as more people were limited to at-home and outdoor activities. (Ho et al. 2021). During these challenging times, people often turned to their pets for comfort and support. Respondents in a HABRI survey specific to the human-animal bond … Continued
Climate Change and Sustainability: Where to Learn More and Engage Locally

Climate Change and Sustainability: Where to Learn More and Engage Locally

, , , Library Resources
Global warming is steadily accelerating, and it is increasingly apparent as this year alone we’ve had deadly flash floods, wildfires, and persistent heatwaves and drought throughout the world. Recently, more than 200 climate scientists met to finalize a report “summarizing how the Earth’s climate has already changed and what humans can expect for the rest of the century” (Hersher, 2021). This report, released August 9, 2021, is the 6th edition. Climate science research has progressed significantly since the last report came out in 2013 and this new report is the most detailed and accurate picture of the global climate to date, as the computer models and the data scientists use to predict future climate patterns has advanced. A major goal … Continued
Sustainable Summer Idea: Be Plastic Free

Sustainable Summer Idea: Be Plastic Free

, , outreach, Programs
Actions of sustainability can be accomplished every day. Throughout the month of July we can “Choose to refuse” single-use plastic. Plastic Free July is a global campaign that aims for people to reduce or eliminate single-use plastic waste. Plastic is a material that can last for hundreds of years, and with so many household items and packaging made of plastic, plastic pollution is a major threat to our oceans and communities. Single-use plastic is convenient and flexible in its use, and that is why it is so very challenging to eliminate completely. That’s why movements like Plastic Free July are important. Plastic Free July provides resources and tips to help you go plastic free. You can start small, reduce your … Continued
Earth Week every week

Earth Week every week

, Jesse Whitton, Library Resources
Started in 1970, every year on April 22, more than 190 countries come together to celebrate Earth Day. This global event draws attention to the devastating effects humans are causing to the planet and how we can take a stand to heal our planet. For actions you can do to help save the planet, see EarthDay.org Action. Children can be a part of the change to save the planet. Ever wonder what happens with your trash? Interested in growing your vegetables or creating a compost pile? Want to become a Beekeeper or an Ecologist like Rachel Carson who studied the contamination and the effects on the planet? Find books and more on these topics in the IU East Family R.E.A.D. … Continued
Flying near and far: Birds in your backyard and beyond

Flying near and far: Birds in your backyard and beyond

, , , Frances Yates, Library Resources, outreach
Whether you want to enjoy bird activities locally or online, identity birds and their songs from around the world, or take actions to help birds, check out these ornithological opportunities. In addition to local parks and your neighborhood, the Whitewater Memorial State Park in Liberty is designated by the National Audubon Society as an “important bird area” that supports “one of the most significant assemblages of migrant and nesting avian species in eastern Indiana,” including waterfowl, a diversity of neotropical passerines, and endangered raptors. At the Hayes Arboretum in Richmond, you can use the Bird Watching Room or several different trails to see a variety of birds. Options include exploring independently, participating in a variety of nature activities, including the … Continued