globalbriefs News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that benefits all.
Smart Solar
Japan Floats New Nuclear Alternative Two companies in Japan will begin building two huge new solar power islands that will float on reservoirs, following the inception of the Kagoshima floating solar plant as the country’s largest, which opened in late 2013 just off the country’s southern coast. The new direction comes as Japan looks to move on from the Fukushima atomic disaster of 2011 and meet the energy needs of its 127 million people without relying on nuclear power. Before the incident, about 30 percent of the country’s power was generated by nuclear plants, but Fukushima destroyed public confidence, and with earthquakes highly likely in regions containing reactors, Japan is looking for alternatives. Solar islands could also be a solution for other countries where space or nuclear concerns are an issue. It’s possible that one day a significant portion of Europe’s power could come from use of the technology; experts believe the engineering challenges can be surmounted. Source: DailyGalaxy.com
Om-Based Care
Holistic Healers Reach Out to the Underserved An annual report issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that up to 33 percent of uninsured people are avoiding needed treatment for economic reasons. Lifestyle changes and natural remedies like yoga and massage therapy can be highly effective when treating conditions such as high blood pressure, depression or aching joints, and groups nationwide are making these modalities more affordable for everyone. At California’s Healing Clinic Collective (HealingClinicCollective. Wordpress.com), in Oakland, women receive a day of free holistic health care—from acupuncture to massage therapy and nutritional counseling— and discounted rates for follow-up appointments. The Third Root Community Health Center (ThirdRoot.org), in Brooklyn, helps arrange for acupuncturists, herbalists, Reiki practitioners and others to treat low-income people in New York City, especially community organizers and activists that are often overworked and lack the resources for these types of care. The Samarya Center (Samarya Center.org), in Seattle, Washington, uses revenue from its yoga studio to provide free yoga to critically ill patients served by the city’s Bailey-Boushay House and the local VA hospital, and also to patients with chronic pain at the Pike Place Medical Clinic, which treats many homeless and lowincome Seattle residents. Source: YES! magazine
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