Issue Nº 503

Friday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• A new way to recycle the hardest plastics

• Sunset of the day in Michigan

• An easy trick to save money on home repairs

• How trees talk to each other underground

• An alternative to alcohol

Did You Know?

Bamboo grows so fast that some species can grow over ___ feet in a single day.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

A New Way to Recycle the Hardest Plastics

Black plastic, like coffee cup lids and food containers, is one of the hardest types to recycle. Many recycling facilities can’t detect black plastic because of the additives used in manufacturing, causing most of it to end up in landfills. But scientists at Cornell and Princeton have found a surprisingly simple way to break it down—using just light.

The research team discovered that black plastic contains a compound called carbon black, which naturally absorbs light and converts it into heat. By grinding the plastic into a fine powder and exposing it to LED light or sunlight, they were able to break it down into reusable building blocks. This method worked on everyday items like food packaging and even plastic contaminated with oil or sauce.

In testing, up to 53% of the material successfully transformed into reusable components. Even better, when exposed to sunlight outdoors, the process became even more efficient. This discovery could make black plastic part of a circular recycling system instead of a waste problem.

While the method isn’t ready for large-scale use yet, it’s a promising step toward making plastic recycling easier and more effective. With continued research, solutions like this could help reduce waste and keep more materials in use—right where they belong.

Sunset of the Day

Today's breathtaking sunset comes from The Canopy reader Wendy, who captured this golden moment over East Bay in Michigan.

The glowing horizon, streaked with soft clouds, reflects beautifully over the rippling water, while the shoreline’s rocky edge adds a peaceful contrast. It's the kind of view that makes you pause and take in the beauty of nature’s quiet magic.

Thank you for sharing this stunning scene, Wendy! Have a sunset that left you in awe? Send it our way—we’d love to feature it!

Don’t Let a Broken Heater Break the Bank

Home-repair costs have surged in recent years due to inflation and supply chain issues, making unexpected breakdowns a financial burden for homeowners.

Fortunately, a home warranty could help cover the repair and replacement of your home appliances and systems for a reasonable monthly fee.

Check out Money’s list of the Best Home Warranties and start protecting your essential appliances.

View List.

Thank you to Money.com for sponsoring The Canopy.

How Trees Talk to Each Other Underground

Trees and plants may not have brains, but scientists are discovering they can sense, adapt, and even communicate in surprising ways. Research suggests that plants respond to their environment, send signals underground, and even recognize their own family members.

One study found that trees in a forest are connected through an underground network of fungi, sometimes called the "wood wide web." When one tree is attacked by pests, it can send nutrients to a healthier neighbor, almost as if it’s passing down knowledge for survival. Other studies show plants can sense competition and adjust their growth accordingly.

This ability to adapt is more than just fascinating—it could help us develop new technologies. Scientists are studying how plant movements could inspire flexible robots for rescue missions or medical procedures. Learning from plants could also help us better understand how to protect forests and grow food in a changing climate.

For centuries, humans have underestimated plants, seeing them as simple and passive. But the more we learn, the clearer it becomes: nature has a lot to teach us, if we’re willing to listen.

Looking For an Alcohol Alternative?

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Thank you to Cornbread Hemp for sponsoring The Canopy.

Quick Picks:

From nature reclaiming abandoned places to playful tiger cubs, check out this week’s top eco-friendly finds:

• 🌱 See Abandoned Places Taken Over by Nature—A stunning look at how the wild reclaims forgotten spaces.

• 🔧 One simple change that can help avoid expensive home repairs

• 🏡 Effortless Tricks for a Sustainable Home—Simple swaps and habits to make your space more eco-friendly.

• 🪩 All the fun, none of the fog—an alcohol-free alternative that lets you wake up feeling your best

• 🐯 Watch Adorable Tiger Cubs at Play—Too cute to miss, these playful moments will brighten your day.

Reflections:

🌎 Did You Know: Bamboo grows so fast that some species can grow over three feet in a single day.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!