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NYU study defines social motivations of urban farms

A new NYU study reveals that three out of four top reasons urban farmers grow crops are driven by social motivations, including food security, education, and community building. The research also finds that many urban farms operate as nonprofits, shifting financial focus from sales to donations and grants.

SourceNew York University·JournalBritish Food Journal·DateFeb 29, 2016

Unlikely element turns up in enzyme; commercial renewable fuels might ultimately result

A team of scientists has identified a novel tungsten-containing enzyme in the bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor bescii, which shows potential for converting plant biomass into useful chemicals and fuels. The discovery could lead to more efficient production of commercial renewable fuels and reduce greenhouse emissions.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateAug 14, 2015

Scientists tackle our addiction to salt and fat by altering foods' pore size, number

Researchers have discovered that manipulating porosity in processed foods can increase the release of salt during chewing, allowing for reduced salt content without sacrificing flavor. By controlling pore size and number, food manufacturers may be able to create lower-sodium alternatives to popular snacks.

Changing global diets is vital to reducing climate change

A new study suggests that changing global diets can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from food production. The study reveals that a shift towards healthier diets, reduced food waste, and sustainable agricultural practices can significantly reduce the environmental impact of food production. By adopting balanced eating habits, includin...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 31, 2014

Agencies often hindered in addressing health concerns from industrial animal production

Researchers found that state regulatory agencies struggle to address public health concerns from industrial food animal production due to narrow regulations, a lack of public health expertise, and limited resources. The study suggests that strengthening regulations and providing complementary expertise can help protect public health.

Marriage's 'haves' and 'have nots'

Research from Northwestern University finds that today's best marriages excel when spouses invest time and energy to meet each other's psychological needs for personal growth. However, the majority of marriages are struggling due to a mismatch between what Americans expect from their marriage and the resources they invest in it.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Inquiry·DateFeb 13, 2014

Existing cropland could feed 4 billion more

Research suggests that reallocating croplands away from fuels and animal feed can boost food availability for people by 70 percent without clearing more land. The study found that growing food exclusively for human consumption could provide enough calories to feed a few billion more people.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 1, 2013

Finding Chicago's food gardens with Google Earth

Researchers at University of Illinois mapped 4,648 urban agriculture sites in Chicago using Google Earth, finding that residential gardens and vacant lot gardens contribute substantially to food production. Backyard gardens, underappreciated and unsupported, also play a crucial role in food security, particularly in areas with limited ...