Blog
Jadeite: The Ultra-Rare Earth Mineral Worth More Than Diamonds
Jadeite is one of the rarest and most valuable minerals on the planet—worth more than diamonds in top grades. Revered in Chinese culture and prized at global auctions, Imperial jadeite has sold for up to $3 million per carat. Learn how to evaluate, buy, and respect this ancient gem through expert tips, Indigenous wisdom, and an easy guide to its incredible story and enduring value.
China Tightens Control Over Rare Metals Critical to Global Tech Supply Chains
China’s rare earth export crackdown in 2025 has slashed shipments by 75%, putting the squeeze on global tech. From electric vehicles to military systems, industries are feeling the crunch as prices spike and supplies dwindle. The U.S. and allies are racing to diversify sources and build sustainable alternatives. This global shake-up is more than just economic—it’s a reminder that our future depends on how we treat and manage the planet’s most critical resources.
Taxpayers on the Hook for $57 Million Over Massive FM Diversion Project Dispute
A $57 million settlement in the Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Project resolves major disputes over delays, materials, and design changes. Funded from contingency reserves, the payout keeps the $3.2 billion project on track for 2026 completion. Although no new taxes are planned, concerns remain over transparency and future budget impacts. This milestone is a wake-up call on how mega-projects must balance speed, legality, cultural respect, and fiscal discipline to succeed.
$10 Million Torrid Discount Settlement Lets Shoppers Claim Cash Back
Torrid has agreed to a $10 million class-action settlement over misleading online discounts. Shoppers in California, Oregon, and Washington who purchased from Torrid.com between Jan 1, 2020, and Feb 18, 2025, can claim $15 cash or store credit without proof of purchase. The claim deadline is August 26, 2025, and final approval is expected by September 19, 2025.
Diver Spots Giant Sea Turtle Trapped on Ocean Floor and Rushes to Help
When diver Mike Papish came across a giant sea turtle lying motionless on the ocean floor, he didn’t hesitate. His swift, compassionate response helped bring attention to a growing marine crisis. Sea turtles face dangers from ghost nets, pollution, and habitat loss—but simple actions from people like you can help turn the tide. This article offers facts, tips, and hope for anyone who loves the sea and its creatures—and wants to be a part of the solution.
Kabul Could Become the First Major City to Run Out of Water by 2030
Kabul stands on the edge of disaster: its aquifers have dropped 30 meters, snowpacks are shrinking, and over 80% of water sources are unsafe. With 7 million lives at risk, the city may be the first major capital to run dry by 2030. But solutions exist. Combining science, Indigenous wisdom, community engagement, and international action, this article outlines what must be done—before Kabul’s water crisis becomes the world's next tragedy.
Antarctica’s Sea Ice Is Melting Faster Than Ever, Alarming Experts
Antarctica’s sea ice is melting faster than ever, hitting near-record lows in 2025. Driven by warmer oceans, saltier currents, and stronger winds, this rapid loss threatens penguins, raises sea levels, and disrupts global climate patterns. Experts call it a warning bell for Earth’s future. With Indigenous wisdom, science, and action, we still have time to protect the planet. But the clock is ticking—and the ice is speaking.
Earth Is Farthest From the Sun Right Now—So Why Is It So Hot?
Earth hits aphelion (farthest point from the Sun) around July 5—yet summer is heating up. That’s because our planet’s 23.5° tilt, not distance, drives seasonal warmth. Tilt brings long days and direct sunlight, generating more heat than any slight drop in solar intensity due to distance. Summer extremes are shaped by direct rays, land heating, and climate changes—not how far we are from the Sun.
Galápagos Tomatoes Are Evolving in Reverse and Scientists Are Baffled
Wild Galápagos tomatoes (Solanum cheesmaniae and S. galapagense) on younger western islands have reverted to ancestral toxic alkaloid production through just four amino acid changes. This real-time reverse evolution challenges traditional evolutionary theory and offers a powerful blueprint for pest-resistant plant design. It teaches that evolution isn’t a one-way street—it’s fluid, adaptive, and circular—just like the cycles of nature.
Mysterious Object Is Speeding Toward Our Solar System and No One Knows What It Is
Astronomers have confirmed 3I/ATLAS, only the third interstellar object spotted in our solar system, speeding through at ~37 mi/s. With an estimated size of 10–12 km and the possibility of a comet-like coma, ATLAS offers a rare scientific opportunity. Visible through backyard telescopes between July and September, and again post-perihelion in December, it provides insights into distant planetary systems and engages global citizen scientists. Read on to learn how you can join the cosmic observation journey.
