Researchers discover surprising side effect of ban on plastic grocery bags: 'We can judge it very well'
The United Arab Emirates' ban on single-use plastic bags took effect in 2024, and the results are already proving that it has been incredibly effective.
According to The National, the ban has not only helped limit litter and other negative environmental issues associated with single-use plastics, but it has also contributed to a slower decline in camel populations due to reduced plastic consumption.
The National spoke to Dr. Ulrich Wernery, who co-authored a 2021 study on camel deaths correlated with large plastic materials in their stomachs.
"There's a very good reduction in plastic bags in the UAE and we can judge it very well," Dr. Wernery said. "We do not find a lot of camel cases with plastic [bags] in their stomach. [In] the last year we've seen a tremendous, very good reduction by 60 to 80%."
Around the world, single-use product bans, particularly plastic bags, are gaining popularity. In Punjab, plastic bags below a certain thickness have been banned as of 2025. Meanwhile, in the U.S., states like California have a ban on all plastic bags and encourage reusable shopping bags.
Plastic consumption by wildlife is a significant concern, as exemplified by the widespread opposition to plastic straws due to their impact on marine life, including sea turtles. While the decrease in plastic-related camel deaths is a sign the UAE is moving in the right direction, other plastic items still pose a threat to these and other animals.
"Dr. Wernery said that camels eating the plastic ropes used to hold their hay bales remains 'a severe problem,'" The National wrote. The hope is that broader plastic bans will be implemented, not just in the UAE, but everywhere, and plastic-related animal injuries and plastic pollution can be further mitigated.
To do your part, consider switching to plastic-free alternatives for everyday items. This could include ditching single-use water bottles and investing in something reusable or bringing your own to-go containers to restaurants. Every step counts in making a change to reduce plastic in our environment.
Should plastic grocery bags be banned nationwide?
Absolutely
No way
Let each state decide
I'm not sure
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.Solve the daily Crossword
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Times
6 hours ago
- New York Times
William J. Rutter, Biotech Pioneer of Gene-Based Medicine, Dies at 97
William J. Rutter, a scientist who helped create the modern biotechnology industry as a founder of a company that turned breakthroughs from academic labs into commercial medicines, including the first genetically engineered vaccine and a therapy for multiple sclerosis, died on July 11 at his home in San Francisco. He was 97. His daughter, Cindy Rutter, said the cause was complications of urothelial carcinoma, a cancer of the urinary system. In 1981, Dr. Rutter and two University of California colleagues founded the Chiron Corporation in Emeryville, Calif. Along with the South San Francisco start-up Genentech, it established the Bay Area as the country's biotech capital, a counterpart to the computing boom in Silicon Valley. Chiron specialized in recombinant DNA technology, also known as gene splicing — the technique of snipping a gene from one organism and inserting it into the DNA of another organism. In 1968 Dr. Rutter, a biochemist, was recruited by the University of California, San Francisco, to help transform it into a research powerhouse with funding from the National Institutes of Health. He helped pioneer the science of genetic engineering — a foundation of the biotech industry that set it apart from traditional pharmaceutical development. He started Chiron (pronounced KY-ron) with Pablo D. T. Valenzuela, a fellow biochemist at U.C.S.F., and Edward E. Penhoet, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley; Dr. Rutter was chairman of the board. The company was named for a centaur in Greek mythology known for his skill in the healing arts Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Yahoo
Neurocrine Biosciences Grows Pipeline While Maintaining Steady Investor Confidence
Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:NBIX) is one of the . Following the update on its ongoing clinical study, analysts are maintaining a Buy rating while raising the price target. A healthcare professional discussing treatment options for a patient with a neurological disorder. Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:NBIX) develops therapies targeting neurological, neuroendocrine, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Operating from its headquarters in California, the company gained U.S. approval for valbenazine (Ingrezza®) for tardive dyskinesia and markets treatments for Huntington's chorea, adrenal hyperplasia, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. The company's comprehensive pipeline includes treatments for Parkinson's, Tourette's, and novel agents like NBI‑1117568 in schizophrenia trials. Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:NBIX) announced the termination of its Phase 2 study on NBI-921352, an investigational drug, as of July 14, 2025. The company, with its tests, aimed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of the drug when used alongside other treatments for patients with SCN8A-DEE, a rare and severe neurological disorder. Phase 2 of the study involved assessing the drug's ability to reduce seizure frequency in patients with SCN8A-DEE. As it failed to show a meaningful reduction, the study was terminated. The company's lead candidates continue to be crinecerfont for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and NBI-1117568, a potential treatment for psychosis and cognitive disorders. Later, on July 21, 2025, Truist initiated coverage of the stock with a Buy rating and a price target of $163. On the other hand, Morgan Stanley, while maintaining the Buy rating, has raised the price target from $148 to $150. Despite the trial setback, Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:NBIX) continues to show strong growth prospects with a 33.73% projected EPS increase and a low beta of 0.25. While we acknowledge the potential of NBIX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 Metal Stocks with Insider Buying in 2025 and 10 Energy Stocks with Insider Buying in 2025 Disclosure. None. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Yahoo
7 Superfoods That Boost Brain Health, According to RDs
These everyday foods are nutritionists' favorites for boosting memory, focus, and long-term brain health. What we eat can directly impact how our brain functions. Whether related to cognition and memory, mood, or mental clarity, all can be affected by diet throughout our lifespans. So which foods make the most positive impact on the brain? While nearly all plant foods have their benefits, there are some key types that research shows really boost brain health. And certain seafoods have anti-inflammatory benefits. Bonus: Foods that benefit your brain also benefit other body systems like your heart, digestive function, and blood sugar. Read on to learn about my top food picks with additional insights from brain health nutrition expert and Los Angeles-based registered dietitian Maggie Moon, MS, RD, author of a new book, The MIND Diet: 2nd Edition. Cruciferous Vegetables Cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, and more, contain a phytochemical called sulforaphane which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can be particularly protective of the brain. Sulforophane has been researched for its role in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease, ischemic stroke, and Parkinson's disease. Leafy Green Vegetables Leafy green vegetables are one of the easiest and beneficial foods you can eat for your brain. According to Moon, 'Leafy green vegetables are rich in lutein, an antioxidant that likes to make a beeline for the eye and brain where it protects both from oxidative stress.' Moon also shared that research from the Univesity of Georgia College of Public Health suggests lutein may improve mental flexibility, essential for problem solving. How can you incorporate more leafy greens into your diet? Short-cuts are okay! 'The simplest way I've gotten people to eat more leafy greens is to encourage them to get pre-washed baby greens—they're mild in flavor and always ready. I recommend trying them in soups, salads, smoothies, grains and greens bowls, and omelets,' says Moon. Berries Berries—such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, mulberries, and more—pack a lot of good nutrients for the brain in a small package. They can help fight inflammation, protect cells from damage, and improve communication between neurons. While all berries are concentrated sources of polyphenols, Moon points out that blueberries (and more specifically wild blueberries) are one of the best choices, adding, 'The main type of polyphenol in blueberries are anthocyanins, which are associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline, lower oxidative stress, and improved brain cell survival.' Wild blueberries have significantly more anthocyanins per serving than regular blueberries, though Moon suggests eating a mix of berries as a snack to benefit from the variety of different brain-healthy nutrients. Look for fresh berries when they are in season near you, or head to the freezer aisle where they can be found year-round. Related: The 7 Healthiest Frozen Foods You Can Find at the Supermarket, According to Registered Dietitians Extra Virgin Olive Oil Extra-virgin olive oil, thanks to its healthy fats and plant compounds, can improve brain health (along with heart and gut health) by boosting good gut bacteria and reducing inflammation. In addition to being a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, extra virgin olive oil is packed with polyphenols which can help combat free radicals associated with cognitive impairment. A systematic review found that the consumption of olive oil may enhance cognitive functioning and reduce cognitive decline. Another large study found that people who regularly consumed more than half a tablespoon of olive oil per day had a 28% lower risk of dying from dementia over 28 years, compared with those who never or rarely consume olive oil, suggesting that olive oil may really be a superfood for the brain. Nuts and Seeds According to Moon, 'Nuts and seeds high in plant-based omega-3 ALA like walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are key for brain health because they support brain cell integrity and help fight neuroinflammation.' These are great to have on hand as a staple. Moon is an especially big fan of walnuts because 'in addition to omega-3s, walnuts also offer anti-inflammatory polyphenols, fiber to regulate serotonin, and melatonin to help clear proteins that can clump together and cause brain cell dysfunction.' For optimal storage, keep nuts and seeds in your refrigerator or freezer to avoid the risk of them turning rancid. To up your intake, include them in a smoothie, top off your yogurt or a salad, use them in a snack mix, or blend them into a sauce or dressing. Fatty Fish You've likely heard fatty fish being recommended for heart health, but they are also a key food for brain health. Because the brain and nervous system tissues are made up of fat, some research shows that these tissues benefit a lot from the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) fatty acid found in fatty fish. Several studies have linked lower levels of DHA with increased risk of Alzheimer's Disease and other cognitive problems. Aim for at least 8 ounces of seafood per week and prioritize oily fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, trout, and sardines because of their high DHA content. Related: 8 Foods High in Omega-3s That Are Good for Your Heart, Brain, and Gut Green Tea and Coffee Need another excuse to enjoy your morning brew? Coffee contains more than a thousand bioactive compounds including phytochemicals that have protect your brain. Preliminary research suggests that the polyphenols in coffee, along with the caffeine itself, may improve motor and cognitive performance in aging and protective effects against Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Similarly, green tea (Camellia sinensis) has its own set of polyphenols with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective qualities to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Aim for moderate consumption of coffee and tea (around 2 to 3 cups per day) to reap the most benefits. Read the original article on Real Simple
