SPACE, NOT SPIKES: Curtain Road

A group of individuals transformed anti-homeless spikes into a sleeping and seating area with a library on Curtain Road, London. The initiative aims to provide a welcoming space for the homeless and includes a collection of books on urban development, social issues, and class culture. The project encourages people to read and relax while leaving the books for others to enjoy.

Don’t cry over spilt milk, make loo roll out of it

Qmilk, a German fabric innovator, has partnered with Italian company Lucart to produce a premium toilet roll made from waste milk, named Carezza di Latte, set to be available in Italian supermarkets. The product is hypoallergenic and suitable for people with allergies, including lactose intolerance. Qmilk's founder, Anke Domaske, developed the technology to create fibres from soured milk protein, repurposing waste milk that cannot be sold, such as from sick cows or those treated with antibiotics. Qmilk uses 1,000 tonnes of waste milk annually from local farms and pays farmers for this otherwise discarded product. While the initiative is seen as a positive step in waste management, Andrew Walters of PDR's Ecodesign Group cautions that increased demand could potentially lead to more milk production directed towards non-food uses, which may not be environmentally beneficial compared to well-managed forests.

Drug dealers using Instagram and Tinder to find young customers

Drug dealers are exploiting social media platforms and apps like Instagram, Tinder, Kik, and Depop to sell drugs to young people. They use hashtagging on Instagram and profile swiping on Tinder to connect with potential customers, who can then purchase drugs online using encrypted or traceable payment methods. Despite the risks involved, the internet is popular among teens without drug connections. Some young people in the LGBTQ community also purchase hormones online for gender transitioning. Social media platforms and law enforcement rely on user reporting to combat this issue, but the challenge remains significant. The National Police Chiefs’ Council acknowledges the need to adapt to the digital drug trade, and the UK government is working with internet providers to address the unlawful sale of drugs online.

These anti-homeless spikes are brutal. We need to get rid of them

The article criticizes the use of anti-homeless spikes and defensive architecture in urban spaces, arguing that such measures are inhumane and exacerbate social inequality. The author, Leah Borromeo, describes efforts by a collective of artists, journalists, and academics to neutralize these structures and promote a more inclusive urban environment. The piece calls for collaboration with local councils and developers to address homelessness and create friendlier public spaces.

Seven days (almost) living off-grid in London

An individual attempts to live off-grid in London for a week, exploring sustainable living by forgoing modern conveniences such as electricity and gas. The experience includes using a hobo stove and storm kettle for cooking, urban foraging, fermenting foods, and learning from experts like Cath Prisk and Jonathan Rouse. The experiment highlights the feasibility of low-impact living, the importance of community, and the potential for self-sufficiency in an urban environment.

The rubber in your rubbers: the condom company making sexy time sustainable

A group of German entrepreneurs has launched Einhorn, a company focused on creating fair and sustainable condoms. The brand, which features unicorn-themed packaging, quickly met its crowdfunding goal. Co-founder Waldemar Zeiler emphasizes their commitment to transparency and sustainability, aiming for an 80-90% sustainable product within five years. Einhorn's business model includes open-source information and a pledge for entrepreneurs to support social causes. The company targets the 25-35 age group and aims to make sustainable products appealing and competitive. The article highlights the potential for applying Einhorn's model to other products and industries.

Berlin duo launch a supermarket with no packaging

Berlin-based supermarket Original Unverpackt, founded by Sara Wolf and Milena Glimbovski, offers a packaging-free shopping experience where customers bring their own containers. This concept addresses the rising demand for sustainable products and services. Similar initiatives include In.Gredients in Austin and Unpackaged in London. The article discusses the broader implications of packaging waste, ethical consumerism, and the challenges faced by such businesses. Despite the progressive nature of unpackaged stores, the article highlights the ongoing exploitation of resources and the need for significant societal changes to achieve true sustainability.