How to Choose Nature-Friendly Lighting

By RISC | 6 days ago

Light isn’t just what we use to see… It also regulates how we and wildlife live our lives each day.The light we see has a wavelength of 400-700 nanometers. But there are also invisible ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays.Sunlight is crucial factor for photosynthesis in plants, the foundation of the food chain. Light is used in technologies including medicine, communications, and transport.Alongside all these benefits, though, excessive or inappropriate light causes "light pollution", an environmental issue that’s often overlooked. This pollution can harm both us and the environment.Unnecessary light such as streetlights, lights from tall buildings, or billboards that shine all through the night can disrupt wildlife’s natural behavior. Creatures lose balance in their lives. Migratory birds fly off course. Sea turtles get disoriented by coastal lights. Many other wild creatures also need the dark to survive.To reduce the impact of light pollution on animals and the environment, we should choose appropriate lighting that won’t disturb the lifecycle and behavior of wildlife.Suitable lighting should have a correlated color temperature (CCT) of no more than 3000 Kelvin (K). The wavelength range should be about 600-700 nanometers, giving a warm white light. Light should have a clear direction, not spreading widely or shining to the sky or where animals live. We can also help reduce light pollution by turning off unnecessary lights. Don’t leave lights on during the night. Use timers to ensure lights are only on when needed. Proper use and management of light can help reduce light pollution and maintain the balance of nature, letting wildlife thrive in its natural habitats.Story by Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC

How Green Spaces Give You a Better Life

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

Did you know that an acre of mature trees can absorb as much carbon dioxide in a year as a car produces in 26,000 miles?Spending time around trees brings you many benefits, from lower stress to higher cognitive abilities. Trees are vital to human well-being. And, as cities continue to grow and develop, trees are becoming even more important…1. Encouraging an Active LifestyleCities with more trees and green spaces encourage people to use public areas and support local businesses. Green spaces boost outdoor activities and exercise, such as strolling in parks or playing outdoor sports. These activities improve public health and build social bonds, fostering community and safety. Well-designed green spaces with walkways and cycling paths encourage people to use vehicles less, improving air quality and alleviating congestion.2. Physical Well-Being and Stress ReductionSpending time in green spaces, such as through forest bathing, helps regulate blood pressure and promotes a sense of calm. Office workers with views of trees report lower stress levels and higher job satisfaction. Trees can also reduce surface temperatures by up to 12°C, helping to mitigate heat-related health issues. Research by Forest Research in the UK has found that visiting forests supports mental well-being and could save the National Health Service (NHS) up to £185 million each year in healthcare costs.3. Enhancing Emotional and Cognitive DevelopmentNature helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, particularly among young people. Just five minutes in a green space can yield mental health benefits. Additionally, exposure to nature stimulates brain regions associated with creativity and problem-solving, improving focus and workplace productivity. Studies on children indicate that playing and learning in green environments enhance cognitive development, memory retention, and analytical thinking. Walking through a park or forest also provides a mental break from daily stressors, leading to greater relaxation and long-term happiness.4. Creating Safer CommunitiesAreas with fewer trees often experience higher rates of crime and violence. Urban greenery can help reduce fear and enhance community safety. Well-maintained green spaces encourage people to spend more time in public areas, fostering natural surveillance that deters crime, such as theft and assault. Additionally, roadside trees significantly improve indoor air quality, reducing nearby pollution levels by more than 50%. Trees also help mitigate noise pollution from traffic and urban activities, contributing to a more peaceful and livable community.Trees clearly play a crucial role in promoting human health and well-being. Beyond improving air and water quality, trees provide habitats for wildlife, foster social connections, and support overall public health. Trees further offer a cost-effective solution for mitigating the severe impacts of climate change, such as heat waves, droughts, and flooding. Recognizing the importance of trees not only enhances our quality of life but also helps build healthier, safer, and more vibrant communities.Story by Vasuta Chan, Senior Sustainable Designer, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, Fitwel Ambassador, RISCReference by1. TreePeople Organization. (n.d.). 22 benefits of trees. Retrieved from https://treepeople.org/22-benefits-of-trees/​2. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2021). The health benefits of trees. Retrieved from https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/the-health-benefits-of-trees/​3. Arbor Day Foundation. (n.d.). The value of trees. Retrieved from https://www.arborday.org/value​4. NHS Forest. (n.d.). Why do humans need trees for health? here's what you.... Retrieved from https://nhsforest.org/blog/humans-need-trees-for-health/​5. Savatree. (n.d.). The importance of trees - learn value and benefit of trees. Retrieved from https://savatree.com/resource-center/tree-varieties/why-trees/​6. Immerse yourself in a forest for better health. Retrieved from https://dec.ny.gov/nature/forests-trees/immerse-yourself-for-better-health

Which Trees Protect You Best from Pollution?

By RISC | 3 weeks ago

Your air purifier might be working hard during the dust season but trees are also heroes in filtering out dust!Trees can trap PM2.5 with hairy, smooth, or rough leaves or with their complex branches. They also absorb pollutants through their stomata while performing photosynthesis.16 plant species were tested with incense smoke inside a box for 30 minutes. "Aglaonema" worked best, capturing PM2.5 at 30.87%, followed by the "Snake Plant" with 23.70%.Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chairat Tri-Trapsuntorn tested plants in a closed system with a 1 cubic meter volume, starting with a PM2.5 concentration of 450-500 micrograms per cubic meter. "Velvet Carpet" reduced dust by over 60% and "Snake Plant" by over 40%. These ornamental plants can grow indoors or near windows to capture dust before it blows into your house.If you have outdoor space, you can also design a garden to help reduce pollution.Researchers from King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Srinakharinwirot University, and Kasetsart University published a prototype garden using trees to sustainably reduce PM2.5 dust, supported by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). This garden mimics an ecosystem where trees have diverse characteristics. They selected trees with 3 height levels:- Large trees, such as Royal Poinciana, Indian Rosewood, and Champak- Medium-sized trees, such as Moke and Ficus- Shrubs, such as Areca Palm, Peace Lily, Bird’s Nest Fern, Aglaonema, Calathea, and Peacock CalatheaThe 3-tiered planting system helps to block and trap dust. Plant at least 2 layers: a layer of small shrubs facing the wind and a second layer alternating between medium-sized shrubs and large trees. This arrangement slows airflow and allows the dust particles to be trapped more effectively by plant leaves. Moisture from transpiration increases the weight of the dust particles, making them fall faster. Watering the plants once a week helps clean the leaves and increase soil moisture. The system can block dust by 20-60%.Story by Panpisu Julpanwattana, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A Specialist, RISC​References:Kantitat Thapsuwan, Siradech Surit. (2021). Dust Particle Capture from Incense Smoke Using Indoor Plants. Journal of Buddhist Social Science and Anthropology, 6(12), 80-93.Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chairat Treesubsuntorn. (2022). Sustainable PM Phytoremediation by Perennial Plants. National Research Council of Thailand.

Why Trees Need the Right Soil pH

By RISC | 2 months ago

Soil isn’t just a solid foundation for trees but a source of essential nutrients that can help them thrive.Trees need 14 types of nutrients for growth:6 macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S). These are essential for growth and are required in large amounts. A deficiency can stunt growth and cause the plant to wilt or even die.8 micronutrients: iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), and chlorine (Cl). Although required in smaller quantities, these nutrients are just as vital for plant health.Soil typically has these nutrients but how well plants can absorb them depends on the soil’s pH level, which affects their solubility in a form that plants can absorb.The optimal pH for soil is about 6.0 to 6.5. If the pH is too high or too low, some nutrients become less soluble and unavailable for plants. With a pH below 6, phosphorus becomes less soluble. Highly acidic soil can reduce yields and cause short and swollen roots with damaged tips.We can fix these problems. With acidic soils, use lime-containing materials such as wood ash, crushed limestone, quicklime, or dolomite. With alkaline soils, apply aluminum sulfate or sulfur.Story by: Nakarin Phongphaew, Intern from Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University and Thanawat Jinjarak, senior researcher Environmental Department Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC

Why Do City Trees Have Fewer Blooms?

By RISC | 2 months ago

Trees in nature often bloom beautifully, giving us wonderful blossoms to enjoy. But have you noticed that urban trees seem to flower less?So what factors affect how tree bloom? Flowering is governed by internal factors, such as shorter or longer days and the tree’s maturity, as well as external factors like water and pruning.City trees are often exposed to artificial lighting at night (read more: https://bit.ly/3rF7P5g). Research has found that some species flower less with limited or interrupted nighttime darkness, even if trees reach the right age. Trees shaded by buildings can also get less sunlight.Certain tree species bloom during dry seasons. Water stress triggers flowering as a survival mechanism. But urban trees are frequently watered year-round, reducing this response.To ensure city trees bloom seasonally, it’s essential to start with tree species suited to the local environment. Spaces should provide adequate exposure to both sunlight and artificial light. Care should mimic natural conditions and stimulate seasonal flowering. The result will be a beautiful city with charming urban spaces.Story by: Siriwan Sukngam, Intern from Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University and Thanawat Jinjarak, senior researcher Environmental Department Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC Reference by At gardare. (ม.ป.ป.). ปัจจัยที่มีผลต่อการเจริญเติบโตของไม้ประดับ. [ออนไลน์]. แหล่งที่มา:  https://researchex.mju.ac.th/agikl/index.php/knowledge/27-flowers/garden-tree/151-gardentree-4​มูลนิธิโครงการสารานุกรมไทยสำหรับเยาวชน. (ม.ป.ป.). การเกิดดอก. [ออนไลน์]. แหล่งที่มา: https://www.saranukromthai.or.th/sub/book/book.php?book=5&chap=2&page=t5-2-infodetail12.html​อมรธัช อุนจะนำ. การออกดอกและการติดผลของต้นไม้. พืชสวน. 5(1), 17-22​sd perspectives. (2562, 22 เมษายน). พื้นที่สีเขียว&ต้นไม้ในโครงการอสังหาฯ คืออีกสิ่งช่วยตัดสินใจซื้อ !. [ออนไลน์]. แหล่งที่มา: https://www.sdperspectives.com/next-gen/sansiri-tree-story-green-mission/​บ้านและสวน. (2563, 4 เมษายน). ตัดไม้ดอก อย่างไรให้ออกดอกสวย ลำต้นไม่โทรม?. [ออนไลน์]. แหล่งที่มา: https://www.baanlaesuan.com/185555/baanlaesuan-school/trim-flower​Park, Y.G., Jeong, B.R. Both the Quality and Positioning of the Night Interruption Light are Important for Flowering and Plant Extension Growth. J Plant Growth Regul 39, 583–593 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00344-019-10002-5​พจนีย์ แสงมณี. 2563. ผลของการตัดแต่งกิ่งและจัดการธาตุอาหารที่มีต่อการเจริญเติบโตและผลผลิตของมะม่วงหิมพานต์. วารสารเกษตร. 36(3), 313-319

Trees Have Many More Types of Root than You Thought

By RISC | 2 months ago

You know that trees have taproots, lateral roots branching from them, and fibrous roots… But do you know about all the others, including some you mightn’t realize are roots?Taproots and lateral roots are among the best-known types of root. They anchor plants to the soil and absorb water and nutrients that go to trunks for growth. But trees also develop adventitious roots for challenging environments where survival can be tough. These specialized roots come in many fascinating forms:Prop roots develop from the trunk under stressful conditions, such as flooding or soft soil. They provide extra support so the tree stays upright. These roots often appear as woody structures growing from the stem. A classic example is in mangroves in coastal wetlands.Storage roots store nutrients within their structure and have diverse shapes, such as conical, fusiform, napiform (heart-shaped), and tuberous. Plants with storage roots include cassava, carrots, and beets, though we may not recognize them as roots at first glance.Aerial roots grow above the ground and serve as anchors on various surfaces, such as those in climbing plants. These roots can contain chloroplasts capable of photosynthesis, giving them a distinct green appearance, as seen in orchid aerial roots.Air roots play a role in gas exchange and oxygen transport to submerged roots in the soil. For example, pneumatophores of the white mangrove rise above the ground to access oxygen in waterlogged environments, where roots buried in soil lack adequate air.Parasitic roots penetrate the roots of other plants to extract nutrients, acting as their primary food source. These roots often harm the host plant, stunting its growth and, in severe cases, causing it to wither and die.Buttress roots are an adaptation of certain trees for environments such as near water bodies or in shallow soils. When taproots cannot penetrate deep into the ground, buttress roots spread out from the base of the trunk, forming large, flat structures to provide stability and support.Story by: Nakarin Phongphaew, Intern from Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University and Thanawat Jinjarak, senior researcher Environmental Department Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC

Why Is Water a Danger for Plants?

By RISC | 2 months ago

Trees are easy to plant but much harder to grow! Keeping them healthy takes knowledge...The factors that affect plants include sunlight, soil, water, air, temperature, and fertilizers. Water is especially critical. Too little and they’ll wither and die. Too much and they can catch diseases and die.Rootzone soil has 3 key components: soil particles, air-filled pores, and water. Regular watering without considering environmental conditions can lead to waterlogged soil and pores. This situation can lead to root rot, lack of oxygen for roots, and moisture-linked diseases such as fungal infections. Once fungi penetrate roots, they can spread throughout the stem and propagate via air and water. These problems prevent roots absorbing water and nutrients effectively, halting the tree's growth.So the right amount of water is a vital for healthy plants. Regularly checking soil conditions and moisture levels, as well as adjusting the water quantity based on weather and plant needs, can minimize the risks of overwatering. Story by: Siriwan Sukngam, Intern from Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University and Thanawat Jinjarak, senior researcher Environmental Department Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISCReference:กรมส่งเสริมการเษตร. 2558. การใช้น้ำอย่างรู้คุณค่าในการปลูกพืชผัก และพืชสมุนไพร. พิมพ์ครั้งที่ 1. https://esc.doae.go.th/vegetable/​กรมส่งเสริมการเษตร. หากพืชได้รับน้ำมากหรือน้อยเกินไป จะเกิดผลเสียอย่างไร. ​ยงยุทธ โอสถสภา. 2565. เข้าใจดิน ดูแลดิน หลังน้ำท่วม. [ออนไลน์]. แหล่งที่มา: [ออนไลน์]. แหล่งที่มา: https://www.doae.go.th/answers/หากพืชได้รับน้ำมากหรือ/​เนชั่นแนล จีโอกราฟฟิก ประเทศไทย. เชื้อราในพืช ความสัมพันธ์ของสิ่งมีชีวิตจากภาวะพึ่งพาอาศัย ไปจนถึงภาวะปรสิต. [ออนไลน์]. แหล่งที่มา: https://ngthai.com/science/48232/believe-in-plants/

How Trees Can Forecast the Weather

By RISC | 3 months ago

We all know how a tree's rings reveal its age. But did you know how the color and width of these rings tell us about past weather?Trees respond to their environment through biological processes that are crucial to their survival. These responses include changes in growth due to moisture and temperature fluctuations, seasonal adaptations like leaf shedding, and alerts sent by roots or airborne chemicals when disturbed. Even the growth of trunks and branches adjusts to withstand wind forces.Weather patterns, such as consistent rainfall or extreme heat, affect flowering and growth. Some trees store energy to wait for optimal conditions before reproducing. A striking example is the Yangna (Dipterocarpus alatus).Yangna trees have a remarkable ability to forecast weather based on their flowering and fruiting patterns. These behaviors are influenced by environmental factors like humidity, temperature, and rainfall. A Yangna with abundant flowers and fruits often signals an impending rainy season with lots of rainfall. Prof. Nopphorn Nontapa studied the relationship between Yangna flowering and rainfall for over a decade to collect data for predicting rainfall in various locations. The patterns can even provide insight into the direction of approaching storms.Trees don’t forecast weather in the same way we do. But their evolutionary adaptations are highly effective for survival. The older a tree, the more accurate its record of local climate conditions becomes.​Story by: Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC​Reference by Forest Plantation School

Why Don’t Spiders Get Stuck in Their Webs?​

By RISC | 5 months ago

What’s stronger than steel and more flexible than rubber? Spider silk!​Spider silk is incredibly tough. If a strand were as thick as a pencil, it could stop a Boeing 747 in mid-flight. Think about Spider-Man shooting his webs when fighting villains or swinging between buildings… Those webs are incredibly strong!But there’s more to spider silk than just its strength.​Spider silk has different types of threads – sticky and non-sticky. Each thread serves a unique purpose. Spiders have 7 silk-producing glands in their abdomen, and each gland produces a different type of silk:​• Glandula Aggregate: Produces sticky silk.​• Glandula Ampulleceae – major: Produces strong, durable silk for walking.​• Glandula Ampulleceae – minor: Produces temporary walking silk during web-making.​• Glandula Pyrifomes: Produces adhesive silk for attachment.​• Glandula Anciniformes: Produces flexible capture silk for catching prey.​• Glandula Tubiliformes: Produces silk for building nests or egg sacs.​• Glandula Corontae: Produces sticky, adhesive silk.​Since spiders create these fibers, they know exactly where to walk on their webs without getting stuck. Their legs also have tiny hairs and special hooks that allow them to walk confidently on the sticky strands.​Beyond catching insects or prey, spider silk has another intriguing function: it helps spiders sense their environment through vibrations. With such incredible properties, spider silk has inspired many innovations, including bulletproof vests, safety belts, and even surgical sutures.​Nature’s wonders surround us every day. Stay tuned for more on the world’s amazing creatures from RISC.​​Story by: Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC​​References:​Esme Mathis. (2022). Australian Geographic. "Unspinning the secrets of spider webs." From: https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/news/2024/07/cobra-bite-treatment/ (Accessed on 1 August 2024)​http://oservice.skru.ac.th/ebookft/601/chapter_7.pdf (Accessed on 1 August 2024)​

Watch Out for Animal Visitors in the Rainy Season…

By RISC | 8 months ago

Rain in the rainy season can bring some wildlife into our homes and gardens that isn’t always welcome. But we can stay safe with some simple steps.​​Thailand’s rainy season is already underway. In addition to taking extra care when we travel, we should stay alert for various creatures. RISC has tips for dealing with 3 types of creature so both you and they can avoid harm. ​Snakes can be a concern. They typically live in bushes, trees, and damp undergrowth. But they can come out in search of rats. Keep your home clean to ensure there are no food sources or hiding spots. If you find a snake near your home that you fear might be dangerous, you can call 199 for immediate assistance.​Rove beetles are another worry. They need humidity to breed and prefer the night. They produce a toxin called paederin that can cause skin irritation, redness, and blisters. Keep all your windows and doors closed and check your bed or seating area often. If you meet one, blow or shake it away without touching it.​Tiny creatures like centipedes and scorpions can also be found in damp corners and leaf piles. Their toxins can harm humans and pets. An accidental touch can induce allergies. And, in extreme cases, severe allergies can result in death.​During the rainy season keep your home and garden tidy, eliminating corners like piles of materials, wood chips, and leaves. Repair cracks and soil subsidence to keep these creatures out.​Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC ​Reference:​Health Literacy and Communication Promotion Division, Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health​