Category: Science & Tech
U.S. EPA Launches Fresh Safety Review of Widely Used but Highly Toxic Weed Killer
The EPA has launched a safety investigation of paraquat, a strong weed herbicide used on American fields but banned in over 70 countries. The decision renews federal review of a chemical lambasted by environmentalists, farmworkers, and lawmakers for its severe toxicity and health hazards. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said manufacturers must give updated, real-world scientific…
Wegmans Introduces Facial Recognition in Select Locations to Enhance Safety
Leading US supermarket chain Wegmans now uses facial recognition technology in several stores. Customers saw banners in Brooklyn and Manhattan notifying buyers of facial recognition, which the company confirmed. Signs say the technology is used to “protect the safety and security of our patrons and employees.” Retail stores are increasingly using smart technologies to increase…
AI Search Error Puts Canadian Musician’s Career and Safety at Risk
A well-known Canadian artist has spoken out after a severe mistake in a Google AI-generated search summary incorrectly called him a convicted sex offender. This mistake immediately put his safety and career at risk. Ashley MacIsaac, a fiddler, singer, and composer who has won awards, says that the wrong information caused a live performance to…
AI-Based Medicare Approval Trial Launches in New Jersey, Raising Hope and Concern
New Jersey is one of the first trial grounds for a new government health care endeavor that will utilize AI to evaluate Medicare coverage for specific medical treatments. Some insurance decisions will alter after the January 1–December 31 trial period. Program implementation is in New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, Arizona, and Washington. The federal health…
Tiny Oysters Play a Big Role in Restoring Jersey Shore Waters
Local aquaculture producers have planted thousands of baby oysters along the Jersey Shore to repair the coastal ecology. Though tiny, these crustaceans are enhancing coastal waters and marine environments. Nine aquaculture businesses brought 435,000 spat oysters to two Barnegat Bay and Great Bay restoration reefs in November. The second oyster planting of the year under…
New Jersey Moves to Phase Out Single-Use Plastic Utensils from Restaurants
Restaurant and food service plastic pollution will be reduced in New Jersey. The new state Senate laws may effect delivery and dine-in eateries. The measure prevents companies from giving plastic forks, knives, spoons, or condiment containers without permission. When eating on-site, reusable, washable utensils save plastic waste. Illegal to serve plastic or condiments. excluding jails,…
New Jersey Lawmakers Move to Broaden Vaccine Guidance Amid Concerns Over Federal Direction
NJ lawmakers are working to improve the state’s vaccine decision-making process after federal changes threw doubt on national guidance. This week, a Senate committee introduced legislation to let the state use more legitimate medical groups to promote vaccines. New Jersey’s Department of Health has long depended on the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee, the Advisory Committee…
Stockton University Prepares for Major $19.5 Million Library Upgrade
The Richard E. Bjork Library at Stockton University in New Jersey will be renovated for $19.5 million next fall to facilitate student study. The 60,000-square-foot building was rebuilt to enhance campus students’ collaborative and independent learning. New York, New Brunswick, and Philadelphia-based DIGroup Architecture is revamping the library’s E-Wing. The company plans to add student…
Your every move is watched by facial recognition at some N.J. stores. Don’t they have to tell you?
Jim Smith anticipates a quick grocery trip. Anita and he bought flowers for their new neighbors at Sussex ShopRite. Jim wondered why he was singled out when a loss-prevention staffer approached him in an angry and strange manner seconds later. Several New Jersey establishments covertly use face recognition technology to monitor customers, raising concerns. These…
Airlines Implement Software Update for Airbus A320 Following Sudden Altitude Drop of N.J.-Bound Flight
Global airlines are updating Airbus A320 software after JetBlue crashed. To remove environmental dangers to flight control systems, particularly high sun radiation, Airbus advised and European aviation regulators required adaptation. Last month’s event showed how a popular commercial airliner needs software repair. Every A320 operator must upgrade software, per EASA. Flight safety is crucial, but…