Environment
The baobob fruit is one of the 100 traditional African food crops that a group of scientists want to learn more about to improve nutrition.
Could African Crops Be Improved With Private Biotech Data?
()A plant scientist at Mars Inc. has appealed to the world's biggest life sciences companies to help him — by sharing what they already know about 100 crops that could provide better nutrition in Africa. But can the kings of agricultural intellectual property get onboard with open source agricultural information for Africa?
Storm Chasers Seek Thrills, But Also Chance To Warn Others
"There was debris raining out of the air on top of us," Oklahoma storm chaser Chris McBee says.
()The Salt
Vertical 'Pinkhouses:' The Future Of Urban Farming?()
May 21, 2013 Architects have come up with spectacular concepts for vertical farms that would grow crops in city skyscrapers. But many horticulturists think the future of vertical farming isn't in skyscrapers, but rather in large, indoor warehouses lit up magenta by superefficient LEDs.
The Two-Way
Measuring The Power Of Deadly Tornadoes()
May 20, 2013 Tornado strength is currently measured on what is called the Enhanced Fujita Scale, which gives the tornado a rating from 0 to 5 based on estimated wind speeds and the severity of the damage.
Around the Nation
Impossible Choice Faces America's First 'Climate Refugees'()
May 18, 2013 The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says the tiny town of Newtok, Alaska, could be completely underwater by 2017. Its 350 residents must relocate or stay to face the floods, but a move is easier said than done.
Parallels
Afghan Mineral Treasures Stay Buried, Hostages To Uncertainty()
May 18, 2013 Afghanistan is believed to be home to world-class mineral deposits, valued at up to $3 trillion and offering hope for the country's economic future. But in the current environment of uncertainty, investors are nervous and it could be many years before Afghanistan strikes pay dirt.
Not Your Grandpa's RV: This Roving Lab Tracks Air Pollution()
May 18, 2013 Atmospheric scientist Ira Leifer installed special air sensors on a camper, then drove from Florida to California, measuring methane levels all along the way. More than 6,000 readings later, he found some noticeable spikes, especially around petrochemical plants and urban areas like Los Angeles.
TED Radio Hour
Ron Finley: How Can You Give A Community Better Health? ()
May 17, 2013 Ron Finley plants vegetable gardens in South Central LA — in abandoned lots, traffic medians, along the curbs. He hopes to offer some alternative to fast food in a community where "the drive-thrus are killing more people than the drive-bys."










