John R. Platt is a freelance journalist specializing in environmental issues, cutting-edge technology, and entrepreneurship. He writes about endangered species for Scientific American and green technology for several publishers. John lives on the coast of Maine where he spends his spare time drawing cartoons. Visit him online at www.johnrplatt.com.
Is beach restoration a forever task?
September 28, 2018, 11:18 a.m. by John Platt
Beaches change — whether from natural erosion or from storms such as Hurricane Florence. That's where human intervention can play a role.
Chagas disease more deadly than we thought
August 23, 2018, 2:13 p.m. by John Platt
Transmitted by the kissing bug, this parasite can damage the heart.
You can thank 1940s sex symbol Hedy Lamarr for today's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices
August 7, 2018, 10:57 a.m. by John Platt
The actress helped invent spread-spectrum radio technology, the precursor of modern wireless communications.
Fabled 'Gate to Hell' really did kill people — and now we know why
July 30, 2018, 10:19 a.m. by John Platt
The ancient Romans saw 'Pluto's Gate' as the entrance to the underworld.
Starfish make remarkable comeback years after deadly disease outbreak
June 26, 2018, 10:16 a.m. by John Platt
The disease caused starfish to lose their limbs, dissolve and die.
Invasive plant that can cause blindness pops up in Virginia for first time
June 18, 2018, 10:10 a.m. by John Platt
Touching a giant hogweed can cause burns and even blindness.
Cyberslacking boosts workplace productivity
May 21, 2018, 11:08 a.m. by John Platt
Checking Facebook and laughing at LOLcats makes you a more productive worker, research shows.
Why San Diego's tides are glowing blue
May 10, 2018, 10:31 a.m. by John Platt
Bioluminescent algae blooms every few years on the California coast.
Is Amazon Prime eco-friendly or wasteful?
April 19, 2018, 8:42 a.m. by John Platt
Does the ease of free, one-click shipping outweigh the potential environmental costs?
Did researchers find Amelia Earhart's skeleton?
March 8, 2018, 10:56 a.m. by John Platt
Remains found in 1940 and analyzed in recent years may be the pilot.
Should texting while walking be banned?
February 27, 2018, 10:04 a.m. by John Platt
More places want to fine people who cross the street with their eyes glued to their phones.
Installation begins on Jeff Bezos' 10,000-year clock
February 21, 2018, 11:51 a.m. by John Platt
The clock is "designed to be a symbol, an icon for long-term thinking."
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Zira the Corgi went on a shopping spree, and the internet couldn't handle it
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17 memorable quotes from 'Elf'
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'Signing Day' recognizes high school seniors starting jobs, not college
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A horse named Justice sues his former owner
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The science behind how catnip seduces cats
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In praise of 'scruffy hospitality'
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10 ways to give without buying stuff
Thoughtful gifts can be experiences, time or even a special treat.
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Carbon footprint reality
If you really want to reduce your footprint, have fewer kids and ditch your car.
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Why you should kick the plastic straw habit
Give your time, your money or your expertise — and make a difference.
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16 simple ways to reduce plastic waste
These easy things can decrease the amount of plastic trash you make.
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9 skills they don't teach in school (but should)
From CPR to car repair, these building blocks create safe, successful adults.
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