Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

The Pros and Cons of Solar Farms in the United States

What are the pros and cons of solar farms? How can developers address local apprehensions and advance larger energy objectives? Many rural US communities resist the development of solar farms, fearing their environmental impact, destabilization of local economies, and perceived inequitable returns. Solar supporters argue that the minimal risks from solar farms are outweighed by significant benefits. Here’s a look at both sides of the solar farm argument.

The US Rail System Wants to Upgrade to High-Speed Trains

A train going at high speed next to a field

What’s the history of the US rail system? Why has the US long failed to prioritize high-speed rail construction? Will there ever be a high-speed train in the US? The US Department of Transportation’s recent commitment of $6 billion to high-speed rail, fueled by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, could ignite further development in domestic rail service. Despite the government’s renewed focus on high-speed rail, serious challenges remain. Here’s an overview of the conversation about the US rail system.

The Benefits of Journaling Daily: Improve Mindfulness & Memory

What are the benefits of journaling daily? What does the CDC say journaling can do for you? What should you write in your journal? Journaling sounds like a great idea—at least until you have to confront a blank page each day. But experts say that if you can get the habit to stick, writing about your experiences can have real benefits for your health. Here’s the psychology behind journaling and how to get started.

CRISPR Gene-Editing Technology Delivers Breakthroughs

How is CRISPR revolutionizing medicine and agriculture? What obstacles and ethical debates stand in the way of its widespread use? CRISPR gene-editing technology is facilitating groundbreaking treatments for genetic diseases and it’s promoting global food security. Continued improvement of CRISPR technology could drive personalized medicine, provide new treatments, and revolutionize agriculture and industrial biotechnology. Here’s a look at the potential uses of CRISPR technology, and the obstacles and implications that come with it.

Cases of “Brain Fog” Increase After Covid-19 Pandemic

How common is brain fog after Covid-19? What are some other causes of the increase in cognitive impairment? More Americans are reporting that they’re having trouble with attention, memory, and focus. Many use the term “brain fog” to describe what they’re experiencing. Some experts think it could be linked to Covid-19. Keep reading to learn why many are struggling with brain fog after the pandemic.

2024 Housing Market Predictions: Will It Improve?

Will the 2024 housing market be as bad as the 2023 market? How did the 2007-2008 financial crisis trigger today’s affordable housing struggles? Why is homeownership a pipedream for many Americans? Stricter lending standards and sky-high home prices have rendered homeownership increasingly unattainable for many Americans. Despite slight improvements expected in 2024, long-term housing affordability remains uncertain due to supply shortages, high prices, and increasing economic inequality. Keep reading for an idea of what’s in store for the year ahead.

Creative Uses of AI in Business: Nike, Sephora, Amazon, & More

What are some creative uses of AI in business? How can AI improve the customer experience? Top global brands like Coca-Cola, Sephora, and Walmart are leveraging AI to innovate customer engagement and streamline company operations. From formulating new products to predicting demand, AI is changing the way businesses operate. Below, we’ll go over five companies and how they use AI in unique ways.

Self-Checkout Problems Make Retailers Reconsider Kiosks

Are self-checkout problems worth the rewards? What negative impacts do they have on customers and employees? How do they harm businesses’ bottom line? Following an expansion of self-checkout machines in stores during the Covid-19 pandemic, some retailers are reconsidering the kiosks. Many companies complain that they’re not getting the bigger profits the machines initially promised—but they are getting bigger problems. We’ll take a look at the downfalls of self-checkout kiosks below.

Public Trust in Science Is Waning—Why This Is Dangerous

A doctor putting a shot in a person's arm.

Why has there been a sudden decrease in confidence in science? How could the distrust of science endanger individuals and the country? The public’s trust in science has dropped sharply over the last few years. This trend has people from all sides of the political spectrum, and in fields ranging from medicine to public policy, concerned about the future of progress in the United States. Here are some possible reasons why trust in science is waning.

2024 Job Market Predictions—Which Markets Will Thrive?

Nurses and a construction worker outside representing the 2024 job market.

What will the 2024 job market look like? Which industries will come out on top? What essential skills must job seekers develop to stay competitive in the evolving landscape? Despite predictions of a steady job market in 2024, economists predict significant growth in health care, utilities, and construction. The tech sector is bracing for a paradox in 2024, with artificial intelligence advances expected to trigger layoffs but also to spur the growth of specialized AI-related roles. Keep reading for a more in-depth look at the coming job market.