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BYU 1984 Magazine

I haven’t given much thought to my own retirement, since it’s about 40 years away, but Lee Benson’s article on horticulturist Peter Murray has me thinking about how I’ll spend it. Will I pass my days relaxing at home, or will I take a page out of Peter’s book and save the earth?

Actually, Peter has managed to do a bit of both. After a 35-year career as a landscape architect, he knew he wanted to spend his retirement doing something to benefit the earth, although he wasn’t sure what.

He happened upon a startling article which reported that the world uses 5 trillion plastic bags every year, or 160,000 per second.

“When I read that, I was staggered,” Peter said. “I mean, it’s criminal, the harm we do, the damage we leave, to future generations.”

He put his lifelong study of plants to use and came up with a bag that is everything a plastic bag isn’t: handy, sturdy yet lightweight, cheaper (in the long run) and biodegradable. After a series of experiments, Peter created a lightweight cotton-jute bag that can hold up to 140 pounds — and if you happen to lose it in the woods, it will biodegrade in about two months.

Read more about Peter’s invention and its growth.

More in Utah

Why the spirit of Veterans Day is so important

The Deseret News Editorial Board writes:

These days, the nation is filled with the chatter of experts wondering whether World War III is at hand.

One thing, we trust, is certain, based on history. If the need should arise, America’s young men and women would stand up to defend her, just as previous generations have done.

And we owe so much to those previous generations.

Nov. 11 is Veterans Day, a holiday set aside to signify the end of World War I, which happened on the 11th hour of the 11th day in the 11th month of 1918. That was supposed to be the war to end war, a term attributed to author and social commentator H. G. Wells. That optimism faded quickly after the conflict ended and animosities continued, but the valor and bravery of those who preserved freedom and liberty during that war endured.

Read more about Veterans Day and what Americans think about the possibility of another world war.

FROM OUR SPONSOR BYU 1984 MAGAZINE

SPECIAL OFFER: Relive the trail to fame and glory

Calling all BYU fans! This year is the 40th anniversary of BYU's magical 1984 season where the Cougars went undefeated and claimed the National Championship. Relive the glory of victory with an exclusive retrospective magazine from the Deseret News, "1984: The Year BYU Was Second to None."

Inside you'll find never-before-read stories from the players on the '84 team, sports writers who covered each play and the insights from the family of LaVell Edwards. This is a limited edition magazine, perfect for every Cougar fan who bleeds blue. Order now!

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