Tag Archives: Southeast Asia

today’s holiday: Myanmar Peasants’ Day (2015)

Myanmar Peasants’ Day (2015)

The Union of Myanmar, known as Burma until 1989, is in southeast Asia. Myanmar’s predominant industry is agriculture, and, at one point, it was the biggest exporter of rice in Asia, but now its line of agricultural products is more diverse. The country could not support these agricultural activities without the peasant workers, and to show their appreciation for the peasants’ contribution, the country has declared March 2 Peasants’ Day. It is a national holiday. It was also on this day in 1962 that Burmese General Ne Win led the military coup. The country holds parades on this day to honor him. More… Discuss

Flower Power: Dandelion Tires

Flower Power: Dandelion Tires

Dandelions are widely considered pesky weeds, but they have numerous uses, some of which we are just beginning to capitalize on. Until now, the tire industry has relied entirely on rubber-tree plantations in Southeast Asia for its natural rubber. However, researchers have been working to breed a type of dandelion native to Kazakhstan that yields tire-grade rubber and have achieved per-hectare yields on par with rubber-tree plantations, suggesting the flower is a viable alternative source of natural rubber. It may not be long before dandelion fields begin cropping up across the US and Europe to keep the wheels of the tire industry turning. More… Discuss



Though it is one of the iconic dishes of Japanese cuisine, sushi originated in Southeast Asia. It later spread to China before being introduced to Japan, where the version we recognize today was developed. It is now popular all over the world. Outside Japan, “sushi” is often taken to mean “raw fish,” but it actually means “sour” and simply refers to a dish made with vinegared rice—it can include raw or cooked fish, vegetables, or egg. What popular sushi filling was introduced by NorwegiansMore… Discuss


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