A Call for an End to Kentucky Breed-Specific LegislationBy: Lucy Falkner and Merit HarrisWhile many states continue to address and enact legislation promoting equality for domesticated animals, Kentucky stands strong in their allowance of breed-specific legislation (hereinafter “BSL”).  BSL are laws designed to protect against breeds of dogs that are stereotypically malicious or dangerous, such as pit…

Thanos: Evil Supervillain or Environmental Advocate? Examining the Environmental Impact of the Entertainment IndustryBy: Gabriella WirasaktiAvengers: Endgame, at its surface a record-breaking superhero flick, was an unexpected and symbolic critique on climate change. The main villain, Thanos, recognized the issues of overpopulation and depleted resources and fought against the titular group of Avengers in an…

“Cocaine Hippos” By: Tyler Belcher At U.S. common law, animals are considered property and therefore do not have legally recognizable rights. However, only until recently have courts strayed from this position. In October 2021, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio awarded legal personhood to some 100 descendants of hippos formerly owned by Colombian…

The Negative Impacts of Outdoor Cats and How to Combat Overpopulation By: Jordyn Fink & Danielle TackettIntroductionWhile dogs are renowned as man’s best friend, another pet has become a beloved addition to many American households in recent years: cats. You either love them or know someone who loves them. Cats can be fun, loving animals…

Firefighting Foam Fabrications Facilitate Lawsuit By: Johnathan Barnes IntroductionThe Attorney General of Michigan filed suit against thirteen companies who manufacture commercially available Class B aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) seeking to hold them liable for damages to the State’s natural resources. One of the thirteen companies named in the complaint is Vulcan Fire Systems, Inc., a Kentucky corporation.Commercial…

The Negative Impacts of Low Tree Canopy Percentages in Low Income AreasBy: Maria Maclauso & Matt ShahroudiIntroductionUrban tree canopy coverage provides important ecosystem services and environmental benefits for urban residents. Trees provide carbon sequestration, noise reduction, air and water quality improvement, stormwater reduction and energy savings in the urban landscape they help shade.[1] Urban…

The Murky Truth of the Clean Beauty Movement By: Bobbie Brooke Hopkins & Mary Beth Howard In today’s modern society, standards of personal wellbeing look very different than decades before. The 21st century brought about the evolutionary shift away from chemically treated foods, harsh dyes, and preservatives. Along with this shift came the emergence of the trendy…