Unlocking Culture with Custom Compass

Ever wondered, “How should I greet someone in Japan?” or “Is bringing a small gift okay in Brazil?” If questions like these cross your mind before travelling, Custom Compass is here to answer all your cultural questions and guide you through the do's and don'ts of global etiquette! This website is designed (1) __________ understanding different customs simple and fun. With our unique feature, you can quickly learn the must-know cultural tips for any destination - from greetings and dining etiquette to what gifts are (2) __________.

Whether you're preparing (3) __________ a business trip and need some professional tips or just curious about social customs before meeting (4) __________, Custom Compass is your go-to guide. Now, wherever you go, you'll feel (5) __________, respectful, and ready to (6) __________ connections across borders.

Save Water, Save Our Planet!

Did you know?

- Only 2.5% of the Earth's water is freshwater, and most of it is locked in (1) __________ glaciers, leaving less than 1% available for human use.

- 1 in 9 people worldwide do not have (2) __________ to safe drinking water, while (3) __________ rely on limited sources that may not be safe.

- The average household can waste up to 20,000 litres of water each year (4) __________ small leaks alone!

Positive Action!

- Instead of leaving the tap running while brushing your teeth or washing your face, turn it off! This simple (5) __________ saves up to 6 litres per minute.

- Aim for a quick, refreshing shower instead of a long soak. Reducing your shower time by just 2 minutes can save over 10 litres of water every day!

- Try reusing clean, leftover water from cooking for your plants or garden. It's a natural way to (6) __________ waste while helping your plants thrive.

Underwater archaeology is a captivating and rare profession that combines history, science, and adventure. Unlike traditional archaeologists who work on land, (1) __________. These professionals uncover artifacts, shipwrecks, and ancient structures to provide invaluable insights into past civilizations and historical events. (2) __________. Underwater archaeology not only preserves history but also helps to deepen our understanding of humanity's connection to water-based environments.

Becoming an underwater archaeologist requires extensive training in both diving and archaeology. These experts must learn advanced scuba diving techniques to safely navigate underwater sites, often in challenging conditions such as low visibility, strong currents, and cold temperatures. (3) __________. The field demands physical endurance and adaptability, as underwater archaeologists frequently work in remote locations with limited resources. Despite the difficulties, these professionals are driven by a passion for discovery and a commitment to preserving submerged cultural heritage.

The rewards of underwater archaeology go beyond the excitement of discovery. Each dive offers a chance to uncover pieces of history (4) __________. The field also provides opportunities to work with museums, universities, and heritage organizations to share their findings with the public. By bringing the past to the surface, (5) __________.

1. Urbanization has led to rapid growth in cities worldwide and created both opportunities and challenges. One major issue arising from urbanization is the increasing demand for housing. As more people move to urban areas seeking employment and better living conditions, the need for housing grows sharply. When the availability of homes cannot meet this demand, property values and rental costs increase considerably, which limits the ability of many people to afford a place to live.

2. As housing prices soar, the cost of living in urban areas also rises. With a larger population, the demand for essential goods and services increases, often causing food, transportation, and healthcare costs to escalate. In many cities, especially those with large populations and limited resources, residents face the added burden of high utility costs due to the strain on infrastructure. These expenses create challenges for middle- and low-income households, who may struggle to maintain a good quality of life.

3. In response to these problems, some cities have established affordable housing initiatives. These programs provide financial support or encourage companies to build homes at lower costs for residents in need. Some cities also encourage the development of public transportation systems, which helps their residents save on transportation costs and reduces overall living expenses. Others have introduced rent control policies to prevent sudden increases in rental costs, which protects low-income residents from housing insecurity.

4. However, the issues persist, as the demand for affordable housing continues to exceed supply. While cities are developing solutions, more needs to be done to make urban living accessible for everyone. Long-term solutions require coordinated efforts among governments, private sectors, and communities to build sustainable urban environments that prioritize affordability and improve the quality of life for all residents.

1. [I] Did you know that millions of tons of electronic waste, or e-waste, are discarded worldwide every year? [II] This staggering amount includes smartphones, computers, and household appliances, most of which are thrown away within just a few years of use. [III] Experts warn that this waste not only clutters our landfills but also introduces serious environmental and health risks. [IV]

2. Improper disposal of e-waste poses significant risks to both the environment and human health. When e-waste is dumped in landfills, it can release toxic substances, such as lead and mercury, into the soil and water, which can wreak havoc on ecosystems and create serious health risks for nearby communities. Additionally, much e-waste is shipped to developing countries where disposal regulations are often less strict. In these regions, workers, often without adequate protective measures, dismantle electronic devices by hand to recover valuable metals like gold and copper. This process puts them at risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals.

3. To combat this growing issue, many countries and organizations are promoting e-waste recycling initiatives. These programs encourage consumers to recycle old electronics responsibly, rather than discarding them. By doing so, valuable materials can be reused, which reduces the need for mining new resources and minimizes environmental damage. Moreover, some companies are adopting sustainable design practices, which means they create products that are easier to repair or upgrade, thereby extending their lifespan. Additionally, educational campaigns are being implemented to raise awareness about the importance of e-waste recycling and proper disposal methods. This effort helps consumers make informed choices about their electronic devices.

4. Public awareness of the harmful impacts of e-waste is gradually rising, and more people are becoming motivated to make environmentally friendly choices. However, achieving global cooperation on this issue remains difficult, since effective solutions require collaboration across borders. Taking action to address e-waste is essential for building a sustainable future and protecting the planet for future generations.