Living root bridges, deafblind sign language, first hurricane-proof country

Photo: Courtesy Ferdinand Ludvig / Dynaimage (CC0)

In this issue of Squirrel News root bridges in India shown to be impressive bio-structures, Spanish deafblind man invents sign language for those without hearing or sight, and Dominica is on track to become hurricane-proof due to radical governmental strategies.

“Living root bridges” in India’s Meghalaya plateau provide potential solution for cities adapting to the climate crisis

These bio-structures might last for hundreds of years, due to remarkable strength, impressive weight absorbtion and ability to allow humans to coexist with nature in a non-invasive manner.

Source: CNN International

Spanish deafblind man invents sign language based on touch for those without hearing and sight

Sergio Romero and his carer Cristina have devised an innovative new means of communication called SERCRI – an alternative for the 7,000 Spaniards who share Sergio’s condition.

Source: El Pais

The Caribbean island of Dominica is set to become the world’s first hurricane-proof country

After the destruction of over 90% of the island’s structures at the hands of Hurricane Maria in 2017, Dominica’s government have employed radical new strategies.

Source: National Geographic

In the US a new generation of black farmers are reclaiming the land their ancestors lost

Having lost over 12 million acres of land since 1910, three farmer-led organisations are creating an innovative new infrastructure for reparations owed to the black community.

Source: Yes Magazine

Australian dogs trained to sniff out koalas amid wildfires

Meet the dogs that have been specifically trained to sniff out koala droppings as a means of locating and rescuing the surviving animals

Source: VICE

Madagascar launches world’s largest mangrove carbon conservation project

Launched by local communities, this conservation project sequesters a huge amount of carbon whilst protecting the coast from extreme weather and rising sea levels

Source: Skoll

A social entrepeneur is introducing the Danish model for children’s homes to the UK

Inspired by a house in Copenhagen where all the staff are pedagogues and the children cook for each other, Lighthouse Charity aim to revitalise how children’s homes operate in the UK.

Source: The Guardian

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