Today on Squirrel News, we explore promising initiatives: from Devon’s ambitious tree-planting project and India’s near-elimination of ‘black fever’ to South Africa’s innovative approach to combating gender-based violence.
More than 100,000 trees to be planted in Devon to boost Celtic rainforest
To mitigate the decline of temperate rainforests in the UK, the National Trust is spearheading a project in Devon. They aim to plant over 100,000 trees, reviving rare ecosystems and protecting endangered species.
Source: The Guardian
Scotland’s renewable energy output exceeds consumption
In a landmark achievement, Scotland generated more renewable electricity in 2022 than the country’s total consumption.
Source: Euronews
India nears elimination of deadly ‘black fever’
India is on the brink of eradicating kala-azar, the second deadliest parasitic disease after malaria. This development is thanks to extensive health efforts, including the deployment of rural health workers.
Source: Deutsche Welle
Somalia introduces groundbreaking women-led TV show
In a pioneering move, Somalia’s Bilan media team is set to launch the country’s first current affairs TV show hosted by women, aiming to openly discuss taboo topics ranging from menstrual education to women’s political participation.
Source: The Guardian
EU agrees: pharma and cosmetics to fund wastewater cleanup
Pending formal approval by Parliament and Council, the EU’s new ‘polluter pays’ policy mandates the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries to cover 80% of advanced wastewater treatment costs, targeting the elimination of micro-pollutants to protect health and the environment.
Source: Euronews
NYC to launch ‘Department of Sustainable Delivery’
New York City will establish the Department of Sustainable Delivery to regulate e-bikes and scooters, aiming to improve safety and support eco-friendly transport amidst the boom in delivery services.
Source: Bloomberg
Study: Sustainable food systems could yield $10tn annual benefits
A study reveals that transitioning to sustainable food practices could unlock up to $10 trillion in annual benefits by improving health outcomes and mitigating climate change impacts.
Source: The Guardian
States ban wildlife hunting contests to protect ecosystems
Due to the harmful ecological impacts of wildlife hunting contests, including those targeting coyotes and squirrels, several US states have legislated bans to protect species and promote ethical hunting.
Source: News From The States
Solar-powered bags light up education for Uganda’s rural girls
Jamlia Mayanja, a celebrated social entrepreneur, is transforming education access in rural Uganda with her innovative solar-powered bags, enabling girls to study after dusk and easing their daily school commute.
Source: Deutsche Welle
Innovative therapy caravan addresses gender-based violence in South Africa
A mobile therapy project in South Africa is breaking cultural barriers and offering creative therapeutic support to address the high rates of gender-based violence.