In this edition of Squirrel News, we highlight solar balconies powering urban renewable energy shifts in Germany, a groundbreaking blood test enhancing cancer detection in low-income countries, and a high-speed rail project promising economic growth and reduced pollution between Las Vegas and Southern California.
‘Solar balconies’ are helping drive urban renewable energy shift
Over 400,000 balcony solar systems have been installed in Germany, offering apartment residents a simple and efficient way to produce their own electricity and participate in the energy transition.
Source: Euronews
New blood test improves cancer detection in low-income countries
Researchers have developed a cost-effective blood test that significantly improves cancer detection rates in low- and middle-income countries, where diagnostic facilities are scarce.
Source: Financial Times
New US high-speed rail to boost connectivity
The upcoming high-speed train project, connecting Las Vegas to Southern California, is set to generate thousands of union jobs and foster economic growth while reducing traffic and pollution.
Source: El Pais
Historic nursing home reform in the US sets staffing standards
The US is introducing a federal rule establishing minimum staffing levels in nursing homes, marking the most significant sector reform in decades and aiming to significantly improve care conditions.
Source: The 19th
UK to ban plastic-containing wet wipes in bid to protect waterways
The UK government will introduce legislation to outlaw the sale of wet wipes containing plastic, aiming to curb pollution and protect marine ecosystems.
Source: Sky News
US federal agency bans restrictive job contracts for worker mobility
The US Federal Trade Commission has issued a nationwide ban on noncompete clauses for most workers, aiming to increase their freedom to change jobs or start businesses independently.
Source: CBS News
Optogenetics offers new hope for restoring vision in degenerative eye diseases
Groundbreaking optogenetic therapies are showing promise for restoring sight to individuals with retinitis pigmentosa and other degenerative eye conditions.
Source: Washington Post
Thailand enhances sustainable aquaculture with IMTA approach
Thailand’s aquaculture industry follows China’s lead, embracing Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). It is an approach that allows multiple marine species to coexist, enhancing both ecosystem health and economic benefits for local fish farmers.
Source: Reasons to be Cheerful
Nature debuts as Spotify artist to fund global conservation efforts
“Nature” has been recognised as an official artist on streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music. Revenue from tracks featuring natural sounds will support biodiversity protection and conservation projects.
Source: Euronews
#36: Rediscovering the past to shape the future
In our new podcast episode, we continue our conversation about history with a special guest and a special project in which Jonathan’s father recently rediscovered the story of a German-Jewish couple who left Germany during and after World War II and became very well-known in the US – but remained almost unknown in Germany.