Today on Squirrel News, we’re looking at how grassroots activism has led to right to repair legislation in all 50 US states, a groundbreaking 3D-printed neighbourhood providing housing for homeless people in Texas, and Denmark’s decision to ban phones in schools to support student well-being.
All 50 US states have introduced right to repair legislation
The right to repair movement has reached a milestone, with all 50 US states introducing legislation to expand repair access. Grassroots advocacy has fuelled this nationwide push, overcoming industry resistance and shaping policy changes.
3D-printed neighbourhood to house 100 homeless people in Texas
A first-of-its-kind 3D-printed neighbourhood in Austin, Texas, will provide 100 permanent homes for people facing chronic homelessness. Built through a partnership between a nonprofit and a construction technology firm, the project aims to create a sustainable housing solution.
Denmark to ban mobile phones in schools to improve student well-being
Denmark will require schools and after-school clubs to be phone-free, following concerns over the negative impact of screen time on children’s well-being. The decision follows a government commission’s findings that excessive screen use harms children’s well-being and social development.
New research offers hope for pancreatic cancer patients
Pancreatic cancer has one of the lowest survival rates, with up to 75% of patients dying within a year of diagnosis. Now, scientists are developing blood tests for earlier detection and targeted treatments to slow tumour growth.
Turning beer waste into food, leather, and bioplastic
The brewing industry produces 37 million tonnes of spent grain waste annually, much of which ends up in landfills, releasing methane. Now, scientists and companies are transforming this byproduct into vegan milk, high-protein foods, sustainable leather alternatives, and even bioplastics.
Great Lakes fishers in the US, Canada turn waste into new products
With half of every commercially caught fish traditionally going to waste, Great Lakes fishers are adopting a sustainable model inspired by Iceland’s fishing industry. Through the 100% Great Lakes Fish Initiative, they are repurposing fish parts into fertiliser, collagen, leather, and other high-value products.
One man’s mission sparks community effort to green a UK ‘tree desert’
In East Marsh, Grimsby, where tree cover is less than 3%, resident Billy Dasein founded a community-benefit society to plant thousands of trees. His initiative has united residents in improving air quality, reducing heat, and transforming their streets with nature.
Building a sustainable tourism industry for locals and the environment
Experts suggest a more sustainable tourism industry could include solutions like setting tourist limits, enforcing sustainability regulations, and shifting traveller expectations.
Ugandan women train future leaders in climate resilience
A grassroots movement in Uganda is equipping young women with practical skills to better adapt to climate change. Through Girls for Climate Action, over 300 women have learnt sustainable solutions like making eco-friendly stoves and firewood alternatives.
Universal basic income: Can giving everyone ‘free money’ work?
Countries from Finland to Kenya are testing universal basic income, with early results in Kenya showing boosts in business activity and food security. While challenges remain, experts suggest exploring funding models to make the programme sustainable.
