In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re taking a look at Australia becoming the first country in the world to officially legalise the use of psychedelics for mental health treatment purposes, New Zealand’s ban on single-use produce bags in grocery stores in a global first, and how Wales is taking a lead in animal welfare by ending the use of animal snares and glue traps.
Australia becomes the first country to legalise psychedelics for mental health
Australia has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first nation to legalise the therapeutic application of magic mushrooms and MDMA in addressing certain mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
New Zealand bans single-use produce bags at grocery stores
The first-in-the-world measure further encourages individuals to also carry reusable bags specifically for fruits and vegetables, fostering a culture of sustainability.
Wales takes UK lead in banning snare and glue traps for animal capture
The progressive legislation not only prioritises animal welfare, but also establishes a new payments scheme that aims to incentivise farmers to uphold the highest standards of animal well-being.
Cat owners called on for UK’s first feline blood bank
At present, when a cat needs a blood transfusion, vets must typically find a donor cat there and then – but a Portuguese organisation hopes to set up resource for veterinary practices around Britain.
New York delivery workers celebrate new minimum wage legislation
The announcement by Mayor Eric Adams means that app-based delivery workers will be paid $17.96 an hour as of July 12th, raising this to nearly $20 an hour by 2025 – marking the nation’s first minimum pay for such workers.
Cutting-edge AI trained to identify recyclable waste
In response to the escalating waste crisis, innovative AI technology is being utilised to effectively recognise and categorise waste materials for recycling purposes.
Innovative solution alleviates heat strain among women in Indian slums
By coating roofs with white solar reflective paint, this approach significantly curtails the impact of the blistering heat, which can reach temperatures as high as 47.8C (118F) in June – preventing excessive heat infiltration during the hottest months.
US beekeepers stabilise honeybee population despite severe colony losses
The relentless efforts have paid off, allowing them to recover and rebuild the honeybee population at a remarkable pace after experiencing a devastating loss of nearly half of their colonies last year.
Leading the way: four cities prioritising accessibility for disabled travellers
In a world where one in six individuals live with a disability, a growing number of cities are prioritising the needs of disabled travellers, implementing innovative measures to ensure accessibility for all.
