Today at Squirrel News, we’re talking about Australia’s plans to protect more than 52% of its oceans and a remarkable surge in rooftop solar installations in the country, as well as the World Bank’s $90 billion initiative aimed at providing electricity to more than 300 million people across Africa.
Australia to protect 52% of its oceans, more than any other country
The environment minister, Tanya Plibersek, has declared Australia will soon protect more ocean than any other country after the government finalises a more than 300,000 square kilometre expansion of a sub-Antarctic marine park.
Source: The Guardian
Amid Australia’s chaotic climate politics, the rooftop solar boom is a big triumph
It’s difficult to overstate how rapidly Australians have embraced solar power – there’s now more rooftop solar than coal-fired power. The key question is what policymakers can learn from its success.
Source: The Guardian
World Bank launches $90 billion plan to provide electricity to 300 million Africans
A bold initiative aimed at bringing power to more than 300 million people across the African diaspora by 2030 is now in motion, backed by a $30 billion initial investment from the World Bank and the African Development Bank.
Source: Business Insider
Unlikely treatment for meth addiction gains traction
California policymakers are championing an unconventional but effective approach to combat meth and cocaine addiction: offering gift cards as incentives to encourage individuals to remain drug-free.
Source: NPR
The innovations in cardiac care boosting patient survival rates
In cardiac arrest situations, every second counts. Researchers and healthcare professionals are exploring quicker and more effective methods of care delivery, including cutting-edge networked AEDs and various high- and low-tech innovations aimed at improving heart disease treatment.
Source: NPR
How students are revamping America’s schoolyards
For the past three decades, a new initiative has transformed 350 schoolyards nationwide, from empty asphalt to vibrant spaces for education, play, and community engagement. These areas act as essential resources for schools during the day and turn into public parks for the entire community to enjoy in the evenings and on weekends.
Source: Reasons To Be Cheerful
Neighbourly goats: a sustainable approach to community building
A California nonprofit is building community connections by using goat grazing as a strategy to mitigate wildfire risks, support farm-to-school programmes, and much more.
Source: Civil Eats
Can hotels implement wastewater recycling from tourism?
In water-scarce areas of Europe, hotels are exploring different methods to recycle the water used by tourists. The project, spearheaded by the Pyrenees–Mediterranean Euroregion, has spotlighted several promising initiatives hoping to improve water sustainability in the hospitality sector.
Source: Euronews
Turning climate anxiety into positive action
A recent survey suggests that more than half of young adults experience feelings of anxiety, anger, and powerlessness surrounding climate change. However, there are effective strategies to channel that distress into meaningful action.
Source: NPR
Taking a holistic approach to men’s mental and physical health
From a barbershop providing mental health support and guidance to a truck stop offering long-distance drivers meals and essential medical care, a number of services are cropping up across Kenya to help promote men’s health.