Today in Squirrel News, “Big Ten” US universities agree to join together in defending against government attacks; three teenagers invent a salt-powered fridge for bringing medical supplies to rural India; and giant sequoia saplings are planted on vacant land to be a “filter forest” in urban Detroit.
In response to potential government attacks on free speech, scientific research, and federal funding, 14 US universities comprising the “Big 10 Alliance” have created a NATO-like agreement where an administrative attack on one would be an attack on all.
Harvard first to stand up to attacks on universities, opening the door for others
Harvard was the first to openly defy measures by the Trump administration to make federal funding to universities contingent on eliminating programmes, such as diversity efforts and threatening free speech. Though attacks have intensified, other universities are now openly speaking in Harvard’s defense and standing up for their rights.
“No Kings” Protests in every US state marked Revolutionary War anniversary
“No Kings” day of protest was organised by a grassroots political group “50501” (50 protests in 50 states, 1 movement). Just over a thousand protests took place across the country Saturday on the 250th anniversary of the first battle in the war for US independence from a British king.
Pro bono legal defense network formed for fired federal workers
A coalition of unions and civil rights groups announced Wednesday the formation of Rise Up, a legal defense network of over 1000 lawyers in 42 states offering pro bono legal help to federal workers targeted by DOGE and the Trump administration.
Charts show clean energy booming with huge gains despite changes in US
Even if gains become slower under the current government, US and global increases in solar energy, wind power, battery capacity, electric vehicle markets, and renewable energy-related jobs have been huge and historic. These 10 charts track this inexorable progress.
Global survey shows sea turtles recovering in over half the world
It has taken decades for conservation efforts, protected status, and bans on capture to show effect, but according to a survey released last week, sea turtle populations are rebounding in over half the locations surveyed worldwide. The turtles are still endangered and experts say continued efforts and use of new technologies are key to continuing the trend.
Indian teens invent fridge powered by salt with no electricity required
Looking for a solution that could safely bring vaccines and medical supplies that require cooling to rural areas in India, three teenagers have come up with a refrigerator that runs on salt. Now they have won the 2025 Earth Prize and $12,500.
89% globally want to fight climate change but think others don’t
A global study across 125 countries found almost everybody wants to do something about climate change and more than half say they would put 1% of their income towards it. The catch is most everyone thinks their friends and neighbours don’t feel the same. Making people aware their views are far from alone could unlock the change so urgently needed.
Athens first micro-forest is planted to help beat the heat
Summer temperatures in Athens frequently top 40°C and the “urban heat island” effect only intensifies that. In an action long overdue according to planners, recently elected mayor Doukas has embarked on an initiative to plant 5000 trees. This micro-forest park in one of Athens’ most dense neighbourhoods is the first step.
Vacant lots on Detroit’s East Side to become giant Sequoia forest
Volunteer arborists are planting saplings from an ancient tree archive in a pilot project in Detroit, “The Giant Sequoia Filter Forest”. Under threat from wildfires in their native California, Detroit could be a safe haven for the giants that could live thousands of years, giving shade and better air quality to the city.
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