In the latest update from Squirrel News, we highlight the launch of the largest solar-plus-storage project in the United States, discuss the upcoming prohibition of disposable vapes in the UK, and shed light on the growing trend of intergenerational tutoring spreading across US schools.
Massive solar-plus-storage project goes live in California, sets new US record
California has recently activated the largest solar-plus-storage project in the United States, featuring an impressive array of nearly 2 million solar panels, over 120,000 batteries, and a substantial capacity for clean energy generation.
Source: Canary Media
UK government to ban disposable vapes to safeguard children’s health
Alongside the ban, comprehensive measures will be implemented to curb the marketing of vaping products to children and to combat underage sales.
Source: BBC News
Lagos State in Nigeria implements immediate ban on single-use plastic
Lagos State, home to Nigeria’s largest city with a population of 15.4 million, has officially prohibited the use of single-use plastics and styrofoam. The state government announced the immediate implementation of the ban, though experts caution that enforcing and implementing the measure may present challenges.
Source: Ecowatch
France implements mandatory composting
Supported by the government’s Green Fund, municipalities are now tasked with ensuring residents have accessible means to segregate bio-waste such as food scraps, vegetable peels, expired food, and garden waste.
Source: Euronews
Endangered butterflies to make a comeback along California coastline
A four-year plan aims to reintroduce the Behren’s silverspot butterfly to the Northern California coast. Facilitated by a $1.5 million grant from the State of California Wildlife Conservation Board, the Mendocino Land Trust is gearing up to sow 35,000 early blue violets – the only plant the caterpillar form of these vibrant orange butterflies can eat.
Source: Good News Network
3D-printed homes in Maine designed for recyclability
A colossal 3D printer is transforming renewable materials into eco-friendly homes that not only prioritise affordability but also contribute to carbon sequestration.
Source: Reasons To Be Cheerful
New rule in Türkiye allows women to keep their surnames after marriage
As of January 28th, the constitutional court has lifted the restriction preventing women from keeping their own surnames after marriage.
Source: Duvar English
The benefits of intergenerational tutoring in US schools
Managed by the Oasis Institute, a nonprofit based in St. Louis dedicated to enhancing healthy aging through community engagement and ongoing education, this initiative pairs volunteers with students for weekly sessions lasting 30-45 minutes.
Source: Reasons To Be Cheerful
Mindfulness lessons via loudspeaker support students coping with trauma
The approach involves the use of Inner Explorer, a daily mindfulness program designed specifically for schools. This app introduces students to daily lessons focusing on the observation of sensations and emotions.
Source: NPR
Valencia takes centre stage as European Green Capital 2024
As major European cities engage in friendly competition to adopt clean energy practices, enhance nature conservation, and elevate residents’ quality of life, Valencia aims to showcase its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.