Today we’re talking about how the largest animals on Earth are returning to a safe tropical haven decades after being hunted to near extinction, a novel conservation strategy set to help Australia’s iconic marsupial, and an imaging sensor that mimics the visual system of the Papilio butterfly in order to detect cancer cells.
Blue whales return to former whaling zone after being wiped out decades ago
The Earth’s largest creatures are reclaiming their habitat in a region of the Indian Ocean once devastated by whaling activities, according to new research.
Source: BBC News
New air quality forecast aims to mitigate risks of asthma in Ireland
The EPA has developed an online forecast, enabling residents to assess air quality levels in their vicinity. This initiative is geared towards empowering people to strategically plan outdoor activities, reducing potential exposure to subpar air quality.
Source: Euronews
Leveraging butterfly vision for breakthrough cancer detection
An imaging sensor that transcends the limits of human sight by delving into the ultraviolet spectrum is being used by scientists to detect cancer. Using the spectral characteristics of biomedical markers, this cutting-edge technology demonstrates 99% accuracy when distinguishing between cancerous and normal cells.
Source: Eurekalert
Tampon that tests for STIs created by British startup
The gynaecological health startup Daye has launched an STI diagnostic tampon, which uses a polymerase chain reaction test to check for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomonas, mycoplasma and ureaplasma, with the tampon used in place of a swab or speculum.
Source: The Guardian
Toyota SUV adverts banned in UK on environmental grounds
The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority claimed that the Hilux poster and video condone driving that disregards “impact on nature”, setting a precedent for greener advertising transparency.
Source: The Guardian
Sustainable food scoring system proposed by European Union
The proposed requirements are anticipated to come into effect in 2024. With the current proliferation of diverse labels and symbols on food packaging throughout the EU, there is growing apprehension that this multitude of options could confuse consumers and create opportunities for exploitation.
Source: BBC News
Unlocking the potential of wetland ecosystems in wastewater treatment
In the face of escalating challenges posed by the climate crisis and habitat fragmentation, there is a rising appreciation for the efficacy of constructed wetlands as eco-friendly solutions for water purification.
Source: Yes! Magazine
Koala corridors emerge as conservation strategy for Australia’s marsupials
Tree corridors are helping conservations across the country committed to safeguarding the marsupial by maintaining and securing its diminishing habitat.
Source: Reuters
Pop-up cafés tackle food waste, hunger and loneliness in one go
FoodCycle’s temporary cafés not only address the issues of hunger and food waste but also combat loneliness, creating a welcoming space to foster meaningful connections.
Source: Reasons To Be Cheerful
Zimbabwe’s sustainable mine empowers women and preserves the environment
Situated in Karoi, the Zimbaqua aquamarine mine stands out as an all-female workforce-driven initiative that not only ensures fair wages for its employees but also prioritises minimal environmental impact.