In this month’s last edition of Squirrel News, we delve into the evolution of the car-free movement in Bogotá, a victory for animal rights activists in Colombia, and the Mekong river’s eco-friendly makeover.
‘The tranquility frees you’: Bogotá, the city that shuts out cars every week
Born out of an anti-car protest in 1974, the Colombian capital closes many roads to cars every Sunday, leaving them free for bikes, skates and pedestrians.
Introduced by the Spanish during colonial times, bullfighting had become a popular tradition in Colombia, drawing thousands of spectators to major bullrings in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Manizales. The ruling is a significant victory for animal rights activists, who have long condemned the practice.
Is a green transition the key to saving the Mekong River?
The Mekong River, Southeast Asia’s longest waterway, is a lifeline for millions of people – but the intense demand for resources and energy threatens its future. Thanks to grassroots organisations taking action, a growing number of sustainable initiatives are providing a glimmer of hope.
Farmfluencers are cultivating sustainability in Vietnam’s rice fields
In Vietnam, where rice production contributes to roughly 15% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions, a movement among farmers is aiming to mitigate the sector’s environmental impact. Through the use and sharing of eco-friendly practices by fellow farmers, a shift towards sustainability is underway.
Long-term study shows drop in regulated contaminants found in Arctic residents
A pollution-monitoring study spanning several decades has revealed a decrease in the presence of regulated contaminants within the bodies of individuals living in the Arctic region.
Bangkok tweaks infrastructure to better serve senior citizens
In Thailand, elderly individuals often face challenges accessing public transportation and healthcare facilities, while green spaces are scarce – but Bangkok is addressing these issues by making a series of senior-friendly infrastructure improvements.
The Michigan project setting the standard for community solar
In L’Anse, Michigan, the successful integration of renewable energy could be used as a model for other regions looking to go green whilst achieving both economic and communal objectives.
Breakthrough pill for postpartum depression reaches patients
Psychiatrists are now prescribing zuranolone, the first medication specifically developed for postpartum depression, following its approval last year. Initial reports suggest it’s proving effective, offering hope to those struggling with the condition.
The school supporting pregnant and parenting teens
On the Washington-Idaho border, one school has adopted a unique approach to address the challenges associated with teen pregnancies – providing day care services, essential baby supplies, and counselling tailored to pregnant and parenting young people.
The chatbots helping neurodiverse kids navigate their diagnosis
Within the neurodiverse community – where access to support can be patchy – innovations like Goblin Tools, a dedicated website and app, are offering bespoke solutions to individual needs.
