Bowhead whales rebound in the Arctic, AR glasses for firefighters, Bhutan decriminalises homosexuality
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Photo: Rolf Gelpke/Unsplash (CCO)
In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re looking at the recovery of a whale species almost hunted to extinction, an AR helmet that helps firefighters see through smoke, and the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan.
Scientists cheered by bowhead whale recovery despite Arctic warming
In some rare good news from the top of the world, bowhead whale populations have rebounded and are nearing pre-commercial whaling numbers in US waters.
Source: The Guardian
Augmented reality glasses will help firefighters see through smoke
The helmet uses a combination of AR and computer vision to boost situational awareness when lives are on the line.
Source: Forbes
Bhutan’s parliament decriminalises homosexuality
The approval of the bill makes the Himalayan kingdom the latest Asian nation to ease restrictions on same-sex relationships.
Source: CNN
Argentina’s lower house of Congress has approved a bill that would legalise abortion
Considered a win for women’s rights and pro-choice activists, the move marks a step forward for the legalisation of the medical procedure in the traditionally conservative Latin American country.
Source: Thomson Reuters News Foundation
Infrared light is bringing high speed internet to remote communities across Africa
Using towers that can send light beams up to 19 km away, the infrared technology is much safer and more reliable than standard fibre-optic cables.
Source: Goodnet
Cleveland Indians are changing their team’s name after 105 years
The baseball team has been internally discussing a potential name change for months, and have now confirmed their move away from a name that has long been considered racist.
Source: AP News
New York state will end pension fund investments in fossil fuels
Over the next two decades, the state’s entire pension fund will be decarbonised as part of an attempt to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Source: Clean Technica
Recycling existing buildings could help solve the urban housing crisis
By repurposing overlooked structures that were set to be demolished, local administrations could reduce housing insecurity and provide safe accommodation for those in need.
Source: Metropolis
Livestreamed visits to Marrakech’s souks are supporting tour guides and market workers
Like many holiday destinations, Morocco is reeling from the pandemic, but a new online tour is connecting artisans with shoppers – and a bringing glimmer of hope.
Source: The Guardian
A bowling alley on wheels is offering a safe source of entertainment during the pandemic
The Detroit-based rentable bowling alley enables private groups to enjoy themselves responsibly whilst abiding by COVID-19 restrictions.