In this edition of Squirrel News, we’re starting the week with some big headlines: doctors are trialing the world’s first mRNA vaccine for lung cancer, a huge solar farm project in Australia is moving ahead, and restaurants in the Netherlands are joining the fight against melanoma by installing sunscreen dispensers.
World-first lung cancer vaccine trials launched across seven countries
Doctors have begun trialling the world’s first mRNA lung cancer vaccine in patients, as experts hailed its “groundbreaking” potential to save thousands of lives.
Australian government greenlights world’s largest solar project
A bold plan to construct an enormous solar farm in the remote northern region of Australia, with the goal of transmitting energy via undersea cable to Singapore, has moved forward. On Wednesday, the Australian government granted environmental approval for the AU$30 billion project.
In southern Finland, a wind farm company is taking a unique approach to safeguard endangered birds by using radar to prevent them from crashing into the turbine blades.
Dutch beach restaurants add sunscreen “shots” to menu in fight against cancer
Hospitality venues across the Netherlands are taking part in a new scheme to combat high rates of deadly melanoma. Local authorities, sports clubs and schools have been installing sun cream dispensers in public locations such as beaches and parks to encourage wider use.
Australian workers now have the legal right to disconnect
Australia has just rolled out a new law that grants workers the legal “right to disconnect” from work after hours. This means employees can now ignore unreasonable contact from their employers once their workday is over.
Taiwan bans live shows featuring captive wild animals
Taiwan is putting its foot down on live performances involving captive wild animals. Effective immediately, any shows featuring dolphins, tigers, and other wild creatures will no longer be allowed, thanks to new rules set by the Ministry of Agriculture.
AI and legal aid team up to close the justice gap for low-income Americans
AI tools are expanding the reach of legal aid, making it easier for low-income Americans to access justice. Whether it’s tackling evictions or domestic violence, AI can help clear the bureaucratic hurdles that often slow down legal aid teams.
FTC cracks down on fake reviews and inflated social media clout
The Federal Trade Commission has given the green light to a new rule banning the use of fake reviews – like those created by AI – and other sneaky advertising tactics. This rule also puts the brakes on marketers who try to pump up their influence by buying fake followers or using bots.
Japan turns food waste into pig feed with innovative fermentation technique
An eco-friendly fermentation method in Japan is repurposing edible leftovers and scraps into sustainable pig feed. This approach not only cuts costs and reduces waste but also helps lower emissions.
