In today’s edition of Squirrel News, a cash-for-care initiative has helped enrol over 4.4 million infants in vaccination programmes across northern Nigeria, Norway has officially ended fur farming, and new technology is converting jet engine wind into clean energy.
Cash for care initiative boosts infant vaccination rates in rural Nigeria
A programme offering cash payments to mothers is increasing infant immunisation rates in northern Nigeria, where millions of children remain unvaccinated. By covering transportation costs and providing a bonus for completing vaccination schedules, the initiative has helped enrol over 4.4 million infants in government clinics.
Norway has officially banned fur farming, requiring all remaining farms to close by this month, February 2025, due to animal welfare concerns. The government has allocated over 500 million Norwegian kroner ($50 million) in compensation to help farmers transition to new industries.
New technology uses jet wind to generate clean energy at airports
A new system captures the powerful wind from aircraft takeoffs and converts it into electricity. Dallas Love Field Airport is the first to implement the technology, with strong international interest in expanding its use to make airports more sustainable.
London home wrapped in cork shows how sustainable design cuts energy use
A designer renovated a 1970s home using cork insulation, natural materials, and an air source heat pump to create a fossil fuel-free house. With lower energy bills and a focus on sustainable design, the project is sparking conversations about how small material choices can make homes more eco-friendly.
Hawaii renters work to establish island’s first affordable housing cooperative
A group of renters on Kaua‘i, a Hawaiian island known for its high housing costs, is working to create its first affordable housing cooperative, a model that allows residents to collectively own shares in their building and manage costs together.
Portland’s comeback: New leadership, community-driven initiatives fuel recovery
After years of rising crime and housing costs, Portland is seeing signs of renewal with political reforms, increased affordable housing, and infrastructure investments. A shift toward community-led solutions aims to restore the city’s reputation as a leader in sustainable urban development.
Community radio in Indonesia connects remote villages with news
A volunteer-run radio station in Indonesia’s Riau province is providing vital news, emergency alerts, and conservation information to villages near a Sumatran tiger habitat. The station is bridging communication gaps in areas with little to no phone service.
Free-roaming bison help restore biodiversity in Britain’s woodlands
A pioneering rewilding project in Kent has reintroduced European bison to naturally manage forests, creating diverse habitats for wildlife. Early results show the return of previously extinct species and a healthier ecosystem.
Study: Wolves could help restore Scottish woodlands, store carbon
With no natural predators, Scotland’s red deer population has grown to 400,000, limiting tree growth by overgrazing young saplings. A new study suggests reintroducing wolves could help control deer numbers, allowing native woodlands to regenerate and store up to 1m tonnes of CO2 annually.
Wolves spark dramatic recovery of forests and wildlife in the US
A new study reveals that the return of wolves to Yellowstone National Park in the US has led to a 1,500% increase in streamside tree and shrub growth. By keeping large herbivores like elk in check, wolves have allowed vegetation to recover, improving habitats for birds and other wildlife.
