Climate fund for poor countries, Canada gets 988 crisis helpline, UK expands opt-out HIV tests

Leslie Boltron | Posted on December 1, 2023 |

In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we spotlight COP28’s early achievement with a new fund supporting vulnerable nations, Canada’s launch of the 988 suicide crisis helpline, and the UK’s expansion of opt-out HIV testing to more hospitals.

COP28 achieves early milestone with new loss and damage fund

The UN climate summit achieves a significant milestone as nations collectively pledge over $400 million to a newly established fund, aimed at supporting poorer countries facing climate emergencies.

Source: Reuters

Canada launches 988 suicide crisis helpline

Canada introduces the 988 hotline, which provides immediate access to nationwide suicide prevention services, mirroring the 911 emergency system.

Source: CBC

UK expands opt-out HIV testing to more hospitals

The UK government announces a £20m initiative to roll out opt-out HIV, Hepatitis B, and C testing in 46 additional hospitals across England. The move aims to identify otherwise undetected infections.

Source: BBC

Detroit unveils first US road for wireless electric vehicle charging

Detroit introduces the nation’s first road equipped with wireless charging technology for electric vehicles, both in motion and parked, aiming to eliminate the need for regular plug-in charging.

Source: Axios

New geothermal project delivers carbon-free electricity to Google centers

Google collaborates with Fervo Energy on a groundbreaking geothermal project in Nevada, successfully feeding carbon-free electricity to the grid and powering data centers.

Source: AP News

England to expand green spaces with new national park, nature initiatives

As part of its commitment to environmental conservation, England plans to establish a new national park and invest £15m in enhancing protected landscapes.

Source: BBC

Explained: How nature-based solutions can tackle climate change

Emphasising the importance of underutilised nature-based solutions, scientists advocate for strategies like ‘sponge cities’ and tree planting to combat climate change and bolster biodiversity.

Source: The Guardian

Youth councils transform civic engagement in Gonzales City

The city of Gonzales in California has set a benchmark in youth civic participation by establishing influential youth councils, leading to impactful community and policy improvements.

Source: Monterey County Weekly

San Diego’s ‘One Safe Place’ for domestic violence survivors

San Diego County’s One Safe Place provides a centralised hub for domestic violence survivors. It offers streamlined access to essential services including legal aid and mental health support.