In today’s issue of Squirrel News, we look at how a Norwegian startup are turning desert into farmland through the use of Liquid Nanoclay, the feminist initatives and groups in Egypt that are encouraging women to take to the road on two wheels, and the social cohesion that benefits from mixed-religion football in post-war Iraq.
Turning Dubai’s desert into farmland through Liquid Nanoclay
A Norwegian startup has been growing watermelons, zucchini and pearl millet in arid conditions. The innovative substance boosts water retention and enriches the sandy soils with plant-essential nutrients.
Source: CNN
The two-wheeled revolution for Egypt’s women
The country has only relatively recently witnessed the sight of woman publicly riding motorcycles, but thanks to women-led initiatives, motorcycle clubs, and driving schools, women are beginning to assert themselves on Egypt’s highways.
Source: CNN
Mixed-religion football teams building social cohesion in post-war Iraq
A new study has shown the value of inter-religious mixing over football between Christian and Muslim communities. The study shows the benefit of meaningful social contact in a post-conflict setting – tackling distrust and prejudice.
Source: Phys.org
London bus garage becomes virtual power station
In the world’s largest trial, an electric bus garage will feed electricity back into the national grid, with hopes of rolling it out across the city.
Source: BBC News
Trigger behind locust swarms identified
In an exciting step toward curbing locust plagues, scientists have indentified the pheromone that causes them to swarm.
Source: Reuters
Kenya’s elephants have doubled in numbers in 30 years
Thanks to extensive conservation and anti-poaching efforts, the population of elephants in Kenya has more than doubled to 34,000.
Source: Deutsche Welle
Handmade nest lures golden eagles back to Highlands estate
Pair fledge first chick in Dundreggan for 40 years in eyrie built by conservationist.
Source: The Guardian
The plastic surgeon helping to heal Beirut’s scars
Dr Joe Baroud has been offering free surgery to victims of the explosion in Beirut to help them recover from the trauma the city has suffered.
Source: BBC News
Free nipple tattoos to help breast cancer survivors
A tattoo artist in New York is practicing her nipple tattoos for free on willing clients, to prepare her for helping women after mastectomies.
Source: Upworthy
A taste of honey: how bees mend fences between farmers and elephants
A pioneering method from Africa that protects farms from forest herds is now paying off in India, with more profit and less conflict.