We’re kicking off the week at Squirrel News talking about the decrease in natural disaster fatalities worldwide over the past century, the US taking steps to close the ‘gun show loophole’ that allows firearms sales without background checks, and how India’s ‘right to life’ legislation now includes protection against climate change.
Natural disaster death toll drops sharply worldwide over past century
From the 1960s onward, the frequency of natural disasters has surged, attributed mainly to escalating sea levels and a gradual rise in global temperatures. However, the world’s collective response to disasters has markedly improved, leading to a significant decline in fatalities.
US to close loophole that allows gun sales without background checks
The notorious “gun show loophole” allows the sale of thousands of firearms without stringent federal background checks. Under new laws, approximately 23,000 vendors will be reclassified as licensed firearms dealers, subjecting gun sales at shows and online platforms to thorough background checks.
India’s ‘right to life’ to include protection against climate change
In a prominent ruling on environmental issues, the Supreme Court of India has extended the interpretation of an individual’s “right to life” to encompass safeguarding against the adversities of climate change.
Polish MPs vote to move forward with legislation to lift near-total abortion ban
Poland’s current abortion legislation permits termination only in cases of rape, incest, or when a woman’s health or life is at risk. However, on Friday, the lower house of parliament, the Sejm, voted to advance four bills and establish a commission to further deliberate on proposals aimed at easing the strict regulations.
Dimming Texas’ skyscrapers: a measure to protect billions of birds
Every spring, Texas becomes a vital migratory flyway for approximately two billion birds – but brightly illuminated buildings present a significant threat to their safety, increasing the risk of fatal collisions. By dimming the lights at night, countless avian lives could be spared.
Community peacemaking: a key to forest preservation in the Amazon Basin
Brazil and Colombia are showing tangible progress in slowing deforestation rates in the Amazon River basin. Recent data from the University of Maryland reveals remarkable reductions of 36% and 49% in deforestation rates between 2022 and 2023 in Brazil and Colombia, respectively.
As climate change continues to threaten coffee production, a growing number of startups are turning to unconventional ingredients like date seeds and chickpeas as potential substitutes.
Offline ticket sales aim to combat exploitation in live music scene
Ticket prices have surged by 34% since 2018 across the globe – largely due to scalpers, resellers, and fees from platforms like Ticketmaster. Artists are taking a stand by offering tickets directly to fans in-person, bypassing digital queues and financial strains associated with corporate ticket-selling platforms.
A West Virginia’s coal region’s clean energy makeover
A coalition is spearheading an initiative to transform abandoned coal mines in West Virginia into hubs of clean energy production. The project not only aims to harness renewable energy sources but also seeks to support local communities in transitioning to a diversified economy beyond coal.
For many adults facing shame or stigma surrounding their illiteracy, turning to unconventional methods is becoming more and more common. One of the most unexpected allies? TikTok.
