In today’s edition of Squirrel News, a $1.6 billion debt-for-nature swap helps conserve the Galapagos Islands, Japan reforms sex crime laws and bans ‘upskirting’ and porch gatherings help fight loneliness in Washington D.C.
Ecuador finds $1.6 billion for conservation efforts
Credit Suisse has bought up $1.6 billion worth of Ecuador’s bonds that the nation will now use to conserve the Galapagos island’s unique wildlife, in the largest debt-for-nature swap yet.
A pharmaceutical trial by Eli Lilly has successfully slowed the growth of Alzheimer’s by clearing amyloid buildup in the brain. Overall, the new drug slows Alzheimer’s by 29% and by 35% in a group, researchers believed more responsive to it.
Japan plans to ban ‘upskirting’ as it overhauls sex crime laws
“Upskirting,” photo voyeurism and the grooming of minors are all going to become crimes in Japan, as the nation adapts its laws around sex crimes. The definition of rape will also be changed and prison sentences introduced for clandestine photography.
New York passes first nationwide ban of gas in new buildings
As of 2026, fossil fuels use for utilities will be prohibited in all new constructions, in an effort to limit the emissions produced by gas stoves, boilers, water heaters and furnaces.
The Build Public Renewables Act will enable the US state to build and purchase renewable energy sources, as part of its bid to generate 70 percent of its electricity from renewables and cut overall greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2030.
A special residence to help single moms get degrees
A housing programme in Indiana helps single mothers with childcare, freeing them up to pursue higher education. The residences operate at a reduced rent and volunteers help with groceries, financial aid programming, and academic coaching.
An Indian village that turned hunters into conservationists
Khonoma in Nagaland has seen traditional hunting practices limited by elders in an effort to help conserve the rich wildlife of the area. Over time, the village council has developed programmes to become fully sustainable and self-sufficient.
PorchFest in Petworth, Washington, D.C. is the center of a movement to bring neighborhoods together to fight loneliness and social isolation. The idea is to simply meet on someone’s porch and have a conversation without an agenda or time limit.
