In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we discover how a non-governmental organisation in Uganda is breaking down barriers for girls in accessing education, an interiors company incorporating the natural world into their boardroom decisions, and how the transformative possibilities of solar power could be key in revolutionising healthcare in less affluent nations.
Bikes are helping girls in rural Uganda get an education
Every year in Uganda, 30,000 girls face the reality of dropping out of school, primarily due to the formidable challenge of accessing education. One organisation is making a impact by equipping these girls with bicycles, ensuring they can overcome the barriers that once hindered their path to education.
Source: Deutsche Welle
Second UK company appoints the natural world onto its board
An interiors company has become the second in the UK to actively involve the natural world in shaping its business strategy, taking environmental impact into account throughout the decision-making process.
Source: Positive News
Solar energy could power all health facilities in poorer countries, saving lives
The move would cost less than $5bn and cut toll of deaths from power outages and lack of supply, Cop28 delegates will hear.
Source: The Guardian
New Jersey mayor adopts strategic approach to end traffic fatalities
In Hoboken, Mayor Ravi Bhalla has spearheaded initiatives to revamp city intersections, implement dedicated bike lanes, and reduce traffic speed. The outcome? Over six years without a single pedestrian fatality.
Source: Bloomberg
Women occupy over half of ministerial roles in Spanish PM’s new cabinet
In the cabinet unveiled on Monday by Spain’s socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, women are set to assume 12 out of the 22 ministerial positions, stating that “the new government is going to have a marked feminist accent” in a win for gender equality.
Source: Euronews
Fewer children in England having teeth out since sugar tax began, study finds
The fall in rotten teeth extractions in children aged 18 and under prompts calls for soft drinks levy to be extended to other products.
Source: The Guardian
Exploring bamboo’s potential impact on construction
With its environmentally friendly attributes, bamboo is emerging as a promising material for reducing the construction industry’s carbon footprint.
Source: BBC News
Irish town’s under-12s smartphone ban sees boost in children’s mental health
In response to growing concerns about the potential adverse effects of smartphone use on children’s mental health, an Irish town started a voluntary pact involving the entire community. After eight months, positive indicators suggest its success, prompting the government to adopt it as a model nationwide.
Source: Positive News
Addressing period poverty through homemade menstrual products
During lockdown, a British student initiated the creation of reusable menstrual pads at home. This endeavor has since evolved into a worldwide initiative known as the Pachamama Project, providing assistance to women experiencing period poverty in regions such as Lebanon.
Source: BBC News
South Africa’s pioneering all-female anti-poaching squad: The Black Mambas
Since 2013, this trailblazing group has made a huge mark on local wildlife conservation. Their efforts, including the removal of snares and traps, have seen a big reduction in overall poaching and a total eradication of rhino poaching in the reserve they protect.