Today at Squirrel News, we’re talking about a new series of broad measures to fight microplastics pollution, a constructive approach to helping parents keep their careers on track, and an innovative way of dodging online harassment in China.
EU implements ban on added microplastics in consumer products
The European Commission has enacted a new set of regulations aimed at tackling the pervasive issue of microplastic pollution found in common items – including toothpaste. The new law outlines specific requirements, the timeline for their implementation, and the potential impacts on both industries and consumers.
The rise of job sharing is helping parents keep their careers on track
Job sharing has emerged as an effective means for not only post-parental leave returnees, but anyone looking to work part-time hours within the framework of a full-time role.
A pink dinosaur is the unexpected privacy shield for Chinese youth
In a digital age where online privacy is a growing concern, a new trend has emerged among thousands of young people in China: the alias “Momo.” The pseudonym lets them express themselves more freely online, serving as a defense against harassment and privacy intrusion on platforms like Douban and Xiaohongshu.
New report shows significant drop in young driver fatalities in the US
Since 2003, fatal crashes involving a young driver have plunged by 38%, while deaths of young drivers dropped even more, by about 45%.This remarkable reduction can be attributed to a combination of factors, including shifts in driving habits, technological advancements, and educational efforts.
Automakers embrace carbon-neutral steel to advance green initiatives
To achieve carbon-neutral steel, manufacturers are implementing decarbonisation strategies, including the transition to hydrogen-based steel production. Additionally, they are increasingly adopting renewable energy sources and reducing the ecological footprint of their manufacturing processes.
Progressive initiative in Philadelphia aids addiction recovery behind bars
With addiction affecting over 60% of the U.S. prison population, the correctional facilities in Philadelphia could serve as a promising blueprint for aiding inmates in achieving and maintaining sobriety.
Healing through art behind Connecticut’s prison walls
For more than four decades, the Prison Arts Program has been conducting art classes within Connecticut state prisons. Through this unique approach, the programme helps incarcerated individuals confront their pasts and equip themselves for a future by fostering artistic expression and promoting meaningful conversations.
Across the globe, a number of new initiatives are being launched to help those at risk of suicide get the help they need – from support patrols along Ireland’s River Shannon to proposed legislation in the US letting individuals with mental health challenges to proactively add their names to a do-not-sell list for firearms.
Brazil’s Indigenous communities turn to native beekeeping to boost nature
Across various Brazilian biomes, including the Amazon, the Cerrado, and the Atlantic Forest, Indigenous territories have become hubs for beekeeping initiatives that seek to foster economic sustainability while rejuvenating the surrounding ecosystems.
