In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we look at an innovative breed of wheat that could prevent food shortages, a farm that provides rehabilitative experiences to women after leaving prison, and a project that lends money to families who can’t easily afford solar panels.
Kernza is an experimental strain of wheat that survives drought thanks to its deep roots. The wheat is a perennial developed by a research centre in Kansas and devoted to breeding sturdy crops without genetic engineering.
Farm helps formerly imprisoned women restart their lives and careers
At Benevolence Farm in North Carolina, US, residents are part of a community that supports them through the transition back to life outside of prison. Up to three women at a time live on the farm rent-free, producing and selling food and body care products.
Low interest loans for marginalised families looking to buy solar panels
Despite incentives, solar panels remain out of reach for many low income households as the cost of buying is still too high. A community development nonprofit is changing that by providing loans with favorable conditions such as low interest rates.
Bursting into flower: the growth of sustainable blooms
As awareness grows of the environmental impact of the cut-flower industry, new growers in the UK are selling sustainable blooms straight from their fields.
Environment Committee of EU Parliament urges reduction of biomass burning
In a surprising and unprecedented vote this week, the European Parliament’s Environment Committee recommended the scaling back of the EU’s existing subsidies incentivizing the burning of wood pellets, replacing coal for heat and energy.
Small US cities are joining forces to take carbon out of the atmosphere
In the pursuit of ambitious carbon neutrality goals, cities like Boulder and Flagstaff are facing up against Big Tech and building a local coalition to pool funds for projects to remove carbon from the air.
The trailblazing women in India’s electric vehicle industry
Despite obstacles like discrimination and family duties, many women in India are finding jobs in the electrical engineering sector. Some companies have even set up all-women factory floors.
Bus network in Pakistan takes women to work and school safe from harrassment
Many Pakistani women and girls feel unsafe travelling in public transport as harrassment and assault are common. Now thanks to bus services that have security cameras and guards, women are free to pursue their studies and careers in safety.
The immigrant who rescued Ukrainians trapped in the crossfire of war
Konstantin Gudauskas, an exiled activist from Kazakhstan, risked his life repeatedly and saved 176 people since the start of the war in Ukraine. He was supported by volunteers who provided humanitarian aid and bribes for Russian soldiers to let him pass through checkpoints.
