Today in Squirrel News, Suriname is certified to be free of malaria; new 3D-printed clay columns based on ancient methods can cool rooms by passive evaporation; and beekeeping workshops improve mental health for teens.
Suriname first country in Amazon region to eliminate malaria
After 70 years of mitigation efforts, Suriname has been declared malaria-free by the World Health Organization. Success is attributed to the targeting of remote mining areas, universal access to expanded diagnostics, and distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito netting.
New invention captures carbon from shipping as it is produced
Shipping is one of the world’s dirtiest industries, accounting for even more greenhouse gases than aviation. Climate tech startup Seabound has developed a simple solution involving quicklime pellets in shipping containers that absorb 78% of carbon and 90% of the highly toxic sulphur produced by shipping exhaust.
3D-printed carbon-free air conditioning inspired by ancient civilisations
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a 3D-printed evaporative cooling system made of hollow clay columns that can cool the surrounding air by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Filled with water and sand, they cool by evaporation when warm air passes through the porous exterior of the clay.
A new paint that “sweats” cools buildings passively
Scientists in Singapore have developed a cement-based paint designed to cool buildings in humid climates by evaporation, much as bodies sweat, as well as by reflecting light. The paint holds water captured from the air surface and releases it slowly over time and, in tests, allowed 30-40% less electricity use for air conditioning.
Vegetable extract removes as much as 90% of microplastics from water
An extract made from okra, fenugreek or both can remove 70-90% of microplastic particles from water depending on water type, making it a viable and biodegradable solution. The sticky, slimy properties of the vegetables attract the plastic bits in oceans, freshwater sources and drinking water.
New consent law in Texas finally closes loopholes that prevent rape enforcement
Named for Summer Willis, who was raped in 2014 and could not prosecute due to big loopholes in current law, the legislation goes into effect in the fall, clearly defining consent, allowing withdrawal of consent and permitting prosecution in cases involving intoxication. Ms Willis is, in the meantime, running 30 marathons before turning 30 to empower herself and raise awareness.
West Virginia is saving its waterways and recovering rare earth minerals
Dozens of clean-up sites are helping West Virginia recover waters poisoned by decades of mining, including one that is separating out rare earth minerals and helping cover the cost of cleanup. Now sensitive aquatic species and water recreation are returning, creating jobs and income for the state.
Restored pre-Incan lagoon system has brought water back to area of Ecuador
In the Paltas in Ecuador, most rainfall comes in spring, leaving the rest of the year dry. After an ancient map and passed-down myth led to the discovery of the Incan water system, a local historian rebuilt the lagoon, successfully storing rainwater for the year. 28 more lagoons were built, and now locals have been able to reforest with native plants.
Indian elephant sculptures reach final stop in LA with message of coexistence
Each a replica of an actual elephant, handmade from invasive grasses by artists that live alongside them, 100 elephant sculptures travelled 5000 miles to reach their final destination in Beverly Hills. They have been spreading a message of peaceful coexistence with wildlife across the US. Sales of the life-sized sculptures will support coexistence and biodiversity projects.
Beekeeping has powerful mental health benefits, healing stress and trauma
Run by a licensed clinical social worker with a background in child and family therapy, the Huneebee Project in Connecticut offers 15-day workshops to foster kids and other teens, helping them build community and develop job skills. Studies show beekeeping helps college students with stress and veterans with PTSD.
