In the latest issue of Squirrel News, discover how France is pioneering world-first laws to tackle fast fashion’s effects, MEPs are endorsing pioneering AI regulations, and a UK study is unveiling a drop in middle-aged cancer fatalities.
France passes first-of-its-kind legislation to curb fast fashion’s impact
France will apply criteria such as volumes of clothes produced and turnover speed of new collections in determining what constitutes fast fashion, according to the law. A surcharge linked to fast fashion’s ecological footprint of €5 (£4.20) an item is planned from next year, rising to €10 by 2030.
MEPs greenlight groundbreaking AI legislation in world first
The European Parliament has approved pioneering legislation aimed at mitigating the risks associated with artificial intelligence. Known as the AI Act, this comprehensive framework categorises AI products based on their risk levels and applies corresponding levels of scrutiny.
Middle-aged cancer mortality plummets: study finds significant decrease in UK
New research conducted by Cancer Research UK suggests a sharp drop in cancer-related deaths among middle-aged individuals in the UK, marking the lowest mortality rates observed in the past 25 years.
New OTC birth control pill in US breaks barriers to safe contraception
Introducing Opill, the first over-the-counter birth control pill in the US, aiming to bridge the gap for individuals encountering hurdles in obtaining prescriptions from healthcare providers. Although the price may remain a hindrance for some, it marks a big step in widening contraceptive accessibility.
Seven times size of Manhattan: the tree-planting project making a change
Thousands of farmers across the African diaspora have been persuaded by the TREES scheme to replace barren monocultures with biodiverse forest gardens.
Workplace advocacy projects empower employees to speak up
The initiatives not only encourage individuals to address misconduct but also enhance the overall work environment, leading to efficiency gains, cost savings – and even saving lives.
In Nigeria’s poorest state, individuals who lack access to the formal justice system are turning to a radio programme to voice their concerns — with real-world outcomes.
A literary journal showcasing the talents of incarcerated individuals across Oregon is giving inmates a chance to express themselves through creative writing. Mimicking the historic postal service of the 19th century, volunteers ferry manuscripts to an editorial team comprised of seasoned writers within the state penitentiary.
The child genius-turned-trailblazer reshaping the tech industry
As a prominent figure in the tech industry, Anne-Marie Imafidon spearheads initiatives aimed at shattering stereotypes and driving innovation in technology.
Green burials emerge as a sustainable alternative to traditional burials
With an estimated 2.4 million deaths occurring annually in the US, the cost of traditional burials has become increasingly high, averaging around $10,000 per service. Beyond the financial strain, the conventional burial process contributes to the depletion of resources and space in cemeteries – but there’s a promising alternative on the horizon.
