In our last full edition of 2023, we’re talking about the southern French city of Montpellier becoming the latest European metropolis to allow all its residents to ride public transport for free, NYC council voting to ban most instances of solitary confinement in city jails, and how solid state batteries could be a gamechanger in the electric car industry.
French city of Montpellier makes public transport free for all residents
Visitors and tourists will still have to pay 1.60 euro per trip as southern French city becomes latest in Europe to make bus and tram rides free for locals.
New York City council votes to ban solitary confinement in jails
The measure was passed on Wednesday with enough votes to override any potential veto from Mayor Eric Adams, marking a big win for human rights activists and inmates alike.
Solid state batteries could be a game changer for electric cars
After years of research, Toyota says it is ready to move into the mass production phase of solid state batteries for electric cars. With much longer battery life, better safety and a cheaper, more environmentally friendly production process, these batteries could revolutionise the industry.
STI morning-after pill significantly lowers the chance of contracting disease
The idea behind Doxy-PEP is that an individual will take 200 milligrams of doxycycline up to 72 hours after exposure to prevent them from developing a sexually transmitted infection.
From sea to plate…to sea? Hong Kong puts oyster shells to a new use
Discarded shells from restaurants and hotels are being used to restore damaged oyster ecosystems, promote biodiversity and lower pollution in the city’s bays.
Scientists find process to remove ammonia from livestock manure
Ammonia in manure creates nitrous oxide which is a greenhouse gas and pollutes the soil. This electro-chemical process is cost-effective and also creates hydrogen for fuel.
Digital connection has improved mental and physical health for migrant workers
An internet service for seasonal farm workers set up by the North Carolina Farmer Health Program lets workers connect with friends, family and health services. It is making all the difference.
In Kenya orphaned baby elephants are getting back to the wild
A programme in Northern Kenya has been successfully reintroducing abandoned and orphaned baby elephants to the wild even as drought conditions have slowed down the process.
