In this week’s final edition of Squirrel News, we’re exploring how bridge RNAs are offering new opportunities within genome design, Sierra Leone’s new legislation outlawing child marriage, and the Pope announcing an ambitious solar plant project in Vatican City.
Within a cluster of mobile genetic elements, researchers at Arc Institute have uncovered an RNA-guided system. This new discovery has the potential to facilitate modular and programmable DNA insertions, excisions, and inversions.
Sierra Leone passes landmark law banning child marriage
According to UNICEF, one-third of girls in this West African country are married before they turn 18. The new law makes it illegal to marry girls under the age of 18 and imposes prison sentences of up to 15 years for violators.
The Vatican has announced plans to install solar panels on its property outside Rome. The initiative aims to generate enough power to meet all of Vatican City’s energy requirements.
Renewable energy makes up majority of EU electricity supply in 2023
Renewable energy sources took centre stage in the EU’s electricity production last year, accounting for 44.7% and generating 1.21 million GWh. This marks a 12.4% increase from 2022, driven by rapid installations of new solar and wind projects across the bloc.
Michigan aids worker transition amid expanding clean energy sector
As Michigan moves towards 100% clean energy and automakers pivot to electric vehicles, a new office within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is focusing on initiatives to support workers transitioning from fossil fuel-related jobs to roles in renewable energy.
UK poised for its most ethnically diverse parliament yet
The upcoming July 4 election is anticipated to usher in a historic milestone in parliamentary representation – with approximately 14% of lawmakers coming from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Seaweed emerges as a natural solution to climate challenges
Seaweed can play a crucial role in combating climate change by reducing our dependence on fertilisers and curbing methane emissions from livestock. However, a new material derived from seaweed sugars could offer a biodegradable substitute for the millions of tons of single-use plastic discarded annually.
Crowdsourced data rediscovers 126 ‘lost’ bird species
While some birds, such as the Dodo and the passenger pigeon, are widely known for their extinction, preventing other species from meeting the same fate is a big challenge. A first step in this effort is locating bird species that are “lost to science” – those not seen or documented in over a decade but potentially still surviving.
The football clubs helping migrants make a new home in Spain
Every year thousands arrive from South America and Africa, including many young asylum seekers who find hope and opportunity in the game. Many of them have joined football clubs formed in Spain’s towns and cities with the aim of giving migrants a chance to flourish in their new homes.
