Today on Squirrel News, US communities adopt disaster-proof microgrids using renewable energy and battery storage, solar farms embrace sheep grazing to cut emissions and costs, and prisons in the Netherlands and Sweden reduce reoffending with mental health-focused reintegration programmes.
Communities turn to green microgrids for disaster-proof energy
As natural disasters increasingly disrupt the power grid, microgrids offer a reliable, sustainable solution. By combining renewable energy with battery storage, places like Blue Lake Rancheria are keeping the lights on during crises while cutting emissions – a model spreading in the US.
Solar farms across the US are turning to sheep for cost-effective land maintenance, reducing reliance on gas-powered mowers. This growing practice, known as solar grazing, is revitalising struggling sheep farms while supporting the clean energy boom.
Massachusetts bans use of wild animals in circuses
Massachusetts has banned the use of wild animals, including elephants, tigers, and primates, in traveling circuses, citing abuse and harmful conditions. The new law imposes fines of $500 to $10,000 per animal.
Biden reduces nonviolent drug sentences to address disparities
During his last days in office, US President Joe Biden reduced the sentences of nearly 2,500 individuals convicted of nonviolent drug offenses, citing the need to address sentencing disparities and correct outdated punishments.
UK’s most powerful supercomputer uses AI to develop life-saving treatments
The Isambard-AI supercomputer in Bristol is advancing vaccines and treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer by simulating drug interactions. Its efficient design could save lives while repurposing waste heat to warm nearby homes.
New procedure targets kidney nerves to treat severe high blood pressure
For patients whose high blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite medication, a new FDA-approved procedure called renal denervation disrupts overactive kidney nerves to lower blood pressure.
New health tech focuses on prevention with innovative monitoring tools
Cutting-edge devices are transforming health management by prioritising prevention. Among them are a ‘hormometer’ that measures hormones like cortisol and progesterone, and a non-invasive glucose monitor that uses light instead of needles.
New sign language terms make climate change accessible to the deaf community
To ensure the deaf community can fully engage in discussions on the climate crisis, experts at the University of Edinburgh have developed 400 new signs in British Sign Language. These signs aim to simplify complex terms like greenhouse gases and carbon offsetting.
Italian climate researcher wins settlement after being fired for refusing to fly
Dr. Gianluca Grimalda, an Italian climate researcher, won compensation after being dismissed for refusing to fly to reduce emissions. His case is inspiring discussions about protecting employees’ rights to align professional obligations with climate-conscious principles.
Some prisons cut reoffending rates with mental health-focused approach
While prisons in many countries struggle with overcrowding and high recidivism, some European countries are reducing reoffending. Approaches in the Netherlands and Sweden focus on addressing root causes of crime, maintaining family connections, and preparing inmates for successful reentry.