Today on Squirrel News, explore how Hopi dry farming grows crops without irrigation, a sponge made of cotton and squid bone could transform the fight against microplastics, and smart AI cameras stop drink-driving before it’s too late.
Growing corn in the desert: Hopi dry farming revives climate-smart traditions
Hopi farmer Michael Kotutwa Johnson uses a 2,000-year-old dry farming method to grow corn and other crops in the desert without irrigation. By teaching the technique to youth and starting a seed bank, he aims to address food insecurity in his community.
Squid-bone, cotton sponge offers solution to microplastic pollution
Chinese researchers have created a low-cost, reusable sponge from squid bone and cotton that removes 99.9% of microplastics from water. Its scalable design offers a promising solution to the global microplastic pollution crisis.
AI camera trial aims to stop drink-driving before it causes harm
Devon and Cornwall are testing a world-first AI camera that identifies impaired drivers by analysing road behaviour, allowing police to intervene before accidents occur. The technology could help reduce fatalities linked to drink-driving.
New tongue-stimulating implant provides breakthrough for sleep apnoea patients
In a UK first, patients with sleep apnoea are receiving a tongue nerve-stimulating implant that helps keep airways open during sleep. This app-controlled device offers an alternative to Cpap machines.
WHO report reveals measures to prevent drowning deaths
A new WHO report reveals that over 300,000 drowning deaths occur annually, but highlights low-cost, community-driven prevention methods that have already reduced drowning rates by 38% since 2000.
As energy blackouts worsen, Ukrainians are turning to solar panels, batteries, and generators to stay powered through the winter. These are driving a growing push for energy independence in homes and businesses.
Federal programme preserves affordable senior housing in Denver
A $5 million grant is transforming a Denver senior housing property with energy-efficient upgrades, ensuring it remains affordable for residents. The programme is part of a nationwide effort to make housing more sustainable and resilient.
Sweden pioneers green steel to cut global carbon emissions
With steel production responsible for 10% of global CO2 emissions, Swedish companies are replacing coal with hydrogen powered by renewable energy to create nearly carbon-free steel.
Gene-editing breakthroughs bring hope for rare genetic disorders
Scientists are developing personalised gene-editing treatments to target rare disorders like PGAP-3 CDG, offering new possibilities for faster and more accessible therapies.
Volunteers build snowdrifts to save endangered Finnish seals
As warming winters melt the snow caves Saimaa ringed seals rely on to raise their pups, volunteers in Finland are building artificial snowdrifts to protect the endangered species.
