Today at Squirrel News, we’re talking about a groundbreaking sustainable alternative to deforestation-fuelling palm oil, a smartphone app developed by a school shooting survivor to help children heal from traumatic experiences, and Niue’s innovative plan to protect its slice of the Pacific.
Scottish researchers unveil groundbreaking palm oil alternative
A team of researchers from Queen Margaret University has made a new discovery in the realm of sustainable food production – a 100% plant-based ingredient, known as PALM-ALT – that boasts an impressive 70% reduction in harm caused to the environment.
The app employs AI to propose tailored mindfulness exercises in response to individuals’ emotional states, using an algorithm capable of discerning one’s emotions solely from their voice, irrespective of the spoken language or words used.
Sponsor an ocean: Niue’s unique plan to safeguard its pacific paradise
The Pacific island’s objective is to generate more than $18 million in funds by offering individuals the chance to protect 250 acres of ocean for a duration of 20 years – establishing a marine protected area to combat threats like illegal fishing and plastic pollution.
Wales lowers urban speed limit to 20mph in UK first
Welsh authorities argue that this new speed restriction will not only contribute to a decrease in fatalities and noise levels but also promote active transportation methods such as walking and cycling.
Solar panel installation in Arctic archipelago spurs green energy shift
Norway has successfully deployed solar panels in Svalbard, where the sun dips below the horizon from late October to late February. This pilot project has the potential to facilitate the adoption of green energy solutions in isolated Arctic communities.
Bangladesh’s garment industry makes strides in sustainable manufacturing
Since 2009, the nation’s apparel and textile manufacturers have successfully established a record-breaking 202 “eco-friendly” factories, all certified by the prestigious U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), marking the highest number in the world.
Beyond the Troubles: the women building hope along Derry’s peace line
Northern Ireland’s “peace wall” barriers were meant to be taken down this year – but many residents are not ready for their removal. Two young peace builders are working to bridge the divide between the two groups, and hope to gain their consent to remove the walls.
A gamechanging initiative is reviving abandoned homes in Leeds
In leeds, a family becomes homelessness every seven hours, while more than 4,000 properties stand abandoned. A new community benefit society has emerged – pioneering a solution that has the potential to be emulated nationwide.
Beijing adopts vertical and digital cemeteries to conserve space
As Beijing contends with a swiftly aging populace and limited land resources, the city is experimenting with burial sites featuring electronic screens in lieu of traditional headstones.
The Kenyan stargazer bringing astronomy to the people
Susan Murabana’s passion for astronomy was only sparked in her 20s as science was just ‘for boys’. Now she tours Kenya with a telescope on a mission to reveal the cosmos to all children.
