In today’s edition of Squirrel News, a new device helps paraplegics regain partial hand control, a historic ruling declares carbon emissions as marine pollutants, and Tennessee is set to become the first US state to give free diapers to families in need.
New device offers hope for paraplegics to regain hand control
A new non-invasive device has enabled over 40 paraplegics to regain partial use of their arms and hands. Developed by a Swiss firm, the device uses electrical currents to stimulate the spinal cord.
In landmark decision, carbon emissions recognised as marine pollutants
The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea has ruled that greenhouse gas emissions are marine pollutants. This historic decision, driven by small island nations, reinforces the legal duty to address climate change and protect oceans.
Tennessee to offer free diapers to families in need
Tennessee will become the first US state to provide up to 100 free diapers per month to qualifying families under its Medicaid programme, aiding parents until their child turns two.
Tamil Nadu uses AI system to prevent elephant deaths on railway tracks
To combat rising elephant fatalities on railway tracks, the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu implemented an AI-based surveillance system. This detects elephants near tracks, alerts officials to slow trains, and has already prevented 400 potential accidents.
Ukraine makes progress in its anti-corruption measures
Ukraine is strengthening its fight against corruption, showing significant progress through anti-corruption institutions and innovative digital platforms like Prozorro.
Living wage programme offers support to US artists
The Artists at Work programme employs US artists, offering them a salary and benefits to collaborate with local organisations and pursue their creative projects.
Cities use infill stations to expand transit access and reduce costs
Atlanta, DC, and the Bay Area are building new stops on existing lines to reach neighborhoods skipped by 1960s planners, serving underserved areas without the high costs of new tracks.
Free clothing swap combats fast fashion waste in Los Angeles
To reduce waste from fast fashion, Jannine Mancilla and Nicole Macias started Radical Clothes Swap in Los Angeles, where people donate their old clothes and take what they need for free.
Zimbabwe entrepreneur turns discarded bananas into valuable products
Small-scale banana farmers in Zimbabwe often discard a third of their harvest due to poor storage and transportation issues. Entrepreneur Bright Nezomba is tackling this problem by converting unsellable bananas into flour, fruit snacks, and dried banana skins.
Indigenous communities conserve forests with native bee farming
Indigenous communities conserve forests with native bee farming Indigenous groups in South America are raising native, stingless bees to combat deforestation and preserve their culture.
