In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re talking about a state in India that has hit their target of 100% organic farming, a new app developed to bridge the knowledge gap in neonatal care for non-white babies, and a new cervical cancer treatment regime that reduces the risk of mortality from the disease by 40%.
Around 52% of agricultural land is facing moderate to severe degradation, mostly due to practices like monoculture, chemical pesticide and fertiliser use, as well as excessive groundwater extraction. A complete overhaul of agricultural practices is no easy feat – but the Indian state of Sikkim has done just that thanks to a gradual and practical approach.
Student’s app closes knowledge gap in neonatal care for non-white infants
Ruby Jackson, a 23-year-old student midwife, has launched an app designed to educate users about the symptoms of maternal and neonatal conditions on black and brown skin. “Melanatal” hopes to address the lack of awareness surrounding how these issues manifest in non-white individuals.
New cervical cancer treatment regime ‘cuts risk of dying from disease by 40%’
Doctors are hailing a “remarkable” new treatment regime for cervical cancer that reduces the risk of dying by 40%, in the biggest advance against the disease in 25 years.
Union representation petitions surge, marking first increase since the 1970s
The number of petitions filed by workers seeking union representation has surged during President Joe Biden’s administration, according to new data. In 2024, there were 3,286 petitions submitted – a big increase from 1,638 in 2021. This reflects a growing demand for collective bargaining power and better labour conditions and working rights.
New scheme helps grandparents raising children impacted by addiction
A pilot programme in Alabama will allocate $280,000 from opioid settlement funds to assist “grandfamilies”: grandparents who have stepped in to raise children affected by the opioid epidemic.
Following Germany’s innovative model, South Carolina has allowed inmates to create their own living spaces, establish house rules, and resolve conflicts among themselves, with prison guards acting in the role of counsellors.
Exploring the untapped potential of geothermal energy
Less than 1% of the world’s energy comes from geothermal sources – but new solutions are emerging. A team in Iceland is hoping to improve geothermal power by drilling directly into volcanic magma, and in Germany, Vulcan Energy is integrating geothermal energy with the extraction of lithium.
News outlet starts conversation on disability representation in media
By having individuals with learning disabilities conduct interviews with politicians and other influential figures, TV BRA in Norway hopes to reshape public perceptions of these conditions.
