Today at Squirrel News, we’re exploring how incarcerated individuals can prepare for post-prison careers with VR training, the launch of Google’s natural disaster-predicting Flood Hub, and new legislation requiring major businesses to disclose their carbon emissions in the fight against climate change.
In preparation for post-prison careers, inmates embrace virtual reality training
Launched in 2017, Transfr provides VR careers training in underserved communities in diverse settings where traditional, hands-on skill development can be elusive – such as state correctional institutions – where participants fight fires, fix cars, and work in hospitals, all in VR .
Google launches Flood Hub, offers river flooding forecasts and evacuation alerts
Predicting river floods with precision was once considered nearly impossible – but Google’s new venture is changing this. By combining machine learning and an intricate knowledge of topography, soil composition, and anticipated water inflow during storms, Flood Hub could emerge as a lifesaving tool.
California mandates carbon emission disclosure from corporations
With the escalating urgency of combatting climate change, substantial pressure is mounting on corporate behemoths to provide transparent accounts of their emissions. The new law compels industry giants like Apple and Disney to publicly report their carbon emissions.
California launches Ebony Alert initiative to locate missing Black children
Prevailing data underscores the grim reality that when non-white individuals go missing, they often receive disproportionately less media coverage and fewer resources from law enforcement compared to their white counterparts. Ebony Alert aims to change that.
Promising results emerge in pursuit of sustainable solutions for clothing waste
Although natural fibres like cotton and wool eventually break down, synthetic materials are non-biodegradable, lying in landfills for centuries. A US-based scientific organisation is actively researching a natural process for the rapid decomposition of waste polyester and nylon – with exciting results.
US issues first fine for space debris in watershed moment
In a groundbreaking move, the US government has imposed its inaugural fine on Dish Network, holding the company accountable for the presence of space debris in Earth’s orbit.
New Jersey breaks ground with the first office for climate education
The office of Climate Education sets out to enhance climate literacy and environmental consciousness among students and educators throughout the state.
Financial literacy classes gain traction in more US states
In an educational shift towards practical life skills, many states are introducing financial literacy courses, with the potential to yield significant benefits for students grappling with mathematics.
Animal personality tests inform wildlife population recovery
A growing number of conservation programmes aimed at reintroducing locally extinct animals are being significantly bolstered by the incorporation of personality tests, which shed light on the behaviour and tendencies of the released individuals.
6,000 miles away, Logan Botanic Garden is safeguarding Vietnam’s plant life
Although the landscapes of south-west Scotland and the remote corners of north-west Vietnam may seem worlds apart, Logan Botanic Garden is emerging as a vital ally in preserving the rich biodiversity found in the Hoang Lien mountain range.
