In today’s edition, we’re talking about Ireland closing its last coal power plant six months ahead of schedule, Vietnam abolishing the death penalty for a growing number of offenses, and Vatican City’s move to 100% renewable power.
Ireland becomes the sixth European country to end its use of coal
With the shut-down of the Moneypoint coal-fired power plant six months earlier than originally planned, Ireland’s move encourages 23 other countries across Europe having committed to the phaseout of coal.
Vietnam ends death penalty for drug offences, crimes against the state
The country’s National Assembly has unanimously passed an amendment to the Criminal Code. Capital punishment has been officially outlawed for eight serious criminal offences and will be replaced with life imprisonment.
Thanks to solar panels installed on Vatican-owned property outside of Rome, the power generated from these devices is able to supply all of the city’s energy needs.
According to provisional CDC data, the number of fatal overdoses from fentanyl and similar substances stood at 31,000 people under the age of 35 in 2021. Last year that number had almost halved to roughly 16,690.
Dummy eggs and pigeon lofts: how to manage stray animal populations
From abandoned dogs to feral pigeons wreaking havoc, many towns and cities are having to deal with growing stray animal populations. Although they can pose risks to health and safety, a number of creative solutions are helping to avoid human-animal incidents.
Seattle is preserving trees while increasing housing supply
Across the US, cities are struggling to balance the need to preserve and grow trees that help soften the impacts of climate change with the need for more housing – but Seattle might have the answer.
Client advocates are taking a holistic approach to criminal defense
With specialised advocates who take the time to understand the nuances of criminal cases, defendants are being redirected away from prison towards support services and treatment programmes.
Calgary breaks ground on Canada’s first-ever park for seniors with dementia
The park will cater specifically to those living with dementia and have a range of safety and sensory features to support it, including colour-coding, looped walkways, and extra seating for caregivers.
EmpathyLab, a UK-based organisation, aims “to raise an empathy-educated generation” through a simple format: reading. Independent research has shown that this is one of the best ways for children to understand other people’s perspectives.
