In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re talking about how Italy’s textile hub is leading the way to a responsible closet, how a rural Cambridgeshire village switched en masse to renewable energy, and a unique project providing displaced children with the opportunity to express themselves through photography.
Italy’s pioneering “textile town” is paving the way to sustainable fashion
As the world seeks sustainable alternatives, Prato serves as an example of how age-old traditions can lead the way to a responsible and eco-friendly closet, one that honors its historical roots while shaping a more sustainable future for fashion.
Source: Euronews
Britain’s first heat pump village sets the blueprint for zero-carbon energy
Driven by their determination to embrace sustainability, residents embarked on a mission to establish their own zero-carbon heat network – harnessing the power of 100 colossal boreholes, tapping into the Earth’s natural resources to generate heat.
Source: Positive News
Refugee-run repair centres are making Amsterdam one of the first circular cities
The centres, spearheaded by refugees, are making significant strides in transforming the fashion industry and contributing to the circular city initiative and breathing new life into old clothes, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Source: Positive News
Colombian Amazon sees 26% reduction in deforestation
Since the initiation of permanent peace negotiations with FARC rebels under Colombia’s first-ever left-wing presidential administration, the impact on the country’s forests – once ravaged by conflict – are now experiencing a significant drop in deforestation rates.
Source: Good News Network
“People will do drugs. Why not minimise the damage?”: The charity caring for tripped-out ravers
PsyCare UK has taken a pragmatic approach to minimise the potential harm. The organisation provides essential services like hydration support and therapeutic colouring books to those who may have overindulged in psychedelic substances.
Source: The Guardian
Bridging prejudice in conflict: the impact of contact between diverse groups
A recent study suggests that even amidst challenging circumstances, fostering interactions between different communities can lead to a positive transformation in attitudes.
Source: Greater Good Magazine
Crowdfunded wells transform lives in Senegal’s arid lands
Drawing on the power of the internet, builder and fundraiser Mamadou Diakhate initiated crowdfunding campaigns, inviting people to contribute funds to construct much-needed wells in water-scarce communities.
Source: Reuters
UEFA encourages sustainable and low-carbon travel for Euro 2024 teams
Rather than opting for flights between matches during the group stage, teams will be expected to choose more eco-friendly alternatives such as coach or train travel.
Source: BBC News
Creative thinking to combat invasive species is restoring ecological balance
The unchecked spread of invasive plants and animals can wreak havoc on local environments – but a number of innovative solutions are emerging.
Source: BBC News
Empowering refugee children through art and a travelling darkroom
This innovative project offers young individuals a platform to express themselves through the art of photography, enabling them to share the realities of their lives with the rest of the world.