From Mexico’s decrimininalisation of abortion to an AI-powered healing app, here’s our recap of the best and most exciting constructive stories from September 2023.
In a historic decision, Mexico’s Supreme Court has taken a significant step towards reproductive rights by decriminalising abortion, placing Mexico in line with a growing movement advocating for accessible abortion options, often referred to as the “green wave”.
After languishing in the legislative pipeline since its proposal in 1996, the Women’s Quota Bill, which aims to reserve one-third of parliamentary and state assembly seats for women, has finally gained significant traction and near-unanimous approval.
Sponsor an ocean: Niue’s unique plan to safeguard its pacific paradise
The Pacific island’s objective is to generate more than $18 million in funds by offering individuals the chance to protect 250 acres of ocean for a duration of 20 years – establishing a marine protected area to combat threats like illegal fishing and plastic pollution.
Scottish researchers unveil groundbreaking palm oil alternative
A team of researchers from Queen Margaret University has made a new discovery in the realm of sustainable food production – a 100% plant-based ingredient, known as PALM-ALT – that boasts an impressive 70% reduction in harm caused to the environment.
California to boost school safety funding while raising taxes on firearms
Governor Gavin Newsom of California has ushered in a new law aimed at bolstering security measures in public schools and supporting violence prevention initiatives.
California passes groundbreaking right-to-repair legislation
California’s new right-to-repair legislation is making waves by significantly extending the duration during which companies must make repair materials accessible to consumers – guaranteeing seven years of parts for your phone.
Scotland to pioneer four-day work week for civil servants in UK first
Spearheaded by First Minister Humza Yousaf, the pilot project comes after similar initiatives have shown promise in enhancing staff retention and reducing costs.
Wales lowers urban speed limit to 20mph in UK first
Welsh authorities argue that this new speed restriction will not only contribute to a decrease in fatalities and noise levels but also promote active transportation methods such as walking and cycling.
New South Wales’ logging ban to provide sanctuary for Koalas
New South Wales, Australia, has imposed a logging ban in an 8,400-hectare forest, home to 106 vital ‘koala hubs,’ aiming to protect these marsupials from extinction.
Babcock Ranch: Florida’s first hurricane-proof community
The new-build town faced its inaugural trial when Hurricane Ian swept through the area. Remarkably, the community emerged from the tempest with minimal damage.
Sea-weeding’ programme sees astonishing 600% coral regrowth
Citizen scientists join forces in an Earthwatch Institute initiative, to remove damaging macroalgae from coral reefs. The results offer hope for the restoration of degraded reefs worldwide.
With support from the South African government and conservation groups, African Parks aims to reintroduce farmed rhinos into the wild over the next decade.
Lithuania bans fur farming, implements compensation for farmers effective 2027
The proposal to amend the Law on Welfare and Protection of Animals garnered significant support, with 68 Members of Parliament voting in favour, while 25 opposed it, and 15 abstained from voting. This progressive measure signals a significant shift in animal welfare practices within Lithuania.
Oregon launches first licensed psilocybin service centre
Epic Healing Eugene is America’s first licenced psilocybin clinic. Customers can’t buy mushrooms to go, but they must undergo a preparation session with a licenced facilitator who can deny high-risk users.
NYC’s ‘Smart Curbs’ programme to address congestion
The plan would immediately benefit inhabitants by reducing urban congestion, increasing air quality, and improving the quality of life in residential neighbourhoods such as the Upper West Side.
Public health improves after shutdown of Pittsburgh coal processing plant
Following the closure of the plant, ACCAN – an environmental advocacy group – took the initiative to conduct retrospective health studies, with research revealing a 41.6% decrease in uncontrolled pediatric asthma cases within two years after the closure.
Female-modelled crash test dummy aims to boost car safety for women
Traditionally, crash test dummies used in safety tests have been designed to mimic average male bodies – which might explain why women are 73% more prone to frontal road collision injuries. Now researchers have unveiled the SET 50F, a prototype crafted to replicate the female physique.
Illinois unveils state’s first foster home for LGBTQ+ teens
This state-funded haven led by the non-profit organisation Lawrence Hall signifies a significant stride toward fostering acceptance and support within the foster care system, with child advocates applauding this development.
The Goodwill Excel Center: a high school for dropouts
Through a carefully tailored approach that encompasses on-site childcare and academic coaching, the centre provides adults with a second opportunity to attain that coveted diploma.
Documentary-style videos emerge as a powerful tool for mitigating sentences
Individuals facing criminal accusations are increasingly utilising concise documentary-style videos, aiming to provide judges, juries, and prosecutors with the full scope of their humanity – making a case for redemption and, in some cases, leniency in sentencing.
A Bangladeshi madrassa is a safe space for Dhaka’s transgender community
In a move once thought to be unthinkable in religious spheres, the Islamic school has opened its doors to transgender individuals – offering a space for education and understanding in a traditionally more conservative society.
In a region grappling with illiteracy, the Daariz mobile app is changing lives. With over 410,000 users in the Horn of Africa, it offers education, hope, and opportunities.
Empowering Zimbabwean women through weekly savings clubs
Members contribute small sums of money – such as $5 or $10 per week – which are then pooled together, with each participant having the opportunity to borrow from this communal fund commonly referred to as “mukando”.
Peer-to-peer lending transforms lives in rural India with human-centric approach
In regions where access to traditional financial institutions remains limited or inaccessible to most, peer-to-peer lending is emerging as a powerful tool for breaking free from years of debt.
The app employs AI to propose tailored mindfulness exercises in response to individuals’ emotional states, using an algorithm capable of discerning one’s emotions solely from their voice, irrespective of the spoken language or words used.
Safety through basketball: Philly’s new approach to combat gun violence
In her captivating documentary titled “Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia,” filmmaker Kyra Knox explores the inventive initiatives within Philadelphia communities that are tackling the issue of gun violence head-on.
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