Today on Squirrel News, New York makes fossil fuel companies fund $3 billion annually for climate adaptation, Zanzibari women bring solar power to villages, and a Milwaukee surfer develops a prototype for an eco-friendly surfboard.
New York law makes fossil fuel companies pay for climate damages
New York’s Climate Change Superfund Act will require oil and gas companies to fund $3 billion annually for climate adaptation. The law shifts the cost of climate damages from taxpayers to polluters.
Former coal hub commits to phasing out coal and embracing green energy
Katowice, Poland’s former coal capital, has joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance, pledging to phase out coal power and invest in renewable energy. The city aims to serve as a model for industrial regions transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable development.
‘Solar Mamas’ bring electricity, empowerment to Zanzibar’s villages
The Solar Mamas programme trains women with little formal education to become solar technicians, providing electricity to underserved villages in Zanzibar. By promoting clean energy and breaking down patriarchal norms, the initiative empowers women with skills, income, and leadership roles.
Biden administration cancels student loans for five million borrowers
The Biden administration has forgiven $183 billion in student loans, providing relief to more than five million borrowers through programmes for public servants, defrauded students, and borrowers with disabilities.
Study: Tobacco ad bans cut smoking rates, prevent uptake
A new analysis shows that banning tobacco advertising and sponsorship reduces smoking rates by 20% and lowers the risk of starting smoking by 37%. Researchers urge countries to expand and enforce these bans.
Pongamia tree emerges as a sustainable solution for aviation biofuel
The hardy pongamia tree is being developed as a source of sustainable aviation fuel, offering high oil yields while supporting regenerative agriculture. With projects repurposing degraded lands and creating equitable supply chains, it presents a promising alternative to conventional biofuel crops.
Teen designs Rubik’s cube-inspired tiny homes to address homelessness
Sixteen-year-old Renee Wang developed “Rubix,” a sustainable, off-grid tiny home inspired by LEGO and Rubik’s cubes. Designed to be affordable and easy to replicate, her innovation aims to provide dignified housing for people experiencing homelessness.
Man builds bike-mounted tiny homes to provide shelter for the homeless
A man from Toronto designed insulated, mobile tiny homes that attach to bicycles, offering temporary, weatherproof shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Through his nonprofit, he aims to expand production and replace unsafe tent encampments.
Surfer creates eco-friendly surfboard to reduce plastic waste in waterways
Concerned about the environmental impact of traditional surfboards, a Milwaukee-based surfer designed a board using a jute and palm sheath composite instead of toxic foam and fiberglass.
India’s ancient stepwells restored to tackle water scarcity, boost tourism
Restoration projects across India are reviving historic water reservoirs to address water shortages. Beyond water management, these structures now serve as tourist attractions, community spaces, and sources of local income.