We’re starting the week at Squirrel News with the announcement that Paris has made a big reduction in air pollution ahead of the Olympics, Massachusetts’ new tax targeting individuals earning over a million dollars, and positive outcomes from an unusual approach to opioid addiction treatment.
Air pollution in Paris drops by 40% ahead of Olympics
Efforts aimed at promoting alternative transportation have led to a 40% reduction in air pollution over the past ten years, as reported by city officials.
Massachusetts’ millionaire tax to fund public transport and education
Massachusetts voters have approved a new tax targeting individuals with incomes exceeding one million dollars, with the proceeds of this new legislation to fund transport infrastructure, education, and free school meals across the state.
San Francisco credits microdosing for reduced drug deaths
Health officials in San Francisco are attributing their success in reducing drug-related deaths to a pioneering approach: administering small doses of buprenorphine, a medication known to help overcome opioid addiction, within community hospitals.
20% of global electricity generated at summer solstice midday peak
Throughout June, solar power is expected to contribute 8.2% of global electricity, marking its rapid ascent as the fastest-growing source of energy worldwide. China, in particular, has led this charge by increasing its solar capacity by an impressive 152% in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Launched by hand and powered entirely by solar energy, it cruises at a leisurely 40mph high in the atmosphere. This unmanned aircraft sidesteps commercial air routes and turbulent weather – offering a greener and more versatile alternative.
Colorado prisons take step to improve safety and rights for trans women
In a landmark legal agreement, Colorado has committed to providing gender-affirming health care to incarcerated trans women. These women now have the choice to be housed with other women, marking a significant advancement in their rights and safety within the prison system.
Toronto introduces goats to tackle invasive plants in east-end meadow
Toronto is set to introduce prescribed grazing as a sustainable solution to manage invasive plants in the urban meadow ecosystem at DVBP. This marks the city’s debut in employing livestock-powered integrative management tools for environmental conservation.
Revamping libraries: beyond Books to teaching kitchens and woodworking
Libraries across America are embracing innovation to remain relevant in today’s digital age. In Salt Lake City, the main library features a sound booth for recording albums, while in Chicago, vending machines dispense everything from hygiene kits to life-saving Narcan, reflecting a nationwide trend towards reimagining library services.
More than a quarter of the world’s population resides in countries facing water scarcity, and rising water demands are intensifying pressure on this limited resource. From Indian farmers harnessing underground rain storage for crop growth to a US test farm using clay liquid to cultivate vegetables, new solutions are emerging.
Kakhovka region heals one year after disaster, against expert predictions
In June 2023, the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant dam was destroyed, triggering the release of a reservoir – with the resulting floods affecting approximately 16,000 people and submerging around 80 towns in the surrounding areas. Contrary to bleak forecasts, the landscape devastated by the Kakhovka disaster now hosts a thriving willow and poplar forest.
