In this week’s final edition of Squirrel News, we highlight groundbreaking developments including a major step forward for affordable housing in Philadelphia, the launch of world’s largest air-to-water heat pump in Finland, and record-breaking achievements in global solar energy.
New fabric coating could lower body temperature by up to 8 degrees
As heat waves make spending time outdoors increasingly uncomfortable and risky, scientists have developed an intriguing new solution: clothing that can actively cool the body.
Alaska judge overturns law restricting abortion provision to licensed physicians
A Superior Court judge ruled in favour of Planned Parenthood, stating that prohibiting qualified clinicians, such as nurse practitioners, from performing abortions infringes on equal protection and privacy rights.
Gray wolves thrive in California after near extinction
Once nearly wiped out in California, gray wolves are seeing a big resurgence. The last known wolf in the state was killed in 1924, but since 2011, wolves migrating from Oregon have helped the population rebound. Today, California is home to 44 gray wolves and counting.
Catalonia’s strategy for tackling water shortages without relying on rain
To prevent future severe water shortages, like those experienced over the past four years, Catalonia’s regional government is turning to desalination and circular solutions to ensure water security.
Urban mining: repurposing old materials for sustainable construction
The construction industry is known for its high resource consumption and carbon emissions – but a wealth of reusable materials can be found in existing structures. A recent eco-friendly demolition of a former military base highlights how repurposing materials from old buildings can pave the way for greener, more sustainable construction practices.
The architect excavating the past to build Africa’s future
Mariam Issoufou, one of the continent’s most-sought after designers, draws inspiration from the traditional mud-brick building to create modern, sustainable structures.
From Indonesia to Wisconsin, farmers face a common challenge: battling pests. Identifying where and when these bugs appear can be especially difficult – but Midwest researchers are developing innovative methods to detect pests by tuning into insect sounds.
