Reducing street violence in Chicago, rediscovering “extinct” species, Finland’s 16-year-old PM

| Posted on October 9, 2020 |

Photo: Brad Knight/Unsplash (CCO)

In today’s issue of Squirrel News, we’re talking about a groundbreaking new scheme in Chicago which has led to a 33% reduction in shootings, the innovative eDNA testing method allowing scientists to rediscover species previously thought to be extinct, and Finland’s interesting way of highlighting gender inequality and boosting the prospects of young women.

A new initiative in Chicago’s South Side has reduced street violence by 33%

The program provides economic opportunity for those at risk of becoming involved with gun crime and works to interrupt violence in real time.

Source: The Philadelphia Citizen

Through eDNA testing, species previously thought to be extinct are being rediscovered

The method picks up the traces of environmental DNA that are left behind by living organisms in soil, water and air.

Source: Mongabay

A 16-year-old girl will replace the Finnish prime minister for a day to highlight gender inequality

Climate activist and human rights campaigner Aava Murto took on the role as part of the UN’s Day of the Girl.

Source: BBC News

Somali refugee boxer Ramla Ali is inspiring a new generation of Muslim girls to take up the sport

By encouraging more young women to get involved, Ali hopes to tackle traditional Somalian gender stereotypes.

Source: Africa News

A Swedish grocery store is pricing goods based on their carbon footprint

Each customer is allocated a weekly CO2 budget of 18.9kg, meaning they will have to select their food more carefully.

Source: Inhabitat

The BARBARA Project is transforming food waste into useful raw materials

The agricultural cooperative focuses on the development of new materials from food waste products which, using 3D-printing, can then be used for a wide range of different uses.

Source: Euronews

A network of 7,000 walking routes is encouraging slow travel in the UK

The pathways connect at least 2,500 thousand places and make it easier for people to imagine, plan and navigate journeys.

Source: Euronews

An Indian artist has created a platform offering support for those affected by online abuse in relationships

The forum enables women to share their experiences and combat their perceived powerlessness.

Source: BBC News

The non-profit LGBT Asylum Project is helping non-heteronormative asylum seekers become US citizens

The pro bono service offered by Okan Sengun has a 100% success rate, and is the only support system in place for many LGBT asylum seekers.

Source: LGBTQ Nation

The first non-profit record label for incarcerated persons is highlighting structural racism in the USA

By bringing conversations around social justice to the table, BL Shirelle’s label aims to give a voice to those inside prisons across the country.

Source: Advocate