Today on Squirrel News, we’re exploring the Dominican Republic’s impressive reforestation efforts, Dublin’s strategy to reduce city center traffic and pollution, and a Nigerian school that offers hope and education to survivors of Boko Haram.
Dominican Republic regreens a fifth of its territory in a decade
The Dominican Republic has regenerated 18% of its degraded lands within a decade through community-driven reforestation efforts, enhancing biodiversity despite ongoing challenges from climate change and development pressures.
Source: El Pais
Dublin implements city centre driving ban to combat traffic, pollution
Dublin joins a growing list of European capitals by prohibiting through-traffic in its city centre. The initiative will redirect non-destination traffic to outer beltways, paving the way for pedestrian-friendly zones and a significant 60% reduction in urban traffic.
Source: Bloomberg
UK’s ‘most advanced vertical farm’ opens in Gloucestershire
A pioneering vertical farm has commenced operations in Gloucestershire, marking a significant advancement in the UK’s agricultural technology by offering a faster, eco-friendly method for growing salads.
Source: BBC
NHS to introduce Martha’s Rule to give patients easy access to second opinions
Starting April, NHS hospitals in England will implement “Martha’s rule,” a new initiative funded by the government to provide patients with a straightforward pathway to seek a second medical opinion if their condition worsens.
Source: BBC
EU sets path for carbon removal certification to aid climate goals
The European Union is setting a benchmark for carbon removal technologies with a new certification process, aiming to integrate these solutions into its strategy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Source: The Verge
Washington tribes adopt Icelandic model to address teen drug crisis
In response to the rising opioid crisis among teens, Washington tribal leaders are implementing the Icelandic Prevention Model, a community-based approach proven to drastically reduce substance use among youth in Iceland.
Source: Washington State Standard
Florida’s capital offers transgender safe haven amid state restrictions
In Tallahassee, Florida, a local nonprofit has established a safe house for transgender individuals, providing a much-needed sanctuary amidst increasing state-level restrictions on transgender rights.
Source: Stateline
Vienna’s senior home brews new purpose for elderly residents
A senior home in Vienna launched a microbrewery, transforming its elderly residents into active brewers. This project provides a meaningful pastime and boosts social connections and mental health.
Source: Reasons to be Cheerful
Galápagos tortoises transform island’s landscape to support albatross breeding
The resurgence of giant tortoises on Española Island is fostering an ecological rebirth by maintaining open spaces crucial for the nesting of the critically endangered waved albatross.
Source: BBC
The school helping girls to heal after Boko Haram
The militant group continues to abduct schoolchildren in north-eastern Nigeria, but one school is giving survivors hope of a better life through education.