Andorra legalises same-sex marriage, plastic-eating bug discovered, reforesting ancient US woodlands

Photo: Cris Tagupa/Unsplash

In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re talking about the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Andorra, the discovery of a bug which feasts on hard-to-recycle and toxic plastic, and reforestation efforts in one of the most ancient forests in the United States.

Andorra has become the 27th UN member state to legalise same-sex marriage

The tiny country’s new legislation is set to come into force within a matter of months, and is being hailed as a breakthrough for LGBT+ rights.

Source: Thomson Reuters Foundation

Scientists have discovered a bug which feasts on toxic plastics that are difficult to recycle

The bacterium can safely break down polyurethane, acting as an invaluable biocatalyst in the fight against plastic pollution.

Source: The Guardian

US national park workers are repopulating one of Montana’s most ancient forests with pine seedlings

The slow-growing whitebark pine acts as a lifeline for many birds and small mammals, with hundreds planted through this new initiative.

Source: Yes Magazine

Environmental scientists are increasing insect populations by redefining the traditional US front lawn as bio-reserves

Front lawns offer few environmental benefits, with their maintenance producing more greenhouse gases than they can absorb – but eco-designers are addressing this issue.

Source: CNN

Japan Airlines have stated female flight attendants are no longer required to wear mandatory skirts and high heels

Feminist activists are celebrating the decision, which comes as a result of the long-fought #KuToo campaign.

Source: Thomson Reuters Foundation

Australia is helping Indonesia tackle gender inequality through its support of women’s civil society organisations

Funding through international aid programs fuels support for conversations around traditional gender roles and breaks down barriers social norms.

Source: Global Citizen

Scientists are close to using artificial photosynthesis to generate renewable energy from CO2 in our atmosphere

The energy harnessed from the process of artificial photosynthesis could be a huge step in slowing climate change.

Source: Inhabitat

A rise in the number of Taiwanese activists proves younger generations are determined to protect democracy

Younger generations are becoming more politically active in fresh attempts to defend the island’s freedoms.

Source: Al Jazeera

A ten-year-old child in Kerala has built a robot which automatically dispenses hand sanitiser

The machine was built with an ultra sensor, an arm processor and Lego, and offers the potential to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Source: The Better India

A prototype of spring powered shoes which might help humans run more than 50% faster is in development

The shoes could increase the amount of energy a person’s legs generate whilst running by up to 76%.

Source: New Scientist

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