In today’s edition of Squirrel News, France and Belgium trial a social security programme for food, in Vermont ducks replace pesticides and fertiliser and pen pals help queer prisoners rehabilitate.
France and Belgium trial food ‘social security’ to help people living in poverty
A year-long experiment will follow 400 participants using a ‘social security’ card that can only be used to purchase food. The programme is funded through voluntary community contributions.
Seattle plans to guarantee paid sick leave for delivery workers
Grocery and food delivery workers may soon have access to paid sick leave in Seattle, where currently they are treated as independent contractors. A proposed law would ensure that regardless of employment status.
Spain plans to implement prison sentences against people who mistreat domestic animals. Livestock and wildlife are excluded from this bill but have their own regulatory protections.
The Kansas City Council approved a new ordinance that would fine contractors who remove trees over the course of their work. The fine is based on the size of the tree to ensure the city can have it replaced.
Billions of seeds to be planted as water reservoir is drained
As the Iron Gate Reservoir is drained to restore the Klamath river, conservationists will plant billions of native seeds in the area to restore the wildlife.
A Dubai-based company creates new water retention methods
From a honeycomb-shaped design to ‘magic sand,’ this company is developing tools to help dry areas irrigate the soil, retain water and protect areas from flooding.
A Vermont farm uses an eco-pesticide and fertiliser: ducks
A rice farm uses ducks to help keep the crop safe from weeds and pests. The birds also fertilise the area through their excrement and are much more environmentally friendly than pesticides.
A mobile cancer radiation truck to help rural Missourians
Researchers from the Missouri University of Science and Technology are developing a mobile method to help rural inhabitants from the region who need chemotherapy.
Custom-made museum programmes for people with dementia
Museums around the world are developing programmes designed to specifically help people with depression and other mental issues. For example, their art exhibitions help stabilise levels of cortisol in dementia patients.
Pen pal prison programme found to help LGBTQ2S+ prisoners
A North American programme pairs LGBTQ2S+ prisoners with LGBTQ2S+ people outside to help with communication skills, mental health and, ultimately, rehabilitation.
