Agreement for climate-neutral shipping, first malaria vaccine for 12 African countries, Ukraine’s hospital train

Leslie Boltron | Posted on July 10, 2023 |

Photo: william william / Unsplash (CC0)

In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re talking about countries committing to climate-neutral shipping, a breakthrough malaria vaccine bringing hope to Africa, and the remarkable impact of Ukraine’s life-saving hospital train.

Countries adopt new greenhouse gas emissions target for shipping

While some criticise the lack of ambition, this commitment marks a significant step towards addressing the industry’s environmental impact and meeting global climate goals.

Source: Reuters

Breakthrough malaria vaccine to be rolled out in 12 African countries

Africa is set to receive the world’s first malaria vaccine, with an initial allocation of 18 million doses over the next two years. The vaccine, deemed safe and effective, holds the potential to save numerous lives.

Source: The Guardian

‘Revolutionary’ solar power cell innovations break key energy threshold

Next generation cells surpass the limits of today’s cells and will accelerate the rollout of cheaper, more efficient solar power.

Source: The Guardian

Latvia swears in Edgars Rinkevics as EU’s first openly gay president

Edgars Rinkevics takes office as Latvia’s president, marking a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation. With his longstanding advocacy for equal rights, Rinkevics aims to bring hope for greater inclusivity.

Source: BBC

Arizona expands access to over-the-counter contraceptives

Arizona takes bold action to enhance reproductive healthcare in Arizona, allowing adults to obtain contraceptive medications without a doctor’s prescription.

Source: AP News

Germany wants to ban smoking in cars with children, pregnant women

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach pushes for a ban on smoking in vehicles carrying minors and pregnant women, aiming to protect this vulnerable group from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

Source: Deutsche Welle

Villagers turn to charcoal made from bamboo to save a protected forest

To reduce their dependency on the forest, local communities are planting the versatile bamboo species from Asia to make charcoal and restore watersheds.

Source: Mongabay

Sounds of the soil: A new tool for conservation?

Researchers are discovering that listening to the soil can be a way to understand biodiversity belowground without having to overturn every bit of the land.

Source: Mongabay

Caste out: how Kerala’s food parcel scheme tackles poverty and prejudice

In India’s most progressive state, food for hospital patients and visitors feeds the hungry and helps create an ‘ethos of equality’.

Source: The Guardian

How Ukraine’s hospital train saved thousands of lives

As the first of its kind operating in a war zone, this innovative solution has transported thousands of patients. The train’s medical staff not only provide vital care but also offer psychological support.