Today at Squirrel News, we’re talking about how Northern Europe is stepping up to address the challenge of social isolation, the global energy watchdog’s announcement that the world’s move towards green power sources is “unstoppable”, and the creative ways in which a nonprofit organisation is helping to speed up sustainable solutions to homelessness in Los Angeles.
Addressing social isolation: Northern Europe’s collective effort
A comprehensive pan-European initiative spanning seven countries in Northern Europe is actively combating social isolation through the promotion of inclusion.
IEA reports the the global transition to clean energy is “unstoppable”
The International Energy Agency has released a report predicting a monumental shift towards renewable energy sources, estimating that renewables are poised to contribute to 50% of the world’s electricity supply by the year 2030.
Community solar projects are set to surge in popularity in the UK
Five community energy collectives in England and Wales have joined forces to acquire seven solar farms. This collaboration is poised to catapult the community solar sector, infusing approximately £20 million into local communities and stimulating a 20% expansion.
European Union lawmakers approve significant reduction in pesticide usage
The European Union’s Committee on Environmental Affairs has passed a resolution to establish mandatory objectives aimed at curtailing pesticide usage, with a specific goal of achieving a 50% reduction by the year 2030.
Mauritius abolishes colonial-era law criminalising same-sex relationships
The Mauritian Supreme Court deemed Section 250 of the Mauritian Criminal Code, which had its origins in 1898, as unconstitutional – effectively eliminating the previous threat of imprisonment for up to five years for individuals engaging in same-sex relations.
QR codes featuring neighbourhood-specific recycling guidelines are set to be added to milk cartons, ice cream tubs, and various other items in the US – allowing consumers to scan an item, input their ZIP code, and instantly determine its eligibility for the blue bin.
British company upcycles old refuse trucks into sustainable electric vehicles
Lunaz is leading the charge in the transformation of aging diesel-powered recycling trucks into efficient vehicles. These upcycled EVs not only offer a more eco-friendly solution but also come at a significantly lower cost compared to brand-new electric counterparts.
Mkulima GPT: an AI solution for small-scale farmers
Theofrida Muginga has developed a Swahili chatbot powered by ChatGPT technology – aiming to empower smallholder farmers in Rwanda by identifying crop diseases and delivering culturally-tailored agricultural guidance.
Recovery doulas guide pregnant people battling addiction towards sobriety
A dedicated team of peer support doulas in rural Montana is making a profound impact on pregnant individuals grappling with addiction. These professionals are empowering their patients and newborns to navigate pregnancy while fostering health and sobriety, helping keeping families together.
LA introduces a unique housing initiative to tackle homelessness faster
The nonprofit Brilliant Corners is collaborating with Los Angeles County’s Department of Health Services to establish an innovative approach reminiscent of a real estate agency, specifically tailored to assist the unhoused population.
