In today’s issue of Squirrel News, we delve into the eco-friendly transformations happening as a growing number of urban areas opt for greenery over concrete, explore the advancements of robot exoskeletons, and celebrate the dismantling of anti-union legislation in Michigan.
Revitalising urban spaces: the cities replacing concrete with nature
Across the globe, cities are increasingly reclaiming unnecessary expanses of concrete and asphalt, ushering in a transformation where nature flourishes in their stead.
Source: BBC Future
Exoskeleton helps individuals with mobility challenges to walk and stand
The exoskeleton – developed in Italy and known as Twin – aids those who have lost partial or complete use of their legs in their journey towards unassisted mobility, through guided movements and support during rehabilitative therapy.
Source: New Altas
Michigan overturns decades-old ‘right-to-work’ anti-union law
Michigan has become the first state in nearly six decades to dismantle its anti-union legislation – marking a profound shift in the state’s labour policies. Research shows that such laws, aimed at stopping unions, actively contribute to the suppression of workers’ rights.
Source: Truthout
Baltimore secures $18M deal to turn hotels into housing for the homeless
The arrangement involves a nine-month maintenance agreement, during which the current hotel ownership will retain responsibility for day-to-day operations, ensuring the provision of essential services such as housekeeping, 24-hour front desk staffing, and maintenance of facilities.
Source: The Baltimore Banner
Clackamas County surpasses housing targets, sees 65% drop in homelessness
The announcement was made by county officials on Thursday, highlighting the success of their Supportive Housing Services Measure. According to the latest quarterly report, the county has successfully rehoused 314 individuals within a span of six months.
Source: KATU
13-year-old cured of lethal brain cancer in world first
Lucas, a 13-year-old from Belgium, has successfully beaten brainstem glioma – a particularly aggressive form of cancer – thanks to his participation in the BIOMEDE trial in France, which tests potential new drugs for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.
Source: Science Alert
Meet “Future Chicken”: the bird engaging kids in climate conversations
Addressing climate change with children can be challenging . Enter “Future Chicken,” an innovative “eco-tainment platform” developed by Catherine Winder and Annabel Slaight, renowned for their contributions to children’s programming such as “The Big Comfy Couch” and the “Angry Birds” film franchise.
Source: Good Good Good
Barcelona initiative helps individuals with mobility challenges navigate stairs
In Barcelona, a dedicated group has devised a creative solution to assist individuals facing mobility challenges in navigating stairs. Using specially adapted chairs, the charity is able to provide those with limited movement with newfound independence and accessibility.
Source: BBC News
Herd of puppets to trek 20,000km to highlight urgency of climate crisis
The team behind Little Amal puppet hope to create ‘visceral engagement’ with issues caused by climate emergency.
Source: The Guardian
The wildlife thriving alongside humans
From European hamsters thriving in Vienna’s cemeteries to grey Herons setting up homes in Amsterdam, animals are increasingly adapting to life in the fastest-growing habitat on earth – cities.