In the final edition before the weekend, we’re exploring how the small Pacific island nation of Vanuatu slashed plastic, new research stating that 80% of the world’s population supports stronger climate action, and the return of the European lynx thanks to conservation measures.
How the small Pacific island nation of Vanuatu drastically cut plastic pollution
Once plagued by rubbish-filled lagoons, Vanuatu faced intense pressure from its concerned community, prompting the government to ban specific single-use plastics. In the six years since, the results have been impressive.
80% of the world’s population want stronger climate action, says new study
The survey carried out jointly by the UN Development Program, Oxford University, and GeoPoll suggests that momentum is gathering in support of action on climate policy – with the number rising to 89% in regions historically most affected by extreme weather.
European lynx population bounces back from brink of extinction
The European lynx, native to remote regions of Spain and Portugal, has made a remarkable recovery from near extinction. Since the beginning of the millennium, the adult population of this species has increased more than tenfold thanks to conservation measures.
Ecuadorian cloud forest thrives after being granted legal personhood
This protection – which shields the region from deforestation and mining -– stems from Ecuador’s historic 2008 constitutional amendment, the first of its kind to grant nature the same rights as humans.
Using mosquitoes to save Hawaii’s endangered birds
Traditionally, conservation methods such as tree planting and breeding programs have been used to protect endangered birds. However, a novel approach has emerged: the release of millions of sterile mosquitoes into the wild.
Biannual HIV prevention shot proves 100% effective in late-stage trial
None of the roughly 2,000 women in the trial who received the lenacapavir shot had contracted HIV by an interim analysis, prompting the independent data monitoring committee to recommend Gilead unblind the Phase 3 trial and offer the treatment to everyone in the study.
Power ships can provide the spark Africa needs to beat energy challenges
Across Africa, unreliable electricity supplies cause significant socio-economic setbacks. Countries like Ghana are now exploring power ships as a potential temporary remedy for their energy woes.
Asian American farm collective targets food insecurity: ‘It’s been really healing’
By connecting Asian American communities with Asian-owned small-scale farms, Choy Commons is building a new kind of supply chain “from the ground up” while reviving an agricultural legacy.
New Zealand Opera to provide braille surtitles for live performances
Opera companies around the world regularly use surtitles to give audiences a deeper understanding of what is being said or sung on stage in real time, without the need for audio descriptions which can interfere with the music.
In one of São Paulo’s most notorious districts – known locally as Cracolandia – thousands of addicts live in the open air. Help is coming in an unlikely form: a psychiatrist who dresses up as a clown.
