In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re talking about using a model of rewilding to reverse the desertification of Egypt’s Sinai region, a startup in Portland mentoring at-risk youth to guide them away from gun violence and crime, and Colorado’s new law hoping to make college applications fairer and more equitable.
Portland startup redirects at-risk youth towards green jobs instead of gangs
Small startup Leaders Become Legends mentor people involved in gun violence and connect them with hiring managers in the green energy industry, such as solar panel installation companies.
Colorado has become the first state to ban legacy college admissions
The move hopes to level the playing field for applicants who don’t have family connections to prestigious universities and academic institutions, whilst also discouraging “admission after donation”.
Exxon board to get its third climate activist member
The announcement of the new board member — who was nominated as part of a grassroots investor campaign — means that a quarter of board members are now climate activists.
Los Angeles trials free public transport for students
By offering fare-free transit to local students, the city hopes to reduce its carbon footprint and tackle the problem of notoriously gridlocked highways.
Louisiana’s coastal communities are taking solutions into their own hands
Using a unique decision-making process spearheaded by those most affected by local flooding, community leaders are hoping to find innovative solutions quickly and efficiently.
“Reef stars” are encouraging new coral growth in Bali’s waters
Over 6,000 hexagonal steel structures have been installed in coral reefs across Bali, with the star bridging gaps in the reef where coral has died and supporting new growth.
Turkish pottery house revives traditional bird-friendly roof tiles
The unique design features a safe space for birds to shelter in, acting as a critical rest stop for the hundreds of migratory bird species who pass through the region annually.