Today on Squirrel News, we explore the US hospitality sector’s wage growth outpacing high earners, solar energy sites boosting insect biodiversity on farmland, and the transformative impact of a school’s smartphone ban.
Hospitality sector leads wage leap in the US
Amidst a transformative era for the US labour market, hospitality workers in 40 states are experiencing unprecedented wage increases, effectively narrowing the long-standing wage gap with high earners.
Source: Stateline
Solar energy sites boost insect biodiversity on restored farmland
A study reveals that solar energy facilities on rehabilitated farmland in Minnesota provide thriving habitats for insects. This approach shows how combining renewable energy development with habitat restoration can simultaneously meet energy needs and conserve biodiversity.
Source: Phys.org
How cities like New York and Paris are redefining urban mobility
Cities worldwide, including New York and Paris, are implementing car-reduction policies to tackle pollution and traffic congestion, facing initial public opposition, but gradually gaining support.
Source: BBC
EU bans greenwashing for consumer protection
The European Parliament has adopted a law banning greenwashing and unsubstantiated environmental claims on products, aiming to protect consumers and promote genuine sustainability.
Source: Euronews
Miami-Dade County eyes 100 electric school buses to improve air quality
Miami-Dade County will improve its school transportation with 50 new electric buses, thanks to a nearly $20 million Environmental Protection Agency grant. This expansion doubles the public school district’s electric bus fleet to 100.
Source: Electrek
Young female founder launches start-up for women’s safety
Founded by 16-year-old Nour Idelbi, Safespace aims to provide a safe journey home for women and girls.
Source: Deutsche Welle
Brazilian footwear industry steps towards eco-friendly practices
Brazil’s large-scale footwear industry, producing 800 million pairs annually, is shifting gears to reduce its carbon footprint by replacing traditional leather with sustainable vegan materials.
Source: Deutsche Welle
German town sets a model for clean energy sharing
In Siegburg, Germany, a citizen energy cooperative aims to lead the way in clean energy sharing. However, to realise this vision, the country must establish conditions that enable energy sharing as an element in the country’s transition to clean energy.
Source: Deutsche Welle
Social media star champions libraries as spaces of belonging and learning
With his engaging online presence, librarian Mychal Threets is reviving interest in reading and highlighting libraries’ crucial role in communities, especially in today’s digital age.
Source: Positive News
What happens when a school bans smartphones? A complete transformation
Teachers say mobile phones make their lives a living hell – so one Massachusetts school barred them.
Source: The Guardian
Global challenges meet hope in Squirrel News
At Squirrel News, we’re redefining the narrative of news media by delivering curated, solutions-focused stories that inspire hope and clarity in addressing global challenges. Our founder, Jonathan Widder, reflects on our journey in the latest issue of Make The World Better Magazine.