In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we delve into a groundbreaking animal rights declaration spearheaded by Indigenous Pacific leaders, a monumental initiative aiming to reclaim over eight million hectares of land throughout the Mediterranean, and promising advancements in dementia research and diagnosis.
Indigenous Pacific leaders advocate for legal personhood for whales
The Hinemoana Halo Ocean Initiative promotes the legal recognition of whales as persons with inherent rights – such as having a healthy environment to allow the restoration of their populations.
The largest-ever restoration effort spanning the Mediterranean
The initiative, known as the Agadir Commitment, focuses on rejuvenating areas ravaged by wildfires. With a commitment to restoring eight million hectares by 2030, approximately two million hectares have already been saved since 2017 – roughly 500 times the area of Athens.
Amazon deforestation rate slows in Brazil and Colombia
A new report highlights a significant reduction in forest loss in Brazil and Colombia during the years 2022 and 2023. Both nations, boasting vast stretches of the Amazon rainforest, have shown promising progress in combating deforestation.
Toxic chemical releases in the US drop by 21% over a decade
The EPA’s 2022 Toxics Release Inventory National Analysis reveals a notable decline in the release of chemicals from covered facilities between 2013 and 2022. Additionally, air releases saw an even bigger decline of 26%.
Massachusetts leads US in blanket pardons for minor marijuana offenses
Although some have raised concerns about the extent of the pardon’s coverage, questioning whether it adequately addresses the needs of the potentially hundreds of thousands affected by the state’s obsolete marijuana laws, the landmark move marks Massachusetts as the first state to take such a step.
Data indicates improved voting accessibility in the US since 2000
Amidst concerns over the stability of US democracy in recent years, a report released on Tuesday brings a ray of hope to American voters apprehensive about the upcoming 2024 elections. Contrary to fears of increased difficulty in casting ballots, the latest data reveals a positive trend: voting in America has become more accessible over the past two decades.
Thousands to be offered blood tests for dementia in UK trial
Thousands of people across the UK who are worried about their memory will receive blood tests for dementia in two trials that doctors hope will help to revolutionise the low diagnosis rate.
Boop, a new online marketplace, aims to emulate the success of the ‘wonky’ fruit and veg movement in combating food waste by redirecting attention to the beauty industry. With an estimated 90 million beauty products discarded annually in the UK alone, Boop seeks to repurpose these overlooked items and prevent them from ending up in landfills.
Empowering child labourers through night school initiative
In Pakistan, where an estimated 26 million children do not have consistent access to education, a significant portion finds themselves engaged in physical work instead. Amidst this challenge, one individual took a stand to address the issue and offer support.
