Today on Squirrel News, Scotland aims to become the world’s first ‘rewilding nation’ with bold conservation policies, New Zealand bans greyhound racing, and Sweden unveils an eco-friendly electric ‘flying ferry.’
Scotland and Wales lead Europe’s rewilding movement
Facing severe biodiversity loss, Scotland and Wales are pioneering large-scale rewilding efforts. Scotland aims to become the world’s first official ‘rewilding nation’, while Wales is crowdfunding for its largest ecosystem restoration project.
Citing persistent injuries and deaths among racing greyhounds, New Zealand will phase out greyhound racing over the next 20 months. The plan includes rehoming nearly 3,000 dogs and supporting industry workers in transitioning to new roles.
Sweden’s newest ‘flying ferry’ to run on electric power
Sweden’s new electric hydrofoil ferry can run for 3 hours on a 1-hour charge, making it ideal for rush-hour commutes. Launching in July 2024, it offers an eco-friendly, wave-free alternative to traditional ferries.
New Mexico grants top protection to 250 miles of waterways
Northern New Mexico streams, including parts of the Rio Grande, are now designated as Outstanding National Resource Waters, banning degradation from pollution. The designation boosts state efforts to preserve waterways after federal protections were reduced.
New Jersey enacts law to protect libraries from book bans, censorship
In response to growing censorship in the US, New Jersey has passed a law preventing bans on books in public and school libraries and shielding librarians from legal repercussions.
MIT creates biodegradable microbead alternative for beauty products
MIT researchers have created a biodegradable polymer to replace microplastics in beauty products. The material, designed to degrade into harmless compounds, outperforms traditional microbeads in cleaning and nutrient delivery while reducing environmental harm.
Robots could protect grape crops from fungal diseases
When just 28% of grapes develop downy mildew or powdery mildew, the whole crop is no longer suitable for wine production. The work to treat the crops is labour intensive in the hot sun and it is hard for farmers to stay on top of it. A new kind of robot makes all the difference.
An ‘apple library’ is safeguarding the UK’s rare fruit varieties
With most British apple varieties lost to commercial farming, the National Fruit Collection in Kent preserves over 2,000 heirloom types. This living genetic archive supports research and revives forgotten apple breeds.
Restoring the Aral Sea desert with resilient trees
Decades of environmental damage turned the Aral Sea into a growing desert. Now, ecologists are planting saxaul trees to stabilise the soil, combat toxic dust, and create the foundation for a new, sustainable ecosystem.
Istanbul cafe supports retirees with affordable tea, coffee
Rising inflation in Turkey has made it difficult for many retirees to manage on their pensions. A pensioner’s cafe in Istanbul offers discounted drinks and a place for seniors to connect and socialise.
