Positive developments this week: important updates worth highlighting
In a remarkable discovery, the Don Catchment Rivers Trust has confirmed the presence of a wild-born Atlantic salmon in England's River Don near Sheffield. This marks the first evidence of successful spawning on the river since the 18th and 19th centuries. Fish passes have been installed across the Don to reconnect the river and allow salmon to return, with adult salmon being spotted swimming upstream.
Meanwhile, in the realm of renewable energy, the European Hyperloop Center has made significant strides since launching its first test a year ago. Hardt Hyperloop, a key player in the project, recently completed a test at the European Hyperloop Center, reaching a record speed of 85kph and performing a lane switch manoeuvre.
On the health front, a trial involving 3,500 patients with specific genetic mutations found that a daily dose of aspirin can reduce the likelihood of colorectal cancer returning after surgery by 55%. The research suggests that the results could influence treatment guidelines for colon and rectal cancer worldwide.
However, progress in tackling chronic diseases is not uniform across the globe. An analysis led by Imperial College London found that the number of people dying from chronic diseases globally fell in four out of five nations between 2010 and 2019. Notable reductions in deaths from some cancers - including stomach, colorectal, cervical, breast, lung and prostate - also contributed to the fall.
In a stark contrast, the 'electrotech' revolution is pushing fossil fuels into terminal decline, according to the thinktank Ember. By contrast, Ember added, the US is being "leapfrogged" by developing nations, such as Vietnam and Namibia, when it comes to solar's share of the domestic energy mix.
On a positive note for the US, California has passed a bill that will legally define and then ban ultra-processed foods from school dinners. This move is expected to promote healthier eating habits among children.
Elsewhere, China continues to dominate the renewable energy sector. The country accounts for half of global solar panel installations, 60% of electric vehicle sales, and two-thirds of global growth in electricity demand since 2019.
In a commendable initiative, Green energy companies are making significant progress on embedding human rights into their operations, according to a report by the UK-based charity, Business and Human Rights Resource Centre (BHRRC).
Lastly, every family in New Mexico, US, will be eligible for free childcare from November, as announced by state governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. The Iris Prize also awarded $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000 to youth-led projects addressing air pollution in Mongolia, river protection in Mexico, and marine species conservation in the Philippines.
These developments underscore the ongoing advancements in various fields, from environmental conservation to healthcare and renewable energy, highlighting the importance of continued progress and collaboration in these areas.
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