In Brief – October 2023
The world’s first ‘green container ship’ fuelled by methane from food waste and landfill waste has docked in Felixstowe, England. Maersk, the logistics company behind the success of this ship, has 24 additional methanol-powered ships scheduled for delivery by 2027 as part of its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
Iraq has become the 17th country to eliminate trachoma, the leading infectious cause of blindness globally. Improvements in sanitation helped Iraq defeat the disease, which is endemic in parts of Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Conservation group African Parks has acquired the world’s largest private rhino farm, home to a significant portion of the remaining white rhino population. They plan to release 2,000 captive white rhinos, along with their offspring, into secure locations across Africa, in a major effort to rewild these endangered animals.
Taiwan is addressing period poverty by dedicating a NT$100 million (£2.5 million) package to offer free menstrual products in schools and universities, benefiting 95,000 students, with a focus on those from low-income background. Furthermore, public venues such as libraries, museums and art centres in major cities will provide these products.
Japan Airlines (JAL) has introduced a trial clothing rental service called “Any Wear, Anywhere” for arriving passengers, allowing them to rent clothing in advance and avoid the need for checked luggage. This initiative also lightens the aircraft, helping to save on fuel and emissions, thus contributing to lower carbon emissions for JAL.
