Here are today’s stories of progress in the fight against the climate crisis and nature loss.

🚰 One step closer to PFAS-free water

Researchers have made a major breakthrough that could capture and destroy PFAS in water for good. While other methods to remove these harmful ‘forever chemicals’ create additional waste, this technique – developed by scientists from Rice University in South Korea – works around 100 times faster and is the first sustainable way of truly eliminating the chemicals. It’s hoped it could be applied to cleaning up municipal water supplies and industrial activity.

 🏳️‍⚧️ Looking out for trans people in a disaster

Trans advocate Jasmine McKenzie is providing aid to Black and trans Floridians who may be left behind by official rescue operations in the event of a hurricane. Trans people are more likely to be homeless, live in poverty, and have chronic mental or physical illnesses, factors which make them uniquely vulnerable when disaster strikes. People have also raised concerns about mistreatment from anti-LGBT government officials and religious organisations who act as responders. So, McKenzie’s project is stepping in to connect Black, trans, and gender non-conforming people with shelter, resources, and community. 

🛳️ A new-old technique for cutting carbon at sea

Spinning towers, known as Flettner rotors, were first installed on ships 100 years ago but failed to hit the mainstream. Now, as the shipping industry looks for ways to decarbonise, the technology may be ready to take centre stage. The rotors harness the energy of the wind and use it to propel the ship forward, reducing the amount of fuel needed by up to 20%.

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📝 The Green Light is written by freelance writer Molly Millar.