Good News Corner

New Poll Reveals Pandemic Has Piqued Childrens' Interest in STEM Careers

According to a UK survey of 1,000 children aged 11-17, frontline workers are inspiring the next generation to seek a career in the scientific and medical fields. 

83% of children have learned about the pandemic via the news, and two-thirds admitted to feeling inspired by the courageous acts of those working as nurses, doctors and vaccine administrators. 48% said they would consider a career in the STEM sector, in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Surprisingly, 55% of children were more likely to recognise the name of Chief Medical Advisor to the UK, Chris Whitty, than those of some popular football stars and American TV celebrities. 

Fishing Trawler Found Drifting in Irish Sea is Towed to Safety

A fishing vessel 'Magan D' has been towed to Dún Laoghaire harbour after it experienced engine trouble and spent 5 days drifting in the Irish Sea. The UK-registered, Spanish-owned vessel had a crew of 15 who first reported issues on March 3rd when they discovered that water had mixed with their engine oil, damaging the motor. 

A tow was organised on Friday and the Irish tugboat 'Trojan' was deployed to bring the trawler to Dún Laoghaire. The crew are now awaiting inspections and the go-ahead to return to their port in Pasajes, Northern Spain. 

South Australia Achieves 'World First' with Solar Grid That Meets 100% of Demand

For a certain period last October, South Australia managed to meet 100% of the demand for solar energy, due to the increasing market share of wind and rooftop panels reducing strain on the utility grid.

The state also reported the lowest wholesale electricity prices in Australia in December, despite the words of critics who said that greater reliance on solar energy would only drive the price up. 

It's promising news for the reliability of renewable energy, and for hopes that in the near future, grids in the Northern hemisphere may be able to mimic the scale and capabilities of the South Australian one.