Today on Local Matters, we explore the challenges parents face in finding family-friendly cafés in Luxembourg. Hear from Cecile, who created a new label certifying child-welcoming spaces, and visit Florence Café in the Gare area, one of the certified spots hosting an event for new moms this afternoon.
Blaž Mencinger (Balkan Express 175)
Blaž Mencinger started out as a guitarist in a jazz band. Which is about as weird a career move as you can make in Slovenia. I mean, jazz bands are literally nothing short of an expensive hobby. But by late 2020, he was already making a name for himself as a singer/songwriter.
Local Luxembourg Artists Band Together To Raise Money For Ukraine
Win unique prizes and support Ukraine! The Tombola organized by Gudde Wellen and LUkraine, with over 40 prizes donated by local artists promises that money from every ticket helps fund emergency vehicles for Ukraine.
What's right: maternity leave for Belgian sex workers
Belgium leads the way in labor rights by granting sex workers maternity leave, pensions, and formal contracts under a groundbreaking new law.
Mariahpocalypse 2024 (Top of the EU Pops 02-12-24)
And do it begins. This December was not two days old when Germany already did the deed and put Mariah Carey atop its music chart with that tune from Love Actually. All I want for Christmas is a quick and merciful end to Mariahpocalypse 2024.
What's right: Australia's social media ban
Australia has passed a law banning social media for children under 16, sparking debate over mental health, privacy, and youth access to support networks.
What's right: Nanobots fighting cancer
Swedish researchers have developed cancer-fighting nanobots that target tumors with precision, offering a promising alternative to traditional treatments with fewer side effects.
What's right: cash for the homeless
UK researchers are testing whether cash transfers can more effectively reduce homelessness than traditional aid in a groundbreaking large-scale study.
What's right: Redefining economic growth
The UK is redefining economic growth with Gross Inclusive Income (GII), a new measure that includes sustainability, well being, and non-monetary factors beyond traditional GDP.
Jon's gig guide for the week ahead
Another busy week in Luxembourg, find out more here!
10 Year Celebration for Important Local Venue
De Gudde Wëllen is turning 10 in style with a weekend of club nights and concerts!
IMS- Leading the Sustainability Movement in Luxembourg
Representing nearly 25% of Luxembourg's workforce, IMS ( Inspire More Sustainability) is recognized for its impact on uniting companies in Luxembourg around sustainable development. They foster collaborations among economic actors through impactful projects and open dialogue with private, public, and associative stakeholders. Listen to the interview with Sophie Öberg, their Deputy Director.
Reconnecting People and Nature for a Better Tomorrow with CELL
Citizens for Ecological Learning and Living is a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering sustainable lifestyles and environmental awareness. Through education, advocacy, and hands-on initiatives, they empower individuals and communities to reconnect with nature, adopt eco-friendly practices, and champion the health of the planet.
What's right: Norway apologizes to Sami people
Norway’s parliament has apologized to the Sami for decades of forced assimilation, marking a historic step. Alongside the apology, new measures will protect Sami culture, language, and land rights. While welcomed by the Sami, critics question economic impacts, and implementation remains under scrutiny. Get all the details on today’s “What’s right with the world”.
Does Gladiator II live up to the Original?
Jerome is not completely won over by the new Gladiator film but praises the visuals.
What's right: Paris protects babies from pollution
Paris is launching an inspiring initiative to support new parents and protect babies from pollution. Starting mid-2025, eco-friendly gift bags will be provided, including stainless steel baby cups, wooden toys, reusable cotton wipes, and non-toxic cleaning items. This effort aims to give infants a healthier start in life while promoting sustainable practices
What's right: no more cracks in concrete?
A research team at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia has combined civil engineering and their wish to cut back on textile waste by using textile waste and carpet fibres to create sustainable concrete. Their approach not only diverts clothing and carpet waste from landfills — which is urgently needed when it’s estimated that the world produces 92 million tons of textile waste every year — but it also makes for stronger concrete, reducing early-age shrinkage cracking in concrete by up to 30%.
This week's gig guide with Jon
Jon’s weekly gig guide recommending the best of another busy week in the Grand Duchy!
We STEM: empowering women in STEM
WeSTEM+ builds on the foundation laid by Girls in Tech Luxembourg, is focusing to encompass a broader range of STEM disciplines for everybody. Through technical programs, mentorship, workshops, and networking events, they strive to inspire and support the next generation of STEM leaders. Listen to the interview to find out more.
What's right: Young Scientist Challenge
A fourteen-year-old has won the 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Sirish Subash created a device called Pestiscand. It is a handheld device for at-home use to detect pesticide residue on produce without damaging the food. It measures the wavelength of light reflecting off of fruits and vegetables and uses a machine-learning model to analyse the data. Users download a phone app, point Pestiscand at the produce, tap the scan button and voilà, they see if their apple or spinach needs another rinse.