A scientist developed a new type of biodegradable plastic that breaks down in soil within six months

Local bookstores reported increased sales of self-help books during the start of the new yearThe university announced a new fellowship program for students researching renewable energy

A strong hailstorm caused damage to cars and roofs in several suburban neighborhoodsResearchers detected methane gas on a distant planet, suggesting possible biological activityThe city introduced a new program to give tax breaks to residents who use public transportation

A well-known director announced plans to film a new movie based on a best-selling novelDoctors advised people with allergies to avoid certain types of pollen during the spring season

The government invested millions of dollars in upgrading the country’s internet infrastructure

A new shopping mall opened with a rooftop amusement park and indoor ice skating rinkThe police department launched a neighborhood watch program to reduce petty crime

A social media platform added a tool that lets users schedule posts for later publicationAn energy company announced it would close two coal-fired power plants and switch to wind energy

A drought in the west led to restrictions on water use for agricultural and residential purposesA study found that children who play outside daily have better eyesight than those who don’t

(责任编辑：Story Highlights)

• ·Researchers studied the effects of climate change on wildlife
• ·A new study showed that reading printed books improves comprehension better than digital devices
• ·A popular restaurant chain said it will expand to 50 new locations nationwide by the end of 2024
• ·A community group organized a fundraiser that collected $6000 to buy new books for a local library
• ·Firefighters use drones to monitor wildfire spread in rural areas
• ·A photographer collaborated with a local business to create a series of promotional photos
• ·The local theater put on a special performance to raise money for a children’s hospital
• ·A hospital opened a new pediatric wing with private rooms for patients and their families
• ·Gardening store offers discount on seeds and tools for spring planting season
• ·A national park started a program to remove invasive plant species that threaten native wildlife habitats
• ·Pharmacy extends hours during flu season to accommodate more patients
• ·Researchers found that walking in forests for 20 minutes a day boosts immune system function
• ·City officials approved a $380 million project to upgrade public transportation including new subway stations and bus routes
• ·A library added a makerspace with 3D printers and craft supplies for community use
• ·A tech company released a new app that helps users learn a new language through games
• ·A local newspaper printed a special section on local history