Each week, we scour the worlds of innovation, tech for good and social impact to bring you seven of our top stories…

1. Packaging leader ‘DS Smith’ is exploring the possibility of using seaweed fibres in packaging products like cartons and cardboard trays to meet the rising demand for sustainable goods.
2. A US science institute is close to achieving its goal of harnessing nuclear fusion, which could help provide a limitless and renewable source of electrical energy.
3. ‘Moderna’ has launched human trials for two new HIV vaccines, using the mRNA technology that helped develop the Covid-19 jab.
4. A pilot programme launching shared bank branches in Cambuslang and Rochford, two communities where all bank branches closed, has been extended until April 2023 granting banks an opportunity to further innovate the shared bank hub model.
5. NHS England has committed to directing 900,000 people to social prescribing channels by 2024, the medical practice of prescribing social solutions like community engagement to help patients instead of prescribing pills.
6. Through partnering with digital wealth manager ‘Nutmeg’, John Lewis has launched their first investment products line including a general investment account, stocks, and shares.
7. A new sanitary pad washing kit has been developed to help 60% of female refugees living in camps who suffer from period poverty problems due to limited funds. The kit contains a cleaning container made from recycled steel, baking soda, and a reusable menstruation pad made from bamboo terry fabric.