We know, the information landscape is often dominated by alarming, but unfortunately authentic, news: climate crisis, loss of biodiversity, pollution. It is easy to be overwhelmed by pessimism and the feeling that the future of the planet is doomed. Yet, by observing carefully, we can discover concrete initiatives, courageous choices and stories of resilience that show us how a different future is possible. This year, in particular, we have collected several good news that deserve to be celebrateddemonstrating that the commitment to sustainability and environmental protection is growing throughout the world.
From Africa to Australia, passing through Europe and the United States, here are 12 stories that show us how kindness, ingenuity and love for nature can make a difference. Stories of young activists who clean up cities, of animals who return to populate their habitats, of cities that reinvent themselves in a sustainable way, of students who learn to take care of the Planet.
Let us be inspired by these stories and remember that each of us, in our own small way, can contribute to creating a better future.
The Buz Stop Boys are cleaning up the capital of Ghana
Accra, the capital of Ghana, is facing a major environmental crisis due to plastic pollution. But a group of young activists, the Buz Stop Boys, have decided to roll up their sleeves and set a good example. Armed with gloves and garbage bags, these guys they collect plastic waste daily abandoned on the streets, transforming them into works of art and useful objects. Their initiative not only contributes to making the city cleaner, but also raises awareness in the community about the importance of recycling and environmental protection. An example of how willpower and commitment of young people can make a difference!
Dolphinariums will be banned in Belgium
Finally a victory for the dolphins! Belgium has decided to ban dolphinariums on its territory, recognizing that these intelligent and sensitive animals are not meant to live in captivity. The decision, welcomed with enthusiasm by animal rights associations, represents an important step towards greater awareness and respect for animals. Dolphins, accustomed to traveling long distances in the open sea, suffer enormously in confined, artificial spaces. We hope that this ban is just the beginning of a larger change that will lead to the closure of all dolphinariums around the world.
Australia transforms more than 50% of its oceans into protected areas
Australia is committed to protecting its incredible marine biodiversity. In a historic decision, the government announced the creation of new marine protected areas which will cover over 50% of Australian waters. This measure will help safeguard crucial habitats such as the Great Barrier Reef, threatened by climate change and pollution. An example to follow for all countries in the world, demonstrating that ocean conservation it is essential for the health of our planet. (However, it is important to note that some scientists have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of these new protected areas, as reported in the GreenMe article you linked.)
Indian entrepreneur Jagjit Singh creates free shelters for strays with recycled materials
Jagjit Singh, an Indian entrepreneur with a heart of gold, has found an ingenious and sustainable way to help stray dogs. Use waste materials such as old tires, wood and fabrics to build welcoming and free shelters for homeless four-legged people. A simple but brilliant idea that combines solidarity, recycling and respect for animals. An example of how creativity and commitment can transform problems into opportunities.
In Holland, cities compete to remove tiles and make room for trees (Tegelwippen)
In Holland the “Tegelwippen”a fun competition between cities that compete against each other remove as many tiles as possible to make room for trees and urban greenery. An original initiative that promotes urban reforestation and transforms gray spaces into oases of biodiversity. The benefits are multiple: improvement of air quality, reduction of heat islands, increase in biodiversity and creation of a more welcoming environment for citizens.
Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon has reached its lowest level in nine years
Good news for the green lung of the Planet! Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon has recorded a significant declinereaching its lowest level in nine years. This result is the result of the efforts of the Brazilian government and environmental organizations that fight for forest protection. An important victory in the fight against the climate crisis, which demonstrates how the collaboration and commitment can lead to concrete results.
742 new species of plants and animals have been discovered in the Congo Basin
The Congo Basin, the second largest rainforest in the world, continues to amaze us with its incredible biodiversity. This year they were well discovered 742 new species of plants and animalsincluding monkeys, frogs, snakes and medicinal plants. An extraordinary discovery that reminds us of the importance of protect ecosystems and their wealth. Who knows how many other wonders are still hidden in this treasure chest of biodiversity!
Bison have returned to the prairies of North America
A long overdue return! Bison, once the symbol of the prairies of North America, are returning to populate their natural habitats. Thanks to reintroduction programs and the creation of new protected areas, these majestic animals are slowly regaining their role in the ecosystem. A positive sign for wildlife conservation and an example of how it is possible to restore natural balances.
Berkeley bans factory farming: it is the first city in the world to do so
Berkeley, California, confirms itself as a city at the forefront of animal protection. It is the first city in the world to ban intensive farming on its territory, recognizing the suffering inflicted on animals in industrial farming. A historic decision that promotes a more ethical and sustainable food production model. We hope that other cities will follow Berkeley’s example, helping to create a better future for animals and the planet.
Veganism is studied at school in the UK
In the UK, the veganism becomes part of school curricula. Students will have the opportunity to explore the themes of plant-based nutritiondiscovering the benefits for health, the environment and animals. An important step to educate the new generations to more conscious and sustainable food choices. An example to follow for all countries that want to promote a greener future.
The University of California, San Diego is the first major public university in the US to make climate courses mandatory
The University of California San Diego (UCSD) has made an important decision for the future of the Planet: it has returned climate courses are mandatory for all its students. A laudable initiative that aims to train aware citizens and prepare to face the challenges of the climate crisis. UCSD stands as a model for all universities around the world to follow, demonstrating that education is fundamental to building a sustainable future.
The monk Phra Mahapranom Dhammalankaro and a special “hippo” clean the Bangkok River of plastic (Chao Praya River)
A story that comes from Bangkok and warms the heart. The Buddhist monk Phra Mahapranom Dhammalankaro has found a special ally in his mission clean up the Chao Praya River from plastic: “HIPPO”which stands for High Impact Plastic Pollution remOver, a system developed by the Seven Clean Seas association. HIPPO captures plastic waste that ends up in the water before it can reach the ocean. Using a solar powered conveyor beltHIPPO collects and sorts waste into a hidden container, initially distinguishing recyclable materials from non-recyclable ones. Together, HIPPO and the monk collect the waste floating on the water, giving a concrete example of love for nature and animals. A symbolic image that reminds us how each of us, in our own small way, can contribute to protecting the Planet.
