November, 2020 | The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News

NASA: Nitrogen dioxide levels dropped 20% since the pandemic began

Human activity strayed far from the norm this year as the coronavirus pandemic forced many countries to effectively shut down. Now, many months after the first countries went into lockdown, scientists from NASA have gaged just how much pollution levels have dropped due to Covid-related declines in Read More...

Cotton candy machines could help prevent the spread of COVID-19

Since the start of the pandemic, N95 respirators have been touted as the gold-standard for face masks. One of the main strengths of these masks is that they feature an electrocharged filter that attracts and holds viruses, preventing them from passing through. But while they provide the best Read More...

4 ways to alleviate loneliness even when you’re alone

We would love it if all our readers could be in the company of their loved ones this holiday season, but with the coronavirus continuing to surge, we know that’s not exactly a possibility for everyone. That, sadly enough, opens the door to loneliness. While we cannot help you bring the family Read More...

Dad raises more than £20k for charity by drawing quirky portraits of pets

Making a difference through art doesn’t always require the hand of a fine artist. At least that’s what a man from south England has recently proved by raising thousands of pounds for charity through his viral amateur drawings of people’s pets. Phil Heckels, 38, was trying to get his Read More...

Communities are filling little free libraries with critical supplies during COVID-19

Little free libraries gained popularity around 2010 as local sources for book sharing. Now, these mini-libraries that are tucked into many neighborhoods are getting new life as sources for supplies during COVID-19. The official Little Free Libraries program started in 2009, and now, in Read More...

Five ways to support your community during COVID-19

Social distancing is one of the best tools we have for slowing the spread of COVID-19, but isolating at home can leave you feeling helpless in a time of community need. So how can you help your community during the outbreak? Here are five ways to help your community while practicing social Read More...

Why community gardens are perfect for cultivating health in your neighborhood

A community garden does much more than just grow local fruits and vegetables. It also activates a public space where members of the community can gather and form meaningful relationships that contribute to a better life. Whether you want to create a community garden or join, here are a few benefits Read More...

Giving: Safe ways you can continue to give back this holiday season

The holiday season is the time we reflect on how lucky we are to have a roof over our head and food on our table, but it is also a time to think about those who have less than us. As we head deeper into the holiday season, we’re sharing ways you can still safely give back to your community at a Read More...