Today’s Solutions: March 19, 2024

Environment

Need some good news about the environment? The Optimist Daily is your go-to herald of positive environmental news, highlighting eco-friendly solutions and scientific progress around climate action, circularity, conservation, and more. Learn about everything eco in our Environment section.

The surprising human-like inte

The surprising human-like intelligence of the humble bee

In the wonderful world of bumblebees, a stunning discovery calls into question the idea that intelligence is entirely determined by brain size. These tiny insects, with brains the size of a seed, have astounded scientists by exhibiting a degree of collective intelligence previously thought to be Read More...

National Park Service bans com

National Park Service bans commercial air tours over Bandelier National Monument

The National Park Service (NPS) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a ban on commercial air tours over Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico, intending to preserve the park's serene natural landscape and cultural heritage. This decision is part of a larger effort to reduce Read More...

Toronto’s skyline soars:

Toronto's skyline soars: return of bald eagles signal urban environmental victory

It is a momentous occasion for the Canadian city of Toronto, as it welcomes a pair of bald eagles nesting for the first time in recorded history, highlighting the city's growing environmental commitment. Karen McDonald from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority notes, "These eagles are Read More...

Arizona’s new Chief Heat

Arizona's new Chief Heat Officer to address and manage soaring temperatures

In reaction to the searing temperatures and the warmest year on record, Arizona's Department of Health Services named Dr. Eugene Livar its Chief Heat Officer. Dr. Livar, a physician and former assistant director for public health preparation, offers important experience to the position, having Read More...

The European Parliament passes

The European Parliament passes incredible bill that criminalizes ecosystem destruction

In a historic act, the European Union has criminalized serious incidents of environmental degradation, setting a global precedent. This innovative law, dubbed "comparable to ecocide," seeks to address ecosystem degradation, illicit logging, and habitat loss through enhanced penalties and prison Read More...

The surprising benefits of 

The surprising benefits of 'awe walks' for your health and well-being

In a world full of wonders, explore the unexpected joy and well-being that awe walks may provide. Let us begin on an exploratory journey inspired by the findings of Virginia Sturm, Ph.D. and associate professor of neurology and psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of California, Read More...

Bangladesh court takes a stand

Bangladesh court takes a stand against elephant cruelty, banning wild adoptions

On February 25, a Bangladeshi court made a landmark decision prohibiting the adoption of wild elephants. Animal rights organizations have welcomed this judgment as a "landmark" step toward ending cruelty to Asian elephants. Suspending licenses: a necessary step Rights organizations celebrate the Read More...

The Dominican Republic refores

The Dominican Republic reforests a fifth of the country in just 10 years

In the heart of the Dominican Republic, the dramatic story of land reclamation unfolds. Carlos Rodríguez, a diligent farmer, thinks about the once barren acres he managed for decades. Today, the hill is ornamented with cedars, Creole pines, and cypresses, demonstrating the effectiveness of Yaque Read More...

Kenyan artists transform disca

Kenyan artists transform discarded flip-flops into vibrant sculptures

On the shores of Kenya, where waves weave tales of the sea, a remarkable story unfolds—a story of resilience and creativity. This is the journey of Ocean Sole, a company that doesn't just clean beaches; it turns beach trash into vibrant, soulful sculptures that bring life and joy to local Read More...

This interesting fern converts

This interesting fern converts dead leaves into roots for survival

In the deep canopy of Panama's Quebrada Chorro forest, an unusual survival strategy has been discovered in a tree fern called Cyathea rojasiana. In a world where adaptation is the key to survival, this fern takes an unconventional approach by transforming its deceased fronds into a lifeline.  A Read More...