Circularity
Understanding the value of a circular economy and identifying circular solutions are essential to changing our world for good. Circularity, or the zero-waste principle of keeping materials in a closed loop and away from landfills and incinerators, is the future. Find out about the latest innovations and solutions accelerating the transition towards a circular economy in the articles here from The Optimist Daily.
Kyrgyzstan builds 800,000-hectare ecological corridor to protect mountain biodiversity
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a bold and optimistic move for biodiversity, the Kyrgyz Republic has established a sweeping 800,000-hectare ecological corridor that connects Khan-Tengri National Park and the Naryn Nature Reserve. This new corridor expands the nation’s protected Read More...
Urban mining: how Europe is turning e-waste and concrete into circular gold
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Buried somewhere in your drawer, that outdated smartphone may be worth more than you think. Not because it's vintage, but because it holds slivers of lithium, cobalt, and rare earth metals… the very stuff Europe desperately needs. Urban mining, the Read More...
Solar panels to become standard on new homes in England by 2027 under net zero push
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a major boost to the UK’s net zero goals, the government confirmed that nearly all new homes in England will be built with solar panels by 2027. Under the new policy, housebuilders will be legally required to install rooftop solar as standard during Read More...
How Boise, Idaho is heating hundreds of buildings with clean geothermal energy
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In Boise, Idaho, being in hot water is a good thing — especially when it comes to how the city keeps warm. Home to hundreds of natural hot springs, Boise has tapped into the geothermal potential beneath its feet, creating the largest municipally operated Read More...
Kenya on track for universal electricity access by 2030, powered by clean energy and community reach
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a decade, Kenya has more than doubled its electricity access rate — rising from just 37 percent in 2013 to 79 percent in 2023 — and it's not stopping there. According to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) latest Energy Policy Review, the country Read More...
Butter made from air? This startup is spreading carbon-conscious innovation
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Imagine this: you reach for your morning toast, swipe on a glossy, golden spread, and savor that creamy richness. But surprise — there were no cows, no crops, and definitely no pastures involved. Welcome to the era of butter made from air. This culinary Read More...
Scotland's largest community solar farm moves forward on the Isle of Arran
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A brighter, community-powered future is on the horizon for the Isle of Arran in Scotland. Plans for what will become the country’s largest entirely community-owned solar farm are officially moving ahead, with the Glenkiln solar project recently securing Read More...
Remembering Pope Francis and his profound impact on climate action
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The recent passing of Pope Francis has sparked reflection on his remarkable leadership — not only within the Catholic Church, but also across the global climate movement. Known for his humility, compassion, and commitment to justice, Pope Francis Read More...
Paris curbed cars—and cleared the air: what 20 years of bold green policy achieved
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Paris spent the last two decades reimagining its urban landscape, and the results are not just visible, but breathable. The French capital has replaced car-centric streets with bike lanes and pedestrian zones, added green spaces, and eliminated more than Read More...
New York City begins enforcing mandatory composting to cut waste and emissions
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM New York City officially launched enforcement of its mandatory composting program, making compost separation a requirement for all residents as of April. The city’s goal: reduce landfill waste and curb greenhouse gas emissions by diverting organic matter Read More...