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.
How the TREES initiative will help reverse deforestation in Africa
Among the global push for forestry, one African project stands out for its novel approach. Could the Trees for the Future (TREES) effort help to reverse deforestation and desertification? This innovative project, which promotes the conversion of monoculture landscapes into biodiverse forest Read More...
5 essential characteristics of outstanding gardeners
Gardening success is more than just yields; it is a harmonic combination of personal characteristics and horticultural practices. Spring is just around the corner, which means more of us will be getting ready to get back out into our own gardens. To encourage us on this journey, let’s discover Read More...
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 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: 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 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 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 '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 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 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...