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.
This design makes social distancing at the park a beautiful thing
As city dwellers have flocked outside during the pandemic, some cities have shut down urban parks because of fears of overcrowding—at a time when people could most use the mental and physical health benefits of green space. A new design, proposed for a vacant lot in the city of Vienna, shows how Read More...
Researchers and wildlife are relishing in the quiet induced by lockdowns
With flights grounded and highways free from rumbling traffic, and a general drop in human activity, the world has gone rather quiet during the last couple of weeks. And while the resulting silence may be eerie for some, it’s an exhilarating phenomenon for others, including researchers and Read More...
New study finds fava beans are a greener substitute for soy
Many vegans and vegetarians swear by soy as a meat-free protein source, but concerns have been raised over the environmental sustainability of soybean farming. With that in mind, new research now suggests that specially-prepared fava beans may be a better alternative. Although some varieties are Read More...
This clothing brand is turning old hotel bed sheets into tailored shirts
Sometimes, being disruptive is fashionable. As for Archivist, a sustainable clothing company, its business plan counts on being disruptive in the name of fashion and corporate responsibility. With this mission, Archivist has found unique yet luxurious inspiration for a new line of tailored shirts Read More...
This software allows anyone to monitor deforestation
Satellites are an excellent tool for monitoring forests. Those who work in the areas of forest management, policy development, and environmental conservation are increasingly making use of these eyes in the sky to track logging, deforestation, and other forest disturbance events. However, it takes Read More...
Earth Day is going digital. Here’s how to join in on the action
April 22nd marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, a yearly event where we celebrate and protect the planet through tree plantings, cleanups, and other in-person community gatherings. The 50th anniversary was bound to be a big celebration of all the progress we’ve made on the climate front, but Read More...
Mountain gorilla numbers are on the rise in East Africa
Good news from the WWF! A new survey that took place in the Virunga mountains of East Africa found that mountain gorilla numbers are growing. The critically endangered animals were once expected to be extinct by the end of the twentieth century, but there is hope the population will continue to Read More...
COVID-19 might just be a blessing in disguise for the pangolin
The pangolin is one of the most fascinating creatures in the world, being the only mammal to also be covered in hard protective scales. Unfortunately, it is these scales that make them a target for poachers, who sell them to be used in Chinese traditional medicine. Their meat is also considered a Read More...
Los Angeles hotels open their doors to the homeless during COVID-19
Communities around the world are under shelter in place orders, but staying home is not an option for homeless populations. A Los Angeles hotel is hoping to protect the health of its community’s most vulnerable residents by opening their doors to those living on the streets. The hotel, which Read More...
Retreating ice in Norway has revealed treasure troves of Viking artifacts
At the Optimist Daily, we’re deeply concerned with global heating and its melting effect on Arctic glaciers. But as a publication that is always willing to see the silver lining in any situation, it’s been fascinating to see what archaeologists discover as the ice retreats. Recently in Read More...