Policy Making
Strong public policy leads to more cohesive, resilient, and sustainable societies. In this section, find out about the latest legislations from around the world aimed at making our world a better place.
New Jersey takes bold step toward universal free preschool and kindergarten
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM New Jersey is ushering in a new era for early childhood education. In a move celebrated by parents, educators, and advocates alike, Governor Phil Murphy signed three pivotal bills into law on July 9, advancing the state toward a future where every child has Read More...
Lisbon leads Europe with first citywide reusable cup system
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Lisbon has just taken a big, refreshing step toward sustainability, perfectly timed for Plastic Free July. With the launch of a citywide reusable cup system, it becomes the first European capital to implement a deposit-and-return scheme designed to reduce Read More...
Mexico bans dolphin shows in historic vote to protect marine mammals
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a landmark move for animal welfare, the Mexican Senate voted unanimously to ban dolphin and other marine mammal shows across the country. The decision, passed 99 to 0 on June 23, marks the culmination of a years-long campaign led by activists, researchers, Read More...
Could a flight tax help fix the climate finance gap?
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Air travel is often seen as a symbol of freedom and prosperity. But while it represents convenience for some, for the planet’s climate, it comes at a steep price. Aviation accounts for more than two percent of global greenhouse gas emissions—and that Read More...
MPs vote to decriminalize abortion in England and Wales in historic victory for women’s rights
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM British lawmakers have voted to decriminalize abortion, ending the threat of prosecution for women who terminate pregnancies outside legal parameters. The amendment to the government’s crime and policing bill represents the most significant change to Read More...
New rules allow thousands more Australians to donate plasma, regardless of sexuality
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a historic shift for both public health and LGBTQIA+ rights, Australia is lifting long-standing restrictions that effectively barred many gay and bisexual men from donating blood and plasma. Beginning in July, the country will become the first in the world Read More...
Decriminalizing rough sleeping: A new chapter in compassion and justice
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a long-awaited step towards justice for the most vulnerable, the UK government has announced plans to scrap the Vagrancy Act of 1824. The law, which criminalises rough sleeping in England and Wales, will be replaced next year with more compassionate, Read More...
Hawaii's new 'Green Fee' sets precedent for climate funding through tourism
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Hawaii made history by becoming the first U.S. state to implement a climate impact fee aimed at funding environmental stewardship and climate resilience. Officially signed into law as Act 96, the so-called "Green Fee" will increase the state's transient 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...
Spain leads on LGBTQ+ workplace rights
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM As diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs face growing political resistance in the United States, Spain is charting a different course that is grounded in comprehensive workplace protections for LGBTQ+ people. In October, Spain’s center-left Read More...