At The Optimist Daily, we have often featured stories about scientific discoveries that help improve our understanding of the biosphere. We are also big fans of inclusivity, particularly when it shows an appreciation of Indigenous wisdom. That’s why we wanted to feature this … [Read more...] about Decolonizing Science: Kiwi scientists take a stand on using Maori language
New Zealand
Fossil discovered by team of junior naturalists identified as new species
When the members of the Hamilton Junior Naturalist Club headed out on a fossil-hunting expedition, they expected to find some interesting shells and perhaps bones, but what they didn’t expect was the shocking discovery of a previously undiscovered species of penguin. Back in … [Read more...] about Fossil discovered by team of junior naturalists identified as new species
New Zealand will ban most single-use plastic items by 2025
While New Zealand is considered to be one of the greenest countries in the world, it is currently one of the top ten per-capita producers of landfill waste worldwide. That may soon change, however, thanks to new legislation that will ban most single-use plastics by 2025. Among … [Read more...] about New Zealand will ban most single-use plastic items by 2025
Green School students spend most of their time studying outdoors
Integrating sustainability into children’s education early on is key to ensuring future generations have a thorough understanding of the relationship between humans and their natural environment. This is the philosophy behind Green School International — an unconventional … [Read more...] about Green School students spend most of their time studying outdoors
Scientists discover ‘giant luminous shark’ off New Zealand coast
The ability for living organisms to produce visible light through a chemical reaction is known as bioluminescence, and it’s one of the most spectacular phenomenons found in nature. Bioluminescence has been observed in a wide range of marine life such as jellyfish and algae, but … [Read more...] about Scientists discover ‘giant luminous shark’ off New Zealand coast