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.
Explore nature this summer: Adventures in 8 of America's most accessible national parks
Summertime is the perfect time to hit the road and see some of the 63 magnificent national parks spread across the United States. However, these fun summer activities shouldn’t be off-limits to those with different accessibility needs—accessibility and inclusion are crucial so that all visitors Read More...
The world's largest offshore wind turbine provides clean energy to thousands in China
In an incredible feat of engineering, Three Gorges Energy successfully connected the world's first 16-megawatt offshore wind turbine to the power grid. The MingYang Smart Energy MySE 16-260 towers over the skyline with its 260-meter (853-ft) rotor diameter, ready to offer renewable energy to about Read More...
New York fossil fuel plant pivots to offshore wind energy and takes employees with them
The move away from fossil fuels is becoming increasingly important as the pressure to tackle climate change intensifies. However, the displacement of employees in the fossil fuel industry has been a major source of concern. Labor union members at New York's Ravenswood Generating Station are slated Read More...
Extending conservation across 1% of the planet: A crucial strategy for biodiversity preservation
In an important breakthrough, a recent study conducted by esteemed scientists from the National University of Singapore (NUS), Durham University, and Princeton University reveals a powerful solution to preserve Earth's biodiversity. According to a press release from Durham University, the study Read More...
Amazon deforestation rates fall 34% in 2023 under President Lula
Preliminary government data indicates a significant milestone in Brazil's campaign against deforestation, with deforestation rates dropping by 34 percent in the first half of 2023. Tougher environmental regulations have been adopted under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's leadership, Read More...
From waste to wellness: Making painkillers more sustainable
Paracetamol and ibuprofen, the world's most popular pain relievers, have long relied on ingredients obtained from crude oil in their production. However, as society becomes more mindful of the need to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, the environmental consequences of generating these important Read More...
Puerto Rico's revolutionary community-led solar microgrid
In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017, the Puerto Rican municipality of Adjuntas was plunged into darkness, with no power for weeks. Despite the enormous hurdles, one business, Lucy’s Pizza, stood as a beacon of hope in the midst of the mayhem. The restaurant was powered by a noisy and Read More...
Solar-(em)powered: These streetlights illuminate a path towards climate resilience
The necessity for climate-resilient infrastructure is increasingly evident to prepare for the future. Solar-powered streetlights are one such innovation with enormous promise. These lights provide a stable and independent source of illumination by harnessing the sun's energy, even during power Read More...
5 fun meat-free alternatives to put between those hotdog buns
Hot dogs are unusual culinary wonders that have captured many people’s hearts and appetites. In fact, in celebration of Independence Day on July Fourth, Americans will eat a whopping 150 million hot dogs. However, underlying their tastiness is the fact of the detrimental environmental impact of Read More...
TEMPO Satellite: Harnessing air pollution data to combat environmental injustice
Air pollution is a major hazard to public health in the United States. Pollutants like nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, ground-level ozone, and fine particles are associated with a variety of ailments, including respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Despite significant progress in reducing Read More...