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.
Alberta shuts down its last coal plant, ushering in a new energy era
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL STAFF Alberta reached a historic milestone by closing its last specialized coal plant. On Sunday, June 16th at 10:57 p.m., Capital Power's Genesee 2 facility shut down, marking the end of the province's coal era. According to the Alberta Electric System Operator Read More...
Orcas are smashing boats. Researchers finally think they know the truth behind this trend
For four years, orcas have been ramming and sinking luxury yachts in European waters, perplexing scientists. These intelligent, gregarious creatures have demonstrated a new, destructive behavior that has confused scientists and boat owners alike. However, current research suggests an unexpected Read More...
Insect migration: the hidden superhighway of the Pyrenees
Insects, while frequently disregarded, are critical to the planet's ecosystems. They make up about 90 percent of all animal species and play important functions in both ocean and land ecosystems. Without them, life on Earth could be severely disrupted. New research from the University of Exeter has Read More...
Attention gardeners! Here's how to prepare your garden for summer heat waves
With record-breaking heat waves forecast in the United States this summer, maintaining a healthy garden might be a problem. But don't worry—by taking a few simple steps, you can ensure your plants survive even when the temperatures rise. First and foremost, if you're just getting started with Read More...
As the weather warms up, here's how to help animals handle a heatwave
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL STAFF Right now, much of Europe and North America are experiencing ongoing heatwaves with record-breaking temperatures. It’s not just humans that are struggling to cope. Yes, it’s getting hot in here—but taking off a sweater, jacket or shirt isn’t an Read More...
Why do fish swim in schools? New study reveals unexpected benefits
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL STAFF Schools of fish moving in synchrony have long captivated those lucky enough to observe this phenomenon, often appearing as a single, synchronized organism. A recent study provides insight into one of the primary advantages of this behavior: swimming in Read More...
Coldplay's sustainable tour triumph: reducing carbon footprint by 59%
Coldplay set a new bar for sustainability in the music industry, reporting an astounding 59 percent reduction in their touring carbon footprint over their previous world tour. This success results from innovative techniques and fan collaboration, all consistent with the band's dedication to Read More...
Big Oil to pay for climate change damages in Vermont
Vermont became the first state in the United States to enact legislation mandating fossil fuel companies to pay for climate change-related losses. This unprecedented legislation comes after a string of disastrous weather disasters, including severe floods last summer, that wreaked havoc on the Read More...
Creative cement recycling breakthrough promises to slash emissions
University of Cambridge scientists identified a new way for recycling cement from demolished concrete buildings, which might reduce emissions from one of the world's most polluting industries. Cement, the cornerstone of contemporary construction, accounts for a considerable share of worldwide CO2 Read More...
4 tips for everyday eco-friendly living
In the face of climate change, many people question the importance of individual actions in ensuring a sustainable future. While institutional change is necessary, environmentalist and author Heather White emphasizes the importance of individual choices. White states that "Individual action drives Read More...