Politics
Having a difficult time finding positive news about national and global politics? Search no further! From public policy to positive leadership to democracy efforts, find the latest good news stories in the world of politics at The Optimist Daily.
EU votes to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars starting 2035
The European Union’s goal is to slash 55 percent of its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and reduce carbon dioxide emissions from vehicles by 100 percent by 2035. As part of this ambition, the European Parliament has voted to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars starting in 2035. This vote Read More...
US unveils plan to ban single-use plastic in national parks
Plastic pollution is so prevalent that harmful plastic particles can even be found in drinking water. Robust action on a national scale is needed to stop the flood of plastics into natural environments. Wednesday, on World Oceans Day, the White House announced its plans to phase out single-use Read More...
New Zealand plans to charge cattle burps to cut emissions
Cow and sheep burps are huge emitters of methane — which is over 80 times more efficient than CO2 at trapping heat in the atmosphere. But while livestock is the main contributor to the agriculture sector’s emissions, they are often excluded from emissions trading plans. Soon, that will no Read More...
New NY bill raises age to buy and own semi-automatic rifles
In the wake of multiple mass shootings, there’s been a lot of serious discussion concerning who should have access to guns. Earlier this month, New York’s legislature decided to ban anyone under the age of 21 from purchasing or possessing a semi-automatic rifle. What is a semi-automatic Read More...
Uber delivers emergency food and supplies in Ukraine
Some aid trucks that provide food and emergency services in Ukraine have trouble reaching those in need because urban structural damage blocks the way. Ongoing violence also makes it difficult. To address this, the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) is working with the tech firm Uber to get Read More...
4 policy strategies to reduce the environmental cost of meat
Many food systems have a detrimental effect on the environment, especially when it comes to the cattle industry. Cheap meat does not reflect its true price when it comes to its negative cost to our planet. So how can we bring meat products up to their true cost without hurting the pockets of the Read More...
Baltimore aims to expand public internet access with city-owned network
State and local governments are coming to appreciate the internet for what it is: an essential utility. With much of the workforce working from home and children going to school online, reliable internet is vital for workers in all sectors of the economy. In the wake of successful programs Read More...
US pushes through solar panel imports while helping boost production
A tariff investigation by the Commerce Department has stalled the expansion of the United States solar industry. This was a look into whether or not Chinese solar manufacturers were improperly funneling parts through other Asian countries. Determined to meet its clean energy and climate goals, Read More...
Thailand once again celebrates LBGTQ+ pride after almost 16 years
Sunday 5th June 2022 was a huge day for the LBGTQ+ community in Thailand. For the first time in almost 16 years, pride was able to be celebrated in the country's capital, Bangkok. The Naruemit - Thai word for creation - Pride 2022 event, was organized by incredible NGOs which promote and advocate Read More...
Canada announces legislation to freeze handgun sales
In response to the frequent and horrific mass shootings that are plaguing the United States, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau introduced new legislation to tighten gun control laws in Canada. The new bill will make it illegal for Canadians to buy, sell, transfer, or import handguns Read More...