The world is going through a lot. Instead of focusing on bad news, we’ve rounded up the most encouraging environmental stories that made headlines this month
People, animals, plants and the environment face many challenges that are the direct result of the climate crisis. But each day presents new opportunities to work towards a more sustainable future—and there are plenty of commendable efforts being made that are definitely worth acknowledging. Together, we can make progress in the fight against climate change.
So let’s celebrate these environmental wins that happened in August and stay motivated to protect the planet...
1. USA passes largest climate act in its history
The US Senate passed a new bill called the Inflation Reduction Act, which invests $369 billion in energy security and climate change, aiming to reduce carbon emissions by roughly 40 percent by 2030. President Joe Biden called the bill the “biggest step forward on climate ever”, marking significant progress in the fight for climate justice.
2. Creation of first-ever treaty on ocean’s biological diversity is underway
An intergovernmental conference held its fifth and likely final session towards creating the world’s first treaty on the ocean’s biological diversity. The internationally binding agreement will aim to address the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas of the ocean that extend beyond national jurisdictions, states the UN.
3. New scientific development makes food crops 20 percent more efficient at harnessing sunlight
In a breakthrough towards eliminating food scarcity, a research team from the UK and US has been able to increase the photosynthesis efficiency of crops, improving their ability to harness sunlight by 20 percent. This advancement used genetically altered soybean plants to achieve a 20 percent greater crop yield, providing new hope for the global food supply.
4. Hit show Love Island UK promotes sustainable fashion with its eBay sponsorship
Primetime dating show Love Island UK, which reaches an audience of 5 million, shined a light on sustainable fashion with its popular 2022 summer season. The show partnered with secondhand marketplace eBay and featured contestants wearing pre-loved clothing all season, after which eBay reported a 700 percent increase in searches for pre-loved fashion. While reality TV isn’t for everyone, its influence is undeniable.
5. Canada among top countries most likely to reach net zero by 2050
A new study by Utility Bidder has announced the top 10 countries on track to reach net zero emissions by 2050, with Canada ranking as number 8. More than 70 countries have set net-zero targets, but of the top 10 greenhouse-gas emitters, only Japan, Canada and the EU have legally binding net-zero commitments.
We hope these pieces of good news will encourage you to think positively and motivate you to play your part as we work towards a more sustainable future!