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
It’s a new year and a fresh opportunity to work towards protecting and preserving the planet. People, animals and plants are facing many challenges, but there is plenty of good work and positive news that is worth acknowledging. Together, we must continue to stay committed in the fight against climate change.
So let’s celebrate these environmental wins that happened in January and stay motivated to protect our planet!
1. Scientists identified 70 new species in 2021
Photo by David Clode on UnsplashWhile many species are facing extinction, the tree of life is continuing to evolve and show new growth. Researchers at the California Academy of Sciences have announced the discovery of 70 new plant and animal species in 2021, in locations ranging from the lowland forests of Madagascar to Easter Island’s coral reefs.
2. One hundred most sustainable corporations have been announced
Photo by Benno Klandt on UnsplashCorporate Knights Inc., publisher of the world’s largest magazine on clean capitalism, has shared its index of the 100 most sustainable companies of 2022. The ranking is based on an assessment of nearly 7,000 public companies with revenue over $1 billion USD and focuses on corporations that close the say-do gap on commitments made at COP26 in regards to reducing emissions. Take a look at the full list here and consider supporting these corporations where you can, for the betterment of the planet.
3. Rare coral reef discovered off the coast of Tahiti
Photo by Francesco Ungaro on UnsplashAs coral reefs around the world are bleaching due to global warming, UNESCO’s ocean mapping initiative has discovered a rare coral reef off the coast of Tahiti that is one of the largest in the world. The reef is thought to have been protected from bleaching due to its significant depth, and one of the divers describes it as a “work of art”. This gives us hope that more thriving reefs can be discovered.
4. Campaign to honour Betty White raised millions for animal shelters
Photo by Krista Mangulsone on UnsplashThe world recently lost an icon when actress Betty White passed away just weeks before her 100th birthday—but an uplifting movement was started in her memory. The animal welfare advocate served on the board of directors for Actors & Others For Animals, and a social media campaign called the #BettyWhiteChallenge raised millions in her honour. It’s encouraging to see a tragic event and the power of social media being used for good.
5. Scientists say Ethiopian plant could be lifesaving food source amid climate change
Photo by Erik Hathaway on UnsplashMany of our staple food crops are under threat due to climate change, and there is a need to diversify our main sources of food. Scientists have discovered that a plant related to the banana known as enset, which is currently only grown in Ethiopia and used to make porridge and bread, could be grown over a much larger range. Researchers say the plant could be a new superfood with the potential to feed over 100 million people, boosting food security in Africa and beyond.
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!