Oceans
From tackling marine plastic pollution to coral reef restoration, learn about humanity’s latest efforts to protect ocean habitats and marine wildlife.
Hawaii's new 'Green Fee' sets precedent for climate funding through tourism
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Hawaii made history by becoming the first U.S. state to implement a climate impact fee aimed at funding environmental stewardship and climate resilience. Officially signed into law as Act 96, the so-called "Green Fee" will increase the state's transient Read More...
A jelly with a scent of hope: how a nanoparticle gel could help save coral reefs
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM When the ocean gets too warm, coral reefs bleach, weaken, and sometimes die. And right now, they’re in serious trouble. Over 80 percent of the world’s reef area has experienced heat stress since early 2023, leading to what researchers are calling the Read More...
How DNA in the air could help track life on Earth
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In the lush forests of northern Belize, surrounded by hibiscus blooms, kingfishers overhead, and the busy trails of leaf-cutter ants below, biodiversity scientist Elizabeth Clare reflects on a question as profound as it is urgent: how do we measure all of Read More...
The surprising power of penguin poop: how guano-made clouds may help cool the planet
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In the chilly heart of Antarctica, a bunch of tuxedoed waddlers may be doing more for the planet than most of us in puffer coats. A new study has found that penguins, already champions of charm, are also unlikely champions of the climate—thanks to their Read More...
Scientific societies take charge as U.S. climate report faces political uncertainty
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM When leadership falters, science finds a way forward. That’s the message from two of America’s most prominent scientific societies, which have pledged to carry on critical climate research after the Trump administration sidelined the team behind the Read More...
How global protections are helping sea turtles recover
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In an encouraging sign for marine conservation, many endangered sea turtle populations around the world are showing signs of recovery, according to a sweeping global survey published this month in the journal Endangered Species Research. The study, which Read More...
Remembering Pope Francis and his profound impact on climate action
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The recent passing of Pope Francis has sparked reflection on his remarkable leadership — not only within the Catholic Church, but also across the global climate movement. Known for his humility, compassion, and commitment to justice, Pope Francis Read More...
Splitting seawater could revolutionize cement into a carbon-negative material
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In the race to tackle climate change, cement has long been a stubborn problem. Responsible for about eight percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, it’s the fourth-largest source of CO2 pollution worldwide. But a team of researchers believes a new, Read More...
The benefits of shellfish: why clams, oysters, and scallops are great for you and the planet
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM If you love seafood but worry about mercury, overfishing, or the environmental impact of your meal, there’s good news: Shellfish—especially bivalves like oysters, clams, mussels, and scallops—are both a nutritional powerhouse and an environmental Read More...
New ‘no-fishing zones' offer hope for endangered African penguins
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM After years of debate between conservationists and the fishing industry, South Africa has taken a major step toward protecting the critically endangered African penguin. A new agreement will restrict sardine and anchovy fishing around six major breeding Read More...