This week brought a handful of stories that remind us progress is still happening, even when the headlines don’t lead with it. Researchers at the University of Exeter identified 51 environmental solutions that are ready to launch right now, from reintroducing big animals to wild landscapes to expanding clean air zones. The idea is that each one can tip off the next, building momentum like dominoes. In China, coal generation is stalling in 17 of 26 provinces and regions, and analysts say renewables are beginning to take its place.
The United Nations made a different kind of history. In a 164 to 1 vote, member nations agreed to replace the familiar Mercator map with the Equal Earth map, which shows Africa at its true size. The United States cast the only opposing vote. As Togo’s foreign minister said, a fair world begins with a fair map.
And for families everywhere, a study of 12,000 English primary schools found that when communities coordinate to delay kids’access to smartphones, children’s mental health improves. The UK is now pushing Apple and Google to block explicit images on children’s phones by default. As one parent advocate put it, delaying a smartphone isn’t about what you’re taking away from your child, it’s about everything you’re giving back.
Which of these stories hits closest to home for you?
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
