I’ve mentioned here before that I’ve been questioned about how do I keep my optimism up in order to continue with this work. Well first off, if I - or you - are going to do this work, we have to optimistically believe that we can make a difference. But second, look around and you’ll notice that there is much to be optimistic about - all across the globe. So starting today - right at this moment - I’m introducing a monthly(ish) feature on what there is going on that can keep our spirits up and reinforce that we average people can make a difference. And yes, I’m cheating. My positive info is coming straight from Positive News Magazine.
What went right in just this past week? Lots. Read it here: Logging fell in key rain forest; a revolutionary dementia study prepares to launch; the Early Cancer Institute is working on novel ways to identify precancerous cells years before they turn into tumors; in the UK mapping wizards at Ordnance Survey (OS) are giving environmental projects a steer with new biodiversity data, which will help identify wildlife corridors and monitor protected habitats - a technology that could be imported here to the US; shoppers are becoming more aware and sustainable shopping surged; a landmark biodiversity benchmark broadened its reach; wages went up for millions of people; healthy minds matter for heart patients – study; and AI emerged as a potential ally against sepsis.
What went right in the last few weeks? Especially encouraging is that global child deaths plummeted.
And if actual good news doesn’t lift your spirits, there’s always a dirty, dry, martini!
Off now to Burlington Vermont to view the eclipse.