This week there were a lot of reasons to feel positive. From new green initiatives to help combat climate change to the announcement of projects to create more green spaces in urban areas, there was plenty of news to bring a smile to people’s faces.
One study from the London School of Economics suggested that combining volunteering with fitness activities can have a significant positive effect on life satisfaction. The study looked at participants from GoodGym, a fitness charity that also focuses on volunteering. The results showed that those who combined exercise with volunteering reported a 27% increase in ‘belonging’ and a 21% reduction in ‘mental distress’ compared to a control group.
Scientists have also made a breakthrough in the effort to curb carbon emissions. They have developed a low-carbon technique for recycling cement that uses excess heat from steel recycling facilities. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce the huge amount of carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement production, which currently accounts for around 7.5% of global carbon emissions.
In the US, the green energy sector is booming, with a 55% rise in wind and solar power being recorded between 2019 and 2022. This has led to a significant reduction in carbon emissions. Green energy projects have also led to a decrease in sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, both of which are linked to asthma.
Finally, Starbucks’ disposable cup charge is being used to fund projects that provide more green spaces for UK communities with limited access to nature. Eight charities will share a £1m grant to create more green spaces for health workers, patients, and people in built-up areas. Research has shown that spending time in nature can improve wellbeing and lead to more environmentally friendly lifestyle choices.
All of these initiatives and developments are cause for hope and show that there is progress being made towards a more sustainable and fulfilling future for all
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