The UK reached a record-breaking level of renewable energy use, generating 48% of electricity in Q1 of 2023 – an impressive feat considering just 13 years ago only 7% came from renewables. However, there is still a long way to go before the country’s goal of a decarbonised electricity system by 2035 is reached. The… Continue reading 100% renewable electricity for the UK – how close are we?
Category: Positive News
Black Friday: seven things to do instead of buying stuff
The majority of Black Friday deals are not a good deal, as shown by new research by the consumer group Which?. The company analysed over 200 deals from eight major shops, including Amazon, Argos, Currys and John Lewis, and discovered that 98% of the bargains on offer were cheaper or the same price at any… Continue reading Black Friday: seven things to do instead of buying stuff
Eight ways to transform a walk in the forest into a wellbeing immersion
Emerging research confirms that being among trees can be good for our health, and walking in the forest is a popular pastime for many people. Being surrounded by nature has a calming effect on individuals, with some researchers even suggesting that it can lower the levels of cortisol in the body. Here are eight ways… Continue reading Eight ways to transform a walk in the forest into a wellbeing immersion
How do you challenge or avoid consumerism?
With the arrival of Black Friday and the lead up to Christmas, consumerism is in full swing. But for those looking to avoid the shopping frenzy, it can be overwhelming and challenging to know where to start. So, what alternative approaches can you take? Whether you refuse to buy into the consumerist culture altogether or… Continue reading How do you challenge or avoid consumerism?
As Ireland’s smartphone school ban is approved, the town where it all began
Last May, parents and teachers in Greystones, County Wicklow, launched a town-wide ‘no-smartphone code’ to tackle the rise of smartphones being used by primary school students. The concept stemmed from conversations between parents who were regularly feeling pressure from their children to purchase a smartphone. By setting up the code, the town removed the peer… Continue reading As Ireland’s smartphone school ban is approved, the town where it all began
What went right this week: the good news you should know about
Climate change, endangered species, and LGBTQ+ rights saw some positive developments this week. China, the world’s biggest polluter, is set to experience a drop in CO2 emissions. Carbon Brief analysed the country’s low-carbon energy infrastructure to conclude that the decline is likely to begin next year with fossil fuel use set to enter structural decline. This… Continue reading What went right this week: the good news you should know about
All I want for Christmas is: Positive News
In an attempt to show their appreciation for clients and employees in a more meaningful and memorable way, companies are becoming more creative with their Christmas gift choices. While traditional gestures such as gift vouchers and Christmas food hampers remain popular, more values-led companies are opting for gifts with a positive, socially conscious message. Wholegrain… Continue reading All I want for Christmas is: Positive News
This company makes cosmetics packaging materials that leave no microplastics behind
Packaging created by Finnish startup Sulapac is leading the way in use of bio-based materials and low carbon footprint. Co-founders Laura Tirkkonen-Rajasalo and Suvi Haimi, biochemists, were inspired to act after noticing endless rows of plastic cosmetics pots. In 2016, Sulapac was established using recycled and byproduct materials to make plant-based biopolymer and natural material… Continue reading This company makes cosmetics packaging materials that leave no microplastics behind
Making a comeback: the ‘lost’ species returning to Britain
Rewilders in the United Kingdom are reintroducing previously extinct species to the nation in the absence of leadership from the government. The UK is one of the most nature-depleted nations globally. Recently reintroduced species include the beaver, which has reappeared in areas across England and Scotland due to a combination of official trials and unofficial… Continue reading Making a comeback: the ‘lost’ species returning to Britain
The buildings that heal
Trauma-informed design (TID) is an emerging architectural movement that aims to create sanctuaries for those who are vulnerable due to traumatic events. TID has gained popularity because dehumanising designs in prisons and homeless shelters can create additional stress for vulnerable people. According to the Trauma-informed Design Society (TiDS), buildings are designed in a way that… Continue reading The buildings that heal