Good news

Green turtles have been upgraded from Endangered to Least Concern status by the IUCN after decades of global conservation efforts. Once hunted extensively for soup, eggs, and shells, the species has rebounded thanks to beach patrols, egg protection, hatchling releases, and fishing net modifications, though populations remain below historic levels.

In the first half of 2025, renewable energy generated more electricity globally than coal for the first time, driven by growth in China and India. This historic milestone marks progress in the energy transition, though fossil fuel use continues in some regions and the world remains off-track to meet 2030 renewable energy targets.

Tribal leaders, recalling ancient rock art of beavers, partnered with California’s wildlife agency to reintroduce beavers to tribal lands for the first time in seven decades. The released beavers have built dams, expanded wetlands, enhanced water resilience and helped reconnect Indigenous communities with traditional ecosystems.

In 2024 London met the UK’s legal annual limit for nitrogen dioxide—40 µg/m³—a milestone projected to take until 2203. The feat is attributed to Mayor Khan’s policies: modernising buses, phasing out diesel, expanding the Ultra Low Emission Zone, and tightening vehicle emissions standards.

Over 35 wildcats have been released into Scotland's Cairngorms National Park since 2023, supported by Rewilding Europe's European Wildlife Comeback Fund. In 2024, seven litters were born, and at least five more in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the species' recovery.

On September 19, 2025, Morocco became the 60th country to ratify the High Seas Treaty, enabling it to take effect in January 2026. This treaty establishes a legal framework to protect marine biodiversity in international waters, aiming to safeguard nearly two-thirds of the world's oceans.

Between 2010 and 2024, Mexico's jaguar population increased by 30%, from 4,100 to 5,326 individuals. This growth resulted from a comprehensive conservation effort involving 920 motion-sensor cameras across 15 states. Key factors include protected habitats, reduced human-wildlife conflict, and heightened public awareness.

Eighty-two water voles have been reintroduced to Seaton Wetlands in Devon to restore the species’ population. Wild East Devon led the release, combining soft and hard methods to help voles acclimatise. The project boosts existing populations and provides genetic diversity, supporting recovery after the species lost 97% of its UK range.

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a honeybee "superfood" supplement engineered to provide essential nutrients, particularly sterols, that are often lacking in traditional bee feed. In lab trials, colonies fed this supplement produced up to 15 times more adult bees, offering hope for combating global bee population declines.

Oxford United has unveiled plans to build the UK's first all-electric football stadium. The 16,000-seat venue will operate entirely on renewable energy, featuring roof-mounted solar panels, an air-source heat pump, and energy-efficient systems. This initiative aims to set a new standard for sustainability in sports infrastructure.

Samuel L. Jackson stars in a bold, viral campaign promoting offshore wind power as a vital weapon against climate change. Calling it “a middle finger to CO₂,” he urges urgent action, highlighting how wind energy is key to cutting emissions and building a sustainable future.

Conservation efforts in Dorset’s Studland Bay have led to a record rise in seahorse populations, a hopeful sign of marine recovery. Increased protections and habitat restoration show that targeted action can revive vulnerable species and improve biodiversity, offering a rare conservation win in UK coastal waters.

In a historic shift, solar power generated more electricity than fossil fuels across the EU this May. The milestone reflects a growing move towards renewables, with solar supplying 18% of the EU’s electricity. Coal, by contrast, fell to a record low of just 10%, signalling lasting change.

Pine marten kits have been born in Devon for the first time in over 100 years. Once extinct in England, the species is making a quiet comeback thanks to reintroduction efforts by the Woodland Trust and Devon Wildlife Trust, offering hope for the recovery of Britain’s native woodland predators.

A common crane chick, fluffy and rare, has hatched at a UK wetland centre for the first time in three years. It’s only the second chick born to its parents on-site, prompting excitement among staff and conservationists alike.

Greggs has opened its first “Eco” drive‑thru in Winchester, featuring solar panels, rainwater harvesting, sun tubes, low‑energy lighting and heat‑recovery systems. Part of a wider sustainable rollout — building on its eco‑shop model across 27 % of its estate — the pilot seeks to reduce energy, waste and water use.

The UK government plans to extend its ban on bottom trawling in protected English waters. This destructive fishing method damages seabed habitats and marine biodiversity. The expanded ban aims to restore ocean health, support sustainable fisheries, and protect sensitive marine ecosystems like seagrass meadows and cold-water coral reefs.

Global investment in nature-based solutions for water security - like wetland restoration, forest management, and green infrastructure - has doubled since 2013. These approaches help reduce flood and drought risks while supporting biodiversity and carbon storage, offering a cost-effective, climate-resilient alternative to traditional grey infrastructure.

A new National Nature Reserve has been established in Kent’s North Downs, protecting over 800 hectares of ancient woodland, rare chalk grassland, and diverse wildlife. The designation aims to boost biodiversity, restore nature-rich habitats, and improve public access to green spaces in one of England’s most ecologically important landscapes.

After a 185-year absence, the world’s smallest otter species - the Asian small-clawed otter - has been rediscovered in Nepal. Camera trap footage confirmed their return, marking a major milestone for conservation efforts in the region and offering hope for the revival of other elusive and endangered riverine species.

A group of grandmothers in Saltburn, Teesside, knit tiny jumpers for penguins affected by oil spills in Australia. These woolly jumpers prevent the birds from ingesting toxic oil while preening. The initiative brings comfort and protection to wildlife, while giving the knitters a sense of purpose.