Chicago’s once-polluted river is finally showing signs of vibrant life and renewed public trust. Long associated with industrial waste and neglect, the Chicago River has been transformed through decades of cleanup, policy changes, and community action. Kayakers who once avoided the water now report spotting wildlife and enjoying clearer, healthier waterways.
Signs of a Healthier Ecosystem
Conservation teams from the Shedd Aquarium regularly kayak the river to document changes. They’ve observed an increasing number of fish species, turtles, and birds, along with social media-famous residents like “Chonkosaurus,” a massive snapping turtle that has become a symbol of recovery. These sightings underscore improvements in water quality and habitat restoration that have allowed wildlife to thrive in an urban setting.
Chicago Prepares for First Open-Water Swim in a Century
One of the clearest signs of renewed public confidence is the planned 2025 open-water swim in downtown Chicago—the first such event in nearly 100 years. Organized by the nonprofit A Long Swim, the event will take participants from the Dearborn Street Bridge to Lake Street. It also doubles as a fundraiser for swim education programs for underrepresented youth. As Axios Chicago reported, Mayor Brandon Johnson described the swim as proof of the city’s decades-long environmental work paying off.
What Sparked the Cleanup
The revival has been powered by several key forces:
- National policies like the Clean Water Act curbed industrial pollution.
- Local groups such as Friends of the Chicago River organized volunteer cleanups, riverbank restoration, and advocacy for stricter standards.
- Infrastructure upgrades, including improved sewage treatment, cut harmful runoff.
- Innovative projects like the “Wild Mile” floating wetlands added new habitat and green space in the river corridor.
These efforts combined to make the river safer, healthier, and more accessible.
A Model for Urban Waterway Renewal
Chicago’s transformation is inspiring other cities to reimagine their waterways. Groups like American Rivers highlight the Chicago River’s revival as a case study in how long-term planning and civic partnerships can turn degraded rivers into community assets. The return of fish, turtles, and beavers—along with the upcoming public swim—shows that the river is no longer simply a backdrop to the city but a vital part of its future.
Looking Forward
Challenges remain, especially during heavy rains when stormwater can overflow into the river. Yet the trajectory is clear: the Chicago River has shifted from being one of the nation’s most polluted waterways to a recovering urban ecosystem. Its story is a reminder that with persistence, investment, and imagination, even the most damaged rivers can be brought back to life.
More Good News
-
Congo Basin nations launch historic community payments for forest care initiative
A groundbreaking initiative has launched across the Congo Basin to pay local communities directly for protecting their forests. Supported by the Central African Forest Initiative (CAFI), the program uses mobile technology to transfer funds to farmers who engage in sustainable practices like agroforestry and reforestation. With over $100 million in new funding, this effort aims to scale up conservation across the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo. This model empowers local people as the primary guardians of the world’s second-largest rainforest.
-
Uruguay achieves near 100% renewable energy grid
Uruguay has achieved a major energy milestone, generating over 97% of its electricity from renewable sources. This success is built on a strategic mix of wind, solar, hydropower, and biomass, ensuring a reliable and clean grid without reliance on fossil fuel imports. This pragmatic economic policy has stabilized energy costs and created thousands of jobs. Uruguay’s rapid transition provides a powerful, scalable blueprint for other nations seeking energy independence and environmental sustainability.
-
Germany to classify date rape drugs as weapons to ensure justice for survivors
Germany has taken a landmark step to protect survivors of sexual violence by classifying date rape drugs as weapons under criminal law. This decisive move, championed by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, allows for significantly stricter prosecutions and longer sentences for offenders. By legally recognizing the severity of drug-facilitated assault, the government is closing loopholes and prioritizing victim safety. This reform sets a powerful new standard for justice and public safety across Europe.
-
Dominican Republic celebrates historic court win against old anti-gay law
In a historic victory for human rights, the Constitutional Court of the Dominican Republic has struck down a ban on same-sex conduct within the national police and armed forces. This landmark ruling declares that Article 210 of the Police Code and Article 260 of the Armed Forces Code are unconstitutional. By eliminating the threat of prison sentences for LGBTQ+ officers, the court has affirmed the right to equality, privacy, and dignity. This decision aligns the nation with international standards and sets a powerful precedent for future anti-discrimination efforts.
-
Colombia bans all new oil and mining projects in its Amazon
In a decisive victory for the environment, the Colombian government has declared a halt to all future industrial extraction within its rainforest territories. This policy protects 42% of the nation’s territory, immediately stopping hundreds of pending permits. The ban prioritizes biodiversity, water systems, and Indigenous land rights over short-term profit. By shifting focus to a sustainable bioeconomy, Colombia is setting a powerful example of environmental sovereignty for the entire Amazon basin.