Today (2017 C.E. - 2025 C.E.)

Congo Basin nations launch historic community payments for forest care initiative

By / / Good News For Humankind

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 flag

Uruguay achieves near 100% renewable energy grid

By / / Good News For Humankind

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.

Judge's gavel

Germany to classify date rape drugs as weapons to ensure justice for survivors

By / / Good News For Humankind

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.

Aerial view of Santo Domingo

Dominican Republic celebrates historic court win against old anti-gay law

By / / Good News For Humankind

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.

River running through rainforest

Colombia bans all new oil and mining projects in its Amazon

By / / Good News For Humankind

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.

Children eating school meal

Colorado voters approve tax increase on high earners to fund school meals, food stamps

By / / Good News For Humankind

Colorado has achieved a major victory for public health with the passage of Proposition MM. This landmark measure secures approximately $100 million annually for mental health and addiction services by limiting tax deductions for high earners making over $300,000. The revenue will expand access to care in rural communities and support critical crisis intervention programs. This decisive vote confirms a strong public commitment to progressive funding solutions, treating mental health as an essential service for all.

Milu deer

China’s milu deer achieves stunning population recovery

By / / Good News For Humankind

The world is celebrating a monumental conservation success: the Pere David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus) has made a remarkable recovery from near-extinction. This unique species, often called the “milu” or “elaphure,” was saved through decades of dedicated human effort and international cooperation. The global population has rebounded from a low of just 39 individuals to an estimated 8,200 today. This achievement demonstrates the immense power of conservation science and captive breeding programs.

Pill

U.K.’s National Health Service makes morning-after pill available for free in pharmacies across England

By / / Good News For Humankind

England has achieved a major victory for public health by making the morning-after pill free across community pharmacies. This expansion eliminates the significant financial barrier that previously cost patients up to £30. Public health experts predict this policy will lead to a crucial decline in unintended pregnancies. By ensuring immediate and widespread access, the National Health Service (NHS) is actively promoting reproductive autonomy and health equity.

Aerial view of Sydney, Australia

Sydney to ban gas and electrify all new big buildings

By / / Good News For Humankind

The City of Sydney has taken a pioneering step toward eliminating fossil fuels from its buildings. The council voted to mandate that all new major buildings must be built all-electric, effectively banning natural gas connections. This major policy shift is critical for accelerating the city’s transition to net-zero emissions. By removing indoor gas pollution, the mandate also creates healthier, safer urban environments for its residents.

Pangolin

Nigeria passes major new wildlife trafficking law

By / / Good News For Humankind

A groundbreaking legal reform in Nigeria has created a strong deterrent against illegal wildlife trafficking. The new law increases penalties, targeting the pervasive trade where shipments of pangolin scales alone have reached staggering weights, such as 51 tons in 2019. This decisive action strengthens national enforcement and the capacity of rangers. It provides crucial protection for endangered species like pangolins and forest elephants, reinforcing the commitment to biodiversity in Nigeria and abroad.