Austria shuts down last coal-fired power plant
Austria has shut down its last coal-fired power plant as part of a plan to end the use of fossil fuels for energy production by 2030.
Today (2017 C.E. - 2025 C.E.)
This archive spans one of the most eventful periods in recent history, from 2017 through 2025. Browse more than 4,100 articles documenting scientific breakthroughs, policy wins, social progress, and human ingenuity from the present era. Each story highlights what people and communities around the world are building, solving, and achieving right now.
UC Berkeley offers its popular ‘Science of Happiness’ online course for free
Spoiler: True happiness comes not from setting ourselves above and apart from others, but from joining and serving our communities.
Asthma rates in Kentucky improve as coal plants shut down, new study finds
After four coal plants in Kentucky either retired or were retrofitted, local asthma-related hospitalizations dropped and individuals used their inhalers less frequently.
Landslide victory in South Korean elections sets the stage for EU-style Green New Deal
South Korea, well ahead of the curve compared to many countries in its COVID-19 response efforts, also leads the way in touting renewable energy investments as a way to lead us back to thriving, secure economies.
Six-junction solar cell sets two world records for efficiency
While the six-junction III-V technology underlying these new cells is likely too costly at this time to be put to use in everyday rooftop applications, the new cell has great potential for application in concentrated solar panel arrays.
Solar has record-breaking week in Germany with 23% of generation
Solar generation in Germany experienced its best week yet, accounting for 23%of the country’s electricity generation, helping renewables reach a 55% share.
Seychelles to build world’s largest salt-water floating solar plant
The 5MW solar plant will require 13,500 solar panels, which will be built across 40,000 square meters of water. It is expected to commence in July.
Virginia governor signs LGBTQ nondiscrimination measure into law
Gov. Northam signed the Virginia Values Act, making it the first in the South and the 21st across the United States to pass anti-discrimination protections for the LGBTQ community.
Catholic institutions divest from fossil fuels
So far, more than 150 Catholic banks, universities, foundations, and others have pledged to end their investments in fossil fuels.
‘Rice ATMs’ provide free rice for people out of work in Vietnam due to COVID-19
For these people who are suddenly without income, businessmen and donors have set up machines that dispense free rice at several cities across Vietnam.