Friday Good News Round-Up: A Week of Positive Change

Photo byS. Curtis

As the week draws to a close, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on some inspiring and heartening developments that have emerged recently. From groundbreaking advancements in energy efficiency to remarkable legal victories in climate advocacy and innovative solutions tackling health and environmental challenges, these stories remind us of the progress we’re making on multiple fronts. This week’s round-up brings to light a series of uplifting stories that showcase human ingenuity, resilience, and compassion, proving that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding even in challenging times.

Energy Efficiency Milestone

In a significant step towards sustainability, the Biden administration’s Department of Energy has introduced updated energy efficiency standards for over 20 everyday products. These new regulations aim to minimize energy waste and enhance cost-effectiveness, from gas furnaces to dishwashers. According to a recent report, these standards could save the average American household more than $2,000 over the next 20 years. Beyond individual savings, these updates are set to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, offering long-term benefits for both our environment and public health.

Youth-Led Climate Victory in Hawaii

In an inspiring legal triumph, a group of young activists in Hawaii has secured a groundbreaking settlement that compels the state’s Department of Transportation to cut its emissions. This landmark decision mandates a transition to zero-emission transportation by 2045, marking a significant win for climate advocacy. The lawsuit, filed by the plaintiffs of Navahine v. Hawaii Department of Transportation, challenged the state's failure to protect their constitutional right to a clean environment. This victory highlights the growing influence of youth in shaping climate policy and securing a sustainable future.

Teen E-Cigarette Use at a Decade Low

In a promising development for public health, the rate of e-cigarette use among teenagers has dropped to its lowest level in ten years. Recent data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey reveals that fewer than 8% of high school students reported vaping in the past month, a significant decrease from the peak levels of 2019. This decline reflects a positive trend in curbing adolescent vaping and offers hope for continued progress in reducing tobacco use among youth.

Shellfish Waste Turns into a Flood Mitigation Solution

Researchers have unveiled a new type of concrete made from discarded shellfish shells, offering an innovative solution for flood-prone cities. When crushed, scallop and whelk shells enhance the porosity of this previous concrete, allowing water to drain through rather than pooling on the surface. This sustainable material acts like a sponge, absorbing excess runoff and gradually releasing it into the ground. Developed by Karl Williams at the University of Central Lancashire, this shell-based concrete addresses flood risks and tackles the climate impacts of food waste and traditional construction materials.

A Father’s Fight for a Cure Leads to Hope for Many

In a truly inspiring story, Terry Pirovolakis, a Canadian father, has made extraordinary efforts to develop a gene therapy for his son Michael, who has the rare neurological disorder SPG50. Faced with a lack of available treatments, Terry's journey took him across continents, from the US to the UK and Spain, to develop a therapy that has successfully halted the disease’s progression in trials. Encouragingly, this breakthrough treatment is now ready, but funds are needed to make it widely available. Rebekah Lockard, whose daughter Naomi also has SPG50, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for her stake in the trial, hoping to secure one of the eight available doses. The campaign has raised $137,000, but this is only 13% of the total needed. This story underscores the urgent need for continued support to help bring this life-changing treatment to more children.