By Rachel Wade, Writer
Don't let your day be filled with the recent, depressing news of this pandemic. Instead, dive into the wonders of the world with these new good news updates.
Within the whirlwind of the COVID-19 outbreak, news headlines can only pinpoint their focus on government statements, individuals that have been positively tested, countries on lockdown, things to do when in isolation or how to prevent getting the virus in the first place.
If you are like many of us who are feeling rather suffocated within all this chaos, let spirits be encouraged with recent news that is positive and non-coronavirus related.
Tackling the Trash
In the UK, new legislation is making businesses single-handedly tackle the amount of waste they produce in order to reduce pollution.
Danone, H&M and L’Oréal are some examples of major labels that have signed up to the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment to eliminate plastic pollution. It is easier for small businesses to change the amount of plastic they use and have taken into account this new legislation by choosing sustainability. Some are planting a tree for each customer while others are using biodegradable packaging.
So when you’re online shopping (as you should not be rocking up to town at a time like this), make sure you check to see if the company is using sustainable materials. Fortunately, this is becoming more and more common for several companies. Nowadays, the search for eco-friendly clothes is easier!
A Fall In CO2 Emissions
As less and less people are using public transport, cars or simply going outside whilst in isolation and as a result, the carbon dioxide levels in major cities such as London are decreasing drastically. Whilst this virus is affecting us economically and socially, our environment prevails! You may have heard about the water in the canals of Venice being much clearer and dolphins returning close to the shore - the positive change we all hoped for is occuring (despite under such dreadful circumstances). Isolation is predicted to have gotten rid of about a quarter or more of China's CO2 emissions within four-weeks.
Mountain Rescuers using sausage to save a dog lost in the Highlands forest
Nell, a border collie dog, ran off from her owner after hearing helicopters on 10th March 2020 whilst her owner was being rescued after complications in the Fisherfield Forest (Scottish Highlands). Members of the Mountain Rescue team were able to cure Nell out of hiding with the scent of sausages, and Nell was then reunited with her owner.
University students using dog walking as a way to improve mental health
The Sussex Dog Walking Society has around 400 members and 45 dogs, revealed in a recent BBC News article. Former student of the CLV, Luke Davies, is the secretary of this new scheme, and is bringing joy everywhere! Stress with studies and work can be detrimental to our health, and with the scientific evidence that dogs are therapeutic, this scheme seems like the best thing to be a part of at uni!
New anti-HIV drug
The NHS have announced that PrEP is now 100% effective at stopping HIV and has been called a “game-changer”. By 2030, HIV transmissions are predicted to be stopped. There’s still hope!
‘Britain’s Loneliest Dog’ is lonely no more!
After residing in Last Chance Animal Rescue for 10 whole years, this solemn pooch named Bess has finally been given a home, and is now living happily with new loving owners.
The National Trust has got your back
Despite the solitude of quarantine, the National Trust has remained optimistic. They have kept open their gardens to help provide us with a place for fresh air and tranquility, placing our mental and physical health first (Thank you, NT!). Even though they have closed all their cafe’s, houses, and shops, there’s nothing stopping you from going on a relaxing stroll around nature at its finest (free of charge, too!).
Don’t let social isolation get the best of you, keep yourself updated with positivity and kindness from across the globe. You can subscribe to several online news articles that only post good news, such as Good News Network, Positive, The Happy Newspaper and more!
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