Oceans
From tackling marine plastic pollution to coral reef restoration, learn about humanity’s latest efforts to protect ocean habitats and marine wildlife.
How global protections are helping sea turtles recover
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In an encouraging sign for marine conservation, many endangered sea turtle populations around the world are showing signs of recovery, according to a sweeping global survey published this month in the journal Endangered Species Research. The study, which Read More...
Remembering Pope Francis and his profound impact on climate action
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The recent passing of Pope Francis has sparked reflection on his remarkable leadership — not only within the Catholic Church, but also across the global climate movement. Known for his humility, compassion, and commitment to justice, Pope Francis Read More...
Splitting seawater could revolutionize cement into a carbon-negative material
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In the race to tackle climate change, cement has long been a stubborn problem. Responsible for about eight percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, it’s the fourth-largest source of CO2 pollution worldwide. But a team of researchers believes a new, Read More...
The benefits of shellfish: why clams, oysters, and scallops are great for you and the planet
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM If you love seafood but worry about mercury, overfishing, or the environmental impact of your meal, there’s good news: Shellfish—especially bivalves like oysters, clams, mussels, and scallops—are both a nutritional powerhouse and an environmental Read More...
New ‘no-fishing zones' offer hope for endangered African penguins
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM After years of debate between conservationists and the fishing industry, South Africa has taken a major step toward protecting the critically endangered African penguin. A new agreement will restrict sardine and anchovy fishing around six major breeding Read More...
AI-powered system helps ships avoid deadly whale collisions
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM A revolutionary artificial intelligence-powered detection system is helping ships avoid a tragic and often invisible threat: collisions with whales. Known as WhaleSpotter, this cutting-edge system alerts ship captains in real time when whales are in their Read More...
From ocean icon to world’s largest artificial reef: the final voyage of the SS United States
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The SS United States, once a gleaming symbol of American engineering might, is charting a new course beneath the waves. The 1,000-foot ocean liner, which shattered transatlantic speed records on its maiden voyage in 1952, has left its long-time berth on Read More...
A light in the deep: scientists create feeding tool to help coral reefs recover
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Coral reefs are in crisis, and scientists around the world are racing to find solutions before these vital ecosystems fade away. Enter UZELA—the Underwater Zooplankton Enhancement Light Array—a new, low-tech but high-impact device developed by researchers Read More...
SF State leads the way as the first major university to require climate justice course
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM San Francisco State University is setting a historic precedent by becoming the first major public university in the U.S. to require all students to take a climate justice course before graduating. Beginning as early as fall 2026, this initiative ensures that Read More...
Ecuador extends rights of nature to coastal ecosystems
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Ecuador once again made history in environmental protection by granting legal rights to its coastal marine ecosystems. The Constitutional Court’s recent decision ensures that marine environments are entitled to “integral respect for their existence and Read More...