with powerful countries set back climate action And the temperature continues to rise, dangerous thresholdI can’t help but worry about the state of the planet.
As an environmental journalist, I experience climate anxiety, climate catastrophe, and even existential fear for the environment on a daily basis.
All of these terms describe the negative emotions we face when faced with the reality of global warming, such as stress, fear, anger, and sadness. Almost every day there are reports of destruction and loss of life caused by disasters. abnormal weatherit is impossible to escape the effects of climate change.
But instead of wallowing in feelings of helplessness, experts suggest turning these feelings into action.
At Euronews Green, we recognize that we have an important role to play in the fight against climate change. Our job is to report truthfully and accurately; green wash I also want to remind you that despite the reality, there is always hope.
That’s why we’ve continued to compile positive news about the environment for the past four years. We cover hundreds of good stories every year, from environmental innovations and green breakthroughs to climate wins and feel-good reports on nature.
Here are the top positive stories of the year so far, including the small and local ones, the ridiculous ones that made us laugh, and the huge ones that could change the world.
If you’ve seen a great positive story that we haven’t covered, please contact us. Instagram or × to share your ideas.
Positive environmental stories for February 2026
“Hot sandwiches for cooler climates”: Has Finland finally found a solution to industrial heat emissions?
Finland is harnessing the unexpected power of sand to decarbonize industrial heat, a major ‘blind spot’ in global emissions.
Industrial heat production is one of the largest and most difficult sources of carbon emissions, accounting for approximately one-fifth of the world’s total energy consumption.
Are Airfryer Secretly Improving Indoor Air Quality?
Air fryers often use less electricity than traditional ovens, making them a great way to keep utility bills down as costs continue to rise.
Now, new research shows that air fryers may also be better for indoor air quality, but with one important condition.
Positive environmental stories for January 2026
‘Escape the fossil fuel roller coaster’: 10 European countries pledge €9.5bn to North Sea wind project
Almost a dozen countries have come together to get off the “fossil fuel roller coaster” and transform the wind energy sector.
Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom have signed the Hamburg Declaration. This is a landmark commitment to deliver 100GW of joint offshore wind projects in shared waters in the North Sea by 2050. This is enough electricity to power approximately 143 million homes.
Can ‘sustainable’ fungicides save French vineyards from climate change-related diseases?
France’s ban on a fungicide commonly used to protect grape crops from mold has brought a glimmer of hope to winemakers.
Sean Smith, CEO of UK-based tech company Eden Research, has devised a “viable and sustainable” alternative to copper-based pesticides.
Solar and wind overtake fossil fuels for the first time in the EU
In 2025, wind and solar will generate more electricity in the EU than fossil fuels for the first time, marking a “major milestone” in the transition to clean electricity.
‘Historical’ High Seas Treaty enters into force
The long-awaited Treaty on the High Seas has entered into force, marking a “historic milestone” for the protection of the world’s oceans.
Covering almost half of the Earth’s surface, the high seas extend across national borders and form part of the global commons. Until now, there has been no legal framework in place to protect the biodiversity of these high seas and ensure that the benefits of these resources are shared equitably between countries.
We have ignored the power of fungi to absorb carbon. Meet the scientists who are determined to change this situation.
The “invisible” keys to tackling the climate crisis are in the spotlight after evolutionary biologist Dr. Toby Kiers was named the recipient of the 2026 Tyler Environmental Achievement Award.
Touted as the “Nobel Prize” of climate, the award recognizes “outstanding” scientific achievements in environmental science, health and energy that benefit humanity. The prize is $250,000 (approximately 215,000 euros).
Ocean coral reefs could be a secret weapon to combat food insecurity around the world
Coral reefs can become a key part of the pathway to fighting global hunger and improving nutrition around the world.
Rebuilding coral reef fish stocks and managing them at “sustainable levels” remains feasible and could be a solution to tackling malnutrition, according to a new study from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI). In some regions, this could be achieved in as little as six years.
Rare whales are entering the perfect season to give birth
Whales, one of the world’s rarest species, are giving birth to more babies this year than in recent seasons, but experts say they need more to prevent possible extinction.
The North Atlantic right whale population is estimated at 384 individuals and is slowly increasing after years of decline.
A “permanent ban on chemicals” comes into effect in France. what changes here
In France, a permanent ban on “chemical substances” came into effect on January 1, following growing concerns about the negative health effects of these persistent pollutants.
This landmark bill was passed on February 20, 2025, with more than 140,000 people calling on their legislators to support the ban.