Good News: Bristol empowers residents to invest in climate action, Mapping seagrass to boost marine conservation

March 05, 2025

Hello dear Good News community,

thank you for supporting Good News in February! Thanks to you, we are able to bring you Good News twice a week. Today we have climate news from Bristol, marine conservation updates from the Western Indian Ocean – and did you know that dogs can help save koalas by sniffing their poop?

Enjoy reading, Bianca

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Bristol empowers residents to invest in climate action

Bristol's new Climate Action Investment (BCAI) allows residents to fund local green projects from as little as £5, with a return of 4.2% over five years. The scheme supports solar panels, heat pumps and LED lighting, accelerating the city's drive towards carbon neutrality. Source: BBC

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Mapping seagrass to boost marine conservation

Scientists are mapping seagrass in the Western Indian Ocean to protect its vital role in carbon storage, fisheries, and coastal protection. The initiative, expanding from Seychelles to Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Madagascar, aims to create the first standardized map and assess carbon stocks by 2026. Source: MONGABAY

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Tracking methane: technology and activism expose hidden emissions

Portable sensors and high-resolution satellites are revealing methane leaks, a major threat to the climate. Activists in Washington, D.C., use hand-held detectors to track harmful emissions. Better tracking empowers communities and policymakers to hold polluters accountable. Source: BBC

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Basel's green roof strategy: Promoting biodiversity and climate resilience

Basel has pioneered green roofs, requiring them on new buildings since the 1990s. These spaces promote biodiversity, cool cities and manage rainwater. As solar panels compete for space, some cities are now combining greenery with solar energy. Basel's success shows that strong policies can drive lasting environmental change. Source: THE GUARDIAN

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Spain's cohousing movement expands as a housing alternative

Spain's cohousing model offers a more affordable alternative amid the housing crisis, with cooperative projects that emphasise shared spaces and long-term stability. With 179 projects underway and the number expected to double by 2028, interest in the approach continues to grow. Source: EL PAìS

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Dogs help save koalas by sniffing out their droppings

Trained dogs sniff out koala droppings, providing crucial data on health and habitat. In 2024, Max found a chlamydia-free population, offering hope for conservation. As koalas face habitat loss and climate threats, sniffer dogs are helping to identify key areas for protection. Source: CNN

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How you can support our editorial team

🍀 New month, new luck: In March, we are once again reliant on your support to cover the majority of our costs. If you can, please support us with a voluntary contribution - every dollar counts and is reinvested in our work. Thank you very much!

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❣️ Thank you to all 46 supporters in March!
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Best regards,

Bianca Kriel & Selina Mahoche