Heartfeldt Foundation

Worry not - your weekly dose of good climate news has arrived! 🌍✨ ⛏️New coal mining licences will be banned in the UK The UK’s decision to ban new coal mining licenses signals a decisive move away from one of the largest global sources of CO2 emissions, demonstrating strong climate leadership. By phasing out coal power, which once provided a significant share of the country's electricity, the UK is not only addressing its carbon footprint but also setting an example for other nations. The legislation is part of a broader transition to clean energy, supported by investments in wind, solar, hydrogen, and carbon capture technologies, which promise to create thousands of green jobs while ensuring a more sustainable and secure energy future. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eXUS67e8 🌳Paris to replace parking spaces with trees Paris' ambitious 2024-2030 Climate Plan sets a precedent for urban sustainability by pledging to replace 60,000 parking spaces with trees, create 300 hectares of green space, and establish car-free zones in every arrondissement by 2030. This transformative initiative aims to combat extreme heat, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance urban resilience with shaded "oasis squares" and cooling centers. The plan also includes speed reductions on major roads and expanded public transit lanes, reinforcing Paris' leadership in reimagining cities for a greener, more pedestrian-friendly future. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gpXZK8ZV 🏆Greece’s Tilos island becomes a global zero-waste pioneer Tilos Island has become the world’s first zero-waste island, proving that circular economies are achievable even on a small scale. Through the collaboration of local residents and the Greek company Polygreen, the island eliminated public trash bins and trained its 746 residents to sort recyclables, organic waste, and non-recyclables effectively. This initiative not only reduces waste but also sets a transformative example for other islands and nations worldwide. While scaling this model to larger populations is a challenge, Tilos serves as a beacon of hope. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dYbfzAj2 🦅Greenland's peregrine falcons spark global environmental action Greenland's peregrine falcons, renowned for their agility and resilience, have become a symbol of environmental recovery and adaptability. Once threatened by pesticides like DDT, these falcons survived in remote habitats, inspiring decades of research and conservation efforts that helped restore global populations. Their remarkable migration patterns and dietary flexibility highlight their role in the Arctic ecosystem, while studies of their exposure to contaminants have deepened our understanding of human impacts on the environment. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dCD-aweQ

Giving Tuesday is a global day dedicated to generosity and making a difference. With us, you have the power to help create cleaner oceans, healthier rivers, and a brighter future for our planet. 🌊💚 👉 Support us by donating, or simply share this post to spread the word. Every action counts, and together, we can make an impact! 💪 Heartfeldt Coral Nursery: https://lnkd.in/dpQh3NNu River Clean-up: https://lnkd.in/dF8H2z25 Thank you for being part of the change. 💙 #GivingTuesday #GivingTuesday2024

🎁 This holiday season, give a gift that truly makes a difference: adopt a coral in the name of your loved one through the Heartfeldt Coral Nursery. Your thoughtful gesture supports the ongoing coral restoration efforts of GaiaOne Restoration Project and helps bring life back to our oceans. ✨ Make your gift meaningful. Visit: https://lnkd.in/dpQh3NNu

This week's good climate news is here to lift you up! 🌍✨ Swipe through our latest collection of positive stories and tell us—which one makes you the happiest? 💚 🥕Boston Medical Center’s rooftop farm: A greener prescription for health Boston Medical Center’s innovative rooftop farm combines sustainability and healthcare to create a powerful model for the future. By turning 2,658 square feet of urban roof space into a thriving farm, BMC delivers thousands of pounds of fresh produce annually to its patients and food programs, while reducing its carbon footprint and managing stormwater. This is not only exemplifies urban agriculture’s potential to enhance food security but also promotes community education and environmental responsibility, becoming a blueprint for green healthcare facilities. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dBwKf9mu ☀️Renewable growth is faster in the global south than in rich countries Renewable energy is gaining unprecedented momentum in the global south, with solar and wind power growing twice as fast as in wealthier nations over the past five years. This shift is driven by falling technology costs and fewer fossil fuel infrastructure barriers, making the energy transition more accessible. Despite challenges like higher financing costs, many developing countries are showing that green energy is not only viable but thriving, offering hope for a faster global transition to renewables. Read more:  https://lnkd.in/eFZQcKcD 🪫Electric vehicle batteries find second life powering rural businesses India is turning the challenge of EV battery waste into an opportunity by repurposing used batteries to power small businesses and rural livelihoods. Companies like Nunam are transforming discarded batteries into reliable energy solutions for communities facing inconsistent electricity, enabling sustainable economic growth while reducing e-waste. This approach not only empowers local workers, but also sets the stage for a circular economy that minimizes waste, reduces dependency on critical mineral imports, and creates jobs, all while supporting India's clean energy goals. Read more:  https://lnkd.in/gugCNKv7 🌳Ecologists help save ancient sequoia trees with "prescribed fires" Decades of intentional fire management in Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove have proven to be a lifesaver for ancient sequoia trees, shielding them from the devastating Washburn Fire. This success demonstrates the critical role of prescribed burns—an age-old practice rooted in Indigenous traditions—in reducing wildfire intensity and protecting vulnerable ecosystems. By showcasing their effectiveness, this approach offers a blueprint for scaling these methods to combat the growing threat of catastrophic wildfires. Read more: https://lnkd.in/d6yFnJ3m

When I started the Heartfeldt Foundation - I knew I wanted to make a difference. The plan was clear: support sustainability, promote a conscious lifestyle, and give back to the planet. But what I didn’t realize was how much this journey would impact *me*. One of our first big projects was a plastic cleanup campaign. Simple in theory, right? Gather volunteers, clean up, spread awareness. But on the day of our first event, I found myself standing by the shore, seeing heaps of plastic that stretched as far as I could see. It was overwhelming. I remember thinking, “Is this really just a drop in the ocean?" And then, as I started working alongside our volunteers—people of all ages, backgrounds, and stories—I realized it was about more than just the plastic. It was about people coming together for a shared purpose, finding a moment of connection in the midst of the chaos. That day, I promised myself that the Heartfeldt Foundation would be about more than just “doing good.” It would be about empowering others to make a change, even if that change seems small in the grand scheme of things. Now, every campaign, every initiative we take on—it’s not just a project. It’s a reminder of why I started this in the first place. To show that every small action matters and every person who joins us becomes part of something bigger. Ever taken on a cause and found yourself changed by it? PS: We're currently cleaning up rivers in India. Every €12,50 donated removes 10 kilograms of plastic from the waters. If you have anything to spare, please help us achieve our goal at https://lnkd.in/eqi6AeyC.

🚘Paris follows major European cities with introduction of car-free zones - and residents don't notice Paris is implementing car-free zones, aiming to tackle air and noise pollution in its central districts. The new limited traffic zone (ZTL) covers a 5.5 square kilometer area, allowing only essential vehicles and residents to drive through. While the initiative promises cleaner air and reduced traffic on busy streets like Avenue de l'Opéra, many Parisians remain unfazed, highlighting the city's extensive public transit options. As the ZTL takes effect, it reflects a broader European shift toward sustainable urban living and reclaiming city spaces for pedestrians and cyclists. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dpdCBcQn. 🐋Australia expands marine park near Antarctica Australia has made a significant move to protect marine biodiversity by expanding the Heard and McDonald Islands marine park near Antarctica. The new protected zone adds 310,000 square kilometers, safeguarding critical habitats for penguins, seals, and seabirds in one of the world's most pristine ecosystems. This decision contributes to Australia’s commitment to protecting 30% of its oceans under a UN treaty, with over half now under marine protection. While conservation groups applauded the measure, they urge further action to safeguard adjacent feeding grounds threatened by climate change and human activities. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dudsRqYi 🪫Mercedes-Benz opens battery recycling plant for a circular future Mercedes-Benz's new battery recycling plant in Germany is a significant step toward circular economy practices in the automotive industry. By recovering up to 96% of critical materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt, the facility reduces dependence on mining and lowers the environmental footprint of battery production. This initiative addresses Europe's stricter recycling regulations, for more sustainable electric vehicle production. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dQueHKzd 🪸World’s largest coral found in the Pacific The discovery of the world’s largest coral in the Solomon Islands, measuring 34 meters wide and potentially over 300 years old, is a remarkable win for marine conservation. Found in deeper waters, the coral's health and resilience offer a beacon of hope amid the global coral crisis caused by climate change. Acting as a habitat for diverse marine life, this coral not only highlights the Solomon Islands' rich biodiversity but also underscores the urgent need for climate action and sustainable practices to protect such invaluable ecosystems. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eDEgUmxr

Amid global challenges, there’s some great progress being made for our planet! Let’s celebrate these wins and keep pushing for more! 💪🌱 Which story inspires you most? Let us know! 👇💚 ☀️Las Vegas makes shift toward sustainability Once known for excess, Las Vegas is transforming into a sustainability leader through major investments in solar power, water conservation, and waste management. Since 2005, the city’s initiatives have reduced water use and boosted renewable energy, with MGM Resorts’ 100-megawatt solar array powering 11 properties and Resorts World Hotel fully operating on renewables. Read more: https://lnkd.in/g9cbGya8 🩺Europe’s medical schools to give more training on diseases linked to climate crisis In response to the climate crisis, European medical schools are expanding their curriculum to include diseases like dengue, malaria, and heatstroke, which are becoming more common due to global warming. The new European Network on Climate & Health Education (Enche), led by the University of Glasgow, will train over 10,000 future doctors on climate-related health impacts and sustainable healthcare practices, such as "green prescribing" and advocating for environmentally friendly lifestyle changes. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ew_3ptY4 🪼Puerto Rico’s new marine reserve will protect more than 14 endangered species Puerto Rico’s new marine reserve, Jardines Submarinos de Vega Baja y Manatí, is a major win for conservation, protecting 77 square miles of critical marine biodiversity, including over 14 endangered species like the Greater Caribbean Manatee and one of the largest Elkhorn coral colonies in the Caribbean. After 16 years of grassroots efforts, local communities, environmental organizations, and authorities have established this marine protected area to preserve vital ecosystems, ensuring these waters remain a source of income, food, and environmental health. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dwdKSqKr 🦏India's one-horned Asian rhino population triples in four decades India’s one-horned Asian rhino population has nearly tripled in the past 40 years, rising from 1,500 to over 4,000, thanks to sustained conservation and anti-poaching efforts. Kaziranga National Park, home to 80% of these rhinos, has been pivotal in this recovery, highlighting the success of collaboration between forest departments and local communities. While these animals have made a remarkable comeback, they remain vulnerable due to ongoing threats from poaching, as their horns are still highly sought after in traditional medicine markets. Read more: https://lnkd.in/d_VSW-CE

Amid the recent waves of climate challenges, we’re here to share a reminder that positive progress is happening every day! 💪 Let’s stay inspired by the change-makers leading the way for a greener, healthier planet. 💚 And remember, we all have a part to play—sometimes, it’s as simple as staying informed. So dive in, let us know which story speaks to you, and share this with someone who needs a little good news today! 🌍💫 🧑🎓Mandatory climate education at UC San Diego equips students for a sustainable future Read more: https://lnkd.in/daYHFvbg 🧑⚖️California sues ExxonMobil for alleged decades of deception around plastic recycling Read more: https://lnkd.in/edmzKT26 ☀️Research shows: Solar farms offer a surprising boost to pollinators and agriculture Read more: https://lnkd.in/d25N2b89 🐦⬛‘Extinct’ Guam kingfisher takes flight again after nearly 40 years Read more: https://lnkd.in/dT9NzBW2

👚New California law requires fashion industry to take old clothes back for free This new law requiring the fashion industry to take back unwanted clothes for free is a significant step towards reducing textile waste and environmental harm. By mandating that companies establish collection sites for recycling and repurposing textiles, it tackles the problem of fast fashion waste, which often ends up in landfills or pollutes developing nations. This legislation sets an example of extended producer responsibility, promoting sustainable practices within the fashion industry. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dVTEgW4u. ☀️Switzerland to launch world-first solar panels on railway tracks for clean energy Switzerland's upcoming pilot project to install solar panels on railway tracks is a groundbreaking step in renewable energy. Set to generate clean power directly from train routes, this innovation repurposes existing infrastructure, offering a scalable, land-efficient model for sustainable energy. With potential global applications, this project could not only help meet Switzerland’s energy needs but also set a precedent for clean energy integration in transit systems worldwide, reducing dependency on land for solar installations. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dQDdEqJB. 🏞️12 global sites join IUCN's Green List for exemplary conservation The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has welcomed 12 new sites from six countries to its Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas, a benchmark for sustainable and effective conservation. This addition highlights efforts in Brazil, China, Colombia, France, Saudi Arabia, and Zambia to safeguard ecosystems and biodiversity, aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eZaFm9YN 🦜World’s first biodiversity bond launched in Colombia to protect natural ecosystems BBVA Colombia and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) introduced a pioneering $50 million biodiversity bond aimed at protecting Colombia's rich ecosystems while boosting sustainable economic development. The bond will fund critical projects such as reforestation, mangrove restoration, and climate-smart agriculture. With Colombia recognized as one of the most biodiverse countries globally, this initiative represents a significant step towards combining conservation with economic growth, offering a replicable model for sustainable finance worldwide. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dqaQaJsc

✨ This week’s good climate vibes are rolling in, as cozy as your favorite winter sweater! Which one is your favourite? Let us know in the comments! 🥗More California schools than ever are embracing vegan meals California schools are increasingly embracing vegan meals, driven by student demand and state funding programs. Offering plant-based options in schools reduces the environmental impact of animal agriculture, which is resource-intensive and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. With more than half of California's largest school districts now serving daily vegan options, this shift supports climate action while promoting healthier, sustainable eating habits for the next generation. Read more:  https://lnkd.in/d83CSbt4 💧Singapore's innovative water management secures future amid scarcity Singapore has developed an exemplary approach to water scarcity, using advanced technology in desalination, rainwater collection, and wastewater recycling. These sustainable methods allow Singapore to efficiently manage its water resources, making it less dependent on imports and better prepared for future challenges. This proactive strategy not only ensures water security but also provides a replicable model for other water-stressed regions worldwide, helping address climate change impacts. Read more:  https://lnkd.in/eAtKmqRr 🪸The US designates a new marine sanctuary led by Indigenous people The designation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary marks a significant environmental and cultural achievement. This new sanctuary, led by Indigenous groups, protects over 4,500 square miles of ocean off Central California, preserving a vibrant marine ecosystem and sacred Chumash sites. It demonstrates how Indigenous knowledge and co-management can play a critical role in addressing climate change and biodiversity conservation. It also sets a precedent for protecting natural areas while balancing renewable energy development like offshore wind farms. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eZ5Q66Vv 🦇Bats turn former coal mines into breeding ground in the UK A former coal mine site in Barnsley has been transformed into a crucial breeding ground for eight bat species, highlighting the potential of abandoned industrial areas for biodiversity conservation. This finding underscores the importance of preserving swarming sites, which are vital for bat populations, as bats play a key role in controlling insect populations and maintaining healthy ecosystems. The area's new Local Wildlife Status helps ensure its protection, supporting both the local environment and broader conservation efforts. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gtttD4Ky