Good News for Humankind

The world’s latest milestones for climate, justice, peace, health, and more

August 12 – 18 2024 C.E.

---

Hi all,

Thanks for responding to the survey last week. The results were clear. More than half of you prefer ten stories every week. So we will stick with that.

I also got a few notes encouraging me to do whatever is best for my well-being and workload. So kind of you! I promise I will take weeks off when I need to.

Along those lines, as is becoming my norm in August, I’ve been taking a lot more space for myself and my family this month. This has resulted in several abbreviated versions of this newsletter, like the one below. We will get back into the usual rhythm once the summer settles down a bit (i.e. when the kids are back in school).

Have a great week,
Peter

---

​Madagascar’s mangroves are rebounding after decades of deforestation​

A new analysis of satellite imagery dating as far back as 1972 reveals that mangroves in Madagascar are rebounding after decades of deforestation. The island’s total mangrove cover is down 8% compared with 1972, but a closer look at the data shows that the rate of loss has been declining and even reversed in the last decade. Between 2009 and 2019, Madagascar’s mangrove cover increased by 5%, with mangrove forests expanding even more in protected areas — showing that conservation efforts are working.

---

​MIT scientists reverse opioid overdoses with ‘Narcan sensor’ implanted under skin​

In 2023, more than 100,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses. The most effective way to save someone who has overdosed is to administer a drug called naloxone, but help can’t always reach the person in time. Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women’s Hospital have developed a new device to address this problem. The device, about the size of a stick of gum, can be implanted under the skin. When it determines that an overdose has occurred, it rapidly pumps out a dose of naloxone.

---

​Puerto Rico bans hair discrimination​

Puerto Rico recently approved legislation forbidding discrimination against natural hair and protective hairstyles in both public and private organizations, marking a significant step forward in the fight against racial discrimination. The new rule reflects years of grassroots activism and the personal experiences of those who have encountered prejudice because of their natural hair, particularly in Afro-descendant groups.

---

​Kim Coco Iwamoto to become Hawaii’s first trans lawmaker​

Iwamoto is known for her progressive stance, having been recognized by former President Barack Obama for her work. She’s also been supported by groups mirroring U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders’ politics. She supports the Green New Deal, wants to increase funding of public education in the state, promotes mass reform of the criminal justice system, and aims to invest in affordable housing.

---

​Chinese drones to transport trash from Nepal’s Mount Everest​

Nepal is set to deploy Chinese-made drones to transport garbage from the slopes of Everest, marking the first time unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will be used commercially in the country’s high-altitude zones. This initiative announced by China’s leading drone manufacturer, Da Jiang Innovations aims to reduce the risks faced by Sherpas and improve waste management on the world’s tallest peak.

---

These milestones have been added to the ​Archive of Human Genius​ – our database of social change milestones – past, present & future.