From ambitious rewilding projects restoring biodiversity to communities coming together for Earth Hour to promote energy conservation, these positive climate news stories highlight the amazing collective efforts towards mitigating climate change and preserving our planet for generations to come.
1. The rewilding project bringing back an ancient breed of cattle to Portugal
Rewilding Portugal, a non-profit organisation whose mission is to create a wildlife corridor along the Côa River, have introduced a herd of large black and chestnut cattle to the Côa valley.
Known as tauros, these bovines are a specially bred version of the long-extinct auroch, the wild ancestor of the modern cow. It is hoped that as they graze and trample the soil, they'll redistribute seeds and nutrients, allowing biodiversity and wildlife to thrive.
Find out more on the BBC Future Planet website.
Sabrina Lee, a TV weather presenter, has set herself a challenge - to quit buying new clothes for the whole of 2024.
As well as being responsible for somewhere between 2% and 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the fashion sector also produces significant pollution, water extraction and biodiversity impacts, including 9% of annual microplastic losses to oceans, according to the UNEP.
"I don't want to be supporting fast fashion," said Sabrina. "I feel really good that I'm on this challenge, saving money and looking after the planet and ultimately I aim to educate others along the way. I'm looking after the environment while still looking good."
Find out more on the BBC website.
3. Iconic landmarks across the globe turn of lights for Earth Hour 2024
Major landmarks, businesses and households in cities around the world turned their lights off for one hour at 8.30pm local time on Saturday 23 March to raise awareness of the climate crisis and show support for renewable energy
4. The French town making its cemetery a source of solar energy
Saint-Joachim, a French town, is installing a canopy of solar panels over its cemetery that will distribute energy to local residents.
Most energy initiatives take a top-down approach, but the Saint-Joachim cemetery project is co-built by the citizens. Locals were contacted with a letter asking for their views and 97 per cent were in favour.
In the town of around 4,000 people, some 420 residents have officially registered their interest in joining the project. For an entry fee of just €5, they will eventually have a share in the energy it produces.
Find out more on the Euronews website.
5. Rise in endangered bird species numbers after trial
Protective fencing will again be installed in a field where endangered birds are known to nest and raise their young.
Trials over the last three years at St Mary's Lands in Warwick show a rise in numbers of ground nesting birds, such as skylarks, returning to the fields each year.
Warwick District Council will reinstate temporary protective fencing around an area known as the Lammas Field from 26 February until the end of August.
Find out more on the BBC website.
By Eveline Vouillemin ©
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