Success: Otter Pet Trade Banned
Wild otters in Asia have been devastated by the exotic pet market, but a new ban on the cruel trade in these persecuted animals could save them. Thank CITES for finally putting an end to the otter pet trade.
Environment
Success: Cuba To Aid In Reef Protection
Cuba has drastically improved its fishing law to protect disappearing coral reefs. Reefs have been endangered for the past several years due to many factors, one of which is overfishing; these structures are vital to the survival and well-being of the ocean overall. Thank Cuba’s lawmakers for taking this important step to save these natural wonders.
Success: Authorization of Wildlife-Killing Cyanide Bombs Nixed
The EPA chose lethal poison over the health and lives of animals the agency should be protecting. Now, unified public outrage has put these poisonous traps back where they belong: in the trash bin of bad ideas. Applaud the end of deadly deregulation that would have killed thousands of wildlife.
Success: Rapid Biodiversity Loss to Be Officially Addressed
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species is meeting to tackle the growing problem of wildlife biodiversity loss. After many years of pollution, agriculture, industry, and hunting destroying many wildlife species and bringing others close to extinction, it is about time this important first step was taken to preserve wildlife and protect biodiversity. Thank CITES for taking this important step.
Success: California Curbs Runaway Car and Truck Pollution
Vehicle pollution just got dealt an important blow courtesy of California and four auto manufacturers. This partnership counters an imminent destructive rollback on clean air standards. Support these unlikely allies in their bid for environmental responsibility.
Success: Trump Barred From Blocking Critics on Twitter
President Trump has been barred by federal court from blocking his critics on Twitter. His demands to be able to do so were a major part of his war on free press and speech, a direct violation of the First Amendment, and he has been denied that privilege. Thank the Department of Justice for helping make this ban possible.
Success: Woodland Wildlife Finally Protected
Thousands of species of Australian wildlife as well as many acres of woodland have been granted the legal protection they sorely need. Australia has a staggering record of extinctions and endangerment among many iconic and beloved species, and this bold action is a huge step in preventing more. Praise this important step in animal conservation.
Success: City Goes Clean and Banishes Big Polluters
One of the nation’s most polluted cities is launching its own Green New Deal. A renewed commitment to slashing carbon emissions and utilizing more energy-efficient measures could pave the way to a cleaner, healthier city. Applaud this bright spot of proactive progression in environmental wellness.
Success: Wind Energy to Phase Out Toxic Fossil Fuels
One of the world’s most polluted countries has announced plans to switch to wind energy. Using a highly powered battery, they intend to capture energy from over 200 turbines and harness it to phase out fossil fuels and reduce air pollution. Support this commitment to renewable energy sources.
Success: Fresh Water Lake Protected From Pollutants
A fresh water lake has nearly recovered from its pollutant infestation, thanks to recently planted wetlands. This is only the beginning for local environmental advocates, though, as they continue their fight to save their town’s fresh water supply. Support these dedicated advocates as they take a stand against pollution.
Success: Sustainable Burial Alternative Legalized
Human composting, a green burial alternative, has just been legalized. This method has fewer negative effects on the environment than the current options and involves no chemicals, no coffin and none of the fossil fuels necessary for cremation. Show your appreciation for this revolutionary decision.
Success: Stolen Seal Pups Return Home
Thirty-seven seal pups were saved from unfathomable brutality and inhumane exploitation at the hands of eight accused animal traffickers. They happily returned to their homelands following rehabilitation. Celebrate this success and thank those who fought so valiantly to free these pups.
Success: Zoo to Combat Amphibian Endangerment
The near-extinct corroboree frog population may soon be restored, thanks to a bold conservation project. Thousands of corroboree eggs will be chilled and released into safe, disease-free conditions. Thank the Melbourne Zoo for this important step in preserving these amphibians.
Success: Dogs Trained to Detect Endangered Insects
Endangered Insects could be brought back from the brink of extinction, thanks to three dogs and a group of dedicated researchers. The dogs were successfully trained to detect the insects in their natural habitat, garnering data that could effectively save the species. Support this important step towards conservation success.
Success: Volunteers Remove Three Tons of Trash From Everest
Often called the “World’s Tallest Trash Heap,” Mt. Everest suffers every year from excessive hiking pollution. This spring, Nepal’s government sent a team of 14 to clean it up. Hauling out three tons of waste (and counting) is no small feat; let them know we value their efforts.
Success: Fracking Tsar Resigns
Fracking tsar Natascha Engle has resigned after six months, thanks to the continued protest of fracking by environmental groups and the general public. It is hoped that her resignation will be a major step in the complete shutdown of the fracking industry. Thank the Extinction Rebellion environmental group for their protests, which led to Engle’s resignation.
Success: Propane School Buses Reduce Air Pollution
A Missouri school district will be adding additional propane school buses to its fleet after seeing a significant reduction in air and noise pollution over the last five years. Propane, unlike diesel and gasoline, is a clean burning fuel which creates a cleaner and healthier environment for all. Praise this school district for taking a chance on this alternative fuel source.
Success: Lawmakers Embrace Bee Preservation
The state of Bavaria is becoming more bee-friendly, after a circulated petition gained nearly two million signatures. Europe’s bee populations have been declining rapidly over the last few years due to overuse of pesticides and the disappearance of flowering meadows, problems that will soon be addressed. Thank Bavaria for taking a big step in bee preservation.
Success: Shoe Designer Embraces Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
Adidas is continuing to be a role model in eco-friendly manufacturing. Most recently, they have pledged to reduce their CO2 emissions, eliminated plastic bags in their retail stores, and made plans to utilize recycled polyester. Praise their dedication to a healthier planet.
Success: Judge Restores Ban on Arctic and Atlantic Offshore Drilling
President Trump has waged a war against environmental progress, but his efforts at deconstructing previous protections suffered a significant blow. Commend the judicial system for striking down illegal offshore drilling.
Success: Toxic Pesticide Banned
The EU will officially ban the use of the fungicide chlorothalonil, the most used pesticide in the United Kingdom. The chemical has been linked to various forms of pollution and may be responsible for the decline in the world’s bee population. Praise this important step in cleaning up the UK’s pollution problem.
Success: Environment Protected by Fracking Ban
Fracking has been banned in Oregon while the government takes time to research the controversial practice. Thank the government for taking a stand to protect the environment.
Success: Amazon Being Protected from Deforestation
One government is taking immediate action against deforestation and illegal mining in the Amazon. Thank them for their efforts and demand other governments follow their lead.
Success: Lake Erie Granted Personhood
“A long, hard struggle” for the future of a Great Lake has yielded tremendous success. Celebrate the voter-affirmed protections for Lake Erie made possible by tireless volunteers and activists.
Success: Safer Pesticide Alternative Developed
Harmful chemical pesticides could be a problem of the past, thanks to a recent scientific development. Researchers have discovered a mutant bacteria capable of protecting plants without harming humans, animals, and the environment. Praise those who are making this progress possible.
