Landback and Steps Forward in This Week’s Earth Optimism

These stories celebrate success, uncover a spark of hope, share a new idea, or might just make you feel good about Planet Earth.

Cat Kutz

February 4, 2022

A Landback Win

The InterTribal Sinkyone Wilderness Council, a group of tribal nations, received over 500 acres of redwood forest in California in a step forward for the landback movement. Read More Than 500 Acres of Redwood Forest Returned to Indigenous Tribes in Smithsonian Magazine to discover more about the land and how its historical owners will protect it.

Saving a Salamander

Thanks to local conservation efforts, Frosted flatwoods salamanders (Ambystoma cingulatum) are mounting a comeback in Georgia after suffering dramatic habitat loss and population declines. Find out more about this species and the people trying to save it in A Win in the Work to Save a Super-Rare Georgia Animal.

Energy Progress

Thanks to new energy laws and efficiency goals in some U.S. states, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy has documented that parts of the nation are making progress on clean energy. Learn more about how 2021 Was a Landmark Year for Energy Efficiency Legislation in U.S. States in Grist.

Combatting Eco-Anxiety

As climate threats increase, more people feel demotivated and worried about the future and develop “eco-anxiety.” But to tackle these threats, people need to feel like they can make a difference: “This is why conquering climate anxiety is so important: Optimism helps.” Is the Fear of Climate Change Keeping You up at Night? How to Cope With Eco-Anxiety is a good read (and a great reminder of why movements like Earth Optimism are so critical!) in Good Housekeeping.

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And in case you missed it – we are on month 2 of the Earth Optimism Book of the Month series – check out February’s pick and join our reading club!