It’s October, which means some of you might be feeling a little gloomy as we wave goodbye to summer. So, if you’re in need of a pick me up, our collection of positive climate news stories will be sure to brighten your day.

Google Maps to launch fuel efficiency routing feature for the UK

Google will soon be launching a new tool on their app which will highlight the most fuel-efficient way to get to a destination. This will help people to save money on petrol as well as reduce carbon emissions. The tool has already been rolled out in the US and Canada, which has helped them to cut 500,000 tonnes of carbon emissions!

Most endangered sea turtles found nesting after 75 years

The Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle is the world’s most endangered species of sea turtle and faces extinction due to pollution and climate change. They once thrived in the Gulf of Mexico, but their population has been dwindling since the 1900s. However, hatchlings have recently been discovered on the Chandeleur Islands in Louisiana for the first time in 75 years. The local coastal protection authority will aim to advance its conservation plans and habitat preservation following the discovery.

More than 100 free water fountains are installed in London

The mayor of London Sadiq Khan has teamed up with Thames Water to install more than 100 new water fountains in busy areas throughout the city. It’s thought that the average Londoner buys more than three plastic water bottles per week, which equates to a huge 175 bottles every year per person. Installing the fountains will help to cut down the amount of single-use plastic in the city and have already dispensed more than 730,000 litres so far. That’s the equivalent of 1.4 million plastic bottles!

Pinterest to power its offices with 100% renewable energy by 2023

The social media platform, which has offices around the globe, has pledged to switch to 100% renewable energy in all their offices by next year. The new change comes after they’re already trying to cut their on-site energy consumption and incorporate nature into the design of new buildings.

Scientists have trained dogs to sniff out dangerous invasive species

In lakes and rivers around the world, Carp have been wreaking havoc on local plant and animal species by taking over the ecosystem. However, scientists in Australia and New Zealand have been able to train dogs to sniff out the invasive fish species. It’s hoped that this will help to detect carp and other threatening species before their population grows too much. This can help conservation efforts around the globe.

Brazil to build the world’s biggest urban garden by 2024

The city of Rio de Janeiro is working with local favelas to build the biggest urban garden in the world. The initiative will cover an area the size of 15 football pitches, and link five different favelas together. The garden will grow organic vegetables and feed over 100,000 families a month.

We hope that you’ve enjoyed reading about all of the great climate change initiatives and conservation projects happening around the world. For more eco-friendly tips around sustainable living, follow us on social media @ForHousing.