14 Happy News From Around the World That Can Make the Sun Shine a Little Brighter

As we know, there are 2 kinds of thought processes in the world. One views the glass as half empty, and the other sees it as half full. We, of course, look at the brighter side of everything, wanting to make the world a more joyful place. So, here are the best pieces of news we heard in 2022, which warmed our hearts and made us smile.

1. Scientists found a way to break down “forever chemicals.”

Things like pesticides, among other manmade objects, contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, or forever chemicals, given that they are nearly impossible to break down in nature. But now, scientists have found a way to break these chemicals down using nothing more than water, a soap ingredient, and a common solvent.

2. Once-endangered humpback whales are now safe.

The global population of the Humpback whale has risen, enough for some countries to take it off the endangered list. While conservation efforts have paid off, it’s important to keep the focus on so that the happy news continues.

3. Scientists have possibly cured a woman of HIV.

A team of scientists might have cured a woman of HIV using stem cell transplant technology. Not only that, but scientists believe this treatment could help an expanding pool of people in the future. HIV vaccine trials also continue, showing that there may be a light at the end of the tunnel.

4. Mattel launched the Jane Goodall Barbie using recycled plastic.

Mattel unveiled the Jane Goodall Barbie, and 90% of the plastic in this doll is sourced from plastic in clogged waterways, making it an aspirational doll in more ways than one.

5. Plastic bags may soon be recycled.

One-third of the world’s plastics, like the ones used in plastic bags and shampoo bottles, are considered unrecyclable. But now, they might just get a new lease on life, given that scientists at the University of Berkeley have found a new way to recycle them.

6. Sales of gas-powered cars are in permanent decline.

After the sales of gasoline/diesel-powered vehicles (ICEVs) peaked in 2017, they have since been in decline, given that the progress of electric vehicles (EVs) has been faster than the world could predict. While getting clean electricity is also a major goal, as EVs increase on roads, emissions will naturally go down.

7. Single-use plastics are being phased out, globally.

Single-use plastic is being banned by governments all around the world. In some places, the ban is already in effect, in others, it’s in progress. Since most of these plastic items, like straws, earbud sticks, and more, are not recycled, banning them ensures less waste and pollution.

8. Men’s and women’s soccer teams will now be paid equally.

Across most of the world, gender pay disparity is a big issue, especially in sports. Earlier this May, the U.S. Soccer Federation announced its intention to pay the U.S. Men’s National Team and the U.S. Women’s National Team equally, eliminating the pay gap.

9. A blood marker in babies who are at higher risk for SIDS has been identified.

A team of researchers in Australia has identified a biomarker that could potentially lead to identifying infants who are more vulnerable to SIDS, thus leading to even greater steps in infant health.

10. New solar panels can generate electricity at night too.

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new kind of solar cell, one that can generate some amount of electricity at night as well. While it may not make the same amount as solar cells do when the sun is up, this simply shows how solar energy is at the precipice of bigger things.

11. Just 2 minutes of walking after eating can help your blood sugar.

If you want to stave off diabetes and level-out your blood sugar levels, walking for 2-5 minutes after a meal goes a long way, as does any kind of moderate activity. It’s also good to break your sitting time as much as possible — walking for 2-5 minutes after every 20-30 minutes of sitting improves cardiovascular health.

12. Patagonia founder gives away a $3 billion fortune.

Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard just gave away his multibillion-dollar business, and now all profits from this outdoor brand will go toward climate change. The company is now under the Patagonia Purpose Trust, and a nonprofit called Holdfast Collective, and all annual profits will go toward environmental causes.

13. The James Webb Telescope demystifies space.

From capturing images of an alien world to finding auroras on Jupiter, NASA’s James Webb Telescope is bringing space closer to us, one picture at a time.

14. Miss Universe allows married women and mothers to compete.

Up to now, all Miss Universe contestants were supposed to be single, and winners were expected to remain so until the end of their tenure. For the first time, a contestant’s marital and parental status will no longer be regarded as a hindrance to participation in the beauty contest, as it now allows mothers and married women to participate.

Have you heard more good news that brightens your heart? What scoop from 2022 has made you the happiest?