Drone images give hope for return of kelp on U.S. West coast

Good News Notes: “Tranquil images of the Pacific Ocean taken by a drone show that California’s kelp forests may be making a comeback after years of depletion, bringing good news in the fight against climate change. Kelp, which reduces global warming by soaking up carbon dioxide from the air via photosynthesis, has died off dramatically…

Scientists create artificial plant that could spell the end of fossil fuels

Good News Notes: “A new device which mimics the ability of plants to photosynthesise could hasten the transition away from fossil fuels, say the Cambridge scientists who created it. The test unit converts light, carbon dioxide and water into a clean and stable fuel that can either be used directly or converted into hydrogen. It operates…

Wound-healing patch of blue-green algae mends skin quickly

Good News Notes: “A skin patch made of living blue-green algae speeds up wound healing in mice, and may help to treat chronic wounds in people with diabetes. About a quarter of people with diabetes develop chronic wounds because they have poor circulation and other complications that make it harder for their skin to heal…

Mysterious glowing coral reefs are fighting to recover

Good News Notes: “A new study by the University of Southampton has revealed why some corals exhibit a dazzling colourful display, instead of turning white, when they suffer ‘coral bleaching’ – a condition which can devastate reefs and is caused by ocean warming. The scientists behind the research think this phenomenon is a sign that…