We spend a lot of time scanning Sunflower News feeds here, in support of various projects, and for one of them we capture good news each week. Here are some of our favorite stories we’ve seen in the past week that we think you might find inspiring! These inspiring stories were found and summarized by Sunflower site Editor Orel Smith.
Have you found new projects or stories this week that have been particularly inspiring? Let us know in comments below! We’d love to see them.
National Parks Corridors Promote Biodiversity and Enhance Species Resilience
A new study explores the benefits of creating ecological corridors for large mammals between national parks. The study finds that these corridors would not only increase the population size of certain species, but also enable them to adapt to changing climate conditions by allowing them to migrate with ease.
Beaver Reintroduction: A Dual Approach to Enhancing Ecosystems and Food Production
Beavers will be reintroduced into an enclosed area in Hampshire, England, for the first time in four hundred years. Beavers are seen as a keystone species and play a critical role in supporting a functional ecosystem. This development is part of a plan to transform Ewhurst into an “edible landscape” that both restores nature and produces food.
Indigenous Forest Management is Key to Carbon Sequestration
A new report from the World Resources Institute finds that forests managed by Indigenous communities are more effective in carbon sequestration, absorbing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than forests controlled by non-Indigenous populations. For this reason, Indigenous forest management must be valued and prioritized.
Oregonians of Color Create Inclusive Outdoor Communities
Oregonians of color have formed outdoor recreation groups that focus on building relationships with other people of color while submersed in nature. These groups aim to increase the representation of people of color in the outdoors and provide a supportive environment for people who may not have felt welcome in traditional outdoor recreational spaces.
Indigenous-led Agrobiodiversity Cultivates Food Security
Indigenous and traditional knowledge is imperative to building sustainable and nutrient-dense food systems. This knowledge, specifically about crop plants and soil, is crucial to ensuring global food security. To build a resilient global food system, there must be an increased recognition and utilization of Indigenous agricultural expertise, with Indigenous communities actively participating and benefiting from related research and developments.