This June, good news about LGBTQIA+ rights was harder to find. Around the world, companies are scaling back diversity efforts, and queer visibility is under pressure. That’s why the images from Budapest feel especially powerful: despite a government ban, around 200,000 people filled the streets in the city’s largest Pride ever. On this last day of Pride Month, we see and celebrate every one of you!

Today’s good news is all about care — for each other, for animals, and for the planet. From Italy’s first hedgehog hospital to greener farewells in Maine, people are finding sustainable ways to make a difference. With promising research on dementia and tree disease, and cleaner air coming to Palma, there’s plenty to feel hopeful about. Wishing you an uplifting weekend!

From cancer treatment to climate action, researchers are finding smarter ways to reduce waste and make better use of our existing resources. A new DNA-based method developed in Madrid and Cambridge can predict how tumours will respond to chemotherapy, preventing ineffective treatments before they begin. Meanwhile, a global study shows that recycling food waste,can reduce emissions and free up farmland. In a promising laboratory experiment, scientists have also turned plastic waste into paracetamol. Enjoy the read!

Australia plans to open blood donation to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In Austria, sending unsolicited genital images—via email or social media—will become a punishable offense starting this September. Uzbekistan aims to revive the dried-up Aral Sea. And in the U.S., lab-grown salmon has been approved for sale for the first time. Enjoy the read!

Big change often requires bold action. Today’s news shows how structural decisions such as bans and court rulings can lead to genuine environmental progress: Spain is tackling wet wipe pollution and Indonesia has cancelled a risky mine project following legal pressure and public protest.

From global health commitments to grassroots activism and scientific breakthroughs, the end of the week brings a wave of encouraging news: The international community has adopted a new WHO plan to strengthen pandemic preparedness. Over one million Europeans are calling on the EU to ban conversion therapy. And in the fight against malaria, researchers have developed a new compound that kills the parasite directly inside mosquitoes – quickly, precisely, and with lasting impact. Enjoy your weekend!

Did you know that 89% of people worldwide support stronger climate action? Surprisingly, many don’t realize they’re in the majority. This week, we’re highlighting the 89 Percent Project, which aims to raise awareness of this shared concern. Experts believe that simply knowing one is not alone could create a social tipping point, helping to accelerate progress and encourage governments to respond more effectively.

Thank you for supporting Good News in February! Thanks to you, we are able to bring you Good News twice a week. Today we have climate news from Bristol, marine conservation updates from the Western Indian Ocean – and did you know that dogs can help save koalas by sniffing their poop?

Courts made history with two major rulings for the environment and animal welfare. In France, a court blocked a motorway project for the first time to protect nature. Meanwhile, in Mexico, the Supreme Court ordered better care for zoo elephant Ely, setting a new precedent for animal rights. These decisions are important steps towards a more sustainable and compassionate future. Enjoy more Good News from around the world!