The New Year of 2025 is upon us, and as we look back on 2024, we are happy to recall the positive events that brought joy and hope to many people around the world. From new scientific discoveries to overwhelming acts of kindness, there’s a lot going on in 2024. solar electrification Scenes from a remote village and celebrations of National Space Day.
Across the world, the discovery of plastic-decomposing worms and the UK’s leap towards a coal-free energy system highlight our commitment to a sustainable future. Not only these, but also personal achievements, such as Mikal Bridges realizing his dream of teaching and Gukesh becoming the youngest world chess champion, have inspired many. As a brief recap, here are ten good news for 2024
India’s first solar-powered remote village
Masali village in Banaskantha district of Gujarat has become India’s first border village to be powered entirely by solar energy. Located about 40 kilometers from the Pakistan border, the scheme in Masali is worth Rs 11.6 crore and currently provides 225.5 kilowatts of power to 119 households. This new change, supported by subsidies and corporate social responsibility funding, significantly improves the quality of life of residents and sets a powerful example of sustainable living in rural communities.
Britain becomes a coal-free country
The closure of Britain’s last coal-fired power station – Ratcliffe Sole Power Station in Nottinghamshire – marks the end of an era. The shutdown makes the UK the first G7 country to go coal-free. The transformation from coal began in early 2012, when coal accounted for nearly 40% of UK electricity generation. Over the next 12 years, the UK rapidly reduced its reliance on coal and replaced it with wind and solar power. By 2023, wind and solar power will account for 34% of UK electricity, while coal’s share will fall to zero.
Plastic-decomposing worms discovered
Scientists have discovered that the larvae of a Kenyan mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus, are able to digest plastic, specifically polystyrene. Fathiya Khamis, a senior scientist at the International Center for Insect Physiology and Ecology, discovered this ability in the worms. Mealworms contain enzymes that break down polystyrene, a common contaminant in products such as Styrofoam.
NBA star fulfills his teaching dream
NBA player Mikal Bridges spent a day teaching at a Brooklyn school, fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. He interacts with students, shares life lessons, and teaches them the importance of education and perseverance. His dedication to community service and passion for teaching inspired students and educators alike.
Gukesh becomes youngest world chess champion
Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju made history when he became the youngest world chess champion at the age of 18. Defeated Chinese player Ding Liren. Gukesh won with a score of 7.5-6.5, surpassing Kasparov’s record. His impressive results inspired many people.
5-week-old little penguin rescued
A five-week-old little blue penguin (known locally as kororā) was rescued from the runway at Wellington Airport in New Zealand. Airport staff carried out rescue operations that brought smiles to many people’s faces. The penguin was safely transported to Wellington Zoo for care and rehabilitation.
New progress in treatment of rare genetic diseases
Scientists have used nanotechnology to develop a new treatment for Fabry’s disease. Fabry disease is a rare genetic disorder caused by the accumulation of a specific type of fat in cells in the body, causing pain, kidney failure, heart problems and other complications. The treatment has shown effectiveness in preclinical studies, bringing hope to thousands of affected families.
India reaches space exploration milestone
India designated August 23 as its first National Space Day to celebrate the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon. The announcement of the Chandrayaan-4 mission also highlights India’s progress in space science and technology.
guardian angel on wheels
Lyn Story, a 64-year-old retiree from Fort Worth, Texas, spends her free time driving strangers to doctor’s appointments. She connects with people in need through the Nextdoor app, helping people like cancer patient Apryl Goodwin and legally blind Kevin Horrigan. Her selfless actions earned her the title “Guardian Angel.”
Rare whale spotted
A sei whale not seen for a century has been discovered off the coast of Patagonia, Argentina. This was made possible thanks to a global ban on commercial whaling and serves as a beacon of hope for the species’ revival. CONICET researchers attach satellite trackers to whales to monitor their migrations
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