Good News in Under 5 Minutes: This Week’s Brightest Headlines - Week of July 21st
Welcome to the first edition of the Good News Breakfast Club, Good News in Under 5 Minutes, your new Monday morning ritual for starting the week on a hopeful note.
Each week, we’ll share real stories of progress from around the world. Not feel-good fluff, but credible wins that remind us: people everywhere are solving problems and building a better future.
Ready for your first dose? Let’s dive in.
🌍 Global Investment in Clean Energy Has Doubled in 2025
Here’s something big: according to the International Energy Agency, $2.2 trillion will be invested in clean energy so far this year. That’s twice as much as oil, gas, and coal investments.
Why this matters: Clean energy isn’t just a future goal anymore. Governments and industries are putting their money where it counts, toward cleaner grids, less pollution, and a more sustainable planet.
A quiet but powerful win.
📵 Dutch Phone Ban in Schools Having a ‘Wonderful Effect’
Research from the Netherlands this week shows that after schools banned smartphones in classrooms last year:
75% of 317 Dutch high schools surveyed say students’ focus has improved.
Nearly two-thirds report stronger social connections among students.
One-third noted better academic performance.
The nationwide ban, introduced in January 2024, has inspired other countries like France, Finland, and Hungary to follow suit. As Dutch education secretary Marielle Paul said:
“Less distraction, more attention to the lesson, and more social students – no more mobile phones in the classroom is having wonderful positive effects.”
Why it matters: In a world where constant notifications rule, this shows that simple, thoughtful policies can boost learning and human connection.
🏥 HIV Prevention Access Expanded Worldwide
In a major win for global healthcare announced last week, the Global Fund secured a deal to distribute the breakthrough HIV prevention drug lenacapavir to low- and middle-income countries. Previously limited to wealthier nations, this twice-yearly injection is now on track to reach millions more who need it.
Why it matters: This is equitable healthcare in action, giving everyone, everywhere, access to life-saving prevention.
🧪 Turning Plastic Waste into Painkillers
In Scotland, a team of scientists from the University of Edinburgh’s Wallace Lab engineered a common bacteria that can break down plastic bottles and convert them into a key ingredient for acetaminophen (paracetamol).
Why it matters: It’s still early research, but this opens doors to greener production methods and smarter recycling, transforming pollution into practical medicine. A small win with big potential.
And that’s your first plate of good news for the week.
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