Wondering what went right this week in the conservation world? We’ve got you covered with our Conservation Optimism Round-Up! Each week we are collating stories of optimism from around the globe so that you never miss your dose of Monday Motivation.

1. France has announced the expansion of its marine protected area in the Southern Indian Ocean

” The Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy Project today applauded France’s announcement that it will expand marine protections by about 1 million square kilometres (386,102 square miles) in the southern Indian Ocean. This move more than doubles France’s highly protected marine areas “

2. Taking Action for Twinflower

 “Twinflower (Linnaea Borealis) with its two beautiful bell-shaped flowers, is an icon of ancient Caledonian pinewoods. 2021 saw big steps being taken for one of Scotland’s smallest and most delicate native wildflowers thanks to the help of volunteers and land managers across the Cairngorms National Park. “

3. A mission to inspire budding conservationists

” Encouraging budding young environmentalists, the Marine Conservation Society is creating its Youth Ocean Network – a group who will help them move their mission forward in an inclusive and diverse way.”

4. Australia’s rainforest species gain ground through landscape linkages

” Corridors of planted rainforest trees — landscape linkages — are a straightforward, but costly, on-ground action that can repair past damage and bolster ecosystem resilience in Australia’s Wet Tropics region. The corridors are providing connectivity and additional habitat for a range of rainforest wildlife, including some threatened by climate change. In the Atherton Tablelands wildlife corridors, now in their third decade, the diversity of naturally regenerating plant species has increased, with trees, vines, rattans, shrubs, palms, ferns and orchids colonizing the planted sites.”

5. The Snow Leopard: Back from the Brink?

” Conservationists, insurance schemes and homestays have transformed the fortunes of one the world’s most endangered animals. Found in 12 Asian countries, there are currently estimated to be around 7,000-10,000 in the wild. This is double the number of about a decade ago.”

6. A new program in Canada gives doctors the option of prescribing national park visits

” A new program launched last month in Canada gives some doctors the option of providing patients with a free annual pass to the country’s national parks as part of an effort to increase access to nature and the health benefits to be found outside. “

7. Scientists’ secret weapon to monitor the Southern Ocean? Elephant seals

” Southern elephant seals living on Kerguelen Island, a sub-Antarctic island, are helping to gather information about the Southern Ocean with data-logging devices attached to their hair. For instance, the elephant seals have helped gather data on sea ice formation, ocean and ice shelf interactions, and frontal system dynamics. “

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