Sunny Side Up: Your Monthly Dose of Happy News – Edition 10
Welcome back to another edition of Sunny Side Up, your feel-good roundup of uplifting stories from around the world. From wildlife conservation wins to bold climate action, we’re bringing you a collection of positive headlines guaranteed to brighten your day.
This month, we’re celebrating hopeful progress across the globe: Edinburgh Zoo welcomes an adorable new arrival, Amsterdam takes a stand on sustainability, and exciting conservation projects are helping protect some of the world’s most iconic wildlife. So grab a cup of tea, settle in and enjoy your monthly dose of happy news.
A new capybara resident in Edinburgh Zoo
There’s exciting news from Scotland as Edinburgh Zoo celebrates the arrival of its first capybara pup in 18 years. The tiny newcomer, affectionately nicknamed a “babybara”, has already captured hearts, with zoo staff closely monitoring the pup during these important early stages of development.
Capybaras, known for their calm nature and social personalities, are the world’s largest rodents and a favourite among visitors. The birth marks a significant milestone for the zoo and a positive step for the species’ conservation programme.
Amsterdam pulls the plug on meat and fossil fuel advertisement
Amsterdam is making headlines for its bold environmental action, becoming one of the first cities in the world to ban advertisements promoting fossil fuel products and high-carbon meat products.
The Dutch capital aims to become carbon neutral by 2050 and hopes to significantly reduce meat consumption over the coming decades. City officials say the move aligns public advertising spaces with Amsterdam’s wider climate goals and commitment to sustainability.
It’s a powerful example of how cities are beginning to rethink the role advertising plays in shaping public behaviour and environmental impact.
Reintroduction of the golden eagle to England’s skies
Plans are underway to reintroduce golden eagles to England, marking a major milestone for wildlife restoration efforts in the UK. Often referred to as the “king of birds,” golden eagles once soared across England before disappearing centuries ago.
Now, with £1 million in government funding pledged to support the initiative, conservationists hope to begin reintroductions as early as next year. If successful, the project could help restore biodiversity and reconnect people with one of Britain’s most iconic birds of prey.
Deforestation in Brazil's Atlantic Forest hits a 40-year low
There’s encouraging environmental news from Brazil, where deforestation in the Atlantic Forest has fallen to its lowest level since records began 40 years ago.
The Atlantic Forest is one of the world’s richest ecosystems and home to around 80% of Brazil’s population. In 2025, deforestation dropped to 8,658 hectares, the first time the figure has fallen below 10,000 hectares since monitoring began in 1985.
Conservation groups say the achievement highlights the impact of stronger environmental protections and growing awareness around forest preservation.
Australia’s new national park links habitat to protect koalas
Australia has announced the creation of the Great Koala National Park along the east coast of New South Wales, a major step forward in protecting one of the country’s most beloved animals.
The new protected area will help safeguard habitats for koalas as well as other threatened native species. Conservationists hope the park will provide vital protection against habitat loss and create stronger wildlife corridors for future generations.
With koala populations facing increasing pressure from climate change, bushfires and land clearing, many are calling this decision a turning point for conservation in Australia.
That’s all for this edition of Sunny Side Up!
Which story made you smile the most? Whether it’s conservation victories, climate progress, or heart-warming animal news, we love sharing the brighter side of what’s happening around the world. Stay tuned for the next edition, there’s always more good news on the horizon. ☀️