We’re often surrounded by headlines filled with stress and negativity, but there’s so much good happening in the world too! In this week’s ASMR video, we’re diving into uplifting stories from around the globe:
🌍 Ireland’s Reverse Vending Machines: Encouraging recycling with a cash incentive.
💼 Iceland’s Four-Day Workweek: A transformative shift in work-life balance.
🦧 Sumatra’s Orangutan Bridges: Reconnecting fragmented forest habitats.
🥗 South Korea’s Composting Bins: A sustainable solution to food waste.
💍 Colombia’s Child Marriage Ban: A powerful step for girls’ rights.
💰 Somalia’s Debt Relief: $1 billion cancelled to support growth.
🌳 Bangkok’s Urban Forests: Tackling floods with nature.
🚆 UK’s Battery Trains: The future of sustainable travel.
Watch the full video to explore how these stories are shaping a brighter future!
Transcript:
Hello, and welcome to Ayesu ASMR. I’m Nicole, and today we’re diving into a soothing space filled with positivity and inspiration. This is a space created just for you to pause from the rush of everyday life. If you’re a busy professional or entrepreneur, use this moment to unwind. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee or stepping outside for fresh air, let this be your calm amidst the chaos. We share positive, uplifting stories to bring you peace—an alternative to the constant negativity of doom-scrolling and stressful news. Sit back, relax, and enjoy some good news. As you settle in, take a deep breath and let the calm wash over you. We’ve gathered some wonderful news from the second half of October, just for you. Let’s unwind together and celebrate the good in the world.
Let’s start with Ireland - in an effort to reduce waste and improve recycling rates, the country has launched its first bottle deposit return system using reverse vending machines. Since February, an astonishing 630 million empty cans and plastic bottles have been deposited at these machines - the biggest behavioural shift since the plastic bag tax was introduced in 2001. This innovative scheme has not only reduced litter on the streets, but also raised money for charity and even helped homeless people and children to raise small quantities of cash. By empowering citizens to take an active role in the circular economy, Ireland is contributing to a more sustainable future.
In Iceland, a historic trial of the four-day workweek has proven wildly successful. Employees reported lower stress and improved work-life balance, while companies saw no drop in productivity. The program might reshape how we approach work globally.
Moving to Sumatra, researchers have introduced canopy bridges to help critically endangered orangutans cross fragmented forest areas. Roads and deforestation have isolated these primates, but these innovative bridges reconnect their habitats and improve their chances of survival.
In South Korea, the government is tackling food waste head-on with automated composting bins. These machines reduce waste volume by 90%, turning scraps into fertiliser. It’s part of a nationwide effort to achieve greener living.
Next, in Colombia, lawmakers have voted to outlaw child marriage, declaring, “They’re girls, not wives.” This monumental change ensures that no child under 18 can legally marry, protecting thousands of vulnerable girls from exploitation.
Somalia also reached a major milestone: the U.S. has cancelled over $1 billion in debt, paving the way for the country to access funds for development. This is part of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative, which seeks to relieve debt burdens and support struggling nations.
Bangkok is planting urban forests to combat worsening floods caused by climate change. These green spaces absorb excess water and provide shade, cooling the city while offering a natural solution to its environmental challenges.
Finally, in the UK, the first intercity battery train trial has been a success. The train runs on battery power, offering a sustainable alternative to diesel trains. It’s a promising step towards greener transportation systems.
Thank you for joining me on this peaceful journey through positive news.
As always, it’s a privilege to share these uplifting stories that highlight progress and hope from around the world.
I hope they’ve brought a sense of calm and inspiration to your day.
Remember, amidst the busyness of life, taking a moment to appreciate the good can make all the difference.
If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing and sharing it with a friend.
Until next time, stay positive, stay inspired, and take care.
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