Optimism Roundup: Recycled fashion, restored forests, and revitalized oceans

Ground-breaking research by 2021 Earthshot Prize Finalist Pristine Seas has helped create a 48,000 km² marine sanctuary around the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean.

Their research uncovered thriving marine life, including record coral cover, abundant sea turtles, deep-sea sharks, and resilient fish populations. These findings highlight the global importance of these untouched ecosystems.

This vital data gave Marshallese conservation leaders the evidence needed to protect biodiversity while preserving the cultural heritage of the Marshallese people, who have relied on these waters for generations.

Pristine Seas’ work sets a powerful example of how researchers and governments can collaborate to safeguard the world’s oceans through science-driven action.

2023 Earthshot Prize Finalist Circ has partnered with fashion sustainability leaders Fashion for Good and Canopy to launch the Fiber Club.

This new textile recycling collaboration gives brands a clear path to adopting recycled materials, from sampling and pilot collections to long-term commitments.

The Fiber Club’s first material is Circ’s lyocell fibre, a biodegradable fabric made from wood pulp that provides a greener alternative to cotton and polyester.

Each year, the fashion industry discards 92 million tonnes of textiles, yet less than 1% is recycled into new clothing. By combining orders and streamlining supply chains, the Fiber Club aims to cut costs and complexity, making circular materials easier for brands to adopt at scale.

Earthshot Prize Nominee re.green is working with Microsoft, a Global Alliance Member, to expand forest restoration in Brazil. A new agreement adds 17,500 hectares to their efforts in the Amazon and Atlantic Forests, bringing the total to 33,000 hectares.

As these forests recover, they will store vast amounts of carbon, helping to combat climate change. Microsoft is backing this effort by purchasing 3.5 million tonnes of CO₂, reinforcing the role of nature-based solutions in cutting emissions. The restoration work will also boost biodiversity, reintroduce native species, and strengthen ecosystems.

Since May 2024, 4.4 million seedlings from 80 native species have been planted, restoring lost habitats and degraded land. Local communities are benefiting too, with over 230 jobs created in seed collection, native bee honey production, and wildfire prevention.

By scaling up their work, re.green and Microsoft are restoring forests while showing how large-scale ecosystem recovery can be achieved.

Earthshot Prize Nominee eBee completed over 700,000 deliveries in Kenya in 2024 using its growing fleet of electric bicycles. Each trip cuts emissions, reduces congestion, and moves us closer to cleaner, more sustainable cities.

More than 300 women and young people power eBee’s delivery network, turning sustainable mobility into opportunity. By providing stable jobs and affordable electric transport, eBee proves that green solutions can drive economic empowerment.

Electric bicycles are 2–3 times more affordable than petrol motorbikes and the most efficient choice for last-mile deliveries. With a goal of 1 million e-bikes on the road by 2030, eBee is paving the way for cleaner air, better jobs, and greener cities one ride at a time.

Earthshot Prize Nominee Planet Indonesia‘s conservation efforts have contributed to an 18% rise in wildlife encounters across the archipelago over the past ten years.

As one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, Indonesia is home to more species than nearly any other nation, including endangered animals like pangolins, gibbons, and macaques.

Planet Indonesia’s work has helped reduce poaching by 60% within just three years of partnering with local villages, leading to the recovery of species like the critically endangered Helmeted hornbill. Their innovative approach shows that when communities are engaged, both people and nature can thrive.

By combining long-term, community-driven solutions with cutting-edge technology like bioacoustics and AI, Planet Indonesia is leading the way in restoring ecosystems and safeguarding at-risk species for the future.