With climate protections being rolled back in some parts of the world and global temperatures edging closer to dangerous thresholds, environmental anxiety has become a daily reality. Stories of extreme weather, biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse dominate the headlines, often leaving little room for optimism.
Yet January 2026 has offered a timely reminder that progress is still happening. Across science, policy and conservation, a series of positive environmental developments point to practical solutions, renewed political will and breakthroughs that could shape the years ahead.
Below are some of the most encouraging environmental stories of the first month of 2026.
Carbon-sucking fungi step into the spotlight
An overlooked but powerful ally in the fight against climate change has taken centre stage. Evolutionary biologist Toby Kiers was awarded the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement for her work on fungi that absorb and store carbon underground.
Often described as the “Nobel Prize for the environment”, the Tyler Prize recognises outstanding scientific contributions that benefit humanity. It comes with a $250,000 (€215,000) award.
Kiers’ research highlights the role of underground fungal networks in capturing carbon and storing it in soil for long periods, offering a natural and scalable tool in climate mitigation efforts that has so far been underestimated.
Coral reefs could help tackle global hunger
New research suggests coral reefs may play a critical role not only in biodiversity protection, but also in global food security.
According to findings from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, rebuilding coral fish stocks and managing them at sustainable levels is still feasible in many regions. In some cases, this could be achieved within six years.
The study argues that healthier reef ecosystems could significantly improve nutrition and help combat malnutrition in coastal communities that rely heavily on fish as a primary food source.
A rare whale shows signs of recovery
One of the world’s rarest whale species is showing cautious signs of recovery. The North Atlantic right whale has recorded a stronger birth season than in several recent years.
The population is currently estimated at around 384 individuals, and while experts stress that many more calves are needed to secure the species’ future, the recent increase offers a rare note of optimism after years of decline.
France’s ban on ‘forever chemicals’ comes into force
A major regulatory milestone took effect on 1 January 2026, as France implemented its ban on so-called “forever chemicals” – persistent pollutants linked to serious health risks.
The landmark legislation was passed in February 2025 following growing public concern and pressure, with more than 140,000 citizens urging lawmakers to act. The ban targets a range of products containing PFAS chemicals, marking one of the most decisive national crackdowns on these substances to date.
A different tone for the year ahead
From scientific breakthroughs beneath our feet to policy action at the national level, the opening month of 2026 has delivered concrete examples of progress at a time when environmental pessimism often feels overwhelming.
These developments do not erase the scale of the climate crisis. But they underline an essential point: solutions exist, momentum can build, and positive change is still possible – even in a warming world.
For a planet under pressure, January’s environmental news offers something increasingly precious: credible reasons for hope.