Welcome to the Good News Roundup for May 19, 2025
Could glittering poop be the secret weapon in the fight to save water voles from extinction?
It’s a very real theory being explored in Wales, where the small furry mammal is believed to have suffered a 90% population decline over the past 30 years.
Conservationists there are now feeding water voles edible, biodegradable glitter – commonly used in cake decoration – to track their movements via their droppings
As you can read here, it’s hoped researchers will learn more about the small creature and ultimately support the species’ recovery.
Connection key in rise of low-intensity fitness groups
Australia is seeing an increase in fitness activities that prioritise social connection over strenuous workouts, in the wake of the recent rise in social running clubs.
Gatherings like Salty Steps for beach walks, and Mum Miles Clubs for new mums, are based off the same principles of shared activities to help connect and combat isolation, but without the pressures associated with more intensive exercise.
Researchers in Queensland suggest the growing community involvement in these groups represents a shift away from traditional sports clubs and the extended commitment they often require.
Read more here.
New robot to help the elderly avoid fall injuries
A robot has been designed in the United States to support seniors in daily activities and prevent serious falls.
A team of engineers at MIT have created the Elderly Bodily Assistance Robot with a robotic handlebar that helps users with sitting, standing, and walking, and features rapid-deploying airbags to catch them if they begin to fall.
The robot is currently operated with a remote control, but as explained here, researchers are working to create a future version with autonomous operation.
Tunisian startup turning olive oil into biofuel
A Tunisian startup is transforming waste from the country’s lucrative olive oil harvest into eco-friendly fuel by converting byproducts into clean-burning briquettes.
Tunisia is expected to be the world’s third-largest olive oil producer this year, and the waste generated by the oil extraction is significant.
Bioheat uses a specially designed machine to turn the olive paste into long-burning fuel briquettes, which can be used to replace traditional firewood.
Read more here.
