Welcome to the Good News Roundup for June 2, 2025
Young Europeans are Ready to Press Pause on Smartphones
It seems many young people across Europe are growing tired of their smartphones and social media. A recent survey found that almost half would have preferred growing up without the internet, and many think a social media curfew after 10 p.m. sounds like a good idea.
This mindset is reflected in groups like The Offline Club, started by three Dutch friends who organise fun, phone-free events where people can connect, play games, and unwind, no screens allowed! With governments also considering limits, unplugging and slowing down might just be the next big thing.
You can read more about the offline movement here.
From Runner-Up to Champion: 13-Year-Old Claims the Spelling Bee Crown
In a heartwarming comeback, 13-year-old Faizan Zaki from Texas won the Scripps National Spelling Bee after a moment of overconfidence nearly cost him the title.
Last year’s runner-up, Faizan briefly stumbled but regained his composure to correctly spell éclaircissement and take the crown. His journey, marked by resilience, sportsmanship, and a touch of drama, was shared with eight other talented finalists who made this year’s Bee one to remember.
As the competition celebrates its 100th year and prepares to return to Washington, D.C. in 2026, it’s clear the future of spelling is in brilliant hands.
Read more about the inspiring highlights in The Age.
Buzzing breakthrough: Plants “hear” bees and sweeten nectar in response
Speaking of Bees, in a fascinating discovery profiled in The Gardian, scientists have found that plants can “hear” the buzzing of bees and respond by producing more and sweeter nectar.
Led by Prof Francesca Barbero, the study shows snapdragons react to the specific vibrations of pollinators like the snail-shell bee, enhancing both nectar volume and sugar content. This suggests plants play a more active role in attracting pollinators than previously thought.
The research opens eco-friendly possibilities for boosting crop pollination using sound. Could buzzing be the next tool in sustainable farming?
From Miles to Meaning: How One Runner’s Cup is Cleaning Up Race Day
For our final story this week: While running the 2019 California International Marathon, Kristina Smithe was struck by the overwhelming amount of waste she saw along the course, 150,000 single-use cups tossed aside by 9,000 runners.
Inspired to act, she launched Hiccup Earth offering reusable, flexible silicone cups that hydrate runners without harming the planet. Since 2021, her cups have been used at 137 races, preventing over 902,000 disposable cups from ending up in landfills.
Even better? Her custom washer cleans 1,500 cups using just 30 gallons of water! It’s a refreshing reminder that smart, sustainable ideas can go the distance.
Read the full article here.
