South Korea ends bear bile farming, Norway goes electric, UK protects children from junk food ads

January 07, 2026

Hello dear Good News community,

Just today, I noticed while standing at a pedestrian light how unpleasant cars smelling of gasoline are. If you pause for even a moment, you realize that this is neither good for the environment nor for our health. In most countries, the switch from gasoline to electric vehicles is still slow—but not in Norway. Last year, almost all newly registered cars in the country were electric.

Enjoy reading, Selina

(Abre numa nova janela)

South Korea ends bear bile farming

South Korea is sending a clear signal for animal welfare: starting in 2026, the country will ban the breeding and keeping of bears for bile extraction. This ends a decades-long practice long criticized by animal rights groups. Some of the first animals have already been relocated to protected areas. Source: EURONEWS

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Norway goes electric: new car registrations hit record

Almost all new cars registered in Norway in 2025 were fully electric—95.9%, and in December nearly 98%, according to official data from the Norwegian Road Federation (OFV). This significantly exceeds the country’s already high EV share of 88.9% in 2024. Source: REUTERS

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UK protects children from junk food ads

With a broad ban on junk food advertising, the UK government aims to better protect children from unhealthy foods. During the day, ads for chips, fries, and sweets disappear from TV, and online ads are removed entirely. Experts see this as an important step toward encouraging healthier eating habits from an early age. Source: BBC

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Thailand: Flat-headed cat rediscovered

Researchers in Thailand have rediscovered a wild cat thought to be extinct for 30 years. Camera traps have captured dozens of flat-headed cats – including kittens. The discovery gives hope that dedicated conservation efforts can make a difference. Source: SCIENCEALERT

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New toothpaste targets gum disease bacteria

A newly developed toothpaste from Germany targets gum disease more effectively than previous products. It selectively inhibits the main bacteria responsible for periodontitis without harming the healthy oral microbiome. The active ingredient was developed by researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute, and the toothpaste is now available on the market. Source: MEDICALXPRESS

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Galápagos rail: return of a lost species

Since Darwin’s visit in 1835, the Galápagos rail had vanished from Floreana – but it has now returned. The species made a surprising comeback after invasive predators were removed from the island, a rare example of how targeted conservation can succeed. Source: BBC

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Best regards,

Bianca Kriel & Selina Mahoche