September 29, 2025
Hello dear Good News community,
The trees are slowly shedding their leaves, and outdoors, people often use leaf blowers to manage the falling foliage. But this isn’t good for humans or nature: leaf blowers stir up fine dust that enters our lungs, and small animals lose their winter shelter. In Zurich, their use is now being restricted – a positive step. So sometimes, it’s better to just let the leaves lie.
Enjoy reading, Selina
NEWS OF THE DAY
(Opens in a new window)Vienna research makes blood cancer therapy more effective
Researchers in Vienna have improved CAR-T therapy for blood cancer. Using the CELLFIE platform, they cut genes from immune cells with a gene-editing tool and identified combinations that make the immune response stronger, longer-lasting, and more precise. This could fundamentally change the treatment. Source: EUREKALERT
Go to article (Opens in a new window)
Zurich bans gas-powered leaf blowers
With 61.7% of the vote, the citizens of Zurich approved a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers and vacuumers in gardens and public green spaces. Battery-powered devices will now only be allowed from October to December. The machines are not only dangerous for animals but also stir up fine dust. Source: DW
Go to article (Opens in a new window)
South Korea lifts tattoo ban for non-medical practitioners
South Korea has legalized tattooing for non-medical practitioners for the first time in over 30 years. Tattoo artists had long campaigned for the right to practice their profession without fear of prosecution or harassment. Previously, tattooists faced up to five years in prison and fines. The law still requires approval from the South Korean National Assembly. Source: BBC
Go to article (Opens in a new window)
AI designs viruses to fight multi-resistant bacteria
In the U.S., researchers have, for the first time, used artificial intelligence to design viruses that specifically target bacteria. The AI created the genome sequences for the bacteriophages, which were then synthesized. Initial tests show that the viruses effectively combat resistant E. coli strains—a potential breakthrough in the fight against multi-drug-resistant pathogens. Source: NATURE
Go to article (Opens in a new window)
Nigeria debates bill for more gender parity in parliament
In Nigeria, citizens are demanding more women in politics. Only five percent of lawmakers in Africa’s most populous country are female. Now, the parliament and government are discussing a law that would significantly increase the share of women. Protests and public debates are adding pressure. Source: PREMIUM TIMES NIGERIA
Go to article (Opens in a new window)
FIFA confirms first tournament for Afghan women refugee team
FIFA has announced that the Afghan women’s refugee football team will participate in an international tournament for the first time. The team was formed after the Taliban banned women’s sports in 2021, forcing many players to leave Afghanistan out of fear of persecution. Source: REUTERS
Go to article (Opens in a new window)
ON OUR OWN BEHALF
Only 2 days left – can we reach $2,000?
Thanks to your help, we’ve already surpassed our September goal – a huge thank-you to 228 supporters! 🥰 We still need just under €220 to reach the $2,000 mark. Every euro is reinvested into our work. Thank you, your Good News editorial team, Bianca & Selina 🩷
(Opens in a new window)❣️ Thank you to all 228 supporters in september!
Good News is largely financed by the voluntary contributions of its users. We are a non-profit organisation and all income is reinvested. Thanks to your voluntary contributions, we are able to cover a large part of our staff and production costs.
🩷 We hope that with our hand-picked daily edition, we have been able to motivate you to initiate and promote positive change yourself.
💌 If you know someone who would enjoy receiving this newsletter, please forward this email to them to sign up (Opens in a new window).
📲 Download our Good News app (Opens in a new window) .
Best regards,
Bianca Kriel & Selina Mahoche
Date
September 29, 2025