Want a little good news?

As the new year begins, we have no shortage of work ahead — as individuals, as a nation, as co-dwellers upon this Earth.

Yet there is much to celebrate. The old adage “seek and ye shall find” applies to good news, so here’s a sample 10-er to keep us encouraged:

1. Energy: Scientists have invented artificial “leaves” which convert carbon dioxide into efficient, inexpensive fuel. Research at several universities could solve clean energy and dwindling fossil fuel problems by mimicking photosynthesis (various news sources).

2. Children: U.S. infant mortality declined, while graduation rates increased between 1990 and 2010. Teen pregnancy rates also declined in the same period (Brookings).

3. Health insurance: Expenses are up, but so is access — the share of uninsured is at an all-time low (Census).

4. Economy: Job growth continues to look promising. Middle and low-incomes surged last year; median household income rose 5.2 percent to $56,500 (Census).

5. U.S. Poverty: About 3.5 million Americans climbed above the poverty rate, which dropped to 13.5 percent last year (Census).

6. Extreme poverty: People living in extreme poverty — severe deprivation of food, water, and shelter — is projected to dip below 10 percent of the global population in 2016. If trends continue, we’ll hit zero in 15 years, close to the 2030 goal set by the U.N. (World Bank).

7. Teen smoking: Underage smoking is steadily declining. Just over 4 percent of teens smoke, down from 13 percent in 2002. In the 18 to 25 category, 27 percent smoke, down from 40 percent in 2002. Regardless of age, smoking hit a record low of 15.1 percent in 2015 (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, CDC).

8. Inmate education: Pell Grants are now available to inmates taking college courses. Inmates with access to education are 43 percent less likely to reoffend upon release (AP, Rand).

9. Giving: In another record year for philanthropy, Americans gave $373 billion to charities last year, an increase of 4 percent. Most of that, 72 percent, is from individuals (National Philanthropic Trust).

10. Public service: Service careers have become more popular among college grads. Almost one-fifth said they were seeking public service work in government or nonprofits, up from 13 percent in 2013 (The Monitor Weekly).

That spirit of giving and interconnectedness may be the best cause for hope.

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Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Contact her at [email protected].