Public News Service

In March, a study by the EPA and others used aerial surveys to assess hundreds of U.S. landfills. The research revealed significant discrepancies between reported emissions and actual emissions.<br />(Punyawee/Adobe Stock)

MI leads nation in toxic methane emissions from landfills

The Environmental Protection Agency is investigating underreported methane emissions from landfills nationwide, and a recent report names Michigan as …

The Tribal Climate Resilience Annual Awards Program is now accepting applications for 2024. Information is on the U.S. Department of the Interior's website. (Benjamin Simeneta)

MI tribe celebrates funding to combat climate change

It has been less than four months since Michigan's Gun Lake Tribe received grants totaling $4 million for its plans to fight climate change. Its …

Inflation Reduction Act investments of $500 million will go toward converting a General Motors plant in Lansing to produce electric vehicles. Nearly $158 million will go to a facility in Marysville. (JHVEPhoto/Adobe Stock)

EV industry praises federal investments in Michigan

Michigan's electric vehicle industry is praising the Biden administration for its latest investments in EV manufacturing and innovation. About $650 …

Line 5, an Enbridge pipeline that was built in 1953, runs for 645 miles from Wisconsin, under the Straits of Mackinac, through Michigan to Sarnia, Ontario. (Jorge Moro/Adobe Stock)

MI environmental group responds to pipeline enclosure appeal

A Michigan environmental group is addressing an appeal challenging the state's decision to approve the enclosure of the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline…

A Michigan Healthy Climate Plan recommendation is to meet a goal of 100% clean energy no later than 2050. (pinkrabbit/Adobe Stock)

MI empowers disadvantaged communities for clean energy

The effects of climate change often hit Michigan's most vulnerable communities hardest, prompting state environmental organizations to take action…

The transportation sector is the largest domestic source of carbon pollution in the U.S.<br />(Nischaporn/Adobe Stock)

Michigan leaders celebrate historic clean car standards

Leaders in Michigan are marking the historic new clean car standards, finalized by the Environmental Protection Agency. The final rule, Multi-…

Motor vehicle emissions contribute to ozone, particulate matter and air toxics, which are linked with premature death and other serious health impacts, including respiratory illness, cardiovascular problems and cancer. (rh2010/Adobe Stock)

EPA offers longer rollout for emissions rules on light-duty vehicles

The Environmental Protection Agency is setting stricter limits on vehicle tailpipe emissions through 2032 and giving automakers an additional three ye…

Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., who sits on the Senate Appropriations Committee, helped secure the funding for the Western Michigan University project. (VectorMine/Adobe Stock)

WMU secures $2.25 million grant for carbon capture research

Western Michigan University has gotten a significant funding boost, with a grant of more than $2 million from the U.S. Department of Energy. The …

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in four adults and almost 20% of children in the United States have a seasonal allergy. (Sandor Jackal/Adobe Stock)

How do allergies affect your mood? A Wayne State study hypothesizes

Michigan researchers are examining a possible link between high pollen counts or allergy days and worsening mental health and increased suicide risk…

Ice cover duration for Lake Michigan has declined by 22 days over the last 50 years. (Climate Central 2024)

Dwindling Great Lakes ice cover highlights troubling trend

The Great Lakes region has experienced record low ice cover this winter, and scientists said it is important to keep an eye on the warming trends…

According to the EPA, most EVs can be charged with a standard 120-volt (Level 1) outlet. To charge them more quickly, you can install a dedicated 240-volt (Level 2). (Mike Mareen/Adobe Stock)

Report: EV puts money back into Michigan drivers' pockets

Michigan is seeing growth in new electric-vehicle market share, and EV enthusiasts say lower prices are just part of their appeal. The latest …

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has the authority to cancel fishing seasons under part 411 of the state's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. The DNR notice said it is too soon to determine whether this year's cancelation will affect the harvest limit for next year. (sablin/Adobe Stock)

Black Lake sturgeon season cancelled due to mild temperatures

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced on Friday it is canceling the 2024 Black Lake sturgeon harvest due to warm temperatures and uns…

By 2030, more than one in five Americans will be at least 65 years old, and by 2050, the number of people age 60 and older globally is expected to double to more than 2 billion. (Halfpoint/Adobe Stock)

Study examines climate advocacy for seniors

While scientists say extreme climate changes are happening more frequently, a new study aims to link aging adults to it's risks and their potential …

The Department of Energy is revoking $37 million previously awarded to Ohio's six-turbine Icebreaker wind project, which has been in the works since 2009. (Adobe Stock)

Michigan and Great Lakes slow offshore wind collection

Offshore wind development in the Great Lakes region has had a turbulent history and faced many challenges. Initially considered a promising location …

The Peterbilt 520 EV, a fully electric garbage truck, made a test run in Portland, Ore., on Nov. 11, 2023. (scharfsinn86/Adobe Stock)

Heavy-duty trucks: Rolling toward electric power?

While lawmakers and environmental groups strive to lower vehicle emissions and the nation's carbon footprint, many truckers see unrealistic …

At least 33 different types of wetlands occur in Michigan. Twenty-six are considered rare because fewer than 100 are intact, Eight of the 26 rare wetland types are considered imperiled and at high risk of extinction. An additional three wetland types are considered critically imperiled and at very high risk of extinction. (rodimovpavel/Adobe Stock)

Wetlands ruling worries MI duck hunters

Michigan's duck-hunting season runs through January, and many enthusiasts are concerned about how plentiful their future quarry will be because of a …

According to Clean Jobs Midwest, 1.7 million homes are powered by the clean energy generated in Michigan, and the industry employs 123,983 people in the state. (pinkrabbit/Adobe Stock)

Sweeping clean energy bills passed in Michigan

New clean energy legislation in Michigan has passed and is heading to the governor's desk to be signed into law. Backers of the bills said they will …

In the America's Health Rankings report, Michigan ranks 18th among states for childhood immunizations, and 27th for kids getting preventive dental care. (tigercat_lpg/Adobe Stock)

Report shows uptick in mental health concerns for MI women

Michigan women have mental-health concerns at rates higher than the national average, according to a new report. The United Health Foundation …

Climate Change meteorologist Lauren Casey said Halloween pumpkins may rot sooner in the warm October temperature. (climatecentral.org)

Some MI families rethink their Halloween due to climate extremes

Tropical Storm Tammy has sprung back to life over the weekend, sending spooky fears of high winds for trick or treaters along the Eastern Seaboard…

The 2022 Citizens Utility Performance Report showed Michigan utilities have below-average performance on most metrics that measure the primary purposes of a utility. The report compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia. (kavindu/Adobe Stock)

Legislation weighs in on energy options to drive down costs for Michiganders

The Michigan Legislature is weighing bills to increase the state's energy efficiency standards as part of a broad clean energy and climate package…

Climate change board games emphasize teamwork and group success. Either all players win together, or no one survives. (pathdoc/Adobe Stock)

Climate change: Better understood through board games?

By Debra J. Rosenthal for The Conversation.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Michigan News Connection for the Public News Service-Conversation …

The EPA is proposing changes to the federal emission standards to ensure 67% of new light-duty vehicles and 25% of new heavy-duty trucks sold in the United States be electric by 2032. (Valeriia/Adobe Stock)

UAW strike continues: Officials say EPA standards must catch up

Amid the United Auto Workers strike, some advocates argued it is time to implement clean car standards. Gary Schlack, a city council member in Allen …

The Environmental Protection Agency is proposing standards to regulate emissions from five unmeasured fugitive and intermittent particulate sources. (Aaron/Adobe Stock)

Comments About EPA's Proposed Rules for Blast Furnaces End Today

Emission standards for blast furnaces such as the iron and steel mills in Michigan haven't been updated in years. The Environmental Protection …

Water Equals Life is a coalition of water justice advocates, environmental groups and social justice groups who have come together in a statewide campaign to ensure everyone's basic human need for access to clean, safe, and affordable water is met, regardless of income. (Bovart/Adobe Stock)

Michigan Residents Pay Among Highest Water Bills in U.S.

Michigan water rates have surged more than 40% since 2010, and it is a trend that's expected to continue as cities and utilities work to upgrade …

Fermi 2 is a 1,198 MWe General Electric boiling water reactor that began operations in 1985.(spiritofamerica/Adobe Stock)

DTE Energy Nuclear Plant Closed for Almost 3 Weeks

The Fermi 2 Nuclear Plant has been closed for repairs for almost three weeks. Local residents and advocacy groups in Monroe County are voicing …

An estimated 2.4 million people work on farms and ranches nationwide, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Census of Agriculture. (Stiefi/Adobe Stock)

No Heat Protections for Michigan Outdoor Workers

By Mónica Cordero, Investigate Midwest/Report for America and Eva Tesfaye, Harvest Public Media for Investigate Midwest.Broadcast version by …

Tesla, Chevrolet, Ford and Hyundai are the top four sellers of EVs in the United States. Chevrolet and Ford make theirs in Michigan. (uhdenis/Adobe Stock)

MI Makes Electric Vehicles. Are Michiganders Buying Them?

New car prices are dropping, with electric vehicle price tags leading the way. Will more drivers in Michigan decide to buy? Supply chain issues and …

Harmful algal blooms typically occur in Michigan during the summer months and can last well into the fall. (sunday_morning/Adobe Stock)

Watch for Harmful Algal Blooms in MI Recreational Waters

Michigan residents are being warned to be prepared for another season of harmful algal blooms in the Great Lakes. The Michigan Department of …

Route Zero Relay recently launched a nine-city tour starting in Los Angeles, California; and made a stop in Motor City, Detroit. The initiative centered around promoting a reduction in pollution from automobiles and more environmentally-friendly transportation and public policy across the country. (chartphoto/Adobe Stock)

Detroit Part of National Tour to Promote Electric Vehicles, New EPA Rules

Cleaner cars and lower emissions across Michigan and the nation are the goals of an event by environmental groups. They are calling attention to an …

According to the Lake Carriers' Association, the Great Lakes fleet moves more than 90 million tons of cargo annually. (icholakov/Adobe Stock)

Could Great Lakes’ Cargo Fleet 'Go Green?'

By Audrey Richardson for Great Lakes Echo.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Michigan News Connection reporting for Solutions Journalism-Public Ne…

DTE Energy's 52-year-old power station, one of the most polluting coal-fired plants in the country, is scheduled to be decommissioned by 2028. (Wikimedia Commons)

EPA Proposal Would Reduce Emissions from MI Coal Plants

The Environmental Protection Agency is tightening rules to limit emissions of mercury and other pollutants from coal-fired power plants. Experts say …

Ann Arbor's A2Zero program is designed to transform the city of 125,000 to carbon neutrality by 2030. (Adobe Stock)

Ann Arbor initiative Aims to Render the City Carbon Neutral by 2030

By Avery Schuyler Nunn for Grist.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Grist-Public News Service Collabo…

The Enbridge Line 5 pipeline carries oil and gas products from Canada to Michigan, where it is distributed across the Midwest. (Dragon Claws/Adobe Stock)

Feds Postpone Permit to Build Line 5 Tunnel Under Great Lakes

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced an 18-month delay in permitting a controversial oil-tunnel construction project under the Great Lakes…

Michigan environmental activists have begun to focus on environmental justice issues in low-income communities that bear the brunt of industrial pollution and political indifference. (Adobe Stock)

Environmental Activists Adopt New Tactics to Battle Michigan Polluters

By Tom Perkins for Planet Detroit.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Michigan News Connection with support from the Solutions Journalism Network…

Research shows that cooking with natural gas can emit toxic fumes such as methane and nitrogen dioxide into the home and the atmosphere. (malkovkosta/Adobe Stock)

Consumer Warning on Gas Stove Emissions Sparks Controversy

The health risks associated with gas-burning stoves have caused a recent stir and fears of a government ban on the appliances, but a Michigan …

About 6% of all cars sold in the United States in 2021 were battery-electric powered, but officials say the number of EVs is expected to grow to 25% by 2030. (ARHIT/Adobe Stock)<br />

Report Examines EV Impacts on MI Highway Maintenance, Funding

Most experts agree putting more electric vehicles on the road is a major step toward fighting climate change, but a new report says states will also …

One of the benefits of silvopasturing is to relieve grazing animals, such as cattle, from the perils of heat stress. (UllrichG/Adobe Stock)

Farmers Mix Trees, Crops, Livestock to Fight Climate Change

By Caroline Miller for Great Lakes Echo. Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Michigan News Service, reporting for Solutions Journalism/Public …

Jon Kent (kneeling) and a cadre of volunteers are raising vegetables and feeding the community from their urban farm at Charlevoix and Lakeview streets in East Detroit. (Sanctuary Farms)

Young Farmers of Color: Feed Detroit, Fight Injustice, Protect Climate

By Britny Cordera for Yes! Magazine.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-…

DTE Energy plans to switch its Belle River plant (above) from coal to fossil fuel in 2025 but could keep the facility in operation past the state's emissions deadline until 2040. (FracTrack Alliance/Flickr)

Activists: DTE Plan Won't Meet MI Renewable-Energy Goals

Michigan regulators have set long-term emission-reduction targets for the state's power utilities, but clean-energy advocates are concerned that one …

The EPA claims that the EES Coke Battery plant has emitted thousands of tons of sulfur dioxide annually beyond its permitted limit of 2,100 tons. (Wikipedia)<br />

Detroit Neighborhood in Court to Hold Industrial Polluter Accountable

Members of a Detroit-area community are intervening in an Environmental Protection Agency lawsuit against a DTE Energy subsidiary charged with dumping…

The Old Farmer's Almanac is predicting record-breaking winter temperatures and warns Michiganders to get ready to

Forecast: Cold, Snowy Winter Could Hit Michiganders in Their Wallets

Forecasters are predicting extreme cold and wet weather for Michigan and the upper Midwest this winter, and experts warn that high energy bills could …

This study finds conservatives and liberals alike underestimate the level of support for climate action among their fellow Americans. (Adobe Stock)

Study: Most Folks Underestimate Support for Climate Mitigation Policies

The political divide over climate change seems well entrenched, but a recent study suggests the conventional wisdom is wrong. The study, published …

The 26,000-foot Mackinac Bridge runs over the Straits of Mackinac, connecting Michigan's Upper Peninsula with the main part of the state. (Kenneth Kiefer/Adobe Stock)

MI Environmental Groups Oppose Oil Pipeline Project Under Great Lakes

The long-running feud between Canadian energy giant Enbridge and a coalition of Michigan environmentalists and tribal nations has reached another mile…

The biomass process, also called anaerobic digestion, uses waste products from farm animals and plants to extract methane and generate power. (Olivo/Adobe Stock)

MI Groups Call Biomass Proposal 'Flawed, Inefficient'

Environmental advocates are calling a Michigan proposal to use animal and industrial waste as a source of "renewable natural gas" for power generation…

According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, water levels in Lakes Michigan and Huron have risen during the last decade from around 577 feet to 582 feet. (Tada Images/Adobe Stock)

Inflation Reduction Act Provides Hope for Michigan's Climate-Change Policies

With the Inflation Reduction Act now law, many states are beginning to bring their climate goals to fruition. In the last decade, Michigan has seen …

A report from the USPS Office of the Inspector General finds while upfront costs for electric vehicles may be greater, the Postal Service would save money over time by deploying more EVs. (jetcityimage/Adobe Stock)

EV Advocates: Electrifying USPS Vehicles Benefits Workers, Communities

The U.S. Postal Service is buying nearly 85,000 new vehicles, and estimates about 40% of them will be electric vehicles. That includes 50,000 new …

One of the Consumers Energy goals is to tap 8,000 megawatts of solar power by 2040. (Adobe Stock)

MI's Largest Utility Plans to Close Coal Plants by 2025

Regulators have approved a plan from Michigan's largest utility to stop burning coal to generate energy by 2025. Consumers Energy aims to get more …

The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change notes that without drastic action, impacts from severe storms and flooding will continue to worsen. (Cory Seeman/Adobe Stock)

MI Group: Oil Pipeline Tunnel Plan Not In Sync with State's Climate Goals

This Earth Month, Michigan leaders took the opportunity to release a new roadmap for a carbon-neutral state economy by 2050. In addition to …

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - September 18, 2024

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MI: Climate Change