Climate Change/Air Quality / Public News Service

Snow-dependent Summit County, which boasts four world-class ski resorts, is working to remain economically viable in a warming climate. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Summit County aims to remain economically viable in warming climate

A county high in the Colorado Rockies is working to include its underserved residents in plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the primary driver …

A new report from the University of California-Santa Barbara says nature-based agriculture can reduce the environmental footprint of chemical-intensive agriculture and provide good jobs in rural areas. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Study: How AL farmers can cultivate resilience

It is estimated Alabama row-crop farmers could lose more than $236 million this year, with prices for cotton, soybeans, corn, peanuts and wheat all …

A new study from the University of California-Santa Barbara says nature-based agriculture can reduce the environmental footprint of chemical-intensive agriculture while providing good jobs in rural areas. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Research shows value of getting 'back to nature' on GA farms

A new study suggested getting "back to nature" in farming could help ward off the biggest impacts of climate change. As Georgia experiences more …

From 2008 to 2022, Connecticut received $337 million from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Report: CT spends RGGI funds on renewable energy

A new report showed how states such as Connecticut are allocating Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative funds. The report from the nonprofit Acadia …

A new report from the University of California-Santa Barbara argued nature-based agriculture can reduce the environmental footprint of fossil fuel-based, chemical-intensive agriculture while providing good jobs in rural areas. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Growing sustainable agriculture by investing in skilled workforce

As Colorado experiences more frequent extreme weather events, prolonged drought and loss of biodiversity because of a changing climate, farmers and …

Hanford is a decommissioned nuclear reactor site in Washington state, on the Columbia River. (jdoms/Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Nuclear energy proposal in NW 'distraction' from proven renewables

Interest in nuclear energy as a solution to "dirty" sources of power is growing, including a proposal in the Northwest. However, some critics say it …

In the U.S., outdoor air pollution is responsible for about one in 10 lung cancer cases. <br />(rusty elliott/Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Wayne State study links head, neck cancers to air pollution

Exposure to air pollution is a growing concern for public health and a breakthrough study from Wayne State University is shedding new light on its lin…

New nuclear-energy technology has been proposed but not yet built in the United States. (Ezume Images/Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Nuclear power proposal on Columbia River raises alarm

Interest in nuclear energy as a solution to "dirty" sources of power is growing, including a proposal in the Northwest. However, some critics said it …

The International Union for Conservation of Nature classified monarch butterflies as

Monday, December 2, 2024

Monarchs may join endangered list, highlighting FL's conservation needs

Monarch butterflies could soon be added to the federal Endangered Species list, with a decision expected by year's end. Eastern monarchs migrating …

In 2022, the International Union for Conservation of Nature added monarch butterflies to its Red List of Threatened Species, highlighting the significant decline in their populations because of habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Monarch butterflies may join federal Endangered Species List

Monarch butterflies could soon be added to the federal Endangered Species list, with a decision expected by year's end. Eastern monarchs, which …

From Sept. 1, 2023, to Sept. 23, 2024, influencers with more than 16 million combined total followers and subscribers made 183 total posts sharing climate and meat misinformation, nabbing 23.555 million views and 1,048,902 shares and likes, according to Climate Action Against Disinformation. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 2, 2024

Report: Right-wing influencers push meat, misinformation

By Jessica Scott-Reid for Sentient.Broadcast version by Kathryn Carley for Maine News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabora…

About 30% of agricultural methane emissions stem from manure storage. The other 70% comes from the digestive systems of livestock. (Adobe Stock)

CT, US take steps to mitigate methane emissions

By Seth Millstein for Sentient Climate.Broadcast version by Edwin J. Viera for Connecticut News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News …

The Rio Grande and its tributaries provide drinking water for about 13 million people in the United States and Mexico. (SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe Stock)

Lawsuit limbo over disputed NM, TX water rights

A delegation of New Mexico lawmakers is asking the federal government to quickly resolve long-standing litigation affecting water users in the Rio Gra…

According to the Florida Department of Agriculture, Florida ranks 15th among states in the number of farms, and 29th for the amount of land farmed in the state. (Adobe Stock)

Farmers, aquaculturists unite to protect Florida's land, water

For decades, Florida's upstream farmers and downstream aquaculturists have been at odds over water quality and environmental impacts. Now, the new …

AZ grandmother, a climate activist for decades, isn't slowing down

By Jessica Kutz for The 19th. Broadcast version by Alex Gonzalez for Arizona News Connection, reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public …

The International Union for Conservation of Nature listed monarch butterflies as

Monarch butterflies candidate for Endangered Species List

Monarch butterflies could be on the federal Endangered Species list by year's end. Eastern monarchs found in New York and other northeastern states …

A monarch butterfly can travel between 50 to 100 miles a day during its migration. (Derek Ramsey/Wikimedia Commons)

Are monarchs 'threatened enough?' Government soon decides

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is expected to decide soon whether to list the monarch butterfly as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act…

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Tips on spotting climate change misinformation and bias

By Jessica Scott-Reid for Sentient.Broadcast version by Nadia Ramlagan for Kentucky News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Col…

The Hispanic Access Foundation's wildfire management toolkit encourages families to proactively seek out local news and CalFire updates rather than waiting for evacuation orders from the authorities. (Hispanic Access Foundation)

Wildfire toolkit helps CA Hispanic families prepare

Low-income Latino communities often bear the brunt of wildfires, so the Hispanic Access Foundation offers a wildfire management toolkit and video …

The Illinois International Port District's top imports are sand and gravel, petroleum and metal products. (Adobe Stock)

EPA grants to fund IL port energy projects

Illinois, like many states, continues to seek innovative solutions for cleaner air. The Biden administration recently selected the Illinois …

One megawatt (MW) of electricity generated by a wind turbine in Wisconsin can typically power around 350 typical Wisconsin homes, according to Renew Wisconsin. (Adobe Stock)

Despite lag in WI wind energy, potential is high for takeoff

Wisconsin ranks 26th in the nation for wind energy, generating far less than neighboring states. Wisconsin has about 900 megawatts of installed …

West Virginia has the nation's third highest electricity costs as a percentage of household income, according to a 2022 report by Citizens Utility Board of Illinois. (Adobe Stock)

Grid operator's $14 billion in costs mean higher bills for WV residents

Major electric grid operator PJM Interconnection estimates it'll cost more than $14 billion to provide electricity for 2025-2026, up from $2.2 …

A Sierra Club report found offshore wind can save New Englanders $630,000,000 annually. (Adobe Stock)

Researchers studying CT’s offshore wind possibilities

Connecticut is the subject of an offshore wind study which aims to identify supply chain opportunities for the state and the Northeast region…

Jacques Beech saw his electric bill fall to $100 a month after installing solar panels on his Minneapolis home. (Photo courtesy Brad Stauffer for Energy News Network)

Mpls. solar nonprofit proves patience brings results to low-income residents

By Frank Jossi for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Pub…

In 2022, flash floods hit the hills of eastern Kentucky, leaving in their wake millions of dollars of devastation. (Adobe Stock)

Study looks at what causes flash floods in the Appalachian mountains

By Liz Carey for The Daily Yonder.Broadcast version by Nadia Ramlagan for Kentucky News Connection for the Daily Yonder-Public News Service Collaborat…

Pennsylvania will receive about more than $591 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to cap orphaned oil and gas wells and restore abandoned mine lands. (Funtay/Adobe)

Advocates: PA's climate progress threatened by 2nd Trump presidency

A Pennsylvania group warned progress on environmental protections could be at risk under a second term for President-elect Donald Trump. The state's …

Food systems are responsible for one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, with meat production, particularly beef, being a significant driver. (CanYalicn/Adobe Stock)

From Ohio to Azerbaijan: How COP29 could shape local farming

By Dawn Attride for Sentient.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration …

Meadville's Climate Action Plan includes a food project to help local vendors and farmers increase the affordable fresh produce they offer. And a farming incubator will allow residents access to larger plots of land and agricultural training. (Don/Adobed Stock)

Funding boosts 'green' projects in Meadville, PA

A small rural town in northwest Pennsylvania is using a combination of state and federal funds to implement "green" projects as part of its Climate Ac…

Since its founding, the CCA program has generated more than $2 billion for transportation and infrastructure upgrades, clean air and water initiatives, utility bill rebates, community solar, indoor air quality improvements and more. (Adobe Stock)

Coalition defeats repeal of WA Climate Act to save environment, jobs

On Election Day, a broad coalition of conservationists, labor, and others helped defeat a ballot initiative to repeal Washington State's Climate …

The nonprofit FracTracker Alliance has created an online map that shows the proximity of CO2 pipelines in Great Plains states to ecologically vulnerable areas and Indigenous lands. (Adobe Stock)

'FracTracker' maps pipeline effects on Indigenous land

A nonprofit group that tracks oil and gas development has created an interactive map to show how close CO2 pipelines in Great Plains states come to en…

A report from the Maryland Public Interest Research Group anticipates future emissions reductions will come from the transportation and industrial sectors. (Adobe Stock / AI-generated)

Report: MD leads nation in greenhouse gas reduction

New research finds Maryland leading the nation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental Protection Agency data show between 2005 and 2022…

A new analysis found solar and wind energy sources are much better poised to meet U.S. energy demands in the next decade than new nuclear technology. (maxdigi/Adobe Stock)

Analysis: New nuclear tech distracts from proven renewable energy

New nuclear power options are getting a lot of attention but analysts said the unproven options could distract from readily available renewable energy…

The Hoosier Environmental Council reports Indiana has more unlined coal ash pits that contaminate our groundwater than any other state in the nation. (Adobe stock)

Hoosier green goals at crossroads amid federal shifts

Indiana environmental advocates are facing uncertainties following the election. Changes in federal leadership could shift key environmental …

More than 8 million tons of cargo passes through the Port of Detroit annually, supporting more than 9,000 local direct jobs and more than $900 million in economic activity. (Detroit Wayne County Port Authority)

EPA grants $21.9M for MI port upgrades, emission planning

The Environmental Protection Agency is delivering more than $21.9 million to the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, aiming to provide a greener …

Built in 1953 and outlasting its original lifespan, Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline transports 22 million gallons of crude oil and natural gas liquids daily across 645 miles of terrain through Michigan and Wisconsin. (Adobe Stock)

Controversial Line 5 project faces more legal action in WI

A legal challenge is expected since the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has granted key permit approvals to a Canadian energy company to rer…

Funds from the Inflation Reduction Act are now flowing to help California families afford energy-efficient electric heat pumps. (Isengard/Adobe Stock)

New CA rebate program launched to cut home energy costs

A new rebate program could save California families up to $8,000 on an electric heat pump for home heating and cooling. The Home Electrification and …

The City of Seattle aims to cut all climate pollution by 2030. (CLShebley/Adobe Stock)

Green New Deal community assemblies in Seattle pioneer citizen involvement

Community members in Seattle had a unique opportunity to weigh in on the policies guiding the city's climate goals. In 2019, the City of Seattle …

Several Midwestern states, including North Dakota, have been looking over plans submitted by Summit Carbon Solutions for what's described as one of the largest carbon capture and storage projects in the world. (Adobe Stock)

Carbon pipeline debate reaches new stage after ND permit OK'd

More regulatory action is needed, but a controversial pipeline project in North Dakota is moving forward after a permit was approved last week…

$Short-term exposure to fracking pollutants can cause respiratory and other health issues, while long-term exposure, especially during pregnancy, is linked to birth defects and complications. (Aryfahmed/Adobe Stock)$

PA group fights for global treaty to end plastic pollution

An environmental group in Pennsylvania is among those backing a global plastics treaty set to be finalized by year's end. It is estimated 99% of …

Studies show nature-based outdoor learning has measurable socio-emotional, academic and physical health benefits for students. (Adobe Stock)<br />

ME counters learning loss with expanded outdoor programs

Maine educators are expanding outdoor learning opportunities to help build the next generation of environmental stewards. The state has unveiled a …

Wisconsin will receive $78 million over five years from the federal government to expand electric vehicle improvements. It plans to have all new charging stations up and running by 2025. (Adobe Stock)

WI makes innovative strides, but lags in EV adoption

Electric vehicles have seen a nationwide uptick, yet Wisconsin lags behind - with EVs making up only about 1% of all cars on the road. …

According to the South Dakota Secretary of State, South Dakota's Referred Law 21 was ousted by voters 59% to 41%. (Brent Coulter)<br />

Eminent domain reform could follow ousted SD pipeline law

In last week's election, South Dakota voters defeated the carbon pipeline law by a wide margin, but pipeline companies could still gain ground in …

According to a United Nations 2015 report, food system emissions were responsible for 18 billion tons of carbon dioxide, making up 34% of global emissions. (Prostock-studio/Adobe Stock)

Investors, activists both work to shape companies' climate goals

The food we consume is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, with beef production -- key to the fast food industry -- among …

Shareholders step up to shape climate goals in corporate world

By Grace Hussain for Sentient.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Commonwealth News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabor…

Virtual power plants, a microgrid connecting renewable energy with smart appliances, costs ratepayers 40% to 60% less than building and maintaining conventional coal or gas-powered plants. (Adobe Stock)

Creating virtual power plants for resiliency during extreme weather, wildfires

An electric cooperative supplying power to Western Colorado is pioneering energy independence for homes, businesses and farms. They are creating a …

Two solar projects now produce about 35% of Four Seasons' energy use. Solar arrays cover the entire roof of the company's Ephrata, Penn., warehouse. (Four Seasons Family of Companies)

Federal funds help power PA produce distributor's rooftop solar

By Sara Millhouse for Resource Rural.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Resource Rural-Public Ne…

In Connecticut, 818,000 electric vehicles are registered per 100,000 people. Nationally, between 2020 and 2023, EV sales grew from 300,000 to 1.6 million. (Adobe Stock)

Misconceptions keep CT drivers from getting EVs

Misinformation about electric vehicles is keeping more of them from being on Connecticut roads. Owners of the state's more than 31,000 registered …

Nearly half of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency budget goes into grants to state environmental programs, nonprofits, educational institutions and others. (Adobe Stock)

Environmental concerns rise in Florida after Trump picks Zeldin to lead EPA

Florida environmental advocates are concerned about the future after President-elect Donald Trump named former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin to lead…

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PNS Daily Newscast - December 4, 2024

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Climate Change

Summit County aims to remain economically viable in warming climate

Study: How AL farmers can cultivate resilience

Research shows value of getting 'back to nature' on GA farms

Report: CT spends RGGI funds on renewable energy

Growing sustainable agriculture by investing in skilled workforce

Nuclear energy proposal in NW 'distraction' from proven renewables

Wayne State study links head, neck cancers to air pollution

Nuclear power proposal on Columbia River raises alarm

Monarchs may join endangered list, highlighting FL's conservation needs

Monarch butterflies may join federal Endangered Species List

Report: Right-wing influencers push meat, misinformation

CT, US take steps to mitigate methane emissions

Lawsuit limbo over disputed NM, TX water rights

Farmers, aquaculturists unite to protect Florida's land, water

AZ grandmother, a climate activist for decades, isn't slowing down

Monarch butterflies candidate for Endangered Species List

Are monarchs 'threatened enough?' Government soon decides

Tips on spotting climate change misinformation and bias

Wildfire toolkit helps CA Hispanic families prepare

EPA grants to fund IL port energy projects

Despite lag in WI wind energy, potential is high for takeoff

Grid operator's $14 billion in costs mean higher bills for WV residents

Researchers studying CT’s offshore wind possibilities

Mpls. solar nonprofit proves patience brings results to low-income residents

Study looks at what causes flash floods in the Appalachian mountains

Advocates: PA's climate progress threatened by 2nd Trump presidency

From Ohio to Azerbaijan: How COP29 could shape local farming

Funding boosts 'green' projects in Meadville, PA

Coalition defeats repeal of WA Climate Act to save environment, jobs

'FracTracker' maps pipeline effects on Indigenous land

Report: MD leads nation in greenhouse gas reduction

Analysis: New nuclear tech distracts from proven renewable energy

Hoosier green goals at crossroads amid federal shifts

EPA grants $21.9M for MI port upgrades, emission planning

Controversial Line 5 project faces more legal action in WI

New CA rebate program launched to cut home energy costs

Green New Deal community assemblies in Seattle pioneer citizen involvement

Carbon pipeline debate reaches new stage after ND permit OK'd

PA group fights for global treaty to end plastic pollution

ME counters learning loss with expanded outdoor programs

WI makes innovative strides, but lags in EV adoption

Eminent domain reform could follow ousted SD pipeline law

Investors, activists both work to shape companies' climate goals

Shareholders step up to shape climate goals in corporate world

Creating virtual power plants for resiliency during extreme weather, wildfires

Federal funds help power PA produce distributor's rooftop solar

Misconceptions keep CT drivers from getting EVs

Environmental concerns rise in Florida after Trump picks Zeldin to lead EPA