All Environment
- Cover StoryPower pivot: What happens in states where wind dethrones King Coal?
In an age of global warming, coal consumption is dropping and renewable energy is rising. Nowhere is that trend more evident than in Wyoming.
- First LookFirefighters stretched thin as dozens of California fires spread
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency and ordered thousands to evacuate as firefighters scrambled to contain wildfires amid a heat wave and lightning.
- First LookWhat a controversial oil and gas leasing plan means for Alaskans
The Trump administration approved an oil and gas leasing plan in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Environmentalists worry about the plan's impact on wildlife, but Gov. Mike Dunleavy called it "a milestone in Alaska's ... new energy frontier."
- First LookWhy some oil companies oppose Trump's methane check rollback
The Trump administration has authorized the rollback of an Obama-era rule designed to limit methane leaks, a change environmental advocates say is illegal. Small oil and gas operators support the move, but major companies who were already exceeding the rule's requirements oppose it.
- In the Tongass, a tussle over Alaska’s identity
A U.S. Forest Service rule limiting new roads is set to be lifted for Alaska’s Tongass National Forest. But few say it will bring back logging.
- First LookDerecho damage: Rare storm leaves mass blackouts in Midwest
Clocking 100 mph winds, one of the most powerful derechoes in recent history injured several people and left a trail of destruction as it swept through multiple states. At least one mayor has declared a civil emergency.
- First LookIsaias, Bertha, who's next? 2020 hurricane forecast revised.
The 2020 hurricane season could be one of the more active seasons on record with twice as much storm activity as a normal year, forecasters say. The NOAA increased the chance of an above average hurricane season from 60% to 85%.
- The ExplainerTrump’s environmental rollbacks: A four-year tide of regulatory change
From climate change to endangered species, our timeline and charts chronicle sweeping changes under President Trump that could have lasting effects.
- Can roadsides offer a beeline for pollinators?
A national network of highway departments and conservation groups are working to set aside the land on the sides of highways to protect pollinators.
- Is recycling broken? Don’t toss it out yet, say insiders.
The coronavirus pandemic and China’s 2018 ban on U.S. paper and plastic waste have dealt blows to the recycling industry. But recycling remains popular.
- First LookTo cut emissions, could you give up living in a large house?
A new study reports that U.S. homeowners' emissions vary between states, income brackets, and house sizes. For a greener future, buyers should get more compact houses in denser neighborhoods, researchers say.
- How COVID-19 changed the climate conversation
Governments could meet their climate commitments by spending post-coronavirus recovery budgets on green, low-CO2 economic projects. Will they?
- First LookEU electric cars sales keep on rolling despite virus, recession
The EU is moving ahead with a major shift in transportation to reduce carbon emissions – and even the coronavirus couldn’t stop the effort. Despite a recession, sales of electric and hybrid cars have held up better than the overall market.
- Migratory birds in the crosswinds of federal, state protections
A 2017 change to the century-old Migratory Bird Treaty Act has left individual states picking up the slack. One bright spot is Massachusetts.
- First LookClimate change is hitting home gardens. Here's how to adapt.
As weather becomes less predictable, experts urge gardeners to reassess their landscapes. They say to select plants that can survive warmer temperatures, handle irregular rain, and support local pollinators.
- First LookFishing for solutions: local Thai company recycles old nets
Old fishing nets in Thailand are often left to be washed into the sea, where they ensnare marine animals. But a local company has found a solution to the surplus of old nets by melting them down into protective gear that could help Thailand battle the coronavirus.
- Cover StoryConservation vs. copper: Minnesota town debates its future with a mine
A dispute over a proposed mine divides a Minnesota town. “Everyone is trying to do what they feel is right for their community and their family."
- Tourist treks helped save gorillas. What happens in lockdown?
COVID-19 has shuttered wildlife tourism, threatening endangered species and people who rely on the parks for income. Can the industry adapt?
- First LookFor people of color, a changing landscape in the great outdoors
Bird-watchers and nature-lovers of color are confronting the stereotype that the great outdoors isn't a space for them. History proves otherwise, they say, and despite challenges in diversity today, outdoor exploration should welcome people of all backgrounds.
- Untangling the ocean trash glut, one ‘ghost net’ at a time
The United Nations has warned that by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in the sea. One woman has made it her mission to reverse that trend.