All Environment
First LookScientists mystified by plummeting Antarctic ice levelsFloating ice off Antarctica steadily increased from 1979, before it hit a record high in 2014. But by 2017, annual average extent hit its lowest mark, completely erasing 35 years of gains.
Cover StoryWill climate change force this Alaska village to relocate?To the people of Quinhagak, Alaska, climate change is not a scenario far off in the future, but something they live with every day.
A reporter bids farewell to Exit GlacierSimon Montlake visited Alaska’s Exit Glacier, which has been rapidly beating a retreat thanks to global warming.
First LookGrowing pollution problem: Smoke from wildfiresMore predictions of wildfires in the Western U.S. are raising concerns about public health, scientists say. Local authorities are working to protect communities, and researchers are using satellite imagery to provide forecasts.
As the oceans acidify, these oyster farmers are fighting backHog Island Oyster Co., a company in Marshall, California, has partnered with the University of California, Davis to combat ocean acidification.
When water demand rises, this Montana town invests in forestsWhitefish, Montana, has adopted a ‘forest to faucets’ alternative to man-made water treatment systems, one that’s cheaper and more efficient.
First LookGiant telescope in Hawaii to be built on sacred volcanoThe Thirty Meter Telescope project will give researchers views of the farthest reaches of the universe, but critics protest the use of land sacred to Native Hawaiians.
First LookWant to cut down on food waste? There's an app for that.Across Europe, apps can help the environmentally aware cut down food waste and carbon emissions that come with it. Stores and restaurants post excess food sold for a discount at the end of the day that would otherwise be tossed out.
Glacier National Park’s name will outlive its glaciersAs climate change melts the glaciers in Glacier National Park, how will these places most affected by climate change retain their identity?
First LookEndangered shorebirds threatened by rising Great LakesA rainy spring and overflowing Great Lakes are adding to the environmental strain on tiny piping plovers. If waters get too high, teams of professionals and volunteers work as nest security guards and emergency rescuers.
Habitat meets profit as ranchers restore native prairiesRestoring prairie pasture can improve water retention, provide wildlife habitat, and sequester carbon in the soil. It also can boost ranchers’ profit.
Why this company wants your old underwearWill recycling textiles save the planet? Buying less and wearing your clothes longer might accomplish more.
Road-melting heat becomes another part of the job for India’s day laborersRecord-breaking heat has driven many of India’s well-heeled into the comfort of air conditioning. But not everyone enjoys that luxury.
Cover StoryHow Baltimore is saving urban forests – and its cityConcerns about climate change and urbanization spur cities to plant and preserve trees. How Baltimore became a green model.
How T. rex can make you think about the futureWith a surprising dose of optimism, the Smithsonian's new fossil hall helps visitors put the concept of climate change into a deep time perspective.
FocusAlaska’s climate frontier: Anchorage to cut carbon emissions by 80%When it comes to taking action on climate change, Anchorage isn’t waiting around for federal – or even state – support.
A new indigenous environmental strategy: Buying the pipelineA Canada pipeline expansion has drawn protests from the First Nations. But an indigenous project is proposing buying the pipeline for the community.
First LookTornadoes surge in Midwest, set record for frequencyWith storms moving eastward, the Midwest is experiencing an unexpected increase in tornado activity. Tuesday marked the 12th straight day that at least eight tornadoes were reported in the U.S., breaking the record of 11 days set in 1980.
Call of the wild: Should Colorado bring back the wolf?Wolf advocates have crafted a ballot initiative proposal that, if approved, would direct the state wildlife agency to manage a reintroduction program.
Cash for trees: Homegrown carbon offset program bears fruitCarbon offsets are a key part of industrialized nations’ climate action plans. But what do they look like on the ground?
