All Environment
- In a threatened Cambodian forest, hand-in-hand push to protect land and people
Cambodia's deforestation rate is one of the fastest in the world. That puts endangered animals at risk, as well as cultures that have long drawn on the forests for their livelihoods and traditions. But conservation initiatives may help protect these communities.
- First LookFrance looks to speed up wind power projects
France will announce steps this week to accelerate the installation of wind turbines. To date, only half of the authorized French onshore wind projects have been installed due to legal opposition from activists.
- First LookCongress raises concerns over Florida drilling exemption
Secretary Zinke's decision to remove Florida from a list of states being considered for offshore drilling has led some lawmakers to question whether the administration has violated federal law. Florida has not opposed the drilling measure, unlike several other states.
- First LookNYC looks to divest pension funds of fossil fuels
New York City officials will announce Wednesday plans to divest the city's five pension funds of approximately $5 billion in fossil fuel investments, citing climate change as their motivation.
- First LookUS breaks record for disaster cost: $306 billion
The United States had 16 disasters in 2017, with damage costs far exceeding the $215 billion record set in 2005. The increase in weather disasters is likely a result of climate change along with urban development decisions.
- First LookPeruvian herders use ancient technology to manage water for the future
Dams, canals, and reservoirs dating back 3,000 years ago are being revived by alpine herders in partnership with The Mountain Institute in order to more efficiently manage water for pastures and animals.
- First LookBritain considers 'latte levy' to limit coffee cup waste
In an effort to lessen paper waste in Britain, a committee of British lawmakers propose implementing a levy which would tax customers who used single-use coffee cups.
- First LookTrump's new offshore drilling plan poses environmental concerns
The Trump administration moved to vastly expand offshore drilling from the Atlantic to the Arctic oceans that would open 90 percent of the nation's offshore reserves to development by private companies.
- How France became a global leader in curbing food waste
France isn't an obvious frontrunner in food recovery, but new legislation has helped catapult the nation to the top of the 2017 Food Sustainability Index.
- First LookWashington achieves top sustainability certification for cities
Washington, D.C., has been recognized by LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for Cities as a model for sustainability.
- FocusWhy coal-rich Wyoming is investing big in wind power
Wind power is gaining ground in many conservative states across the American Plains, as residents begin to view investment in wind power as an economic opportunity rather than an ideological statement.
- Can 'super-corals' save the reefs?
Research suggests that some coral species will likely adapt to changing ocean conditions. But resilience may come at the cost of diversity.
- Why Americans are using a lot less water
The average American has cut daily use by 6 gallons. Efficiencies in states like California and Texas – which are experiencing droughts – can serve as models for other states to reduce consumption.
- First LookThe arrival of snowy owls wintering in northern US present unique opportunity for scientists
Every few years snowy owls come down from the Arctic to winter in the Northeastern US. This year, researchers are taking the opportunity to fit them with tracking devices to collect data and learn more about the reclusive birds.
- Drought-tolerant corn offers Uganda's farmers a lifeline
Farmers who have watched entire fields of corn wither in recent droughts are starting to experiment with new strains designed to endure the stress of prolonged dry seasons.
- In Ghana, a feminist push for fairer farming
Female farmers are often held back by higher barriers to funding, land, and materials. But when they're empowered, they're not the only ones who benefit.
- Can competing schools of elephant conservation find common ground?
Some elephant conservationists are calling for a total ban on ivory, while others argue that a regulated market would better protect the animals. Can the two sides cooperate?
- First LookInvestors aim to clean up corporate emissions in line with Paris agreement
Two years after the Paris Climate Agreement, investors are looking to involve corporations in the fight against climate change. Using their influence with the top 100 corporate greenhouse gas emitters, they hope to cut corporate emissions 80 percent by 2050.
- First LookWorld leaders and investors ramp up efforts to fight global warming at climate summit
French President Emmanuel Macron, along with the United Nations and the World Bank, hosts the One Planet Summit on the second anniversary of the Paris climate agreement, allowing world leaders to discuss and invest in solutions to global warming.
- FocusAfter the pledge: Scientists scramble to make politicians' climate goals a reality
As global leaders meet Tuesday in Paris for the One Planet Summit, the world is waking up to the reality that achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement requires more than good intentions.