Environmental news from mainstream news sources Reuters, CNN, New York Times, Washington Post, Associated Press USA Today and BBC America.
- America's electric cars need lithium so badly it may wipe out this species Fewer than 40 years after humans discovered Tiehm's buckwheat, a Nevada plant with yellow flowers, they may drive it to extinction in pursuit of electric vehicles, a technology widely hailed as being environmentally friendly.
- Hacked Pipeline May Stay Shut for Days, Raising Concerns About Fuel Supply While the impact has been limited so far, some energy analysts warned of possible shortages and higher prices as the suspension continues.
- The growing problem of space junk More than 3 million years ago, members of an unknown hominin species sat on a river bank at the site of Lomekwi, in what is now Kenya, and made a set of stone tools for their daily tasks. Only a trained eye can distinguish the detritus they left behind from naturally broken rocks. In the intervening millennia, human trash has grown in complexity and quantity, introducing novel materials like plastics and metal alloys. What humans discard is fodder for archaeologists, but it's also an environmental problem that is becoming interplanetary.
- ‘You’ve Lost Your Sparkle’: What to Do When Burnout Hits Dr. Yumiko Kadota, a surgeon in Sydney, and the author of “Emotional Female,” on stress, burnout and toxic work environments.
- This crypto claims to solve bitcoin's biggest problemBitcoin may be the king of cryptocurrencies, but it's facing an environmental backlash over the energy-intensive technology underpinning it.
- ‘Climate Change Is Not a Subjective Thing.’ How Does the U.S. Approach to the Environment Look From Abroad?From recycling to carbon emissions, we asked 10 people from around the world what they thought of America’s approach to the environment. It didn’t go well.
- Adam Kolton, 53, Dies; Led Fight to Protect Alaskan RefugeThrough his work with environmental groups, he tried to prevent the introduction of oil and gas drilling in sensitive lands.
- This is what Burger King's experimental new packaging looks likeBurger King is giving its most-used items, like utensils, straws and wrappers, an environmentally friendly makeover as part of the company's continued push to reduce waste.
- Revel saw a loophole as an opportunity for a new ridehail service. NYC is lividBack in 2018, New York City regulators, tired of vehicles from Uber and Lyft making some streets so clogged that cars had to drive slower than streetcars and buggies once had, cracked down and said they would temporarily block new for-hire licenses. But in a fit of environmental-minded well-meaning, they left a loophole for electric cars. Now an upstart company is trying to use that loophole to bring new cars into Manhattan.
- Mozambique Mints a New National Park — and Surveys Its RichesIn the wake of wars, natural disasters and insurgencies, Mozambique is experiencing an environmental renaissance. One of the results is a new and stunningly beautiful national park.
- Biden's climate push promises 'jobs, jobs, jobs.' Here's what that might look likeIn his first address to a joint session of Congress last week, President Joe Biden framed his climate change agenda as a once-in-a-generation economic opportunity, speaking directly to blue-collar workers. He promised that his focus on the environment would result in "jobs, jobs, jobs."
- Old iPhones, PCs and printers: How to recycle or dump e-wasteThose devices we all depend on contain toxic substances like cadmium, lead, mercury, beryllium. Here's how to retire them safely for the environment.
- Buffett's Berkshire pressured to be more environmentally and socially responsibleWarren Buffett defended the decision by Berkshire Hathaway to not put out reports from its many subsidiaries about how the company is addressing the risks of climate change.
- When the Goals Come Out of NowhereA Greek striker is one of the top scorers in Europe, and his play has caught the eye of big clubs. But are his goals a product of his talent, or his environment?
- Tesla’s Latest Solar Stumble: Big Price IncreasesThe company is charging tens of thousands of dollars more to cover roofs with its much-anticipated solar shingles, angering some customers.
- ‘Percy vs Goliath’ Review: Growing PainsChristopher Walken plays a beleaguered farmer in this understated environmental drama.
- Epicurious: US food website ditches beef in new recipes over environmentEditors of the US site describe the move as "not anti-beef, but rather pro-planet".
- Can the U.S. Win Back Its Climate Credibility?At a summit he convened, the president discovered how difficult it will be to re-establish America as an environmental leader.
- Justice Department weighs in on Ashley Diamond lawsuit: Prison officials obligated to protect transgender prisoners from harmFailure to provide transgender prisoners with a safe environment is cruel and unusual punishment, the U.S. Justice Department said Thursday.
- Biden and World Leaders Focus on Innovation for ‘Clean Energy Future’On the second day of the White House virtual summit to tackle the environmental crisis, business leaders including Bill Gates and Michael Bloomberg take center stage.
- Bolsonaro Seeks International Funding for Amazon ProtectionThe Biden era has prompted Brazil to take steps to repair its record as an environmental scoundrel — for which it’s seeking billions of dollars from the international community.
- US Dragon crewship launches to space stationFour astronauts leave Florida in a Dragon capsule bound for the International Space Station.
- From the Gila River to Bears Ears: Environmental activists renew push to protect Southwest US public lands amid shifting politicsIn a shifting political landscape, activists and archaeologists in the southwestern U.S. have renewed efforts to protect more public land.
- Earth Day 2021: Liver cancer didn't kill me — environmental pollution didMy home growing up was a haven for crooks and toxic industries. Companies profited at the expense of citizens' health, including my own.
- Earth Day 2021: Celebrities who support environmental causes – and how you can helpHere's how stars including Jane Fonda, Bill Nye, Hayley Hasselhoff and Prince William are making a difference this Earth Day – and how you can help.
- Biden: This will be 'decisive decade' for tackling climate changeThe White House says the US will curb emissions by 50-52%, as leaders gather for virtual summit.
- When Climate Breakdown Hits Home: ‘Our Small Town Now Has a Rush Hour’Readers share how environmental issues are changing their lives.
- Climate change, racism and social justice concerns affecting Gen Z's physical and mental healthMore are understanding how the environment impacts mental health and how climate change disproportionally impacts marginalized communities.
- Can Bolsonaro be taken at his word on protecting the environment? A look at his recordWorld leaders meet virtually on Thursday to discuss climate issues in a summit convened by US President Joe Biden. Most highly anticipated perhaps is what the leaders of some of the world's most environmentally consequential countries -- including Brazil, China, India -- have to say. But critics ranging from Brazilian environmentalists to American celebrities are warning the world not to listen to one: Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro.
- Eco-friendly habits to keep after the pandemicThe pandemic forced people to quickly form new habits, and some of them left a positive impact on the environment. Here's which ones should stay after the pandemic is over.
- The projects working to Restore Our EarthThe theme for this year's Earth Day is Restore Our Earth. Here, we shine a spotlight on some environmental heroes who are working to save and restore Earth's bountiful biodiversity.
- LaDonna Allard Dies at 64; Led Dakota Pipeline ProtestsShe started a resistance camp that turned into a movement that opposed fossil fuels while it embraced tribal sovereignty and environmental justice.
- The messy environmental crisis that helped spark the Earth Day movementDiscover how Earth Day evolved from an awareness campaign aimed at college students to a worldwide movement.
- See how the climate crisis has impacted EarthIn the past five decades, we haven't made as much progress on protecting the environment as you might think. See how our planet has changed in the climate crisis.
- Nasa successfully flies small helicopter on MarsThe Ingenuity drone completes the first powered, controlled flight by an aircraft on another world.
- We Were Born to Be WildEarth Day is a reminder that we are living creatures all the same.
- Nature and Nurture: 8 Picture Books for Earth DayAndrea Wang, Jason Chin, Travis Jonker, Grant Snider, Juana Martinez-Neal, Corinna Luyken and others depict our symbiotic relationship with the environment.
- The realities of climate change are pushing big businesses to focus on sustainabilityA consensus appears to be taking root in Corporate America: What's good for the environment can also be good for business.
- 'Whitest ever' paint reflects 98% of sunlightResearchers hope their "ultra-white" paint can save energy by reflecting sunlight from buildings.
- Apple started a $200 million fund to combat climate changeApple aims to be carbon neutral by 2030. Lisa Jackson, Apple's VP of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives speaks to CNN's Christine Romans about the tech giant's environmental and social responsibilities.
- Raw Sewage Flooded Their Homes. They’re Still Waiting for Help.New York City accepted responsibility for a collapsed pipe that flooded 127 homes in Queens in 2019, but it has been slow to pay homeowners. “This is a problem of environmental racism,” an expert said.
- In Coinbase’s Rise, a Reminder: Cryptocurrencies Use Lots of EnergyThe company’s stock market arrival establishes Bitcoin and other digital currencies in the traditional financial landscape. It also elevates a technology with astonishing environmental costs.
- Why Closing the Indian Point Nuclear Plant Could Hurt NY's EnvironmentThe nuclear power plant at Indian Point will close at the end of the month, but the shutdown could cause a spike in greenhouse gases.
- ‘Bond Girl’ Talk and Groping: Albany’s Toxic Culture for WomenAs allegations against Gov. Andrew Cuomo put a new spotlight on sexual misconduct in New York’s capital, numerous women there described an enduring predatory and misogynistic environment.
- They Overcame Mutual Loathing, and Saved a TownEnvironmentalists and loggers thought they had nothing in common, until they started talking.
- World's largest freshwater lake is under threatRussia's Lake Baikal is the oldest and deepest lake in the world, holding about 20% of the world's fresh water and currently facing increasing environmental threats from climate change and mass tourism. As Russia continues to encourage visitors to the lake, even in the midst of the pandemic, some locals question whether the pristine environment is being sacrificed in favor of revenue. CNN's Fred Pleitgen reports from a town in Russia, where some say their home simply can't take on any more people.
- Biden's first budget includes billions more for high-poverty schools, environmental programs and the CDCBiden is requesting a significant 16% increase for domestic spending and a modest 1.7% boost for the Defense Department.
- Bitcoin's popularity could be terrible for the environmentBitcoin's soaring popularity could have a long-lasting negative effect on the environment.
- 'I wouldn't be here if he hadn't been there': Dolly Parton's uncle Bill Owens dies at 85Bill Owens, a songwriter, Dollywood employee, environmentalist and the man credited for helping Dolly Parton get her start has died.
- Our video streaming habits impact the planet. Here's howWatching Netflix, Amazon Prime and YouTube have exploded during the pandemic. But streaming video has a growing and significant environmental impact that goes far beyond your tv or phone.
- PG&E Charged With Crimes in 2019 California WildfireA district attorney filed five felony and 28 misdemeanor counts in connection with the Kincade Fire, which ravaged Sonoma County.
- Florida reservoir breach is 'under control now': Catastrophic flooding fears ease, but environmental concerns remainMore than 300 homes and multiple businesses in the area around Piney Point were evacuated. The order was lifted Tuesday afternoon.
- Piney Point wastewater may fuel harmful algae bloom along Florida coast, experts sayEnvironmental groups worry recent releases from the Piney Point wastewater treatment facility near Tampa Bay will eventually fuel an algae bloom.
- Employee was hired remotely during pandemic and feels disconnected: Ask HRIf you were hired remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, it takes more effort to feel supported and in sync with your team in a virtual environment.
- Coronavirus and travel: Everything you need to knowBathed in the faint light at the end of the once seemingly endless pandemic tunnel are visions of trips that reunite us with loved ones or take us to some blissfully new environment.
- Florida crews are pumping wastewater into Tampa Bay to avoid a full reservoir breach: What we knowFlorida environmental officials last week approved the pumping of wastewater from a reservoir into Tampa Bay in hopes of avoiding a major collapse.
- Friday's deadly attack at the US Capitol expected to reignite the debate over security fencing erected after riot"It sucks. Nobody wants that there. But the question is, is the environment safe enough to be able to take it down?" asked Rep. Tim Ryan
- Test Flight for Sunlight-Blocking Research Is CanceledThe Swedish Space Corporation said it had canceled the flight — part of research to better understand the controversial idea of blocking the sun to fight climate change — after an outcry from environmentalists and others.
- Italy Bans Cruise Liners From Venice Lagoon, With a CatchThough environmental groups praised the decision to detour big ships outside the fragile area, they are concerned about plans to temporarily dock them at Marghera, the lagoon’s industrial hub.
- Biden’s Big Bet: Tackling Climate Change Will Create Jobs, Not Kill ThemFor decades, Democrats have countered opposition to "job-killing" environmental regulation by saying combatting climate change would create well-paying new jobs. President Biden is betting on it.
- CDC releases new Covid guidanceThe Biden administration will remove dozens of Trump-appointed advisers from two Environmental Protection Agency panels.
- EPA removes dozens of Trump-appointed advisers from two advisory panelsThe Biden administration will remove dozens of Trump-appointed advisers from two Environmental Protection Agency panels.
- Listening to Music in the Desert at DawnTerry Tempest Williams, an author and environmental activist, on bird song, Keith Jarrett and slowing down.
- Should you consider a short-term bond allocation? Here's how to invest in bonds when interest rates are risingThere are sectors that tend to outperform in rising rate environments, here's how retirees who were hoping to live off interest income can adjust.
- These transgender people shifted genders during COVID and are bracing for a return to the officeWill workplaces be ready to provide a tolerant, safe environment for employees who now identify as a different gender than before the pandemic?
- Biden’s Chance to Save the EvergladesReviving the South Florida ecosystem enjoys bipartisan support and deserves federal funding.
- Pop-Tarts, Rice Krispies Treats, Cheez-Its contain preservative that may harm immune system, study saysThe environmental advocacy group is calling for the FDA to reconsider the permitted use of the preservative in processed foods.
- Bill Nelson: Former astronaut and senator nominated as Nasa chiefBill Nelson, 78, is a former astronaut and senator with a long history of working on space issues.
- Visited a National Park This Year? Now, Help Save It.More people than ever visited national parks during the pandemic. We need to harness that interest for change.
- A dangerous contest in IowaAmazingly, the 2020 election is not yet over. There is still a disputed congressional election from Iowa that is making its way through Congress. Although every valid vote should count, the continuing contest shows once again the dangers of a political environment in which losing candidates refuse to accept defeat.
- These 12 fruits and vegetables contain more pesticide residue than others, 'Dirty Dozen' study saysThe 2021 "Dirty Dozen" list released by the Environmental Working Group also added collard and mustard greens as well as bell peppers and hot peppers.
- Strawberries comes in at no. 1 on EWG's 'Dirty Dozen' listStrawberries made it to the top of the Environmental Working Group's "Dirty Dozen" list for 2021, but there are some new veggies that made the list.
- Dirty Dozen 2021: View the list of foods with the most and least pesticidesStrawberries continue to lead the "Dirty Dozen" list of fruits and veggies that contain the highest levels of pesticides, followed by spinach, a trio of greens -- kale, collard and mustard -- nectarines, apples, and grapes, according to the Environmental Working Group's 2021 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce.
- Yes, America, There Is (Some) Hope for the EnvironmentWildlife bridges, plastic-eating bacteria and drones that plant trees remind us that we are as good at repairing as we are at destroying.
- Texas beekeeper viral videos saving bee nestsBeekeeper Erika Thompson says the video, viewed over a million times, was "just a normal Tuesday".
- Why $4-a-Gallon Gas May Be Coming Your Way This SummerThe oil industry, known for boom-bust cycles, is resisting the temptation to pump more oil — for now.
- Michael Regan confirmed by Senate as first Black man to lead the Environmental Protection AgencyRegan, Attorney General Merrick Garland and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Marcia Fudge all receiving bipartisan support on Wednesday.
- Senate confirms Michael Regan as head of EPAThe Senate voted to confirm Michael Regan as President Joe Biden's pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday, where he'll join an administration that has pledged aggressive action on tackling the climate crisis.
- Duchess Meghan and Cuomo accuser reveal something crucial about suicideSuicide can be driven by mental illness, but Meghan's revelation and Lindsey Boylan's disclosure show abusive environments also play a role.
- For Planet Earth, No Tourism is a Curse and a BlessingFrom the rise in poaching to the waning of noise pollution, travel’s shutdown is having profound effects. Which will remain, and which will vanish?
- Kids still aren't learning LGBTQ history. The Equality Act might change that.LGBTQ students without curricular support are more likely to experience bullying. But positive school environments make the difference in kids' lives.
- This retailer that doesn't have a website may be moving into an empty store near youFor many teens, the pandemic has created an environment in which most of their lives take place in the shadows.
- Big Step Forward for $50 Billion Plan to Save Louisiana CoastAn environmental assessment said the project’s next step would largely benefit coastal areas, though it might also affect some marine life, especially dolphins.
- Biden could be the most transformative president in 75 yearsAmericans believe by hefty majorities that we can solve our national problems and that the federal government should play a major role in areas including infrastructure, health care, environment, poverty reduction and economy. This broad support provides a foundation for Joe Biden to become the most transformative president since Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- Justice Amy Coney Barrett Issues Her First Majority OpinionThe 7-to-2 ruling rejected an environmental group’s Freedom of Information Act request.
- Many teens live online, alone. Here's how to stay connectedFor many teens, the pandemic has created an environment in which most of their lives take place in the shadows.
- Then and now: A 'megadrought' in CaliforniaSee how extreme weather has affected an vital reservoir in California.
- Exxon Mobil’s Chief Says It Is ‘Supportive’ of Zero-Emission GoalsDarren Woods, in an interview before an annual presentation to investors, also suggested there was common ground with Biden administration policies.
- Extinct 400 years ago, these animals are back in EnglandBeavers have been extinct in England for 400 years. Now they're back and proving a useful ally against the effects of the climate and biodiversity crises.
- How Green Are Electric Vehicles?In short: Very green. But plug-in cars still have environmental effects. Here’s a guide to the main issues and how they might be addressed.
- Reversing Trump, Interior Department Moves Swiftly on Climate ChangeAs Deb Haaland, President Biden's choice for Interior secretary, heads toward a showdown vote, the department she would head is moving ahead on environmental policies.
- The Golden Globes proves that award-show challenges aren't getting any easierIf the entertainment industry truly wants the Golden Globes to clean up its act, then Sunday's awkward, glitch-heavy ceremony blew a golden opportunity, while highlighting the problems that all award shows face in this pandemic-impacted environment.
- The City Where Cars Are Not WelcomeAs automakers promise to get rid of internal combustion engines, Heidelberg is trying to get rid of autos.
- Smoky Artwork by Judy Chicago at Desert Zoo Is Canceled“Living Smoke” was scheduled for April but the California venue withdrew after an activist said the colorful smoke display could harm the environment.
- For Travel, a Sustainable Comeback?From a newly certified Whale Heritage Site to scenic byways for electric cars, five new initiatives suggest the travel industry may be envisioning a more responsible future.
- Environmental advocate believes children are the answer to climate changeAs young children, most of us don't know what we want to be when we grow up.
- New York Times Calls for Workplace Changes in Diversity Report“The Times is a difficult environment for many of our colleagues,” the report found. People of color described “unsettling and sometimes painful day-to-day workplace experiences.”
- Japan increases protection for US military amid 'severe security environment'Japan's military performed 25 missions in 2020 in defense of US ships or planes, a sign of the growing integration of two of Asia's most powerful armed forces.
- Israel’s Beaches Are Littered With Tar After Mysterious Oil SpillThe environmental damage is being called one of Israel’s worst ecological disasters in decades. “I feel like I want to cry,” said an official. “It’s everywhere.”
- Yale professor offers tips for students during remote learningCNN's Anderson Cooper talks to Yale psychology professor Laurie Santos, about how students can "slay their new learning environment" during the Covid-19 pandemic. Watch "Full Circle" Monday, Thursday and Friday this week at 6p E.T.
- Video shows Perseverance rover's dramatic Mars landingThe Perseverance robot is seen touching down on the Red Planet in a whirl of dust and grit.
- Companies Say They Care About the Climate. Their Actions Fall Short.Many big businesses have not set targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Others have weak goals.
- Keeping the Australian Open Safe from CoronavirusAn army of workers toiled to create a safe environment at the Australian Open.
- Imbolo Mbue Has Been Working Toward This MomentHer novel, “How Beautiful We Were,” is a story about how people respond to environmental destruction. It was delayed by the pandemic and before that by the success of her previous book, “Behold the Dreamers.”
- Mars landing: Photo shows Perseverance about to touch downNasa releases an astonishing image of its new Mars robot taken just moments before touchdown.
- Here's why Corporate America is jumping for joy while millions are joblessAmerica's CEOs are the most confident they have been in 17 years, as company leaders expect fewer layoffs and further improvements in the business environment, according to a recent survey from the Conference Board, a non-profit think tank.
- Magnetic poles reversal may have triggered Neanderthal extinction. It could happen againThe reversal of Earth's magnetic poles, along with a temporary breakdown of the world's magnetic field about 42,000 years ago, could have triggered a raft of environmental changes, solar storms and the extinction of the Neanderthals, according to a new study.
- US rejoins Paris accord: Biden's first act sets tone for ambitious approachRe-joining the Paris climate pact is a symbolic and practical first step for the Biden White House.
- Mars landing: Excitement builds over new images from Nasa Perseverance roverThe rover touched down successfully on Thursday in Mars' Jezero Crater.
- Mars landing: Nasa's Perseverance rover in 'great shape'Perseverance will now spend at least two years looking for evidence of past life on the Red Planet.
- 'Touchdown' - The moment rover landed on Red PlanetThere are celebrations as Perseverance completes its seven-month journey to the Red Planet.
- Do these 5 things if you want to improve your credit scoreThe current low interest rate environment is great news for borrowers, especially those who have good credit.
- Texas Storms, California Heat Waves and ‘Vulnerable’ UtilitiesPower failures have cast a spotlight on whether energy companies and regulators are doing enough to prepare for climate change and natural disasters.
- Stuck in traffic? Americans with longer commutes could be inhaling dangerously high levels of carcinogens, study saysA California study published in the journal Environment International found drivers with longer commutes could be inhaling high levels of carcinogens.
- Do I tell HR about a rude boss? Ask HRWith nearly 1 in 5 people leaving a job due to poor workplace culture over the past five years, creating a supportive work environment is critical.
- The Auto Industry Bets Its Future on BatteriesCarmakers, government agencies and investors are pouring money into battery research in a global race to profit from emission-free electric cars.
- Along the Southwest Border, Trump’s Wall Is Only One of the Insults He Left BehindHere’s what Biden should do about the poverty, discrimination and environmental destruction.
- Bill Gates: Solving Covid easy compared with climateSolving global warming would be “the most amazing thing humanity has done”, says the billionaire.
- Book Review: ‘Under a White Sky,’ by Elizabeth KolbertIn “Under a White Sky,” the Pulitzer Prize winner Elizabeth Kolbert meets people who are trying to reverse the course of man-made environmental disaster.