Environment

Solar Farm Moratorium to End, Despite Local Concerns
Delaware County plans to amend its solar zoning ordinance and lift a moratorium on the construction of new solar farms that was implemented after local opposition stalled the project.

The Sixth Extinction Has Likely Already Begun
Scientists believe we have entered a sixth mass extinction event, calling for conservation and documentation of species before they are lost forever.

What Is Walkability?
Walkability refers to the ability to safely walk to services and amenities within a reasonable distance, usually defined as a walk of 30 minutes or less.

Opinion: California Should Invest In Housing, Not Dubious Desalination Projects
A controversial desalination plant in Orange County could receive massive state subsidies, but advocates argue the money would be better spent on affordable housing projects to relieve the state's housing crisis.

New GOP Governor's Anti-Climate Agenda Takes Shape in Virginia
New Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin made promises on the campaign trail to reverse the state's commitment to climate reductions.

Nebraska, Colorado Square Off in Fight Over South Platte River Water
Billions of dollars of water development are at stake as Colorado and Nebraska battle for control of more South Platter River water.

L.A. Wildlife Crossing To Break Ground This Spring
The planned wildlife bridge spanning an eight-lane freeway will be the world's largest and most ambitious project of its kind.

Electric Vehicle Sales Strong in 2021; SUVs Sales Still Dominate the Market
In December, data showed SUVs on course to account for more than 45% of global car sales in 2021.

More Colorado Suburbs at Risk for Wildfires
Experts warn that more intense fires fueled by a warming climate are threatening an increasing number of Colorado's suburban communities.

Flood Victims Call for Insurance Overhaul, More Federal Protections
A coalition of residents from flood-prone areas is urging the federal government to improve FEMA's beleaguered flood insurance program and do more to prevent construction on floodplains.

Sustainability Advocates Reject USPS Electrification Plan
Critics say the Postal Service's argument for its weak commitment to electrifying its vehicle fleet doesn't hold water.

The Built Environment in 2022: Challenges and Opportunities
As climate change, the pandemic, and a historic housing crisis continue to impact the nation, experts weigh in on the issues that could shape the future of the built environment in 2022.

Saving San Jose's Vanishing Tree Canopy
Trees are vanishing from the San Jose, California cityscape. The city has a plan to reverse the damage, but significant challenges stand in the way of progress.

Northern California Port Seeks Offshore Wind Lease
The Port of Humboldt has proposed a plan to modernize its facilities to accommodate offshore wind energy production, hoping to stimulate the local economy and create sustainable jobs.

Land Trusts Had a Big Decade
Land trusts are diversifying, racking up victories, and conserving millions of acres of land in recent years, according to a recent report.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Growing Faster than the Economy in the U.S.
2021 greenhouse gas emissions from U.S. transportation increased 10 percent compared to the previous year, pushing the entire world further from the emissions reductions necessary to prevent the worst effects of climate change.

Racial Disparities in Life Expectancy Are a Place-Based Problem
New research from the Brookings Institution illuminates the racial disparities of public health outcomes both during and before the pandemic.

U.S. Communities Increasingly at Risk of Extreme Weather Events
As development pushes into more wildfire-prone areas and climate change makes extreme weather conditions more common, more Americans are experiencing the destructive impacts of climate disasters.

Saving Birds By Design
Reflective glass high-rises kill millions of birds each year, but bird-friendly design can save birds and reduce energy consumption.

Mixed-Income 'Eco-Village' Planned in Michigan
A net-zero emissions development near Ann Arbor hopes to provide a model for sustainable communities.
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