On the Commons criticizes the policy of 'enclosure' that has allowed "the systemic failures of the regulatory system and its political sponsors, Congress and the President," to go unnoticed.
David Bollier argues that the "corporate institution is systematically taking resources that belong to all of us; privatizing the market gains and socializing the risks," while the public taxpayers pay the cost. He criticizes President Obama for failing to act decisively enough and delegating "supervision of the BP spill to industry-friendly regulators like Chu and Interior Secretary Salazar."
Bollier is concerned that "reforms will be half-hearted and symbolic, not structural and effective." He labels Rahm Emmanuel's famous comment that "a crisis is a terrible thing to waste," as a diversion and distraction.
Read the full story: The Enclosure of the Gulf
Creating Ocean-Safe Plastic from Seashells
USC researchers have created a biodegradable, marine-safe plastic alternative using calcium carbonate from seashells, offering a promising solution to ocean pollution.
Commentary: Colorado Will Forge Ahead With Conservation Work
While federal policy may become less friendly to environmental efforts, support from state legislators and agencies can prevent the state from backsliding.
Nevada to Host National Outdoor Recreation Conference
In May 2024, the Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals will hold its national conference in Stateline, Nevada, offering opportunities to learn and network in the beautiful setting of Lake Tahoe.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Amtrak, CN end decades-long dispute with eight-year agreement
The new operating agreement establishes an updated framework for the companies to work together, including processes to resolve disputes.
Judges permit Denver to divert 77,000 acre feet from the Colorado River for reservoir expansion
Overuse and climate change have caused the Colorado River’s water levels to plummet.
NYC DOT wants faster, more permanent street upgrades
The city is examining ways to build more concrete infrastructure without getting entangled in 'decades-long' projects.
'Something we’ve never seen before:' rising utility rates could strain city finances nationwide
Data centers, climate change and other factors have caused utility rates in the United States to increase by 38% since 2020.
Trump to overrule local leaders, lease millions of acres of America’s Pacific Island territories’ seafloors to mining companies
International law says that the Indigenous people of America’s territories have a right to prior and informed consent regarding projects that impact their countries.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.
Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
KFH Group Inc.
Greater Baltimore Committee
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello