The Environment Continues To Improve

The Pacific Research Institute publishes their Index Of Leading Environmental Indicators 2002, with surprising results.

1 minute read

May 26, 2002, 9:00 AM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


This report, published by the Pacific Research Institute finds that despite popular perception, environmental quality is improving dramatically in the United States. While the report is guaranteed to stir up controversy, the writers concur with one widely held view: the most meaningful environmental initiatives are taking place on the local level. The report utilizes government data to assess long-term air and water quality trends, toxic chemicalprevalence and the loss of open space and species. Note: This PDF file is a 52-page document and is 1.6 MB.

Thanks to California Policy Forum

Sunday, May 26, 2002 in Pacific Research Institute

Young Professional

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

"Planetizen federal action tracker" logo superimposed over black and white image of US Capitol dome.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

October 20, 2026 - Zachary Whalen

A pencil rendering of Foundry Park, which shows skyscrapers and public green spaces.

Chicago breaks ground on $3 billion megadevelopment

The new neighborhood, titled Foundry Park, will one day host 3,700 residences.

October 23, 2026 - Chicago Sun Times

A yellow, two-story building named Ferns with two American flags.

This MA town is drowning in its own sewage — and residents like it that way

Susan Murcott, a waste water expert, said if Carlisle didn't address their leaking sewage, the problem could turn “deadly.”

October 22, 2026 - Boston Globe

A square Tesla home battery on the side of a home.

Home batteries are ushering in an energy revolution

Batteries capable of storing solar energy can stabilize the grid during peaks and keep homes running on cloudy days.

5 hours ago - Grist

A large green space outside a tall, silver terminal.

A sneak peek at NYC’s Midtown Bus Terminal rebuild

The city will turn a deck used for storage during the construction process into a park once construction is complete.

6 hours ago - Gothamist

One of Archer Aviations air taxis. it has four small propellers and a sleek black build.

Air taxis to connect Texas airports to business hubs

Archer Aviation says its taxis will turn 90 minute drives into 20 minute flights.

7 hours ago - Fort Worth Report