All Environment
First Look3M to pay $10.3B for leaking 'forever chemicals' into water systemsChemical manufacturer 3M has agreed to pay $10.3 billion to settle lawsuits over the contamination of many public drinking water systems with harmful compounds. Known as 鈥渇orever chemicals,鈥� PFAS don鈥檛 degrade and have been linked to health problems.
First LookMonstrous mustard? California chefs, artists target invasive species.California is blooming with wild mustard this year. The invasive species smothers native plants and serves as tinder for wildfires in a state already ravaged by blazes. In response, artists are using the plant as dye and chefs are cooking with it.聽
First LookWho should fund clean energy? IEA calls on rich nations.The International Energy Agency聽said that affluent nations must regain trust by financing clean energy in developing countries. In poorer nations, the implementation of net-zero goals faces significant financial hurdles.
Why this Indian village has fought a steel plant for 18 yearsA village鈥檚 enduring resistance against a massive steelworks project highlights gaps in India鈥檚 environmental protections and human rights.
First LookCould this generation end climate change? Youth take fights to court.A United Nations resolution declared the right to a healthy environment a human right in July 2022. Now, youth in India and Indonesia are suing their governments, reflecting a global trend of climate litigation based on human rights violations.
First LookAmid soaring energy demand, Vietnam eyes transition to renewablesVietnam has released a long-awaited energy plan that aims to transition the country to renewables while meeting soaring demand. However, continued reliance on fossil fuels, experts warn, could make it hard for the country to meet its ambitious goals.
Lithium mining boom in Argentina sparks hope 鈥� and sacrificeLithium is in high demand as the world moves toward green energy to meet climate targets. But the benefits of lithium are still up for debate in local mining communities.
Do children have a right to a healthy climate? Montana case is a test.A lawsuit in Montana marks the first time that young people in the U.S. have gotten a chance in court to demand the right to a stable climate 鈥� part of a larger global effort by children to demand government action.
Points of ProgressGreek beaches and Moroccan holidays: Two signals of acceptanceProgress roundup: In Greece, wheelchair users have an easier way to enjoy the ocean. And in Morocco, a holiday recognizes the Berbers, 40% of the population.
The ExplainerWhere there鈥檚 fire, there鈥檚 smoke: Public safety lesson for Eastern USThe severity of Canadian wildfire smoke has startled the United States and may prompt Eastern communities to draw safety lessons from the fire-prone West.
First LookSouthern farmers search for new strategies against warmer wintersWith climate change driving warmer winters, farmers across the southern United States find new and creative ways to ensure their fields yield enough crops. This includes employing new agricultural techniques and growing crops once rare in the region.
First LookCanadian wildfires are clouding US skies. Here's what to know.Lingering smoke from Canadian wildfires is causing hazy conditions over the northeastern United States. Officials are cautioning against outdoor activity until the air clears.
In stronghold of Guinea-Bissau, endangered vultures soar againIn rare good conservation news from the African continent, Guinea-Bissau鈥檚 hooded vulture population is slowly recovering.
Points of ProgressBoosting jobs: From coding camps to streamlining for startupsProgress roundup: From Argentina to Benin, governments and industry boost employment with free education and by smoothing the path to entrepreneurship. And, we highlight a discovery for the future of electricity
First LookAtlantic hurricane season 2023 is underway. Here's what to expect.The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season began June 1.聽Forecasters and experts are predicting 12 to 17 named storms could form, with five to nine developing into hurricanes. Here鈥檚 what residents along the U.S. southeastern coastline should know.聽
First LookDo carbon credits work? With recent bill, Brazil says yes.Brazil鈥檚 congress passed a bill this week that would make carbon credits available to companies that receive forest concessions. Although the new policy is expected to boost tax revenue, there is doubt that it will actually benefit local communities.- Why UN talks this week focus on just one word: PlasticsFew plastics are recycled, and instead particles are increasingly ubiquitous in the environment. Our charts give context as nations seek a treaty.
Points of ProgressChanging views on crime, from Central Asia to the South PacificProgress roundup: From Uzbekistan to Cook Islands, evolving views on behavior and relationships yield legal protection for battered partners and gay men.
First LookNext green leader? India halts new coal plant construction.India released its five-year energy plan May 31, 2023, which bars the country from building聽any new coal power plants and promotes renewable energy development.聽India is the world鈥檚 third largest emitter but aims to be carbon neutral by 2070.聽
First LookGlobal heatwaves are getting hotter. How can risks be curbed?Climate change-fueled heatwaves are shattering records worldwide, and scientists expect them to worsen.聽Urgent action is needed, they say, to mitigate risks to health, food security, water management, and the environment.