Climate Change/Air Quality / Public News Service

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., has introduced legislation to codify the Chevron Deference into law. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, July 26, 2024

SCOTUS ruling impacts future action of VA, US

Recent Supreme Court rulings on air pollution are affecting Virginia and the nation. Climate advocates said the court overstepped its bounds in …

Wildfires in the western United States have burned more than 1.3 million acres of vegetation so far in 2024. Officials warn flooding is a serious danger in the burn scars left by the blazes after the flames are out. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, July 25, 2024

Dangerous floods loom following Montana wildfires

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation has issued flood alerts following wildfires burning huge swaths of the state. Floods …

New EPA rules on tailpipe pollution are expected to lead to $62 billion in reduced annual fuel costs, and maintenance and repair costs for drivers. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, July 25, 2024

EPA clean-car standards projected to bring $100B annual benefits

Clean-air advocates in Colorado are celebrating new EPA standards, which they believe can play a major role in reducing air pollution impacting …

A proposal by a far-right think tank would increase funding for a U.S.-Mexico border wall, should Republicans retake the White House in November. (Jeff/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, July 25, 2024

NM voters get lowdown on far right's 'Project 2025'

A sweeping conservative plan to shape a possible second Donald Trump presidency is making headlines, even as the GOP candidate claims to know little …

Inflation Reduction Act investments of $500 million will go toward converting a General Motors plant in Lansing to produce electric vehicles. Nearly $158 million will go to a facility in Marysville. (JHVEPhoto/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

EV industry praises federal investments in Michigan

Michigan's electric vehicle industry is praising the Biden administration for its latest investments in EV manufacturing and innovation. About $650 …

Sioux Falls experienced its wettest two-day period in the National Weather Service's record keeping, according to NASA, which began in 1893. (Brian Jackson/Adobe Stock)

Water contamination a concern in Midwest flood aftermath

As South Dakotans affected by recent record floods take stock of damages, researchers say water quality is among the concerns. The state has been …

According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the smallest bird that resides in the state, at 3 to 3 1/4 inches in length, is the ruby-throated hummingbird. The largest wild bird is the trumpeter swan, with a 7-foot wingspan. (Adobe Stock)

Study finds IL birds feel the effects of climate change

A new study by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign suggests the long-term effects of climate change could create a higher risk of extinction f…

Researchers with the think tank Energy Innovation say despite critics' claims, growing renewable energy deployment has actually been shown to produce electricity cost savings. (Adobe Stock)

Is your electric bill higher? Independent analysis says don't blame clean energy

Advancing clean energy sources can be a tricky topic in oil-producing states like North Dakota. But a nonpartisan analysis says the facts are clear …

Researchers said extreme events in nearly every region of Wisconsin are causing immense disruptions affecting human health, the economy and natural resources. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Science Moms work to foster meaningful talks on climate change

So far, states like Wisconsin have largely escaped the worst of the summer heat affecting much of the nation but a group of scientists wants regional …

Industry groups said Minnesota's current solar investments have created enough capacity to power nearly 400,000 homes. (Adobe Stock)

MN poised to complete one of nation's largest solar farms after permit vote

Construction could begin in Minnesota later this year in the final phase of one of the nation's largest solar energy developments, after state …

Ohio has more than 13 million acres of farmland and agriculture is responsible for about 3% of the state's gross domestic product. (Donley Desdain/Adobe Stock)

USDA invests millions for 'climate-smart' ag programs in Midwest

Farms in the Midwest should become more resilient to challenges created by climate change, with a $10 million grant from the U.S. Department of …

Minnesota farmer Stuart Lavalier proudly displays his solar installation on his property along the Iron Range. (Photo courtesy of Resource Rural)

MN berry grower adds solar power to his revenue stream

By Bryce Oates for Resource Rural.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the Resource Rural-Public News Service Co…

Two South Dakota ethanol production facilities are considered high-priority emission violators, according to EPA data, including plants in Redfield and Aberdeen. (Adobe Stock)

Report: SD ethanol plants release hazardous air pollutants

Biofuels are painted as a greener energy alternative to fossil fuels but a new study found the industry produces plenty of its own air pollutants…

The town office and post office in Machias, Maine, could face biannual flooding by 2050, according to a new report from the Union of Concerned Scientists. (Charlie/Adobe Stock)

Report: Maine’s coastal infrastructure at risk as sea levels rise

A new report is warning of threats to Maine's coastal infrastructure. From power plants and post offices to affordable housing units, the report …

Scientists say in order to avert the worst effects of climate change, global temperature increase must be limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius and emissions cut by 45% by 2030 to reach net zero by 2050. (Adobe Stock)

Scientists reconsider net-zero pledges to reach climate goals

By Stephen Battersby for the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.Broadcast version by Kathryn Carley for Commonwealth News Service…

Workers can file safety or heat-related complaints at the Cal/OSHA office nearest their work site or by calling 866-924-9757. (Sculpies/Adobe Stock)

As temps climb, CA workers encouraged to know their rights

California has shattered heat records left and right this month and temperatures are forecast to be 10 degrees above normal this weekend, so the …

Colorado gets $156M from Inflation Reduction Act for 'Solar for All'

Colorado is calling on solar energy entrepreneurs to put $156 million in Inflation Reduction Act funding to work accelerating rooftop and community-ba…

Line 5, an Enbridge pipeline that was built in 1953, runs for 645 miles from Wisconsin, under the Straits of Mackinac, through Michigan to Sarnia, Ontario. (Jorge Moro/Adobe Stock)

MI environmental group responds to pipeline enclosure appeal

A Michigan environmental group is addressing an appeal challenging the state's decision to approve the enclosure of the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline…

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has issued its busiest preseason Atlantic hurricane season forecast ever in 2024, predicting the North Atlantic could see 17 to 25 named storms, eight to 13 hurricanes, and four to seven major hurricanes by the end of November. (Adobe Stock)

New England braces for 'above-normal' hurricane season

Forecasters are warning New Englanders to prepare for an "above-normal" number of hurricanes this summer. Hurricane Beryl was already the strongest …

Older adults, very young children and people with chronic diseases are at highest risk for heat-related illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Adobe Stock/Generated with AI)

KY experts: Children, babies at higher risk for heat illness

Health experts are urging residents to stay hydrated and stay out of the sun during peak periods, especially during the heat wave that is gripping …

Diminishing snowpack in northern New Mexico due to climate change will shorten the season for skiing and other forms of winter tourism and recreation, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. (RaisaNastukova/AdobeStock)

Boosting ‘Hope’ about climate-change among NM's next generation

New Mexico teachers educating young people about climate change don't want them to feel hopeless - and they've developed an educational curriculum to …

The Black Swamp Conservancy has grown to protect more than 175 properties since 1997, covering more than 21,000 acres. (Linda/Adobe Stock)

Grants boost environmental education and restoration in Ohio

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is awarding $271,000 in grants for environmental education projects across the state. The programs will …

Weill Cornell Medicine notes that, along with drinking water to remain hydrated in extreme heat, foods such as watermelon, cantaloupe, grapefruit and homemade popsicles can work well, too. (Adobe Stock)

NY medical professional advises best ways to beat the heat

New York doctors are advising people how to stay healthy in the summer heat. Temperatures across the state will reach the high 80s and mid-90s in …

Along with extreme temperatures and public health-related states of emergency, a new Virginia law prevents utility shutoffs on Fridays, weekends and the day before or during state holidays. (Adobe Stock)

VA law prevents utility shutoffs in extreme circumstances

A new Virginia law protects residents from utility shutoffs in extreme weather. The law prevents utility company shutoffs when temperatures are at …

In 2022, officials blamed a heatwave for killing thousands of cattle in southwest Kansas. (JackieDavies/AdobeStock)

As mercury inches up, Kansas doctors offer heat safety tips

A heat wave is forecast for Kansas and health professionals said residents should be aware of options to get help, including local physicians who …

Overheating can cause heat-related illnesses when the body struggles to cool down. Some of these illnesses, such as heatstroke, are life-threatening emergencies. (Microgen/Adobe Stock)

Beat the heat: Crucial summer safety tips for staying cool and safe in PA

As summer heats up in Pennsylvania, staying safe, cool and healthy while enjoying the outdoors is vital. The National Weather Service predicts highs …

Health care providers said if you must be outside during the summer heat drink plenty of water and take multiple breaks. (praewpailyn/Adobe Stock)

Triple-digit temperatures create health concerns for Texans

The heat is already making it hard for Texans this summer with most regions reporting triple digit temperatures for multiple days. The National …

A University of Minnesota expert said drinking enough water helps your muscles work efficiently, a key benefit for those doing outdoor labor during hotter stretches. (Adobe Stock)

Ice cold water: A shield against hot temperatures, especially for outdoor workers

Minnesota could see temperatures reach the 90s in the coming days and as residents try to stay hydrated, one health expert said consistency is key…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends drinking 8 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes when doing strenuous activity outside, which translates to 24 to 32 ounces per hour. (Adobe Stock)

Health care professionals urge caution in Iowa heat

Health care experts are reminding Iowans to be careful in the summertime sun. From sunburns and bike safety to water accidents and sports injuries…

The ocean is a good place to cool off on summer days but water safety is key, especially for children. (richardbarrow/Adobe Stock)

Safety tips for enjoying outdoors on hot days of summer

South Carolina and much of the country has seen extreme heat since summer began but people still want to enjoy the outdoors and a few tips can help th…

Advocates of EVs warn charging stations should be installed by qualified technicians so as not to damage the car's battery pack. (Adobe Stock)

PA advocates say tide is turning for transition to electric vehicles

Clean air advocates are touting the benefits of electric vehicles in the wake of what they call "disinformation" from the U.S. petroleum industry…

The five signs of dehydration are less frequent urination, fatigue, headache, dry mouth and constipation. (buritora/Adobe Stock)

Essential tips for a safe and healthy Louisiana summer

The Climate Prediction Center predicts a 40% to 50% chance of above-normal temperatures in Louisiana this summer, which some people are already …

The gas-to-energy plant at the Keller Canyon landfill near Pittsburg, Calif., generates enough electricity to power nearly 2,200 homes. (Ameresco)

CA landfills increasingly turn methane gas into energy

By Miranda Lipton for Reasons to be Cheerful.Broadcast version by Suzanne Potter for California News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Ne…

Rising temperatures can cause spikes in emergency-room visits for heat-related issues and workplace injuries. (Adobe Stock)

Common-sense summer health, safety strategies offered

As a changing climate exposes Coloradans to more days of dangerously high temperatures, health experts are offering common-sense summer safety …

A dirty air filter can keep air conditioners from running optimally. (Kevin Brine/Adobe Stock)

Home cooling tips as hot summer days come to OR

As Oregon is seeing its first major heat event of the summer, some simple tips can help you keep your home cooler. Most of Oregon was under a heat …

Minnesota officials say a new roofing standard, created by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, has shown to reduce the costs of hail and wind-related damages by up to 60%. The standard is now being used for home resiliency programs. (Adobe Stock)

Roof repair grants could keep MN insurance claims from spiraling out of control

Minnesota is part of a patchwork of states trying to reimagine storm preparedness, by making roofs on homes stronger - before winds and hail fueled …

Finn Does (center), summit co-chair, and other youth participants at the 2023 Bay Area Youth Climate Summit in San Francisco. (Finn Does)<br />

'Composting' our emotions: How climate action cultivates well-being

By Elizabeth Hewitt for Reasons to be Cheerful.Broadcast version by Suzanne Potter for California News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism …

Recent wildfires and subsequent flooding have made some low-income households in New Mexicans eligible for federal disaster food assistance. (AdobeStock/goodmanphoto)

NM wildfires prompt precautions, new food assistance

New Mexicans affected by recent wildfires and subsequent flooding may be eligible for Disaster Supplemental Nutritional Program benefits. The …

A Michigan Healthy Climate Plan recommendation is to meet a goal of 100% clean energy no later than 2050. (pinkrabbit/Adobe Stock)

MI empowers disadvantaged communities for clean energy

The effects of climate change often hit Michigan's most vulnerable communities hardest, prompting state environmental organizations to take action…

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of emergency room visits related to heat-induced illnesses increased from an average of 151 per 100,000 visits in 2018-2022 to 180 per 100,000 in 2023. (Adobe Stock)

Ways to stay safe as heat-related illness ticks up

As the calendar turns to summer, emergency rooms start seeing more patients due to seasonal injuries and illnesses and expanded virtual health care …

When it comes to managing the summer heat, health experts suggest for every 15 minutes of outdoor activity, people should drink about four ounces of water, which is about four sizable gulps. (stevepb/Pixabay)

Essential summer safety tips for staying healthy in Florida heat

As the summer sun blazes, especially in the Sunshine State, it is easy to get caught up in the fun and excitement of the season. But according to …

The Conservation Fund said it aims to protect five million acres of forest by 2035. (Adobe Stock)

National project helps MN push back against deforestation

Deforestation remains a concern in the U.S. but success stories are emerging and Minnesota advocates said new achievements bode well for all …

In total, The Conservation Fund has protected 529,213 acres of land and water across the state of New York. (Adobe Stock)

Thousands of acres of NY forest land protected for conservation

Almost 200,000 acres of New York have been protected by The Conservation Fund. Their efforts in the Empire State come as the group, which protects …

Farmworkers laboring in extreme heat are at risk of heatstroke or even death. (F Armstrong Photo/Adobe Stock)

Biden administration's proposed heat rules would protect ID farmworkers

The Biden administration is proposing rules to protect workers from extreme heat. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said its …

Utilities are shutting off power in an effort to keep downed and damaged power lines from sparking blazes and fueling the West's more frequent and intense wildfires. (Adobe Stock)

CO Nursing homes left in dark as utilities cut power to prevent wildfires

By Kate Ruder for KFF Health News.Broadcast version by Eric Galatas for Colorado News Connection reporting for the KFF Health News-Public News Service…

Memphis Light, Gas and Water is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving more than 440,000 customers in Memphis and Shelby County. (Vika art/AdobeStock)

'Share the Pennies' weatherization program tackles climate solutions, reduces cost

By Ashli Blow for Tennessee Lookout.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Tennessee News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Publ…

As climate change activists continue to sound the alarm, policymakers have been more outspoken about the issue, prompting action plans at various levels. But a new national poll suggested many Americans are not quite as in tune with advancing renewables compared with a few years ago. (Adobe Stock)

Public less enthusiastic about renewables, but advocates still see path

New polling shows most Americans still favor non-fossil fuel energy sources, but support for certain renewables is not quite as strong these days and …

More wind generation has been coming online in Idaho in recent years. (Oleg Kovtun/Adobe Stock)

ID poll: Clean energy production, preserving nature compatible goals

A new poll shows Idahoans support the development of more clean energy in the state. In February, 500 likely Idaho voters were surveyed. Jillian …

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - July 26, 2024

2024Talks - July 26, 2024

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Climate Change

SCOTUS ruling impacts future action of VA, US

Dangerous floods loom following Montana wildfires

EPA clean-car standards projected to bring $100B annual benefits

NM voters get lowdown on far right's 'Project 2025'

EV industry praises federal investments in Michigan

Water contamination a concern in Midwest flood aftermath

Study finds IL birds feel the effects of climate change

Is your electric bill higher? Independent analysis says don't blame clean energy

Science Moms work to foster meaningful talks on climate change

MN poised to complete one of nation's largest solar farms after permit vote

USDA invests millions for 'climate-smart' ag programs in Midwest

MN berry grower adds solar power to his revenue stream

Report: SD ethanol plants release hazardous air pollutants

Report: Maine’s coastal infrastructure at risk as sea levels rise

Scientists reconsider net-zero pledges to reach climate goals

As temps climb, CA workers encouraged to know their rights

Colorado gets $156M from Inflation Reduction Act for 'Solar for All'

MI environmental group responds to pipeline enclosure appeal

New England braces for 'above-normal' hurricane season

KY experts: Children, babies at higher risk for heat illness

Boosting ‘Hope’ about climate-change among NM's next generation

Grants boost environmental education and restoration in Ohio

NY medical professional advises best ways to beat the heat

VA law prevents utility shutoffs in extreme circumstances

As mercury inches up, Kansas doctors offer heat safety tips

Beat the heat: Crucial summer safety tips for staying cool and safe in PA

Triple-digit temperatures create health concerns for Texans

Ice cold water: A shield against hot temperatures, especially for outdoor workers

Health care professionals urge caution in Iowa heat

Safety tips for enjoying outdoors on hot days of summer

PA advocates say tide is turning for transition to electric vehicles

Essential tips for a safe and healthy Louisiana summer

CA landfills increasingly turn methane gas into energy

Common-sense summer health, safety strategies offered

Home cooling tips as hot summer days come to OR

Roof repair grants could keep MN insurance claims from spiraling out of control

'Composting' our emotions: How climate action cultivates well-being

NM wildfires prompt precautions, new food assistance

MI empowers disadvantaged communities for clean energy

Ways to stay safe as heat-related illness ticks up

Essential summer safety tips for staying healthy in Florida heat

National project helps MN push back against deforestation

Thousands of acres of NY forest land protected for conservation

Biden administration's proposed heat rules would protect ID farmworkers

CO Nursing homes left in dark as utilities cut power to prevent wildfires

'Share the Pennies' weatherization program tackles climate solutions, reduces cost

Public less enthusiastic about renewables, but advocates still see path

ID poll: Clean energy production, preserving nature compatible goals