Environment

Unintended consequences: Climate-hacking poses big ethical questions

As the effects of climate change begin to take a tangible toll, should we be thinking more seriously about geoengineering? Maybe. But if we do, we need to think carefully about the ethics as well as the technology.

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First Look Flood-prone cities look to sustainable urban design for solutions

As nations set ambitious climate goals, many consider urban design as a potential solution to flooding and other natural disasters. Copenhagen has taken the lead, with a brand-new neighborhood designed to promote green modes of transportation.

Harvey, Florence, and the climate change connection

When it comes to teasing out climate change's role in extreme weather, hurricanes are the most controversial topic. An emerging field of science is starting to connect those dots more directly than ever before.
Focus How one Iowa town made peace with the Mississippi River

River communities often struggle to keep surging floodwaters from destroying property. In Davenport, Iowa, however, residents have instead learned to live with the ebbs and flows of the Mississippi.
First Look Federal judge blocks hunting against grizzly bears

On the cusp of the first grizzly bear in hunt in three decades, a federal judge has ruled they still need protection under the Endangered Species Act. Critics say a growing bear population poses a threat to humans and livestock in the American West.
Cover Story Camp Amazon: Inside the 'lungs of the Earth'

Our writer stays at an outpost run by famed ecologist Thomas Lovejoy to find out about climate change and saving the world’s most important rainforest. It's a tale of bearded monkeys, exotic birds, and no snakes.
First Look Facing a population boom, an Indonesian city goes green

As they grow at a rapid rate, Asia's cities pose a threat to worldwide carbon emission goals. But one city in Indonesia is actively working against that risk through targeted policies and technology, including strict development laws, car-free days, and urban farms.

First Look How hurricane Michael grew into third largest storm to hit US

Low pressure, lack of wind shear to drive it back, and warmer than normal Gulf waters combined to allow hurricane Michael to reach its full potential as a Category 4 hurricane. Scientists say global warming will continue to increase the rapid intensification of tropical weather.
Arkansas alchemy: In Hot Springs’s rebirth, a lesson for national parks

As some national parks face disengagement, decay, and financial strain, one has managed to revitalize itself in enterprising ways. What can others learn from Hot Springs National Park?
Amid dire climate warnings, blue state pledges carry new weight

With thousands of scientists calling for transformational climate action, many Americans are looking to local governments to lead the climate action charge. How close can regional efforts take us?
First Look Solar power to deliver unique benefits to war-prone and disaster areas

Aid groups are eying solar energy as a possible replacement for diesel generators in areas in need of rebuilding, such as Syria where fuel is costly and unreliable. In some cases, sabotaging fuel supplies in this region has been used as a weapon of war.
First Look Even as it grows, Seattle aims to go carbon neutral

Seattle's greenhouse gas emissions have fallen 6 percent since 2008, while its population grew 13 percent over the same period. In order to balance the two, the city is looking to build "living buildings," or structures that produce more energy than they consume.
Business case for climate action grows as IPCC intensifies warnings

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's sobering new climate report reiterates in dire terms the need for a full-court press of climate action. Corporations are starting to heed those calls.
First Look Black residents cite environmental racism as reason for pollution

In Uniontown, Ala., a landfill next to a historic black cemetery overflows with coal ash. A cheese plant leaks lime green sludge into a creek, and tap water is undrinkable. Complaints from the town's residents, who are mostly black and poor, have not led to any action.