📰 Inside Climate News · 54
United StatesJames Bruggers, Who Brought Passion and Kindness to Environmental Reporting, Dies at 68
James Bruggers, an environmental journalist known for his dedication to exposing polluting industries and advocating for environmental justice, has passed away at 68. He worked for various publications, including Inside Climate News, and was recognized for his impactful storytelling that contributed to environmental cleanups and regulatory changes.
Green Economy Hits $10 Trillion in Market Value
A report by the London Stock Exchange Group indicates that the global green economy, defined as companies generating at least 20% of their revenue from environmentally focused activities, has reached a market value of $10 trillion. This growth is attributed to a 5.3% increase in green revenue in the previous year. The report highlights that green companies outperformed the broader market by approximately 12% over the past decade, despite challenges like political and social resistance, especially in countries retreating from climate investments. Climate economist Gernot Wagner emphasized the $
Alabama Limestone Quarry Settles Lawsuit Over Dust, Noise
Residents of Belle Mina, Alabama, have reached a settlement with a local limestone quarry over complaints of excessive dust, noise, and disruption caused by quarry operations. The lawsuit, filed by three residents and four churches, led to operational changes including reduced hours, buffer zones, and improved traffic management.
Federal Regulators Tell Electric Grid Operators to Fix Their Rules on Data Centers
Federal energy regulators have directed the nation's six major electric grid operators to reform their rules regarding how data centers and other large customers connect to the grid. The move comes amid rising energy demand from large consumers, which has strained power supplies and increased electricity costs in some areas. The regulators have asked the grid operators to submit proposals for reforms or justifications for current rules within 60 days, while also requiring reports on ensuring sufficient generation capacity for both existing and new large loads within 30 days. The goal is to加快连接
United Nations Climate Talks in Bonn Marked by ‘Sidestepping and Stalling’
The United States did not send a federal government delegation to the recent United Nations climate talks in Bonn, Germany. The absence of a U.S. delegation was influenced by the current administration's foreign and economic policies, which have raised concerns about climate action being overshadowed by military conflicts and economic rivalries. However, the disruptions also highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of moving away from fossil fuels. During the 11-day session, negotiators focused on achieving funding goals for climate adaptation and implementing existing climate accu7
How Shining a Light on Ships Could Help Solve Illegal Fishing
The article discusses the impact of industrial overfishing on local fisheries in Senegal, where traditional fishermen now have to travel farther out to sea due to depleted resources. It highlights the global issue of illegal fishing, estimated at $50 billion annually, and reports on a new international agreement signed at the Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya. Sixteen countries committed to increasing transparency and enforcement to combat illegal fishing.
Why General Motors Is Betting on Sodium-Ion Batteries
General Motors has partnered with startup Peak Energy to develop sodium-ion batteries for energy storage systems. Sodium-ion batteries are described as a more abundant and safer alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which are currently dominant but rely on rare and flammable materials like lithium and cobalt. Peak Energy's co-founder explains that sodium, found in table salt, is a widely available resource.
In Lawsuit Over Construction Raids, DHS Official Testifies ICE Agents Can't Trust REAL IDs
In a federal court hearing in Mobile, Alabama, Philip Lavoie, an acting assistant special agent with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), testified that REAL IDs 'can be unreliable to confirm U.S. citizenship.' This testimony was part of a civil rights lawsuit filed by Leo Garcia Venegas, an Alabama construction worker and U.S. citizen, who has been detained multiple times by immigration officers despite his citizenship status. The case centers on whether immigration agents can ignore government-issued IDs when detaining individuals suspected of being undocumented immigrants.
U.S. tells states to deal with unemployment fraud or face penalties
The U.S. Labor Department has warned all 50 states that they must address fraud and waste in unemployment insurance programs, or they risk losing federal funding. The warning comes from the Trump administration and focuses attention on three Democratic-controlled states—California, Illinois, and New York—which have faced scrutiny for issues like poor oversight, outdated systems, and weak identity verification. Acting Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling emphasized that states allowing such practices would face consequences.
Colombia Passes First-Ever National Law Requiring Beef to Be Traced Back to Its Origins
Colombia has enacted a new national law requiring beef to be traced back to its origin, aiming to combat deforestation linked to cattle ranching. Environmental groups view this as a potential model for other Amazon-region countries. The law follows investigations revealing that some Colombian supermarkets sold beef from cattle raised on illegally deforested land. This aligns with growing international pressure on commodity-exporting nations to ensure their products are deforestation-free, such as the EU's 2022 legislation.
Alabama’s Self-Proclaimed ‘AI Watchman’ Unseats Incumbent Public Service Commissioner
Jim Zeigler, a Republican candidate, won the primary for Alabama's Public Service Commissioner position. He expressed concerns about potential challenges from out-of-state campaign funding, referencing recent shifts in Georgia's elections. Zeigler emphasized the importance of lowering energy costs and regulating data centers to avoid voter backlash.
The Best Way To Keep Data Centers From Driving Up Electricity Costs
The article discusses public opposition to data centers due to concerns about rising electricity costs and resource usage. It references a poll showing widespread disapproval of building new data centers near residential areas. While acknowledging that data centers do not consume significant amounts of drinking water, the article notes ongoing debate about their impact on electricity prices. It cites research indicating a slight, statistically insignificant correlation between data centers and rising electricity prices, while also noting instances where new data centers coincide with lower电价.
‘We Just Want Clean Water’: Residents Sue a North Carolina County Over Landfill Contamination
Residents of St. Pauls, North Carolina, led by Viv Tolson Wayne, have sued Robeson County over alleged contamination from the Robeson County Landfill. The lawsuit, filed by the St. Pauls Community Association for Progress and the Southern Environmental Law Center, claims the landfill is leaking per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which pose an imminent danger to public health and the environment. The case is based on violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.
The Hottest World Cup in History
The 2026 World Cup is being described as the hottest in history due to rising global temperatures linked to climate change. The article highlights concerns about extreme heat affecting both players and spectators across host cities in the U.S. and Mexico. Scientific studies indicate that climate change has increased the frequency of extremely hot summer days in 14 of the 16 host cities, with Miami particularly at risk. The article contrasts this with the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where the tournament was moved to winter to avoid extreme heat.
A Sloth Exhibitor Shut Down by New York Wants a Florida Comeback—and Florida Licensed Him
An exotic animal exhibitor, Larry Wallach, whose previous business was shut down by New York courts due to unsafe conditions and legal violations, is seeking to reopen in Florida. Despite past issues, including repeated inspections finding unsanitary conditions and failure to comply with court orders, Wallach has applied for a new business called Wildlife Adventures. Animal welfare advocates criticize the lack of strong regulations and enforcement that allows such operators to continue their activities.
Utah National Monument Survives Attempt to Rescind its Management Plan
Autumn Gillard, a cultural resource manager for the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, has been advocating for the protection of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. She expressed concern over the damage to ancient petroglyphs, including graffiti and theft attempts, which threaten both cultural heritage and educational opportunities for visitors. Recently, the coalition she leads successfully resisted congressional efforts to rescind the monument's management plan.
‘Sponge Cities’ Are Catching On. But Can They Handle Supercharged Storms?
In 2011, a severe storm hit Copenhagen, causing over $1 billion in damage and prompting the city to implement 'Sponge City' strategies involving green spaces and engineered stormwater infrastructure. Similar initiatives have been adopted globally, including in Hong Kong and New York. However, experts warn that rising global temperatures are increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, challenging the effectiveness of these measures. Urban infrastructure, such as concrete and asphalt, contributes to flooding risks by preventing water absorption.
Emergency Drawdown at Flaming Gorge Hits Its Recreation Economy
The article discusses the impact of declining water levels at Flaming Gorge Reservoir on local recreation and the economy, focusing on the challenges faced by marina owner Tony Valdez. The reservoir's drop in water level has led to damaged infrastructure, such as buckled boat ramps, and threatens the future viability of recreational activities. The article also touches on the reservoir's original purpose as part of a legal agreement designed to provide water security during droughts.
Scientists have found sea oases that could survive climate change
A new analysis of tens of thousands of research papers has identified areas across dozens of countries where coral reefs show greater resilience to rising ocean temperatures and other threats. Scientists have identified nearly 166,000 square kilometers of coral reefs believed capable of surviving and recovering from climate change impacts. This area is almost three times larger than previous estimates. Coral reefs represent one of the most important habitats in global oceans, providing homes for approximately a quarter of all marine life on Earth. In recent decades, these ecosystems have faced
Months After a Jet Fuel Leak, No Agency Tested Waters Downstream of Piscataway Creek. So Community Groups Are Doing It Themselves.
A jet fuel leak occurred at Joint Base Andrews in December, spilling approximately 22,000 gallons into Piscataway Creek. Despite this, no agency tested the water or sediment downstream of the creek, where it flows into the Potomac River. Local community groups have taken initiative to conduct their own testing. The base stated they have not sampled water at Fort Washington Park but have collaborated with the Maryland Department of the Environment for sampling on and near the base.
Trump Administration Abandons Fight Against Wind Energy as Clean Energy Output Surges
The Trump administration has abandoned its legal challenge against a court ruling that invalidated President Donald Trump's executive order freezing federal permits and leases for wind energy projects. The decision follows a December 8 ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Patti Saris, who deemed the order 'arbitrary and capricious' and beyond the president's authority. A coalition of 17 state attorneys general and Washington, D.C., led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, had challenged the order. Environmental groups have praised the outcome, highlighting the continued growth of clean,
Microsoft’s Clean Energy Reversal Collides with Virginia’s Climate Goals
Microsoft is reconsidering its commitment to using 100% clean energy at all times by 2030 due to the high energy demands of its expanding data center operations in Virginia. The state has set its own climate goals, creating tension between Microsoft's energy needs and environmental objectives. Data centers are being built in multiple locations across Virginia, including Mecklenburg County and Northern Virginia, with plans to significantly increase the number of employees in the state.
As Global Warming Threatens Corals Worldwide, Woods Hole Scientists Search for ‘Super Reefs’ That Can Take the Heat
Researchers at Woods Hole are studying 'super reefs' in the Marshall Islands that may be more resilient to global warming. These reefs could potentially help repopulate more degraded areas in the Central Pacific if protected.
Pandemic Roulette
Inside Climate News reports on the implications of sloth deaths in Florida, linking them to the global wildlife trade and potential risks to public health. The article features insights from a former CDC epidemiologist who refers to the wildlife trade as 'pandemic roulette.'
A Commercial Space Race Prompts a Thorny Question: Who Owns the Sky?
The article discusses concerns raised by experts about the increasing number of commercial satellites launching into Earth's atmosphere. These satellites are seen as potentially polluting the atmosphere and threatening the natural view of the night sky. Scientists warn that this surge could disrupt humanity's connection with the cosmos.
A Massive Volunteer Network in Florida Works to Save Endangered Sea Turtles
A group of volunteers in Florida has been working to rescue endangered sea turtles, including a recent effort to save Bowser, a 172-pound loggerhead sea turtle found at Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. Volunteers used ropes to pull the turtle to safety.
‘Their Breath Was Captured in the Tree’
An interview with botanist and author Beronda Montgomery discusses her book 'When Trees Testify,' which explores the interconnected histories of American trees, Black Americans, and the nation's past.
Trump’s EPA Unlawfully Cancelled Environmental Justice Grants, Judge Rules
A federal judge in South Carolina ruled that the Trump administration's cancellation of environmental justice grants was illegal. The decision voided the EPA guidance to terminate the $2.8 billion grant program but did not require the agency to restart it. The ruling is seen as a setback for efforts to dismantle a Biden-era initiative aimed at addressing environmental and public health issues in underserved communities.
Hoover Dam Approaches a Hydropower Cliff
The article discusses the potential decline in hydropower generation at the Hoover Dam due to dropping water levels in Lake Mead, which could fall below a critical threshold within the next year.
Despite Record Renewable Growth, China Is Still Betting on Coal
China's power-sector emissions decreased in 2025 for the first time in a decade, but an increase in coal-fired electricity generation in early 2026 has raised concerns that the reduction might be short-lived, even though renewable energy production reached record levels.
Threads of Earth’s Underground Fungal Networks Are Long Enough to Reach Beyond the Solar System
A new study estimates that global arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal networks—underground webs that connect plant roots—span approximately 110 quadrillion kilometers. These networks play a crucial role in nutrient exchange between plants and fungi, sequestering about 1 billion tons of carbon annually. Researchers from the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) used a combination of literature reviews, soil samples, machine learning, and lab tests to create the first global map of these networks.
Pennsylvania Activists Urge Lawmakers to Help Curb Soaring Electric Bills
Pennsylvania activists, including the Natural Resources Defense Council and state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, are urging lawmakers to implement policies aimed at reducing rising electricity bills. They propose measures such as requiring large energy users like data centers to generate their own power, limiting utility profits, and accelerating the integration of clean energy projects. A report by Synapse Energy Economics suggests these changes could lead to significant cost savings for households and the state by 2030.
Biscayne Bay Is Slowly Becoming the Ocean
Biscayne Bay, located near Miami, is experiencing significant environmental changes including increased temperature, salinity, and acidity over the past two decades. These changes are linked to rising ocean temperatures and have led to declines in populations of several endangered marine species such as the great hammerhead shark and sawfish. Despite these deteriorating conditions, many local residents perceive the bay as only 'moderately healthy.' A recent study from the University of Miami highlights these environmental shifts, which are occurring gradually and are difficult to detect even对于
An Old Well Gushed Waste, Not Oil, in a Small West Texas Town
An old oil well in Grandfalls, Texas, unexpectedly released over 1.5 million gallons of toxic wastewater in April. State regulators spent nearly $2.7 million to plug the well and dispose of the wastewater. The incident has raised concerns among local residents and church officials about the risks posed by aging infrastructure in the Permian Basin. Wastewater from oil and gas operations is typically injected underground, but this has led to increased pressure that can cause leaks through old wells. The Railroad Commission ordered nearby injection wells to halt operations during the cleanup.
On the Historic Route From Selma to Montgomery, an AI Cloud Looms
The article discusses the historical significance of Highway 80 in Alabama, where the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march for voting rights took place. Today, the same highway is at the center of a new controversy involving a proposed hyperscale data center called Project Red Clay. Local residents and civil rights activists have expressed strong opposition to the development, citing concerns about economic, environmental, and health impacts. During an open house event, developers faced significant resistance from the community.
Across Ecosystems, Dead Organisms Help Shape the Living World
A new study published in Science Advances highlights the significant role that dead organisms play in shaping ecosystems across various environments. The research suggests that the remains of 'foundation species'—such as trees, grasses, corals, and oysters—influence the growth, survival, and composition of living organisms within their ecosystems. The findings indicate that these effects are widespread and often overlooked.
North Carolina Sues Chemical Company for Polluting a Nearby Creek
North Carolina is suing Brenntag Mid-South, a chemical repackaging and distribution company, for allegedly discharging toxic chemicals into a neighborhood creek in Durham. The creek flows through a predominantly Black community and into a major drinking water supply. The state is seeking a court order requiring the company to submit a cleanup plan within 30 days. Local officials and residents have expressed concerns about the environmental and health impacts of the pollution.
Trump Admin Guts Vital Sea Monitoring, "Tears Out the Eyes and Ears of Science": David Helvarg
The Trump administration is dismantling the Ocean Observatories Initiative, a network of over 900 ocean floor sensors that provide critical data on marine ecosystems, ocean currents, and global climate patterns. The initiative, funded by the National Science Foundation, was established a decade ago at a cost of $370 million. The decommissioning process has already started and is expected to be completed next year. The decision aligns with recommendations from the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 playbook for Trump’s presidency. Scientists warn that this move could hinder climate monitoring,
Why an Activist From Texas Crossed the World to Confront Asia’s Biggest Petrochemical Company
Diane Wilson, a retired shrimp boat captain and longtime environmental activist from Texas, traveled to Taiwan to confront Formosa Plastics Corp., a major petrochemical company, during its shareholder meeting. Wilson, who has been involved in environmental activism for decades, joined forces with Lin Chun Lan, a Taiwanese oyster farmer and critic of Formosa Plastics. Both individuals have faced opposition from local authorities due to their efforts to hold the company accountable for environmental harm.
America Is Policing Foreign Waters, but Gutting Domestic Protections
The Trump administration has implemented visa restrictions targeting individuals involved in illegal fishing, including a former Argentine official linked to a Patagonian toothfish harvesting scandal and a senior Mexican cartel member involved in smuggling endangered fish. This marks the first use of visa bans to address marine poaching. The policy aligns with an executive order aimed at restoring American seafood competitiveness, though environmental groups have criticized broader deregulation efforts.
Driven by Steel Production, China’s Belt and Road Construction Carries a Heavy Climate Cost
Two studies conclude that China's Belt and Road Initiative has substantial climate impact, with more than half its emissions from steel production primarily manufactured in China. The studies recommend stronger regulations and incentives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Chinese manufacturing.
Heat Is Killing Wildlife Across the Animal Kingdom. A New Forecasting Tool May Help.
Inside Climate News reports on a new forecasting tool designed to predict heat risks for wildlife months in advance, while noting uncertainty about its real-world effectiveness at scale. The article cites the recent death of eight endangered Asiatic lions in an Indian national park, with officials suspecting a tick-borne parasitic disease.
The Terrible Combined With the Good
The article discusses the Ratepayer Protection Act being considered by the North Carolina legislature, which combines two contrasting elements: limiting data center energy consumption to protect consumers' electricity costs and relaxing restrictions on Duke Energy's use of fossil fuels, potentially undoing progress on climate change policies. A local advocate criticizes the combination of these opposing ideas into a single bill.
Wildfires Are Reversing Years of US Air Quality Gains, Study Finds
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Iowa found that wildfires have significantly worsened ozone levels in the United States over the past decade, reversing approximately four years of air quality improvements. The study, funded by NASA, analyzed surface ozone levels using AI and machine learning, incorporating satellite data and air quality forecasts. Researchers reported an increase in premature deaths linked to fire-sourced ozone since 2013 and emphasized the importance of monitoring air pollution forecasts during wildfire seasons.
Trump Administration Emergency Order to Keep Florida Coal Plant Running
The Trump administration issued an emergency order to keep a Florida coal-fired power plant operating past its scheduled 2025 retirement. The order cited an energy emergency tied to a shortage of generation facilities and growing electricity demand from data centers. The plant is located in Orlando.
Troubled by Spreading Landfill Pollution, a Long Island Community Demands Action
Residents of Brookhaven, Long Island, gathered at a town hall meeting to express concerns over groundwater contamination caused by a local landfill. Monique Fitzgerald and her group, the Brookhaven Landfill Action and Remediation Group, have called for the landfill's closure due to longstanding worries about pollution. The contamination plume extends under homes and roads and reaches Beaver Dam Creek, though no drinking water sources have been affected yet. Town officials considered options like closing the landfill or treating contaminated groundwater but opted for an alternative approach.
Wild Rice Faces Numerous Threats—and Has Determined Protectors
The article discusses the decline of wild rice (manoomin), a culturally significant plant for Indigenous communities in the upper Midwest, and the efforts by members of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa to protect it. The text describes traditional harvesting practices and highlights concerns over threats such as changing land use and climate change. It also mentions challenges in locating and restoring wild rice habitats, as well as reduced federal support under the Trump administration.
Mass Sloth Deaths in Florida Are a Warning About Wildlife Trade and Pandemic Risk, Scientists Say
Pathologists discovered multiple pathogens in deceased sloths from a planned Florida tourist attraction called Sloth World. The sloths showed signs of severe illness, including distended stomachs, diarrhea, and lung congestion. The facility closed before opening due to public backlash following an investigation. Experts warn that the wildlife trade poses significant pandemic risks, as it facilitates the mutation and spread of pathogens.
A Water Crisis Has The ‘Poster Boys’ of Iowa Farming Ready to Talk Regulation
James Hepp, a third-generation farmer in Iowa, is advocating for mandatory regulations to address agricultural runoff pollution, which has contributed to a water crisis. Hepp uses conservation techniques such as limited tilling and reduced fertilizer application to protect soil and water quality. Despite these efforts, he feels frustrated by the lack of progress under Iowa's voluntary Nutrient Reduction Strategy, which has existed for over a decade.
Montana Officials Warn of Elevated Wildfire Risk From Increasing Drought, Heat and Wind
Montana officials are warning that the 2026 wildfire season could bring above-normal fire risk due to increasing drought, heat, and wind. Governor Greg Gianforte participated in a statewide briefing with various officials to prepare for the fire season, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between state, local, federal, and tribal agencies. The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation stated it is fully staffed but noted that local volunteer firefighting units face recruitment challenges.
A New DC ‘Museum’ Raises Awareness About the Looming Consequences of Extreme Weather
A pop-up exhibit called the 'Museum of Unnatural Disasters' has been set up in Washington D.C. to raise awareness about the consequences of extreme weather. Curated by Sam Hartman, a survivor of Hurricane Helene, the exhibit features artifacts and stories from individuals affected by various extreme weather events across the United States. The exhibit includes roundtable discussions with climate experts, members of Congress, and disaster survivors to discuss the economic impact of extreme weather and potential solutions.
Trump Funds Two New Coal Plants and Extends Another Dozen, Citing ‘Energy Dominance’
The article reports on recent federal funding decisions by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to support coal plants across multiple states. This includes $425 million to extend the operations of 12 existing coal plants and an additional $350 million allocated for two new coal plants in Alaska and West Virginia. The funding is described as part of a broader strategy aimed at promoting 'energy dominance.' A representative from the environmental advocacy group Appalachian Voices comments on the continued reliance on coal in West Virginia, noting the lack of investment in alternative energy and憂
Feds Will Soon Impose New Framework on Colorado River if States Can’t Agree How to Manage It
The federal government plans to implement a 10-year operating framework for managing water use in the Colorado River Basin by the end of summer if the seven states involved fail to agree on a management plan. This follows years of unsuccessful negotiations and the expiration of current drought mitigation guidelines at the end of September. State and tribal leaders expressed concerns that the proposed framework would create ongoing uncertainty and potentially conflict with existing legal frameworks governing the river.
Trump Administration Doubles Down on Coal Power in North Carolina
Duke Energy has applied for a $28.4 million federal grant to upgrade two coal-fired power units at its Roxboro plant in Person County, North Carolina. The funding comes under the U.S. Department of Energy's invocation of the Cold War-era Defense Production Act, which the Trump administration is using to support fossil fuel infrastructure. Duke Energy plans to match the federal funds with $44 million in ratepayer money. The upgrades aim to ensure continued reliable power delivery while keeping costs low, according to a company statement.