Gulf Coast
Tulane scientist resigns, citing ‘gag order’ on environmental justice research
Emails show a racial disparities study angered elected Louisiana officials and potential donors to a $600 million university-led redevelopment project
Latest
Data Centers
Data centers are building their own gas power plants in Texas
Not so long ago, developers of the massive server farms talked about powering them with wind and solar power. But now, with the coming of power-hungry AI platforms, they’re bypassing the grid, building their own gas-fired power plants on site.
Sustainable Building
California board hits pause on plan to phase out gas appliances
A coalition that includes SoCalGas had launched a fierce campaign against a proposed transition from gas-fired furnaces and water heaters
Renewables
Support for renewables shrinks as fossil fuel interest grows
Observers blame ‘culture wars’ while Republican consultant says messaging must emphasize economic, not environmental, benefits
Gulf Coast
How Big Oil is ruining a small ‘slice of heaven’ town in Texas
Export terminals shipping nearly half of U.S. crude oil have formed around Ingleside on the Bay, turning the coastal town into an unlikely ‘fenceline’ community.
Sustainable Building
The gas lobby is weakening Southern California’s boldest clean-air plan in decades
A coalition that includes SoCalGas has launched a fierce campaign against a transition away from gas-fired furnaces and water heaters
Sustainable Building
This little-known ‘dark roof’ lobby may be making your city hotter
As cities heat up, reflective roofs could lower energy bills and help the climate. But dark roofing manufacturers are waging a quiet campaign to block new rules.
Carbon Capture
Trump admin cuts $3.7B for industrial decarbonization and carbon capture
The decision will devastate ambitious efforts to cut emissions from heavy industry ranging from food production to chemicals.
Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental groups sue over Louisiana’s ban on community air monitoring
Meanwhile, a state task force’s call for beefed up air monitoring in areas affected by industrial pollution appears to be falling on deaf ears.
Inflation Reduction Act
Trump’s USDA resurrects one climate grant program, kills another
Many farmers who spent big on solar are finally getting reimbursed. But another climate program for agriculture is headed for the morgue.
Powering Rural Futures
From EVs to HVAC, clean energy means jobs in Central Illinois
Decatur has been losing factory jobs for years. A clean energy workforce hub promises renewal — and provides training for students from disenfranchised communities.
Renewables
Redlining shaped the power grid. Communities of color are still paying the price.
The clean energy transition is moving forward, but the legacy of segregation leaves many urban neighborhoods locked out.