Environment

Seattle's Climate Action Plan Hits the Streets
The potential for congestion pricing is only one component of a new Climate Action Plan that focuses on transportation's role in emitting greenhouse gases.

Why Would Arizona Deregulate Groundwater Now?
For decades the arid state has required most new construction projects to demonstrate adequate water supply, but at the edge of the next dry spell, two lawmakers are trying to get rid of the rules.

Houston Seriously Tightens Rules on Floodplain Construction
It was the city's "first major regulatory response" to Hurricane Harvey.

Maybe National Park Entrance Fees Won't Triple After All
After public outcry, Department of the Interior officials seem to have changed their mind about raising the price of entrance fees into National Parks.

When Coastal States Kill Building Codes, FEMA Pays
Despite the increasing number and intensity of natural disasters, some vulnerable states are relaxing building regulations and leaving the federal government to pick up the tab when tragedy strikes again.

More Bad News for Tesla—This Time From the EPA
A rollback of fuel economy standards carries huge financial consequences for the all-electric vehicle manufacturer that makes over $300 million annually by selling credits to auto manufacturers unable to achieve current fuel economy standards.

Master Plan Aims to Reduce Car Trips in Portland's Washington Park
Washington Park is described as the jewel in the crown of Portland's park system. The city recently updated its master plan for the first time since 1981.

Walkability Needs Nature
The healthiest neighborhoods are both walkable and green, according to a growing body of evidence.

Rollback of Fuel Efficiency Standards Announced by EPA
EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt announced Monday that his agency is siding with auto manufacturers and relaxing greenhouse gas emission standards for new cars and light trucks.

New Institute for Health in the Built Environment Formed at the University of Oregon
A new research institute in the University of Oregon's College of Design reflects the ongoing need to put planners and designers to work in delivering better public health outcomes.

Calling for a New Approach to Flood Mitigation
The American Planning Association was one of 14 national organizations to sign a letter of support for S.1507, which would partner states and the federal government in providing low-interest loans for stormwater infrastructure projects.

As Climate Shifts, Cincinnati Mayor Boosts Solar Investments
The Ohio city recently announced a plan to build the nation's largest municipally owned onsite solar array. The plan builds on a decade of increasingly ambitious climate action.

Energy Demand and Carbon Emissions Increased in 2017, Just Not Everywhere
The International Energy Agency found that China and India were responsible for 40 percent of the increased energy demand. The biggest decrease in carbon dioxide emissions came from the U.S., largely due to increased use of renewables.

How One Lake Erie Town Got Free Waterfront Property for Public Use
Clear communication and a fair trade let Euclid, Ohio begin to rethink its lakefront—and its future.

Houston's Latest Stormwater Project: 'Massive, Underground Tunnels'
The most recent post-Harvey proposal would mean the city could endure enormous rain events, but so far it's not clear who would pay for it.

Allegheny River Town Debates Fracking Water Treatment Plant
Opponents cite environmental risks, supporters hope the facility will boost the economy of a struggling community.

How Cities Undercount Greenhouse Gas Emissions
By the usual measures, wealthy "consumer cities" have largely put a check on their carbon emissions. But that doesn't account for the emissions that their consumption habits fuel in other places.

Phoenix Called Out as the 'Least Sustainable' City in the World
Phoenix is growing, it's now America's fifth largest city, but its water supply is shrinking.

How Green Is Your Electric Vehicle?
Check the fuel source before making any assumptions.

The Sorry State of Environmental Enforcement in Texas
Industry is "routinely violating" clean water laws, but both state and federal regulators seem to be looking the other way.
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