environment
EarthTalk: What about Monarch butterflies?
Dear EarthTalk: What is the status of the monarch butterfly in the U.S. and is it listed as threatened or endangered? —M. Smith, Raleigh, NC Feb. 28. The monarch butterfly, known for its awe-inspiring migration across North America, has become a symbol of both ecological wonder and environmental decline. Once abundant across the continent, their […]
Wastewater spill near 18325 Taffrail
Feb. 27. Charlotte Water crews responded to a wastewater overflow near 18325 Taffrail Way in Cornelius. An estimated 90 gallons reached Lake Norman. Most homes along the lakes are served by low pressure sewer systems that convey waste to a gravity fed sewer to wastewater treatment plants. A damaged a low pressure pipe caused the […]
Update: Another controlled burn today
Feb. 27. [UPDATED Feb. 28] Mecklenburg County Natural Resources is conducting another controlled burn Friday beginning around 10:15 am at Latta Nature Preserve. It’s the third day of controlled burns, with Thursday starting at 11 am. Smoke will affect air quality in the downwind area for 2-3 hours. More info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/prescribed-fire To reduce your exposure […]
EarthTalk: What’s up with atmospheric rivers?
Dear EarthTalk: What’s the connection between climate change and an increase in so-called atmospheric rivers? —John H., Bridgeport, CT Feb. 7. Atmospheric rivers are narrow bands of water vapor that form in the mid to high latitudes. These can span several miles and carry immense amounts of water—up to 27 times the flow of the […]
EarthTalk: Can we store CO2 in building materials?
Dear EarthTalk: Is it really possible to store large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) in building materials like concrete and plastic? If so, why don’t we do more of it already? —P.L., via email The construction industry, a major contributor to carbon emissions, has an untapped potential to become a powerful ally in […]
EarthTalk: What is congestion pricing?
Dear EarthTalk: What exactly is congestion pricing as just implemented in New York City and how will it help the environment? Should other cities also adopt this policy? —H.M., San Diego, CA Jan. 24. New York City recently became the first U.S. city to implement congestion pricing, a strategy aimed to reduce traffic in extremely […]
EarthTalk: Could bamboo be the future of sustainable construction?
Dear EarthTalk: Why are some people in the green building industry so bullish on bamboo? —Tim Carey, Puyallup, WA Jan. 17. Bamboo, one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet, is well-known as a rudimentary building material used for many centuries. Today, although the resource is often limited to scaffolding or remote housing projects, advocates […]
EarthTalk: What is Jimmy Carter’s environmental legacy?
Dear EarthTalk: What is Jimmy Carter’s environmental legacy? —B.N., Athens, GA Jan. 10. Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. President, made a lasting impact on environmental policy. His robust initiatives to protect natural resources and advance clean energy established the foundation for environmental policy in subsequent decades. Despite obstacles, his efforts in land preservation, energy efficiency […]
EarthTalk: Attention cranberry sauce lovers
Dear EarthTalk: Is climate change decimating the cranberry industry? —D.K., Chico, CA Dec. 20. Cranberries are a vital crop in the U.S., deeply intertwined with the nation’s agricultural economy and cultural identity. Grown predominantly in Massachusetts, New Jersey and Wisconsin, cranberries significantly contribute to regional economies. However, the industry now faces growing challenges due to […]
EarthTalk: Is dish soap really that bad?
Dear EarthTalk: Are mainstream dish soaps really that bad for the planet? And if so, what are some greener alternatives? —P. McGrath, Boulder, CO Dec. 13. Popular dish soaps often claim to easily tackle grease, leave dishes sparkling clean and uphold commitments to sustainability and safety. But the promises are often misleading. These products may […]
