Trash or Recycling? Why Plastic Keeps Us Guessing.
2026-05-10
Did you know the “recycling” symbol doesn’t mean something is actually recyclable? Play our trashy garbage-sorting game, then read about why this is so tricky.Continue Reading
Next-generation geothermal energy: Promise, progress, and challenges
2026-05-10
Geothermal energy, a clean, continuous energy source accessible in many locations, has been slow to catch on. Nearly 2,000 years ago, the Romans made extensive use of geothermal energy — heat from the Earth — including at the spa complex at present-day Bath, England. Electricity was first produced from geothermalContinue Reading
Two Years After Completion, Plant Vogtle Still Looms Over the Nuclear Debate
2026-05-10
As states consider a new wave of reactors, the fallout of the most expensive power project in U.S. history offers a cautionary tale. By Ryan Krugman As states across the country weigh a new wave of nuclear energy, many in Georgia are urging caution. Two years after Plant Vogtle’s newestContinue Reading
Scientists successfully transfer longevity gene and extend lifespan
2026-05-10
Scientists at the University of Rochester pulled off a remarkable experiment: they transferred a longevity-related gene from the famously long-lived naked mole rat into mice, and the mice ended up healthier and lived longer. The special gene boosts production of a substance called high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which appearsContinue Reading
After exile, California tribes could help run their ancestral redwoods again
2026-05-10
A fight over California’s redwood forests pits tribes and environmentalists against loggers as lawmakers consider a bill to reimagine the state’s 14 demonstration forests.Continue Reading
Plugging Away at the Millions of Derelict Oil and Gas Wells in the US
2026-05-10
The Well Done Foundation is remediating abandoned and orphaned fossil fuel wells that pollute water, soils and the atmosphere. But plugging a borehole can be even harder than drilling it. Story and photos by J. Matt OKMULGEE, Okla.—There are a few truisms in the oil and gas industry: It isContinue Reading
“Cannot be explained” – New ultra stainless steel stuns researchers
2026-05-10
A team at the University of Hong Kong has developed a new “super steel” that can survive the harsh conditions needed to make green hydrogen from seawater. The material uses an unexpected double-protection mechanism that resists corrosion far better than conventional stainless steel. Even more impressive, it could replace costlyContinue Reading
Inside the Indigenous Fight to Save Alaska’s Bristol Bay
2026-05-10
Bound by a common threat, unlikely allies of tribes, commercial fishermen and the conservation community came together to stop a gold and copper mine, and won. Interview by Steve Curwood, Living on Earth From our collaborating partner “Living on Earth,” public radio’s environmental news magazine, an interview by host SteveContinue Reading
War with Iran has aviation costs sky high. Are there alternatives to jet fuel?
2026-05-10
As the blockade of the Straight of Hormuz has sent jet fuel costs and airplane seat prices soaring. NPR’s Emily Kwong looks at the viability of alternatives such as sustainable aviation fuel.Continue Reading
Wild Swimming and Stargazing in Madagascar’s Grand Canyon
2026-05-09
A parched corner of an island often called the eighth continent rewards intrepid visitors with hidden pools, celestial wonders and extraordinary wildlife.Continue Reading
The Traitor Panel Recommends FEMA Respond to Fewer Disasters
2026-05-09
A White House task force called for speeding up aid and responding to fewer disasters. But some of its ideas would require action by Congress to become reality.Continue Reading
Nuclear energy in the Middle East: A realistic choice or a risk?
2026-05-09
As global electricity demand grows, so does the popularity of nuclear energy. In the Middle East, several countries are evaluating or advancing nuclear power projects, balancing weighty issues such as regional security, climatic conditions and international cooperation.Continue Reading
From shelter to strength: How disaster refuges protect lives in Palau
2026-05-09
The small Pacific Ocean island of Palau is helping communities build resilience against the dangers of climate change-driven extreme weather with the establishment of a network of emergency refuges – thanks to support from the United Nations.Continue Reading