When The State Sinks, Science Is The Anchor
As history has shown, political and ideological repression passes — but scientific knowledge remains, says astrophysicist Marcelo Gleiser.
Environment
'Healing Through Harvesting': Gleaning Unwanted Fruit Helps Refugees In Need
A volunteer network not only gathers wasted, oft-ignored foods and turns them into healthy meals, but also provides community and opportunities for those whose lives have been radically disrupted.
Fees To Enter Popular National Parks Would Skyrocket Under Interior Department Plan
Entrance costs would more than double at the country's 17 busiest parks. The park service says it needs to pay for deferred maintenance. But the increases may make the parks less accessible.
As California's Population Grows, People Are Moving Into More Fire-Prone Areas
As Santa Rosa begins rebuilding from the wildfires, the city will have to address the alarming trend of sprawl in to fire-prone areas. It's a little-discussed aspect of the state's housing crisis.
Climate Change Journalist Warns: 'Mother Nature Is Playing By Different Rules Now'
Author Jeff Goodell says that American cities are under threat from extreme weather, rising sea levels and lax enforcement of environmental regulations. His new book is The Water Will Come.
Wine Organization Forecasts Historically Bad Year Due To Weather Events
Europe, home to the world's leading wine producers, is making wine at significantly lower levels than usual – and that's because of weather such as frost and drought that have damaged vineyards.
China Shuts Down Tens Of Thousands Of Factories In Unprecedented Pollution Crackdown
After decades of doing little about the pollution that has plagued much of the country, China's government is temporarily shutting down entire industrial regions to inspect for violations.
Digging In The Mud To See What Toxic Substances Were Spread By Hurricane Harvey
Hurricane Harvey dumped 50 inches of rain on parts of Houston. Scientists are now trying to identify contaminants spread by the storm, including those in mud at the bottom of the Houston Ship Channel.
'Impossible To Save': Scientists Are Watching China's Glaciers Disappear
Xinjiang has nearly 20,000 glaciers, half of China's total. They're all receding at a record pace — and will continue to melt, some scientists warn, even if global temperatures stop rising.