Environment

FILE - Ford's chief executive eEngineer Linda Zhang unveils the Ford F-150 Lightning on May 19, 2021, in Dearborn, Mich. All of Ford Motor Co.'s current and future electric vehicles will have access to about 12,000 Tesla Supercharger stations starting in 2024, according to an announcement Thursday, May 25, 2023, by Ford CEO Jim Farley and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File)

Ford electric vehicle owners to get access to Tesla Supercharger network starting next spring

Tom Krisher, The Associated Press 3 minute read Thursday, May. 25, 2023

DETROIT (AP) — All of Ford Motor Co.'s current and future electric vehicles will have access to about 12,000 Tesla Supercharger stations in the U.S. and Canada starting next spring.

Ford CEO Jim Farley and Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced the agreement Thursday during a “Twitter Spaces” audio chat.

“We think this is a huge move for our industry and for all electric customers,” Farley said.

Musk said he didn't want Tesla's network to be a “walled garden” and that he wants to use it to support sustainable transportation.

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Renewable energy surges, driven by solar boom and high fuel prices, report finds

Frank Jordans, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Renewable energy surges, driven by solar boom and high fuel prices, report finds

Frank Jordans, The Associated Press 3 minute read Updated: 8:37 AM CDT

BERLIN (AP) — The world is set to add a record amount of renewable electricity capacity this year as governments and consumers seek to offset high energy prices and take advantage of a boom in solar power, according to a new report Thursday.

The International Energy Agency said high fossil fuel prices — resulting from Russia's attack on Ukraine — and concerns about energy security had boosted the rollout of solar and wind power installations, which are expected to reach 440 gigawatts in 2023.

That's about a third more than the world added the previous year, taking the global installed capacity to 4,500 GW, roughly the combined total power output of the United States and China, the Paris-based agency said.

“The global energy crisis has shown renewables are critical for making energy supplies not just cleaner but also more secure and affordable," said Fatih Birol, the IEA's executive director.

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Updated: 8:37 AM CDT

The sun reflected in solar panels of the EnBW solar park at Gottesgabe, Germany, Friday, July 1, 2022. The world is set to add a record amount of renewable electricity capacity this year as governments and consumers seek to offset high energy prices and take advantage of a boom in solar power. (Patrick Pleul/dpa via AP)
The sun reflected in solar panels of the EnBW solar park at Gottesgabe, Germany, Friday, July 1, 2022. The world is set to add a record amount of renewable electricity capacity this year as governments and consumers seek to offset high energy prices and take advantage of a boom in solar power. (Patrick Pleul/dpa via AP)

India pauses plans to add new coal plants for five years, bets on renewables, batteries

Sibi Arasu, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

India pauses plans to add new coal plants for five years, bets on renewables, batteries

Sibi Arasu, The Associated Press 3 minute read 6:25 AM CDT

BENGALURU, India (AP) — The Indian government will not consider any proposals for new coal plants for the next five years and focus on growing its renewables sector, according to an updated national electricity plan released Wednesday evening.

The temporary pause in the growth of the dirty fuel was hailed by energy experts as a positive step for a country that is currently reliant on coal for around 75% of its electricity.

Updated every five years, the plan serves as a guideline for India’s priorities in its electricity sector.

India is the world’s third highest emitter and most populous country. It plans to reach net zero emissions by 2070, which would mean significantly slashing coal use and ramping up renewable energy.

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6:25 AM CDT

FILE - Farmer Pravinbhai Parmar cleans a solar panel installed at a farm in Dhundi village of Kheda district in western Indian Gujarat state, India, Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. The Indian government will not consider any proposals for new coal plants for the next five years and focus on growing its renewables sector, according to an updated national electricity plan released Wednesday evening. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki, File)
FILE - Farmer Pravinbhai Parmar cleans a solar panel installed at a farm in Dhundi village of Kheda district in western Indian Gujarat state, India, Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. The Indian government will not consider any proposals for new coal plants for the next five years and focus on growing its renewables sector, according to an updated national electricity plan released Wednesday evening. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki, File)

Toyota debuts hydrogen-fueled Corolla race car as auto racing begins shift away from gas guzzlers

Yuri Kageyama, The Associated Press 5 minute read Preview

Toyota debuts hydrogen-fueled Corolla race car as auto racing begins shift away from gas guzzlers

Yuri Kageyama, The Associated Press 5 minute read 12:30 AM CDT

OYAMA, Japan (AP) — In a sprawling circuit near Mount Fuji, a humble Corolla running on liquid hydrogen has made its racing debut, part of a move to bring the futuristic technology into the racing world and to demonstrate Toyota’s resolve to develop green vehicles.

Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda, resplendent in a fire-resistant racing uniform, was all smiles as he prepared to buzz around the circuit in the hydrogen-fueled Corolla.

“This is a world first for a liquid hydrogen car to race. We hope it will offer another option in the fight against global warming. To bring everyone smiles, I want to go one lap, even one second, more,” said Toyoda, a former CEO of Toyota, grandson of the automaker’s founder and a licensed race driver himself.

The hydrogen Corolla race car won’t be turning up at your dealer anytime soon. The Super Taikyu 24-hour race at Fuji Speedway was just a test for the technology, Toyota officials said.

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12:30 AM CDT

In this photo released by Toyota Motor Corp., Toyota’s Corolla racing car powered by liquid hydrogen runs on the racing course during a 24-hour race at Fuji International Speedway in Oyama town, some 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo, Sunday, May 28, 2023. The hydrogen-fueled Corolla has made its racing debut, part of a move to bring the futuristic technology into the racing world and to demonstrate Toyota’s resolve to develop green vehicles. (Toyota Motor Corp. via AP)
In this photo released by Toyota Motor Corp., Toyota’s Corolla racing car powered by liquid hydrogen runs on the racing course during a 24-hour race at Fuji International Speedway in Oyama town, some 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo, Sunday, May 28, 2023. The hydrogen-fueled Corolla has made its racing debut, part of a move to bring the futuristic technology into the racing world and to demonstrate Toyota’s resolve to develop green vehicles. (Toyota Motor Corp. via AP)

Debt ceiling deal advances pipeline and tweaks environmental rules. But more work remains.

Chris Megerian And Matthew Daly, The Associated Press 7 minute read Preview

Debt ceiling deal advances pipeline and tweaks environmental rules. But more work remains.

Chris Megerian And Matthew Daly, The Associated Press 7 minute read Yesterday at 11:13 PM CDT

WASHINGTON (AP) — Despite weeks of negotiations, the White House and House Republicans were unable to reach a comprehensive agreement to overhaul environmental regulations and streamline federal permitting as part of their debt ceiling deal, instead settling for limited changes that could simplify some project reviews.

The final legislation, approved late Wednesday by the House, includes provisions to speed up infrastructure projects under the landmark National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA. However, it does not clear the way to build large-scale electricity transmission lines, instead ordering a two-year study of the issue.

One project got special treatment: the legislation essentially ensures construction of the long-delayed Mountain Valley Pipeline, a $6.6 billion project to transport natural gas through Appalachia. The White House supported the plan over the objections of environmentalists as a concession to Sen. Joe Manchin, a West Virginia Democrat who was a key vote for last year's sweeping legislation that included deep investments in climate programs.

Asked about the pipeline on Wednesday, President Joe Biden grinned but did not answer.

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Yesterday at 11:13 PM CDT

FILE - Sections of pipe are lined off of Cove Hollow Road in Elliston, in Montgomery County, Va., on Sept. 15, 2020. Despite weeks of negotiations, the White House and House Republicans were unable to reach a comprehensive agreement to overhaul environmental regulations and streamline federal permitting as part of their budget deal. One project got special treatment: the legislation essentially ensures construction of the long-delayed Mountain Valley Pipeline, a $6.6 billion project to transport natural gas through Appalachia. (Heather Rousseau/The Roanoke Times via AP)
FILE - Sections of pipe are lined off of Cove Hollow Road in Elliston, in Montgomery County, Va., on Sept. 15, 2020. Despite weeks of negotiations, the White House and House Republicans were unable to reach a comprehensive agreement to overhaul environmental regulations and streamline federal permitting as part of their budget deal. One project got special treatment: the legislation essentially ensures construction of the long-delayed Mountain Valley Pipeline, a $6.6 billion project to transport natural gas through Appalachia. (Heather Rousseau/The Roanoke Times via AP)

Judge dismisses criminal charges against California energy company in 2020 fatal wildfire

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Judge dismisses criminal charges against California energy company in 2020 fatal wildfire

The Associated Press 3 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 8:37 PM CDT

REDDING, Calif. (AP) — A California judge on Wednesday dismissed all charges against Pacific Gas & Electric in connection to a 2020 fatal wildfire sparked by its equipment that destroyed hundreds of homes and killed four people, including an 8-year-old.

The utility also reached a $50 million settlement agreement with the Shasta County District Attorney's Office, officials from both announced in separate statements.

The wind-whipped blaze began on Sept. 27, 2020, and raged through rugged terrain and small communities west of Redding, killing four people, burning about 200 homes and blackening about 87 square miles (225 square kilometers) of land in Shasta and Tehama counties.

In 2021, state fire investigators concluded the fire was sparked by a gray pine tree that fell onto a PG&E distribution line. Shasta and Tehama counties sued the utility, alleging negligence. They said PG&E failed to remove the tree even though it had been marked for removal two years earlier. The utility says the tree was subsequently cleared to stay.

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Updated: Yesterday at 8:37 PM CDT

FILE - A Pacific Gas & Electric employee sprays water on a burning telephone pole at the Zogg Fire near Ono, Calif., on Sept. 28, 2020. A Northern California judge on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, dismissed all charges against Pacific Gas & Electric for its role in the 2020 fatal wildfire sparked by its equipment that destroyed hundreds of homes and killed four people, including an 8-year-old child. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File)
FILE - A Pacific Gas & Electric employee sprays water on a burning telephone pole at the Zogg Fire near Ono, Calif., on Sept. 28, 2020. A Northern California judge on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, dismissed all charges against Pacific Gas & Electric for its role in the 2020 fatal wildfire sparked by its equipment that destroyed hundreds of homes and killed four people, including an 8-year-old child. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File)

Man pleads guilty to picking up Yellowstone bison calf that was rejected by herd, euthanized

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Man pleads guilty to picking up Yellowstone bison calf that was rejected by herd, euthanized

The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 6:01 PM CDT

MAMMOTH, Wyo. (AP) — A man from Hawaii pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge alleging he picked up a bison calf in Yellowstone National Park, causing the animal's herd to reject it and leading park officials to kill it rather than allow it to be a hazard to visitors.

A federal magistrate judge ordered the man to pay a $500 fine and make a $500 payment to the Yellowstone Forever Wildlife Protection Fund for the charge of intentionally disturbing wildlife, the U.S. Attorney's Office in Wyoming said.

Prosecutors said the man approached a struggling newborn bison calf, which had been separated from its mother when the herd crossed the Lamar River on May 20. He pushed the calf up from the river and onto the nearby roadway.

Human interference with young wildlife can cause animals to shun their offspring. Park rangers tried repeatedly to reunite the calf with the herd but were unsuccessful. The calf was killed by park staff because it was approaching people and cars on the road.

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Yesterday at 6:01 PM CDT

MAMMOTH, Wyo. (AP) — A man from Hawaii pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge alleging he picked up a bison calf in Yellowstone National Park, causing the animal's herd to reject it and leading park officials to kill it rather than allow it to be a hazard to visitors.

A federal magistrate judge ordered the man to pay a $500 fine and make a $500 payment to the Yellowstone Forever Wildlife Protection Fund for the charge of intentionally disturbing wildlife, the U.S. Attorney's Office in Wyoming said.

Prosecutors said the man approached a struggling newborn bison calf, which had been separated from its mother when the herd crossed the Lamar River on May 20. He pushed the calf up from the river and onto the nearby roadway.

Human interference with young wildlife can cause animals to shun their offspring. Park rangers tried repeatedly to reunite the calf with the herd but were unsuccessful. The calf was killed by park staff because it was approaching people and cars on the road.

Born in a typhoon: Many, including newborns, remain without electricity as Guam recovers from storm

Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Born in a typhoon: Many, including newborns, remain without electricity as Guam recovers from storm

Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, The Associated Press 4 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 7:58 PM CDT

HONOLULU (AP) — About a week after Typhoon Mawar tore through Guam as the strongest typhoon to hit the U.S. Pacific territory in over two decades, most of the island remained without electricity and the governor appealed for patience during a recovery process expected to take at least a month.

Even though Mawar caused no deaths or catastrophic destruction, officials said that as of Wednesday only 28% of power had been restored on the oppressively hot and humid island. About 44% of cell towers were functional Wednesday, and about half the water system was operational, Bob Fenton, regional administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency told The Associated Press via phone from Guam.

Mawar briefly made landfall as a Category 4 storm late on May 24 on the northern tip of the island of roughly 150,000 people, flipping cars, tearing off roofs and leaving trees bare.

There have been long lines for gas and officials estimate it will be four to six weeks before power is fully restored. FEMA did not yet know exactly how many homes were destroyed. High school graduations were indefinitely postponed across Guam.

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Updated: Yesterday at 7:58 PM CDT

A newborn lies in a hospital bassinet in Tamuning, Guam on May 25, 2023. Many, including newborns, remain without electricity as Guam recovers from Typhoon Mawar. (Gyuri Kim via AP)
A newborn lies in a hospital bassinet in Tamuning, Guam on May 25, 2023. Many, including newborns, remain without electricity as Guam recovers from Typhoon Mawar. (Gyuri Kim via AP)

N.B. out of control wildfire manageable: officials

The Canadian Press 1 minute read Preview

N.B. out of control wildfire manageable: officials

The Canadian Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 5:17 PM CDT

SAINT ANDREWS, N.B. - Officials say a wildfire in the south of New Brunswick is still considered out of control, but it is manageable.

Roger Collet, wildfire management officer with the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources, says the fire in the Bocabec and Chamcook areas near Saint Andrews, N.B., is still smouldering, but there is little fuel left to burn.

Calmer weather has helped limit the spread of the blaze, which was started Sunday by an all-terrain vehicle.

Collet says officials are keeping an eye on up to 400 hot spots over nearly five-and-a-half square kilometres of scorched land.

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Yesterday at 5:17 PM CDT

An active wildfire in the south of New Brunswick although listed as out of control, officials say is manageable. Forest fires rage in the area of Bocabec, N.B., in a Sunday, May 28, 2023 handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Scott Legge **MANDATORY CREDIT**
An active wildfire in the south of New Brunswick although listed as out of control, officials say is manageable. Forest fires rage in the area of Bocabec, N.B., in a Sunday, May 28, 2023 handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Scott Legge **MANDATORY CREDIT**

California lawmakers advance bill to cool down outside areas at schools

Sophie Austin, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

California lawmakers advance bill to cool down outside areas at schools

Sophie Austin, The Associated Press 4 minute read Yesterday at 5:03 PM CDT

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — As California grapples with how to deal with heat waves made more intense by climate change, schools in the state may soon have to come up with plans for cooling down outside play areas by planting more trees and replacing surfaces like asphalt that swelter on hot days.

The state Senate passed the legislation that would require public and charter schools and districts to strategize on how to introduce more shade on campus, plant gardens and replace surfaces that hold on to a lot of heat with alternatives such as grass and wood chips. They have a 2027 deadline to start implementing their plans.

“We needed this a long time ago,” said state Sen. Caroline Menjivar, a Democrat representing the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles County. “We are making up for the decades of delay that we're in right now.”

Only a handful of state senators voted against the bill. It would still need approval in the state Assembly.

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Yesterday at 5:03 PM CDT

FILE - A group of students walk back to their classroom after finishing their afternoon snack at Kingsley Elementary School Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015, in Los Angeles. As California grapples with how to deal with heat waves made more intense by climate change, schools in the state may soon have to come up with a plan for cooling down outside areas by planting more trees and replacing surfaces like asphalt that swelter on hot days. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)
FILE - A group of students walk back to their classroom after finishing their afternoon snack at Kingsley Elementary School Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015, in Los Angeles. As California grapples with how to deal with heat waves made more intense by climate change, schools in the state may soon have to come up with a plan for cooling down outside areas by planting more trees and replacing surfaces like asphalt that swelter on hot days. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season is now underway. Here’s what to know.

Freida Frisaro, The Associated Press 5 minute read Preview

The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season is now underway. Here’s what to know.

Freida Frisaro, The Associated Press 5 minute read Updated: 8:53 AM CDT

MIAMI (AP) — It's time for residents along the southeastern U.S. coastlines to make sure their storm plans are in place as the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season gets underway on Thursday.

Forecasters are predicting a “near-normal” season, but Mike Brennan, the new director at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, stressed during a Wednesday news conference that there's really nothing normal when it comes to hurricanes.

“A normal season might sound good in comparison to some of the hurricane seasons in the past few years," he said. “But there's nothing good about a near-normal hurricane season in terms of activity.”

WILL THE 2023 ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON BE BUSY?

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Updated: 8:53 AM CDT

Mike Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center, speaks during a news conference, Wednesday, May 31, 2023, in Miami. Brennan and FEMA Director Deanne Criswell discussed preparedness for hurricane season, which begins June 1. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)
Mike Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center, speaks during a news conference, Wednesday, May 31, 2023, in Miami. Brennan and FEMA Director Deanne Criswell discussed preparedness for hurricane season, which begins June 1. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

Sambaa K'e, N.W.T, evacuated due to wildfire

The Canadian Press 1 minute read Preview

Sambaa K'e, N.W.T, evacuated due to wildfire

The Canadian Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 2:43 PM CDT

SAMBAA K'E, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES - The Northwest Territories government says a community near the Alberta boundary is under an evacuation order due to a nearby wildfire.

N.W.T. fire says the 980-square-kilometre fire is now about 30 kilometres from Sambaa K'e, previously known as Trout Lake.

About 97 people live in the community in the territory's Dehcho region.

An evacuation centre is being set up in Fort Simpson.

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Yesterday at 2:43 PM CDT

Firefighters pose on one of the bulldozer control lines fighting a wildfire in the Northwest Territories in a recent handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Government of Northwest Territories **MANDATORY CREDIT**
Firefighters pose on one of the bulldozer control lines fighting a wildfire in the Northwest Territories in a recent handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Government of Northwest Territories **MANDATORY CREDIT**

Coal firms owned by family of West Virginia governor sued over unpaid penalties

John Raby And Denise Lavoie, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Coal firms owned by family of West Virginia governor sued over unpaid penalties

John Raby And Denise Lavoie, The Associated Press 3 minute read Yesterday at 1:22 PM CDT

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Thirteen coal companies owned by the family of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice are being sued over unpaid penalties for previous mining law violations that the federal government says pose health and safety risks or threaten environmental harm.

Justice, who was not named in the lawsuit, accused the Biden administration of retaliation. A Republican two-term governor, Justice announced in April that he is running for Democrat Joe Manchin’s U.S. Senate seat in 2024.

The lawsuit filed Tuesday says that over the past five years, the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement cited the companies for more than 130 violations and issued more than 500 cessation orders. The lawsuit says the total amount of penalties, fees, interest and administrative expenses owed by the defendants is about $7.6 million.

U.S. Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia said the defendants were ordered more than 50 times to stop mining activities until the violations were corrected.

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Yesterday at 1:22 PM CDT

FILE - West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice delivers his annual State of the State address in the House Chambers at the West Virginia Capitol, Jan. 11, 2023, in Charleston, W.Va. The federal government filed a lawsuit on Tuesday, May 30, against coal mines owned by the family of Justice seeking payment of unpaid penalties for previous mining law violations. (AP Photo/Chris Jackson, File)
FILE - West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice delivers his annual State of the State address in the House Chambers at the West Virginia Capitol, Jan. 11, 2023, in Charleston, W.Va. The federal government filed a lawsuit on Tuesday, May 30, against coal mines owned by the family of Justice seeking payment of unpaid penalties for previous mining law violations. (AP Photo/Chris Jackson, File)

3 activists arrested after their fund bailed out protestors of Atlanta’s ‘Cop City’

Jeff Amy And Kate Brumback, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

3 activists arrested after their fund bailed out protestors of Atlanta’s ‘Cop City’

Jeff Amy And Kate Brumback, The Associated Press 4 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 7:27 PM CDT

ATLANTA (AP) — Police on Wednesday arrested three Atlanta organizers who have been aiding protesters against the city's proposed police and fire training center, striking at the structure that supports the fight against what opponents derisively call “Cop City.”

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced its agents and Atlanta police had arrested three leaders of the Atlanta Solidarity Fund, which has bailed out protesters and helped them find lawyers.

Charged with money laundering and charity fraud are Marlon Scott Kautz, 39, of Atlanta; Savannah D. Patterson, 30, of Savannah; and Adele MacLean, 42, of Atlanta.

State investigators said they found evidence linking all three to financial crimes. Police executed warrants Wednesday morning at a house owned by Kautz and MacLean that is emblazoned with anti-police graffiti in an otherwise gentrified neighborhood east of downtown Atlanta.

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Updated: Yesterday at 7:27 PM CDT

Bulldozers and heavy trucks are seen cleaning the ground of the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center site on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Atlanta’s proposed police and fire training center will cost taxpayers more than double the previous estimate by Mayor Andre Dickens’ administration. (Miguel Martinez/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)
Bulldozers and heavy trucks are seen cleaning the ground of the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center site on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Atlanta’s proposed police and fire training center will cost taxpayers more than double the previous estimate by Mayor Andre Dickens’ administration. (Miguel Martinez/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)

Triple-whammy of cyclones, a 1-in-200-year event, drove Italy’s deadly flooding, scientists say

Frances D'emilio And Seth Borenstein, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Triple-whammy of cyclones, a 1-in-200-year event, drove Italy’s deadly flooding, scientists say

Frances D'emilio And Seth Borenstein, The Associated Press 4 minute read Yesterday at 11:41 AM CDT

ROME (AP) — A rare, triple-whammy of cyclones drove the deadly flooding that devastated much of northern Italy this month, but scientists said Wednesday that climate change doesn't seem to be to blame for the intense rainfall.

Using computer simulations and past observations, a team of researchers looked for but found no evidence of human-caused warming behind the drenching. World Weather Attribution compared what happened to a computer simulated world of no human-caused warming and didn't see the fingerprints of fossil-fuel-induced climate change, unlike in many past studies.

Still, precisely because having three exceptionally heavy downpours in such a short timeframe is so rare — the study estimated there was a 1-in-200 probability that three cyclones would strike within a three-week period — the climate experts cautioned that more time for study is needed.

“This is not the end of the story,'' said study co-author Davide Faranda, a researcher in climate physics at the Pierre-Simon Laplace Institute in France. "This event is too rare,'' he said during a panel to present the findings.

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Yesterday at 11:41 AM CDT

FILE - People are rescued in Faenza, Italy, on May 18, 2023. A rare, triple-whammy of cyclones drove the deadly flooding that devastated much of northern Italy this month, but scientists said Wednesday May 31, 2023 that climate change doesn't seem to be to blame for the intense rainfall. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno, File)
FILE - People are rescued in Faenza, Italy, on May 18, 2023. A rare, triple-whammy of cyclones drove the deadly flooding that devastated much of northern Italy this month, but scientists said Wednesday May 31, 2023 that climate change doesn't seem to be to blame for the intense rainfall. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno, File)

Officials warn of poor air from N.S. fires

Keith Doucette, The Canadian Press 3 minute read Preview

Officials warn of poor air from N.S. fires

Keith Doucette, The Canadian Press 3 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 4:11 PM CDT

HALIFAX - People living near raging wildfires in Nova Scotia are being advised not to spend too much time outdoors because of the health risks caused by smoke in the air.

Since Tuesday, Environment Canada has issued a series of special air quality statements warning of a reduction in air quality in areas around Halifax and in Shelburne County, where the largest fire is burning.

Dr. Meredith Chiasson, a respirologist at the Halifax Infirmary, said in an interview Wednesday that drifting smoke poses problems for specific people, including those with heart and lung problems and those who deal with chronic health issues such as asthma.

Chiasson said pregnant women, older adults and children are also a concern in such conditions.

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Updated: Yesterday at 4:11 PM CDT

As wildfires continue to rage in Nova Scotia officials are cautioning people to be aware of the risks caused by smoke in the air. Ambulances are seen at the Dartmouth General Hospital in Dartmouth, N.S. on July 4, 2013. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan
As wildfires continue to rage in Nova Scotia officials are cautioning people to be aware of the risks caused by smoke in the air. Ambulances are seen at the Dartmouth General Hospital in Dartmouth, N.S. on July 4, 2013. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan

Equinor postponing Bay du Nord oil project in N.L.

Sarah Smellie, The Canadian Press 4 minute read Preview

Equinor postponing Bay du Nord oil project in N.L.

Sarah Smellie, The Canadian Press 4 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 2:49 PM CDT

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - The premier of Newfoundland and Labrador played it cool Wednesday as Norwegian energy giant Equinor announced it was suspending plans to develop a $16-billion oil project in the province's offshore.

Andrew Furey said the news that Equinor would postpone the Bay du Nord project for up to three years came as a surprise. But he said he remains confident the oilfield would still be developed.

"Of course we're disappointed in the delay, but I would caution everybody that it's just that: it's a delay," he told reporters, adding that Equinor has not given any indication it was interested in walking away from the development.

"The resource is still there. It's not going anywhere," Furey said.

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Updated: Yesterday at 2:49 PM CDT

Eldar Saetre, CEO of Equinor, speaking as he gives the company quarterly capital market update in London, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020. Equinor is pausing its plans to develop the Bay du Nord oil project, which would open a fifth oilfield off the coast of Newfoundland.THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Alastair Grant
Eldar Saetre, CEO of Equinor, speaking as he gives the company quarterly capital market update in London, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020. Equinor is pausing its plans to develop the Bay du Nord oil project, which would open a fifth oilfield off the coast of Newfoundland.THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Alastair Grant

Earth is ‘really quite sick now’ and in danger zone in nearly all ecological ways, study says

Seth Borenstein, The Associated Press 5 minute read Preview

Earth is ‘really quite sick now’ and in danger zone in nearly all ecological ways, study says

Seth Borenstein, The Associated Press 5 minute read Yesterday at 10:07 AM CDT

Earth has pushed past seven out of eight scientifically established safety limits and into “the danger zone,” not just for an overheating planet that's losing its natural areas, but for well-being of people living on it, according to a new study.

The study looks not just at guardrails for the planetary ecosystem but for the first time it includes measures of “justice,” which is mostly about preventing harm for countries, ethnicities and genders.

The study by the international scientist group Earth Commission published in Wednesday’s journal Nature looks at climate, air pollution, phosphorus and nitrogen contamination of water from fertilizer overuse, groundwater supplies, fresh surface water, the unbuilt natural environment and the overall natural and human-built environment. Only air pollution wasn’t quite at the danger point globally.

Air pollution is dangerous at local and regional levels, while climate was beyond the harmful levels for humans in groups but not quite past the safety guideline for the planet as a system, the study from the Swedish group said.

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Yesterday at 10:07 AM CDT

FILE - A Samburu man stands near a donkey carcass as he patrols to protect livestock from theft in Samburu County, Kenya, on Oct. 15, 2022. . A new study says Earth has pushed past seven out of eight scientifically established safety limits and into “the danger zone,” not just for an overheating planet that’s losing its natural areas, but for well-being of people living on it. The study, published Wednesday, May 31, 2023, for the first time it includes measures of “justice,” which is mostly about preventing harm for groups of people. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
FILE - A Samburu man stands near a donkey carcass as he patrols to protect livestock from theft in Samburu County, Kenya, on Oct. 15, 2022. . A new study says Earth has pushed past seven out of eight scientifically established safety limits and into “the danger zone,” not just for an overheating planet that’s losing its natural areas, but for well-being of people living on it. The study, published Wednesday, May 31, 2023, for the first time it includes measures of “justice,” which is mostly about preventing harm for groups of people. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)

Facing sweltering summers, California’s Newsom floats plan for state to buy energy

Adam Beam, The Associated Press 6 minute read Preview

Facing sweltering summers, California’s Newsom floats plan for state to buy energy

Adam Beam, The Associated Press 6 minute read Yesterday at 8:06 AM CDT

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — For most of the year, California's quest to rid itself of fossil fuels seems on track: Electric cars populate highways while energy from wind, solar and water provides much of the power for homes and businesses.

Then it gets hot, and everyone in the nation's most populous state turns on their air conditioners at the same time. That's when California has come close to running out of power in recent years, especially in the early evenings when electricity from solar is not as abundant.

Now, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to buy massive amounts of renewable energy to help keep the lights on. The idea is to use the state's purchasing power to convince private companies to build largescale power plants that run off of heat from underground sites and strong winds blowing off the coast — the kinds of power that utility companies have not been buying because it's too expensive and would take too long to build.

“We laid out the markers on solar and wind, but we recognize that’s not going to get us where we need to go,” Newsom said during a news conference last week. “The issue of reliability has to be addressed.”

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Yesterday at 8:06 AM CDT

FILE – California Gov. Gavin Newsom talks with union electricians at Proxima Solar Farm outside Patterson, Calif., on May 19, 2023. California has struggled to meet growing demand for electricity as the state transitions away from fossil fuels. Gov. Newsom has proposed the purchasing power of the state to purchase large amounts of new renewable energy, including from offshore wind and geothermal power plants. (Andy Alfaro/The Modesto Bee via AP, File)
FILE – California Gov. Gavin Newsom talks with union electricians at Proxima Solar Farm outside Patterson, Calif., on May 19, 2023. California has struggled to meet growing demand for electricity as the state transitions away from fossil fuels. Gov. Newsom has proposed the purchasing power of the state to purchase large amounts of new renewable energy, including from offshore wind and geothermal power plants. (Andy Alfaro/The Modesto Bee via AP, File)

Japan’s southern Okinawa Islands prepare as tropical storm approaches

Johnson Lai And Hiroyuki Komae, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Japan’s southern Okinawa Islands prepare as tropical storm approaches

Johnson Lai And Hiroyuki Komae, The Associated Press 3 minute read Updated: 12:01 AM CDT

NAHA, Japan (AP) — A weakened Tropical Storm Mawar headed toward Japan's southern archipelago of Okinawa on Thursday, leading businesses and the airport to close and fishermen to batten down their boats in preparation.

Many residents in the prefectural capital of Naha on the main Okinawan island, where about 20,000 U.S. forces are based, appeared unworried even as they took precautions.

Mawar, formerly a typhoon but now packing winds of up to 108 kilometers (66 miles) per hour, was around Miyako, one of Okinawa’s remote islands, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. The storm could approach Okinawa’s main island on Friday and bring powerful rainstorms to the region, it said.

A 76-year-old fisherman, Tatsunori Yamashiro, said he wasn't too worried by the weakening storm.

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Updated: 12:01 AM CDT

School children walk past plants covered with a net placed in preparation for Typhoon Mawar in Naha, southern Japan, Wednesday, May 31, 2023, as it was moving towards the Okinawa islands. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae)
School children walk past plants covered with a net placed in preparation for Typhoon Mawar in Naha, southern Japan, Wednesday, May 31, 2023, as it was moving towards the Okinawa islands. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae)

Corporate Amazon workers protest company’s climate impact and return-to-office mandate in walkout

Ed Komenda, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Corporate Amazon workers protest company’s climate impact and return-to-office mandate in walkout

Ed Komenda, The Associated Press 4 minute read Updated: Yesterday at 7:25 PM CDT

SEATTLE (AP) — Telling executives to “strive harder,” hundreds of corporate Amazon workers protested what they decried as the company's lack of progress on climate goals and an inequitable return-to-office mandate during a lunchtime demonstration at its Seattle headquarters Wednesday.

The protest came a week after Amazon's annual shareholder meeting and a month after a policy took effect returning workers to the office three days per week. Previously, team leaders were allowed to determine how their charges worked.

The employees chanted their disappointment with the pace of the company's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint — "Emissions climbing, time to act” — and urged Amazon to return authority to team leaders when it comes to work location.

Wearing a black pirate hat and red coat, Church Hindley, a quality assurance engineer, said working from home allowed him to live a better, healthier life.

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Updated: Yesterday at 7:25 PM CDT

FILE - The exterior of the Amazon headquarters is shown in Seattle Friday, March 20, 2020. A group of Amazon workers upset about recent layoffs, a return-to-office mandate and the company's environmental impact is planning a walkout at its Seattle headquarters Wednesday. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File)
FILE - The exterior of the Amazon headquarters is shown in Seattle Friday, March 20, 2020. A group of Amazon workers upset about recent layoffs, a return-to-office mandate and the company's environmental impact is planning a walkout at its Seattle headquarters Wednesday. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File)

Hawaii reopens popular stretch of Waikiki beach after endangered monk seal pup weans

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Hawaii reopens popular stretch of Waikiki beach after endangered monk seal pup weans

The Associated Press 2 minute read Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

HONOLULU (AP) — A young Hawaiian monk seal has weaned and relocated, allowing a stretch of a popular Hawaii beach to reopen Tuesday after it was made off-limits to protect the endangered pup while it nursed.

Hawaii officials last month cordoned off a large stretch of a popular Waikiki neighborhood beach to protect the seal mother, named Kaiwi, and her days-old pup, named Pualani. State conservation and and resources enforcement officers kept around-the-clock watch.

The birth of an endangered seal at one of Hawaii’s most popular tourism hubs highlighted the tension between protecting the islands’ fragile ecosystems and maintaining access to the pristine white-sand beaches that attract millions of visitors each year.

Kaimana Beach is next to a mid-sized hotel and is a favorite swimming and sunbathing spot for locals and visitors. Starting six years ago, monk seals have occasionally given birth there, setting the stage for conflict between seal mothers and beachgoers.

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Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

FILE - People sit behind a fenced off area of Kaimana Beach where a Hawaiian monk seal gave birth this week in Honolulu, Thursday, April 20, 2023. A young Hawaiian monk seal has weaned and relocated, allowing a stretch of a popular Hawaii beach to reopen Tuesday, May 30, after it was made off-limits to protect the endangered pup while it nursed. (AP Photo/Audrey McAvoy, File)
FILE - People sit behind a fenced off area of Kaimana Beach where a Hawaiian monk seal gave birth this week in Honolulu, Thursday, April 20, 2023. A young Hawaiian monk seal has weaned and relocated, allowing a stretch of a popular Hawaii beach to reopen Tuesday, May 30, after it was made off-limits to protect the endangered pup while it nursed. (AP Photo/Audrey McAvoy, File)

B.C. gives $25 million more for marine restoration

The Canadian Press 2 minute read Preview

B.C. gives $25 million more for marine restoration

The Canadian Press 2 minute read Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

PARKSVILLE, B.C. - British Columbia's Environment Ministry has announced another $25 million in funding for coastal cleanup and restoration of the marine environment.

This brings its total investment for the Clean Coast, Clean Waters Initiative Fund to about $50 million.

Environment Minister George Heyman told a news conference Tuesday that debris from more than 4,600 kilometres of shoreline has been removed so far, while creating more than 1,700 jobs.

He says the new funding will allow the initiatives to continue to protect the coast and the communities that live there.

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Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

British Columbia's Environment Ministry has announced it is giving another $25 million in funding to clean up and restore B.C.'s marine environment. Environment Minister George Heyman speaks during an announcement at Burns Bog, in Delta, B.C., on Monday, June 29, 2020.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
British Columbia's Environment Ministry has announced it is giving another $25 million in funding to clean up and restore B.C.'s marine environment. Environment Minister George Heyman speaks during an announcement at Burns Bog, in Delta, B.C., on Monday, June 29, 2020.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

New Brunswick wildfire evacuees can return home

The Canadian Press 2 minute read Preview

New Brunswick wildfire evacuees can return home

The Canadian Press 2 minute read Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

SAINT ANDREWS, N.B. - New Brunswick residents who were forced to leave their homes in the south of the province this week because of a raging wildfire are being told it's safe to return.

Saint Andrews, N.B., Mayor Brad Henderson said residents in the Bocabec and Chamcook areas of the municipality can either return home or, if they prefer, spend another night in a temporary shelter set up in Saint Andrews.

Roadblocks put up on the main route out of Saint Andrews will be taken down, he told a news conference Tuesday.

"Although the firefighters are definitely feeling confident about the distance between structures, it is still an active fire,” he said. “You still have to be aware of your surroundings.”

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Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

Forest fires rage in the area of Bocabec, N.B., in a Sunday, May 28, 2023, handout photo. Residents of southern New Brunswick can return to their homes after they were evacuated following a raging wildfire that threatened to pummel their properties. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Scott Legge **MANDATORY CREDIT**
Forest fires rage in the area of Bocabec, N.B., in a Sunday, May 28, 2023, handout photo. Residents of southern New Brunswick can return to their homes after they were evacuated following a raging wildfire that threatened to pummel their properties. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Scott Legge **MANDATORY CREDIT**

Body of avalanche victim in Washington state recovered after being spotted by volunteer

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Body of avalanche victim in Washington state recovered after being spotted by volunteer

The Associated Press 2 minute read Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

LEAVENWORTH, Wash. (AP) — Search crews have recovered the body of a climber who was one of three killed in an avalanche on Washington's Colchuck Peak in February.

A search-and-rescue volunteer was on a personal trip to the mountain Monday when he saw the remains of 60-year-old Jeannie Lee, of Bayside, New York, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office said.

The volunteer climbed to the top of Colchuck Glacier and called dispatchers, who sent a helicopter and two other volunteers to assist in the recovery.

Lee and two other climbers were killed Feb. 19 as they ascended a steep, snow-packed gulley on the 8,705-foot (2,653-meter) Colchuck Peak, about 70 miles (115 kilometers) east of Seattle, amid risky avalanche conditions. Another member of their party was caught up in the slide, but had minor injuries and was able to hike back down.

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Tuesday, May. 30, 2023

LEAVENWORTH, Wash. (AP) — Search crews have recovered the body of a climber who was one of three killed in an avalanche on Washington's Colchuck Peak in February.

A search-and-rescue volunteer was on a personal trip to the mountain Monday when he saw the remains of 60-year-old Jeannie Lee, of Bayside, New York, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office said.

The volunteer climbed to the top of Colchuck Glacier and called dispatchers, who sent a helicopter and two other volunteers to assist in the recovery.

Lee and two other climbers were killed Feb. 19 as they ascended a steep, snow-packed gulley on the 8,705-foot (2,653-meter) Colchuck Peak, about 70 miles (115 kilometers) east of Seattle, amid risky avalanche conditions. Another member of their party was caught up in the slide, but had minor injuries and was able to hike back down.

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