Explore

New Jersey Lawmakers Debate Future of Flood Regulations Amid Development Concerns

New Jersey Lawmakers Debate Future of Flood Regulations Amid Development Concerns

New Jersey lawmakers are considering changes to flood regulations enacted on the last day of former Governor Phil Murphy's term. The regulations, known as the PACT REAL rules, include increased elevation requirements for new constructions and expanded flood maps. A joint legislative panel heard extensive testimony on a resolution to amend these rules, which some argue are misaligned with legislative intent. The rules have faced opposition from business and development groups concerned about increased construction costs and potential limitations on development. Local officials, including Jersey City's mayor, have expressed concerns about the rules' impact on urban development and affordable housing obligations.

Michigan’s latest dam safety crisis revives calls for reforms, funding

Michigan’s latest dam safety crisis revives calls for reforms, funding

Michigan leaders are vowing action on dam safety reforms after the latest dam failure crisis

Archaeologist Highlights Trash as a Tool for Climate Change Adaptation

Archaeologist Highlights Trash as a Tool for Climate Change Adaptation

Kristina Douglass, an archaeologist and associate professor at Columbia University, emphasizes the importance of studying ancient trash to understand past human adaptation to climate change. Her research, particularly in Madagascar, involves analyzing materials left behind by past societies to gain insights into sustainable living practices. Douglass advocates for incorporating indigenous knowledge into modern climate policies, as these communities have historically adapted to environmental changes. Her work aims to bridge the gap between historical practices and contemporary climate challenges, promoting sustainable solutions informed by past human experiences.

The State Climate Push That Defied Washington

The State Climate Push That Defied Washington

In the wake of the United States' withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in 2017, a coalition of states formed the U.S. Climate Alliance. This biparti...

Late-Season Freeze Concerns New Jersey Gardeners

Late-Season Freeze Concerns New Jersey Gardeners

A late-season overnight freeze is causing concern among gardeners in New Jersey. According to NBC New York, the unexpected drop in temperatures could potentially damage plants that have already begun to bloom. This weather event is unusual for this time of year, as temperatures typically start to rise in the spring. The freeze warning has prompted local gardeners to take precautionary measures to protect their plants from the cold snap. The report highlights the challenges faced by those in the gardening community as they prepare for the sudden change in weather conditions.

Today Marks a Key U.S. Moment in the Paris Agreement

Today Marks a Key U.S. Moment in the Paris Agreement

The Paris Agreement, a landmark international accord aimed at combating climate change, has seen varying levels of commitment from the United State...

American Lung Association Report Reveals High Air Pollution Exposure Among U.S. Children

American Lung Association Report Reveals High Air Pollution Exposure Among U.S. Children

A report from the American Lung Association (ALA) has revealed that nearly half of U.S. children are exposed to dangerous levels of air pollution. The study found that 33.5 million children, or 46% of those under 18, live in areas that received a failing grade for at least one measure of air pollution. Additionally, 7 million children, or 10% of all kids, live in communities that failed all three measures considered in the study: short-term particle pollution, long-term particle pollution, and ozone pollution. The report highlights the disproportionate exposure of communities of color to unhealthy air, leading to higher rates of chronic health conditions.

Global Methane Pledge and Renewable Energy Goals Highlight Climate Progress

Global Methane Pledge and Renewable Energy Goals Highlight Climate Progress

A recent study highlights the progress and challenges in achieving global climate goals, particularly focusing on the Global Methane Pledge and renewable energy targets. The Global Methane Pledge, signed by 159 countries, aims to reduce global methane emissions by 30% from 2020 levels by 2030. Additionally, there is a commitment to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency improvements by 2030. Despite these ambitious goals, the study finds that current policies and pledges are insufficient to meet these targets. The expansion of renewable energy is hindered by factors such as the feasibility of moving away from fossil fuels, capacity constraints, and technology costs. The study emphasizes the need for early interventions and dedicated policies to drive the transition to renewable energy.

FDA Warns New Life Pharma Over Inspection Refusal and Manufacturing Violations

FDA Warns New Life Pharma Over Inspection Refusal and Manufacturing Violations

The FDA has issued a warning letter to New Life Pharma after the company refused inspectors access to parts of its GLP-1 manufacturing facility in New Jersey. The inspection, conducted in February, revealed that New Life was producing semaglutide and tirzepatide vials without proper procedures to prevent microbiological contamination. The FDA found multiple compliance failures with current good manufacturing practices (CGMP) and noted that the company's quality control unit failed to ensure the sterility of drug products. New Life's refusal to allow access to certain facility areas violated FDA inspection rules. The company has since agreed to halt drug production at the facility but indicated plans to resume after addressing sterility issues.

Corpus Christi City Council Considers Water Curtailment Amid Severe Drought

Corpus Christi City Council Considers Water Curtailment Amid Severe Drought

The city of Corpus Christi is facing a potential water emergency due to an ongoing drought that has severely depleted its main reservoirs, Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Reservoir, to just 8% of their capacity. In response, the city council is considering a proposal to mandate a 25% reduction in water use for residents, businesses, and industries. The current plan starts with a 5% reduction during a water emergency, but the severity of the drought is prompting consideration of more drastic measures. The city is preparing for a stage 1 emergency, which could occur by September if there is no significant rainfall and if their allotment from Lake Texana is curtailed. The proposal includes fines for violations and potential water cutoffs for repeat offenders, though this has been met with some opposition from city officials.

Morning Showers Expected in the Tri-State Area

Morning Showers Expected in the Tri-State Area

The Tri-State Area, encompassing New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, is experiencing damp weather conditions this Wednesday morning. According to CBS News New York, showers are prevalent across the region but are expected to diminish as the day progresses. Meteorologist Tony Sadiku provides the forecast, indicating that while the morning will be wet, the weather will improve later in the day. Residents can expect a gradual clearing of skies, leading to drier conditions by the afternoon.

Judge Halts Trump Administration's Policies Hindering Wind and Solar Projects

Judge Halts Trump Administration's Policies Hindering Wind and Solar Projects

A federal judge has blocked a series of Trump administration policies that have impeded the development of wind and solar energy projects. The policies, which required multiple levels of approval from senior political appointees, were challenged by industry groups as unlawful and obstructive. The judge's ruling supports the plaintiffs' claims that these policies violated the Administrative Procedure Act and unfairly disadvantaged renewable energy projects. This decision is part of a broader judicial pushback against the administration's efforts to prioritize fossil fuels over clean energy.