A ship has made a winter crossing of the Arctic without an icebreaker for the first time as global warming causes the region's ice sheets to melt. The tanker, containing liquefied natural gas, is the first commercial vessel to make such a crossing alone during the winter months.
Operating rooms have not focused on environmental impacts. But a growing movement among surgical teams is trying to change that.
Hurricane Helene has caused at least 221 deaths from catastrophic flooding, wind and storm surge, making it the deadliest U.S. hurricane since Katrina.
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Why this matters:
As climate change drives more intense hurricanes, communities face increasing risks of catastrophic damage from storm surges, flooding and extreme winds. Stronger, slower-moving storms mean greater threats to lives and property, emphasizing the need for better preparedness and resilience.
North Carolina's decision to roll back climate policies left it vulnerable to Hurricane Helene's devastating impacts, raising concerns over future climate preparedness.
Lucy Dean Stockton and Freddy Brewster report for The Lever.
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Key quote:
"The Republican approach to climate change has been much like an ostrich with its head in the sand."
— Dan Crawford, director of governmental relations, North Carolina League of Conservation Voters
Why this matters:
Neglecting climate change preparations, as seen in North Carolina, heightens the risk of deadly storms, worsening both human and environmental losses. Stronger, proactive policies are critical to mitigate future impacts and protect vulnerable communities.
Despite Hurricane Helene causing catastrophic flooding, most homes in the hardest-hit inland counties lacked flood insurance, leaving residents facing years of financial hardship.
Kevin Crowe, Shannon Osaka, and Molly Hennessy-Fiske report for The Washington Post.
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Key quote:
"Flood risk is under appreciated across the nation — even in flood prone areas."
— Jeff Jackson, interim senior executive, National Flood Insurance Program
Why this matters:
As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of storms, more areas previously considered low risk are experiencing devastating floods. Without better flood insurance policies, families may continue to face financial ruin after such disasters.
Related: Hurricane Helene exposes Southeast's flood insurance gap
As small-scale farmers across Africa reject industrial agriculture and multinational control, many are turning to agroecology to create sustainable, diverse crops without chemicals or expensive fertilizers.
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Key quote:
"It is so important not to lose the argument because then we hand our future to the corporations."
— Edie Mukiibi, president of Slow Food International
Why this matters:
Agroecology offers a sustainable alternative to industrial farming, protecting local food systems from corporate monopolies while helping farmers adapt to climate change and economic pressures. This approach also encourages biodiversity and healthier, self-sufficient communities.
Related EHN coverage:
The Inflation Reduction Act is creating jobs and investment, yet its supporters are not seeing much political gain, particularly in key races like Ohio's Senate contest.
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Key quote:
“The results are very clear. Just the plain old numbers and projects have been utterly transformative.”
— Sam Ricketts, co-founder of S2 Strategies
Why this matters:
The disconnect between the economic gains from the IRA and its political reception highlights challenges in communicating climate policy successes, particularly in regions dependent on traditional energy jobs.
Related coverage:
The economic concept of degrowth, which challenges the traditional pursuit of endless growth, is gaining popularity as younger generations face economic stagnation and environmental damage.
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Key quote:
Degrowth “focuses on what is necessary to fulfill everyone’s basic needs.”
— Kohei Saito, associate professor of philosophy, University of Tokyo
Why this matters:
Degrowth represents a significant shift in thinking about economics and sustainability, especially as the climate crisis worsens. It challenges the assumption that growth is always beneficial, raising questions about how we balance human needs with environmental limits.
Related: Degrowth movement challenges traditional views on economic growth
“Coalitions become this interesting way to create buy-in.”
A plastics treaty for the climate and health must address overproduction of plastics and head off the petrochemical and plastic industry’s planned expansion.
Last year Pennsylvania Department of Health studies showed increased risk of childhood cancer, asthma and low birth weights for people living near fracking. Advocates say not enough has been done since.
“Women, in all of their diversity, must be at the center of climate and energy decision-making.”
The discourse on climate resilience must include affordable housing policy solutions.
“Pennsylvania steel communities have lived with dangerous air quality for generations. That needs to end.”