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This is how far behind the world is on controlling planet-warming pollution
WASHINGTON (NPR) — The hottest year on record is coming to a close, emissions of planet-warming gases are still rising globally, and the most ambitious climate goal on pollution set… Read More
It’s unlikely, but not impossible, to limit global warming to 1.5 Celsius, study finds
WASHINGTON (NPR) — It is unlikely, but not impossible, for humans to hit the lower temperature target for global warming set by the landmark 2015 Paris agreement, according to new… Read More
Here’s how Americans feel about climate change
WASHINGTON (NPR) — Most Americans say that climate change is harming people in the United States, and that climate impacts will get worse over their lifetime, according to a new… Read More
Last month was the hottest June ever recorded on Earth
WASHINGTON (NPR) — Last month was the hottest June on record going back 174 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It’s the latest temperature record to fall… Read More
El Niño has officially begun. Here’s what that means for the U.S.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPR) — El Niño is officially here, and that means things are about to get even hotter. The natural climate phenomenon is marked by warmer ocean temperatures in… Read More
Cut emissions quickly to save lives, scientists warn in a new U.N. report
WASHINGTON (NPR) — The planet is on track for catastrophic warming, but world leaders already have many options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect people, according to a major… Read More
Climate change is making the weather more severe. Why don’t most forecasts mention it?
WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPR) — At global climate talks that just wrapped up, one of the few areas of agreement was about the worldwide toll of climate-driven weather disasters. Leaders from… Read More
EPA Moves To Cut A Group Of Powerful Greenhouse Gases
The EPA plans to phase out hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, which are used in refrigerators and air conditioners. When HFCs are released into the atmosphere, they are extremely good at trapping heat.
Living In Harm’s Way: Why Most Flood Risk Is Not Disclosed
About 15 million properties in the U.S. are prone to flooding, but patchwork and ineffective disclosure laws mean most people get little to no information about flood risk before they move.
Inspector General Slams FEMA Over Repeatedly Flooded Homes
At least 37,000 homes in the U.S. have flooded multiple times. The people who own them are eligible for federal help, but a new report finds that FEMA often fails to provide that assistance.
U.S. Formally Begins To Leave The Paris Climate Agreement
Under the agreement hammered out in 2015, the first day that countries can reverse the promises they made is Nov. 4, 2019. It will be another year before the American withdrawal is official.
U.N. Climate Summit Sets Stage For New National Emissions Promises
Humanity is not on track to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change. Delegations from nearly 200 countries are meeting to discuss promises they made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Small Towns Fear They Are Unprepared For Future Climate-Driven Flooding
The central U.S. just experienced the most widespread river flooding ever recorded there. Flood defenses in major cities largely performed well, but many smaller communities were simply overwhelmed.
You May Be Stressing Out Your Dog
When people who own dogs are stressed, their dogs also get stressed, a new study suggests. It’s another indication of how emotionally synchronized dogs and their humans can be.
EPA Science Panel Considering Guidelines That Upend Basic Air Pollution Science
Some panel members said they don’t agree that breathing sooty air can cause premature death. The panel’s draft recommendations to the EPA would change how it assesses the dangers of air pollution.
High Stakes As International Climate Conference Begins
The U.N. climate meeting underway in Poland is the most important climate conference since the 2015 Paris Agreement set emissions reduction goals for nearly every country on Earth.
How Did Birds Lose Their Teeth And Get Their Beaks? Study Offers Clues
Modern birds are dinosaurs without toothy jaws, and with bigger brains. Newly published research fills in some of the missing links in their evolution.
Mother Bears Are Staying With Their Cubs Longer, Study Finds
In many parts of the world, it is illegal to shoot a brown bear with cubs. The restrictions have made mother bears more likely to spend an extra year with their cubs.