Environmental News

MPR News is your source for environment news from Minnesota and across the country.

Getting to Green: Minnesota’s energy future

Getting to Green is an MPR News series that shares stories about Minnesota’s clean energy transition, including what needs to be done to get there.

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Climate Cast

Listen to Climate Cast, the MPR News podcast all about our changing climate and its impact in Minnesota and worldwide.

New technology uses good old-fashioned wind to power giant cargo vessels
Cargo ships equipped with massive rigid sails called WindWings could save a substantial amount of fuel, considering how much of the world's goods are transported by sea.
6 big purchases that can save energy, money at home
To live a more climate friendly life, invest in home appliances and vehicles that run on electricity, not fossil fuels, say sustainability experts. Here are a few energy-saving solutions to consider.
Some Minnesota libraries offer users chance to check out the great outdoors
Local libraries offer the chance to check out new books, DVDs, video games and more. However, for the past two years, some libraries across Minnesota also offer the chance to explore the outdoors with free state park passes. 
Panda Diplomacy: The departure of DC's beloved pandas may signal a wider Chinese pullback
The National Zoo’s three giant pandas are set to return to China in early December with no public signs that the 50-year old exchange agreement struck by former President Richard Nixon will continue.
Climate solutions are necessary. So NPR will dedicate a week to highlighting them
When people talk about climate change, you often hear hopelessness. But what if we reframe the conversation? Humans are driving global warming; that means humans can find solutions to turn it around.
New EV charging sites in rural Minnesota fill a gap
A new electric vehicle charging station opening soon in Fergus Falls will be one of the largest in the state. It’s part of an effort by Otter Tail Power Company to fill an EV charging gap in rural areas.