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.

Tax credits soon disappearing for home energy upgrades
Some people are rushing to put up solar panels before a federal tax break expires. MPR News guest host Catharine Richert talks about how to use the tax credits for home energy improvements, including solar, insulation and heat pumps.
Minnesota greenlights green energy generation and storage project in Faribault county
Minnesota is taking another step toward carbon-free energy production as the state’s Public Utilities Commission has approved a permit for the Northern Crescent Solar and Storage project by Primergy Solar in Faribault County.
Niron breaks ground on Sartell plant to produce magnets without rare earth elements
It’s the first manufacturing plant in the world to produce high-powered magnets without the use of rare earth materials. Niron officials say the plant will help reduce U.S. reliance on materials imported from China.
St. Paul opens the taps at new water treatment facility
St. Paul Regional Water Services opened a new treatment plant this week. The $250 million new facility replaces century-old infrastructure, and officials say it will now be easier to maintain.
The once famous, trailblazing Minnesota nature writer you’ve probably never heard of
Helen Hoover was a Chicago scientist who moved to a remote cabin on the Gunflint Trail in the 1950s. She wrote several popular books about her experiences and the wildlife she observed. But her fame led her to move away and she largely faded from memory. 
Scientists look for cause of spike in swimmer’s itch plaguing Minnesota lakes
The itchy red rash is caused by tiny parasites in the water that can burrow into human skin. Researchers are looking at whether certain waterfowl, invasive species or warming lakes could be factors.
On a northern Minnesota island, arts and inspiration find safe harbor
A small island on Rainy Lake near the Canadian border was once home to a legendary Minnesota environmentalist. Now it’s a place for introspection and inspiration for artists and nature lovers.
Fat Bear Week is here early, and the bears are fat and playful
The famous bears of Alaska's Katmai National Park are enjoying an abundance of salmon, and even some playtime, as they pack on pounds to prepare for the winter.