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

Minnesota isn't alone: Air quality plummets across Midwest due to wildfires
Along with Minnesota, Chicago saw its air quality plummet, while other cities including Detroit, Milwaukee and Pittsburgh were experiencing unhealthy air quality levels.
Smoke from Canada's wildfires darkens Europe's skies
A plume of smoke and soot stretches for thousands of miles from the province of Quebec province across the Atlantic Ocean, as seen in satellite images from NASA.
Minnesota sets record for most air quality alerts in a season
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued a record 23rd air quality alert of the year Tuesday morning, as yet another round of smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts across southern and eastern parts of the state.
Wildfire smoke in Minnesota: How to best protect your health and your home
Wildfire smoke is becoming a recurring seasonal hazard across Minnesota and beyond, with air quality alerts increasingly common. Here’s what to know as smoky skies become less of an exception and more of a seasonal pattern.
Researchers use AI to help save a woodpecker species in decline
Minnesota researchers are using small audio recording devices to better understand the range and population of red-headed woodpeckers. The bird has seen a precipitous population decline over several decades. Scientists want to learn where the bird is doing well, so important habitats can be preserved.
State funding brings planned National Loon Center closer to construction
The three-story, 15,000 square foot building in Crosslake in Crow Wing County will aim to immerse visitors in the life of Minnesota's state bird. The National Loon Center hopes to begin construction in spring 2024 and open the facility a year later.