Environment

A state judge has approved Gov. Tim Walz’s proposed “clean car” rules, giving a boost to the plan designed to increase the number of electric vehicles available to Minnesotans and, in the process, reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions. But they’re opposed by Republican legislative leaders, who have proposed a two-year moratorium.

The surge in demand for electric vehicles has ignited a new kind of “space race” within the automobile industry.

After one of the most destructive and extreme wildfire seasons in modern history, residents of California are bracing again. Widening drought is creating conditions even worse than last year.

A unique new space in Fergus Falls lets artists and entrepreneurs experiment with turning plastic waste into nearly anything they can imagine. County officials hope the space will spark creative ideas — and educate more people about recycling.

Trillions of cicadas are about to emerge from 15 U.S. states. Scientists say Brood X (as in 10, not the letter) is one of the biggest for these bugs that come out only once every 17 years.

Ecologist Suzanne Simard says trees are "social creatures" that communicate with each other in remarkable ways — including warning each other of danger and sharing nutrients at critical times.

A huge organic farm that's backed by the company General Mills is facing accusations that it's doing more environmental harm than good. It shows the difficulties of delivering on green promises.

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.

While most states pursue ways to boost renewable energy, Wyoming is doing the opposite with a new program aimed at propping up the dwindling coal industry by suing other states that block exports of Wyoming coal and cause Wyoming coal-fired power plants to shut down.

Coastal communities will need massive amounts of mud and dirt to protect their shorelines from rising seas. One federal agency has it — but most is disposed of, instead of reused.