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.

Submit a question or story for Getting to Green here.

Climate Cast

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

Beyond the compost bin: How companies are reducing food waste
An estimated 35 percent — or $408 billion worth — of food in the United States goes to waste, emitting methane and creating inefficiencies in carbon-heavy supply chains.
Tribes’ spring fish harvest provides food, preserves culture
With the ice finally gone on most Minnesota lakes, the annual tradition of spearing or netting fish is underway. The spring harvest is an exercise of tribal treaty rights, and the result of a long-fought legal battle.
The work-from-home climate challenge
Companies might have thought a silver lining from the pandemic was that remote work was slashing emissions. They're thinking again.
Forest loss in 2021 emitted as much carbon as India does
Forests are supposed to help us remove carbon from the atmosphere. But forest loss to development and fires last year meant some forests added carbon to the atmosphere.
New Bemidji State degree draws on Indigenous practices to teach 21st century sustainability
BSU students can now earn a full degree in Indigenous Sustainability Studies that builds on traditional philosophies and practices while also studying the mainstream sustainability techniques.
EPA recommends Army Corps not reissue PolyMet water permit
While only a recommendation, the move by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency could deal a potentially severe blow to the controversial $1 billion mine proposed near Babbitt and Hoyt Lakes in northeastern Minnesota.