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

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An Orono couple faced a possible six months in jail over a wind turbine at their home. But an attorney for the couple says the judge ruled the Nygards did not have to take the turbine down to stay out of jail.
Does "green" investing really do anything for the climate? Is it more than a vote for values we agree with?
DNR: Moose count confirms continuing decline
Scientists aren't sure why moose are declining, but say warmer weather, parasites, disease and changing habitat are likely contributing factors.
Water, air quality concerns heighten conflict with pig farms
From Washington state to North Carolina, federal lawsuits are challenging the efficient, profitable livestock industry to change its ways.
Court battle reveals shift In debate over plastic safety
In 2007, a plastic called Tritan became in hit in part because it was free of the chemical BPA. Then a competitor suggested Tritan contained chemicals that act like estrogen.
Environmental advocacy groups have been in a legal battle with the U.S. Forest Service since 2006 over its plans to dedicate a snowmobile route in northeastern Minnesota.
How fix-it clinics bring new life to dead gadgets
Cities and counties in Minnesota are experimenting with a new way to cut down on the waste that winds up in landfills.
'Section 60': Where war comes home
Robert M. Poole explores the lives and deaths of veterans buried in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery.
Regulators back three major Minnesota solar projects
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Thursday signed off on plans for projects near North Branch, Marshall and Tracy capable of powering 41,000 homes.
8 million tons of plastic clutter our seas
A scientist estimating the weight of candy wrappers, bags, bottles, syringes and other plastic trash in the world's water sees a synthetic tsunami.