Climate

How mapping 'heat islands' can help cities prepare for extreme heat
Oklahoma City and several other cities last year worked with NOAA to map neighborhoods to find out how heat impacts neighborhoods. The data can help cities prepare and adapt to a warmer world.
Minnesota schools testing electric buses find benefits and barriers
A handful of Minnesota school districts are experimenting with electric buses. Early adopters find a lot to like about the clean running, quiet vehicles — but there are key barriers to wider adoption of the technology.
Data confirm trend of warming global temperatures in last ten years
Last year was by far the warmest year on record globally. NOAA, NASA, and European datasets all confirm the numbers. That means the 10 warmest years on record globally are the past 10 years. How do climate scientists explain this unprecedented warming trend?
Take a tour of a fully electric and energy efficient home
MPR News correspondents Dan Kraker and Kirsti Marohn tour the home of William and Kristin Mroz-Risse which has been made electric and more energy efficient.
When it comes to climate warming, cow burps are no joke
Animal agriculture is the largest source of the climate-warming gas methane in Minnesota. Researchers are looking for ways to reduce methane at the source — a cow’s stomach. The science is promising, but a quick solution is unlikely.
Minnesota ice season will be one for the record books
A January cold snap has created new ice on Minnesota lakes after record December warmth created open water on lakes across the state. The shortened ice season fits a long-term trend toward fewer days of frozen lakes across the state.
As session approaches, Minnesota lawmakers plan to keep advancing shift to clean energy
Key Minnesota legislators say not to expect climate legislation as ambitious as last year in the upcoming session. In 2023, they passed a historic legislation aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This year their focus will be on making sure the state’s able to achieve its clean energy goals.