EPA Grants Dispute

A federal judge blocked the EPA from terminating $14 billion in grants awarded to three climate groups by the Biden administration. The judge ruled that the government's allegations of fraud were insufficient.

EPA terminates $20 billion in grants for climate and clean-energy projects

The Environmental Protection Agency is terminating $20 billion in grants awarded by the Biden administration for climate and clean-energy projects due to concerns of program integrity, fraud, and misalignment with agency priorities. The grants were frozen and are now under investigation by the Department of Justice and FBI.

Ancient Arctic Climate in Subarctic Canada

A new study reveals that palm trees once grew in subarctic Canada, indicating a warm climate 48 million years ago. Fossils of warm-water species suggest the region was ice-free and had a subtropical climate. The research helps refine climate change models and challenges assumptions about when ice first formed in the Northern Hemisphere.

Tropical Cyclones in the South Pacific

Three tropical cyclones are spinning in the South Pacific, an unusual occurrence in the region. Experts attribute this to high activity typical for this time of year, potentially enhanced by a Madden-Julian Oscillation. The storms are causing damage and are being closely monitored.

US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa) Restrictions on Scientists

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa) has imposed new restrictions on its scientists, causing concern within the agency and among partners at European agencies. The restrictions include oversight on scientists' email and meetings with foreign nationals, documentation of all international engagements, and potential budget and staffing cuts. These measures are part of a larger effort by the Trump administration to reduce government spending and reprioritize federal efforts away from the climate crisis.

Recent News Highlights

President-elect Donald Trump announces more Cabinet picks. U.N. report says a woman or girl was killed every 10 minutes in 2023. Climate conference ends with a deal to help developing countries.

China-U.S. Climate Talks in Beijing

China and the United States are working on narrowing their differences on climate issues, including climate finance, during talks in Beijing. Progress has been made despite some friction in the bilateral relationship.

Rising Danger of Sailing in the Mediterranean

The shipwreck of a luxury yacht off the coast of Sicily highlights the increasing danger of sailing in the Mediterranean due to violent storms caused by global warming. One person died and six are missing, including British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch. Climate experts warn of more frequent and intense storms in the region.

Endorsement of Kamala Harris by Jane Fonda

Actress Jane Fonda endorses Vice President Kamala Harris for president, citing climate and environmental issues as key reasons, amidst an economic meltdown.

Climate Protesters Disrupt PGA Tour Event

Climate protesters stormed the green at the 18th hole of the PGA Tour's Travelers Championship in Connecticut, spraying red-colored smoke and causing a disruption during the tournament.

Intense Flooding in Southern Brazil

Intense flooding in southern Brazil has led to rising river levels, resulting in the deaths of around 150 people and forcing half a million to leave their homes, highlighting the issue of climate migration globally.

Tennessee's Ban on Geoengineering and 'Chemtrails' Conspiracy Theory

Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill to ban geoengineering, with references to 'chemtrails' conspiracy theory. The bill aims to prevent intentional modification of the atmosphere to counteract global warming.

Surging Cocoa Prices Impacting Chocolate Prices

Cocoa prices have more than doubled in the first three months of the year due to a dramatic drop in supply caused by extreme weather and changing climate patterns in West Africa. This has led to the surge in chocolate prices, making Easter chocolates more expensive for consumers.