'The Summit Is Never The Goal': Why Climbers Pursue The 7 Summits
Members of the Seven Summits Club reflect on the recent deaths on Mount Everest and explain how drive and risk analysis coexist in extreme mountaineering.
Environment
1 Billion Acres At Risk For Catastrophic Wildfires, U.S. Forest Service Warns
Chief Vicki Christiansen says the danger is now year-round, thanks to hazardous conditions in forests, rampant home development and the changing climate.
The 'Great Dying' Nearly Erased Life On Earth. Scientists See Similarities To Today
It was the biggest extinction in Earth's history. A new Smithsonian exhibit notes that some of the same things that killed over 90% of ocean species 250 million years ago are happening now.
How Extreme Weather Is Affecting People's Opinions Of Climate Change
An increasing body of research finds people's beliefs about climate change can be changed by big disasters, like the current flooding across America's heartland.
Carnival Cruise Lines Hit With $20 Million Penalty For Environmental Crimes
The company has a long history of dumping plastic trash and oily waste from its ships, with violations dating back to 1993. In 2016, its Princess subsidiary agreed to pay $40 million for pollution.
Armadillos On The Move To North Carolina
North Carolina is experiencing what could be an unusual impact from climate change: more armadillos.
$3 Million Settlement Revealed In High-Profile Fracking Case
The settlement is now public because of computer error. Pennsylvania families, whose ordeal was detailed in a Pulitzer-winning book, claimed air, groundwater and soil contamination.
Carnival Corp. Agrees To $20 Million Fine For Pollution Violations
Executives with Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise line, were in court explaining why its ships continue to dump plastics and other pollutants into waters in the Caribbean and Alaska.
'Underland' Connects Us To Dazzling Worlds Beneath Our Feet
The beauty of Robert Macfarlane's writing, and of the natural world it describes, is immense. His words also act as a warning, ensuring a recognition of human harms to the environment.
To Some Solar Users, Power Company Fees Are An Unfair Charge
Alabama has some of highest solar fees in the U.S. and critics say it's hurting solar customers. It's one of several states where utilities are proposing or raising fees for homes with rooftop solar.