U.N. Body Alarmed Over Mining Waste Disasters
A report by the United Nations Environmental Programme offers recommendations to stop the failure of dams holding mine waste. Will governments and industry leaders sign on?
Environment
To Burst The Bottle Bubble, Fountains In Paris Now Flow With Sparkling Water
France might be known for its bottled water (think Evian or Perrier). But in Paris, the mayor wants people to give up plastic bottles in favor of city tap water — with bubbles added for extra appeal.
Credit Rating Agency Issues Warning On Climate Change To Cities
Moody's Investor Services says it might downgrade U.S. cities' credit rating if they don't deal with the risks posed by climate change.
Grandfather Mountain Pushes Back Against Proposed Changes To Regulations
The nonprofit foundation that oversees Grandfather Mountain Nature Park is concerned about proposed changes to park rules.
Complexity Of Touring With Rosewood Instruments May Soon Be Eased
Complex regulations around the material, including a confusing permit process for musicians, may be much easier to navigate after a meeting today in Geneva.
Wet Wipes: To Flush Or Not To Flush?
The wet wipes industry is blossoming. But with the growth comes a problem: clogged drains. Now the fight over "flushability" is heading to court.
The Tree That Rocked The Music Industry
This year, new international regulations on rosewood have reverberated through the music industry, costing tens of millions in lost sales and extra administrative costs.
Keystone Spill Likely Caused By Construction Damage, Investigators Say
The leak was initially estimated to have released some 210,000 gallons of crude. Federal investigators say that they now have an "unconfirmed lower spill estimate," without specifying how much.
Climate Scientists Watch Their Words, Hoping To Stave Off Funding Cuts
After years of budget and political pressure, some climate scientists are changing the way they describe their research, and avoiding the term "climate change."
Trump Picks Businessman To Lead NOAA
Senators are about to get their chance to grill the nominee for head of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Critics say he has a conflict of interest.