Articles by Grist staff

Sand Witches

Artificial and Restored Beaches Threaten Marine Ecosystems Beautiful sand beaches are one of Ma Nature’s most splendid creations — except sometimes they’re actually the handiwork of humans. Every year, millions of dollars go to creating sand beaches on previously rocky coasts and rebuilding beaches at key tourist destinations that have been eroded by storms, changing […]

Deserters

Conference on Desertification Gains Little Ground The sixth international conference on desertification ended yesterday in Cuba with few results, save for a decision on how to finance efforts to slow the encroachment of arid regions and the loss of fertile lands. Leaders of 10 African and Caribbean nations attending the U.N. Convention to Combat Desertification […]

Thirsty Hungary

Central Europe’s Largest Lake Is Shrinking According to legend, Hungary’s Lake Balaton is constantly replenished by a young girl weeping in a church in the middle of its waters. Now, though, Central Europe’s largest lake is shrinking, and experts say the problem isn’t a happier lake lady; it’s global warming. Following four hot summers in […]

Giving Up the Ghost Fleet

U.S. Navy Ships Get Ready for Transatlantic Trip, Toxics and All Thirteen is not a lucky number, and many fear that bad luck could trail in the wake of 13 decrepit and pollution-laden U.S. ships that are set to embark on a 4,500-mile voyage from Virginia to the British region of Teesside.* The ships are […]