Articles by Grist staff

EPA says ignore CO2 when issuing permits for coal plants

Coal-fired power plants’ greenhouse-gas emissions shouldn’t be taken into consideration when determining whether to approve their construction, EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson ruled this week. The ruling could clear the way for at least a handful of new coal plants to be approved in the final days of the Bush administration. “The current concerns over global […]

Rule change would allow more mountain biking in national parks

A proposed rule change at the U.S. Interior Department would make it easier for individual national parks to open existing trails to mountain biking, a move opposed by some conservationists and hikers who argue mountain biking can speed erosion and disturb the national-park experience for other visitors. For their part, mountain-biking advocates say that greater […]

Feds reject toll road that would have cut through state park, ruined surfing

The U.S. Commerce Department ruled against construction of a toll road this week that would have cut through California’s San Onofre State Park, potentially disturbed endangered species, and destroyed the bitchin’ waves at a popular surfing spot. In a last-ditch attempt to resuscitate the road after a slapdown by the state’s coastal commission, proponents had […]

Power from stationary bikes to light up Times Square New Year’s sign

As part of the effort to green New Year’s festivities in Times Square, battery maker Duracell has set up a “power lodge” nearby where volunteers can take a turn on stationary bikes that will power the “2009” sign marking arrival of the new year after the infamous illuminated ball drops. So far, only about 95 […]