May 31, 2024
Image: Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Wealthy nations finally surpass $100 billion climate aid goal; the climate opportunity in a cicada boom; and one tribe's efforts to take recycling into their own hands.
In 2009, wealthy nations pledged to provide developing countries $100b in climate aid annually by 2020. In 2022 they finally met, and surpassed, the goal. But developing countries still need trillions more to move to clean energy and adapt to climate impacts.
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The 300-member tribe manages its own recycling program to counter a lack of state-run services. It's one of about 60 tribal efforts to be bolstered by recent EPA funding that aims to help tribes start and grow recycling programs.
Edible insects could decarbonize America's food system. But lobbyists, conspiracy theories, and a culturally imposed "ick" factor stand in the way. As trillions of cicadas emerge in the Midwest, experts see an opportunity to move the needle.
U.S. Department of Agriculture / Agricultural Research Service
Frustrated with high rates and poor service, voters in San Diego just submitted a petition with 30,000 signatures in favor of a ballot initiative on establishing a nonprofit power company. It's the first such effort since voters rejected public power in Maine.
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The White House released new guidelines for carbon credit markets. Investigations have found many carbon offsets ineffective, and the guidelines aim to bolster confidence in a $2b market. Critics say they don’t address more fundamental concerns.
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