On:
In: Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Michigan, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, News, Pennsylvania, PFAS, PFAS News Roundup, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: Pennsylvania sets regulations, judge says Wisconsin DNR can’t regulate, Chemours uses climate change to defend PFAS

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widespread man-made chemicals that don’t break down in the environment or the human body and have been flagged as a major contaminant in sources of water across the country.

Keep up with PFAS-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/pfas-news-roundup-pennsylvania-regulations-climate-change-defend/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: benton harbor, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The Catch, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
The Catch: Benton Harbor’s lead pipes and the plan to replace them

Broadcasting in our monthly PBS television program, The Catch is a Great Lakes Now series that brings you more news about the lakes you love. Go beyond the headlines with reporters from around the region who cover the lakes and drinking water issues. Find all the work HERE.

Benton Harbor’s water problems aren’t new.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/the-catch-benton-harbor-lead-pipes/

Sandra Svoboda

On:
In: benton harbor, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
State praised for vow to remove sources of lead from Benton Harbor homes

By Kelly House, Bridge Michigan

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/vow-remove-lead-benton-harbor-homes/

Bridge Michigan

On:
In: activism, Advocacy, Budget, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, legislation, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, pollution, The States
Illinois environmental justice bill would help residents prevent pollution

By Kari Lydersen, Energy News Network

This story was first published on the Energy News Network and was republished here with permission.

Illinois activists who led fights to close coal plants and ban petroleum coke storage are now leading the charge for a bill that would provide new powers and funding to environmental justice communities.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/illinois-environmental-justice-bill-prevent-pollution/

Energy News Network

On:
In: Collaboration, Energy, Equity and Environmental Justice, funding, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Minnesota, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Minnesota bill aims to close a gap on funding for ‘pre-weatherization’ work

By Frank Jossi, Energy News Network

This story was first published on the Energy News Network and was republished here with permission.

A lack of state funding to help Minnesota homeowners clean up mold, asbestos and other hazards is limiting the reach of federal weatherization programs in the state, preventing some of those most in need from accessing benefits.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/minnesota-bill-funding-pre-weatherization-work/

Energy News Network

On:
In: Climate change, Energy, energy news, Energy News Roundup, energy roundup, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Indiana, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, Natasha Blakely, News, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania
Energy News Roundup: Weatherization money going to states for low-income homes, misinformation derails energy projects

Keep up with energy-related developments in the Great Lakes area with Great Lakes Now’s biweekly headline roundup.

Click on the headline to read the full story:

Illinois:

  • Illinois AG files suit against Marathon over crude oil spill in Cahokia Creek – KSDK

The lawsuit filed against Marathon Pipe Line in Madison County Court alleges multiple violations of the Illinois Environmental Protection Act.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/04/weatherization-money-low-income-homes-misinformation-energy-projects/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: AP, Budget, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism, The States, Tourism, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Michigan Gov. Whitmer signs over $4.7B for infrastructure

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan is investing more than $4.7 billion to improve infrastructure, including drinking water upgrades, internet access and fixing roads, bridges and dams.

The spending plan includes some of the biggest infrastructure investments in state history, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Wednesday before signing the bipartisan legislation in Grand Rapids.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-gov-whitmer-signs-4-7b-infrastructure/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Budget, Detroit, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, flint, Grand Rapids, infrastructure, legislation, Michigan, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Michigan Legislature approves $4.8B infrastructure plan

By David Eggert, Associated Press

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan lawmakers approved $4.8 billion in spending March 24, mostly for infrastructure upgrades, with an influx of federal pandemic and other funds that will go toward water systems, roads, parks and other priorities including affordable housing.

The huge supplemental budget plan, which Gov.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-michigan-legislature-approves-infrastructure-plan/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Chicago, Climate change, Collaboration, Education, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, History and Culture, Lighthouses, Museums and Cultural Institutions, Municipalities, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Recreation and Tourism, science, Science, Technology, Research
Chicago educator empowers students to make climate connections in their own communities

By Audrey Henderson, Energy News Network

This story was first published on the Energy News Network and was republished here with permission.

For many city kids, flowers have cut stems and vegetables are packed in styrofoam and plastic on shelves in the grocery store.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/chicago-educator-empowers-students-climate-connections-communities/

Energy News Network

On:
In: Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Indiana, Latest News, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, News, Ohio, Pennsylvania, PFAS, PFAS News Roundup, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: Indiana PFAS property transfers, Lake Superior rainbow smelt advisory, new Ohio PFAS regulation bill

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widespread man-made chemicals that don’t break down in the environment or the human body and have been flagged as a major contaminant in sources of water across the country.

Keep up with PFAS-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/pfas-news-roundup-indiana-new-ohio-pfas-regulation-bill/

Maya Sundaresan

On:
In: Advocacy, Climate change, Collaboration, environmental equity, Equity and Environmental Justice, flooding, History and Culture, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, The States, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
Black Neighborhoods Will Bear Future Flood Burden

By Kimberly M. S. Cartier, Eos

This story originally appeared in Eos and is republished here as part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.

Residents of New Orleans are no strangers to floods and the losses that follow.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/black-neighborhoods-future-flood-burden/

Eos

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Lead, flint, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Judge: Ex-governor must testify in Flint water civil trial

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Former Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder and several other officials must testify in a civil trial involving engineering firms being sued over liability for lead-contaminated water connected to the Flint water crisis, a judge ruled Monday.

U.S. District Judge Judith Levy denied motions by Snyder, his former advisor, two former state-appointed emergency managers and an ex-Flint city official to quash subpoenas compelling them to testify.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-ex-governor-testify-flint-water-civil-trial/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Advocacy, benton harbor, Chicago, Detroit, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, flint, Gary Wilson, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, The States
Substantive change will require a ‘massive culture shift’ in federal, state and local agencies

When it comes to dealing with Michigan’s regulators on environmental justice issues, Detroit environmental law attorney Nick Leonard wants to change the narrative.

Too often when confronted with decisions that impact environmental justice communities, regulators focus on limitations and what they can’t do, Leonard recently told Great Lakes Now.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/substantive-change-federal-state-local-agencies/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: AP, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Equity and Environmental Justice, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, line 5, News, pipelines, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, Wisconsin
DNR extends comment period on Enbridge line reroute

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The comment period on a draft analysis of the environmental impact of rerouting an oil and gas pipeline around an American Indian reservation in northern Wisconsin will run for an additional month, state regulators announced Wednesday.

The Enbridge Line 5 pipeline carries oil and natural gas liquids from Superior to Sarnia.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-dnr-extends-comment-period-enbridge-reroute/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Collaboration, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Indiana, Latest News, Lead, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research, study
Indiana University study links lead exposure to juvenile delinquency

By Timberly Ferree, Indiana Environmental Reporter

In the first direct analysis of its kind, a study by Indiana University researchers has found a link between lead in drinking water, specifically from private wells, and juvenile delinquency.

“There’s not been a direct analysis on lead exposure and children’s outcomes later in life before.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/study-lead-exposure-juvenile-delinquency/

Indiana Environmental Reporter

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, flint, flint water, infrastructure, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Flint water main breaks prompt water conservation request

FLINT, Mich. (AP) — Water main breaks blamed on temperature fluctuations has prompted Flint officials to ask residents and businesses to temporarily cut back on water usage.

The water conservation request is through Wednesday, the city said Friday in a release.

Main breaks have impacted water storage supply in a reservoir and elevated water tower, according to the city.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-flint-water-main-breaks/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Equity and Environmental Justice, History and Culture, indigenous communities, National Parks, News, Recreation and Tourism, Tourism, Tribal Governments and First Nations, Tribal Leadership, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
US looks to boost cooperation with tribes on land management

By Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — National Park Service Director Chuck Sams said Tuesday he and other officials are committed to boosting the role Native American tribes can play in managing public lands around the U.S.

He told members of a congressional committee during a virtual hearing that part of the effort includes integrating Indigenous knowledge into management plans and recognizing that federal lands once belonged to the tribes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/ap-us-boost-cooperation-tribes-land-management/

The Associated Press

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Lead, flint, Flint Water Crisis, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Snyder will take 5th if called to testify in water trial

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Former Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder, who faces misdemeanor charges in the Flint water crisis, wants to avoid testifying in a civil trial involving engineering firms that are being sued over liability for lead-contaminated water.

Snyder’s attorneys said he would invoke his right to remain silent if called as a witness in the ongoing civil trial in federal court in Ann Arbor.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/snyder-take-5th-if-testify-water-trial/

The Associated Press

On:
In: benton harbor, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Benton Harbor residents should keep drinking bottled water, but EPA says filters work on lead

By Lindsey Smith, Michigan Radio

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/benton-harbor-residents-epa-filters/

Michigan Radio

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, flint, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Trial begins in lawsuit against engineering firms that advised Flint during water crisis

By Tracy Samilton, Michigan Radio

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/trial-lawsuit-engineering-flint-water-crisis/

Michigan Radio

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Climate change, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, flooding, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
What Michigan can do as global report details ‘closing window’ on climate

By Kelly House, Bridge Michigan

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/03/michigan-global-report-climate/

Bridge Michigan

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Drinking Water, environmental equity, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Protect, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Risky Drinking Water Pathogen Has Outsized Effect on Black Americans

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/drinking-water-pathogen-effect-black-americans/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: activism, Advocacy, Books, Books, Authors, Art and Music, Detroit, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Gary Wilson, History and Culture, Latest News, News, Ontario, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Canada’s Maude Barlow chronicles 40 years of activism in new book, “Still Hopeful”

For Maude Barlow, the importance of hope was instilled by her parents as a child while having her morning oatmeal. It grew into a “lifelong mantra” that took her through the travails of 40 years of social justice and environmental activism in Canada and on the international stage.

Now, Barlow chronicles that hopeful trek in her 20th book, Still Hopeful: Lessons From A Lifetime Of Activism.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/maude-barlow-activism-book-still-hopeful/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Chicago, Climate change, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Science, Technology, Research, sustainability
Hydroponic greenhouses continue to offer solution to urban food deserts

Urban areas around the Midwest struggle with food deserts and dense populations, a problem exacerbated by climate change impacts and the conversion of farmlands to residential developments. However, a potential solution can be found in hydroponics facilities being established in cities around the Great Lakes region like Detroit, Cleveland, Toronto and Chicago.   

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/hydroponic-greenhouses-urban-food-deserts/

Audrey Henderson

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, flint, Flint Water Crisis, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Judge awards millions to lawyers in Flint water settlement

By Ed White, Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — A judge awarded about $40 million Friday to the lead attorneys in a $626 million settlement for Flint residents and property owners whose water was contaminated with lead, but millions in additional legal fees will also be carved out as claimants get paid.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/ap-lawyers-flint-settlement/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Illinois, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, Minnesota, News, News Roundup Drinking Water, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Drinking Water News Roundup: New Illinois water quality bill, Minnesota mine lease canceled, Ontario’s wetland filtration

From lead pipes to PFAS, drinking water contamination is a major issue plaguing cities and towns all around the Great Lakes. Cleaning up contaminants and providing safe water to everyone is an ongoing public health struggle. 

Keep up with drinking water-related developments in the Great Lakes area. 

Click on the headline to read the full-story: 

Illinois:  

  • IL Bill Could Impact Waters as Distant as Gulf of Mexico—Public News Service  

Legislators in Illinois are looking favorably upon a bill that may improve water quality for a large portion of the nation.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/02/water-quality-bill-mine-wetland/

Maya Sundaresan

On:
In: AP, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Lead, flint, infrastructure, Lead, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
US pushes for better tap water but must win over wary public

By Michael Phillis, Associated Press

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Angela Stamps won’t drink water from her faucet, showers less and no longer takes the baths she once found relaxing. She doesn’t cook with tap water and sometimes skips rinsing her produce.

Even though the amount of lead in Flint, Michigan’s tap water has been well below a key state threshold for several years, she hasn’t been able to stop worrying since going through the trauma of the city’s lead crisis.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/us-pushes-better-tap-water/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, fish, forever chemicals, Forever Chemicals Featured, Groundwater Contamination, Illinois, indigenous communities, Lake Superior, Latest News, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, News Roundup PFAS, PFAS, Policy, Wisconsin
PFAS News Roundup: PFAS in Lake Superior fish, two Michigan locations could land on Superfund list

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widespread man-made chemicals that don’t break down in the environment or the human body and have been flagged as a major contaminant in sources of water across the country.

Keep up with PFAS-related developments in the Great Lakes area.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/pfas-news-lake-superior-fish-michigan-superfund-list/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Climate change, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, indigenous communities, Latest News, line 5, Michigan, Natasha Blakely, oil pipelines
On Record: Enbridge returns to court to try to get Line 5 permit

A new round of court proceedings commences in the long-running Enbridge Inc. Line 5 saga as Administrative Law Judge Dennis Mack oversees the cross-examination of a series of witnesses starting on Jan. 14.

The results of this cross-examination will play a role in the Michigan Public Service Commission’s decision on whether or not to grant Enbridge one of the key permits it needs to construct the Line 5 tunnel.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/enbridge-court-michigan-public-service-commission-line-5-permit/

Natasha Blakely

On:
In: Advocacy, AP, biden administration, Climate change, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Trump Administration, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
Environmental justice in spotlight as WH official departs

By Drew Costley, Associated Press

The White House’s top official on environmental justice is stepping down a year after President Joe Biden took office with an ambitious plan to help disadvantaged communities and overhaul policies that have historically hurt them.

The departure Friday of Cecilia Martinez, senior director for environmental justice at the Council for Environmental Quality, puts a spotlight on both the administration’s successes and promises yet to be fulfilled.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2022/01/ap-environmental-justice-official/

The Associated Press

On:
In: benton harbor, Budget, Chicago, Drinking Water, epa, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature Lead, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Q&A: New EPA Great Lakes administrator talks Benton Harbor, infrastructure, AOC cleanup

Conservation action for Debra Shore started with the driveway at her suburban Chicago home.

It was asphalt, and she wanted to replace it with gravel to absorb the rain and keep pollutants out of the stormwater drains. But her town administration said no to the permit, though it eventually yielded.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/11/epa-great-lakes-administrator-benton-harbor-infrastructure-cleanup/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Advocacy, AP, Climate change, COP26, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Latest News, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Billions in environmental justice funds hang in the balance

By Drew Costley, AP Science Writer

Tens of billions of dollars for U.S. environmental justice initiatives originally proposed in a $3.5 trillion domestic spending package now hang in the balance as Democrats decide how to trim the bill down to $2 trillion.

Investments in a wide range of these projects were proposed in the Build Back Better plan, but Senators Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona demanded that the bill be reduced, with Manchin asking for it to be cut by as much as half.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/10/ap-environmental-justice-funds-balance/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, flint, Gary Wilson, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News
Intervention: Doctor who exposed Flint’s lead levels sees similarities in Benton Harbor water crisis

For Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, advocating for safe drinking water for Benton Harbor was an easy decision.

She called it a “duh” moment, a “choiceless choice.” Of course she would join a group of citizens and activists in requesting the U.S. EPA to use its emergency intervention authority in Benton Harbor, she said.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/10/intervention-doctor-lead-levels-benton-harbor-water-crisis/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: Budget, Drinking Water, equity, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, Wisconsin
Community Assistance: Report finds disparities in drinking water fund distribution

Drinking water systems in small and more diverse communities nationwide are less likely to receive state funding through the Environmental Protection Agency’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, according to a recent report.

Through the fund, the EPA awards grants to each state and the states add a 20% match, according to the agency.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/09/report-disparities-drinking-water-fund-distribution-inequity/

Taylor Haelterman

On:
In: equity, Equity and Environmental Justice, invasive species, Invasives, Latest News, microplastics, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
Great Lakes Protection Fund: Award celebrates work tackling plastics, invasives, equity

Their daily work aims at reducing microplastics and invasive species in the Great Lakes, increasing attention to equity in the region’s environmentalism, helping communities finance water infrastructure, and better connecting foundations in coastline cities.

For this, six individuals from around the Great Lakes region earned a 2021 leadership award from the Great Lakes Protection Fund.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/09/great-lakes-protection-fund-award-plastics-invasives-equity/

GLN Editor

On:
In: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Chicago, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, flint, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Lead, Michigan, News
Some Chicagoans Wary of Lead Pipe Replacement

By Laura Gersony, Circle of Blue

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/chicago-wary-lead-pipe-replacement/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: Detroit, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Feature Homepage, industry, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, John Hartig, Latest News, Michigan, News, pollution
Great Lakes Moment: Ecosystem restoration needs more environmental justice

Great Lakes Moment is a monthly column written by Great Lakes Now Contributor John Hartig. Publishing the author’s views and assertions does not represent endorsement by Great Lakes Now or Detroit Public Television.

In southwest Detroit, evidence of environmental injustice can be found nearly everywhere, and communities of color and low wealth feel that polluting companies and government officials are not doing enough to address many long-standing environmental problems.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/07/ecosystem-restoration-environmental-justice-southwest-detroit/

John Hartig

On:
In: Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Habitat Restoration, John Hartig, Latest News, News, Research, Research, Data and Technology, Science, Technology, Research
Great Lakes Moment: The US-Canada ecosystem-focused approach to restoration

Great Lakes Moment is a monthly column written by Great Lakes Now Contributor John Hartig. Publishing the author’s views and assertions does not represent endorsement by Great Lakes Now or Detroit Public Television.

The United States and Canada now have over 40 years of collaborative history in use of an ecosystem approach to protect and restore the Great Lakes.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/06/international-ecoystem-approach-restoration-great-lakes/

John Hartig

On:
In: biden administration, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Gary Wilson, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice: Michigan’s goal is to be a national leader

President Joe Biden has put a spotlight on environmental justice like no president before him, and that’s good news for Regina Strong.

“I feel like environmental justice is having a moment,” Strong told Great Lakes Now last week. She was referring to a recent indication that U.S. EPA Administrator Michael Regan may be willing to engage more than his predecessors with state and local governments on issues important to communities.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/05/environmental-justice-michigan-goal-national-leader/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: biden administration, Budget, Buffalo, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Chicago, Climate change, Collaboration, COVID-19, Detroit, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Illinois, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, New York, News, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Policy, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, Quebec, The Provinces, The States, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, water shutoffs, Wisconsin
Water Access: As moratoria on shutoffs end, old problems return to the forefront

As moratoria expire across the Great Lakes region, advocates say ongoing affordability and debt relief are key.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/water-shutoffs-debt-infrastructure/

Kari Lydersen

On:
In: Collaboration, COVID-19, Drinking Water, Equity and Environmental Justice, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, PFAS
Federal Agencies Plan to Investigate Links between PFAS Exposure and Viral Illness

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/04/federal-agencies-plan-to-investigate-links-between-pfas-exposure-and-viral-illness/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: Budget, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Climate change, Collaboration, Detroit, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, water levels, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts
In flooded Michigan neighborhoods, who should pay for sea walls?

For two straight summers, residents of Detroit’s Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood watched water pour into basements and pool in streets, a result of coastal flooding that will become increasingly common throughout the Great Lakes as climate change progresses.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/climate-change-flooded-michigan-neighborhoods-pay-sea-walls/

Bridge Michigan

On:
In: biden administration, Chicago, COVID-19, Drinking Water, Environmental Justice, epa, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Homepage, Feature-Chicago, Gary Wilson, Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Illinois, Latest News, News, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, Water Quality and Restoration Efforts, water shutoffs
Priority Shift: Great Lakes exec moves environmental justice to top of list

Chicago’s Joel Brammeier came of age advocating for the Great Lakes in an era when federal programs that are widely accepted today like the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative were barely on the drawing board.

Brammeier started his advocacy work in 2001 when he managed habitat programs for the Lake Michigan Federation, which later became the Alliance for the Great Lakes as its mission expanded.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/great-lakes-environmental-justice-priority/

Gary Wilson

On:
In: biden administration, Cleveland, Climate change, Detroit, Energy, Energy, Clean Energy, Ethanol and Fracking, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Cleveland, Feature Detroit, Industry, Energy, Economic Development, infrastructure, Latest News, Michigan, News, Ohio, Policy, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, renewable energy, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
Air, Wind, Solar: In the Great Lakes region, energy stands out in President Biden’s efforts

If you have the good fortune to gaze at a Great Lake – any Great Lake – sometime in this strange year, you’re not likely to spot a glaring example of President Joseph R. Biden’s new emphasis on protecting the environment.

But that doesn’t mean they aren’t coming.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/air-wind-solar-great-lakes-energy-president-biden/

Dave Spratt

On:
In: AP, biden administration, Environmental Justice, epa, Equity and Environmental Justice, Groundwater Contamination, News, Ohio, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
Senate confirms Fudge to lead housing agency, Regan for EPA

By Mary Clare Jalonick and Matthew Daly, Associated Press Writers

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Wednesday confirmed Ohio Rep. Marcia Fudge to head the Department of Housing and Urban Development and North Carolina regulator Michael Regan to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, picking up the pace for confirmations in President Joe Biden’s Cabinet.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/ap-senate-confirms-fudge-regan-epa/

The Associated Press

On:
In: Climate change, Collaboration, Equity and Environmental Justice, infrastructure, Latest News, natural disasters, News, Policy, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, rural
Building Resilience in Rural America

By  Alessandra Jerolleman, Eos

This story originally appeared in Eos and is republished here as part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.

 

In the United States, 2020 will be remembered not just for a global pandemic but also for a series of back-to-back and record-breaking disasters that affected much of the country, including many rural communities.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/03/building-resilience-rural-america/

Eos

On:
In: AP, enbridge, Enbridge Line 5 and Other Pipelines, Equity and Environmental Justice, indigenous communities, Latest News, line 3, Minnesota, News, oil pipelines, Tribal Governments and First Nations
Enbridge Line 3 divides Indigenous lands, people

By Mary Annette Pember, Indian Country Today via AP

CLOQUET, Minn. (AP) — Jason Goward was overjoyed to get a high-paying job on Enbridge’s Line 3 pipeline project.

The job, clearing ground with a contractor for the Canadian energy company, meant he could at last pay child support for his two young sons.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/ap-enbridge-line-3-divides-indigenous-lands-people/

The Associated Press

On:
In: biden administration, Climate change, Collaboration, Equity and Environmental Justice, Latest News, News, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments, youth
Youth climate activists want an official seat at the table in Biden’s White House

By Ilana Cohen, Climate Tracker

This story originally appeared in Climate Tracker and is republished here as part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.

 

Last November, youth climate activists helped elect U.S. 

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/youth-climate-activists-biden-white-house/

Climate Tracker

On:
In: biden administration, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Partnership, Detroit, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice, U.S. and Canadian Federal Governments
Speaking of Water: How Can the Biden Administration Deliver on Environmental Justice Pledges?

By Brett Walton, Circle of Blue

The Great Lakes News Collaborative includes Bridge Michigan; Circle of Blue; Great Lakes Now at Detroit Public Television; and Michigan Radio, Michigan’s NPR News Leader; who work together to bring audiences news and information about the impact of climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure on the Great Lakes and drinking water.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/water-biden-administration-deliver-environmental-justice-pledges/

Circle of Blue

On:
In: biden administration, Climate change, Detroit, Environmental Justice, Equity and Environmental Justice, Feature Detroit, Gary Wilson, Latest News, Michigan, News, Politics, Politics, Policy, Environmental Justice
Excited about Biden: Detroit advocate hopeful on environmental justice progress after decades of inertia

Detroit’s Michelle Martinez is acutely aware of the patience needed when your profession is advocating for environmental justice, the fair and meaningful involvement of all people related to environmental laws and policies.

Martinez is acting executive director and statewide coordinator for the grassroots Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition.

It was 1994, almost three decades ago, that President Bill Clinton signed Executive Order 12898 putting the federal spotlight on environmental justice.

Read Now at Great Lakes Now.

Original Article

Great Lakes Now

Great Lakes Now

https://www.greatlakesnow.org/2021/02/detroit-advocate-hopeful-environmental-justice-progress-decades-inertia/

Gary Wilson