Here’s a weekly behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of the stories we’re following. Have a reading recommendation? Let us know at nina@planetdetroit.org.
???? Michigan bird flu mystery: Michigan has emerged as a national hotspot for the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1), with unusually high levels detected in wastewater from all six of its monitoring sites, despite no confirmed outbreaks in some of these areas. Researchers are puzzled by these findings, considering various potential sources such as infected dairy cattle, unknown human carriers, or other environmental contributors, while investigating the broader implications of Michigan bird flu detections for public and animal health. (Freep)
????Blocking utility political spending: Michigan lawmakers and the “Taking Back Our Power” coalition are proposing bills to ban political contributions from utilities like DTE Energy and Consumers Energy, aiming to curb their significant influence on state politics and legislation. Despite introducing similar legislation in both the Senate and House, the proposal faces challenges in advancing through the legislature, where both utilities are known for their substantial financial contributions to political campaigns. (Freep)
????Black children hardest hit by seasonal allergies: In Detroit, Black children like three-year-old River are disproportionately affected by asthma exacerbated by seasonal allergies, significantly higher than the state’s average due to high levels of pollution and lack of green spaces. Despite daily efforts by his mother to mitigate symptoms with home air purifiers and closed windows, River’s condition worsens during pollen seasons, leading to frequent emergency room visits and a marked impact on his quality of life. (BridgeDetroit)
???? Cutting emissions: The Port of Detroit, a major economic hub, is exploring biodiesel as a new fuel to reduce the local environmental impact of its operations, which includes significant pollution affecting nearby communities with high asthma rates. Critics and environmental groups are skeptical about the effectiveness of biodiesel in significantly reducing emissions and are concerned about the potential environmental costs of increased crop cultivation for fuel production. Meanwhile, the City of Detroit is actively seeking innovative solutions to reduce fossil fuel use and enhance clean freight operations in Eastern Market, bolstered by a $3 million grant from the Sustainable Cities Challenge, which aims to facilitate the adoption of clean freight technologies and improve operations. This initiative is part of a global competition, with Detroit being one of only three cities selected worldwide, emphasizing its historical significance in transportation innovation and its role in a major regional food distribution network. (Detroit News, Model D)
????Heat hazards for outdoor workers: As Michigan faces a heat wave with temperatures in the 90s and high humidity, outdoor workers in industries like construction and agriculture face increased risks of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which lacks specific state heat regulations, emphasizes the importance of employer awareness and preparedness to protect workers, offering consultations and enforcing guidelines to ensure safe working conditions. (Michigan Public)
????️ Great Lakes urban heat islands: Urban heat islands around the Great Lakes, like Cleveland, Chicago, and Detroit, intensify local temperatures, significantly impacting human health, especially for those with chronic conditions like Lupus. Despite efforts at long-term heat mitigation, cities struggle with immediate heat management, burdening residents with the health consequences of rising temperatures.(Great Lakes Now)
⚖️Line 5 returned to state court: The legal battle over Enbridge Energy’s Line 5 pipeline continues in Michigan state court after a federal appeals court decision returned the case to the Ingham County Circuit Court, ruling that Enbridge missed the deadline to transfer it to federal court. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel welcomed the decision, emphasizing the state’s duty to protect the Great Lakes from potential oil spills, while Enbridge expressed disappointment, citing substantial federal law questions and continuing with plans to enhance pipeline safety through the Great Lakes Tunnel project. (Michigan Public)
????️ EVs headwinds: The largest U.S. oil trade group, including prominent members like ExxonMobil and Chevron, has filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration’s new tailpipe emission rules that promote electric vehicle (EV) production and aim to reduce emissions from cars and light trucks. The American Petroleum Institute (API) argues that these rules exceed the EPA’s authority and could jeopardize U.S. energy security, American jobs, and the corn-ethanol industry, leading to significant opposition from various stakeholders, including auto dealers and farm groups. Meanwhile, Bridge Michigan reports that the state has spent more than a billion on EV and battery plants, with most projects delayed or downsized and about 200 jobs created so far. (Reuters, Bridge Michigan)