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.
‘Weird science’: Vance dodges on the cause of climate change in VP debate
During the 2024 vice presidential debate, JD Vance sidestepped whether human activity drives climate change. While acknowledging that Americans are justifiably concerned about “crazy weather patterns,” Vance framed carbon emissions as a possible cause only “for the sake of argument.” Instead of addressing the science, he pivoted to a domestic focus, arguing that reshoring manufacturing to the U.S., with its “cleaner” energy production, would be the best approach. Vance then blamed Kamala Harris for doing “the opposite.” Walz missed an opportunity to press him on this, choosing instead to rattle off statistics without challenging Vance’s ambiguous stance on the science behind climate change. This evasion allowed Vance to position climate policy as more about jobs than addressing environmental urgency. Slate
Corrosion control measures ramped up by GLWA
The Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) plans to enhance corrosion control efforts in its water treatment process to protect residents from lead leaching into drinking water. This comes in response to regulatory concerns and a push for increased safety measures across Southeast Michigan. Michigan Radio
GLWA and Army Corps team up to tackle Detroit flooding
The GLWA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are joining forces to study Southeast Michigan’s flood risks. With recent years bringing severe floods, the partnership aims to assess and develop long-term solutions to improve the region’s resilience to climate change. The study could take years. Michigan Radio | Detroit News
Lake Michigan temps are hitting record highs—uh-oh
Lake Michigan’s temperatures are breaking historical records, causing alarm among scientists and environmentalists. Warmer lakes disrupt ecosystems and may lead to more severe storms around the Great Lakes, compounding concerns over climate change’s impact on Michigan’s environment. Metro Times
You’re not imagining it: Fall allergies in Michigan are worse than ever
Experts warn that fall allergies in Michigan are getting more severe, driven by longer pollen seasons and increased temperatures. Expect sneezing, itchy eyes, and extra tissue usage. Climate change is believed to be a major contributor to the misery. Bridge Michigan
Michigan still drilling for oil, but who’s paying to clean up?
Michigan continues to pump oil from its wells, but taxpayers are often left footing the bill when it comes to capping abandoned and orphan wells. Many of these wells are left unsealed, posing environmental hazards, while the state works to find solutions for addressing the growing backlog. Bridge Michigan
Free COVID tests return to Michigan just in time for flu season
Michigan residents can now order free at-home COVID-19 tests once again. As the state braces for its respiratory disease season, including flu and RSV, officials hope the renewed availability of free tests will help manage the spread of infections and keep hospitals from being overwhelmed. Bridge Detroit
Democrats push Michigan’s clean energy future as election looms
Democrats are leaning hard into Michigan’s emerging role as a hub for clean energy manufacturing as the 2024 election approaches. Investments in electric vehicles (EVs), battery production and solar panel factories are ramping up. This push aligns with the party’s broader strategy to secure votes by promising jobs and sustainable industrial growth. As new facilities open, Michigan’s workforce could see major gains, just in time for Democrats to tout their clean energy credentials at the ballot box. Canary Media
Fluoride risks prompt push for EPA action
A federal judge has determined that fluoride in drinking water could pose enough of a health risk to warrant new actions from the EPA. This decision is expected to lead to changes in how fluoride is regulated, impacting communities nationwide. Detroit News