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

Trump triumphs, climate takes a backseat

With Trump back in the White House, climate action might be on a serious hiatus. Experts warn that environmental rollbacks, court battles and a clampdown on dissent could be in the cards, potentially undermining U.S. progress on climate change for years to come. Brace for impact, planet Earth.
Source: Grist, The Guardian, NY Times

Contamination cover-up? Detroit’s missile park secrets

Detroit’s AB Ford Park, once a Cold War missile site, may still hide toxic surprises beneath its surface, and the city’s keeping mum. Recent reports hint at possible contamination, raising questions about transparency and safety. Is Ford Park a green space—or a toxic ticking time bomb?
Source: Metro Times

Northern Michigan: A ‘carbon’ goldmine?

Northern Michigan could be sitting on a treasure trove for carbon capture, but not everyone’s cheering. While some see the region’s geology as ideal for trapping emissions underground, locals are wary of environmental risks. Will this climate “solution” come with hidden costs?
Source: The Detroit News

Michigan’s green building codes stuck in the past

Michigan’s building codes are woefully outdated, and environmental advocates want to bring them into the 21st century. While new codes could make structures more eco-friendly, years of delays are holding progress hostage. So, how long before Michigan’s buildings go green?
Source: MLive

Ford EVs hit a speed bump in Dearborn

Ford’s electric F-150 production is on pause in Dearborn, leaving EV fans in limbo. The automaker’s latest move raises questions about commitment to electric vehicles amid industry shifts. For now, it looks like Ford’s EV ambitions are idling.
Source: Detroit Free Press

Biogas bubble bursts in Michigan farm country

A controversial Michigan biogas plant is facing shutdown as water worries drown out its eco-friendly pitch. Local opposition has ramped up over potential water contamination, stalling permits for the plant’s expansion. Clean energy or pollution risk—farmers aren’t sold.
Source: MLive

U.P. copper mining plan faces tough crowd

At a public hearing, Michigan’s U.P. residents voiced big concerns about proposed copper mining. Environmental impacts, water quality, and long-term sustainability took center stage, sparking debate over mining’s future in the region. Copper may be in demand, but locals want answers first.
Source: Interlochen Public Radio

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Nina Misuraca Ignaczak is an award-winning Metro Detroit-based editor, journalist, and documentary filmmaker. She is the founder, publisher, and editor of Planet Detroit, a digital media startup focused on producing quality climate, equity, health, and environment journalism that centers grassroots voices, holds power accountable, and spotlights solutions. Planet Detroit has received awards and recognition from the Society for Professional Journalists Detroit, the Institute for Nonprofit News, and LION Publishers since its establishment in 2019. Prior to her journalism career, Nina worked in urban planning in local government and nonprofit sectors, holding a Master of Science in Natural Resource Ecology and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.