In Detroit, federal environmental cuts and deregulation threaten the Great Lakes ecosystem, with layoffs at the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and weakened environmental protections raising concerns about long-term impacts.
Posted inNews
Could Trump make it easier for DTE to build natural gas plants?
DTE CEO said efforts to roll back clean energy rules could facilitate natural gas buildout, provide “flexibility” on coal plant retirements. Experts warn building new gas plants could put ratepayers on the hook for stranded assets.
Posted inNeighborhood Reporting Lab
Detroiter’s activism around I-375 project starts with appreciation for Black Bottom history
Carl Bentley and the ReThink I-375 Coalition question the environmental impact, community involvement, and economic outcomes of Detroit’s $300 million I-375 revamp, and advocate for genuine community partnership in the project.
Posted inCommunity
ICE fears drive older Latino Detroiters from vital health, social services
In Southwest Detroit, heightened ICE activity has sown fear and isolation among older Latinos, who depend on family and community for essential needs. This has spurred LA SED Senior Center to adapt, focusing on emotional support and wellness checks.
Posted inNews
Federal funding risks won’t deter Michigan’s climate plans: EGLE director
Despite federal funding uncertainties, Michigan’s climate efforts persist, driven by local and nonprofit collaboration to achieve the MI Healthy Climate Plan’s goals.
Posted inNews
EPA offers Clean Air Act exemptions from Trump, and one of metro Detroit’s top polluters applies
A new EPA policy under the Trump administration could let over 500 facilities nationwide sidestep pollution controls for two years, a move that critics say endangers millions of Americans.
Posted inNews
Proposed elimination of Energy Star program threatens Michigan building efficiency efforts
The Trump administration’s proposal to dismantle the Energy Star program raises concerns about the future of local climate initiatives and building decarbonization efforts. As Detroit’s 2030 District braces for potential impacts, stakeholders emphasize the program’s role in advancing energy efficiency.
Posted inNews
What we’re reading: Michigan drinking water, energy assistance, housing programs at risk in Trump’s budget proposal
Trump’s budget proposal threatens vital services in Michigan and would cut energy aid for 430,000 households and slash $212 million from drinking water projects. In health care, three Detroit hospitals rank among the nation’s worst for patient safety, spotlighting health equity issues in a predominantly Black city.
Posted inNews
Natural gas spending will cost Michigan ratepayers, hurt climate goals, report finds
Michigan’s gas customers face soaring bills as utilities invest heavily in infrastructure, says Citizens Utility Board of Michigan. These investments threaten climate goals and could disproportionately impact vulnerable communities, raising concerns about equity and environmental sustainability, report says.
Posted inNews
Measles makes a comeback: Is US on the brink of new epidemic?
As measles cases surge globally, the U.S. faces a significant rise with 935 reported cases by May 2, raising concerns about the disease becoming endemic again if vaccination rates do not improve.