A loose coalition of environmental attorneys and activists are increasingly confronting industry with a multi-pronged approach — suing to force companies to follow the law, stepping in during the permitting process and waging campaigns to raise awareness of corporate misdeeds. During the early 1970s, Michigan enacted a bold set of environmental laws that helped form an […]
Posted inCommunity
Profiles in the fight for environmental justice: Shimekia Nichols
Detroit resident Shimekia Nichols has learned that critical questions are the first steps toward attaining democracy in a sector long dominated by convention. Most of us pay our electricity bill without much question. We do so without inquiring what exactly we’re paying for; without asking to be apprised of frequent rate hikes; without demanding a […]
Posted inGuides
Ask Planet Detroit: How much will air pollution affect my child?
Dear Planet Detroit, How will children living in areas with high levels of air pollution in Detroit be affected? Specifically, how might it impact their choices and their futures? Sincerely, Concerned Dear Concerned, This is a great question with far reaching implications. Children suffer the most from environmental impacts, as developmental side-effects from adolescence can […]
Posted inSolutions
Huron-Clinton Metroparks gets serious about diversity in hiring
As the Huron-Clinton Metroparks looks to be recognized as one of the premier parks systems in the State of Michigan and the nation, its leadership has determined that taking steps toward hiring a more diverse workforce is a necessary step to get there. In a recent media release that HCMA states that it “understands that […]
Posted inVoices
OPINION: Give thanks, but don’t celebrate myths this Thanksgiving
Mom’s green bean casserole, buttery mashed potatoes, sweet yams and pumpkin pie. Many families will gather around a turkey today to celebrate Thanksgiving, with the perception of love and unity between Indigenous Peoples and white settlers in the U.S. But the history of the holiday is one rooted in genocide, where colonizers murdered local Indigenous […]
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ASK PLANET DETROIT: How do I start a garden on a vacant lot?
Dear Planet Detroit, I’m interested in starting a vegetable and flower garden on several lots in the city. Right now, it’s grass, I want sunflowers and vegetables. I wouldn’t even mind if someone else wanted to plant on the property. Do you have any advice for me? Sincerely, In Search of a Garden Dear In […]
Posted inCommunity
SPONSORED CONTENT: Five takeaways from the Sustainable Detroit Forum
The fourth annual Sustainable Detroit Forum event was held on November 18th online with more than 100 people in attendance. The panel discussion, “Intersections of community development, environmental justice, and small businesses in Detroit,” was moderated by Joel Howrani Heeres, director of the City of Detroit Office of Sustainability. On the panel was Jamesa Johnson-Greer, […]