Environmental News

MPR News is your source for environment news from Minnesota and across the country.

Getting to Green: Minnesota’s energy future

Getting to Green is an MPR News series that shares stories about Minnesota’s clean energy transition, including what needs to be done to get there.

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Climate Cast

Listen to Climate Cast, the MPR News podcast all about our changing climate and its impact in Minnesota and worldwide.

North Dakota researchers find cost-effective way to extract rare-earth elements from coal
The U.S. is trying to reduce its dependence on China for the critical minerals and rare-earth elements needed to build everything from batteries for electric vehicles to military weapons systems. Part of the solution might come from a new extraction process developed in North Dakota.
Deer hunters in northern Minnesota lash out against wolves, DNR
Deer hunters are gathering in northern Minnesota this week to vent their frustrations about a lackluster hunting season and direct their ire at the animals they believe are to blame for a demise in their beloved tradition — the state’s thriving population of grey wolves.
St. John's student reflects on experience at COP28
A group of 20 students from the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University got to observe the heated discussions about climate change and fossil fuels at COP28. Finn Dolezal was a part of that group and he shared more about his time in Dubai.
U of M scientist advocates for developing countries at global climate summit
On the first day of the 28th United Nations climate change conference, known as COP28, global leaders agreed to operationalize the Loss and Damage Fund established at last year’s conference. Nfamara Dampha, a research scientist at the University of Minnesota is taking part in these discussions as a party delegate for the Gambia at COP28.
Protect, serve — and paddle? Ely tries North Woods pitch to recruit new cops
The city of Ely — the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area — has taken a creative approach to a statewide and national issue, by offering a $3,800 canoe package to help recruit and retain badly needed police officers.
Minnesota students get a front row seat to COP28 in Dubai
The Middle East is playing host to its second straight U.N. climate conference known as COP28, and students from Macalester College get a chance to be spectators to the meeting of world leaders.
Cougar caught on camera in Minneapolis; latest in string of sightings in Midwest
A home surveillance camera picked up an unexpected passerby in the Lowry Hill neighborhood of Minneapolis early Monday: a cougar striding calmly down the alley. It’s the latest in a series of sightings in the region in recent months.