Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has linked several extreme heat waves in 2025 to human-caused climate change, similar to findings from the prior year. This connection was established using a new rapid extreme weather event attribution system that compares current climate data to pre-industrial conditions. The system analyzes recorded greenhouse gas levels and human activities to determine the impact of climate change on the likelihood of extreme weather events. In reviewing 10 of the hottest heat waves from July and August, the system concluded that nine were made “much more likely” due to climate change.
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The Chinese containership Istanbul Bridge completed a historic 20-day voyage from China to the UK via the Arctic Northern Sea Route, a significantly shorter route than the traditional Suez Canal passage. This marked the first liner-type service connecting Asia and Europe through the polar region, operated by Sealegend, who call it the “China-Europe Arctic Express”. The vessel, loaded with thousands of containers, navigated the route independently and aims to reduce emissions, although environmental concerns persist regarding potential pollution. While this route remains niche, other companies are expanding Arctic operations, showcasing a growing interest in this alternative shipping lane.
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A recent report reveals that the Earth has crossed its first catastrophic tipping point with warm water coral reefs facing long-term decline due to greenhouse gas emissions. The report, produced by scientists and conservationists, also warns of other impending tipping points, including the Amazon’s dieback and the collapse of ice sheets. While some experts question the report’s claims about coral reefs, the consensus is that aggressive climate action and improved management are needed. Scientists emphasize the urgent need to stabilize global temperatures to retain warm-water reefs and mitigate the consequences of further tipping points.
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A powerful nor’easter brought heavy rain, high winds, and coastal flooding to the Northeast, leading to road closures, flight delays, and emergency declarations in New York and New Jersey. Simultaneously, the remnants of Typhoon Halong caused catastrophic flooding in western Alaska, particularly in coastal communities like Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, where homes were swept away and residents were potentially unaccounted for. Emergency responders were deployed to the affected areas in Alaska and the National Guard was activated in Delaware as officials issued evacuation orders and warned of rising floodwaters. Further south, along the coast, South Carolina also experienced widespread flooding and water rescues.
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US moves to cancel one of the world’s largest solar farms, and it’s hard not to feel a mix of bewilderment and frustration, isn’t it? The news certainly raises a lot of questions about the direction the country is heading in. When you consider the context, it feels like a direct hit to the future. This move, canceling a massive solar project, immediately brings up thoughts of China’s aggressive investment in renewable energy, a country building solar infrastructure at an astonishing rate. It makes you wonder if we’re willingly handing over the reins of the future.
Focusing on the economic realities, the immediate concern is what this means for jobs and investments.… Continue reading
A new global assessment reveals that over half of all bird species are experiencing population declines, largely due to habitat loss from deforestation and human development. The assessment, released before a biodiversity summit, shows a significant worsening of the biodiversity crisis, with a rise in declining bird populations compared to previous years. While conservation efforts have led to the recovery of species like the green sea turtle, Arctic seals face extinction due to the effects of climate change, specifically the loss of sea ice. Scientists emphasize the urgent need for governments to fulfill their commitments to protect nature and mitigate the effects of climate change.
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Renewable energy sources surpassed coal as the primary global electricity source for the first half of the year, driven by substantial growth in solar and wind power, according to Ember. While overall electricity demand continues to rise, the surge in renewables has met this demand, even slightly reducing coal and gas usage. However, a mixed global landscape exists, as developing nations, particularly China, lead the clean energy transition, whereas wealthier nations like the US and EU are increasingly reliant on fossil fuels. Solar power, the largest contributor to renewable growth, has experienced dramatic cost reductions, especially in lower-income countries. Consequently, China’s dominance in clean tech exports continues to grow, with electric vehicles and batteries now surpassing the value of solar panel exports.
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Northern Iran’s wetlands are experiencing an ecological collapse due to drought, rising temperatures, and upstream dam impacts, resulting in the absence of migratory birds. This crisis mirrors a broader water crisis across Iran, with shrinking rivers, depleted groundwater, and agricultural strain. The president has proposed relocating the capital, citing the vulnerability of Tehran, where water shortages are also intensifying. This environmental disaster, without systemic reforms, threatens economic growth, exacerbates migration pressures, and could lead to widespread humanitarian crises.
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Pope Leo XIV, who initially adopted a less confrontational approach, is now facing criticism from conservative factions in the US and MAGA supporters due to his stances on issues such as abortion, immigration, and climate change. This opposition intensified when Leo addressed plans to award Senator Dick Durbin and subsequently made comments questioning the “pro-life” label in relation to the death penalty and the treatment of immigrants. Furthermore, Leo’s participation in a climate conference and private meetings with LGBTQ advocates have drawn further disapproval, leading to accusations of him taking an anti-Trump stance. Despite hoping for a course correction from Pope Francis, many conservatives are disappointed, as Leo appears committed to avoiding culture wars and addressing complex issues with a consistent life ethic, which includes the protection of human dignity in all forms.
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The planet is rapidly changing due to climate change, yet the current president, Donald Trump, appears to be living in a past era, prioritizing fossil fuels and tariffs over green energy and global cooperation. His actions, such as rejecting climate science and supporting the oil industry, align with China’s advancements in green energy, potentially ceding economic and environmental leadership. Trump’s policies are also pushing the U.S. to the “planetary margins” and may lead to a historical disaster due to his disregard for the environment. Ultimately, Trump’s presidency is marked by a backward-looking vision that threatens the future of the country and the planet.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood