The hottest Environmental Issues Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Climate & Environment Topics

Sunblock

Doomberg • 11128 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. California's energy system is struggling because it has shifted away from reliable sources like nuclear and natural gas in favor of solar power. This change has made it harder to manage the electricity supply effectively.
  2. A major fire at California's large battery storage facility caused serious environmental damage and highlighted the risks of relying too much on green energy solutions without a solid backup plan.
  3. The government's new bill may worsen California's energy crisis by cutting tax credits for green energy projects, which could halt new installations and leave the state without enough power during peak demand times.

Plenty to Spare

Doomberg • 7585 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Global demand for oil, natural gas, and coal reached all-time highs in 2024, showing that despite efforts for renewable energy, fossil fuels still dominate our energy supply. This suggests that we still rely heavily on traditional energy sources.
  2. Russia's natural gas production has rebounded, making it a significant player in the global market. Much of this gas is consumed domestically, but there’s still a portion available for export.
  3. Europe is planning to ban Russian gas imports by 2027, which raises questions about how they will meet their energy needs without it. This situation will likely change global energy markets for years to come.

Trump is shockingly dumb about (electric) power

The Crucial Years • 2541 implied HN points • 19 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Electric bills are becoming a key issue in politics, as rising costs may affect how people vote. Many believe that Trump's energy policies are making these costs worse.
  2. The shift towards clean energy sources like solar and wind is being hindered by political decisions, particularly under Trump's administration. Many countries are successfully moving to cheaper, renewable energy solutions, while the U.S. is lagging behind.
  3. Democrats have a chance to make the rising electricity costs a campaign issue against Trump. They need to effectively communicate how his policies are impacting household bills and advocate for cleaner, more affordable energy.

How the Grift Works

The Crucial Years • 2531 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. The government is trying to make it harder to address climate change, claiming that greenhouse gases aren't dangerous anymore. This is similar to old tricks used by con artists, relying on speed and distractions.
  2. Despite the push to sell more fossil fuels to Europe, there's a lot of skepticism. Europe is moving towards renewable energy, and the U.S. can't possibly meet the unrealistic sales targets being set.
  3. Legal challenges are expected against the government's plans to ignore climate risks. Many people are aware that the science shows climate change is real, and they are ready to fight back.

Whiplash

Doomberg • 6597 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Trump has signed many executive orders that impact energy policy, and there are concerns about the long-term effects on the industry. Any decisions made now could shape the future of energy production for years.
  2. The recent orders have put a halt to wind energy leasing in many areas offshore, which might affect the growth of the wind sector. This means companies focused on wind energy could struggle moving forward.
  3. The orders also focus on exploring resources in Alaska, which may become a major point of attention. If successful, this could show how effective Trump's new policies could be for energy resources.
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Power Down Blunder

Doomberg • 7469 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues
  1. Australia has great potential for renewable energy like solar and wind, but things aren't going as smoothly as planned.
  2. As they keep adding more renewable energy sources, the country is facing rising electricity prices and shortages, especially during peak demand times.
  3. The government is now asking people to cut back on using appliances like dishwashers to help the struggling energy grid.

Notes on Camp

The Crucial Years • 2321 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Sending kids to camp is a big step for both children and parents. It teaches kids independence and gives parents a chance to feel proud when their kids adapt well.
  2. Well-run camps and societies both balance opportunities with risks. We need to manage these risks wisely to keep everyone safe and thriving.
  3. Current government actions often prioritize wealth for a few over safety for many, particularly in handling climate risks. It's important to hold leaders accountable for their choices.

When Is The Collapse Going to Start?

OK Doomer • 2301 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues
  1. Many people are wondering when the collapse will start, but the reality is that it has already begun in various forms. These can be seen in our climate and political systems worsening over time.
  2. Collapse is subjective and affects everyone differently depending on their circumstances, such as where they live and their financial situation. Personal experiences may signify a collapse even if they seem minor to others.
  3. Despite the many signs of decline, many people prefer to ignore the reality. This leads to a false sense of normalcy, where individuals believe things will return to how they were, even as conditions worsen around them.

On Democracy, Liberated Energy, and the Perfect Moment

The Crucial Years • 1863 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Now is a key moment to push back against authoritarianism. Protests like No Kings Day give people a chance to stand up for their rights peacefully.
  2. Clean energy is essential for reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which often lead to concentrated wealth and power. Harnessing solar energy can be a more democratic and accessible option.
  3. Big corporations are pulling back on climate promises, highlighting that we can't rely on them to save the planet. Communities need to take action and build sustainable solutions themselves.

Dan Crenshaw: Heartbreak and Heroism in Hill Country, Texas

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1154 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Flash floods can happen suddenly, especially after heavy rain, even in areas where they are rare. It's important to stay aware and prepared for emergencies.
  2. The community came together during the flood crisis, showing bravery and support for each other. Neighbors helped neighbors, which highlights the strong connection among people.
  3. The tragedy affected many families, with significant loss of life, including children. It's a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of natural disasters.

The Oil War

Diane Francis • 1099 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Illicit oil trade is booming, with many ships smuggling oil from Russia and Iran. This trade helps fund wars and poses environmental risks due to poorly maintained vessels.
  2. China and India play a major role in supporting Russia's economy by importing significant amounts of oil. This trend allows them to profit while indirectly supporting Russia's actions in Ukraine.
  3. Despite existing sanctions, the criminal activity in the oil sector continues to thrive. It's important for international authorities to step up enforcement and regulation to stop this dangerous trade.

All things go to eleven

Disaffected Newsletter • 2318 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues
  1. We often can't talk about problems without turning them into a battle between good and evil. This makes it hard to have simple conversations about real issues.
  2. Many environmental discussions are charged with strong emotions, causing people to avoid or misinterpret the topic. We need to separate our concerns from political identities.
  3. Practical issues like plastic waste and poor urban planning are important but rarely talked about because they get caught up in political arguments. We should discuss these without taking sides.

Biden's climate f*ckboy behavior

HEATED • 2024 implied HN points • 31 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Biden may have not necessarily lost a legal challenge if he rejected the Willow project.
  2. Even if Biden lost a legal challenge, he could have still prevented the project from moving forward.
  3. There was no need for Biden to approve Willow in order to implement new regulations protecting the Arctic.

Radicals Have Burned California Before

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2327 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. California's progressive policies have often led to unintended disasters, like wildfires. Good intentions don't always result in good outcomes.
  2. Environmental activism can sometimes slow down crucial safety projects. In this case, protecting a rare plant delayed fire safety improvements.
  3. The struggle between environmental concerns and safety measures is an ongoing issue. It's important to find a balance to prevent disasters while protecting nature.

Will Trump Keep Public Lands in Public Hands?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 899 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Public lands should stay accessible to everyone, regardless of wealth. This access allows people to enjoy nature and various activities.
  2. Trump previously promised not to sell off public lands, which was surprising for a real estate developer. It's important to see if he keeps this promise in his next term.
  3. While logging public lands can help manage forests, selling them off is a serious issue. Once sold, these lands will be developed and unavailable for future public enjoyment.

MSNBC, Sunday Morning News Shows Completely Ignore Ohio Chemical Derailment

The Column • 1100 implied HN points • 13 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. MSNBC and other Sunday morning news shows are not covering the Ohio chemical train derailment from a political standpoint
  2. The corporate media has covered the derailment as straight news, but with little critique of government and railway claims
  3. The lack of political scrutiny on the Ohio derailment highlights a trend of de-politicization in media coverage of environmental disasters

Top Links 792 Ripping up books. Turkey's economy stumbling. How heritage is outrunning net zero in industrial Germany and cod evolved to avoid the nets.

Chartbook • 515 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🌍 World Politics Environmental Issues
  1. There are significant issues with Turkey's economy, and it may be struggling right now. It's important to pay attention to how this could affect the country and its people.
  2. Germany is trying to balance its industrial heritage with new environmental goals. This shows how complex it can be to transition to greener practices while preserving tradition.
  3. Some fish, like cod, have adapted to avoid fishing nets. This highlights how species can change over time to survive in a changing world.

Tough Love for California

In My Tribe • 1306 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. California will likely need financial help from the federal government due to massive damages from wildfires. This support should come with conditions to improve how the state manages its resources.
  2. The state's public employee salaries are much higher than the national average. A bailout should come with rules to give the federal government more control over salary adjustments and workforce management.
  3. California struggles with water and forest management. New laws should allow federal agencies to build necessary water infrastructure and implement better forest practices to prevent wildfires.

Why Everywhere We Look, There We Are

Everything Is Amazing • 1547 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Environmental Issues
  1. People often see faces and familiar patterns in everyday things. This strange trick our brain plays is called pareidolia, and it shows how we connect what we see to ourselves.
  2. Our attachment to objects, like clothing or old gear, can be sentimental. This affection helps us care more about the environment and encourages us to repair instead of throw away.
  3. Understanding our cognitive biases, like pareidolia, can help us be more curious and appreciate the world around us. If we learn to see ourselves in everything, we might treat it all with more care.

Top Links 750 The foreign trade agenda of US states. Namibia's green dreams. ‘Sex, Drugs and Zombies’ & Brood XIV

Chartbook • 500 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Different U.S. states have their own foreign trade goals that can impact the economy. It's important to understand how each state's agenda plays a part in the bigger picture.
  2. Namibia is working towards being more environmentally friendly, showing that even developing nations can have green ambitions. This highlights the global push for sustainability.
  3. There are various interesting cultural pieces out there, including discussions about sex, drugs, and pop culture elements like zombies. These topics can reflect different aspects of society and what's trending.

My new book — Clearing the Air — is coming out in September!

Sustainability by numbers • 369 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues
  1. A new book titled 'Clearing the Air' will be released in September, focusing on climate change solutions through 50 questions and answers. It's designed to help readers understand how to tackle environmental issues more clearly.
  2. The book aims to provide straightforward answers to common doubts and questions about climate change, such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and more.
  3. An audiobook version will be available, read by the author, allowing listeners to engage with the material in a personal way.

THB Insider #13

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 745 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues
  1. The post provides updates on several important topics like the Social Cost of Carbon and Billion Dollar Disasters. It's a good way to keep up with what's been happening recently.
  2. There are also new updates on climate scenarios and influential figures in climate science, like Michael Mann. This information can help you understand changing perspectives in climate science.
  3. Finally, there's mention of Colorado football which shows a variety of topics being discussed. This keeps the content diverse and engaging for readers.

Environ-Mental!

Disaffected Newsletter • 719 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
😂 Humor Environmental Issues
  1. Some extreme environmentalists want to take drastic actions, like shutting down airports and banning wood burning, claiming it's for future generations.
  2. There is a mention of frustrations in everyday scenarios, like dealing with angry employees at Dunkin Donuts.
  3. Traffic behavior is highlighted, showing how many drivers ignore rules, leading to chaos on the roads.

Top Links 637 America's trade deficits. The robots are coming. Israeli defense exports & Khian Sea - the toxic ship.

Chartbook • 615 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
💰 Finance Environmental Issues
  1. America has a significant trade deficit, which means it imports more than it exports. This impacts the economy and job market.
  2. The rise of robots and automation is changing the workforce. Many fear job losses, but there are also opportunities for new types of work.
  3. Israel is a major player in defense exports, showing how countries invest in their military technology.

Energy policy, politics, facts and narratives

Jérôme à Paris • 461 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. People often join groups that share their ideas, which can limit their understanding of complex topics like energy policy. It's easy to get stuck in a mindset when everyone around you thinks the same way.
  2. The energy sector is changing rapidly, leading to fear and uncertainty. Many are used to traditional energy sources and don't know how to adapt to newer options like electric vehicles, which can create hesitation.
  3. The ongoing debate about energy often reflects larger issues of fairness and efficiency. Some believe new solutions will benefit everyone, while others worry about being left behind or losing out.

⤴⤵ Up Wing/Down Wing #22

Faster, Please! • 639 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. A semiconductor plant in Arizona is performing better than one in Taiwan, which is good news for US manufacturing growth. This means the US is making strides in producing important tech products domestically.
  2. Construction productivity is struggling, showing negative growth for decades. Long approval times and strict regulations are hurting the industry's efficiency.
  3. More Democrats are starting to support nuclear power as a cleaner energy source. This shift is important for addressing climate change and meeting energy demands, as even major tech companies back nuclear projects.

Top Links 590 The mad dash for Biden's climate dollars. How India and China's income distribution compare. The panzootic & getting beyond Confucius.

Chartbook • 371 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Companies are hurriedly completing the paperwork to get loans from the Department of Energy for climate initiatives. They want to secure funding before deadlines.
  2. There is a comparison between income distribution in India and China, indicating different economic conditions and social structures in these countries.
  3. The concept of a 'panzootic' is discussed, which refers to widespread disease among animal species, and explores ideas beyond traditional Confucian thought.

a crisis of competence

bad cattitude • 332 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Society seems to have lost its ability to think critically and evaluate leaders' competence. Many people now accept poor decisions without question.
  2. There is a growing trend of placing individuals in important roles based on factors like identity instead of skills or experience, which leads to ineffective systems.
  3. People are becoming demoralized and feel helpless, believing there's nothing they can do to change the issues around them.

Cold water on Coldwater Creek

Gordian Knot News • 117 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Coldwater Creek was contaminated by uranium waste, leading to concerns about cancer rates among nearby residents. However, past studies didn't find a significant increase in cancer rates compared to other areas.
  2. The CDC studied exposure risks from different radioactive materials and suggested that the main concern was radium, which can cause bone cancer. They found that the potential risks were lower than initially feared.
  3. Harvard's recent study claimed to link cancer rates with the creek's contamination but confused types of radiation-related cancers. Their findings were criticized for not accurately reflecting the real risks of the contaminants.

Fortress North America

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 20 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Germany's move to stop using nuclear power made it depend on Russian energy, highlighting how important energy independence is for countries. Now, many are reconsidering their energy policies.
  2. North America could work better together to manage its energy resources and reduce reliance on OPEC countries. By teaming up, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico could supply energy to themselves and help allies like Europe.
  3. Fossil fuels will still be necessary for a long time, and using a mix of energy sources, including renewables and nuclear, is realistic. Proper planning can help reduce emissions while still meeting energy needs.

Will The Big Ugly Bill Crush Your Solarpunk Dreams?

OK Doomer • 111 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. The new bill in Congress is set to end a significant tax credit for rooftop solar, making it harder for people to invest in solar energy. Without this incentive, fewer homeowners might choose to install solar panels.
  2. Rising energy bills and energy dependence on utility companies are leaving people with tough choices about their energy future. Some may feel like giving up and looking for alternative ways to live off the grid.
  3. Even those who oppose green energy might be affected, as the attack on renewable energy could disrupt the power grid. This situation highlights the importance of paying attention to energy policies for everyone.

Top Links 542 King coal. How Europe is still buying Russian gas. Big money is not speaking up for Harris & the Empresa de China.

Chartbook • 329 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Environmental Issues
  1. Europe is still buying Russian gas despite the ongoing conflict, showing a complicated relationship with energy sources.
  2. Global coal consumption has hit record highs due to rising electricity demand around the world.
  3. There seems to be a lack of support from major investors for politicians like Harris and companies like Empresa de China.

Trapped Among the Root Causes

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 610 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Environmental Issues
  1. Looking for root causes can be attractive, but sometimes it's better to focus on finding and implementing imperfect, temporary solutions instead of getting lost in the complexity of the 'true cause' of a problem.
  2. In complex systems like the environment or human societies, the idea of a single 'root cause' can be elusive, and efforts to dig deep might lead to unintended consequences due to interconnected issues.
  3. Patching things can be a practical approach, especially in evolving systems like nature and societies. Embracing the continuous cycle of problem-solving and expecting new challenges and solutions may be more sustainable than aiming for one perfect fix.

Sorrow

Situation Normal • 184 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues
  1. Los Angeles is facing multiple wildfires, causing significant destruction and uncertainty for many residents. People are worried about their homes and the loss of memories associated with them.
  2. The situation is overwhelming for those living in the area, with constant alerts and the threat of evacuation on their minds. It's hard for them to find peace in such a chaotic environment.
  3. Many people need help due to the fires, and there are charities available that can assist in the recovery process. Supporting these organizations can make a real difference for those affected.

My book is published today!

Sustainability by numbers • 545 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues
  1. The book offers a data-driven look at environmental problems and how to solve them with a cautiously hopeful tone.
  2. It promotes urgent optimism in tackling solvable environmental issues relying on focused human effort and data-driven solutions.
  3. The book covers various environmental challenges and highlights the interconnected solutions to address them.

DOJ plows ahead: supporting farmers in Deere anti-trust lawsuit - Week in Repair

Fight to Repair • 59 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. The US Department of Justice is supporting farmers in an anti-trust lawsuit against Deere, highlighting the importance of right to repair and fighting against repair restrictions imposed by companies.
  2. There is a growing movement among farmers to use older machines and explore open-source tractor software to ensure they can repair their equipment themselves, especially in rural areas where repair options are limited.
  3. Legislation is being introduced in multiple states, including Colorado, to force manufacturers to provide tools and resources necessary for farmers to make their own repairs, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address repair issues in farming equipment.

Why Are Rat Populations In Big Cities Really Exploding? Leash Laws!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 36 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Environmental Issues
  1. Keeping un-neutered and un-spayed pets roaming in cities may help control rat populations. Allowing animals to do their natural job can help keep rodents in check.
  2. The rise of car culture in America has harmed pets and reduced their ability to manage rodent populations. By prioritizing cars, many cities have made it unsafe for pets to do their jobs.
  3. Rats are often blamed for problems caused by humans. Historically, they have been wrongfully accused of spreading diseases due to human actions and messy situations.

Nero Newsom Fiddles...

Who is Robert Malone • 24 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues
  1. California is facing serious issues due to poor management decisions that aim to return the state to a less developed era. This has led to crises like fires and water shortages.
  2. Leaders like Gavin Newsom are criticized for neglecting essential services and infrastructure, all while prioritizing other countries over their own citizens' safety.
  3. There's concern that the political elite, educated in globalist programs, may be more loyal to organizations like the World Economic Forum than to the needs of their own country.