Boston Green Action members frequently author articles on a range of issues pertaining to climate action. We proudly present some of our notable perspectives, along with research findings that we champion.
In a July 2 report for Nieman Reports, Suzannah Evans Comfort and Jill Hopke point to an alarming trend in quality reporting on climate change. While the planet is indicating deeper crisis daily, the news seems to looking away. One report cites a 38% reduction in climate coverage by the media world, with a 35% decrease in climate-related airtime on the major US broadcast channels.
A new study led by Boston University physiological ecologist Nathan Phillips reports a new level of pollution inside homes heated by natural gas. The gas contains pollutants including benzene, a known carcinogen, raising concerns that residents are breathing in small quantities of toxins around the clock.
According to an April 22nd report by Joe Burns for Facilities Dive, “Boston and the state of Massachusetts are trying to boost their energy infrastructure through financing programs, laws and executive orders.” Last May, Governor Maura Healey proposed the Energy Affordability, Independence & Innovation Act to provide financing to reduce the upfront costs of geothermal projects, which are significantly more affordable to operate once built, per the release.
Boston University researchers are partnering with the City of Boston to replace gas stoves with electric induction alternatives and determine the impact on air quality.
International Energy Agency (IEA) has released its updated Methane Tracker: “Around the world, many countries have made reductions in methane emissions a policy priority as part of their efforts to limit near-term global warming, enhance energy security, and improve air quality. The energy sector—including oil, natural gas, coal and bioenergy—accounts for around 40% of methane emissions from human activity and has some of the best opportunities to cut these emissions.”
An ENREAST report from last April highlights the progress that Massachusetts and New York are making in allowing regulated utilities to develop geothermal energy network pilot projects. The goal: “utility-scale clean energy delivery.”
