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Environment content

Designing for Durability in a Microbial World

This white paper introduces the concept of “biological wear and tear” as a previously overlooked factor in material durability. It explores how microorganisms interact with surfaces through adhesion, biofilm formation,…

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Due Diligence for Responsible Sand and Silicate...

This report examines global sand and silicate supply chains and the risks associated with their extraction, trade, and use. As the second most extracted resource after water, these materials are…

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Environmental Outlook on the Triple Planetary...

This OECD Environmental Outlook examines the “triple planetary crisis” of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution and how these interconnected challenges threaten ecosystems, economies, and human well-being. Using integrated modelling…

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Single-use Plastics in Colorado

Colorado continues to take meaningful steps to reduce plastic waste, focusing on how single-use items like bags, bottles, and foam containers impact the environment. The state’s Plastic Pollution Reduction Act…

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Data Center Energy Impacts and State Responses

As AI adoption accelerates, data centers are rapidly expanding and driving some of the fastest-growing electricity demands in the country. States are now grappling with rising power costs, grid strain,…

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Air Pollution Regulation in Colorado

Colorado’s approach to air pollution regulation blends federal Clean Air Act requirements with state-driven programs aimed at reducing harmful emissions and improving public health. The state continues to grapple with…

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Systemic Sanitation and Environmental Failures at...

This investigative white paper, published by New York Airport News, examines nationwide lapses in airport sanitation, environmental compliance, and contractor oversight. Using the November 2025 UPS cargo plane crash in…

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Drought, Deluge, and Data

Communities around the world are being pushed to rethink how they prepare for floods, droughts, and other extreme climate events. This report highlights real-world examples—from Texas to Jakarta—where governments and…

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Preventing Wildlife Rabies Saves Lives and Money

Rabies remains a deadly threat to people and animals, with wildlife accounting for over 90% of U.S. cases. USDA’s Wildlife Services leads large-scale oral rabies vaccine (ORV) programs, dropping millions…

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Research Needs for a Secure and Prosperous Arctic

The Arctic is emerging as both a strategic frontier and a rapidly changing environment, requiring research that strengthens U.S. security, communities, energy resilience, and economic stability. With Alaska’s vast natural…

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Texas Floods July 2025

In early July 2025, Tropical Storm Barry unleashed torrential rain across Central Texas, the Hill Country, and the Concho Valley, pushing rivers like the Guadalupe to major flood stage. Communities…

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Carbon Credits: Limited Federal Role in Voluntary...

The GAO examined the voluntary carbon market, where organizations buy credits to offset emissions, but found ongoing concerns about integrity and transparency. Studies show many credits may not represent real…

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Implementation Plan 2025-2026 for the Arctic...

The 2025–2026 Arctic Implementation Plan builds on the U.S. Arctic Research Plan, outlining near-term priorities that support resilient communities, sustainable resource management, and stronger research partnerships. It emphasizes collaboration with…

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Consumer Prices

Aging offshore oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of Mexico pose growing risks to safety, the environment, and taxpayers. This GAO report calls for stronger federal oversight and coordination…

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The U.S. Geological Survey National Streamgage...

In 2024, the U.S. Geological Survey operated over 12,000 streamgages to monitor surface water conditions across the country. These instruments collect river height and streamflow data—most of it updated in…

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