Back

Director's Picks

Biden Administration Moves to Speed Up Permits for Clean Energy

Summary

The Biden administration released rules to expedite permits for clean energy projects, requiring federal agencies to consider climate impacts and prioritize environmentally beneficial projects. Changes to the National Environmental Policy Act aim to streamline approval processes for infrastructure projects while emphasizing environmental justice. The rules intend to facilitate the implementation of President Biden’s climate legislation by ensuring timely approvals for projects like transmission lines crucial for renewable energy expansion. Environmentalists applaud the provisions, emphasizing community engagement and resilience, while critics argue the regulations could hinder infrastructure development. Senator Joe Manchin opposes the rule, threatening to overturn it, potentially setting up a congressional vote under the Congressional Review Act.

discover more

April 17, 2025
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice

A Tulane study confirms long-standing claims that Black communities in Louisiana's "Cancer Alley" suffer disproportionate pollution while being excluded from both high...

April 11, 2025
Climate
Climate

A $378 million funding delay to LIHEAP after mass HHS layoffs threatens vital cooling aid for low-income Americans amid intensifying heat waves.

April 9, 2025
Environment & Climate Legislation
Environment & Climate Legislation

A federal appeals court ruled a lawsuit can proceed against St. James Parish, Louisiana, for alleged racist land-use policies...

April 9, 2025
Climate
Climate

Trump administration terminated NASA's contract supporting staff for the U.S. National Climate Assessment, potentially crippling its development...

April 9, 2025

President Trump rescinded federal flood standards requiring climate-resilient rebuilding, raising concerns that taxpayer-funded infrastructure...

April 6, 2025

The Trump administration plans to close the Community Relations Service, a Justice Department office created in 1964 to mediate racial tensions, sparking concerns...

April 5, 2025

The USDA resumed clean energy grants but encouraged recipients to strip diversity and climate goals, raising concerns about political interference and uncertainty over funding...

April 4, 2025
Civil Rights & Human Rights
Civil Rights & Human Rights

The article reflects on Dr. King’s enduring legacy, urging continued resistance against systemic oppression through community building, political courage, and cultural...

April 3, 2025

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designated 483 census tracts as Community Disaster Resilience Zones (CDRZs).

April 2, 2025
Climate Change
Climate Change

The Trump administration is halting federal support for climate-friendly transit projects in Democratic-led states, threatening funding...

March 31, 2025
Food & Water Justice
Food & Water Justice

A $1 billion groundwater pipeline project to supply booming Central Texas cities has ignited a legal battle over aquifer rights, exposing the limits...

February 28, 2025
Economic Justice
Economic Justice

Climate disasters cost U.S. farmers over $20 billion in 2024, yet most federal aid favors large commodity producers...

March 19, 2025
Climate Change
Climate Change

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) stresses that low-carbon farming is essential for Northern Ireland’s climate goals.

March 19, 2025

The UN's World Meteorological Organization reports that the past decade was the hottest on record, with 2024 surpassing the 1.5°C warming limit.

March 17, 2025
Environment & Climate Legislation
Environment & Climate Legislation

Trump’s vow to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act, some Republicans and business leaders back its clean energy tax credits...