A recent University of Iowa study reports air quality statewide falls within federal cleanliness standards. Continue reading
Iowa’s Air Quality
Author: Jacklyn Even
White House Releases National Climate Assessment
A new assessment of US climate change shows how often each state has been affected by weather and climate events over the past 32 years that have resulted in more than $1 billion in damages. Iowa, which has struggled with flooding and tornadoes in recent years, has been hit with up to 25 events since 1980.
On the Radio: Freshwater Clam Research
This week’s On the Radio segment covers research being done at the University of Iowa that looks into the relationship between freshwater clams and excess nitrogen in rivers. Listen to the audio below, or continue reading for the transcript.
Climate change forum focuses on Iowa businesses’ contributions
Environmentally friendly actions are gaining ground with Iowa businesses, said Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie during a recent climate change forum.
Examples range from alternative energy utilization, to change in building design.
The cost for sustainable, green solutions is lower than ever, with rapidly expanding opportunities for return on investment, Cownie stated.
To read more about the forum and actions Iowans are taking, head over to the Des Moines Register.
Iowa Public Radio: Concerns Raised Over Exporting Liquified Natural Gas
Check out a new story on IPR’s website that goes over the exportation of natural gas, and the environmental concerns that have arisen.
On the Radio: Radon Testing Programs
This week’s On the Radio segment covers the issue of radon testing and it’s funding in both the state and federal levels. Listen to the audio below, or continue reading for the transcript.
Iowa schools aim to reduce food waste
The University of Iowa, Coe and Luther colleges will join the University of Northern Iowa in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s national initiative to reduce food waste.
Iowa, Coe and Luther were among nine universities that EPA said today will join its Food Recovery Challenge. The effort is aimed at encouraging businesses, organizations and institutions to actively participate in food waste prevention, surplus food donation, and food waste recycling activities.
On the Radio: Rootworm Resistance
This week’s On the Radio segment covers a western corn rootworm’s growing resistance to genetically modified corn. Listen to the audio below, or continue reading for the transcript.
Endangered butterflies in Iowa
According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, one-fourth of Iowa’s native butterflies are endangered, threatened, or are of special concern.
Head over to the Des Moines Register to read an excellent piece on our butterflies, and to find out what you can do to help.
Iowa Environmental Focus 