Environment & Sustainability

Coverage of green innovations, and climate and environment issues and developments, especially those told by local voices and that offer solutions for community concerns.

The Giving Tree

A brief conversation about chestnut trees sends a hospice nurse down a rabbit hole that changes his life.

Latest in Environment & Sustainability
Michigan species at risk after federal rollbacks to endangered species protections, advocates say

The Trump administration narrowed Endangered Species Act definitions of "harm" and "take" by removing habitat degradation protections and limiting violations to intentional killing. Advocates warn this imperils 26 protected species in Michigan.

From Abandoned Slope to Natural Sanctuary: Sugar Loaf opens a vibrant new chapter

The former ski resort begins a new life with the unveiling of its brand-new Summit Trail and breathtaking 360-degree autumn views.

Centuries-old U.P. forest offers scientists a direct link to Michigan’s past

Lake Superior’s newly documented, centuries-old red pines feature gnarled "alligator bark" and historical fire scars that provide scientists and historians with a rare, direct link to indigenous land management practices.

Preserving the Great Outdoors: Millions targeted for state parks and public lands

Michigan’s state parks and public lands benefit from millions of dollars in the state's 2027 budget and millions of dollars in Trust Fund grants.

Michigan’s first-of-its-kind endowment rewrites the rules of forest conservation

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources partnered with the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation to establish a first-of-its-kind $670,000 stewardship endowment.

Black Rock Crossing’s 45-year commitment to affordable housing in Marquette

Black Rock Crossing in Marquette, a partnership between Woda Cooper Companies and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, addresses regional housing shortages with 50 affordable units.

Startup tackles food system inefficiency with direct farm-to-home delivery

Zeeland-based Locavana expands delivery, helping residents buy local food easily while increasing farmer earnings and improving access across West Michigan communities.

The Land Conservancy’s 50-year fight to save West Michigan’s natural areas

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan celebrates a half-century of working to keep nature nearby.

Top Flight: Houghton earns exclusive honors in Bird City Michigan program

Houghton has been recognized as the first "Bird City" in the U.P., achieving "High Flyer" status for its commitment to conservation and habitat protection.

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