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21 articles with this tag

El Paso Matters•Jan 1

El Paso Experiences Its Third-Hottest Year on Record Amid Climate Change

In 2025, El Paso recorded its third-highest average annual temperature, continuing a trend of rising heat attributed to climate change. The average daily temperature has exceeded 69 degrees for three consecutive years, with nine of the eleven hottest years occurring since 2012. Notably, December 2025 was the warmest on record, with an average temperature of 55 degrees. The city set or tied 29 daily high temperature records, while no new low temperature records were established, highlighting the impact of carbon pollution on local climate patterns. El Paso's average temperature has increased by 5.4 degrees since 1970, making it one of the most affected cities in the U.S. by rising temperatures.

Weather el-paso environment

Federal Order to Keep Coal Plant Open Could Burden Ratepayers with Costs

The Trump administration has mandated the Craig Generating Station Unit 1 in Colorado to remain operational until the end of March 2024, despite being set for retirement. This decision, made by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, is expected to impose significant financial burdens on ratepayers, with estimates suggesting costs could exceed $85 million annually. Colorado officials, including Governor Jared Polis, argue that the plant is currently non-operational and would require costly repairs, asserting that the order serves ideological purposes rather than practical energy needs. The situation raises concerns about increased electricity prices for consumers in the region, as well as potential legal challenges from environmental groups.

Business environment regulations

New El Paso Wildlife Conservation Society Launched to Engage Community

Rick LoBello, a prominent conservation advocate in El Paso, has established the El Paso Wildlife Conservation Society to inspire local residents to take action in preserving wildlife and the environment. The group is designed to educate the community about conservation efforts and is free to join, making it accessible to everyone interested in making a difference. This initiative aims to foster a sense of community involvement and awareness regarding ecological issues that affect the region. Residents are encouraged to participate and contribute to conservation efforts in El Paso.

Community environment community

Tatiana Schlossberg, JFK's Granddaughter and Environmental Advocate, Passes Away at 35

Tatiana Schlossberg, known for her work as an environmental journalist and as the granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy, has died at the age of 35. Her family announced her passing following a battle with acute myeloid leukemia, diagnosed shortly after she gave birth to her daughter in May 2024. In a poignant essay published in The New Yorker, Schlossberg described her shock at the diagnosis, having felt healthy just days before. She leaves behind her husband, George Moran, and two young children. Schlossberg was an influential voice in climate journalism, authoring the book 'Inconspicuous Consumption' and contributing to major publications like The New York Times.

Community environment cancer

Tatiana Schlossberg, JFK's Granddaughter, Passes Away at 35 After Cancer Battle

Tatiana Schlossberg, the granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy and daughter of Caroline Kennedy, has died at the age of 35 after a courageous fight against a rare mutation of acute myeloid leukemia. Diagnosed in May 2024 shortly after giving birth to her second child, she shared her emotional journey in an essay last month, expressing deep concerns about her children's memories of her. The JFK Library Foundation confirmed her passing, highlighting her lasting impact on those who knew her. Schlossberg is survived by her husband, two young children, and her parents, Caroline Kennedy and Ed Schlossberg.

Community environment cancer

Tatiana Schlossberg, Environmental Journalist and JFK's Granddaughter, Passes Away at 35

Tatiana Schlossberg, a noted environmental journalist and the granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy, has died at the age of 35. Her family shared the news on social media, revealing that she passed away on Tuesday morning, just a month after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis. Schlossberg was known for her commitment to environmental issues and her impactful writing. Her death is a significant loss to both her family and the journalism community, as she was seen as a rising voice in environmental advocacy.

Community environment cancer

Tatiana Schlossberg, JFK's Granddaughter and Environmental Journalist, Passes Away at 35

Tatiana Schlossberg, the granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy and a noted environmental journalist, has died at the age of 35. Her family announced her passing on social media, expressing their deep sorrow. Schlossberg had recently revealed her terminal leukemia diagnosis in an essay published in The New Yorker, which came shortly after the birth of her daughter in May 2024. She was known for her work on climate change and science, contributing to The New York Times. Schlossberg is survived by her husband, George Moran, and their two children, leaving a legacy of environmental advocacy and journalism.

Community environment cancer

Tatiana Schlossberg, JFK's Granddaughter and Environmental Advocate, Passes Away at 35

Tatiana Schlossberg, an environmental journalist and granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy, has died at the age of 35 after a battle with acute myeloid leukemia. Her family confirmed her passing, which occurred just a month after she publicly shared her diagnosis, detailing the unexpected nature of her illness shortly after giving birth to her daughter in May 2024. Schlossberg was known for her work at The New York Times and her book on environmental issues, 'Inconspicuous Consumption.' She is survived by her husband, two young children, and her family, who have faced numerous tragedies over the years, including the assassinations of her grandfather and great-uncle. Her reflections on healthcare and family legacy resonate deeply amid her untimely death.

Community environment cancer

El Paso Matters•Dec 30

El Paso Reflects on a Year of Change and Resilience in 2025

The year 2025 in El Paso was marked by significant events that shaped the community's landscape, including the judicial outcomes of the 2019 Walmart mass shooting, where the shooter received a life sentence instead of the death penalty. Immigration issues remained a pressing concern, with increased arrests and the opening of a new ICE detention facility at Fort Bliss, impacting local immigrant families. The region also faced challenges related to rapid growth, particularly with the introduction of large data centers that raised questions about resource management in a desert environment. Additionally, educational institutions dealt with layoffs and leadership changes that will influence future classroom dynamics. Amid these challenges, stories of local perseverance and cultural pride emerged, highlighting the community's resilience.

Community environment community

Electric Vehicle Sales Decline: What It Means for El Paso Residents

Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) have significantly dropped, with a 50% decrease in new EV sales and a 20% decline in used EV sales nationwide in October. This downturn follows the end of federal tax credits on September 30, which previously incentivized purchases. Despite this setback, analysts believe that the long-term trend for EV adoption remains positive, supported by decreasing battery prices and a growing selection of affordable models expected by 2026. However, the market faces challenges, including the removal of manufacturing incentives and potential tariff impacts. Residents should stay informed about state-level incentives, as 17 states currently offer rebates to encourage EV purchases.

Business environment electric-vehicles

Las Cruces Receives Statewide Award for Wastewater Facility Management

The City of Las Cruces Utilities has been recognized for its exemplary maintenance of the East Mesa Water Reclamation Facility, earning the New Mexico Water and Wastewater Association's Good Housekeeping Award for 2026. This accolade highlights the facility's effective management practices and commitment to environmental standards. Such recognition is significant for regional water management efforts and sets a benchmark for other facilities in the state. Residents and stakeholders can take pride in this achievement as it reflects the city's dedication to sustainable water practices.

Community environment las-cruces

Business Leaders Urge Preservation of Cargo Crossings at Bridge of the Americas

The Mexican Association of Importers and Exporters (ANIERM) has filed a petition with the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) to oppose the U.S. General Services Administration's (GSA) plan to close commercial cargo crossings at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA). This closure, set to begin next year, could redirect 190,000 annual cargo shipments to less equipped crossings, worsening pollution in Juárez. ANIERM's Chihuahua delegate, Marcelo Vázquez Tovar, emphasized the need for environmental studies to assess the impacts on local communities. The organization is currently awaiting feedback from the CEC and believes the project could harm both the economy and the environment of El Paso and Juárez.

Business border environment

Avoiding Landfills: How to Responsibly Handle Holiday Gift Returns

During the holiday season, many gifts are returned, but approximately one-third of these returns end up in landfills instead of being resold. This is often due to the costs associated with processing returns, making it unfeasible for retailers to restock certain items. As consumers, it's important to be aware of this issue and consider sustainable options when returning gifts. By choosing to donate or recycle items instead of returning them, residents can help reduce waste and promote a more environmentally friendly approach during the holiday season.

Community environment holiday

Understanding Holiday Gift Returns: What Happens and How to Help

During the holiday season, about one-third of returned gifts end up in landfills instead of being resold or reused. This issue arises because many retailers find it economically unfeasible to process and resell returned items, leading to significant waste. As consumers, it's important to be aware of this trend and consider alternatives such as donating unwanted gifts or purchasing from companies that prioritize sustainability. By making informed choices, residents can contribute to reducing waste during and after the holiday season.

Community environment holiday

Exploring the Safety of Electric Fireplaces for El Paso Homes

Electric fireplaces have gained popularity in El Paso as a convenient and user-friendly option compared to traditional wood-burning fireplaces. As they become a common choice for local residents, understanding their safety features and potential risks is crucial. Electric models eliminate the need for wood storage and produce no emissions, making them an environmentally friendly alternative. However, it's important for homeowners to ensure proper installation and maintenance to avoid hazards such as overheating or electrical malfunctions. Residents are encouraged to consult with local experts to assess the suitability of electric fireplaces for their homes.

Community environment safety

Impact of Climate Change on Holiday Animals: Reindeer and Armadillos Adapt

This holiday season highlights the significant effects of climate change on wildlife, particularly reindeer and armadillos. Research indicates that reindeer populations have plummeted by 40% globally over the past 30 years, with projections suggesting a further decline of up to 58% by 2100 due to global warming. Meanwhile, armadillos, once confined to the southwestern U.S., are now being spotted as far north as Iowa, adapting to warmer climates. The findings underscore the interconnectedness of species and their environments, emphasizing the importance of wildlife in combating climate change. This information is crucial for understanding how changing temperatures affect biodiversity and ecosystems.

Community environment holiday

Climate Change Impacts Holiday Animals: Reindeer Decline and Armadillo Expansion

This holiday season is marked by unseasonably warm weather across the U.S., affecting various animal species traditionally associated with winter festivities. Notably, the global reindeer population has plummeted by 40% over the last 30 years, with projections indicating a potential 58% decline by 2100, which could exacerbate climate change effects. Meanwhile, the nine-banded armadillo, once confined to the Southwest, is expanding its range northward, now being spotted in states like Iowa and Indiana. These changes highlight the broader impacts of climate change on wildlife and ecosystems, emphasizing the need for awareness and action regarding environmental conservation.

Community environment wildlife

Small Land Transfer Bill Raises Big Concerns Over Federal Land Management

The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is considering the Brian Head Town Land Conveyance Act, which proposes transferring 24 acres of the Dixie National Forest to the small Utah town of Brian Head at no cost. This bill, introduced by Senators Mike Lee and John Curtis, is controversial as it bypasses typical federal land transfer processes, including environmental reviews and public input. Critics argue that this could set a dangerous precedent for future land transfers, potentially allowing local governments to sell the land to private developers without specific usage requirements. The implications extend beyond Brian Head, raising concerns about the erosion of federal land protections and public access.

Politics environment policy

Environmental Concerns Raised Over New Border Buoys and Wall Plans

An environmentalist from South Texas has expressed serious concerns regarding the proposed installation of waterborne barriers and a new border wall along the Rio Grande. Elsa Hull, affiliated with the No Border Wall Coalition, argues that these structures will negatively impact local wildlife and disrupt the natural flow of the river. Hull, who owns land along the river in San Ygnacio, emphasizes the potential ecological damage that could arise from these developments. This issue is particularly relevant as it highlights the ongoing conflict between border security measures and environmental preservation.

Community border environment

Celebrating 50 Years of Monarch Butterfly Migration to Mexico

Every autumn, millions of monarch butterflies migrate to Michoacán, Mexico, to escape the cold. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the discovery of their hibernation sites by naturalists Catalina Aguado and Kenneth Brugger. Their journey, which began in 1975, revealed the butterflies' unique migration patterns and hibernation habits, crucial for their survival. The butterflies gather in the El Rosario sanctuary, where optimal conditions allow them to thrive from November to March. This migration not only holds ecological significance but also cultural importance, coinciding with Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations, as the Purépecha people viewed the butterflies as the souls of the departed.

Community environment migration

El Paso Matters•Dec 17

Efforts Unite El Paso and Juárez for Improved Air Quality

El Paso and Ciudad Juárez are collaborating to enhance air quality along the U.S.-Mexico border, driven by their shared economic and environmental challenges. The North American Development Bank (NADBank) is actively supporting this initiative through projects like the Air Quality Monitoring Fund, which has expanded Juárez's air-monitoring stations to five. This collaboration aims to provide real-time data for assessing air quality and planning interventions. Additionally, a pilot study on low-emission trucks is underway to reduce emissions in key trade corridors. These efforts underscore the importance of interagency coordination and local commitment to ensure a healthier environment for border residents.

Community border environment