Environment stories in Boston

The Four Corners region is under flood warnings as heavy rainfall causes rivers to surge, leading to evacuations and a reported death. Residents are cautioned about potential sewage contamination in floodwaters.

A tree on Peters Hill in the Arnold Arboretum is showcasing vibrant fall colors, attracting attention from visitors. The area, known for its ginkgo trees, offers a picturesque setting for autumn foliage enthusiasts.

The head of the U.N. nuclear agency forecasts that nuclear power usage could more than triple by 2060, driven by the demand for reliable, carbon-free energy. Rafael Grossi highlights the growing importance of nuclear energy for global electricity and energy security amid geopolitical tensions.

As Halloween approaches, costume swaps are gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative to traditional costume shopping. These events help reduce waste and promote recycling, addressing the environmental concerns associated with single-use costumes.

The UN climate fund has provisionally allocated $20 million to aid Nepal's recovery from devastating floods that killed over 1,400 people. However, this amount falls significantly short of the estimated $4.7 billion required for comprehensive recovery and reconstruction efforts.

A significant increase in bear killings has been reported across the U.S. as drought conditions lead bears to raid human food sources. Wildlife officers are overwhelmed, with many states seeing record euthanizations of bears that pose threats to communities.

Researchers have identified the origin of a meteor that exploded over Cape Cod Bay on May 30, revealing it came from a distant region past Mars. The event, which caused a sonic boom, was captured by various sensors, providing insights into the meteor's composition and trajectory.

In Dominica, researchers from Project CETI are utilizing advanced technology to decode the communication of sperm whales, the largest predators on Earth. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance our understanding of interspecies communication.

A global assessment reveals that 96% of shallow-water coral reef systems are critically endangered, primarily due to climate change. Experts emphasize the need for urgent action to protect these vital ecosystems.

A video shared by The Real Boston Media shows a coyote exploring the roof of a building near the B-2 police station in Nubian Square, Roxbury. This unusual sighting highlights the presence of wildlife in urban areas.

In response to severe drought exacerbated by El Niño, the Honduran government is employing cloud seeding to induce rainfall over parched agricultural lands. This initiative aims to alleviate food insecurity affecting millions in Central America, where many families are struggling to survive.

The Glacier Garden in Lucerne unveils a new exhibit titled 'Treasury of Ice,' showcasing artifacts revealed by melting glaciers. As Switzerland experiences significant glacier loss due to climate change, the exhibit aims to raise awareness about the historical and environmental implications of this phenomenon.

A chemical tank explosion in Toledo, Ohio, has led to the evacuation of hundreds of residents due to a toxic leak. City officials are allowing the chemical to vent safely while monitoring the situation.

A new UN report indicates that the world is losing ground in the fight against climate change, with the US significantly contributing to increased emissions. Projections show a potential rise in global temperatures by 2.2 degrees Fahrenheit, exacerbated by the US's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and a rebound in coal power generation.

Aspen One has successfully preserved snow from last winter using insulated blankets, maintaining 85% of its volume despite record summer heat. This initiative aims to enhance early season snowmaking and reduce resource consumption amid climate challenges.

Cyprus, a 9-year-old male beluga whale, died at SeaWorld San Diego shortly after being relocated from a closed Canadian marine park. His death raises concerns about the health of other relocated marine animals and the conditions at Marineland.

During a recent fall migration weekend, over 1,000 birds were reported killed or injured due to collisions with buildings in the Chicago area. Advocates are calling for urgent measures to prevent such incidents, highlighting the city's role as a critical migratory route.

MIT researchers have revealed that Prochlorococcus, a key ocean microbe, can form biofilms, suggesting a significant role in carbon sequestration. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the organism's contribution to the ocean's biological pump.

On International Sloth Day, experts emphasize the importance of giving sloths space to thrive. Despite their lazy reputation, sloths have unique lifestyles that require conservation efforts.

Chelmsford's fall Town Meeting voted to ban nonrecyclable black plastic takeout containers, aiming to reduce recycling contamination. The ban, effective January 1, 2028, follows a survey showing strong support among local restaurants for switching to recyclable options.

Singapore has expanded its crackdown on Indonesian companies linked to forest fires, issuing preventive notices to three additional firms. This action aims to mitigate the transboundary haze affecting air quality in Singapore and neighboring regions.

Experts advocate for the introduction of beavers to enhance watershed resilience against drought. Their dams create vital habitats and improve water availability, crucial in the face of climate change.