Drought is a critical issue in California, with severe conditions affecting the state's large population. The innovative solution of solar-covered canals is being explored to address water scarcity and renewable energy goals. Project Nexus, a pilot program funded by the California Department of Water Resources, aims to demonstrate the benefits of solar panels over canals, including water conservation and renewable energy generation. The project draws inspiration from similar initiatives in India and has garnered interest from various stakeholders. While the potential benefits are significant, concerns about costs, environmental impact, and feasibility remain. The project is set to begin construction in early 2023, with completion expected in 2024.

Members of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, supported by Sea Shepherd, documented wild salmon inside fish farms in Clayoquot Sound, raising concerns about interbreeding and the spread of diseases like Piscine Orthoreovirus. The presence of sea lice on farmed fish, which infects and kills juvenile wild salmon, was also recorded. The situation has led to calls for the removal of fish farms to protect wild salmon populations. The article highlights the ongoing opposition to salmon farming, including a recent rally in Tofino and the efforts of various stakeholders to address the environmental impact of aquaculture.

President Trump's national emergency declaration has heightened tensions along the southern border, with most local residents opposing the border wall due to concerns over eminent domain, flooding, trade, tourism, and wildlife. Scientists warn of the wall's detrimental effects, prompting calls for alternative solutions. A coalition proposes the Mesquite Manifesto, leveraging the mesquite tree to foster sustainable development and cooperation between the US and Mexico. This approach aims to unite stakeholders and address economic issues without exacerbating divisiveness, suggesting technology and manpower as better solutions for illegal immigration.

The article discusses the critical issue of food waste and its impact on soil health and sustainability. It highlights that nearly 40 percent of food produced ends up in landfills, costing American consumers, businesses, and farms $218 billion annually. The piece underscores the importance of compost production in recovering nutrients for soil benefits and mentions ReFED, a collaboration of over 50 leaders committed to reducing food waste in the United States.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning to discard all romaine lettuce due to an E. coli outbreak affecting 32 people across 11 states. Despite the CDC's advice, the article suggests using organic veggie wash, specifically Vermont Soapworks' Produce Magic Fruit & Veggie Wash, to clean produce and avoid unnecessary waste. The article emphasizes the importance of washing produce with organic soap to remove contaminants and ensure health safety.

The article discusses the critical issue of food waste and its impact on soil health and food production. It highlights the benefits of composting as a solution to reduce food waste and improve soil quality, which is essential for sustainable agriculture. Various cities and companies in the U.S. have implemented composting programs, and the federal government has launched initiatives to address food waste. The article emphasizes the importance of education and innovation in promoting composting and reducing food waste, with examples of successful practices and partnerships.

The National Park Service has lifted a 6-year ban on the sale of plastic water bottles in national parks, a move criticized for its negative impact on wildlife and the environment. The ban, implemented in 2011, had significantly reduced plastic waste in parks like the Grand Canyon. Critics, including Sandy Bahr from the Sierra Club, argue that the rollback contradicts the Park Service's mission to protect natural resources. The new policy, effective immediately, is seen as a step backward, potentially increasing pollution and harming wildlife.

Minnesota's largest member-owned electric cooperative, Connexus Energy, has created a unique solar garden that doubles as a pollinator habitat, producing both energy and honey. The site features wildflowers and 15 beehives, managed by Bolton Bees, which is becoming a B Corp and has registered a trademark for Solar HoneyTM. The initiative has been praised for its environmental benefits, and similar projects are being considered in other states. A portion of the honey, named SolarWise Honey, will be distributed to solar garden subscribers and local community events.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is criticized for its track record of approving nearly all pipeline proposals over the past 30 years, with only two rejections. An investigation highlights FERC's close relationship with the energy industry, citing a significantly higher number of meetings with energy companies compared to environmental groups. Concerns are raised about the potential approval of three offshore LNG terminals off the coast of Brownsville, South Texas, which could threaten local ecosystems and public safety. The article suggests that FERC's history does not inspire confidence that it will prioritize environmental and public interests.

The article explores the complexities of the U.S. school system, focusing on the differences between public, private, charter, and magnet schools. It highlights the history, funding, and acceptance criteria of these educational institutions, with a particular emphasis on IDEA Public Schools, a Texas-based nonprofit. The article discusses the pros and cons of each system, noting that public schools offer a well-rounded education, while charter and magnet schools provide specialized programs and smaller class sizes. The piece underscores the importance of parental involvement and motivation in student success, as exemplified by IDEA's unique approach. Ultimately, it suggests that the best school choice depends on individual circumstances and thorough research.

The acquisition of Whole Foods by Amazon has highlighted issues such as the increase in shipping boxes and plastic packaging waste due to the rise of online shopping. The California Product Stewardship Council and Recology are discussing the environmental impact of this trend. Consumers are encouraged to demand more eco-friendly packaging from manufacturers, who currently opt for cheaper options and are not convinced of consumer interest in sustainability.

Roundup, produced by Monsanto, has faced significant criticism due to its toxic ingredient glyphosate. A new version of Roundup, formulated without glyphosate and using vinegar as the active substance, is now available in Austria. Dr. Helmut Burtscher from GLOBAL 2000 expresses cautious optimism about the new product but warns about potential toxic adjuvants. The article questions whether this new formulation is a genuine improvement or a marketing strategy by Monsanto to regain consumer trust.

U.S.-Australian Nexus eWater Inc. has developed a greywater recycling system that captures and reuses most household wastewater, significantly reducing water and energy consumption. Lancaster, California, aims to become America's first net-zero city by incorporating this technology into new residential constructions. KB Home has integrated the eWater Recycler into its demonstration homes, showcasing substantial savings in water and energy costs. The initiative is part of Lancaster's Better Built Home Program, incentivizing builders to adopt environmentally smart features. The eWater Recycler is currently available in KB Home demonstration homes in California, with plans to expand nationwide following recent certification.

Water availability amid ongoing droughts is a global concern. Soil conservation through composting is an effective method to retain water and nurture the land. Increasing organic matter in soil significantly enhances its water-holding capacity. Experts like Stephen Andrews and Bob Shaffer emphasize the benefits of compost, which can hold substantial amounts of water and improve soil health. The Marin Carbon Project, involving U.C. Berkeley and other collaborators, has demonstrated the effectiveness of compost in water retention and carbon sequestration. Successful applications at places like Alexander Vineyards show potential for large-scale implementation, highlighting the importance of innovative approaches to soil and water conservation.