Urbanization
More Visitors Plus Less Funding Could Equal a Troubled Future for Arizona State Parks
By Nicholas Gerbis | Monday, June 10, 2019
State parks benefit conservation and community health. But those benefits come at a cost — one that could soon grow prohibitively expensive, according to new research.
How a Sea Turtle Led an Arizona Company to Make Paper Straws
By Christina Estes | Monday, June 3, 2019
Following a viral video showing marine biologists pulling a plastic straw from a sea turtle's nose, the push to ban single-use plastics is paying off for a Gilbert company.
Buffelgrass Blues: Phoenix Campaign Kicks Off to Combat an Invasive Species
By Gabrielle Olivera and Dylan Simard | Monday, June 3, 2019
Buffelgrass, an invasive species from South Africa, is the focus of the eradication campaign. Buffelgrass makes excellent kindling for summer fires; it’s prone to burning fast and as hot as lava.
Colorado Testing Self-Driving Vehicles to Aid in Fighting Fires
By Ali Budner | Thursday, May 23, 2019
The autonomous ATVS could be equipped with a basket to haul equipment, a tank and hose for extra water, and advanced medical supplies.
Amid Recycling Crisis, Chinese Company Reinvigorates U.S. Paper Industry
By Heather van Blokland | Tuesday, May 14, 2019
For western cities like Phoenix, which have been wholly dependent on the U.S.-China relationship to fully process recycled paper, the trade war is not really about trade. It's about business.
Outdoor Enthusiasts Boost the Bottom Line for Cities, Counties across the West
By Luna Anna Archey | Tuesday, May 14, 2019
Do recreation amenities lure new residents, who might bring even more economic benefits, as well as tourists? One study breaks down the economic impact.
Critics Blast DHS Environmental Waivers that Clear Way for Border Wall
By Keerthi Vedantam | Thursday, April 25, 2019
The Department of Homeland Security said it will waive dozens of environmental, health and other laws to clear the way for construction on about 58 miles of border barriers.
Blasting Graffiti Helps Heal Nature but Exposes Generational Divide in the Great Outdoors
By Carissa Wigginton | Friday, April 19, 2019
Natural Restorations, an Arizona nonprofit that removes trash and graffiti from outdoor recreation and wilderness areas, works with veterans to help them heal as well.