The Tennessee River—one of the most biodiverse waterways in the United States and a defining feature of Knoxville’s landscape—is facing increasing ecological strain. Recent studies from the Tennessee RiverLine, University of Tennessee researchers, and the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute have all highlighted a troubling reality: pollution levels are rising, microplastics are accumulating, and Knoxville sits […]

Ukraine has long been celebrated as one of the most fertile regions on Earth. Its vast black soils — known locally as chernozem — helped the country become a global agricultural powerhouse, feeding hundreds of millions of people with wheat, sunflower oil, corn, and other staple crops. But as war continues to dominate headlines, a […]

Miami has long been celebrated for its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and global appeal. But in recent years the city’s environment has become front-and-center in a story far more urgent: one of sea-level rise, extreme heat, and climate-driven displacement. The city acknowledges it: on its official site the City of Miami states that “hurricanes, storm […]

Austin is known for its live-music scene and rapid tech-fueled growth—but beneath the skyline, a different story is unfolding: one of environmental strain, air quality alarms, and water scarcity. According to the city’s official “State of Our Environment” report, Austin’s air, water, trees and climate resilience are all under increased pressure. Austin Texas+1 The air […]