Environment
All articles tagged "Environment"
Initiative to Divert Clean Energy Funds to Cops Moves Ahead Under Constrained Timeline
A judge ruled largely in favor of the police union-backed initiative, but its future remains unclear.
A judge ruled largely in favor of the police union-backed initiative, but its future remains unclear.
Oregon’s Wildlife is at Risk. Increasing the State’s Lodging Tax Could Help
A bill to raise Oregon’s lodging tax by 1.25 percent to benefit threatened animal species passed the House and now awaits a Senate vote.
A bill to raise Oregon’s lodging tax by 1.25 percent to benefit threatened animal species passed the House and now awaits a Senate vote.
Amid Grim Outlook for National Climate Investments, Portland’s Clean Energy Fund Doles Out Nearly $64 Million
PCEF awarded grants to 59 local nonprofits for climate projects. The news comes as the well-endowed program is at risk of being tapped for other city priorities.
PCEF awarded grants to 59 local nonprofits for climate projects. The news comes as the well-endowed program is at risk of being tapped for other city priorities.
An Amphibian Resistance
There’s a movement leaping into action through Portland’s inflatable frog protest mascots. Their real-life amphibian counterparts are resisters, too, but they need our help.
There’s a movement leaping into action through Portland’s inflatable frog protest mascots. Their real-life amphibian counterparts are resisters, too, but they need our help.
Zenith Energy Legal Fight Highlights Gaps in Portland’s Environmental Guardrails
Climate activists say the city has little authority to enforce restrictions it imposed on a controversial oil transport operation.
Climate activists say the city has little authority to enforce restrictions it imposed on a controversial oil transport operation.
Updated: County Declares Emergency as Portland Faces Dangerous, Extended Heat Wave
Multnomah County will open two daytime cooling centers and extend hours at three libraries.
Multnomah County will open two daytime cooling centers and extend hours at three libraries.
Updated: The Willamette River is Swimmable Again, Health Officials Say
The Oregon Health Authority has lifted its advisory against recreating on the river, issued last week due to a toxic algae bloom.
The Oregon Health Authority has lifted its advisory against recreating on the river, issued last week due to a toxic algae bloom.
For a Glimpse Into Portland's Thriving Future, Look to the River
After years of dedicated advocacy, Portland is getting on board with being a “swimmable city.”
After years of dedicated advocacy, Portland is getting on board with being a “swimmable city.”
At This Cully Church, an Unwanted Parking Lot Is Now a Garden Refuge
Portland nonprofit Depave led the effort to transform a slab of blacktop behind a church into a thriving green space. The city's zoning code didn't make it easy.
Portland nonprofit Depave led the effort to transform a slab of blacktop behind a church into a thriving green space. The city's zoning code didn't make it easy.
After Manufacturer Backlash, DEQ Delays Clean Truck Rule
Enforcement of the Advanced Clean Truck rule, intended to reduce diesel emissions in Oregon, has been delayed until 2027.
Enforcement of the Advanced Clean Truck rule, intended to reduce diesel emissions in Oregon, has been delayed until 2027.
Councilor Mitch Green Suggests Borrowing Money from PCEF to Fund Parks
Green's proposal comes as Mayor Keith Wilson floats deep cuts to Portland Parks & Recreation to fill a budget shortfall.
Green's proposal comes as Mayor Keith Wilson floats deep cuts to Portland Parks & Recreation to fill a budget shortfall.
Fans of PDX's Upgrade, Mass Timber, and Sustainability Just Got a New Anthem!
DJ Avelanche's fire video for “PDX (Wooden Roof)” is a fun who’s who of Portland hip-hop
DJ Avelanche's fire video for “PDX (Wooden Roof)” is a fun who’s who of Portland hip-hop
City Council to Overturn Hearings Officer's Approval of PGE Forest Park Plan
All 12 members of the council indicated they would reject the plan at an appellate hearing last week. Their decision underscores the broader implications of the utility project to people on both sides of the issue.
All 12 members of the council indicated they would reject the plan at an appellate hearing last week. Their decision underscores the broader implications of the utility project to people on both sides of the issue.
Fueling Portland’s Future: Renewable Fuels Come Under the Microscope at City Hall
New Portland leaders are pushing back on the city’s narrative around alternative fuels and their climate benefits.
New Portland leaders are pushing back on the city’s narrative around alternative fuels and their climate benefits.
Portland Hearings Officer Signs Off on PGE's Forest Park Utility Plan
The city sided with the utility company over a controversial plan to cut down 400 trees in Portland's biggest park.
The city sided with the utility company over a controversial plan to cut down 400 trees in Portland's biggest park.
Oregon Senate Bill Aims to Address Greenwashing
The bill has been criticized as overly broad and difficult to enforce, but environmental advocates say truthful marketing is crucial to addressing the climate crisis.
The bill has been criticized as overly broad and difficult to enforce, but environmental advocates say truthful marketing is crucial to addressing the climate crisis.
Climate Advocates Will Appeal the City’s Zenith Decision
A coalition of climate organizations and Portland residents plan to challenge Zenith’s land use approval with the state Land Use Board of Appeals, citing a lack of public process.
A coalition of climate organizations and Portland residents plan to challenge Zenith’s land use approval with the state Land Use Board of Appeals, citing a lack of public process.
New Council Committee Grapples With Portland’s Slipping Climate Goals
Councilors hope the new Climate, Resilience, and Land Use Committee can help the city reduce carbon emissions and advance environmental justice.
Councilors hope the new Climate, Resilience, and Land Use Committee can help the city reduce carbon emissions and advance environmental justice.
Proposed Legislation Threatens Oregon’s Plan to Reduce Diesel Truck Emissions
Some truck manufacturers say they can’t meet requirements under the state’s Advanced Clean Trucks rule and need more time. Climate advocates say the regulation is feasible and important.
Some truck manufacturers say they can’t meet requirements under the state’s Advanced Clean Trucks rule and need more time. Climate advocates say the regulation is feasible and important.
Facing Public and Council Opposition, Portland Grants Zenith Key Approval
City staff issued Zenith the land use credential shortly after two city councilors called for an investigation into the company.
City staff issued Zenith the land use credential shortly after two city councilors called for an investigation into the company.
“A Dangerous Precedent”: PGE Faces Major Backlash for Forest Park Utility Proposal
The utility company’s Harborton Reliability Project would cut 400 trees in an effort to bolster Portland’s electrical grid. Opponents say it’s not worth the loss of priceless natural resources.
The utility company’s Harborton Reliability Project would cut 400 trees in an effort to bolster Portland’s electrical grid. Opponents say it’s not worth the loss of priceless natural resources.
Zenith Permit Decision Raises Questions, Conflicts About City Council Authority
New city councilors realize they don’t have much power over the controversial company’s future—and they want to change that.
New city councilors realize they don’t have much power over the controversial company’s future—and they want to change that.
2024 Wrapped: This Year's Biggest Environmental News
Clean Energy Fund spending, Willamette River love, and Zenith faces some heat. This was the biggest Portland environment news in 2024.
Clean Energy Fund spending, Willamette River love, and Zenith faces some heat. This was the biggest Portland environment news in 2024.
Awash With Cash, Portland Clean Energy Fund Marks New Strategy With Latest Investments
PCEF will allocate $300 million in grants for large-scale projects. A hefty portion of funds will go to the city’s own bureaus for infrastructure projects and decarbonization.
PCEF will allocate $300 million in grants for large-scale projects. A hefty portion of funds will go to the city’s own bureaus for infrastructure projects and decarbonization.
With Zenith Energy’s Permits On The Line, Critics Urge Strong Government Oversight
The controversial fuel storage and transport company faces state fines and additional regulatory requirements. City officials will decide what happens next.
The controversial fuel storage and transport company faces state fines and additional regulatory requirements. City officials will decide what happens next.
Oregon DEQ Wants New Requirements for Ross Island Sand & Gravel’s Willamette River Cleanup
The proposed new rules come after a lawsuit alleging the DEQ failed to hold the former gravel company accountable for Willamette River water quality.
The proposed new rules come after a lawsuit alleging the DEQ failed to hold the former gravel company accountable for Willamette River water quality.
As Public Comment Deadline Looms, Critics Elevate Case Against Current I-5 Bridge Replacement Plan
There’s a rare opportunity to comment on controversial environmental impacts of the plan to replace and expand I-5 from Portland to Vancouver.
Advocates “Cautiously Optimistic” About DEQ Decision to Delay Zenith Air Quality Permit
The Oregon DEQ is pausing issuing Zenith Energy a new air quality permit. Agency staff credit environmental advocates for drawing attention to their concerns.
Will a Fresh Batch of City Leaders Transform Portland’s Climate Leadership?
Polling data suggests voters see opportunities to strengthen local environmental policies and change course on issues like oil by rail.
Lawsuits Allege Deceit and Greenwashing by Oregon’s Largest Gas Utility
NW Natural talks up its climate strategy, but new legal challenges say the company has spent years lying about the environmental impact of natural gas.
Two Years After Adopting Emergency Climate Action Plan, Portland is Behind on Goals
The city cites progress despite plan’s shortcomings. Skeptics say it needs clearer objectives.
After a Major Overhaul, Has Portland's Clean Energy Fund Found its Footing?
PCEF will invest nearly $92 million in climate projects around the city. Leaders say nonprofit grantees were thoroughly vetted and the projects align with the city's climate goals.
Portland’s Summers Are Getting Dangerously Hot. More Trees Could Save Lives.
Amid a push for "shade equity," the city commits to planting more trees in Portland's least-leafy neighborhoods.
After Years of Stigma and Advocacy, a Willamette River Renaissance
A years-long push to increase access to the Willamette is paying off as more Portlanders turn to the river for recreation. Advocates say their work isn’t done yet.
Activists Reignite the Battle for Oregon’s Old-Growth Timber
Using both the democratic process and a bit of civil disobedience, "forest protectors" rally to save ancient trees.
Portland Freight Train Derailment Spotlights Transportation and Environmental Risks
A Union Pacific freight train derailed on the east end of Portland's Steel Bridge Monday, halting traffic for several hours. Advocates say it could've been a lot worse.
Photo Essay: Portlanders Young and Old Celebrate Earth Day With Making Earth Cool
Under the pomp and ceremony of a costume parade on a beautiful spring day lay a deep reservoir of disquiet for what the future might hold.
City of Portland to Form a Designated Climate Commission
The Sustainability and Climate Commission will be the missing half of the now-dissolved Planning and Sustainability Commission. Advocates hope it will be an influential voice for strong climate policy.
Portland is Updating its Tree Management Plan, Last Edited in 2004
The city is poised to update its Urban Forest Management Plan, modernizing it for a changing climate and funding landscape.
Portland Elections Office Finds Zenith Energy Violated City Lobbying Rules
Activists hope the findings will substantiate their concerns about Zenith's operations and promote further action against the oil transport company.
Portland Preservationists Think the Future of New Housing is in Old Buildings
At a recent City Council meeting, members of Portland’s Historic Landmarks Commission asked elected officials to rethink the "new build" approach to housing production.
UPDATED: Loud, Polluting Leaf Blowers Are on Their Way Out of Portland
Portland City Council unanimously approved an ordinance to ban gas-powered leaf blowers starting in 2026.
Parkrose High School Students Speak Out Against Planned Freight Development
After years of neglect and environmental injustice, Northeast Portland teens want to turn the tide on plans for a diesel warehouse they say will pollute their school neighborhood
Commissioner Rubio Faces Pushback for Proposal to Support Portland Street Response with Clean Energy Funds
Rubio has offered PSR a lifeline from the Portland Clean Energy Fund. Critics say Rubio is treating PCEF like a slush fund to boost her political aspirations.
Portland's Plan To Spur Housing Development by Relaxing Regulations Has Political Implications
The code change discussions underscored key differences amongst Portland City Council members— some of whom are competing for the mayoral seat this year.
The Biggest Portland Environmental News of 2023
Oil company lawsuits, asbestos rain, and Rubio disappoints activists: A lot happened in 2023's environmental news.
The Portland Clean Energy Fund Is Fast Becoming the City’s Fiscal Lifeline
New projections show PCEF will have access to about $1.2 billion over the next five years, giving fund leaders the opportunity to greatly expand its clean energy programming.
Portland Set to Begin Work on First-of-Its-Kind Climate Investment Plan Financed by Clean Energy Fund
Portland is poised to spend $750 million over the next five years on climate projects through the city's clean energy fund. The spending plan comes as another city bureau is in peril.
Portland Youths Call for Local, State Climate Action at Annual Climate Strike
Hundreds of Portlanders gathered Friday, Sept. 15 to demand Gov. Tina Kotek declare a climate emergency and take action against Zenith Energy.
Missing the Forest and the Trees: How City Politics Are Getting in the Way of Portland’s Tree Canopy
Experts say trees play a key role in combating the effects of climate change, but Portland’s convoluted system has led to confusion and neglect.
With Revenue Windfall, Portland Clean Energy Fund Committee Approves Climate Investment Plan
Despite past hiccups, PCEF is now on track to dole out $750 million on carbon cutting projects through 2028.
Asbestos Found in Northeast Portland Fire Debris, Stoking Neighborhood Health Fears
A fire at a former Kmart building earlier this week spread toxic ash around the neighborhood. Nearby residents say it's another example of "repeated trauma" at the site.
Multnomah County to Sue Big Oil for Billions for Their Role In Deadly Heat Dome Event
Multnomah County Commissioners voted today to file a lawsuit against fossil fuel companies for their role in the climate crisis and deadly 2021 heat dome.
Climate Activists To Protest Zenith Oil Along the Willamette River
The demonstration is the latest effort to get the oil transport company's permits reversed at the local and state level.
Making Earth Cool: Partying to Save the Planet
On First Thursday, the art collective kicks off a two-month residency at Parallax Art Center.
Despite New Leadership, Portland Officials Decline to Reconsider Zenith Energy Deal
Climate activists will now turn their attention to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
Portland Approves Zenith Proposal for Renewable Fuels Operations
The proposal could lead to the end of Zenith’s ongoing legal battle with the city.
Zenith Seeks Compromise with Portland Amid Legal Challenge
The company will commit to renewable fuels operations if the city grants operational permits for the facility.
Commissioner Rubio Proposes an Overhaul to the Portland Clean Energy Fund
The proposal would allow for-profit and government agencies to be funded with PCEF grants.
Portland City Council Approves Emergency Plan to Respond to Climate Change
While the plan sets the city’s intention to respond to the climate crisis, critics argue that the plan is merely aspirational.
Know Your Neighbors
The city is turning to neighborhood emergency teams to fill in the gaps in the region's heat wave response.
North Portland Roofing Facility Agrees to Emissions Mitigation Plan After Historic DEQ Fine
The Malarkey Roofing facility released at least 10 tons of formaldehyde per year into the Kenton neighborhood for nearly a decade.
Portland City Council Approves $107 Million in Green Energy Grants—Here’s Where the Money is Going
The grants are the single largest climate investment in the city’s history.
City Council Considers $107 Million in Clean Energy Grants
The Portland Clean Energy Fund increased grant giving and added additional risk mitigation measures following scrutiny
Thank You for Not Breeding
Sure, the Voluntary Extinction Movement Doesn’t Want You to Have Babies—But There’s Much More to the Story
You Still Shouldn't Be Eating Willamette River Fish
Health Advisory Warns Against Consuming Toxic Fish
The Last Straw
Why Local Bar Owners Are Getting Rid of Single-Use Plastic Straws
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