The Sierra Club releases a 50-state survey of development and sprawl: "The Good, the Bad, and the Poorly Zoned -- From Alabama to Wyoming."
According to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Center for Civic Journalism, sprawl tied with crime as one of the most pressing concerns for Americans at the local level. A quick glance at the hundreds of recent state and local ballot measures on the issue confirms the fact: Americans want to find a better way to grow.This report, "Smart Choices or Sprawling Growth: A 50-State Survey of Development," is the Sierra Club's third annual survey of sprawl. It looks at development in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Our goal is to help define what's good and what's bad and to present evidence -- and hope -- that we can change the way we grow, protect our environment and strengthen our communities in the process.
Thanks to Laura Krafft
FULL STORY: Smart Choices or Sprawling Growth
Manufactured Crisis: Losing the Nation’s Largest Source of Unsubsidized Affordable Housing
Manufactured housing communities have long been an affordable housing option for millions of people living in the U.S., but that affordability is disappearing rapidly. How did we get here?
Americans May Be Stuck — But Why?
Americans are moving a lot less than they once did, and that is a problem. While Yoni Applebaum, in his highly-publicized article Stuck, gets the reasons badly wrong, it's still important to ask: why are we moving so much less than before?
Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.
Greening Oakland’s School Grounds
With help from community partners like the Trust for Public Land, Oakland Unified School District is turning barren, asphalt-covered schoolyards into vibrant, green spaces that support outdoor learning, play, and student well-being.
California Governor Suspends CEQA Reviews for Utilities in Fire Areas
Utility restoration efforts in areas affected by the January wildfires in Los Angeles will be exempt from environmental regulations to speed up the rebuilding of essential infrastructure.
Native American Communities Prepare to Lead on Environmental Stewardship
In the face of federal threats to public lands and conservation efforts, indigenous groups continue to model nature-centered conservation efforts.
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