Massachusetts Environmental Affairs Secretary finds itself in the untenable position of both a regulator and potential buyer for environmentally-sensitive lands.
"When state Environmental Affairs Secretary Robert Durand joined the campaign to buy thousands of acres of pristine cranberry uplands in Southeastern Massachusetts last year, it was part of a systematic policy of acquiring environmentally sensitive land to protect it from development... If Makepeace's land holdings were sold for conservation, it would be the largest such deal involving a single landowner in Massachusetts history. But the strategy of trying to control development through acquisition - while at the same time managing growth through regulation -- has been called into question by the conflict charges."
Thanks to Chris Steins
FULL STORY: State's dual role in preservation poses odd conflict
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.
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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.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
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