Climate Change

A climate-focused Dallas youth coalition, including the Sunrise Movement, rallied outside Rep. Marc Veasey’s office, urging support for the Green New Deal and opposing his stance on Biden’s halted oil and gas leases. They criticize Veasey's fossil fuel ties and demand action on economic, racial, and environmental issues.

Four Texas Democrats opposed Biden’s pause on new oil and gas leases on federal lands, arguing it harms jobs and the economy. Despite supporting the Paris climate deal, they urge reevaluation of the order, advocating balanced policies addressing climate change while protecting jobs.

Ranjana Bhandari, leader of Liveable Arlington, will discuss her group’s victory against gas drilling on "Staying Home with Josh Fox" on Sept. 24 at 3:30 p.m. CST. Their successful pushback with Arlington City Council against Total's drilling plan has received national attention for environmental justice.

A fracking watchdog group in Arlington opposes the approval of seven new gas wells at the Rocking Horse site without public input. The site, near a daycare, required only administrative approval due to a 2013 permit. The group urges public hearings, citing health risks and demanding stricter setbacks.

Texans face increasing droughts due to climate change, threatening water supply and agriculture. Researchers warn of the state's driest conditions in 1,000 years. Rising population exacerbates water demand, challenging ranchers like Arthur Uhl and Bill Hyman. Conservation measures are crucial, urging legislators and consumers to adopt sustainable practices.

During quarantine, Fort Worth activists launched a 350.org chapter to educate on climate change after suspending weekly protests. Led by Chay Creswell and John MacFarlane, the group’s first virtual meeting is on July 16. They aim to collaborate locally on urgent climate action and policy development.

While the nation grapples with the pandemic and racial injustice protests, the Trump administration continues to roll back environmental protections, reversing over 60 rules since 2017. Key rollbacks include changes to emissions rules, wetland protections, and wildlife protections. Various resources track these changes, such as Harvard and Columbia Law Schools.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram hired Haley Samsel as an environmental reporter with support from a $15,000 Anita Berry Martin Memorial Fund grant and Report for America. Samsel will cover environmental issues related to Fort Worth's rapid growth, addressing challenges like flash flooding and deforestation.

Dallas City Council unanimously passed its first climate action plan, the Comprehensive Environmental and Climate Action Plan (CECAP), aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions to meet Paris Agreement targets. While many supported it, others called for swift, bold action and emphasized the need for public involvement and partnerships.

Dallas and Fort Worth ISDs initiate climate actions following campaigns by activists Molly Rooke and John MacFarlane. Fort Worth ISD formed a Sustainability Committee, while Dallas ISD approved an Environment and Climate Action Resolution, aiming for sustainability, electric buses, renewable energy, and waste reduction.