Business

Aug 24 2022, JIM DOMKE

Two Arlington businesses have roots in owners' love of trees

Ryan Elliott left his corporate job to pursue a passion for arboriculture, launching Treehugger Tree Service. Caleb Geer, influenced by his father's tree business, started Urban Tree Merchants, creating products from local tree waste. They promote sustainable tree care, recycling urban wood into custom items.

Jul 01 2022, Erin Douglas

SCOTUS limits EPA’s ability to regulate greenhouse gases

July 1, 2022

The high court said a cap on power plants’ carbon dioxide emissions that forces a transition to other fuels may be a “sensible” solution to the climate crisis, but that Congress did not give the Environmental Protection Agency the broad authority to make such requirements. Texas was one of 17 states that joined in the suit.

TEXAS TRIBUNE

Jun 23 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Trucking co. adds electric big rigs to Fort Worth fleet

Fleetmaster Express introduced two Volvo VNR electric trucks in Fort Worth, part of a collaboration with Volvo, Ball Corporation, and Nacarato Truck Centers. The e-trucks, with a 275-mile range, support sustainability goals by replacing diesel vehicles. They will transport aluminum cans for Ball Corporation to reduce emissions.

May 20 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Dallas now requires public hearings for batch plant applications

Dallas City Council approved regulations requiring public hearings for concrete and asphalt batch plants via a Specific Use Permit. Applauded by environmentalists, the change addresses equity and pollution concerns and gives communities a voice in plant siting. A second phase considers buffer zones to limit impacts on sensitive areas.

Apr 14 2022, BRANDI ADDISON

New cloth diaper service launches in DFW

Abigail Austin, owner of Wholesome Diaper Co., launches a cloth diaper service in Dallas-Fort Worth, offering customizable weekly subscriptions with laundry services. Benefits include reduced diaper rash and environmental impact, despite some challenges like daycare acceptance and less absorbency. Prices range from $25-$50 weekly.

Mar 24 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Environmentalists sue NRC for licensing radioactive waste dump in West Texas

Environmental groups including Beyond Nuclear and Sierra Club are suing the NRC for approving a temporary high-level radioactive waste storage facility in West Texas, arguing it poses safety risks and violates federal laws. Texas and New Mexico also oppose the facility, expected to store vast nuclear waste amounts.

Nov 23 2021, JOHN KENT

Fort Worth to Dallas in under 20 minutes? Proposed transit system could be the ticket

Imagine stepping onto a speedy, cushy, state-of-the-art electric train, then blowing past all those poor stiffs mired on the interstate as you blast your way from Fort Worth to Dallas and back. Whoosh! You’re there.

Sep 20 2021, JOHN KENT

Internship program aims to boost diversity in clean energy industry

The NTREG/TXSES Diversity Internship Program, chaired by Rosa Orenstein, aims to boost diversity in the solar industry by introducing underrepresented students to clean energy careers. Funded by the Texas Solar Energy Society, the program offers paid part-time internships to diverse candidates and seeks more industry participation.

Aug 31 2021, JOHN KENT

EV company eyeing Fort Worth prairie parcel for new plant

Rivian Automotive plans a $5 billion plant on Fort Worth's west side to produce zero-emissions vehicles. Emphasizing sustainability, the company aims for net-zero carbon output, preserve 300 acres, and collaborate with the Open Space Conservation Program. Fort Worth has approved a $440 million tax incentive for the project.

Jul 28 2021, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Shingle maker is polluting neighborhood, says Dallas coalition

A coalition in North Texas claims an asphalt shingle facility in West Dallas, GAF Materials, is illegally operating and polluting the area, risking residents' health. They're urging public assistance to enforce better air quality controls and municipal compliance through a public hearing and written comments submission.