North Texas

McDonald's launches its plant-based McPlant burger at 600 locations in Texas and California, collaborating with Beyond Meat for a patty made from peas, rice, and potatoes. The initiative aligns with McDonald's sustainability goals. Vegan options are trending, with competitors like Burger King also offering plant-based items.

For its third year, the 'Lights Out' campaign urges Texans to turn off outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. during peak bird migration (April 22-May 12) to prevent distractions and collisions. The initiative is growing, with increased city participation and surveys to reduce bird casualties.

Great turnout for Oak Cliff Earth Day 2022! Photos by J.G. Domke and others showcase the event. Thanks to sponsors like Dallas College, Dallas Parks and Rec, and more. Marsha Jackson engaged attendees at Dallas College's booth.

Wildlife agencies urge Texans to assist conservation efforts for the declining Texas kangaroo rat, whose numbers have decreased due to habitat loss. Initiatives include habitat restoration, prescribed grazing, and voluntary collaboration with landowners to avert stricter regulations and ensure the species' survival.

Russian hackers are probing Texas' energy infrastructure for weak points to steal information or disrupt operations, raising cybersecurity concerns since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Texas power grid and energy sector face elevated threats, with potential consequences including power outages, halted oil and gas shipments, and refinery disruptions.

Oak Cliff Earth Day returns April 3, 2022, at Lake Cliff Park, Dallas, after a two-year pause. The event features eco-friendly vendors, speakers, and entertainment, including Marsha Jackson, a 2020 environmental award winner. Hosted by Green Source DFW and the Memnosyne Institute, it is supported by Dallas College.

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.

Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area is reviving its trail run after eight years, offering the Woods and Wetlands 6K+ and the Earth Day Dash. Scheduled for April 23, proceeds support restoration efforts. The event features a new Stewart Creek Trail and emphasizes participation over competition, including snacks and educational activities.

Rocky Creek Park, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, preserves one of the last Fort Worth prairies at Benbrook Lake. The updated master plan designates 1,100 acres as Environmentally Sensitive Areas, protecting significant landscapes and habitats. The park offers diverse wildlife, trails, and unique prairie ecosystems.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine led a coalition to highlight environmental impacts, including nuclear risks and pollution. An open letter signed by over 1,000 global entities underscores the potential environmental crisis from military actions in industrial areas and stresses the connection between peace and environmental health.