North Texas

A small lizard, endemic to southeastern New Mexico and a few West Texas counties, has been listed as endangered under the ESA after decades of delay, yet without habitat protection. Its survival is threatened by industry opposition and inadequate conservation efforts, sparking debate over its ecological value.

In 2023, Americans consumed nearly 16 billion gallons of bottled water primarily sourced from underground aquifers. Richard’s Rainwater, a Texas company and bottled water outlier, utilizes rainwater captured in Mississippi, distributing 2 million fully recyclable bottles. Founded in the 1990s by Richard Heinichen, the company emphasizes rainwater's purity and sustainability.

In Arlington, Texas, residents grapple with methane emissions from local oil and gas wells. A federal rule requires operators to reduce methane leaks, but as Texas gathers public input for its state plan, concerns about health impacts persist. The rule aims to reduce pollution, but enforcement challenges loom.

It's the final days of holiday shopping, but don't worry! Grab these eco-friendly gifts quickly. Highlights include Coldplay's vinyl made from recycled bottles, Marshall Grain's poinsettia sale, Dreamboat Donuts' vegan treats, and Rooster Home's Texas-themed goodies. Also explore Froggie's toys, White Rock's coffee, and local entertainment options.

The Earth, Wind and Fire Conference, hosted by the Dallas Sierra Club at Brookhaven Campus on March 1, will convene experts on local land, air, and water issues. Topics include Texas's electric grid, DFW’s water supply, and air quality.

Finding ideal gifts for kids and pets is made easier with eco-friendly options like sustainable toys, indoor climbing at Hapik, creative DIY kits, and organic treats. Options include IKEA’s wooden train sets, science kits from KiwiCo, Green Toys, and more. Stores like Sample House provide sustainable choices, and gifts ensure fun and environmental consciousness.

My husband and I put up a screech owl box hoping for owls, but bees moved in instead. Ryan Giesecke from the Texas Association of Professional Bee Removers explained that it's common for honeybees to occupy these boxes in Texas. Leaving the bees can be safe if they are out of the way, offering educational and pollination benefits.

Promote sustainability this holiday with eco-friendly gifts like Spicytude Chai, Victory Seed's garden kits, and Trinity Forest Adventure Park experiences. Options also include Magnolia Art Co watercolors, reusable Swedish dishcloths, TLC Vegan dinner, Texas-made products, and local festive events, enhancing the gift of giving with environmental consciousness.

Allison Docker, Fort Worth's new green space champion, aims to preserve open spaces and enhance the city's environment through sustainable initiatives. She brings experience in landscape architecture, contributing to projects like urban parks and streetscapes, aligning with the city’s Good Natured initiative to preserve 10,000 acres by 2028.

Katharine Hayhoe, a Texas-based atmospheric scientist, urges those worried about climate change and energy transition to avoid despair. Despite election disappointments, she emphasizes hope, collaboration, and realism in addressing climate issues, and draws inspiration from her faith to maintain a positive and empowered mindset.