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North Texas

Split cityscape: barren land under smoky sky on left, lush grass under clear sky on right.
Mar 25 2021, Rita Beving

Texas bill threatens municipal climate plans statewide

Texas bill SB 1261, introduced by Sen. Brian Birdwell, threatens local climate plans in Texas by granting the state exclusive control over greenhouse gas regulations, affecting cities like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. Residents are urged to oppose it through the Senate Committee.
Twig sculptures shaped like huts on a grassy area with people nearby.
Mar 24 2021, JIM DOMKE

New art in local parks puts nature in spotlight

New public artworks in DFW parks highlight ecological themes. Patrick Dougherty's "Playin' Hooky" at Fort Worth Botanic Garden uses elm saplings, while "When Air Becomes Sky" and "Art + Knowledge" celebrate nature. Other installations include "Stacked Friends" in Dallas and Shelby David Meier’s exhibit at Nasher Sculpture Center.
City skyline at night with illuminated tall buildings.
Mar 17 2021, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Downtown Fort Worth to dim lights to help migrating birds

Fort Worth partnered with Downtown Fort Worth Inc to dim lights for migrating birds, as part of Lights Out Texas, helping billions of birds navigate safely. This aligns with initiatives inspired by BirdCast and other conservation efforts to tackle light pollution, crucial since many U.S. birds migrate via Texas.
Tree in a yard with a swing set, overcast sky.
Mar 16 2021, JOHN KENT

Most DFW trees spared by freeze

The deep freeze in North Texas stressed many trees, but most will recover, experts say. Live oaks' dramatic leaf loss is normal, while magnolias and sensitive non-native or young trees might suffer more. Residents should delay pruning and ensure trees are well-watered and fertilized to reduce stress.
Black cat sitting next to a smartphone on a bed.
Mar 11 2021, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Recycle your old phone into security cam

Using an old phone as a security cam can help monitor spaces like a tool shed with the Alfred Camera app. By utilizing two smartphones, one as a camera and one as a viewer, users can receive alerts and view recordings. The app offers features like motion alerts, two-way talk, and night vision.
Steak with mushrooms, mashed potatoes, and asparagus on a yellow plate.
Mar 10 2021, ANDREW RIDOUT

Dallas vegan deli sells tasty plant-based steaks

The Boneless Butcher in Dallas, founded by Crystal Gomez, offers vegan steaks as sustainable meat alternatives. Gomez perfected her recipe and expanded her offerings to include Boneless Ribz, aiming to appeal to both vegans and meat-eaters. She plans retail and local farmers market expansions, with hopes for a storefront.
White handheld device with buttons, labeled "Margie" on gray end.
Mar 10 2021, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Can DIY air monitoring save DFW air?

After moving to Midlothian, Laura Hunt's daughter developed a severe respiratory condition, prompting Hunt to investigate potential links to local cement plant emissions. She founded Midlothian Breathe, a group advocating for DIY air monitoring using low-cost sensors to track air quality and hold polluters accountable.
Mar 03 2021, Gary Olp

Green home design can offset effects of SAD

March 3, 2021

Seasonal affective disorder, aka SAD, is a type of depression, with up to 3 million cases reported each year. A reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter is suspected to cause winter-onset SAD, according to the Mayo Clinic.

And it’s not just something that affects people in rain-soaked regions like the Pacific Northwest: SAD impacts humans of all ages, all backgrounds, and all around the globe. 

Protesters wearing masks hold signs about profit and lives, one speaks into a megaphone.
Feb 26 2021, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Protest targets Jerry Jones’ co. that profited off Texas crisis 

Dallas youth protested against Comstock Resources, owned by Jerry Jones, accusing them of profiting from Texas' winter storm by exploiting high gas prices. The Sunrise Movement Dallas urged action against companies benefiting from climate issues, demanding utility bill forgiveness and a shift to a green economy.
Group of people at climate protest holding signs, some with environmental messages.
Feb 22 2021, JULIE THIBODEAUX

DFW climate group promotes free virtual training

The DFW chapter of the Climate Reality Project promotes free online training from April 22 to May 2 to empower climate activists. The sessions focus on policy change, sustainable futures, and stopping fossil fuel expansion. The initiative addresses urgent climate action and adaptation for North Texas.