"The Interior Department has acknowledged that Secretary David Bernhardt’s staff intentionally left controversial meetings with representatives of fossil fuel, timber and water interests off his public calendar, citing “internal protocol” governing his schedules."
The tale of a failing nation’s climate woes is revealed in a cache of scientific notes hidden in a London attic after their author goes missing. The gripping mystery was unraveled with award-winning skill by journalist Laura Heaton, in our latest “Inside Story” Q&A. Read on and find out the story’s significance for climate adaptation.
The Toxics Release Inventory database, refreshed annually, has long been the foundation of many a good environmental news story. The latest release is now out, and this week’s TipSheet reminds journalists why the searchable online TRI can be such a valuable reporting tool in tracking toxic dangers.
"The National Archives and Records Administration gave the Interior Department until late April to address Democrats’ allegations that newly confirmed Secretary David Bernhardt may have been destroying his official calendars, according to a letter POLITICO obtained Friday." "The documents paint a picture of David Bernhardt’s frequent contact with representatives from industries he previously lobbied for and now oversees."
"Democratic lawmakers are asking appropriators to provide more funding so the Interior Department can hire more staff to handle public information requests."
"EPA's new plan for verifying chemicals that companies claim as trade secrets has some of the same shortcomings as a previous regulation currently tangled in litigation, according to critics."
The first state ban on styrofoam food containers makes this a good time to see how things stand with styrofoam in your area, as the controversial plastic draws negative attention for overflowing landfills, causing litter and polluting waters. More, plus story ideas and reporting resources, in this week’s TipSheet.
"President Trump is heading to Texas tomorrow to sign two executive orders aimed at boosting an oil and gas sector he's long touted as an ally. Whether that move will pay off for the industry in terms of substantial regulatory relief, or for Trump's 2020 prospects, is unclear."
"If oil is moving through Oregon, it’s Michael Zollitsch’s job to know about it. He oversees the state’s emergency responses to oil spills and other environmental disasters."
"The top watchdog overseeing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a rare 'management alert' Monday warning that the agency’s public data on toxic substance releases are not accurate."
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