The recent Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage in Western North Carolina, disproportionately affecting Black households due to structural racism and climate change, with more intense storms expected in the future.
Category: ENVIRONMENT
Hurricane Helene kills at least 44 and cuts a swath of destruction across the Southeast
Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction across Florida and the southeastern U.S., killing at least 44 people and causing widespread flooding, tornadoes, and power outages.
The world is pumping out 57 million tons of plastic pollution a year
The world creates 57 million tons of plastic pollution each year, with more than two-thirds coming from the Global South, according to a new study.
DOJ files $100-million lawsuit against owner and operator of ‘Dali’ months after bridge
The U.S. Justice Department is suing Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine Group for more than $100 million for their container ship’s collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which resulted in six deaths and significant disruption to economic activity.
Trump appointed judge says the EPA can’t use race in “cancer alley” probe
A federal judge in Louisiana has blocked the federal government from investigating whether race should be considered as a factor in the enforcement of environmental laws, effectively barring the EPA from using Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to prove racism was at work in creating “Cancer Alley.”
5 ways to implement ‘zero waste’ lifestyle
Zero Waste Week, Sept. 4-8, encourages individuals to reduce their waste and be more sustainable, with tips including buying in bulk, turning off water while brushing teeth, using what you have, using reusable items, and making eco-friendly swaps.
Summer 2024: From weather extremes to solutions
The Inflation Reduction Act includes funding for climate resilience and infrastructure improvements, and grassroots action and voting for leaders committed to climate change and environmental justice are essential for Black communities to build resilience and protect their communities.
The stigma of fatherlessness
The Baltimore Sun editorial board’s condescending portrayal of Mayor Brandon Scott’s marriage and Black fathers is refuted by sociological studies and historical research, which show that Black fathers are more involved in their children’s lives than any other racial group.
Small Business Administration preps entrepreneurs for natural disasters with resilience guide
The Small Business Administration has released a new Business Resilience Guide to help entrepreneurs prepare for natural disasters, providing best practices and templates to help businesses curb and bounce back from crises.
Impact of Canadian wildfires on air quality and athletes: A cautious look at this summer
Coaches and athletic organizations are taking proactive measures to safeguard athletes’ health during the potential wildfire season, including monitoring air quality, adjusting training schedules, utilizing indoor training facilities, and educating athletes on the risks of poor air quality.
As wildfires intensify, climate change escalates
Wildfires are causing positive feedback loops that exacerbate global warming, leading to air quality issues, increased asthma rates, and loss of homes and communities.
How the Biden administration is working with Black churches to mitigate climate change
The Biden-Harris Administration is working with Black faith leaders to address climate change and its impact on Black communities, and has hosted roundtables and meetings to discuss solutions and resources for climate resilience.

