NPR’s Climate Solutions Week

Climate change influences decisions on where and how people live. NPR dedicates a week to explore solutions for adapting to a hotter planet. You can subscribe to NPR’s Up First Email for more insights.

Tribal Climate Action

Mike Durglo Jr., the climate change coordinator for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, has focused his life on preparing his community for climate change. Over 15 years ago, he developed one of the first tribal climate action plans in the U.S.—a pioneering effort in addressing environmental impacts.

Climate-Friendly Housing

Sebastian Schublach and his family have lived in a climate-friendly, affordable apartment in Vienna for six years. The building maximizes light in its kitchen and dining areas.

Adaptation in Copenhagen

By the end of the century, Copenhagen, Denmark, anticipates 30% more rainfall. The city prepared by implementing a comprehensive adaptation plan. Enghaveparken, redesigned after a 2011 flood, can transform into a reservoir during heavy rains.

Deconstruction for Climate Solutions

In Aurora, Colorado, Pedro Macedo works on deconstructing buildings. At a former ranch site, he removes nails from a wood frame formerly part of a barn, showcasing a sustainable approach to building re-use.

Oakland’s EcoBlock Project

Nick Corlett stands by a newly installed heat pump at his Oakland home. Part of the EcoBlock project, the initiative aims to eliminate gas use across an entire block, offering residents and researchers valuable insights as the project concludes.

Hurricane Preparedness

In Siesta Key, Florida, Hurricane Milton caused significant flooding and tornadoes. Preparedness programs like those in Mobile County, Alabama, assist in better protecting homes against disasters, offering insurance benefits to encourage participation.

Seattle’s Tree Preservation

The Boulders development in Seattle’s Green Lake area integrates mature trees and a waterfall to enhance cooling and aesthetics, making it a model for balancing housing expansion and environmental conservation.

Flood Elevation Strategies

Amanda Devecka-Rinear’s home on a small island in New Jersey survived Superstorm Sandy due to maintenance elevation efforts. The story highlights the importance of strategic elevation in flood-prone areas.

Community Collaboration in Ecovillages

At Earthaven Ecovillage, collaboration guides the community, as members plant crops in shared gardens. Such environments emphasize cooperation as a key climate solution.

Las Vegas Trees Initiative

Brad Daseler discusses the importance of choosing the right trees for each environment. Las Vegas plants more trees to mitigate rising temperatures, showcasing the thoughtful use of tree planting as a climate solution.

Energy Reduction Tips

Dorit Aviv, from the University of Pennsylvania, suggests easy and sometimes free ways to reduce home energy use, emphasizing the simplicity of action in combating climate change.

Recycled Sewage for Water Scarcity

In St. George, Utah, leaders explore recycled sewage to address water scarcity. With a growing population, unconventional solutions like this may be critical for desert communities.

Fighting Food Waste

Shuggie’s Trash Pie restaurant tackles food waste by creating meals from ‘trash.’ The founders address the global food waste issue, noting that 38% of the U.S. food supply remains uneaten.

Indigenous-Led Food Training

In Fairbanks, Alaska, Indigenous communities participate in farming programs to overcome challenges in accessing fresh produce, fostering local resilience through education.

Health Warnings on Gas Stoves

Gas stoves emit nitrogen dioxide, and consumer groups advocate for health warning labels on new stoves to raise awareness of these risks.

Understanding Beef Consumption

Research indicates that men are the primary consumers of beef in the U.S., revealing challenges in encouraging reduced consumption for climate benefits.