Katherine Hammer
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Freelance writer, editor, content strategist | Former editor @girlslifemag @brat | Open to work! 💌 | bykatherinehammer@gmail.com
Articles by Katherine Hammer
Experts stunned by discovery in rainforest 15 years after reintroduction of beavers: '[They] may have created the right habitat'
Bringing back endangered wildlife and reinvigorating the environment? Leave it to the eager beavers, as experts in Scotland discovered from the optimistic results of a recent project, reported the Guardian. The choice to return beavers to one of the region's Knapdale rainforests 15 years ago "may have created the right habitat for the area's endangered water voles to flourish." By the end of the 19th century, beavers were nearly extinct from hunting.
'A living experience that is meant to positively impact ... well-being'
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City receives massive donation of land for remarkable new project: 'A treasure of our community'
San Diego, California, is known for its sunny skies and stunning outdoor spaces. Now, its residents and visitors are going to have the opportunity to enjoy even more sunshine and nature thanks to the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation. The nonprofit organization has made a contribution of 55 acres of land to San Diego to go toward the expansion of Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP), which is "one of the largest urban parks in the country," reports There San Diego.
Startup unveils sleek new tiny homes capable of generating energy for modern off-grid living: 'A living experience that is meant to positively impact ... well-being'
The innovative startup Cosmic Buildings recently revealed its latest model: Cosmic One, a tiny home that could make real strides in sustainable home construction. It is revolutionary for its eco-friendly approach to water and energy usage as well as its aesthetic and accessibility. In an interview with Dwell Magazine, Cosmic Buildings founder Sasha Jokic reflected on the project as well as the company's earliest origins.
Meet the woman transforming endangered forests into havens of opportunity: 'Her work is more than just a local initiative'
Climate change, poverty, and inequality are complex and often overwhelming issues. But for Sevidzem Ernestine Leikeki, these multifaceted problems are not just obstacles but opportunities.
Research organization aims to take advantage of yachts around the world with new system: 'The Tinder of the Seas'
Yachts for Science has taken an innovative approach to safeguarding the world's oceans: pairing marine researchers with yacht owners to embark on crucial sea explorations. The mission, per the organization's website? To improve scientists' and researchers' "access to the oceans … by utilising the thousands of yachts that are traveling the globe as platforms." The organization is the result of multiple groups' efforts to partner on their shared mission of exploring and protecting the ocean.
Trained scientist hosts 'Sustainability Salons' with a world-changing goal: 'I like to be around other curious souls'
For Maren Cooke, climate and community go hand in hand. The 62-year-old Pennsylvanian, a scientist, environmental educator, and passionate volunteer, was recently profiled in The Allegheny Front, a public radio program, as she achieved a significant milestone: hosting her 150th "Sustainability Salon" in the Pittsburgh region. The salons are, in Cooke's words, "giant potluck miniconferences," per The Allegheny Front.
Business group sues Texas officials to challenge controversial 2021 law over First Amendment concerns: 'Dangerous precedent for the role of government in business affairs'
Don't mess with Texas — unless you're the American Sustainable Business Council, that is. In a recent lawsuit, the eco-conscious business network is taking the Lone Star State to task, reported The New York Times. The main concern? That current Texas state policies targeting various corporate investments not only "violate … the First Amendment" but also "cost Texans millions of dollars in lost economic activity." In 2021, Texas lawmakers approved Senate Bill (S.B.) 13.
Major energy company moves forward with new solar project that can power up to 14,000 homes — and it's creating dozens of new jobs
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Major energy company moves forward with new solar project that can power up to 14,000 homes - and it's creating dozens of new jobs
Clean energy, more jobs, and economic growth: That's the threefold promise from sustainable power business Avangrid as it begins the installation phase of its latest project, Camino Solar, in the state of California, energynews reported.
Trained scientist hosts 'Sustainability Salons' with a world-changing goal: 'I like to be around other curious souls'
For Maren Cooke, climate and community go hand in hand. The 62-year-old Pennsylvanian, a scientist, environmental educator, and passionate volunteer, was recently profiled in The Allegheny Front, a public radio program, as she achieved a significant milestone: hosting her 150th "Sustainability Salon" in the Pittsburgh region. The salons are, in Cooke's words, "giant potluck miniconferences," per The Allegheny Front.
Investigation uncovers alarming behavior of world's largest beef producer: 'A devastating new war'
From the Amazon rainforest to the Pantanal wetland, Brazil's natural biodiverse territories are not just scenic marvels but critical resource providers the whole world relies upon for day-to-day survival. But, right now, Brazilian forests are under massive threat, Inside Climate News reports — with problematic agricultural actions, including the use of toxic pesticides, one major contributor.
Company unveils cutting-edge system to turn parking lots into solar power plants — and it can be built like a Lego set
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Company unveils cutting-edge system to turn parking lots into solar power plants - and it can be built like a Lego set
World4Solar, an American manufacturing business, just revealed its pioneering LumaPort solar energy system, Renewable Energy Magazine reports. With an adaptable setup, groundbreakingly simple implementation process, and cost-saving premise, LumaPort could transform how commercial entities are powered going forward. Solar and wind are, in the long run, more affordable and less harmful energy alternatives to coal, oil, and gas — the standard sources that we use for fuel.
Company unveils cutting-edge system to turn parking lots into solar power plants — and it can be built like a Lego set | Flipboard
I Just Learned You Can Turn A Grasshopper Into A Locust By Tickling It, And I Wish I Was Kidding Will the horrors never cease... Good morning. Or is it? Because, while watching QI last night, I discovered something that changed how I look at bugs …
Major Airport achieves significant milestone with global recognition for sustainability efforts: 'We progress toward net-zero'
Scotland's busiest airport has made promising progress toward a healthier, happier, and lower-cost future — and now it's ready to level up to even greater goals. Edinburgh Airport has advanced to Level 4, aptly named "Transformation," in the Airport Carbon Accreditation program thanks to its "dedication … [to] comprehensive sustainability initiatives," Environment+Energy Leader reported. The ACA's international certification has seven levels and 500-plus participating airports, per its website.
New studies find concerning factor linked to increased risk of heart attacks in young people - here's what you need to know
If you're 50 or younger, listen up: Noise pollution in cities has now been linked to cardiovascular problems. There is a heightened risk of heart attack in young people and diminished prospects after a first heart attack, according to a European Society of Cardiology release. Medical professionals and most of the general population have long been aware of certain conditions (diabetes, high cholesterol) and behaviors (smoking, drug use, diet) that can connect to our heart health.
'Cancer Alley' residents call out major corporation after dangerous blunder fills air with toxic black fumes: 'I taste oil in my mouth'
Last year, an oil refinery in Louisiana let massive amounts of combustible chemicals escape, an error that exposed residents to toxic contaminants. But as the Guardian recently detailed, authorities in the area were slow to take action and minimized the legitimate concerns of citizens. On a late August 2023 morning, one woman recounted to the Guardian, a "stench like burning oil" descended outside her southeast Louisiana home. Nearby, another woman dialed emergency services.
'Distinct and concerning changes'
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Scientists issue warning about increasingly alarming whale behavior due to human activity: 'Distinct and concerning changes'
The marine communication that whales depend on could soon be under threat as ocean traffic — and the problematic noise pollution it generates — continues to increase, Dr. Stuart Johnston, a mathematical biologist from the University of Melbourne, wrote in a summary of a new study. Johnston's team recently tested their "mathematical models to investigate how [a] noisy ocean soundscape impacts whale migration," he wrote in the summary, which was published in the journal Movement Ecology.
Ulta employees reveal what happens when customers return products - unused or used
Insider confessions from current and former employees at Ulta, the major cosmetics chain, posted on Reddit have revealed that beneath the glossy surface of a generous company policy might just be a whole bunch of (literal) trash. So, you want to jump on a beauty trend without blowing your budget on a potential disaster? Ulta says it has the solution: A 60-day return policy that gives you weeks to buy, try, dislike, and bring back a product — meaning, for customers, minimal risk and maximum relief.
This company will give you cash to get rid of your old stuff - here's the simple way to take advantage
What better way to ring in "new beginnings" season than with a massive closet cleanout? Don't stress about the whole declutter, ditch, donate process, though. This time, Trashie — the trailblazing startup saving your home organization, planet, and budget — has it handled. First, order Trashie's Take Back Bag for just $20. Then pack it with up to 15 pounds of washed (but unwanted) clothes, shoes, towels, bedding, and anything else textiles. Use the QR code to download and print your shipping label.
Activists allege corruption in lawsuits against major avocado suppliers over disturbing industry practices: 'Behind every avocado ... there is a bloodstain'
Katherine Hammer September 18, 2024 at 8:00 AM·3 min read Chips, hold the guac: Turns out, many of our avocados may come with a backstory of alleged corruption, chaos, and crime. Surprised? Two major U.S. avocado distributors aren't, argued the nonprofit Organic Consumers Association in a recent series of lawsuits, reported NBC News in a story sourced from Reuters. What's happening? Mexico, per The New York Times, is the preeminent global and U.S. avocado supplier.
PepsiCo aims to transform regenerative agriculture with over $6 million in grants - here's where the money will go
Katherine Hammer September 17, 2024 at 7:00 AM·2 min read PepsiCo is one of many corporations touting optimistic, expansive climate goals — and a recent investment in sustainable agriculture has the iconic food, snack, and beverage business meeting ambition with action. Soon, "inventive projects exploring regenerative agriculture in Canada, Australia, and Mexico" will receive grants totaling $6.7 million from PepsiCo and its project partner AgMission, reported Sustainability Magazine.
Scientists issue warning about project proposal to change the world's largest wetlands: 'It would be a senseless tragedy'
Katherine Hammer September 16, 2024 at 5:45 AM·2 min read South America's Pantanal is the largest wetland in the world — and it may be under just as large a threat, as reported by the Guardian. It faces potentially catastrophic losses from the construction of a commercial waterway within the stunning wetland locale, which is home to plant, animal, and human communities alike. What's happening? Scientists cautioned about the dangers of development in a recent paper.
This company will give you cash to get rid of your old stuff - here's the simple way to take advantage
What better way to ring in "new beginnings" season than with a massive closet cleanout? Don't stress about the whole declutter, ditch, donate process, though. This time, Trashie — the trailblazing startup saving your home organization, planet, and budget — has it handled. First, order Trashie's Take Back Bag for just $20. Then pack it with up to 15 pounds of washed (but unwanted) clothes, shoes, towels, bedding, and anything else textiles. Use the QR code to download and print your shipping label.
PepsiCo aims to transform regenerative agriculture with over $6 million in grants - here's where the money will go
PepsiCo is one of many corporations touting optimistic, expansive climate goals — and a recent investment in sustainable agriculture has the iconic food, snack, and beverage business meeting ambition with action. Soon, "inventive projects exploring regenerative agriculture in Canada, Australia, and Mexico" will receive grants totaling $6.7 million from PepsiCo and its project partner AgMission, reported Sustainability Magazine.
'It would be a senseless tragedy'
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Scientists issue warning about project proposal to change the world's largest wetlands: 'It would be a senseless tragedy'
South America's Pantanal is the largest wetland in the world — and it may be under just as large a threat, as reported by the Guardian. It faces potentially catastrophic losses from the construction of a commercial waterway within the stunning wetland locale, which is home to plant, animal, and human communities alike. Scientists cautioned about the dangers of development in a recent paper. Per the Guardian, the waterway project arose because of increasing demand for soybeans produced in the area.
DOE report reveals striking price drop for critical EV component: 'Now almost as cheap as gas-powered cars'
Katherine Hammer September 12, 2024 at 6:46 AM·2 min read The cost of electric vehicle lithium-ion batteries plunged by an impressive 90% between 2008 and 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, per recent reporting by CleanTechnica. Better materials, enhanced designs, more efficient manufacturing processes, and ramped-up production all contributed to the marked decline.
Scientists make critical breakthrough with method that can turn microplastics into material stronger than steel — here's how it can be used
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Scientists make critical breakthrough with method that can turn microplastics into material stronger than steel — here's how it can be used
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Scientists make critical breakthrough with method that can turn microplastics into material stronger than steel - here's how it can be used
Researchers have discovered an innovative process to transform harmful microplastics into graphene, a highly durable substance with widespread capabilities, reported Interesting Engineering. It's a scientific breakthrough and an optimistic development in tackling the global plastic crisis. Microplastics, as the name suggests, are miniature particles of plastic.
DOE report reveals striking price drop for critical EV component: 'Now almost as cheap as gas-powered cars'
The cost of electric vehicle lithium-ion batteries plunged by an impressive 90% between 2008 and 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, per recent reporting by CleanTechnica. Better materials, enhanced designs, more efficient manufacturing processes, and ramped-up production all contributed to the marked decline. It's another promising development in making EVs — vehicles fueled by battery-powered electric motors instead of gasoline — more accessible to consumers.
DOE report reveals striking price drop for critical EV component: 'Now almost as cheap as gas-powered cars'
Now Following this summer's heated protests against overtourism, there's some good news. For every overcrowded tourist spot in Europe, there are plenty of places around the world that need more visitors. St Mark's Square in Venice might host more tourists than pigeons, Barcelona has seen aggression …
'Comfortable living and impressive energy efficiency, regardless of the regional climate'
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'Comfortable living and impressive energy efficiency, regardless of the regional climate'
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Couple shares inside look at stunning, Scandinavian-inspired eco-home: 'Comfortable living and impressive energy efficiency, regardless of the regional climate'
Record heat waves, unexpected deep freezes, chaos, and crisis: Is there any way to prepare our homes for turbulent temperatures without steep costs? One family's countryside oasis shows that the future secret to comfortable living (minus exorbitant energy expenses) could come from an initial approach to home construction.
Couple shares inside look at stunning, Scandinavian-inspired eco-home: 'Comfortable living and impressive energy efficiency, regardless of the regional climate'
Katherine Hammer September 5, 2024 at 5:30 AM·3 min read Record heat waves, unexpected deep freezes, chaos, and crisis: Is there any way to prepare our homes for turbulent temperatures without steep costs? One family's countryside oasis shows that the future secret to comfortable living (minus exorbitant energy expenses) could come from an initial approach to home construction.
The government is giving away $1,600 to weatherproof US homes - here's how you can take advantage
Katherine Hammer September 3, 2024 at 5:30 AM·2 min read Want to cut costs and enhance your space no matter the season? Then, you may want to consider accepting the U.S. government's gift of up to $1,600, per Rewiring America. That money is available for projects related to home weatherization, and it is made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act's Electrification Rebates program.
The government is giving away $1,600 to weatherproof US homes — here's how you can take advantage
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The government is giving away $1,600 to weatherproof US homes — here's how you can take advantage
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The government is giving away $1,600 to weatherproof US homes - here's how you can take advantage
Want to cut costs and enhance your space no matter the season? Then, you may want to consider accepting the U.S. government's gift of up to $1,600, per Rewiring America. That money is available for projects related to home weatherization, and it is made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act's Electrification Rebates program. Weatherization projects (also known as weatherproofing) are improvements like air sealing, ventilation, and insulation upgrades that reduce energy wasted.
Decades-old document from oil giant resurfaces amid new controversy: 'Denial, disinformation, and delay'
It seems climate change is old news to U.S. oil refiner and massive corporate polluter Marathon Petroleum. As the Guardian reported, a 1977 feature in a publication of the forerunner of the oil company predicted the disastrous effects that could come from continued dirty energy production.
International Olympic Committee achieves incredible architectural feat - here's how it could influence future games
Katherine Hammer August 29, 2024 at 6:45 AM·3 min read Olympic House, the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee in Lausanne, Switzerland, was recently awarded the highest possible honor for building sustainability: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Platinum v4.1 certification, the IOC announced in a news release reprinted on 3BL CSRwire.
Every American household could soon get up to $8,000 for home upgrades - courtesy of the US government
Katherine Hammer August 28, 2024 at 6:30 AM·2 min read Your home renovation era has arrived, now that the U.S. government is giving people money to modernize their spaces and cut down their energy bills. Sounds too magical to be true? It's not a dream — just the Inflation Reduction Act, a 2022 law designed to protect your health, safeguard your property, prevent natural disasters, and improve your finances.
AI-powered platform helps electric companies reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires: 'Clear, data-driven insights that illustrate the potential impacts'
Katherine Hammer August 28, 2024 at 5:30 AM·2 min read New software from Washington, D.C., technology business Rhizome could soon transform how power providers predict and prevent wildfires, Electrek reported. The artificial intelligence-facilitated platform GridFirm enables utilities to better handle climate-driven grid malfunctions by "evaluat[ing] specific wildfire risk mitigation tactics utilities are commonly considering," as Rhizome co-founder Rahul Dubey detailed, per Electrek.
International Olympic Committee achieves incredible architectural feat - here's how it could influence future games
Olympic House, the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee in Lausanne, Switzerland, was recently awarded the highest possible honor for building sustainability: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Platinum v4.1 certification, the IOC announced in a news release reprinted on 3BL CSRwire. The exciting achievement speaks to the five-year-old building's eco-friendly architectural features as well as the IOC's ongoing commitment to sustainable standards and practices.
AI-powered platform helps electric companies reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires: 'Clear, data-driven insights that illustrate the potential impacts'
New software from Washington, D.C., technology business Rhizome could soon transform how power providers predict and prevent wildfires, Electrek reported. The artificial intelligence-facilitated platform GridFirm enables utilities to better handle climate-driven grid malfunctions by "evaluat[ing] specific wildfire risk mitigation tactics utilities are commonly considering," as Rhizome co-founder Rahul Dubey detailed, per Electrek.
Every American household could soon get up to $8,000 for home upgrades — courtesy of the US government
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