The Allegheny Front

In Scotland, efforts to keep plastic produced from Pa. shale gas out of the ocean. Climate change means more rain in our region. Will aging infrastructure protect towns from flooding? The strip mining and flooding connection in a warming world. Hemp growers have high hopes of turning a profit...someday. 

Shell’s ethane cracker in Beaver County will produce tiny plastic pellets that can spill or escape from the plant. Will the Ohio River be protected? RiverWise is embracing sustainability in Beaver County. Plus, there's a new plan to keep sewage overflows out of Pittsburgh's rivers. A CMU study finds economic value from natural gas in the region, but also premature deaths.

American natural gas is exported to 35 countries, including Japan. But some Pennsylvanians have been forced to give up their land in the process. We talk with Obama's chief climate negotiator on the future of climate action. A longtime environmentalist gives advice to the new generation. Charge filed in a security scheme along the troubled Mariner East pipeline project.

From talking to kids about the uncertainty of a warming planet to educating ourselves about climate science, we hear from people grappling with the enormity of the climate crisis. We go inside one of Pennsylvania's most energy efficient buildings. Pa. announces studies on health impacts from fracking.

One community along the Ohio River is using outdoor recreation to boost its economy. Plus, fallout from Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto's opposition to more petrochemical plants, while a researcher says fracking should be banned. A Philly charter school didn't notify parents when high levels of lead where found in the school's water fountains. 

While fracking is banned in Scotland, fracked gas from Pennsylvania is imported there to make plastic. The FBI is investigating the Wolf administration for its role in permitting of the Mariner East pipeline. The Pa. AG says climate change is costing the state hundreds of millions of dollars. A report from the borderlands: how the wall will impact wildlife.

The world's first certified EcoDistrict is a former steel town along the Allegheny River. Plus, as USEPA looks to loosen regulations for coal ash waste, what it's like to live near the largest of these toxic sites in the nation. Calls for stricter rules for coke ovens in Allegheny County, while everyday people learn to monitor smokestacks for air pollution. 

A researcher is calling for solutions to keep plastic pollution out of rivers. A new report shows worrisome levels of contaminants in drinking water across the U.S. and in Pittsburgh. How indigenous communities are looking to the sun and alternatives for affordable energy. Plus largest underground coal mining company goes bankrupt.

Backyard fires might be fun but ultrafine particles can get into lungs and blood. A ballot initiative in Pittsburgh to repair and maintain parks has supporters and skeptics. Outdoor Afro celebrates a love of nature. President Trump came to town and ripped the Paris agreement and Democratic climate plans.