The Allegheny Front

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.

This week on The Allegheny Front, how toxic trash is finally being cleaned up. Plus a host of bills in the Pennsylvania House look to boost the state's economy by encouraging natural gas development. And why birds like the Great Horned Owl could become less common in Pennsylvania's forests.

Residents keep an eye on a polluting coke plant that a judge has allowed to stay open. New rules for pig slaughterhouses may put pork and worker safety at risk. Families of cancer patients want the state to look at fracking. Actors get into character as creatures of the night. Plus, bad news for pumpkin lovers.

Pittsburgh restaurants are recycling oyster shells to help restore the Chesapeake Bay. We report from Scotland about how ethane from Pa.'s fracking boom is fueling the world's thirst for plastic.  Researchers are trying to figure out what's killing apple trees. Pennsylvania will join a regional cap-and-trade program for carbon emissions. Using artificial intelligence to predict landslides.