U.S. Steel fined $1.8 million for ‘rotten egg’-gas pollution near Pittsburgh
A county monitor exceeded limits for hydrogen sulfide 153 times in the last 2 years. A study showed the pollution was "entirely" from the Clairton Coke Works.
Health
U.S. Steel appealing nearly $900K air pollution fines
The Allegheny County Health Department issued the fines for visible emissions at the company’s Clairton Coke Works for infractions over the last nine months of 2021.
How to address the looming crisis of climate anxiety
As climate change worsens, the need will grow for mental health services. Some therapists are recommending climate action to ease worry. Others are advocating for community-based therapies to fill the gap.
Group highlights economic and public health costs of fracking
One study examined pregnant women who live near natural gas wells and their exposure to toxic chemicals like benzene.
Farmers often struggle with mental health. Officials hope a new helpline will change that
The helpline staff will understand agriculture: “They’re not going to tell a dairy farmer to take a two-week vacation.”
Fears of Harm from Solar Panels Disproven by Science
Solar energy is on the rise in Pennsylvania. Fears of toxic metals and higher temperatures from solar panels have been disproven by science.
Study finds elderly near fracking sites at higher risk of dying prematurely
Researchers looked at millions of Medicare records and found elderly people living downwind of fracking sites had a 3.1 percent increased risk of dying prematurely.
Rare but potentially deadly Deer Tick Virus found at high levels at a Clearfield County park
The virus, which can cause severe disease and even death in humans, was detected in 92 percent of black-legged ticks sampled at the municipal park. What exactly is Deer Tick Virus?
Despite moratorium, 2 million gallons of conventional oil and gas waste spread on Pa. roads since 2018
A loophole in state law allows drilling wastewater to be used on roads to suppress dust or melt ice, but it contains salts, metals and radioactive materials.
Coach for social change leaders offers support to overcome climate anxiety
Seth Bush of the Radical Support Collective says it’s normal to feel anxious about the state of the planet, and those feelings can be transformed into positive action.
