An initiative of the Center for Environmental Journalism at the University of Colorado Boulder

US Climate risks are rising – a scientist looks at the dangers her children...

A new report warns that humanity has a brief but rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a livable and sustainable future.
Maywood Riverfront Park was built on the site of eight former industrial properties in Los Angeles County. Luis Sinco/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

Flood maps show US vastly underestimates contamination risk at old industrial sites

Flooding in communities near former industrial sites threatens common pollution containment methods already in place.

To make less-harmful road salts, we’re studying natural antifreezes produced by fish

De-icing salts can pollute water bodies. Taking a page from nature, scientists hope to develop effective but more benign antifreeze compounds.

Nearly 60 million Americans don’t drink their tap water, research suggests – here’s why...

Water insecurity is an underrecognized but growing problem in the U.S. Tap water distrust is part of the problem.

New flood maps show US damage rising 26% in next 30 years due to...

Flooding is the most frequent and costliest natural disaster in the United States, and its costs are projected to rise as the climate warms.

As Colorado River Basin states confront water shortages, it’s time to focus on reducing...

Increasing water supply is no longer a viable option, so states must turn to reducing demand. Conservation remains the low-hanging fruit.
PFAS, often used in water-resistant gear, also find their way into drinking water and human bodies. CasarsaGuru via Getty Images

What are PFAS, and why is the EPA warning about them in drinking water?...

A dangerous chemical, known as PFAS, is found in everything from nonstick cookware to carpets to ski wax.
California wildfire photo

Another dangerous fire season is looming in the Western U.S., and the drought-stricken region...

Just about every indicator of drought is flashing red across the western U.S. after a dry winter and warm early spring.

‘Zero Day’ for California water? Not yet, but unprecedented water restrictions send a sharp...

California’s announcement represents uncharted territory and is meant to promote water conservation in what is already a dry water year.
Hoover Dam photo

Hydropower’s future is clouded by droughts, floods and climate change – it’s also essential...

As competition for water increases, the way hydropower is managed within regions and across the power grid in the U.S. will have to evolve.