Environment & Science

Take a look at stories that ran throughout the week of which we are most proud, had a profound impact on readers or that you might want to look at again.

On Dec. 21 at approximately 10:27 p.m. EST, we’ll begin the winter solstice north of the equator. Will the change of season finally bring snow?

It might seem counterintuitive, but harvesting holiday trees year after year is better for the environment than using an artificial one, experts said, especially amid the proliferation of plastic piling up in landfills.

Officials on Wednesday reviewed several preliminary transportation policy strategies for the Valley's priority climate action plan. The plan’s focus is to reduce carbon emissions from transportation, a significant driver of greenhouse gas emissions across the region.

More than three dozen projects in the Valley were awarded grants, receiving about 7% of the total funding awarded. Statewide, $335 million in grants were announced Wednesday.

"Turn around, don't drown", warned a spokesperson for PennDOT. More than once today, people in the Valley have had to be rescued from their cars after driving into water that shut their engines off, trapping the drivers.

Some parts of the Lehigh Valley saw more than four inches of rain from Sunday into Monday, with precipitation still falling.

Schools are closing early and a large swath of the region is under a flood warning until at least 3:15 p.m. as the storm system that inundated the area overnight moves north.

The winter, or December, solstice takes place this year between sundown on Dec. 21 and sunrise Dec. 22

The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission at 11 a.m. on Wednesday is holding a meeting at its Allentown office to brainstorm and prioritize ways to decarbonize transportation across the region. Decarbonization is the process of reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide emissions.

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In a 260-year-old city, much of the infrastructure was built in another century, Mayor Matt Tuerk says.

Soltech Solutions, a Bethlehem start-up, helps 'bring nature indoors.'

The mayor and other officials defined some broad goals and initiatives including continuing to purchase 100% renewable electricity for all municipal operations,

Many who came to SteelStacks in Bethlehem found their roots in gardening during the pandemic.

Air quality in the Lehigh Valley got a 'C' grade for in 2021, up from a 'D' the year before.

The center will feature an exhibit of live otters and a 3-pond habitat.

Observers are expecting legal challenges to Pa.'s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

The winning Bangor team will go on to compete in a statewide competition next month.

Cynerio says the flaws could have allowed hackers to control the robots, open locked doors and watch patients.

Because the state isn't complying with its plan, the EPA will redirect money and step up its inspections.

Virtual public hearings on the new rules are set to begin this week.