Editor’s Letter: Introducing Our May/June 2025 Issue
A note from the editor-in-chief
Environment
Biden Administration Waives 26 Laws to Accelerate Border Wall Construction
On the campaign trail, the president once promised there would “not be another foot” constructed under his watch.
Texas Bets on Undersea Carbon Capture, Despite Concerns
Critics worry about leakage through rock layers, pipeline safety and the lackluster record of the technology onshore.
‘It Will Take the Breath Out of You’: Prisoners Describe Extreme Nighttime Heat in Texas Units
TDCJ will allocate $85 million to provide more air conditioning. In the meantime, people are sweltering in their beds.
The Free People’s Village: Everyday Life in Solarpunk Texas
In a novelist’s alternative Texas, Al Gore became president and the War on Climate Change began. What could go wrong?
Record Summer Heat Causes Costly Damage to State Water Infrastructure
Conservationists are frustrated as cities contend with thousands of costly leaks as dry soil contracts, causing underground pipes to rupture.
As Springs Dry Up, a Warning of Future Water Shortages
Heat, drought and booming population growth have stressed the aquifers that supply millions of people.
From Phoenix to Austin, Weeks of ‘Brutal’ Heat Stagger the Southwest
More than a third of the country faced some kind of heat advisory over the weekend.
Texas Wastes Renewable Energy During June Heatwave
Solar and wind input is setting records, but the state’s inefficient grid is unable to handle the full load it could deliver in the ongoing heat wave.
Pipeline Operators Release or Flare Tons of Gas During June Heatwave
One company, Targa Resources, vented more than 500,000 pounds of toxins into the air during 17 reported events over a week-long period of extreme heat.