Latest posts
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In 1986, a California city began polishing sewage through constructed marshes
Arcata’s groundbreaking wastewater treatment approach utilizes beautifully designed constructed wetlands, turning once barren industrial land into a vibrant wildlife haven. This innovative system now attracts over 300 bird species migrating along the Pacific Flyway, providing not only a unique habitat but also recreational opportunities and educational experiences for the public. This remarkable civic initiative has…
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In the 1990s, New York chose wetlands over conventional storm sewers on Staten Island
In an innovative move, New York City has turned to its natural wetlands for stormwater management, resulting in significant cost savings. The Bluebelt initiative has replaced expensive underground drainage systems with revitalized waterways, integrating both green and grey infrastructure to manage runoff efficiently. This strategic framework not only safeguards and extends essential wetland areas but…
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Florida drained land for a giant subdivision in the 1960s; 2026 restoration reverses it
The Picayune Strand Restoration Project in Southwest Florida has been completed after years of work to restore the natural flow of water across 55,000 acres of wetlands. The project removed more than 260 miles of roads and plugged almost 50 miles of canals. The work is expected to improve wetlands, water quality and wildlife habitat.
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In 2001, Denmark began turning 19 km of straightened River Skjern into 26 km of bends
Denmark’s River Skjern is undergoing a restoration project aimed at reversing the environmental impact caused by historical drainage efforts. The river now floods more of its floodplain, but artificial channels hinder its natural dynamics. While some aquatic species are bouncing back, the diversity from its past remains largely absent. The limited recreation of key backwater…
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In 2010, Shanghai turned a polluted industrial brownfield into Houtan Park
Shanghai’s Houtan Park showcases the remarkable transformation of a contaminated industrial site into a thriving wetland that effectively purifies river water daily. The design cleverly integrates recycled materials, honoring local heritage while addressing waste reduction. Its ecological contributions include carbon sequestration and supporting wildlife recovery, setting a benchmark for urban flooding solutions and enriching communal…
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In 2023, Hoboken opened a 5.4-acre park on a former industrial site; its playgrounds can…
ResilienCity Park has officially opened in Hoboken, transforming a former industrial zone into a vital green space. This innovative park not only offers recreational facilities but also enhances the city’s defense against severe flooding. Employing both above and below-ground stormwater storage, it showcases efficient flood-control methods. Supported by federal, state, and county funding, the initiative…
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ICE arrests over 1,200 illegal immigrants in Georgia
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Ohio Uranium plant shut in 1989; $4.4 bn cleanup transformed site into green preserve
The Fernald uranium plant in Ohio stopped production in 1989 after nearly four decades of operations. A $4.4 billion environmental cleanup followed, involving radioactive waste, contaminated soil and groundwater. The 1,050-acre site was eventually transformed into the Fernald Preserve, with restored wetlands, prairie and forest. A Visitors Center now documents the site’s history and cleanup.
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Punch thrives after virality: Once-orphaned macaque turns 1
Punch, the orphaned Japanese macaque, joyously celebrated his first birthday, receiving heartfelt greetings from around the world. Now a part of a vibrant troop, he enjoys playful interactions and grooming sessions with fellow macaques. Generous donations funded significant upgrades to his enclosure, including plush toys from IKEA, and millions in contributions are set to enhance…
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How 10 billion trees transformed South Korea’s post-war forests