Environment

As part of Texas Public Radio's on-going focus on the environment, we are proud to bring the public and our members special events, stories and initiatives to help improve and draw attention to the city's health and environment.

How Did The South Texas Project Nuclear Power Plant Weather Harvey?

By • Oct 6, 2017
STP

When Hurricane Harvey hit the Texas coast the South Texas Project nuclear power plant was put through its toughest weather test since going online in 1988. After the storm, questions are being asked about the decisions made and public safety.

When Hurricane Harvey entered the Gulf of Mexico on August 23rd it quickly grew into a category 4 storm and the South Texas Project engaged its Severe Weather plan.

When It Comes To Items In Recycling Bins, What's Right And What's Wrong?

By editor • Oct 6, 2017

Ever wonder what happens when you recycle your milk jugs, paper and soda cans? And whether you’re recycling the right plastics?

Nashville Public Radio’s Emily Siner (@SinerSays) shares insight into how recycling works — and what happens if you’re not careful about what you throw into your recycling bin.

Could Turning Coastal Communities Into 'Sponge Cities' Make Them Less Likely To Flood?

By Michael Marks • Sep 27, 2017

From Texas Standard:

A full account of the lessons learned from Hurricane Harvey is still being tallied. But at least one thing is certain: planners will have to rethink the concrete bones upon which Houston is built. And not just Houston, but any coastal city at risk of serious flooding.

For so long, the main strategy of such a metropolis has been to fight against incoming water with pavement and pumps. It appears the latest thinking on the subject flips things around – embrace the water, don’t just repel it.

Firefighters Are Increasingly Banking On Helicopters To Battle Wildfires In Central Texas

By & • Aug 3, 2017

It’s been a pretty busy summer so far when it comes to fighting wildfires in Central Texas.

City Council Votes To Join Paris Climate Agreement

By • Jun 22, 2017
Joey Palacios / Texas Public Radio

The San Antonio City Council has approved participating in the Paris Climate Agreement.  In a 9-1 vote, San Antonio now joins 300 other cities in upholding the provisions of the accord.  

Accepting the Paris Climate Agreement is one of the first statements made by the new council. Mayor Ron Nirenberg says it sets the stage for future policy.

“Under the Obama Administration we decided that cities need to lead on climate issues and we sent mayors all around the country to Paris to come up with this accord,” Nirenberg said.

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