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ICYMI: Highlights to Note, Quotes to Remember, Memes to Share & Reminder to Vote!

"Environmental news for busy people: ICYMI ends as Paul Rauber retires after 34 years with Sierra. Latest highlights inside."
Illustration by Peter Arkle

Environmental News of the Week for Busy People

Fri, 2024-07-26 02:00

Illustration by Peter Arkle

Jul 26 2024

For those paying attention, ICYMI: In Case You Missed It, this biweekly compilation of environmental news has been a feature of Sierra’s online offerings for seven years. Dating back a decade, it was a favorite in the print magazine under the heading Up to Speed. This edition, however, is the last one. Why? The earth hasn’t stopped warming:

Sunday, July 21, was the warmest day ever. Monday, July 22, was hotter.

Natural wonders haven’t ceased:

Something at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, unconnected to photosynthesis, is pumping out large amounts of oxygen.

The clean energy transition continues to defy expectations:

The pace of adoption of clean energy technology appears to be exponential.

And animals continue to surprise their human cousins:

A whale capsizes a fishing boat off the coast of New Hampshire.

ICYMI is not ending for lack of material. After 34 years with Sierra, its author is retiring.

Readers can judge its merits, but producing ICYMI brought biweekly joy. Collecting material involved combing through the daily environmental press, especially Politico’s E&E newsletters, The Guardian, and the Associated Press. Press releases were also a gold mine:

A new AI-powered service identifies visitors to backyard bird feeders, even letting you name and track individual birds.

Key to this column’s success was the artwork of illustrator Peter Arkle. His sketches were the highlight of my week, often met with gasps of astonishment and laughter. Without him, ICYMI would not have been possible.

The pleasure of producing ICYMI was counterbalanced by the often dismal subject matter, bearing witness to rapid environmental changes. It used to be extraordinary to note record heat; now it’s almost expected. Did absurdist content dilute the serious message?

Botswana threatens to deport 20,000 elephants to Germany.

Perhaps, but it also made it readable. Sierra once attempted a listing of Bad News events, dubbed Doom & Gloom From the Tomb. No one can subsist on bad news alone. That’s why ICYMI included hopeful items, though reality didn’t always cooperate. Absurdism often carried the burden of balancing tragedy.

“What will I do with these ICYMI items now?” a volunteer asked. The answer: Keep finding them. Take note of what’s happening in the world—the terrible but not inevitable disasters, the happy signs of progress:

A twice-yearly injection provides 100% protection against HIV/AIDS.

And all the ridiculous, unpredictable, hilarious things in between. Pay attention.

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Original Story at www.sierraclub.org

Trending News

COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024