Most Impactful Environmental Stories of 2023

1. Record-Breaking Number of Climate Disasters: In 2023, the US NOAA reported a record 28 extreme national disasters across the United States. From heat events to tornados and flooding, these disasters cost more than 92 billion dollars.  Climate change will continue to result in costly weather events that affect human lives. 
2. Northern Hemisphere Heat Waves: In the summer, Europe, Southern U.S. and China reached record-high temperatures that caught many off-guard. As more greenhouse gases collect in our atmosphere, intense heat waves will continue to disrupt the ecosystem and impact our safety and health.
3. Maui Wildfire: The Maui fire in August devastated Lahaina and affected the entire island economically. Although the true cause is still up to debate, one major contributor is climate change.  High winds and low humidity due to drought conditions were likely the initial trigger. Disaster events like the Maui fires highlight the importance of environmental readiness and preparation.
4. Smoky, Red Skies on the East Coast. In June, New York was under red and apocalyptic-appearing skies for days. Smoke from the Canadian wildfires filled the atmosphere with the most unhealthy air quality on record in New York City.  As global warming continues, wildfires will be a mainstream story even in the major metropolitan areas.
5. Anthropogenic Earthquakes: March A new study in March revealed that the 5.6 magnitude earthquake in Alberta Canada was actually human-induced. This is the first study to show that Injection of wastewater underground could trigger seismic activity many hundreds of miles away.  We need to consider how our actions underground can affect human safety.
6. Environmental Injustice The 2023 "State of the Air" Report by The American Lung Association notes that 1 in 3 people live in areas with unhealthy pollution. Their data suggests that unhealthy air pollution disproportionately affects low income communities and people of color. Environmental hazards should not be left unchecked in some areas; everyone deserves the right to breathe in clean air.​