News & Commentary

Meet the activists and NRDC staff propelling change, read our expert analysis, and learn about the latest challenges and solutions to advancing a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable world.

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Latest News

Stay on top of the latest research, policy updates, publication releases, and environmental news. 

Explainer

Get a breakdown of complex climate, public health, nature, and equity topics to inform your activism.

Dispatch

Read about activists tackling climate justice and other environmental causes in their communities and beyond.

Perspectives

Discover intersectional viewpoints from activists and artists on the environmental issues of the moment.

NRDC in Action

Find out how NRDC protects people and the planet by learning about some of our key fights.

Expert Blogs

Hear from our policy advocates, scientists, and litigators about the challenges and solutions for building a healthier and more just world.

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Is Bamboo Always Sustainable?

ExplainerUnited StatesShelia Hu

This versatile plant is popping up in more and more consumer products, but when it comes to eco-friendly shopping, the details matter.

Should Harmful Pesticides Come with Warning Labels?

ExplainerUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

As lawsuits over Roundup bloom and activists across the political spectrum push for safer foods, the issue of chemical company liability heads to the Supreme Court and beyond.

Microplastic Is Inside Your Body

ExplainerUnited States, InternationalSusan Cosier

As plastic pollution piles up across the globe, researchers are busy investigating the potential negative outcomes to our health.

“Chemical Recycling” Isn’t Actually Recycling.

ExplainerGeorgia, United StatesNicole Greenfield
Companies are trying to sell communities on a toxic solution to the plastic pollution crisis. The people of Macon, Georgia, saw through it. Will others?

Are My Denim Jeans Bad for the Environment?

ExplainerUnited States, ChinaCourtney Lindwall
Environmental reporter Tatiana Schlossberg, author of "Inconspicuous Consumption," says the American staple needs a 21st-century overhaul for the sake of our water, climate, and health.

Do Plastic Bag Bans Work?

ExplainerUnited States, InternationalCourtney Lindwall
NRDC scientist Jennifer Sass says yes and debunks the skeptics’ claim that in trying to wean ourselves off plastic bags, we’re only creating more troubles.

The Pesticide in Your Crisper Drawer

ExplainerUnited States, CaliforniaNicole Greenfield
Shown to be toxic to kids, chlorpyrifos is nevertheless still being sprayed on crops across the country—and making its way into our bodies. So why has the EPA refused to ban it?

Flint Drinking Water Settlement FAQ

ExplainerFlintNRDC

The residents of Flint, Michigan, will finally get their lead pipes replaced and have access to safe drinking water. Here's what you need to know.

The Petcoke Problem: Where to Store the Risky Tar Sands Refining By-Product

ExplainerUnited States, Canada, Chicago, Detroit, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Virginia
Petroleum coke, typically stored outdoors in big open piles, can blow right into nearby homes and cause serious health problems. Unsurprisingly, communities are fighting Big Oil to keep this noxious material out of their backyards.

Flexibility Test

ExplainerUnited States, New JerseyElizabeth Royte
Plastic-pouch food packaging is showing up everywhere—except at recycling facilities.