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A NY hospital tried to close its birthing center. This city united to fight back
Democrats and Republicans in Troy, New York, took on a national Catholic health system and kept the county's last birthing center open.
What can seashells teach us about the health of our oceans?
Seashells: They're beautiful remnants to carry home from the beach—and so much more! According to environmental journalist Cynthia Barnett, seashells record history more accurately than the humans who first wrote it down. In this episode, we talk about the science of seashells, their impact on humankind and the scientist behind a very famous tongue twister.Check out Cynthia’s book The Sound of the Sea and check out Emily’s reporting on sandcastles.Interested in more marine biology stories? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s hperks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
Fly fishing program aims to curb isolation, boost mental health for disabled veterans
A Northstate nonprofit group is offering a variety of fly fishing programs to benefit disabled veterans.
Health Brief: More drugmakers cut pricing deals
Plus: Nonprofits break down foreign aid cuts amid Trump administration shift to global health strategy
Some registered Delaware voters can still choose a political party prior to voting in the primary
Voters automatically registered to vote at the DMV can still choose a party and vote in the 2026 Delaware Primary Election.
Trump officials cut political interference ban after unusual Census Bureau report
After the Census Bureau issued a report tied to a Trump-aligned think tank, the bureau's parent agency cut language banning political interference from its scientific integrity policy, NPR learned.
What does the Lindsay Clancy trial tell us about treating maternal mental health?
Lindsay Clancy is currently on trial for killing her three children.Prosecutors say the murders were intentional, but her defense team says she was suffering from severe postpartum psychosis -- a condition that does not have a distinct diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.That's the handbook used to identify mental health conditions, so patients often have a hard time getting proper care.The case has put a spotlight on maternal mental health and how its treated by the public and healthcare professionals. What does it reveal?WBUR’s Deborah Becker contributed reporting to this episode.It was produced by Megan Lim and Karen Zamora, with audio engineering by Éowyn Fain, Hannah Gluvna and Ted Mebane. Our director is Jonas Adams.It was edited by Justine Kenin and Tinbete Ermyas.Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
Ground breaks on $50 million sports and entertainment complex in Amherst
Located near ice rinks, softball diamonds and a golf course, the privately funded project is seen as the next step in making Maple Avenue a sports hub.
State health officials confirm rabies at mobile petting zoo
Several goats at Farm Adventures in Iredell County have tested positive for rabies and may have been in direct contact with people at events while infected.
Democracy Works: Political status and the DSA summer
For our first episode of the fall season, we talk with a social movement scholar about whether the DSA's policies can win over enough votes to win in a general election and why political coalitions don't always align with the structure of America's two-party system.
Berkeley’s trailblazing adaptive sports nonprofit BORP turns 50
Long the “only game in town” for physically disabled athletes, it launched the country’s first power soccer program in the ’80s.
Pro-AI group jumps into the data center fight with new ads aimed at reshaping public opinion
The nonprofit group Build American AI is launching a multimillion-dollar ad campaign in Kansas, Ohio and Wisconsin to promote its data center agenda.
The Plaza brings new businesses and a community gathering space to downtown Corvallis
The Plaza in downtown Corvallis has transformed a former JC Penney into a community space featuring cafes, art studios, event spaces, and local business offices.
Canada claps back at Trump's efforts to rename Lake Ontario as 'Lake America'
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has unveiled a giant billboard reading: "Lake Ontario — Now and Always." But tech giant Google has said it is renaming the lake for U.S. users, as President Trump demanded.
Lane County caregiving business becomes employee-owned
Lane County caregiving business Rise & Shine Social Enterprise has become Oregon's first employee-owned business of its kind, aiming to reduce staff turnover and support community care.
‘We are excited about the future’: Aiken and Florence healthcare providers announce intent to merge
Aiken-based Rural Health Services has announced intent to merge with HopeHealth, another nonprofit that provides primary and specialty health care services.
How a comic book store got swept into the tariff storm
Tariffs continue to rile all kinds of American businesses more than a year after Trump unveiled his first set of tariffs — including a comic book store owner in Ohio.
Medicare's pilot GLP-1 discount program has a catch. Some sick patients don't qualify
Medicare launched a pilot program that could streamline the process to get GLP-1s, with some seniors paying just $50 a month. But many people with the most serious illnesses won't get that discount.
Trump administration deports relative of Afghans who helped US military to Central African Republic
His family in Afghanistan had received threats from the Taliban because of the work performed by his brothers in support of the U.S. military.
Opinion | Behind the Nepal-China border floods lie bad politics
While the solidarity on display in the wake of the disaster is commendable, the tragedy must not be viewed as an unpredictable, unpreventable act of nature.
AI chatbots may be better than search engines in guarding against foreign propaganda
In a test, popular AI chatbots mostly debunked falsehoods spread by other countries and avoided uncritically spreading falsehoods better than search engines. AI summaries above search results fared worse.
Olivia Rodrigo's festival is uniting women and girls behind nonprofits promoting their well-being
Olivia Rodrigo is fundraising for women's well-being with a benefit show geared toward her young audience. The Daisy Chain Fields festival boasts a lineup that includes Chappell Roan, Doechii and...
Milestone Anniversaries: Alston Construction
On Aug. 11, we hosted a dinner at The Jacquelyn social club in in Midtown Sacramento with leaders of local businesses and nonprofits that are celebrating milestone anniversaries this year. Alston Construction Company was among the participants.
Herring Gut Coastal Science Center's Learn-Discover-Grow Series: OCEAN GREENS
Seaweed in the past has been a misunderstood part of our marine world. Until recently it has always been seen through the lens of a slimy gross weed that no one likes to touch while swimming. Now, seaweed is being seen as a way to help diversify careers, feed livestock, and help solve climate change. This Learn Discover Grow event will focus on highlighting the importance of seaweed and how mid coast businesses are utilizing these ocean greens. First we will watch the film “Ocean Greens” (link below) online at the WaterBear network. We will then take time to talk to our wonderful guest speakers about how they use seaweed in their business! Our speakers are, Allison Lakin from Lakin’s Gorges Cheese, Gabriela Acero from wolfpeach, and Lauren & Greg Soutiea from the Causeway Restaurant at the Craignair. Watch the video ahead of time: Title of video: Ocean Greens Link: https://www.waterbear.com/player/62389235111f77a1b677ded9 Create an account, it's free. Guest speakers: Allison Lakin, Lakin’s Gorges Cheese at East Forty Farm Gabriela Acero, Wolfpeach Lauren & Greg Soutiea, The Causeway Restaurant REGISTRANTS WILL RECEIVE A ZOOM LINK PRIOR TO THE EVENT
NASA’s Roman Space Telescope is about to change how we see the universe
NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is set to give scientists an unprecedented wide view of the universe, helping investigate dark energy and dark matter, chart the evolution of galaxies and aid in the discovery of planets beyond our solar system.
Arisa Health names new chief financial officer
Arisa Health, a Springdale-based behavioral healthcare system, said its chief financial officer, Keith Faught, recently left the role and has joined another organization. The nonprofit has promoted Brian Lutz, vice...
Arisa Health names new chief financial officer
Arisa Health, a Springdale-based behavioral healthcare system, said its chief financial officer, Keith Faught, recently left the role and has joined another organization. The nonprofit has promoted Brian Lutz, vice...
Arisa Health names new chief financial officer
Arisa Health, a Springdale-based behavioral healthcare system, said its chief financial officer, Keith Faught, recently left the role and has joined another organization. The nonprofit has promoted Brian Lutz, vice...
Money and Politics in Delaware: August 29, 2026
Money and Politics in Delaware is your link to finance, business and policy in the First State.
Trump cuts to science advisory boards have long-lasting consequences, researchers say
The federal government recruits top experts to volunteer to advise on pressing research issues of the day. Since President Trump took office, hundreds of these experts have been dismissed.
24th Annual BioBlitz at Seacoast Science Center
Join Seacoast Science Center on Sunday, September 20, 2026 for the 24th BioBlitz, the non-profits annual community science event in Odiorne Point State Park. Families and nature enthusiasts team up with SSC naturalists and guest experts to explore the Park’s habitats to find and identify as many different species as possible in just one day! BioBlitz is a great way to get kids (and adults!) excited about science, learn about the park’s biodiversity, and discover how you can help protect our natural world.Like an extreme nature scavenger hunt, BioBlitz offers many opportunities for all ages to gain knowledge and hone skills in their favorite areas of nature! Habitat, plant, and animal explorations are scheduled throughout the day, allowing participants to choose among activities that interest them the most. With seven distinct natural habitats to survey, there’s something for everyone! Explorations include tide pools, mammals, seine netting, salt marsh, mushrooms, and more (see full schedule online, subject to change). Find all the details on the BioBlitz web page, and get your tickets to explore with SSC: https://www.seacoastsciencecenter.org/events-overview/bioblitz
Trump says U.S. has entered deal with Venezuela to take control of 65 billion barrels of oil reserves
President Trump says his administration has entered a sweeping agreement with Venezuela that could give the U.S. access to vast amounts of the South American country's untapped oil reserves, at cost.
Florence and Aiken healthcare providers HopeHealth and Rural Health Services to merge
Nonprofit healthcare provider HopeHealth and Rural Health Services (RHS) announced plans to merge operations into a single community health center to serve Flor
N.C. congressman Edwards asks House colleagues not to censure him
The chamber's Ethics Committee this month issued a report that found he engaged in unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two female aides.
Oklahoma officials outline progress on Rural Health Transformation Program initiatives
The update comes as Oklahoma prepares to enter the second budget period of a five-year federal funding opportunity meant to transform rural health.
Lee Health drops United Healthcare as in-network provider
Lee Health, the system that dominates Lee County in terms of hospitals and clinics, has abruptly announced that it is dropping United Healthcare as an in-network provider as of 2027.
TN Politics: Some county legal fees come due; MLGW wraps up storm restoration
Legal expenses for the MSCS takeover and Wanda Halbert litigations should advise future intra-government battles, says Otis Sanford.
So long to shorts? In Silicon Valley, tech workers are showing less leg
Men in the tech industry are covering up their legs, even as their counterparts in finance are increasingly open to showing them off.
Businesses are getting tariff refunds. Why aren't consumers getting their cut?
A slew of American companies are getting billions of dollars back in tariff refunds after a Supreme Court ruling. Many consumers, though, may never get anything back.
What a fake poll reveals about worries around prediction markets and the midterms
While a stunt involving fake polls may not have been an effort to rig prediction markets, concerns are growing ahead of the midterms about other attempts to influence the betting sites.
Saul Williams opens a portal between politics and possibility
The unflinching multidisciplinary artist has long welcomed new challenges. With the release of a new album and a new book, he embraces the role his career has been building toward: investigative poet.
Dolly’s generosity to Vanderbilt Health highlighted; reading test results before your doctor has a chance; staying healthy this fall; plus other stories with Vanderbilt Health sources
Dolly Parton’s generosity to Vanderbilt Health was mentioned in many of her obituaries. A sampling: The New York Times, the BBC, NPR, NBC News, The Guardian, and Scripps News. Vanderbilt Health News posted a tribute to her, as well, and Mark Denison, MD, Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics and former director of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, spoke to NewsNation for a story about her impact on his research. Everyday Health interviewed Trent Rosenbloom, MD, MPH, Professor of Biomedical Informatics, for a story about a new JAMA study that found two-thirds of patients read test results before connecting with a doctor. Comprehension of test results varied: 6.6 percent said they had a poor understanding, 26.8 percent understood the results fairly well, 31.7 percent understood them well, and 34.9 percent understood the results very well. William Schaffner, MD, Professor of Preventive Medicine, was quoted by several news outlets about public health issues, including: Healthline (cyclosporiasis cases now in 47 states); “The Naked Scientists” podcast (salmonella outbreak sickens hundreds); Medscape (the lighter-than-usual just-completed Australian flu season); and People (how to stay healthy this fall). Scripps News interviewed Jessica Young, MD, Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, about Vanderbilt researchers launching a study to determine if GLP-1 drugs can help people with opioid use disorder. WSMV Channel 4 News reporter Diana Rocco interviewed Kashish Goel, MBBS, Associate Professor of Medicine and Director of Transcatheter Heart Valve Interventions, for a story about patient Dixie Watt and her minimally invasive valve replacement with the M3 device, the first Food and Drug Administration-approved transseptal transcatheter mitral valve replacement. Fogarty International Center writer/editor Susan Scutti interviewed John Koethe, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, for a profile article for their newsletter, Global Health Matters. The article presents him as an example of a Fogarty Fellow success story and focus on his past and present research, including the HIV/AIDS research he conducted for his Fogarty project at the Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Zambia in 2008 and 2009.
Joel Sandridge & Jim Donaghue
Mather, a nonprofit organization with a mission of creating Ways to Age Well, announces Joel Sandridge as Vice President of Design and Construction.
Trump directs federal government to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America
President Trump signed an executive order on Thursday directing the federal government to rename Lake Ontario amid an escalating trade dispute with Canada .
Primary conversations: Manzur says it’s time to break donors’ grip on party politics
Senate Democratic candidate Karishma Manzur lives in Exeter, serves as a volunteer with progressive organizations and has a background in medical science.
Introducing Ideastream's full-time science reporter: Me
Jeff St.Clair steps away from the host chair to become Ideastream's full-time science reporter
What climate science tells us about the causes of the Colorado River crisis
Researchers have grown increasingly confident in global warming’s role in post-2000 ‘megadrought’ and its impact on the Colorado River.
Rwandans love their milk bars. The health minister wishes they'd drink a little less
A big glass of moo juice — no, make that several glasses a day — is common in Rwanda. Is that too much of a good thing?
Jon Ossoff, usually a head down senator, has found a formula to excite Democrats
Ossoff should be among the most vulnerable Senate incumbents this year. Instead, the Georgia Democrat has opened a steady lead in polls and is increasingly seen as a potential 2028 contender.
Del Ray Business Association presents $10,511 to Scholarship Fund of Alexandria
Proceeds from the sixth annual Bands & Brews bar crawl go to a nonprofit that has awarded more than $24 million in scholarships since 1986; DRBA happy hour also introduces new member Continues Arcade
‘Thank God’ – Fans react to NFL becoming the first major U.S. sports league to cancel Pro Bowl game
The NFL has taken the unprecedented step of cancelling their version of the All-Star Game, the Pro Bowl, from the 2026-27 season. The tradition of All-Star games being one of the biggest nights of a sports league’s calendar is an antiquated notion, as players are more focused on protecting themselves than playing in an exhibition.
St. Louis-based geospatial nonprofit launches AI innovation center with support from major tech firms
The local initiative is backed by some of the biggest companies in the rapidly-growing AI industry.
Future remains uncertain for U.S. federal funding of behavioral, cognitive science
The National Science Foundation did not include any solicitations for its social, behavioral and economic sciences directorate in its latest round of funding opportunities, nor replace any outgoing program officers—which poses an existential threat for the program, says nonprofit executive Wendy Naus.
Thousands of Alaskans to see health insurance costs rise sharply, after years of increases
Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alaska's rates on the marketplace have already nearly doubled over the past five years, according to recent reporting by the Anchorage Daily News.
States try new tactics to bring down high hospital prices
Indiana is the latest state to experiment with limiting what hospitals can charge, to try to get a handle on high health costs.
Parents of transgender kids say California is ‘unprepared’ as feds cut off their healthcare
Parents of transgender kids warned California for months. State officials are rushing to find money before the Oct. 13 deadline.
Maine's top elections official says its 'business as usual' despite Supreme Court ruling
The Supreme Court overturned a lower court's ruling that blocked the Trump administration from trying to change mail-in voting processes. But the court did not rule on the larger issue.
Catch the King: Engaging Students in Community Science
WHRO Educators recently spent time with local teachers to show them how their students can join in a community-wide citizen science initiative.
‘Michiganders for Money Out of Politics’ petition taken up in the House
The Michigan House took up a ballot measure Tuesday to curb political donations from some of Michigan’s public utilities and government contractors. Lawmakers passed the initiative by a large margin.
CHRISTUS Health awards nonprofits with grants to support health of East Texas communities
Health: The DRC Ebola Outbreak Is Spreading At A Rapid Pace. Why?
The current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the deadliest in the country’s history.With over 2,500 deaths and more than 5,000 confirmed cases, it’s now the second largest ever worldwide. And it’s spreading at record speed. It’s even outpacing the West Africa outbreak that killed more than 11,000 people between 2014 and 2016.What do we know about why this outbreak is moving so quickly?Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.
Chronic conditions persist in Alaska, but there are bright spots in latest health report
A state status report shows mixed results for well-being using a holistic approach with factors like food and housing security, environmental stress and education.
ESPN expands sports content on Disney+ with College Football Saturdays this fall
ESPN and Disney+ are expanding the sports content offerings on Disney+ with the debut of College Football Saturdays
Unisun Sports announce landmark multi-conference media rights agreement with ESPN
On behalf of the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) and the United Athletic Conference (UAC), Unisun Sports announced a groundbreaking long-term media rights
FAMU's College of Agriculture & Food Science holds its Grape Harvest Festival
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University has an annual Grape Harvest Festival that showcases the variety of grapes grown at the Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit.
House Speaker Mike Johnson headed to New Mexico to campaign for Greg Cunningham against Gabe Vasquez
House Speaker Mike Johnson is headed to New Mexico on Tuesday to campaign with Greg Cunningham, the Republican candidate looking to oust Democratic Congressman Gabe Vasquez in the sprawling Second Congressional District covering Southern New Mexico and Albuquerque’s Westside. This story was originally published at New Mexico Political Report, a nonprofit news service covering politics […]
Pa. skill games could disappear in October. Businesses that rely on them are worried.
A state Supreme Court ruling could force skill games out of businesses and nonprofits unless lawmakers agree on how to regulate and tax them.
Health officials warn of 'unprecedented' blood shortage
NJ is one of many states now facing a lack of blood products. The NY Blood Center declared an “unprecedented” second blood emergency in July.
Fort Worth mental health nonprofit launches youth trauma and grief collaborative
With the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, Soar is training 180 school clinicians in trauma and grief therapy.
A new survey suggests teen mental health in Vermont is finally improving
About a quarter — 23% — of high school students in Vermont reported being sad or hopeless in 2025. That’s significantly down from a high of 31% in 2019.
Highmark Health Plans appoints new president
Highmark Health Plans — the Pittsburgh based nonprofit that insures nearly 8 million people — has a new president. Gustavo “Gus” Giraldo will begin effective immediately, parent company Highmark Health announced Monday. Giraldo comes most recently from CVS Health-owned Aetna, where he served as senior vice president of individual and
Washington nonprofit pushes fire departments across country to update pregnancy policies
SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity names new executive director
Carlos Gonzalez-Jaime is a veteran museum and nonprofit leader who will officially begin on the first day of October.
As students head back to school, some may be on sports teams with players from other districts
Michael Bisson, who runs the Interscholastic Division at the Maine Principals Association, said that as enrollments have declined, schools have had to work together to field full teams.
The Petitti Paradox: Big Ten commissioner has built a career pushing convention
Tony Petitti has overseen unprecedented on-field success at the Big Ten, but the commissioner remains a somewhat mysterious figure to those outside the league.
Allegheny Health Network launches clinic for advanced COPD patients
Based at AHN Allegheny General Hospital and the Breathing Disorders Center at the AHN McCandless Outpatient Center, the clinic has been operating for about two months.
Nancy Kassebaum swung open the door for Kansas women in politics
Kassebaum’s legacy is one of moderation, bipartisanship and paving the way for Kansas women to ascend to high office in Kansas. Kassebaum died Aug. 21, 2026, at the age of 94.
U.S. businesses are getting tariff refunds. Will customers get any money back?
Companies have received tariff refunds. What about consumers? Some companies are providing refunds while others decline.
High-intensity sprints can trigger molecular changes in the bloodstream
A new study finds that an all-out sprint may have unique benefits when it comes to the proteins and tiny molecules in your bloodstream.
Meet HBJ’s 2026 CT Business Excellence Awards honorees
Connecticut Business Excellence Awards will recognize companies and nonprofits statewide for business success, innovation and community service.
How much has the U.S.’s wildlife changed since Lewis and Clark?
Ever wish you could have been part of the Lewis and Clark expedition? Us too. The Corps of Discovery came across scores of plants and animals that were new to Western science: Grizzly bears, ponderosa pines, a “barking squirrel” that William Clark would later call the prairie dog. A modern effort is underway to see how much the country’s wildlife has changed in the 220-some years since their journey. Host Nate Rott tags along with some scientists re-surveying a part of the expedition’s route in western Montana. And he wishes he was in better shape.Interested in more science in the news? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
Could politics put your city's funding at risk?
The Trump administration recently admitted to pulling grants over politics. This practice could become more common. How do cities use grant money, and how will they adapt?Fact checking by Sierra Juarez.Your Next Listen — How far can philanthropy go to fill government gaps?Connect with The Indicator — Sign up for The Indicator’s weekly newsletter! — Buy the Planet Money book — Find our socials, YouTube and more! — For sponsor-free episodes, subscribe to NPR+ Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
A deep dive into climate change
Some policymakers continue to question the science of climate change, despite the growing evidence of significant damage to life on land and in the ocean.Katja Matthes, director of the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel in Germany, believes the ongoing attempts to politicise climate science and discredit researchers are hindering international cooperation and public understanding. The ocean provides clear evidence of the extent to which changes are occurring, she says.“We are seeing severe, unprecedented and accelerating changes in the ocean — warming ocean temperatures, acidification and oxygen depletion — that are destabilising the most important system that makes life on this planet possible,” Matthes explains. Visible signs of these changes include the melting of ice sheets in the Arctic and Greenland. Deeper down, the growing frequency of hypoxia — or oxygen-deprived “dead zones”, where marine life can no longer survive — in the Baltic and record-high Mediterranean surface temperatures are indicators of the “dramatic warming” of the ocean, she adds.The ocean, which covers around 70% of the Earth’s surface, acts as a vital carbon sink, absorbing around 30% of the planet’s carbon dioxide (CO2) and 90% of the excess heat. However, the global ocean surface temperature has risen by an average of half a degree Celsius since 1982, according to the EU Copernicus observatory. More significant rises have been recorded in the Mediterranean, Black, Baltic and other shallower seas.Some ocean temperature increases do occur naturally, such as during El Niño events. But sustained rises can trigger extreme weather on land — including droughts, floods and catastrophic storms — while also harming marine ecosystems. Only 10% of marine species have been studied, Matthes notes, “so the consequences might be even more severe than we know.”Fostering European cooperation amid uncertaintyMatthes, who holds a doctorate in meteorology, is a professor of atmospheric physics as well as director of GEOMAR. She serves as one of Kiel’s ambassadors to Science Comes to Town (SCTT), an EU-funded programme that aims to promote science’s role in society and strengthen cross-border collaboration in research, innovation and sustainability. SCTT is hosted by the coastal cities of Kiel, Brest (in France) and Split (in Croatia).The SCTT project also provides a platform for raising awareness and understanding between scientists and the public about major issues, such as climate change. Having worked on both sides of the Atlantic, Matthes is frustrated by recent attempts to erode decades of international climate collaboration and question the credibility of research. Earlier this year, the US administration delivered a major blow to global cooperation by withdrawing from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and other global climate organisations, claiming they were “contrary to the interests of the United States.”In addition, a US Department of Energy (DOE) report cast doubt on the latest IPCC climate assessment, which was published in 2024. As a contributing author to the IPCC study, Matthes says the DOE sought to discredit scientists like herself. “Climate change is not a matter of opinion, it really exists and we are witnessing dramatic changes,” she notes. “It’s not climate change as a whole that is being targeted, but scientists and their research.”Other US actions have also hit home for Matthes, who spent three years at the US National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado. The White House has announced plans to close the facility, a move that was “pretty tough” due to the German scientist’s personal connections with the staff and their reputation for excellence.Changing the narrative on climate changeEurope’s scientific community remains a driving force on climate research and collaboration. As one of the world’s leading marine research institutions, GEOMAR attracts students from more than 50 countries and plays an important role in global observation initiatives that contribute to understanding and protecting the ocean basins. At a European level, GEOMAR works closely with other top marine research facilities, including France’s Ifremer, an SCTT partner in Brest. GEOMAR has also developed innovative and safe strategies for removing unexploded wartime munitions from the seabed, which release toxic substances that pose a danger to humans and the marine environment. Through the Horizon Europe MMinE-SwEEPER project, this knowledge has been transferred to the European level.These initiatives are examples of how local action can have a global impact, Matthes says, and how Europe can strengthen climate research and partnerships. “This is a chance for Europe to step up and work on climate cooperation and agreements,” she notes. “Climate change is an international problem and a real threat, and we need more speed on climate action than we have now.”Matthes believes her fellow scientists need to communicate that climate change is not only a threat, but an opportunity to find solutions. “We need to change our narrative and expand our strategic alliances with those who are willing,” she says, “and luckily there are a lot of willing people and countries.”Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
A deep dive into climate change
Some policymakers continue to question the science of climate change, despite the growing evidence of significant damage to life on land and in the ocean.Katja Matthes, director of the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel in Germany, believes the ongoing attempts to politicise climate science and discredit researchers are hindering international cooperation and public understanding. The ocean provides clear evidence of the extent to which changes are occurring, she says.“We are seeing severe, unprecedented and accelerating changes in the ocean — warming ocean temperatures, acidification and oxygen depletion — that are destabilising the most important system that makes life on this planet possible,” Matthes explains. Visible signs of these changes include the melting of ice sheets in the Arctic and Greenland. Deeper down, the growing frequency of hypoxia — or oxygen-deprived “dead zones”, where marine life can no longer survive — in the Baltic and record-high Mediterranean surface temperatures are indicators of the “dramatic warming” of the ocean, she adds.The ocean, which covers around 70% of the Earth’s surface, acts as a vital carbon sink, absorbing around 30% of the planet’s carbon dioxide (CO2) and 90% of the excess heat. However, the global ocean surface temperature has risen by an average of half a degree Celsius since 1982, according to the EU Copernicus observatory. More significant rises have been recorded in the Mediterranean, Black, Baltic and other shallower seas.Some ocean temperature increases do occur naturally, such as during El Niño events. But sustained rises can trigger extreme weather on land — including droughts, floods and catastrophic storms — while also harming marine ecosystems. Only 10% of marine species have been studied, Matthes notes, “so the consequences might be even more severe than we know.”Fostering European cooperation amid uncertaintyMatthes, who holds a doctorate in meteorology, is a professor of atmospheric physics as well as director of GEOMAR. She serves as one of Kiel’s ambassadors to Science Comes to Town (SCTT), an EU-funded programme that aims to promote science’s role in society and strengthen cross-border collaboration in research, innovation and sustainability. SCTT is hosted by the coastal cities of Kiel, Brest (in France) and Split (in Croatia).The SCTT project also provides a platform for raising awareness and understanding between scientists and the public about major issues, such as climate change. Having worked on both sides of the Atlantic, Matthes is frustrated by recent attempts to erode decades of international climate collaboration and question the credibility of research. Earlier this year, the US administration delivered a major blow to global cooperation by withdrawing from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and other global climate organisations, claiming they were “contrary to the interests of the United States.”In addition, a US Department of Energy (DOE) report cast doubt on the latest IPCC climate assessment, which was published in 2024. As a contributing author to the IPCC study, Matthes says the DOE sought to discredit scientists like herself. “Climate change is not a matter of opinion, it really exists and we are witnessing dramatic changes,” she notes. “It’s not climate change as a whole that is being targeted, but scientists and their research.”Other US actions have also hit home for Matthes, who spent three years at the US National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado. The White House has announced plans to close the facility, a move that was “pretty tough” due to the German scientist’s personal connections with the staff and their reputation for excellence.Changing the narrative on climate changeEurope’s scientific community remains a driving force on climate research and collaboration. As one of the world’s leading marine research institutions, GEOMAR attracts students from more than 50 countries and plays an important role in global observation initiatives that contribute to understanding and protecting the ocean basins. At a European level, GEOMAR works closely with other top marine research facilities, including France’s Ifremer, an SCTT partner in Brest. GEOMAR has also developed innovative and safe strategies for removing unexploded wartime munitions from the seabed, which release toxic substances that pose a danger to humans and the marine environment. Through the Horizon Europe MMinE-SwEEPER project, this knowledge has been transferred to the European level.These initiatives are examples of how local action can have a global impact, Matthes says, and how Europe can strengthen climate research and partnerships. “This is a chance for Europe to step up and work on climate cooperation and agreements,” she notes. “Climate change is an international problem and a real threat, and we need more speed on climate action than we have now.”Matthes believes her fellow scientists need to communicate that climate change is not only a threat, but an opportunity to find solutions. “We need to change our narrative and expand our strategic alliances with those who are willing,” she says, “and luckily there are a lot of willing people and countries.”Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Nonprofits are helping musicians pay for insurance in Austin, Texas, and beyond
A nonprofit and a local public health agency are subsidizing marketplace health insurance for Austin musicians , even as rising healthcare costs make the program more expensive.
Becerra, running for governor of California, faces a health insurance problem
The nation's uninsured rate hit a historical low when Xavier Becerra was health secretary. Now he wants to be California's next governor as Trump's actions have driven people off health insurance.
Maroon 5’s Narragansett concert set list: Every song Adam Levine sang
🎶 From “This Love” to “Moves Like Jagger,” see every song Maroon 5 played during its packed beach concert in Narragansett. 🌊🎤 #Maroon5 #RhodeIsland #AdamLevine
Science & Medicine: Communicating with Aphasia
When Bruce Willis, an action movie star known for his way with words, started to lose his language skills, it made news. He had aphasia.
Hillsborough Commission candidates talk Rays, property taxes and indigent health care
There was a lot of back-and-forth between the candidates during the discussion at the Tampa Tiger Bay Club.
Disaster loans available for businesses impacted by Spring freeze
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — Business and nonprofits impacted by the Spring freeze earlier this year can now apply for federal disaster loans. The Small Business Administration announced this week that bu...
Arkansas baseball players spend Saturday teaching youngsters, building camaraderie
Most of the kids were players in the Fayetteville Youth Baseball league, which partnered with the nonprofit Champions for Youth Foundation.
A veteran political reporter shares the lessons she learned hearing from swing voters
As a political correspondent, NPR's Ashley Lopez regularly speaks to voters about their worries, and their dreams. But finding swing voters in swing states — the people who can decide elections — can be a difficult assignment. For this week’s Reporter’s Notebook, Lopez talks about her larger takeaways from working on NPR’s Swing Voter Project. This episode was produced by Kai McNamee.It was edited by Ben Swasey and Adam Raney.Our interim executive producer is Courtney Dorning.Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org.
Trump threatens lawsuit against nonprofit that questioned whether National Guard plan lessened crime
The letter gave the Washington, D.C.-based Center for American Progress until the end of business Friday to issue the retraction or face a $5 billion lawsuit. The center declined.
Congo receives more than 16,000 doses of Ebola vaccine as it grapples with unprecedented outbreak
The current Ebola outbreak in Congo is caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, which currently has no approved treatment or vaccine.
Tim Steller’s column: Contract dispute shows Tucson politics changing
For Star subscribers: The controversy over a Pima County grant to a small nonprofit shows how Tucson politics are changing, as a new political group challenges the dominant network.
Kansas political trailblazer Nancy Landon Kassebaum Baker dies at 94
Kassebaum was known as a moderate with an appreciation for bipartisanship on domesic and international affairs during 18 years in Washington, D.C.
Political parties see high stakes in NC Supreme Court election
Anita Earls and Sarah Stevens compete for voters’ attention and make case for why people should back them in race for NC Supreme Court seat.
Science Behind the Forecast: Tracking lightning in Louisville’s thunderstorms
Every week WAVE 3 meteorologist Tawana Andrew breaks down what we know and what we don't about the climate and weather here in Louisville.
After prison release, Tina Peters takes her election conspiracy roadshow to Washington
Two months into her post-prison life, notorious election denier Tina Peters traveled to Washington for high-level meetings this week with Trump administration officials, pitching them on her sweeping plan to declare a national emergency and assert unprecedented federal control over elections before the November midterms.
Music on top of the world
“The whole experience felt kind of analogous for my life — mountains and music,” Dugan Irby said.