A pilot program from UMaine’s Mitchell Center found big reductions in school cafeteria food waste, and a toolkit rolled out this fall will help schools prepare for a food waste ban that starts in 2030.
climate
As NOAA funding lags, a critical ocean weather system nears a breaking point
Officials warn that if regional Integrated Ocean Observing System readings go dark, coastal forecasts will become less precise, endangering commercial fishermen, cargo ships and coastal communities.
Maine schools explore nature-based playgrounds
More than two dozen schools have added play areas with features like rocks, logs and water. Experts say they can help children develop key skills and cultivate an interest in sustainability and the outdoors.
Maine is lagging on key climate targets
A new report from the Maine Climate Council suggests the state might not meet some of its deadlines for reaching environmental milestones.
As Maine winters get warmer, Presque Isle faces the biggest change
The city’s average temperature from December through February is 6.5 degrees higher than it was in 1970, marking one of the biggest shifts in the country.
Climate change theater inspires audience in Freeport
Six plays performed outside spoke of oysters, orcas and opportunities to combat climate change.
Drought wilts Maine’s apple and blueberry yields
This year’s extreme weather led to a 50% drop in production among Maine’s biggest apple growers and a 30% decline among wild blueberry farmers.
UNE launches buoy off Camp Ellis to collect local storm and climate data
The data will help a coastal Saco neighborhood prone to flooding prepare for a wetter, stormier future.
Maine’s lobster population is declining. Is the industry at risk?
A new report says Gulf of Maine lobsters are healthy but are being caught faster than they can be replaced in a warming environment.
UMaine Climate Change Institute leader steps down as the field faces challenges
The institute will have an interim director as Paul Mayewski departs after 24 years.