Recycling “does not solve the solid waste problem,” the head of a plastics trade group said in 1989, around the time the industry was launching its recycling campaign.
climate change
Across the world, migrating animal populations are dwindling. Here’s why
In a landmark U.N. study, researchers found nearly half of the world’s threatened migratory species have declining populations. More than a fifth of the assessed animals face extinction.
EPA tightens rules on some air pollution for the first time in over a decade
The new regulations could save thousands of lives from deadly air pollution, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s calculations.
Rhode Island lawmakers propose plan to tackle climate-related coastal threats
On a recent weekday, state Representative Terri Cortvriend climbed the rock outcropping at Surfers End at Sachuest Beach in Middletown. It was raining, and she climbed slowly, her boots seeking traction. At the top, in every direction, she saw areas that are being impacted by the effects of climate change. To the southwest, she mentioned […]
How do we convince people to make climate-conscious decisions?
I’ve learned so many great sustainability tips during my time at Possibly! But often I find it hard to convince my friends to change their habits, and even I sometimes end up forgetting to unplug my electronics or leaving my reusable grocery bags at home. So I was wondering, are there research-based ways to boost sustainable behaviors?
Climate activists protest outside Newport mansion to challenge lawsuits filed by local preservation group
On Tuesday night, the Elms mansion on Bellevue Avenue was aglow with white lights and alive with the sound of protests. “Preserve our future! Not the mansions! Drop the lawsuit! Drop it now!,” they chanted. A few cars honked in solidarity as they passed. Guests arrived in cars, passing through the gate on their way […]
What does the future of natural gas look like in Rhode Island? Part 2
Megan Hall: Welcome to Possibly, where we take on huge problems like the future of our planet and break them down into small questions with unexpected answers. I’m Megan Hall. Today, we’re continuing our coverage of the future of energy in Rhode Island. Since the state burns too much natural gas to reach net-zero by […]
How to support homeless communities, adapting to warming waters, and more
Another homeless encampment has been shut down – this time by the city of Providence. We talk with an advocate about the challenges facing unhoused people in the state, and how to support those communities now. Also, an oceanographer tells us how warming waters are affecting our local fish populations, and how we can prepare for changes to come. And infighting over shoreline access and ownership of a lighthouse has led to the resignation of Westerly’s town council president. Plus, the week in politics; a local artist explores the relationship between freedom and ecology; and a few tips on things to do this week.
Test Dec 13
Fab story about dolphins in Newport Harbor
‘An incredible, sophisticated time machine.’ Brown University scientists drill into the past to help learn about our climate future
Two Brown researchers are part of an international science expedition currently off the coast of Portugal.

