Environment and Health
A Driving Force
Back in 1898, New York City hosted a global environmental summit. Flummoxed, the assembled experts disbanded early without agreeing on workable solutions. What daunting crisis brought about this precursor of today's big UN climate conferences? Fast-growing cities were...
What’s the End Game?
I was researching a billionaire who made a fortune in the pomegranate business when I came across an old New Yorker article that opened a window into her life. Every minute of her day is booked in a life devoted to the constant quest for more money. It made me wonder:...
A Hidden Hand in Obesity
If you looked at me, you might not be able to tell that I'm obese. According to the measure of my Body Mass Index (BMI), I am. Slightly. I don't wear plus-sized clothing, I've only got one chin, and you wouldn't mind sitting next to me on an airplane. Most people who...
A Slick Maneuver
What a relief. In exchange for Iran taking steps to guarantee that it can’t build nuclear weapons, the sanctions that have choked off its access to world markets will end without a single shot. Instead of celebrating this diplomatic breakthrough, conservative...
A Heavy Question about the State of America’s Health
The media and even some experts continue to miss the boat on obesity. Consider this recent example. "Being overweight or obese increases the risk of a variety of chronic health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” reported the Los Angeles...
Lighting a Legal Fuse
Climate action is finally gaining ground in Washington. No, not that Washington. Following their victory in a Seattle court, eight children are pressing Washington State’s Department of Ecology to crack down on carbon pollution. The agency has until August 7 to reach...
A Luxury Vacation with No Modern Conveniences
When you read this, I'll probably be out in the wilderness on a 220-mile hike along the John Muir Trail. Embarking on this journey through California’s breathtaking Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks reminded me of a conversation I had in Mexico five...
Pixar’s Lesson for Kids — and Adults
Pixar's latest flick holds some major life lessons for kids — and adults, too. Inside Out takes place inside the head of an 11-year-old girl, Riley, as she and her parents move from Minnesota to San Francisco. The main characters are cute personifications of the main...
Francis vs. Washington
Pope Francis, the humble yet bold leader of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics, has offered an inspiring 21st century vision to all people. It's a vision that's been sorely missing in the halls of power. In an encyclical focused on the environment, he details how we...
Solar-Powered Friars
If you visit the Franciscan Friars Conventual of Ellicott City, Maryland, you’ll notice a large solar array standing in one of their fields. The friars have dramatically reduced their electricity bill, but that’s not the primary reason they invested in renewable...
