Planet Detroit

Planet Detroit is a weekly email newsletter designed to enhance your knowledge about environmental matters in Detroit and Michigan. Our emphasis is on clear, solution-oriented, and investigative journalism, and we are dedicated to involving the community in discussions about local environmental challenges. We have a strong grasp of the relevant issues and connect with local activists, nonprofit organizations, business leaders, and other media outlets.

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Proposed elimination of Energy Star program threatens Michigan building efficiency efforts

1 week ago | planetdetroit.org | Nina Ignaczak

Overview: -While the EPA has yet to confirm the shutdown, the potential loss of Energy Star Portfolio Manager could disrupt local climate efforts in Detroit and Ann Arbor. -Commercial and multifamily buildings over 25,000 square feet in Detroit must begin submitting annual usage data this year.
What we're reading: Michigan drinking water, energy assistance, housing programs at risk in Trump's budget proposal

1 week ago | planetdetroit.org | Dustin Blitchok

Overview: -Detroit is pushing forward with phase two of solar farm projects in sparsely populated neighborhoods. -Three Detroit hospitals receive failing grades for patient safety from The Leapfrog Group. -Michigan House votes to repeal law that allows state authorities to override local governments on renewable energy projects.
Natural gas spending will cost Michigan ratepayers, hurt climate goals, report finds

1 week ago | planetdetroit.org | Brian Allnutt

Overview: -Michigan's gas customers face soaring bills as utilities invest heavily in natural gas infrastructure, says the Citizens Utility Board of Michigan. -Michigan's Healthy Climate Plan aims for 52% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050. -DTE says pipeline replacements comprise a significant portion of its natural gas investments.
DTE Energy, Consumers Energy shareholder returns help drive up Michigan energy bills: 'It's costing consumers so much money'

1 week ago | planetdetroit.org | Brian Allnutt

Overview: -Higher approved returns on equity raise customers’ bills and generally mean more earnings per share and larger dividends, or direct payments to utility stockholders, regulatory finance expert says. -Eighty million Americans say they struggle to pay their utility bills, and 73% expressed concern their gas and electricity charges will increase this year, according to April poll.
Planet Detroit reporter Brian Allnutt wins civil engineering media award for infrastructure coverage

1 week ago | planetdetroit.org | Nina Ignaczak

Overview: - Brian Allnutt, Planet Detroit's senior reporter, has been recognized for his impactful journalism with the 2025 Outstanding Media Coverage in Civil Engineering Award. - His work sheds light on how aging infrastructure systems shape the lives of Michigan residents, delving into policy, environmental, and economic challenges.
BASF Detroit River pollution: Environmental regulators discuss remedy for contaminated groundwater

2 weeks ago | planetdetroit.org | Brian Allnutt

Overview: -Up to 60 gallons of contaminated groundwater flow from BASF's Wyandotte site into the Detroit River every minute. -EPA says complex soil and infrastructure challenges are barriers to an immediate fix. -EPA and Michigan officials discuss plans for a final remedy involving perimeter barriers and groundwater collection.
Northern Michigan ice storm debris become renewable energy: 'We were green before green was cool'

2 weeks ago | planetdetroit.org | Izzy Ross

Overview: -In northern Michigan, the same debris that knocked out the power a few weeks ago could be used to make electricity. -Some of the woody debris could go to landscaping businesses to be used as much, and it's also being sold to biomass facilities that will turn the debris into energy. -“We've been in the renewable power business for a long time," says the director of biomass operations at NorthStar Clean Energy.
What we're reading: Detroit breaks 1899 heat record with 86-degree April day

2 weeks ago | planetdetroit.org | Dustin Blitchok

Overview: -Lafayette Park residents are fighting Detroit Thermal's plans to install high-pressure steam infrastructure near a playground to heat the 1300 Lafayette high rise. -Tribar Technologies sentenced for violating Clean Water Act after toxic discharge into Wixom sewers in 2022. -EPA plans to cancel 781 environmental justice grants from Biden administration.
NSF cancels air pollution research grant focused on Detroit’s most polluted ZIP code

2 weeks ago | planetdetroit.org | Nina Ignaczak

Overview: -The Trump administration canceled a National Science Foundation grant supporting air pollution research in Southwest Detroit's 48217 ZIP code, known for its heavy industrialization. -The grant aimed to highlight community experiences and non-technical insights often overlooked in policy decisions. -"The work has to continue. This issue has spanned many generations and administrations," said University of Michigan doctoral student Ember McCoy.
Trump administration cuts end Michigan’s Healthy Climate Corps, halt community projects

2 weeks ago | planetdetroit.org | Nina Ignaczak

Overview: -The abrupt termination of Michigan's AmeriCorps funding by the Trump administration has halted the MI Healthy Climate Corps, affecting nonprofits, universities, and public agencies. -Launched in March 2024, the Corps aimed to foster climate professionals and support Michigan's carbon neutrality goals by 2050. -"We were doing a lot of projects directly working with the community," said Lucas Aguirre, who had been placed at Eastside Community Network in Detroit.

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Planet Detroit

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Articles

Proposed elimination of Energy Star program threatens Michigan building efficiency efforts

What we're reading: Michigan drinking water, energy assistance, housing programs at risk in Trump's budget proposal

Natural gas spending will cost Michigan ratepayers, hurt climate goals, report finds

DTE Energy, Consumers Energy shareholder returns help drive up Michigan energy bills: 'It's costing consumers so much money'

Planet Detroit reporter Brian Allnutt wins civil engineering media award for infrastructure coverage

BASF Detroit River pollution: Environmental regulators discuss remedy for contaminated groundwater

Northern Michigan ice storm debris become renewable energy: 'We were green before green was cool'

What we're reading: Detroit breaks 1899 heat record with 86-degree April day

NSF cancels air pollution research grant focused on Detroit’s most polluted ZIP code

Trump administration cuts end Michigan’s Healthy Climate Corps, halt community projects

Planet Detroit journalists

Brian Allnutt

Nina Ignaczak

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