How the Chicago region is affected by the Urban Heat Island

This blog is adapted from my master’s research in using GIS to measure the urban heat island effect across the Chicago region. This interest comes from the fact that as someone who has commuted on many hot nights in/around Chicago, there is an obvious different in how the urban heat island impacts the urban, impervious core, and the tree canopied […]

10 Historical Moments that Shaped Climate Change Awareness

Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues of our time, with its impacts being felt across the globe. 2023 was the world’s hottest year on record. However, the awareness of the issue is not new, and in fact, has been growing since the 19th century. In this blog, we’ll be taking a look at the top 10 […]

The Issues With ESG Investment Funds Below the Surface

In recent years, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing has gained significant traction as investors increasingly seek to align their portfolios with ethical and sustainable values. In a vacuum, this is awesome news, especially as finance is a major player in our economy, and inextricably linked to the natural world. However, beneath the surface of these investments lies room for […]

The Problem With Electric Vehicles Hiding in Plain Sight

In the accelerating shift away from traditional combustion engines toward a greener automotive landscape, a surprising obstacle has emerged—reluctance among drivers to invest in used electric vehicles (EVs). This trend is not only affecting the $1.2 trillion secondhand market but is also posing challenges for the broader EV industry. While there are numerous issues with electric vehicle technology that could […]

Climate Change Careers Without a Degree

In the dynamic world of climate change and sustainability, opportunities abound for individuals eager to contribute to a healthier planet. What’s particularly encouraging is the accessibility of impactful careers in this field, often not requiring a traditional college degree. For those who lack the resources, or simply do not want to spend the time and money required for a bachelor’s […]

Striking a Balance: Navigating the Interplay Between Urban Development and Climate Change”

In the complex dance between urban development and climate change, finding the right balance is imperative for a sustainable future. Rapid urbanization has brought undeniable benefits, including economic growth and improved living standards. However, the environmental toll of unchecked development raises critical concerns. In this blog, we will explore the key issues that arise at the intersection of urban development […]

January 7th 2008 – A Tornado Meets a Train

January 7th, 2008 was the apex of an unseasonably warm early January weather pattern in the Chicago area. Chicago’s official site for weather observations, O’Hare airport, recorded a record high of 65 degrees that day, just two degrees shy of the all-time high temperature for the entire month of January. Nearby, Gary, Indiana hit 70 degrees that day.  Meteorologists had been predicting […]