"An administrative law judge has recommended that a Native American tribe in Washington state once again be allowed to hunt gray whales — a major step in its decades-long effort to resume the ancient practice."

"President Biden announced six commissioners to the U.S. Arctic Research Commission today, after forcing several Trump administration appointees to step down in early September."

"The National Defense Act Authorization (NDAA) passed by the House on Thursday night would require the Pentagon to factor in extreme weather risks and publish studies on a class of toxic “forever chemicals.”"

"It’s a consequential week for President Joe Biden’s agenda, as Democratic leaders delicately trim back his $3.5 trillion “Build Back Better” package to win over remaining lawmakers and work to quickly pass legislation to avoid a federal shutdown."

"New federal flood insurance rates that better reflect the real risks of climate change are coming. For some, premiums will rise sharply."

"Russian Arctic oil is moving north into territories previously untouched by man. The latests lands up for industrial expansion might be the shorelines and delta areas of several Arctic rivers and bays."

"The creation of synthetic fertilizers in the early 20th century was a turning point in human history, enabling an increase in crop yields and causing a population boom. But the overuse of nitrogen and phosphorus from those fertilizers is causing an environmental crisis, as algae blooms and oceanic “dead zones” grow in scale and frequency."

"Water usage in parts of Southern California increased in July but saw a minor reduction statewide as Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) requested that residents cut back amid a historic drought, according to new state data released Tuesday."

"Sea ice is more extensive than in recent low years, but still far lower than historically — even as other markers, such as thickness and age show declines."