To see where energy comes from and where it goes, we can look at a chart with U.S. energy flows or the alternative energy that is described by xkcd.…
Environment
Environmental economics looks at the positive and negative impact of growth. Especially focusing on marginal analysis and externalities, econlife looks at our current impact on the environment and our use of natural resources in the US and beyond.
The Economic Indicator That Coronavirus Can Create
Coronavirus can create an economic indicator that tells us whether manufacturing activity has increased or decreased in China.…
Why We Want Tubeless Toilet Paper
When the makers of toilet paper, sneakers, and clothing use less-waste design, they wind up creatively combining resources.…
When Communal Mugs Are Like Gym Memberships
When companies replace single use cups with mugs and glasses, the employee response has been somewhat like our use of gym memberships.…
The Problem With Plastic Bag Bans
Because Chicago first had a single use plastic bag ban and then replaced it with a single use plastic bag fee, researchers can compare the impact.…
Where a Traffic Light Could Cut Noise Pollution
To diminish the city’s noise pollution, Mumbai is experimenting with traffic lights that last longer when drivers honk too much.…
The Mystery of the VW That Didn’t Come Clean
Solving two mysteries, VW emissions tests first solved a regulatory puzzle and then revealed the impact of elevated auto pollution on health.…
The Upside of Speeding Tickets
A city is getting a good return on its investment when speed cameras improve road safety and other services make residents’ life better.…
The Fights That Migrating Fish Fuel
When global warming causes fish migration, the impact involves much more than species survival, nutrition, and ocean temperatures.…
What We Can Learn From a Trout
Looking at a hover of trout or a shoal of salmon, we can ask if a fish hatchery is the way to preserve a population for recreation and conservation.…