Category: Energy Policy

Energy PolicySustainability

Marine Plastic Pollution Solutions Require Fundamental Production and Consumption Changes

A groundbreaking NTNU study shows most plastic pollution measures focus on cleanup rather than addressing root causes. Researchers identify only three approaches capable of creating meaningful systemic change in production and consumption patterns.

The limitations of current plastic pollution measures

Despite numerous initiatives to combat plastic pollution in Norway, a comprehensive study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology reveals that only a handful of approaches will lead to substantial environmental improvement. With millions of tons of plastic entering marine ecosystems annually, researchers are seeking solutions that address the problem at its source rather than merely cleaning up the consequences.

by Natalie Brooks
EconomicsEnergy Policy

Doughnut Economics Framework Reveals Global Growth Imbalance and Pathways to Sustainable Development

** The updated Doughnut Economics framework reveals a global economy dangerously out of balance, with ecological overshoot accelerating while social progress stagnates. This comprehensive analysis shows how nations can repurpose economic systems toward human and environmental flourishing rather than destructive growth. **CONTENT:**

In an era of escalating climate crises and persistent social inequalities, the Doughnut Economics framework provides a powerful visual metaphor for understanding humanity’s precarious position between social deprivation and ecological collapse. Originally developed by economist Kate Raworth in her influential 2017 book “Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st Century Economist,” this revolutionary approach challenges conventional economic thinking that prioritizes growth above all else.

by Natalie Brooks
Energy PolicyHigher Education

Why U.S. Colleges Are Rejecting Trump’s Higher Education Compact: Academic Freedom vs. Federal Control

When the Trump administration’s “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education” was released in October 2025, federal officials called it a voluntary partnership to restore merit and accountability. But university presidents, alumni organizers, and civil rights advocates see it as a dangerous power grab that could undermine academic freedom and institutional independence nationwide.

When the “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education” was released on October 1, 2025, federal officials described it as a voluntary partnership designed to restore accountability, merit, and transparency to American higher education. However, the academic community’s response has been anything but welcoming, with leading institutions and alumni networks mobilizing against what they perceive as federal overreach threatening core academic values.

The Core Conflict: Voluntary Partnership or Coercive Control?

by Natalie Brooks
EnergyEnergy Policy

Holtec’s Retreat Exposes Nuclear Waste Crisis Threatening U.S. Energy Resurgence

Holtec International has withdrawn controversial nuclear waste storage plans in New Mexico, exposing fundamental weaknesses in America’s nuclear energy strategy. New research reveals small modular reactors produce 2-30 times more waste than conventional nuclear plants, creating unprecedented disposal challenges.

Nuclear Storage Crisis Forces Holtec Retreat

by Darren Holt
Energy PolicyManufacturing

Manufacturing Day 2025: Why Skilled Workforce Development Must Be America’s Top Priority

As Manufacturing Day 2025 approaches, America faces a critical skills gap threatening manufacturing competitiveness. With 3.8 million jobs needing filling and potential reshoring increasing demand, technical education and apprenticeship programs offer viable solutions. This comprehensive analysis explores how certificate training, changing perceptions, and collaborative efforts can build the skilled workforce manufacturers desperately need.

As we approach Manufacturing Day 2025, the United States stands at a critical crossroads in addressing its manufacturing workforce challenges. The widening skills gap threatens to erode U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and undermine economic growth at a time when global competition intensifies. While certificate and license training programs demonstrate clear economic returns, most government funding continues flowing toward traditional college education rather than technical training pathways.

The Growing Manufacturing Skills Crisis

by Natalie Brooks