In the Media

Professor Peter Calow wrote this letter to the editor on the growing influence of big technology in society; he argues that governments should engage their electorates in a debate about how much technocracy is acceptable. 

In this commentary, Professor Peter Calow writes that science has a big part to play in defending democracy in the upcoming elections, but as a defender of facts, not values and preferences. 

Professor Peter Calow co-authored this commentary that argues for more public interest to ensure the continued reliability of Minnesota’ water infrastructure.

Associate Professor Gabe Chan and researcher Matthew Grimley were interviewed for this explainer on Xcel Energy’s plan to institute a “time-of-use” rate design that charges customers more for power during periods of high demand.

Assistant Professor Fayola Jacobs was interviewed for this story outlining the federal government’s new National Climate Assessment. Jacobs co-authored the chapter on social systems and justice. 

Associate Professor Bonnie Keeler comments on whether a lawsuit against the EPA is the best strategy for addressing pollution from livestock megafarms.

State regulators limited Xcel Energy’s electricity rate hike after energy justice advocates lobbied for them to consider affordability. Associate Professor Gabe Chan, whose data helped inform the decision, was interviewed for this story. 
 

Associate Professor Bonnie Keeler was a guest on the Climate Cast podcast, discussing an EPA grant she is leading to help rural, tribal and underserved communities access federal funding for energy and environmental improvement projects.

Professor Peter Calow's letter on the interface between science and the humanities, and how it should be used to take account of indigenous views on biodiversity was published. (page 2)

Professor Peter Calow authored this commentary, writing that education in science has a big role to play as a foundation for democracy.

Associate Professor Bonnie Keeler was interviewed for this feature story on the challenges facing Minnesota's drinking water supplies. 

Associate Professor Gabe Chan offers his perspectives on Xcel Energy’s recent request for a substantial increase in its electrical rates, in part to invest in more renewable energy.

 A recap of Marshall Johnson’s November 10 presentation on birds and climate change, sponsored by the Humphrey School. 

Associate Professor Gabe Chan was a guest on the Climate Cast podcast, discussing the growing labor market in the renewable energy industry. 

Associate Professor Gabe Chan and some of his students were featured in this article describing their tour of rural electric cooperatives that are transitioning to renewable energy sources. 

Associate Professor Gabe Chan and STEP researcher Matt Grimley wrote this commentary explaining the advantages of a recent agreement between electric cooperatives Great River Energy and Connexus. 

Associate Professor Gabe Chan was a guest on this program, discussing policy debates that will influence the future of electric vehicles. 
 

A profile of alumnus Andrew Butts (MS-STEP ‘19) and the nonprofit he founded, Green Neighbor Challenge, which recently won a $100,000 grant from the Environmental Justice Data Fund.