California commits to 100% renewables by 2045
California will source 100 per cent of its power from renewable energy, including solar and wind power by 2045.
North & Central America
This archive covers progress stories from North and Central America, spanning the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the countries of Central America. The 1,760 articles here track milestones in areas such as public health, conservation, policy, and community-led initiatives across the region. Browse to find reported evidence of what is working and why.
Illinois passes automatic voter registration
With the unanimous passage in both the Illinois House and Senate of automatic voter registration (AVR) legislation, it is safe to say this particular reform is moving along rapidly with bipartisan support.
Tennessee legislature passes free community college tuition program
Tennessee’s new plan to allow older adults without a college degree or certificate to attend community college free of charge will serve as a model as more states consider similar policies.
The Supreme Court strikes a blow against gerrymanders
On Monday, the Supreme Court agreed with a lower court that North Carolina legislators had improperly taken race into account when they redrew the lines of two congressional districts
California grid sets record, with 67% of power from renewables
Overall, renewables accounted for 42 percent of the California grid’s power on Saturday, not counting the large hydropower plants.
Portland, OR, becomes first major U.S. city to end all new investment in corporations
To avoid doing business with socially irresponsible corporations, the city is willing to lose investment incomeabout $4.5 million a year.
U.S. prisons ordered to appoint LGBT employee reps
The order requires that more than 120 prisons hold at least one event a year to educate and inform staff about LGBT diversity and designate an LGBT program manager to monitor equal opportunity programs.
Atlanta becomes 27th city to commit to 100% renewables
Atlanta City Council unanimously approved a measure Monday establishing a community-wide goal of transitioning 100 percent to renewable energy by 2035.
Life expectancy improves for blacks in the U.S., and the racial gap is closing, CDC reports
African Americans have made significant gains in life expectancy, and the mortality gap between white and black Americans has been cut in half since 1999.
Apple suppliers attain 100% Zero Waste to Landfill rating
In 2016, Apple suppliers’ facilities diverted more than 200,000 metric tons of waste from landfills, compared to 74,000 metric tons in 2015, according to the report.