Chicagoans breathe the most polluted air of the year on July 4
From dusk to midnight, July 4 fireworks blast particulate matter over Chicago, which already has some of the worst air pollution in the U.S.
Environment & Public Health
Waste, sustainability, climate change and environmental justice. WBEZ covers our surroundings and the way we coexist with them.
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What the end of Roe means for Black maternal health in the Midwest
Since the fall of Roe v. Wade, access to quality maternal healthcare is top of mind more than ever.
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Planned Parenthood of Illinois launches new program for Black pregnant people
The nonprofit is working to break down barriers to prenatal and postpartum care for Black birthing people.
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Youngest Chicagoans are the focus of the latest vaccination push
The Chicago Department of Public Health and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois are teaming up to open family vaccination clinics on the South Side throughout the summer.
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Climate change threatens toxic sites by Lake Michigan’s shoreline
A new report looked at industrial areas and a nuclear waste site at risk of releasing hazardous materials if storms and flooding hit.
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While the Christian right rejoices over the end of Roe, other faith communities worry
Faith communities remain divided as the country continues to react to the reversal of Roe v. Wade and debate a path forward.
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Reset Special Saturday Edition: What the end of Roe means for abortion access in Illinois
Thousands took to the streets in downtown Chicago Friday night to protest the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
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With Roe v. Wade overturned, Chicago area residents share their perspectives on abortion
A teen abortion opponent. A woman not ready for children. Eight people’s stories about abortion, told in their own words.
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Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade; states can ban abortion
The Supreme Court has ended constitutional protections for abortion that had been in place nearly 50 years in a decision by its conservative majority to overturn Roe v. Wade.
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Armadillos are on their way to Chicago
Commonly found in southeastern states and Mexico, climate change is driving the armor-plated creatures northward.
