Category Archives: Regulations and regulators

The Dirty Secret Behind the Hydrogen Hype

Despite promises of opportunity and jobs, communities slated for hydrogen projects oppose these handouts for the fossil fuel industry

Theories of Economic Crises

How different economic theories, or more accurately, stories, about crises, have profound impact on policy.

The Future of Mining Is Deeper, Darker, and Riskier

As mining companies delve ever deeper into the Earth, new tools — from AI to metal-eating microbes — will guide the way.

“Effective Altruism” Network Infiltrates Congress, Federal Agencies to Create Silicon Valley Favoring AI Policies

How Silicon Valley has taken over the AI agenda in the Beltway, for fun and above all, profit.

EPA Fast-Tracking of Gene-Altering Pesticide Sparks Concerns

The EPA is rushing a gene-changing pesticide through the approval process which would open the door to similar products from Big Chemical

How Widespread Is Price-Fixing in the US Economy?

DOJ finally goes after Agri Stats, a company notorious for helping the meat industry gouge producers, stores and consumers. Will the move serve as a warning for other industries?

‘Sacrifice Zones’: The New ‘Jim Crow’ That’s Sickening and Killing People of Color

“Sacrifice zones”—pollution hot spots—are a front line in an often deadly and steadily growing health crisis across the United States

American Society Wasn’t Always So Car-Centric. Our Future Doesn’t Have To Be, Either.

The surprising history of the car in the U.S. offers hope for a shift toward more climate-friendly transportation options.

Crisis Risks Looming, UK Edition

While a UK crisis is not yet brewing, there are plenty of worrisome developments that could keep moving in the wrong direction.

What Mobile Clinics in Dollar General Parking Lots Say About Health Care in Rural America

Dollar General has launched profit-motivated health clinics on wheels. What could go wrong?

Justice Department Sues eBay Over Unlawful Sales of Pesticides, Other Products

eBay is often accused of selling fakes, like knockoff Hermes ties. The Feds are suing eBay for selling real, as in really dangerous, wares

Happy Talk About US Slowdown a Recession Warning as China Growth Also Weakening

Recession complacency means things are wobblier than they seem.

IM Doc on the Corruption of Public Health and the Breakdown of Medical Practice in the US

Sadly, famed short seller David Einhorn’s saying applies to US public health: “No matter how bad you think it is, it’s worse.”