Sophia Schmidt covers the environment for WHYY’s PlanPhilly. Before coming to Philadelphia in 2021, Sophia reported on her home state of Delaware for Delaware Public Media and produced interviews for NPR’s “Weekend Edition.” Sophia was a 2021 Metcalf Fellow.
More from the Contributor
Trump wants to ‘overhaul’ FEMA. What to know about the agency’s role in the Philly region
The president issued an executive order Friday launching a year-long review of the agency’s recent disaster responses.
2 days ago
Listen 1:26Philly libraries are vital community hubs. Many struggle to keep their heat on
Data provided by the Free Library of Philadelphia shows 29 branches closed at least once in 2024 due to heating issues.
4 days ago
Listen 1:17A ‘lifesaver,’ a ‘hub,’ an ‘escape pod’: What the shuttered Richmond Library means to neighbors
The library is closed due to an ongoing roof replacement project and a crumbling ceiling. A spokesperson said work is starting up again.
1 week ago
Biden administration awarded home energy rebate money to Pa., Del., N.J. in final days
The rebates will reduce the cost of electric heat pumps, electric stoves, wiring and insulation. They’re expected to roll out this year.
1 week ago
Pa. Consumer Advocate resigns, claiming utilities lobbied for his ouster
An investor research firm described Cicero as a “thorn in the side of investor-owned water utilities.” His last day is Jan. 31.
2 weeks ago
Listen 1:37‘Small steps are truly worth it’: Philly-area residents discuss climate solutions at WHYY event
Entrepreneurs and activists attended a WHYY News Climate Desk event to discuss climate action and screen short climate films.
2 weeks ago
Listen 1:04Port Richmond residents sue PGW, PECO, city and neighbors over 2023 explosion that leveled homes
Three suits filed by residents of Miller Street accuse PGW, the city, PECO and other residents of negligence that contributed to the blast.
3 weeks ago
Listen 1:08New federal clean energy rebates are in limbo for residents of Pa., Del., and N.J.
Federal funding is still pending for 21 states, as Biden’s term nears its end. The rebates can cover heat pumps, electric stoves and insulation.
3 weeks ago
Listen 1:18Warming centers open as safe places in Philly during cold snap
Roughly 20 sites across the city are open during the day, during the night or 24/7. City officials say everyone is welcome.
3 weeks ago
Radon could be an invisible lung cancer risk inside your Pennsylvania home
Roughly 40% of Pennsylvania homes are estimated to have elevated levels of radioactive radon, according to the state.
4 weeks ago
Listen 1:032024 tied for Philly’s warmest year on record
Since 2020, Philly has consistently had one of its top 10 warmest years on record.
1 month ago
The U.S. Army Corps wants to elevate 6,000 N.J. homes to protect them from storms
The plan is not yet funded and is still subject to change. Construction could begin as early as 2030.
1 month ago