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
Hundreds march in Philadelphia to protest ICE: ‘We’re not going to let this stand’
The protesters called for workers to join a general strike started in Minnesota against the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.
2 months ago
Listen 1:04
The surprising tie between global warming and heavy snow in the Philly region
Winter is still the fastest-warming season on the East Coast. “You're always going to see variable weather patterns,” one expert said.
2 months ago
Listen 0:52
Philadelphia region prepares for an expected major winter weather event
The storm could blanket the region with snow and ice and impact transportation services for a day or more.
2 months ago
New Jersey finalizes higher elevation standards for the shore
The new rules require development in coastal flood zones to be elevated 4 feet higher to account for future sea level rise.
2 months ago
Listen 0:54
From firewood to solar: This Philly rowhouse has seen over 250 years of energy transitions
A rowhouse built around 1760 in Old City was once heated with firewood. Now, it has solar panels on its roof.
2 months ago
Listen 1:22
‘Strawberries to collard greens’: The Original American Foundation grows free food in Kingsessing
Founders of the Original American Foundation say their goals are to lower food costs for neighbors and prevent gentrification.
2 months ago
Listen 0:55
‘Going to make my life much better’: SEPTA trolley riders react to tunnel reopening
The trolley tunnel has been closed since November. It reopened Monday, but will close again for shorter periods in January and February.
2 months ago
Philadelphians will see 15% discount on flood insurance starting in April
FEMA approved the city to join its Community Rating System, a program that rewards municipalities that take steps to reduce flood risk.
2 months ago
Listen 0:47
SEPTA says trolley wire replacements are done, estimates tunnel will reopen in ‘weeks’
With the trolley tunnel from West Philly to Center City closed the past two months, roughly 60,000 trolley riders have relied on the El or a shuttle.
2 months ago
Listen 0:50
How nature is fostering kids’ creativity in Philadelphia
Studies suggest nature can help lower stress and boost attention. Researchers and educators say it can also help kids express creativity.
2 months ago
Listen 4:42
Concrete is a big contributor to climate change. Penn researchers say they can shrink its footprint
Concrete reabsorbs some of its carbon emissions over time. Alternative ingredients and 3D printing could help supercharge that by making the finished concrete more porous.
2 months ago
Listen 1:12
Philadelphia utility bills surged in 2025, and more increases are coming in 2026. Here’s why
Philadelphians’ electric, gas and water bills all increased in 2025. Together, the typical household is paying around $30 more per month.
3 months ago