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
‘Don’t be afraid to lose’: David Oh concedes to Cherelle Parker in Philly mayor’s race
After 11 years on City Council, Oh said he’s not sure what he’ll do next — other than “rest and relax and spend a little more time with the family.”
2 years ago
Philly food trucks are still giving out plastic bags despite ban, advocates say
Unpredictable sales and tight margins make it hard for food trucks to source anything but the cheapest bags, a former food truck operator said.
2 years ago
Listen 1:17The group of gardeners and advocates hopes to hold a similar conversation with Republican mayoral candidate David Oh.
2 years ago
Pa.’s new environmental justice policy doesn’t solve the problem, advocates say
“The community has to have a determining voice,” one critic said. “This policy doesn't do that.”
3 years ago
Federal money coming to Philly for tree planting, lead paint awareness, and A/C units
Over $4 million in federal grant money will flow to nonprofits and local governments to support environmental justice in the Philly region.
3 years ago
Listen 1:05Hundreds of Philly high school students walk out of class to march in support of Palestinians
“I have to say something,” one student said. “I have to use my voice.”
3 years ago
Millions of federal dollars could help Pa. build a climate-ready electric grid
PECO, PPL Electric, and Duquesne Light’s plans include floodproofing, adding battery storage, and increasing grid capacity.
3 years ago
Warehouse construction starts soon at demolished South Philly refinery
Officials and business executives broke ground on the industrial and logistics campus at the former refinery site this week.
3 years ago
‘We can have nice things’: Philly climate activists rally for investments in public spaces
The Sunrise activists want Philly’s next mayor to put solar panels on rec center roofs, open libraries longer, and turn vacant lots into gardens.
3 years ago
Why some Philadelphians want gas-powered leaf blowers to disappear
Several other cities have already banned or started phasing out gas-powered leaf blowers over their unhealthy emissions.
3 years ago
‘Focused on growth’: Philly workshop offers Black entrepreneurs tips on expanding their businesses
The one-day intensive hosted by Mom Your Business included panels, networking, and technical support.
3 years ago
Breakout sessions will cover topics including mental health, paying for college, and self-marketing for job applications.
3 years ago











