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
Pa. state agencies used less energy in 2021, but lagged on electric vehicle goals
In recent years, state agencies’ energy use has gone down more than 12% and saved taxpayers millions, according to a report released Friday.
2 years ago
Residents of ‘saturated’ industrial corridor in Delaware learn about their cancer risk
2 years ago
Turn out your lights to help save birds migrating through Philly
Lights Out Philly started after a mass collision event killed over 1,000 birds. This year, conservationists want your help protecting migrating birds.
2 years ago
Philly pushes Harrisburg to pass law allowing safer bike lanes on state roads
The city wants to build more bike lanes that protect cyclists from getting “doored.” Officials say state law stands in the way on some major Philly streets.
2 years ago
Report says when accounting for climate and health, wind power is cheaper for Delaware
Delaware is rare on the East Coast for having no offshore wind power. A new report commissioned by the state finds it would be cost-effective.
2 years ago
Philly school asbestos inspection vote delayed to add lead paint checks
A City Council member has delayed a scheduled vote on a bill to require more asbestos inspections in Philly schools. He wants to add rules around lead paint.
2 years ago
Nonprofit renovating Cobbs Creek Golf Course could get $3 million boost with city funds
The lease with the foundation renovating the course doesn’t require the city to help with any money. But officials want to contribute $3 million over two years.
2 years ago
City nears settlement with disability rights advocates in suit over sidewalks
The city of Philadelphia and advocates report “significant progress” toward settling a suit that claims city sidewalks violate the Americans With Disabilities Act.
2 years ago
New federal flood insurance pricing system brings big savings to flood-prone Eastwick
FEMA’s “Risk Rating 2.0” more accurately reflects flood risk and the cost to rebuild after a flood. This means some owners will no longer overpay.
2 years ago
Listen 4:08After frost hits Philly’s cherry blossoms, ‘fingers crossed’ for a full bloom
Horticulturists say bloom times are creeping earlier as the climate warms — possibly putting the blossoms at greater risk of frost.
2 years ago
‘Legendary’ Camden soul food restaurant owner gets key to the city
For more than 30 years, Corinne’s Place has been a beloved mainstay of Camden. The latest honor for its award-winning owner: a key to the city.
2 years ago
The money coming from the state could pay for infrastructure repairs or home buyouts — but it’s not yet clear how exactly it will be spent.
2 years ago