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
Power plants among the largest industrial climate polluters in Pennsylvania
In a new report, environmental advocates crunched EPA data to call out Pennsylvania’s “dirty dozen.”
3 years ago
Listen 1:23Philly’s tap water has a trust problem. Did the recent contamination scare make it worse?
Before a chemical spill threatened to contaminate Philly’s water, 42% of residents drank bottled water. The long-term impact of the incident on trust is “yet to be felt.”
3 years ago
Residents complain of disruptive noise, “noxious fumes,” broken-down cars blocking an alleyway, and debris spilling into backyards.
3 years ago
Philly’s plastic bag ban is working, study finds
A city-commissioned study estimates the ban prevented enough single-use plastic bags to fill City Hall every eight months.
3 years ago
The 2023 climate voter’s guide: Where do Philly mayoral candidates stand on the issues?
From the future of PGW to tackling trash, here are the candidates’ plans.
3 years ago
Listen 6:19Flooding at FDR Park lake renews criticism of renovation
Advocates worry the recent removal of tide gates at FDR Park hurt trees. Experts say it depends on the species and on how long they’re inundated.
3 years ago
One penguin species declines, while another thrives on the western Antarctic Peninsula
Scientists predict that Adélie penguins could disappear from the western Antarctic Peninsula. Researchers at UD and Temple are tracking the changing conditions.
3 years ago
Listen 13:55Sam Baxter: The complex legacy of the man behind the water treatment plant
Philadelphia's first water commissioner transformed the city's drinking water system but "was no saint.”
3 years ago
Listen 2:08Philadelphians envision a ‘fossil fuel-free’ refinery redo at community summit
The company redeveloping the former PES refinery site has promised a “green, sustainable” project, but residents want more specific commitments.
3 years ago
Philadelphia City Council to investigate city’s preparedness for drinking water threats
Council authorized hearings on Philadelphia’s emergency management practices for drinking water threats after a March chemical spill triggered a bottled water advisory.
3 years ago
No unsafe levels of toxic chemicals found in air near Hunting Park junkyard fire, city says
Philly’s air monitors did not detect a rise in unhealthy particulate pollution during Wednesday’s fire, officials say, but the closest monitor is two miles away.
3 years ago
Philly Thrive summit to spotlight South Philadelphia refinery redevelopment
Saturday’s event features a candidate forum, a play written by teens, and workshops on gentrification and jobs.
3 years ago
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