Environment

Economy

As Gavin Newsom becomes governor, how he could shape California’s future—issue by issue

Now that California voters have given Gavin Newsom the job he has sought for eight years, he is about to discover that winning was the easy part. Here's his plans for California's most pressing issues.

By CalMatters Staff • November 6, 2018

Environment

Meet Ken Alex, Gov. Jerry Brown’s climate concierge

Insiders say Alex may be the most consequential environmental authority California has known.

By Julie Cart • October 11, 2018

Newsletters

California money, Trump’s emissions and water wars

California income taxes, gas taxes, campaign spending, climate change, automobile emissions, Mary Nichols, Xavier Becerra, Grump's EPA, Fresno, Paul Ryan, renewable energy

By Dan Morain • September 25, 2018

Commentary

The high cost of a zero-emission California

Reaching Gov. Jerry Brown's goal of a carbon-neutral California would require massive expenditures on the electrical grid and for zero-emission vehicles.

By Dan Walters • September 24, 2018

Environment

A blind spot in Gov. Jerry Brown’s green worldview? Critics say yes—it’s oil

Some environmental activists say Brown should ban fracking, end new oil drilling and wean the state off fossil fuels.

By Julie Cart • September 5, 2018

Capitol

Thinning California’s fire-prone forests: 5 things to know as lawmakers approve a plan

Lawmakers hope to manage California's forests better, partly by thinning the trees. Here's why that's not a simple task.

By Julie Cart • August 29, 2018

Environment

The Green Economy: Is California’s bid to lead the world on climate solutions paying off at home?

California’s landmark climate law came with promises of economic benefit. But experts say it’s virtually impossible to tell if those promises are coming true.

By Julie Cart • August 22, 2018

Environment

As California burns, climate goals may go up in smoke—even after the flames are out

Climate-warming compounds are released by charred forests long after wildfires have been put out. That may do more to warm the planet more than the immediate harm from smoky air.

By Julie Cart • August 7, 2018

Commentary

My turn: Unfinished business on water

Californians recognize that water fuels our economy, grows our food, and sustains our natural places. The system also is in peril and the next governor will have plenty of work to do. It’s also in peril

By Guest Commentary • August 6, 2018

Environment

How Trump’s new rules for cars would hit California—if they survive in court

The administration wants to roll back strict Obama-era standards for auto emissions and gas mileage. It also challenges California’s right to set its own rules.

By Julie Cart • August 2, 2018