Fuel-efficient cars may actually be safer than gas guzzlers
Critics of fuel-efficiency standards have long argued that, by making cars lighter, they make cars more dangerous. A new paper challenges this theory, arguing that they may be saving lives.
Environment
Research roundups, tip sheets, articles and explainers related to the topic of energy and the environment
Expert Commentary
Shark attacks: Research and resources
While shark attacks are rare, reports of attacks are on the rise worldwide. This collection of research examines shark-attack trends, victim injuries, how the media portrays sharks and more.
Expert Commentary
Oil prices influence every beat: Resources for reporters
Peel away at almost any story – from unrest in Venezuela to milk deliveries in Vermont – and eventually you’ll find a tale about oil. This explainer includes resources for reporters new to the global oil beat.
Expert Commentary
School meals: Healthy lunches, food waste and effects on learning
A collection of research on school meals, including cafeteria food waste, effects on academic performance and efforts to improve school lunch quality.
Expert Commentary
A controversial insecticide and its effect on brain development: Research and resources
The EPA declined, after years of review, to ban the common insecticide chlorpyrifos in March 2017. We outline the controversy and the evidence it hurts developing brains.
Expert Commentary
Arctic melt boosts northern trade routes, hurts Suez
The melting ice caps will not only impact our coastlines, but may radically alter international trade, a new study finds.
Expert Commentary
Are fracking and earthquakes really connected?
Scientists have linked the oil and gas industry to a rash of earthquakes in regions that previously saw few. But, contrary to popular belief, fracking itself is not the main cause.
Expert Commentary
Investing in energy efficiency: Research on when it pays
Investments in efficiency are most cost-effective when electricity prices are highest. Smart meters are helping economists better estimate when electricity is needed to meet consumer demand.
Expert Commentary
Predicting where seas are rising fastest
The seas are rising, but not like water in a bathtub. A new report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offers region-specific predictions for coastal inundation.
Expert Commentary
Lead emissions from planes may be costing billions in lost earnings
Airplanes are now the largest source of lead pollution in the United States. Americans hurt by lead exposure may be losing billions in lost wages.
Expert Commentary