Author Archives: Naomi Albert

Wisconsin Solar Industry Remains Unshaded Despite Tariff

The Trump administration imposed a tariff on imported solar panels this January. Robert Lighthize, U.S. trade representative, said that the tariff comes at the recommendation of the Trade Policy Committee based on information that U.S. producers were being hurt by imports. “The President’s action makes clear again that the Trump administration will always defend American workers, farmers, ranchers and businesses ... Read More »

The Consumer Conundrum: Purchasing Meat

Consumer concern over animal welfare and sustainability has generated a plethora of food options aimed at meeting this growing market. With so much variety, even simple choices like what to buy at the grocery store can be difficult for shoppers trying to make the “right” decision. There are very few federal regulations which deal with animal welfare. One of these ... Read More »

Students Think About Consumerism this Valentine’s Day

For weeks now, store-fronts have been teeming with cards, candy and teddy bears in all shades of pink and red as a constant reminder that it is time to buy that special gift. It seems that this is exactly what Americans plan to do. The National Retail Federation has reported that collectively Americans are projected to spend $19.6 billion on ... Read More »

Environmental Books and Movies to Liven Up February Blues

Although sub-zero wind chills and icy streets may deter students from getting outside to enjoy nature, they provide the perfect opportunity to cozy-up with a book or movie to get inspired and informed. Mark Cook, freshman chemical engineering major, said that he has been enjoying watching “Rotten,” a documentary series which arrived to Netflix this January. “It just inspired me to ... Read More »

Job Growth From Renewable Energy Sparks Conservative Support

Renewable energy has begun to gain the support of conservative groups as it becomes more economically viable. One such group is the recently formed Wisconsin Conservative Energy Forum, which aims to educate conservatives about energy possibilities in the state. According to their website, the organization supports the development of local clean energy, strongly emphasizing the economic benefits that renewable energy ... Read More »

From One Vegetarian to Another: Getting Through the Holidays

It’s that time of year again for vegetarians, when we brace for interrogations on our lifestyle choices and get ready to load up on a few extra servings of mashed potatoes at holiday gatherings. In my meat-and-potatoes kind of family, the turkey missing from my plate has caused plenty of explaining about my life-style choices and personal philosophy.  It has ... Read More »

Sulfide Mines No Longer Have to “Prove it First” in Wisconsin

Last month, the Wisconsin Legislature repealed what was known as the “Prove it First” law, which has put a freeze on sulfide mining in the state since 1998. Under the “Prove it First” law, the Department of Natural Resources could only grant sulfide mining permits to companies which had operated for 10 years and then closed for 10 years without ... Read More »

Pipeline Spills 210,000 Gallons of Oil

An estimated 210,000 gallons of oil spilled from Keystone pipeline on agricultural land near Amherst, South Dakota last month.  The pipeline is owned by the Canadian company TransCanada. TransCanada reported that 44,730 gallons of oil have since been recovered in clean-up efforts and the pipeline resumed operations at the end of November.  The company said that there have been no ... Read More »