Environment articles
Is the US a bigger oil importer or exporter?
The US has been exporting more oil and petroleum products than it imports since August 2021.
Just the Facts about US energy use, production, and environmental impact
Wind, fossil fuel, solar: Get the facts on how America keeps its lights on. Plus, some good environmental news.
How many disasters are declared in the US?
On average, 125 disasters are declared per year. This figure is based on the most recent five full years of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) data.
What does the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) do?
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for administering public lands in the United States. The agency manages various resources and activities on these lands, including energy development, livestock grazing, recreation, and conservation. It aims to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. It was established in 1946.
What does the Forest Service (FS) do?
The Forest Service (FS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Agriculture responsible for managing public lands in national forests and grasslands. The agency's mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands to meet the needs of present and future generations. It provides leadership in the protection, management, and use of the nation's forest resources, ensuring their long-term sustainability. It was established in 1905.
What does the Department of Agriculture (USDA) do?
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for developing and executing federal policies on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues. Its functions include supporting farmers and ranchers, ensuring food safety, promoting agricultural trade, conserving natural resources and the environment, and addressing hunger both domestically and internationally. It was established in 1862.
What does the Department of the Interior (DOI) do?
The Department of the Interior (Interior, DOI) is an executive branch agency responsible for managing federal lands, natural resources, and cultural heritage. Its functions include overseeing national parks and other protected lands, regulating natural resource extraction, upholding tribal relations and trust responsibilities, and preserving the environment. It was established in 1849.
What does the National Park Service (NPS) do?
The National Park Service (NPS) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for managing and preserving national parks, monuments, and other historical sites across the United States. The agency's primary mission is to conserve the natural and cultural resources within these areas for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations. It also works to protect the ecological integrity of these sites while providing recreational opportunities for the public. It was established in 1916.
What does the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) do?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for understanding and predicting changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts. NOAA shares this knowledge and information with others and helps conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. It was established in 1970.
What does the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) do?
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for managing and conserving fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. The agency works to protect endangered species, enforce wildlife laws, manage migratory birds, restore nationally significant fisheries, and conserve and restore wildlife habitat such as wetlands. It also collaborates with federal, state, tribal, and local partners to promote wildlife conservation and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. It was established in 1940.
What does the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) do?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for coordinating the federal government’s response to natural disasters, emergencies, and other large-scale incidents. The agency provides financial assistance, logistical support, and planning resources to help individuals, communities, and governments prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. It also works to strengthen nationwide emergency management capabilities through training, partnerships, and risk mitigation efforts. It was established in 1979.
How active has the 2025 hurricane season been?
Seven tropical storms and five hurricanes so far in 2025. In the Atlantic Ocean, tropical storms and hurricanes are the most dangerous designations of storms that are collectively known as tropical cyclones. The average number of such storms per year for the prior decade (2015 to 2024) was 18. That’s the highest 10-year average on record, based on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data dating back to 1851.
How much does FEMA spend on disaster response?
Around $31.7 billion per year on average, according to the last five years of data. In 2024, that would have been around 0.47% of the federal budget. This funding goes toward direct aid for individuals, debris removal, repairing public infrastructure, and projects that reduce future disaster risks.
Where do tornadoes do the most damage?
In 2025, tornadoes caused $1.7 billion in damage in Missouri—the most of any state.
How many energy jobs are there in the US?
In 2024, the energy sector had a workforce of 8.5 million people and a growth rate of 7.5% since 2016 — outpacing US job growth as a whole.
What are the main sources of US greenhouse gas emissions?
In 2022, 7,615 individual facilities were responsible for over 42% of total US emissions.
What are the top energy production sources in the US?
Three quarters of US energy production is from fossil fuels, and one quarter is from renewable energy, nuclear energy, and natural gas plant liquids.
How has US energy consumption changed over time?
In 2024, 82% of energy consumption was from fossil fuels, 9% was from nuclear power, and 9% was from renewable energy.
Did releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve impact gas prices?
A Treasury Department analysis showed releases from the reserve contributed to a 13 to 31 cent per gallon decrease in the price of gas through July. But prices have risen in recent months.
What is carbon capture and storage?
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) involves separating and capturing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from industrial emissions before it is released into the atmosphere.
How many dams does America have?
The average age of a dam in the United States is 61 years, leaving them susceptible to structural failure risks.
Which cities are experiencing longer and more intense heat waves?
Tampa, Florida has had the biggest increase in heat wave frequency. Philadelphia has experienced the greatest increase in heat wave intensity.
Is the US energy independent?
In 2019, the US became both a net exporter and net producer of energy for the first time in over 60 years.
How have oil prices changed in the US?
Oil prices have historically risen over time, but the last two decades have been particularly volatile.
How have flood insurance premiums changed?
FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0 system has redistributed flood insurance premiums for more than 5 million policyholders.
How much oil and gas comes from federal territory?
Adjustments to the federal land leasing program may change how much energy is produced on federal territory.
91% of households nationwide have air conditioning. 44% of those in Seattle do.
The recent heatwave hit some of the least air-conditioned cities in the country.
How much emissions do electric cars produce?
Electric vehicles release half as much greenhouse gas emissions as gas-powered cars on average.
What is the most common vehicle fuel type in each state?
Thirty-three million vehicles across the US rely on alternative fuels — which includes more than just electricity.
Which cities have the best and worst air quality?
Cities in the Southwestern US have the country’s worst air quality.
What impacts the price of oil?
Many factors can influence the price of a barrel of oil, including social and economic events, natural disasters, and geopolitical conflict.
How many electric cars are on the road in the United States?
About 1.4 million electric-drive vehicles of all types were sold in 2021, 88% more than in 2020.
Are US earthquakes becoming more costly?
Earthquakes — mostly on the West Coast — cost the US around $14.7 billion per year.
What are green banks?
Green banks are financial institutions that leverage both public and private funds to promote the shift toward clean energy.
How much of America’s clean energy infrastructure is built in the US?
The US lost 80% of its global solar market share from 2009 to 2019.
How much oil is produced in the US?
Since 2018, the US has been the largest producer of crude oil in the world.
Are major natural disasters increasing?
Of the 10 years with the most natural disasters, nine were in the last decade.
How much electricity would it take to power all cars if they were electric?
The US would need to produce 20-50% more electricity annually if all cars were electric vehicles.