World Cup 2026 brings sustainability promises and environmental concerns

World Cup 2026 brings sustainability promises and environmental concerns
Great Lakes Echo
By Isabella Figueroa Nogueira As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, cities across North America are preparing for an influx of fans, matches and global attention - including Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) in Canada. Along with the excitement comes growing concern about the tournament’s environmental impact.
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New book dives into history of ‘phenomenal’ Great Lakes ship architect 

New book dives into history of ‘phenomenal’ Great Lakes ship architect 
Great Lakes Echo
By Lily Cole A new book explores the life of a prolific Midwestern naval architect whose vessels once carried passengers who are still alive today.
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Great Lakes show signs of declining PFAS pollution

Great Lakes show signs of declining PFAS pollution
Great Lakes Echo
By Riley Wilson Rising levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination are prompting scientists to question whether the Great Lakes can safely sustain surrounding communities. A recent study shows signs of declining PFAS pollution in these waters using archived fish.
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Hospitality and tourism industry scrambling to find seasonal summer help

Hospitality and tourism industry scrambling to find seasonal summer help
Great Lakes Echo
By Bauyrzhan Zhaxylykov Michigan’s tourism industry is preparing for another busy season, with strong visitor demand expected across the state. However, industry experts warn that staffing challenges remain a key concern.
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More Michigan schools move toward EV buses

More Michigan schools move toward EV buses
Great Lakes Echo
By Bauyrzhan Zhaxylykov Michigan is accelerating its transition to electric school buses, with dozens of districts adding new vehicles through a state-funded program aimed at replacing older diesel fleets.
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Fish tumors an indicator of ecological health, study says

Fish tumors an indicator of ecological health, study says
Great Lakes Echo
By Samantha Ku Skin and liver tumors in fish may provide clues to ecosystem health in the Great Lakes region, according to a recent study in the journal Ecotoxicology.
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Gas prices, driver shortages challenge public transit agencies

Gas prices, driver shortages challenge public transit agencies
Great Lakes Echo
By Christian Vazquez Mass transit systems in rural areas in Michigan are facing major challenges today, the state’s top public transit executive says.
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Rooted in community, farmers markets continue to grow

Rooted in community, farmers markets continue to grow
Great Lakes Echo
By Lily Cole Nationally, farmers markets are growing rapidly. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported 2,863 markets in 2000, with that number rising to more than 8,700 in 2025. In Michigan alone, more than 200 markets offer amenities for patrons, including fresh produce and special events.
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State grants will boost STEM education in K-12 schools

State grants will boost STEM education in K-12 schools
Great Lakes Echo
By Christian Vazquez Michigan is awarding $800,000 to 17 school districts in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas to advance STEM education.
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Grants will boost research on PFAS contamination of farmland

Grants will boost research on PFAS contamination of farmland
Great Lakes Echo
By Karlee VanAntwerp The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will give out $400,000 in grants for research about PFAS on farmlands and livestock.
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Investing in greenspaces bring benefits to schools, student well-being

Investing in greenspaces bring benefits to schools, student well-being
Great Lakes Echo
By Samantha Plunkett For residents of Dearborn, Michigan, creating greenspaces in the community has been an important mission for schools and researchers. In a recent study, academics from the University of Michigan-Dearborn partnered with Salina schools to assess their outdoor play spaces.
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Funding cuts hamper conservation groups’ invasive species efforts

Funding cuts hamper conservation groups’ invasive species efforts
Great Lakes Echo
Michigan reduced funding for invasive species projects by $1.2 million. Conservation organizations like the regional Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAs) are rethinking their funding priorities for 2026 and beyond.
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