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NPR's Brian Naylor reports that the House today approved the Safe Drinking Water Act. The bill...among other things...would require public water suppliers to inform consumers of impurities in their tap water. Republicans claim it shows their concern for the environment. But Democrats say Republicans are restricting the public's right-to-know on another issue...the Superfund law.

Business deregulation has led to more choices for consumers, but a tougher environment for business owners. In the first of a series of reports, NPR's Jim Zarroli examines the advantages and disadvantages of increased competition.

Eating less meat is good for your health and the environment. Now, a new study suggests genes may play a role in people's ability to stick to a strict vegetarian diet.

Natural gas utilities face a bleak future in a world increasingly concerned about climate change. An NPR investigation shows how they work to block local climate action and protect their business.

*Or it might not. After reading Southern California Gas Co.'s 618-word disclaimer on its leaking-gas-well updates, all we know for sure is that the future is a complete mystery.

For decades, coal represented half of the nation's electricity generation, but it dropped to only 34 percent for the month of March. While the decline is partially due to a warmer winter and stricter environmental regulations, the real culprit may be natural gas. Technological breakthroughs in fracking have led to a gas boom that's caused prices to plummet. As a result, power plants are switching from coal to natural gas and mines in Appalachia are shutting down.

The ban is designed to help the environment. It's not clear how Congress will be affected. In 2011, when Republicans captured the House, they restored Styrofoam cups to their cafeteria.

A nematode found deep in frozen sediment has proven its ability to survive extreme environments long term. Scientists studying the species say their work could inform the protection of other animals.

At the Olympic Games, concession stands serve drinks in reusable plastic "eco-cups." It's a sustainability measure, Olympic organizers say, but environmentalists say they increase waste.

A new study shows that as people mostly remained indoors during lockdowns last year, many bird species found less noisy and polluted cities more inviting.