Climate & Environment

LA County’s beloved backyard bat survey returns this summer. What bat lovers should know

The data collected from the survey helps scientists and policy makers better understand how these nocturnal creatures live in big cities.

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A bat with yellow and gold hair with two long ears and a pink snout.

California overhauls carbon market — critics say it’s a giveaway to oil

California regulators overhauled the state's carbon market, potentially steering billions in free pollution permits to oil companies.

An oil refinery comprised of tall towers and heavy machinery is seen at dusk. Smoke arises from one of the towers in the middle of the photo.

Did California’s regulators miss signs of the Garden Grove toxic tank meltdown?

50,000 people evacuated. A chemical not covered by the state's toughest safety rules. How did this happen?

Water is sprayed over three large tanks outside, which have steam coming out of them.

Does LA now have its very own Jackie and Shadow? A bald eagle couple spotted nesting here

Their mating season is until July or August.

A bald eagle is seen perching on a pine tree branch in Los Angeles County. Another bald eagle is seen next to it, but it is obscured by a branch. The sky behind them is clear and blue. The branches are grey and there are green pine needles growing out of them with pine cones nearby as well.

Who caused the East LA oil spill? What we know about the companies that may be involved

An estimated 2,400 gallons of crude oil spilled onto East L.A. streets near homes, businesses and schools.

Crews wearing safety vests apply dirt on a street with oil on the pavement. A small plaza and bust stop are behind them.

What does rebuilding mean? These fire survivors showed us

LAist asked what rebuilding your life means after a disaster. Fire survivors shared.

A collage of two photos where the photo on the left shows a child inside an ADU smiling through an unfinished window, and the photo on the right shows empty lots with some construction spread out and the ocean in the distance on an overcast day.

Judge denies company’s attempt to keep cancer patients’ cases from going to trial

In 2024, a group of Southeast L.A. residents filed a lawsuit against Sterigenics, a company that uses a controversial chemical to sterilize medical equipment.

A glass door with lettering that reads "Sterigenics / A Sotera Health Company." Next to the glass door is a yellow sign that reads "CAUTION/ Ethylene Oxide. Door(s) shall be kept closed when not in use."

What’s next for neighbors living near Garden Grove factory at center of chemical scare?

OC fire officials reduced the 'safety zone' around the tank to 150 feet Thursday.

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Rose of people are in seats with a screen at the front and flags

Is there a facility like the Garden Grove chemical tank near you? How to find out

If the near-disaster in Orange County has you worried, you can find out about facilities near you — and keep tabs on them by getting involved with government regulators.

A photo of a giant tank with smoke and chemical coming out of it. On the photo it says, "CBS News Los Angeles: Hazmat Situation"

Reminder for Eastside households: You can still apply for free in-home air purifiers

Amid concerns following the East LA oil spill, residents in East LA and Boyle Heights can apply for free air purifiers through the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

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