WRI Insights

Energy prices and water use aren't the only ways data centers affect U.S. communities. We break down the impacts — and how some states are dealing with them.

AI doesn't have to be bad for the planet. It can help us fight climate change, protect nature and improve lives — but only if it's used with care.

U.S. electricity prices have risen nearly 30% since 2010. Learn what’s driving higher power bills — and what can be done to bring consumers relief.

Information — and misinformation — is swirling about renewables and their costs, benefits and reliability. Here, we set the record straight. 

We asked five WRI experts how this year’s El Niño may differ from past events.

New data shows that forest fires are getting worse, burning more than twice as much tree cover today as they did 20 years ago, largely due to climate change.

We asked WRI experts Carter Brandon and Ruth Engel how people, cities and health systems can adapt to extreme heat.

Trees can make it feel up to 14 degrees cooler. Yet analysis shows many cities are leaving large areas of plantable land underutilized. 

As the Iran war causes fuel shortages and price spikes around the world, some countries are faring better thanks to abundant clean energy.

Strengthening the world's food and energy systems offers a buffer against not only war, but climate change and other growing threats. 

WRI water expert Liz Saccoccia explains how the war in Iran could intensify water crises, potentially amplifying risks to food security, energy and stability across the Middle East.

As U.S. farmers face rising costs and threats to their land, on-farm solar panels may offer a critical lifeline.

From Unicorn Burgers to reimagined meatballs, food service providers are getting creative with their plant-based offerings. In the process, they’re saving money and reducing their planetary impact.

With vehicle-to-grid technology, electric school buses can send stored power back to the grid, helping communities and generating revenue for local schools.

Shenzhen is implementing 113 near-zero carbon demonstration projects, an ambitious plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce energy costs and expand parks and walkways. In the process, it's creating a blueprint for a modern green city.