Hottest day ever, Apple Pay on SEPTA, Gritty & Green on EcoWURD & more

Here’s the latest sustainability news this week.

Monday set a new record as the hottest day ever globally, surpassing the previous day’s record, according to the European climate service Copernicus. The global average temperature reached 17.15°C (62.87°F). Climate scientists say this could be the warmest it’s been in 120,000 years due to human-caused climate change. Philadelphia Inquirer

Meredith Nutting on EcoWURD: Tune in on Friday, July 26th, at 10:20 AM EST to catch Meredith Nutting, host of the “Gritty and Green” podcast produced by Green Philly, on EcoWURD. This live conversation will be broadcast on WURD 96.1 FM/900 AM and Facebook Live. EcoWURD focuses on environmental justice in Black communities, examining the intersection of race, health, income, and the environment.

It’s getting easier to ride SEPTA. Riders can use Apple Pay on select routes of SEPTA Bus and Metro, and the complete rollout is coming on August 9th.

Despite Philadelphia’s Vision Zero initiative, over 100 people still die in traffic collisions annually in Philadelphia, according to Billy Penn. Recent deaths of a cyclist on Spruce Street and others have renewed calls for stronger safety measures, like concrete barriers in bike lanes. Critics argue Mayor Cherelle Parker’s budget cuts to Vision Zero undermine efforts, despite her commitment to traffic safety. Advocates push for better enforcement and infrastructure to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

Experts claim the city’s assurances that new artificial turf fields at FDR Park will be PFAS-free are misleading. Despite the city’s statement that the turf will not contain the harmful chemicals, three potential suppliers – FieldTurf, Shaw Sports Turf, and Sprinturf – did not respond to the Philadelphia Inquirer’s requests for samples to test for PFAS. Eleven residents have sued to halt the project, due to the presence of these “forever chemicals,” but the city plans to move forward with the turf installation. Philadelphia Inquirer

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.