Axios

Surprising new data highlights how the rising global popularity of SUVs makes fighting climate change that much tougher.

Why it matters: Cutting carbon dioxide from transportation is needed to keep temperatures from blowing too far past Paris Agreement goals.

Oil giant ConocoPhillips is acquiring the big producer Marathon Oil in a $17 billion all-stock deal (it's $22.5 billion including debt).

Why it matters: It's the latest domino to fall in the rapid consolidation of large U.S.-based players.

Birding is a hot hobby in the post-pandemic era.

Why it matters: It comes with a slew of perks, from boosting mental health to aiding scientific discovery.

By the numbers: 96 million Americans — more than 35% of people who are 16+ — have taken part in bird-watching or bird conservation activities, according to a 2022 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service survey.

At least 25 people were killed as severe storms struck multiple states this weekend.

Why it matters: This year now sits at second place for reported tornadoes to date, behind 2011's record-setting year.

The White House just launched efforts to clean up the Wild West of carbon credit markets — and help them grow.

Why it matters: These credits can help companies cut emissions by financing renewables projects, forest protection, and more.

The death toll from a tornado outbreak that damaged multiple states across the U.S. over Memorial Day weekend has risen to at least 23. More severe weather was forecast Monday, this time targeting the East Coast.

The big picture: Widespread damage has been reported across the Ohio and Tennessee Valley region from storms on Sunday, particularly in Kentucky where an estimated 82,000-plus customers were still without power early Tuesday.

Mexico is facing the triple threats of a searing heat wave, drought and in the nation's capital water shortages that experts say are being amplified by climate change.

The big picture: The heat dome that's parked over the country has resulted in the deaths of dozens of people and animals from heat stroke and dehydration.