Climate
Bid to boost vanishing tree canopy passes — but not everyone's happy

Illustration: Annelise Capossela/Axios
A new tree ordinance doesn't go far enough to protect the city's dwindling canopy, some critics say.
Driving the news: Approved by the City Council this month, the ordinance is intended to protect 10 times as many trees as the previous code.
It's time to prep for summer weather extremes, Seattle

Smoke from wildfires fills the air around the Space Needle on Sept. 16, 2020. Photo: Chona Kasinger/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Now is the time to prepare for another summer of extreme heat, wildfires and smoke in Seattle and Washington state.
Why it matters: Scientists say climate change is contributing to more extreme heat events, a longer wildfire season, and, at times, unprecedented levels of smoke in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
A really Rad ride in Seattle

The original RadRover model from Rad Power Bikes. Photo: Christine Clarridge/Axios
E-bikes are increasingly seen as key additions to attaining personal mobility while addressing climate change.
Driving the news: With more than 600,000 sales, the most popular e-bike company in the U.S. is based right here in Seattle.
Best Day Ever: Mike Radenbaugh, founder of Rad Power Bikes

Mike Radenbaugh, founder and chairman of Rad Power Bikes, with a RadRunner in the company's test ride fleet at the Ballard store. Photo: Christine Clarridge/Axios
We asked Rad Power Bikes founder and chairman Mike Radenbaugh what would constitute the best day ever in our beautiful Emerald City. Here's what he told us:
🌅 Weather: A sunny, dry, warm day in late summer.
Ready, set, sneeze: Seattle allergy season arrives

Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
The Pacific Northwest's temperate climate means we have some of the highest pollen counts in the country, especially when it comes to trees, and our late start to spring means peak season for some allergies could be starting now.
Driving the news: Warmer, drier and windier weather exacerbates pollen allergies in general. But tree, grass and ragweed pollen ramp up when the days are warm and the nights are cool, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

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