Boiling Point Continues Amid Changes
Over five years ago, at the onset of COVID-19, I released the inaugural edition of Boiling Point. Back then, I mentioned that there would always be individuals who claim it’s a poor time to discuss issues like carbon emissions, water pollution, or the crisis of extinction. However, I insisted that keeping climate change in the spotlight was crucial, even during a time of such uncertainty.
This viewpoint remains valid today. Even now, as the Trump administration intensifies its scrutiny of democracy, immigration, and any form of opposition, the need to talk about climate issues remains. Therefore, Boiling Point will carry on, even with my departure from the LA Times.
That’s right. I’ve made the tough decision to leave the LA Times, with my last day being Tuesday.
But I’m far from finished with the climate conversation. My wonderful colleagues and friends feel the same way.
I’m not ready to disclose my future plans just yet. If you’d like to keep up with what I’m doing, feel free to email me. I’ll ensure you stay in the loop. I genuinely look forward to seeing what comes next.
Leaving is certainly bittersweet. My time at the Times has been a significant privilege. Thank you for allowing me into your inbox and taking the time to engage with my stories when you might have chosen to be distracted in other ways. I truly value our discussions, dialogues, and even our disagreements; I only wish there were more of them.
Equally important is the hope that you’ll continue to support the LA Times, particularly our environmental team.
Not to understate other news outlets, but we have some of the finest reporters around, including Tyrone Beeson, Tony Briscoe, Noah Haggerty, and many others. If you haven’t explored their work, you might be missing out.
Starting next week, various colleagues will alternate writing Boiling Point. This will result in a blend of analyses and news summaries, bringing a fresh perspective with each edition. For instance, Ian James focuses on water, while Lyla Seidman takes on wildlife, and Tony Briscoe looks at air quality, resulting in a diverse range of insights.
The newsletter will still reach your inbox each Thursday. It’s definitely worth reading.
Just like climate change, journalism is increasingly vital, and this is especially true for local news.
Thank you truly for everything. Go ahead and take care.
One more thing
For a trip down memory lane, here are some of my favorite environmental pieces from my seven years at the LA Times, and yes, I’ll include some of my own work.
Tracking the impact of plastic use: A harrowing diary
Colorado River Crisis: A series on the shrinking water lifeline in the Southwest
Fishing the LA River: More than just a quarantine hobby—it’s a form of therapy
Is it ethical to bring children into a world facing climate change?
The West’s energy landscape is shifting as cities consume more power
Rising seas threaten California’s coast, forcing tough decisions
Investigating deaths caused by heatwaves
Uncovering toxic soil in Los Angeles fire zones
This is the latest edition of Boiling Point, a newsletter focused on climate change and environmental issues in the American West. If you’d like to receive it, sign up to get it sent directly to your inbox.
