Meris Lutz

Meris Lutz is a contributing writer covering climate, the environment and the economy. She writes about the impacts of climate change on people’s daily lives, from invasive species in the garden to more expensive power bills on the kitchen table. She is particularly interested in stories that explore the intersections between climate change and labor, markets, health, biodiversity, government transparency and public access to natural resources.

Latest from Meris Lutz

Legislative session ends with few wins for Georgia environmentalists

Georgia's legislative session ended with few wins for environmentalists and consumer advocates concerned about the Okefenokee, data centers and rising power bills.

Georgia farmers, schools and food banks warn of impact of food aid cuts

The U.S. Department of Agriculture canceled or paused at least $1.5 billion in funding that had been approved in the waning days of the Biden administration.

Bill to limit lawsuits against crop chemical makers heads to Gov. Kemp

A bill to shield manufacturers of crop chemicals from liability passed both chambers of the Georgia legislature, and now Gov. Brian Kemp will have the final say.

$220M in appliance rebates for Georgians were frozen. Funds are flowing again

Hundreds of millions of federal dollars meant to help Georgians make their homes more energy efficient have begun to flow through the state.

Solar installations surged in the U.S. and Georgia in 2024. That growth might not last

The U.S. and Georgia both notched record-breaking years for new solar installation in 2024. A new industry report warns that momentum might not last.

Southern Co. full-year profits rise with Georgia Power customer bills

Southern Company had a dip in fourth quarter earnings due to impact from Hurricane Helene, but saw its full-year profits grow.

State seeks to fine Atlanta nearly $300,000 over alleged wastewater violations

State environmental regulators have proposed fining the city of Atlanta nearly $300,000 for wastewater violations at the RM Clayton treatment plant.

Trump funding freeze puts $1 billion investment in Georgia power grid on ice

A least $1 billion in projects designed to modernize Georgia’s power grid remains in limbo amid President Trump's efforts to freeze certain federal funding.

How business and community leaders are responding to Atlanta ICE arrests

Arrests by immigration agents have driven uncertainty and concerns for some businesses and community leaders.

Wildfires are ravaging Southern California. What is Georgia’s risk?

Georgia is not as vulnerable as California, but experts say overdevelopment or poor management of wooded areas combined with shifts in climate could increase the threat.