Most popular stories of 2016

To say the launch year of Environment Journal has been an eventful one would be something of an understatement.

Brexit and political upsets aside, here are the stories from EJ during 2016 that grabbed your attention.

Thanks for all the support so far and get in touch if you’d like to contribute during 2017.

Natural capital: it’s smart to start with cities – Bruce Howard explains why we must treat the environment as a ‘form of capital’ and an asset

Will Heathrow plans be grounded by air pollution? – ClientEarth lawyer Alan Andrews outlines why Heathrow’s ambitions for expansion will come a cropper unless they are matched with an appetite for environmental protection

Has Scotland got the bottle for deposit return schemes? – Betsy Reed argues in favour of a drive for deposit schemes to boost recycling and reduce waste

Making eco homes affordable – how a social enterprise in Sheffield is turning shipping containers into affordable green homes

Three UK universities that are leading the way on sustainable buildings – Green Gown Awards contenders show how higher education is blazing a trail for sustainability

‘Unrealistic’ housing targets are ramping up the pressure on green belt – Paul Miner asks why England has seen a sharp rise in planned housing development on green belt when it’s supposed to be protected

Transforming household waste into renewable fuel – the local authority firm that’s delivering an environmentally friendly waste solution while saving local people money in the process

Abolition of DECC ‘raises urgent questions’ – the announcement that DECC is to be axed leaves MPs ‘astonished’

Smart cities: a smart act to follow – how Peterborough is using technology to maximise resources and reduce environmental impact

Robin Hood Energy: one year on – chief executive Gail Scholes reveals how a company set up by Nottingham City Council is faring in its attempt to take on the Big Six energy suppliers