The vast amount of information – and misinformation – out there about the environment makes it difficult to get a solid understanding of the discussion. What we really need is a collection of clear, pointed, engaging pieces to serve as a primer on the biggest issues. If only we had such a thing …

Wait, what’s this? The Society of Environmental Journalists named the winners of its 7th Annual Awards for Reporting on the Environment?

Hmmm. Let’s see what we find …

How corruption and self-interest can ruin seemingly noble green initiatives …

Why it’s inherently difficult to ‘go green’ and the lies we tell to convince ourselves it’s working …

How carbon offsets work (or don’t) …

Just how damaging a contributor to greenhouse gases coal is …

Why warming warnings have been ignored or hushed up by our leaders …

What exactly climate change is and the role of carbon emissions and biofuels in it …

The role of China's economic boom …

How our unquenchable thirst for convenient products ends up impacting our oceans …

Whether ethanol is part of the cure or the disease …

How to recapture the vigor of youth by investigating vernal pools …

(OK, that last one didn’t really win any awards. In fact, it was probably only read by about five people. But, dammit, it’s hard-hitting stuff!)

So whether you’re just starting to learn about the issues or you’re an environment-news junkie itchin’ for a fix, click on any of the above and dive into some of the best information out there. Give ‘em a read, then come back to let us know what you think by commenting below.