The Big Environmental Issues of 2026

Feb. 23, 2026

From microplastics and PFAS to data centers and the priorities of a new governor on the horizon, 2026 could be one of the most contentious years ever for environmental causes around northern Michigan. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of organizations dedicated to protecting our air, water, soil, and wildlife. In this week's Northern Express, sister publication of The Ticker, writer Karl Klockars speaks to four of them to find out what is top of mind for this year.

Flow Water Advocates, the Conservation Resource Alliance, Citizen's Climate Lobby (Grand Traverse Area Chapter), and Northern Michigan Environmental Action Council weigh in on their key objectives for 2026, changes that could impact northern Michigan, projects they're monitoring at the state and federal level, and more. The Northern Express is available to read online, or pick up a free copy on newsstands at more than 650 locations in 13 counties across northern Michigan.