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The Planet is the quarterly student magazine of Western Washington University's Huxley College of the Environment. Founded by students in 1979, it is the capstone course for students enrolled in Huxley College's undergraduate environmental journalism major.

The magazine's mission statement, as articulated by its student editors, is as follows: "We are dedicated to environmental advocacy and awareness through responsible journalism."

Green Burials by Danielle Koagel
Intimate Danger INTIMATE DANGER
Article by Danielle Koagel
Photography & Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Olwin

An in-depth look at the health dangers of toxins, such as phthalates, in sex toys.

Invisible Industry INVISIBLE INDUSTRY
Article by Celia Jackson
Photography by Eric Schmitz

Tiny technology is revolutionizing the industrial world. But nanotechnology’s behavior in both the human body and the environment is cause for concern.

Sustainable Sizzle SUSTAINABLE SIZZLE
Article by Elise Watness
Photography by Eric Schmitz

Fiamma Burger, Bellingham’s new sustainable restaurant, serves America’s favorite fast food with natural beef, clean energy, and 90 percent compostable and recyclable waste.

Outback in Business OUTBACK IN BUSINESS
Article by Emily Stebbins
Photography by Elizabeth Olwin

The Outback Outdoor Experiential Learning Site has historically been ignored or unknown by most. Student gardeners hope it grows into a welcoming and accessible place for everyone.

Green Collar Restoration GREEN COLLAR RESTORATION
Article by Anna Renzetti
Photography by Eric Schmitz

Washington Conservation Corps works to restore Bellingham’s natural resources.

Tainting Traditions TAINTING TRADITIONS
Article by Natasha Walker
Photography by Natasha Walker & Erin Middleton

Marine contaminants are infiltrating Washington’s shellfish and placing coastal Native Americans’ health in jeopardy. The consequences are steep, but the loss of the harvesting tradition may be greater.

Raising Cane Against Carbon RAISING CANE AGAINST CARBON
Article by Allison Rock
Photography by Kevin McMillion

Bamboo may now rise to it’s full potential. A new cloning strategy makes this carbon-reducing resource more available.

Law and the Natural Order LAW AND THE NATURAL ORDER
Article by Kassidy Vietti
Photography by Sho'leh Moll & Erin Middleton

Despite growing up in a family of insurance defense lawyers and a degree from Harvard Law School, David Bricklin sacrificed making lots of money to become an environmental lawyer.

Feel the Sting FEEL THE STING
Article by Megan Claflin
Photography by Todd Linder & Elizabeth Olwin

Honeybees are rapidly disappearing and scientists are unable to pinpoint a cause. Farmers and beekeepers fear the loss of one of agricultures most valued tools.

Green Burials GREEN BURIALS
Article by Peter Pearsall
Photography by Elizabeth Olwin

Modern funerals are costly affairs for both consumers and the environment. Embalmed remains and hardwood coffins inhibit decay and tack on thousands of dollars to burial expenses—leading many to seek a greener way to go.

Shroom Vacuum SHROOM VACUUM
Article by Emily Linroth
Photography by Eric Schmitz

The new leaders in environmental cleanup are some of nature’s oldest recyclers. Mushrooms emerge from the shadows, turning toxins into harmless compounds.

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