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A prototype of a small modular reactor
Student Newsroom

The University of Illinois hopes to build a smaller, safer and smarter nuclear reactor. Here’s what’s next

Forty-five years ago, the worst commercial nuclear accident to occur in the United States happened at Three Mile Island power plant in Middleton, Pennsylvania. Thousands of people had to evacuate due to a malfunction and human error causing a steam explosion in one of the reactors.

A person heats up a frying pan over a gas stove.
Student Newsroom

Electrochemical device developed at UIUC offers sustainable solution for PFAS removal

A class of synthetic chemicals, commonly referred to as PFAS, have raised concerns because of their link to cancers and other illnesses and their environmental persistence. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign scientists are working on developing new approaches to removing these “forever chemicals” from the environment.

Wind turbines stand on a field.
Environment | Student Newsroom

Illinois is transitioning to cleaner energy. Here’s how it is impacting some rural communities

Up to 50 wind turbines are set to operate in Piatt County, Illinois, as part of the Prosperity Wind project from Apex Clean Energy. Standing more than 600 feet tall, they are the largest turbines in the state.

A person holds a stress ball while another person touches their wrist.
Health | Student Newsroom

Caregivers play a crucial role in the health care system. But their needs are often unmet

Family caregivers play an important role in the well-being of older adults and can help in their recovery after an illness or hospitalization. But communication between the health care system and caregivers it often lacking.

Urbana City Council tables measure that would require approval for police surveillance technology
Criminal Justice | Student Newsroom

Urbana City Council tables measure that would require approval for police surveillance technology

Officials in Urbana have tabled an ordinance that would require the city’s police department to seek approval before purchasing and using surveillance technology, including license plate readers, facial recognition software, drones, social media analytics software, mobile X-Rays and tools used to gain access to a mobile device. 

A man in a yellow jacket stands in front of a wetland landscape
Environment | Student Newsroom

Amidst a biodiversity crisis, these Champaign County groups are working to restore native ecosystems

The Midwest has seen an incredible loss of native prairies and wetlands over the past few centuries. The changes have been driven primarily by farming and urban sprawl. But in east-central Illinois, several initiatives aim to bring back native ecosystems. 

A man dressed as Santa talks to a young boy holding a baby doll.
Community | Student Newsroom

The Champaign Urbana Autism Network hosts annual sensory-friendly breakfast

With Christmas just around the corner, the Champaign Urbana Autism Network hosted its sensory-friendly breakfast Sunday, at the City Center in Champaign. Children with autism can struggle waiting for hours in crowded places, which can make it hard to attend other holiday events for kids, said Julie Duvall, executive director of CU Autism Network. “It’s…


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