Michael J. Coren

San Francisco, CA

Climate Advice Columnist

Education: Emory University, BA in environmental studies and journalism; Yale University, MESc in environmental science

Michael is a journalist writing the "Climate Coach" advice column for The Washington Post. Before joining the Post in 2022, he spent nearly two decades as a reporter and editor covering climate, technology, and economics for outlets such as Quartz and CNN.com, and served as managing editor of Cambodia’s Phnom Penh Post.
Latest from Michael J. Coren

What I learned when I tried installing a wind turbine on my house

The government is helping homeowners buy small wind turbines. Could home wind become as familiar as solar panels?

July 11, 2023

The plant protein that could push meat off your plate

A farm in California is trying to grow a plant-based protein that tastes better than its animal counterparts.

June 27, 2023

We’re building roofs wrong. A different approach can save money and lives.

Cool roofs could lower energy bills, save lives and even cool the planet itself.

June 20, 2023

Why EVs won’t crash the electric grid — and more

Coach Coach readers are thinking hard about the next industrial revolution. Here are some answers.

June 13, 2023

The East Coast is finally having its climate moment

Wildfire smoke made climate change real, for me. Will millions on the East Coast feel the same?

June 8, 2023

Mr. Bean says ‘our honeymoon with electric cars is coming to an end.’ It’s just the beginning.

Electric vehicles are not perfect, but they are the better choice for millions of people right now.

June 6, 2023

Why you should buy everything used

We’re headed for a world where buying second-hand may become nearly as easy, even preferable, as buying new for many goods.

May 23, 2023

Can our grid support electric vehicles for all? Your climate questions answered.

Washington Post Climate Coach Michael Coren answered your questions on Thursday, May 18, at 1 p.m. Eastern to help you live a planet-friendly life.

May 18, 2023

Which fruits and vegetables are best to plant for the environment

How to plant the best garden for the climate.

May 16, 2023