California

Memorably described as "living hell" by Johnny Cash, San Quentin is one of the USA's most infamous prisons. However, it's now receiving a Nordic-themed makeover that will focus on fostering a calming, campus-like atmosphere of rehabilitation.

Following a similar decision in the European Union, the state of California has announced it's phasing out new sales of diesel and gasoline cars by 2035, setting aggressive targets along the way. This move will have dramatic effects across the USA.

Results from the first year of a small basic income trial in California show those receiving monthly unconditional payments report increased rates of employment and improved mental health. Full results of the 24 month trial will be released next year.

A broad reform bill has been proposed in California that would see the possession and use of a number of psychedelic drugs decriminalized. The bill proposes to expunge all psychedelic-related criminal convictions and allow “social sharing” of the drugs.

Almost three years after revealing its autonomous delivery vehicle, Nuro is about to start commercial operations in California. Initially, service needs will be met by fully autonomous Prius vehicles, but the R2 delivery pods won't be far behind.

Construction recently began on a new three-building office campus in San Jose, California, that's designed by high-profile firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates. Named Platform 16, the project's overall form is said to shimmer in sunlight.

California has now officially banned the distribution of maliciously deceptive audio and video content that misrepresents political candidates.

During a recent expedition to the Gulf of California, a team of marine biologists discovered huge schools of fishes living in an environment that’s almost completely devoid of oxygen – levels well below the amount previously thought necessary for these animals.

Google released plans for its new Charleston East headquarters back in 2015. After some doubt, the project is now well underway. The company isn't content to stop there, but also has plans for land nearby. It aims to turn it into a pedestrian-friendly area with offices, housing and retail space.

Back in 2010, we first heard about how the state of California was looking at introducing digital electronic license plates. Well, it's recently done so, and it's got the ball rolling by outfitting the City of Sacramento's fleet of Chevrolet Bolt EVs with Reviver Auto's Rplate Pro.

As of Jan. 1st, 2020, all new homes built in California will be required to have solar photovoltaic systems. The ruling is part of the California Energy Commission's newly-instituted 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Google must be pleased with BIG's work on its Charleston East and London HQ's as the tech giant has commissioned the architecture firm to design yet another new campus. This one will be located in Sunnyvale, California, and comprises two green-roofed buildings with long, sloping terraces.