New York Times: One of the misconceptions about weaning ourselves from dependence on petroleum-powered vehicles is that there will be a "Eureka!" moment of discovery when someone discovers a quick way to extract hydrogen from the air to propel the world's vehicles. "Not so fast," said Robert J. Natkin of Ford Motor Co. at the fourth annual AltWheels Alternative Transportation Festival held at City Hall Plaza and Larz Anderson Museum in Brookline recently. "It's not happening ...Link (VIA- EcologicalInternet.org (Dr. Glen Barry ;-)Dec 4, 2006
Alternative evolution filled with myth & misconceptions
New York Times: One of the misconceptions about weaning ourselves from dependence on petroleum-powered vehicles is that there will be a "Eureka!" moment of discovery when someone discovers a quick way to extract hydrogen from the air to propel the world's vehicles. "Not so fast," said Robert J. Natkin of Ford Motor Co. at the fourth annual AltWheels Alternative Transportation Festival held at City Hall Plaza and Larz Anderson Museum in Brookline recently. "It's not happening ...Link (VIA- EcologicalInternet.org (Dr. Glen Barry ;-)
GM tests "100% bio-derived diesel-like fuel"
General Motors vehicles will soon be used in tests of a "100% bio-derived diesel-like fuel" run by the school and GS AgriFuels Corporation, part of the GreenShift Corporation. The fuel comes from biomass gasification and gas-to-liquids systems developed by Clarkson professor Dr. Philip Leveson and ZeroPoint Clean Technology. GS Agrifuels says these systems "allow a wide range of biomass feedstocks and municipal waste streams to be converted to carbon-neutral transportation fuel." Also: the technology "can gasify virtually any plant-derived material and convert the resultant gas into electricity, valuable fuels and other chemicals."
GreenShift deals in biodiesel, ethanol and biomethanol, so the carefully worded "100% bio-derived diesel-like fuel" strikes me as interesting. Odd, but interesting. Scanning other news stories and press releases about this project, no one says it's biodiesel, so there must be a technical difference between this new fuel and traditional B100. Anyone have any insights?
[Source: Renewable Energy Access / VIA-www.autobloggreen.com]
Biofuels skeptics make case at Oregon farm show
Despite the promise of higher crop prices and more jobs, alternative fuel production isn't for every area of the country. In eastern Oregon a businessman and scientist were poking holes in the ethanol balloon at a farm show. Their numbers show a problem with growing enough canola seed and dealing with the byproducts. A plant producing 5 million gallons of biodiesel would create 242,000 pounds of canola meal every day. More than 40,000 cows would have to eat six pounds a day to eliminate the byproduct. The energy balance is also a concern of the scientist, who is a self-described "biofuels skeptic." He suggests looking toward other bioproducts such as biobutanol to help replace jet fuel.[Source: Dean Brickey / East Oregonian/ VIA www.autobloggreen.com]
Here come Vampire Hybrids!
Genetically engineered blood protein can split water into oxygen and hydrogen 
The researchers AT Imperial College London have combined a protein called albumin with porphyrin to create a molecular complex that can absorb light energy, to allow it to split up water molecules. Porphyrin is the molecule that carries oxygen around in the blood-stream. The albumin is genetically engineered to improve the efficiency of the whole process. Sooner or later scientists will find a process that allows for simple localized production of hydrogen. Since hydrogen is the most common element in the known universe, and obviously reacts and combines with so many other elements, there is bound to be a way to reverse the process efficiently.
[Source: Imperial College London - VIA http://www.autobloggreen.com/]
The researchers AT Imperial College London have combined a protein called albumin with porphyrin to create a molecular complex that can absorb light energy, to allow it to split up water molecules. Porphyrin is the molecule that carries oxygen around in the blood-stream. The albumin is genetically engineered to improve the efficiency of the whole process. Sooner or later scientists will find a process that allows for simple localized production of hydrogen. Since hydrogen is the most common element in the known universe, and obviously reacts and combines with so many other elements, there is bound to be a way to reverse the process efficiently.[Source: Imperial College London - VIA http://www.autobloggreen.com/]
Since 1932 Everyone has know Carbon Dioxide Causes Global Warming
Global Warming is nothing NEW - Dahhh!
A magazine from 1932 with some details about warning is a little shocking. But look at this one from a 1953 magazine; "Earths ground temperature is rising 1-1/2 degrees a century as a result." Those numbers are not bad for a half a century ago! » original news (Thanks hugg.com! ; -)
The Russian NUKES are coming
" Russia will build 42 nuclear reactors by 2030 as part of an ambitious program to revive its atomic power industry." "Russia now has 31 reactors at 10 nuclear power plants, accounting for 16-17 percent of Russia's electricity generation, and President Vladimir Putin has called for raising the share to 25 percent." » original news (VIA-http://www.hugg.com)
Wal*Mart 'bad guy' to be head of the class?
Would you believe Wal-Mart is out to make the world a greener place…through radically altered business practices. And their looking for just the right person to help them do this (via two steps forward)
Turns out, Wal-Mart engaged Environmental Defense about a year ago, when the company embarked on a new environmental initiative.
Lee Scott, Wal-Mart's CEO, had just given a speech on "twenty-first century leadership" (download - PDF), where he acknowledged that:
"As one of the largest companies in the world, with an expanding global presence, environmental problems are OUR problems."
He set forth three ambitious environmental goals: that Wal-Mart be supplied 100% by renewable energy, that it create "zero waste," and that it sell products "that sustain our resources and environment."
The job, formally titled "Corporate Partnerships Project Manager - Wal-Mart," symbolizes a sea change in environmental activism. Environmental Defense is positioning someone in Bentonville — not to confront or watchdog Wal-Mart, but to work with the company as a kind of sustainability consultant.
The ideal candidate, says Environmental Defense, is someone who would never have imagined moving to Arkansas, but who understands the potential for this job to influence a $315 billion retail behemoth and its 60,000 suppliers — arguably, to have as much direct environmental impact as any activist or consultant ever could.
By Ken Stokes kauaian.net/blog
Will green TV get a green light
There's an upcoming wave of green TV shows, Sundance is launching "Channel Green," and then there's "E-topia," an eco-reality series with Leonardo DiCaprio.
What we're seeing is the greening of Hollywood, according to Joel Makower (via worldchanging).
Check this out: "E-topia" will chronicle the eco-friendly reconstruction of an American town as it is transformed into a "'green' utopia of tomorrow."
You get the idea. There are others, several with a green building, "This Old Green House," sensibility.
As Makower avers, "It's unclear whether any of these shows will actually get greenlit. But I'm rooting that at least one of them catches fire and helps to build a new green meme."
Fighting the "feel good" fight
"The happiest excitement in life is to be convinced that one is fighting for all one is worth on behalf of some clearly seen and deeply felt good."
Quote - Ruth Benedict
Dec 3, 2006
Water recycling dominates climate change forum discussions
An ACT and New South Wales government funded forum has been told more needs to be done in the way of water recycling if the region is to tackle climate change. The three-day Capital Region Climate Change Forum is made up of ACT and interstate residents who are discussing ideas and policy directions with a number of experts in the field. Chris Reedy from the Institute for Sustainable Futures says there has been a suggestion of subsidies for solar power and double-glazing for all ...Link (VIA-EcologicalInternet.org (Dr. Glen Barry)
RMI discuss the future of energy.
Haven't heard Amory Lovins speak before? Then you owe it to yourself to watch the CEO of the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) discuss alternative fuels and the future of energy.
Lovins veritable goldmine of knowledge, optimism and wit and data-based strategy will leave you wondering why, if this makes so much sense, is our national energy policy so far from making sense.
Perhaps you knew that Lovins authored RMI's Pentagon-cofunded 2004 study, "Winning the Oil Endgame" which provides a roadmap for eliminating U.S. oil use by the 2040s and revitalizing the economy, all led by business for profit.
Post VIA Ken Stokes on feats
Renewable energy truth from the auto industry
From the head of GM: First, electricity offers outstanding benefits... beginning with the opportunity to diversify fuel sources upstream of the vehicle. In other words, the electricity that is used to drive the vehicle can be made from the best local fuel sources Maybe the industry (and the nation) won't drop the ball... Read more by Engineer-Poet Renewable energy and the auto industry
Dec 2, 2006
EPA Employees Petition Congress for Scientific Free Speech Protection
Leaders of 22 union locals representing some 10,000 EPA employees have asked Congress to protect them from reprisals for speaking out on the science of global warming and environmental health. The Bush administration forbids agency scientists to speak to news media without press office "minders" supervising what they say. VIA - sej.org
EPA Backs Down Halfway on Toxic Data Cutbacks
EPA seems to have backed down halfway on its threat to cut the amount of information the U.S. public gets about toxic substances that industry puts in their air, water, and soil. EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson wrote two New Jersey senators that he had decided not to switch the agency's Toxics Release Inventory from annual to every-other-year reporting. But EPA still plans other changes that would leave more than a thousand U.S. communities with no data -- despite a 231-187 vote by the House against the plan in May 2006. Associated Press in the Washington Post 11/30/06 VIA - sej.org
Report on Chlorinated Solvents in US Groundwater
Chlorinated Solvents in Groundwater of the United States Michael J. Moran, John S. Zogorski, and Paul J. Squillace (Article) DOI: 10.1021/es061553y
Drink up Johnny!
| Coffee drinkers show lower diabetes risk...Researchers found that among more than 12,000 middle-aged adults, those who drank four or more cups of coffee each day had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who rarely had a cup. |
Cattle produce more global warming gases than cars
|
Mongabay.com: Livestock-rearing generates more greenhouse gases than transportation according to a new report from the United Nations (U.N.), which adds that improved production methods could go a long way towards cutting emissions of gases reponsible for global warming. "Livestock are one of the most significant contributors to today's most serious environmental problems," said Henning Steinfeld, a senior UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) official and lead author of the report. "Urgent ...Link (VIA-EcologicalInternet.org (Dr. Glen Barry)
Comments by Haase:
Seriously, most people would have a far greater impact on the environment by going "vegan" than goin "hybrid"... The key is to live a lifestyle that is respective to all this that have a "Eco-Impact". But, if we all do "something", together we can make a difference.
CO2 could also be used tohelp harvest methane gas
A clue to the future of the Illinois oil industry might be found 1,000 miles to the north at a complex of steel pipes and towers rising from the North Dakota prairie. There, at the Great Plains Synfuel Plant, lignite, a poor-quality coal, is turned into natural gas. And plant emissions of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas linked to global warming, are captured and transported 200 miles via pipeline to an oil field in Saskatchewan where the gas is injected into wells to help boost output.Source: St. Louis Dispatch. (VIA-http://www.glrppr.org)
Dec 1, 2006
'QuickTips' and Happy Holidays From OSHA
'QuickTips' from QuickTakes - Perhaps we can all be forgiven for wanting to focus a bit on a festive holiday spirit over the next few weeks. But, while we're doing that, let's not lose sight of some workplace safety issues that, while important each day of the year, have a dynamic ring during this season. For example, let's talk electrical and carbon monoxide hazards.
- Use only factory-assembled electrical cord sets and extension cords that are 3-wire type.
- Visually inspect all electrical equipment before use; remove any equipment with frayed cords, missing ground prongs, cracked tool casings, etc.
- Ground all power supply systems, electrical circuits, and electrical equipment.
- Ensure space heaters and stoves are in good working order to reduce carbon monoxide (CO) buildup.
- Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces; generators need 3-4 feet of clear space for adequate ventilation.
- CO monitors with audible alarms should be employed whenever possible.
Visit OSHA's Web site for more resources on reducing and preventing accidents involving electrical and carbon monoxide hazards. Look for more safety and health 'QuickTips' in the next issue. Stay safe, and happy holidays! Enjoy OSHA QuickTakes? Click here to signup for FREE updates
Other important news from OSHA this month
OSHA offers Tips for Employers on Safe and Sober Workplace PartiesThe holiday season and workplace parties often go hand-in-hand. However, when alcohol is served, these celebrations can have dangerous consequences if someone drives home under the influence. DOL's Working Partners for an Alcohol- and Drug-Free Workplace Web site offers a number of tips for employers and employees on how they can work together to help prevent impaired driving in their communities and send a safe and sober message about workplace parties and drinking.
OSHA has posted on its Web site a new "Your Rights as a Whistleblower" fact sheet, which explains employee rights if an employer retaliates against the employee for participating in protected workplace safety and health activities. In addition, OSHA posted an updated fact sheet on "The OSHA Consultation Program."
OSHA Training Classes Offered... A number of free training courses are being offered this month in Metairie, La. Excavation and Trenching Competent Person is scheduled for Dec. 4 and 19; Scaffold Competent Person for Dec. 12; OSHA 7600 16-hour Disaster Site Worker for Dec. 13-14; and Forklift/Lull Competent Person for Dec. 20. All courses are free to private company employees under OSHA jurisdiction, and who are actively involved in hurricane recovery work. For more information, contact Beverlee at bcarrick@buildsafe.org
Latest Alliance News National Office: Employees working in the machine automation industry will continue reaping benefits from an alliance renewed between the Association for High Technology Distribution and OSHA. Region IV: Highway and road construction workers will benefit from an alliance to be signed Dec. 5 between OSHA's Atlanta Region and the Georgia Department of Transportation which is aimed at preventing highway construction worker fatalities and serious injuries.
New SHARP Certifications Visit OSHA's "Who's Newly SHARP" Web page to see the latest list of companies recently certified as Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) sites. The SHARP program recognizes small employers who operate an exemplary safety and health management system.
OSHA Administrator Announces New Appointments
Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke Jr. announced key executive personnel appointments at the agency, including the appointment of two deputy assistant secretaries, a new chief of staff and two new directorate heads. C. Bryan Little and Donald G. Shalhoub were appointed deputy assistant secretaries; Gabe Sierra is the new OSHA chief of staff; Steven F. Witt is the new director of the Directorate of Construction, and Dorothy Dougherty is the new director of the Directorate of Standards and Guidance.
Serious new book on destruction caused by pseudo-environmentalist
There's a new book in town (from John Berlau); EcoFreaks. "Far from being a crackpot, Berlau exposes leading environmentalists for the crackpots, often dishonest crackpots, they are. More importantly, more shockingly, Berlau patiently explains in detail just how environmentalism, often based on pseudo-science or outright falsity, is killing people or subjecting them to unnecessary danger." i know you might think, well, what kind of tripe has that guy been swallowing? But you see this guy cares for all the poor dying kids in Africa who would be saved if it weren't for the agenda to get rid of DDT ...» original news Commentary (by Haase)
With all the GREAT Environmental Scientists that have been saving our country from itself for the last three decades, it is hard to listen sometimes to criticism. However, a good Environmentalist will read all information as the truth often "lies" somewhere in the middle - This article makes some valid points about the far reaching destruction pseudo-environmentalist have by not understanding basic science & economics or how "simple" fixes can lead to decades of devastating ramifications» original news
Are Organic Foods Better for You?
"Organic can be a gimmick," said Dr. David Katz, associate clinical professor of public health and medicine at Yale University in New Haven, Conn. "For example, marshmallows could be organic, but so what? Organic Cheese Doodles could be made, but wouldn't be nutritious." "Most consumers don't know what the term 'organic' means, how it differs from certified organic, and it clearly is a perception of better — marketing at its best," said Connie Diekman, a registered dietitian and director of university nutrition at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. Read full here
Could your desktop be a time bomb?
Producing computers requires the mining, processing, and transporting of massive quantities of raw materials — almost two tons of such stuff is required to produce the average desktop PC and monitor, according to a 2004 United Nations' study. The fabrication just of a single two-gram microchip causes more than 50 pounds of waste, some of it toxic. On the consumer end, disposing of electronic waste is an immense problem. Every year, 100 million computers, monitors, and TVs become obsolete in the US, and this number is growing. Although a lot of this gear winds up in landfills (the US Environmental Protection Agency calls e-waste the leading contributor of lead to municipal waste), most of it is sent to Asia and Africa, effectively transferring the problem to poorer countries. Read full here
Americans will start just throwing money at global warming
Just watch out where you spend it my fellow American ;-) Read this article carefully... your willing to PAY the same elec. utilities (largest great lakes polluters) to help "stop" global warming... Seriously?
Just in case you didn't notice that US opinion has shifted sharply in recent months, a new survey from MIT shows that global warming jumped from 6th in 2003 to 1st in 2006 among significant environmental challenges cited by Americans (via the watt).
Almost half the respondents put global warming in first or second place. In 2003, the destruction of ecosystems, water pollution, and toxic waste were far higher priorities.
There is also an increased sense that global warming is an established problem, as almost 70 percent of respondents agreed that there's enough evidence to warrant some level of action– up from 50% three years ago.
The other big change is a substantial increase in people's willingness to spend their own money to do something about it. In 2003, people were willing to pay on average $14 more per month on their electricity bill to "solve" global warming. In 2006 they agreed to pay $21 more per month—a 50 percent increase in their willingness to
Americans Drove Less in 2005
"CNN is reporting on a study that shows that not only did Americans buy more fuel efficient vehicles in 2005 (although sadly this trend reversed itself in the later half of 2006) but they also drove slightly less on average, according to the article, 'The drop in driving was small — the average American drove 13,657 miles (21,978.8 km) per year in 2005, down from 13,711 miles in 2004.' This is the first drop since the energy crisis of the late 70's. However, although SUV and mini-van sales have been falling, they still represent over half of the private vehicle sales in the United States." Link (VIA-http://slashdot.org)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)