NYC Council Passes Climate Protection Act

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 08:09:05 GMT

Last week, in an unusual display of unity, the New York City Council unanimously passed the Climate Protection Act. The legislation, which mandates a 30% reduction in citywide greenhouse emissions by the year 2030, puts the force of law behind Mayor Michael Bloomberg's PlaNYC 2030. In addition, the Act requires annual emissions inventories and analyses along with public education and outreach programs. Finally, voluntary programs will be established to encourage private entities in New York City to commit to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. See also :: NYC's First-Ever Greenhouse Gas Inventory and :: A Sea of Yellow to Turn Green.... Read the full story on TreeHugger

The New Yorker on the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 08:16:36 GMT

Photograph by James Nachtwey for The New Yorker. Earlier this month, The New Yorker published an article about the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and its founder, Paul Watson. The article, Neptune's Navy, describes the origins of Sea Shepherd, its mission, and its controversial tactics. Furthermore, it profiles Watson who is regarded as hero by some, and dismissed as a radical vigilante by others. Regardless of whether you agree with Watson's tactics which often ramming his vessels into whaling ships, the article provides an interesting and sobering look into the threats that face some of the earth's most precious marine environments and species.... Read the full story on TreeHugger

EU to Regulate Emissions From Airlines

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 16:45:30 GMT

As airlines and airplane manufacturers continue to concentrate on increasing capacity, the European Union (EU) took an important step in regulating greenhouse gas emissions from the civil aviation sector. Earlier this week, the European Parliament approved a plan that would require EU-registered airlines to apply for emissions permits beginning in 2011. Similar to other polluting industries within the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme, airlines will be required to reduce their emissions or offset excess emissions by purchasing additional credits or investing in international climate protection projects. This announcement is of particular importance as emissions from aviation have doubled since 1991, and were expected to increase by an additional 50% by 2012. Under the new plan, each airline would be allowed to emit 90% of its average emissions for a 2004-2006 reference period. The aviation plan is part of the EU's effort to reduce its total greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by the year 2020. See also ::Boeing's Zero-Emission Plane Set To Take OffSite and ::Virgin Atlantic testing Bio-fuel on Jumbo Jet ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Bloomberg's Traffic Plan Gets State and Federal Support

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 12:13:18 GMT

In April, we wrote about Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg's proposal to bring congestion pricing to New York City. The plan would require drivers to pay an $8-a-day fee to drive below 86th street in Manhattan between 6am and 6pm on weekdays. Although it appears as if the Mayor is in for a legislative fight, the proposal recently received key endorsements from New York Governor, Eliot Spitzer, and the Bush Administration. Mary E. Peters, the US Transportation Secretary, announced that New York City was one of nine finalists for a share of $1.1 billion in federal aid to fight urban traffic. However, the city's share could be in jeopardy if the Mayor's proposal does not win legislative approval by August. The necessary support may be difficult to achieve, as State Assembly and State Senate members from both sides of the aisle have voiced concerns. Despite, concerns of his own, Spitzer said he would work to ensure the passage of the plan. For those who think such a plan might not be necessary, the Transportation Secretary was apparently delayed in meeting with the mayor and governor because of traffic on the FDR Drive. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Pineapples and Photovoltaics

Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:01:24 GMT

In 1922, James Dole, the president of Hawaiian Pineapple Company (later the Dole Food Company), bought the entire island of Lanai. The sixth largest Hawaiian island was subsequently developed into the world's largest pineapple plantation. Lanai has since been known as -Pineapple Island' for its close historical ties to the fruit. However, the island will soon welcome a different type of farm. Yesterday, Castle & Cooke, the land's current owner, announced a deal to build the largest solar energy farm in Hawaii on Lanai. The 1.5-megawatt solar farm will be built on a 10-acre site, and will produce enough energy to supply up to 30% of the island's electric demand. The facility will also push Hawaii closer towards its goal of having 20 percent of the state's energy come from renewable sources by the year 2020. The planned photovoltaic farm will be the fourth-largest in the United States. See also ::Hawaii Moves Towards Energy Independence ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

A Sea of Yellow to Turn Green

Wed, 23 May 2007 07:10:55 GMT

On yesterday's "Today" show, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg announced a five-year plan to -green' New York City's yellow cab fleet. Although the fleet will retain its emblematic yellow color, the ubiquitous Ford Crown Victoria will be replaced by more fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles. Under the proposed plan, the city would triple the number of hybrid cabs from its current count of 375 by October 2008. The number of hybrid vehicles would subsequently increase by 20 percent each year after that. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

-Renewable Energy Chopper' Up for Grabs in Iowa

Mon, 21 May 2007 09:30:49 GMT

In an effort to promote Iowa's role in renewable energy, the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation has launched a campaign called -Join the Ride Iowa' . The campaign will tour the state throughout the summer and will support renewable energy resources such as wind, biomass, and biodiesel. 'Join the Ride Iowa' will focus primarily on educating Iowans about the important role that agriculture plays in renewable energy. Launched last week at the opening of a new E85 pump at the Kum & Go in Grinnell, the campaign will also offer Iowans the opportunity to win a custom-made -Renewable Energy Chopper'. The Iowa Farm Bureau commissioned Orange County Choppers of -American Chopper' fame to build the nation's first motorcycle that will run on E85. Although only one lucky raffle ticket holder will win the yet to be unveiled chopper, others can rest assure that their ticket purchases will not be wasted. Proceeds from the sale of $10 raffle tickets will support the American Lung Association of Iowa's -Clean Air Choice' program. See also ::Man Creates Electric Motorcycle Using Simple Retrofits and ::Electric Motorcycle Breaks Speed Record... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Solar Boat Arrives in NYC

Thu, 10 May 2007 08:23:23 GMT

Earlier this week, the Swiss made solar boat, Sun21, reached New York, the final destination on the first-ever sun powered transatlantic journey. Sun21 sailed 13,000 kilometers from Chipiona in Spain to the island of Martinique and along the East Coast of the United States. The boat produced a reported 2,000 kilowatt-hours of solar energy that powered electric motors with surplus energy stored in batteries. This allowed Sun21 to travel a constant speed of 5 to 6 knots per hour throughout its voyage, which started in October 2006. As one of the crew members stated, this proves on a small scale what can be done globally to address the threat of climate change. See also ::Solar Powered Cat On Trans-Atlantic Crossing and ::Cheers: Sun 21 Crossed The Atlantic!... Read the full story on TreeHugger

New York Moves Closer to Renewable Future

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 07:59:14 GMT

In the wake of Mayor Bloomberg's Earth Day policy speech, New York State has made an important move towards sustainability. According to the New York Energy Research and Development Authority and the New York State Public Service Commission, 21 renewable energy generating facilities have been selected to help the state achieve its renewable portfolio standard (RPS). The selected facilities include 10 existing hydroelectric plants, 9 new wind facilities, and 2 biomass plants. Combined, the selected plants will move New York closer to achieving its RPS, in which 25% of electric generation will come from renewable sources by 2013.... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Is Deforestation the Solution to Climate Change?

Thu, 19 Apr 2007 08:49:35 GMT

Since global warming entered the global lexicon, the scientific community has concluded that deforestation is one the primary causes of climate change. Subsequently, significant efforts to reduce or reverse warming trends have focused on reforestation throughout the world. However, a recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and reported in the Economist, suggests that these efforts may not result in the desired outcome. According to Dr. Govindasamy Bala of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California, planting trees everywhere might actually increase the earth's temperature. Conversely, removing all the world's trees could lead to global cooling.... Read the full story on TreeHugger

NYC's Catskill Water Supply to Remain Unfiltered

Mon, 16 Apr 2007 08:39:35 GMT

It may come as a surprise to readers, that New York City's water supply is unfiltered. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency announced last week that it would extend the city's current exemption from filtration requirements at least until 2017. Currently 90 percent of the one billion gallons used in the city each day comes from a system of reservoirs in the Catskill Mountains, while 10 percent is drawn from reservoirs in Westchester County. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

NYC's First-Ever Greenhouse Gas Inventory

Wed, 11 Apr 2007 08:18:37 GMT

Yesterday, Mayor Bloomberg released the first comprehensive inventory of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in New York City's history. The inventory will serve as the benchmark for reducing the City's GHG emissions by 30% between now and 2030, a target the Mayor established during a speech last December. The inventory release will be followed by a policy speech later this month that will detail specific reduction plans. The analysis found that citywide GHG emissions were approximately 58 million metric tons in 2005, roughly 1% of the nation's totals. According to the inventory, buildings account for 79% of the City's emissions. In addition, citywide emissions were reported to have increased by approximately 8% in the last ten years, and are projected to increase by 25% above 2005 levels by 2030. Although GHG emissions have increased in recent years, an estimated 446,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide have been avoided annually through: energy efficiency projects, alternative fuel vehicles, landfill methane recovery, and the conversion of traffic signals to LEDs.... Read the full story on TreeHugger

New Hampshire Moves Closer to Renewable Energy Standard

Mon, 09 Apr 2007 07:48:30 GMT

Currently, New Hampshire is the only state in the northeastern United States that has not passed some form of renewable portfolio standards legislation. However, that may change soon. Last week, the New Hampshire House voted decisively in favor of a bill that would require electric companies to include a percentage of the electricity they sell from renewable and low-emission sources. The bill will now go before a state Senate committee for review before it is introduced to the Senate floor. New Hampshire governor, John Lynch, had previously established a non-binding goal of getting 25 percent of the state's energy from clean, renewable sources by the year 2025. The governor announced that he would sign this bill into law. See also ::Minnesota Sets Pace for Renewable Energy and ::Renewable Portfolio Standards... So Far... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Supreme Court Delivers Landmark Ruling On Greenhouse Gases

Wed, 04 Apr 2007 07:48:49 GMT

On Monday, the Supreme Court delivered one of the most important environmental decisions in the court's history. The case in question, Massachusetts v. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), challenged the agency's failure to regulate vehicle emissions of carbon dioxide under the Clean Air Act. In a 5-to-4 decision, the court ruled that the EPA has the authority to regulate greenhouse gases (GHGs) in automobile emissions. Although the ruling does not force the EPA to regulate auto emissions, continued inaction would almost certainly result in further legal action. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

-Environmentalism: Biggest Threat to Freedom'

Fri, 30 Mar 2007 08:03:53 GMT

Czech President, Vaclav Klaus, recently offered a warning that environmentalism and measures to curb climate change are a threat to human freedom. When I read these and other similar statements, my initial thought was to write a scathing assessment of his remarks. On second thought, I realized such outlandish ideas might not even warrant a response. But I thought our readers might be entertained by the following quotations. Enjoy. "The biggest threat to freedom, democracy, the market economy and prosperity at the beginning of the 21st century is not communism or its various softer variants. Communism was replaced by the threat of ambitious environmentalism." "While some deserts may get larger and some ocean shores flooded, enormous parts of the earth (could become) fertile areas able to accommodate millions of people." Finally, Klaus called environmentalism a "religion based on political ambition rather than science."... Read the full story on TreeHugger

IBM Commits to Greenhouse Gas Reductions

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 07:48:28 GMT

Last week, IBM announced that it would reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 7% from 2005 levels by the year 2012. The commitment was made as part of the company's participation in the Environmental Protection Agency's -Climate Leaders' program. To date, the -Climate Leaders' program has enlisted more than 100 companies to set similar voluntary reduction targets. IBM's most recent goal follows an earlier pledge in which the company successfully reduced its emissions by 6.2% from 2002 levels in 2005. The technology giant plans to achieve further reductions through improved energy efficiency in its offices and limited use of perfluorocompounds in semiconductor manufacturing. My, how times have changed since the IBM 5120 (pictured above) was introduced. See also ::A Personal Computer for the Planet... Read the full story on TreeHugger

In Hot Water Over Climate, Bush Cuts Funding for Geothermal Power

Fri, 16 Mar 2007 08:43:53 GMT

As concern over climate change continues to mount, the Bush administration has announced plans to eliminate federal support for geothermal power. Citing the belief that geothermal is a mature technology, the Department of Energy has decided not to request funds for additional research in 2008. Instead, the administration has decided to increase spending on nuclear power and biofuels. The decision has angered climate activists and scientists who argue that there is enough hot water underground to meet all U.S. electricity needs. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

El Hijo del Santo Wrestles Enemies of the Sea

Mon, 12 Mar 2007 08:22:38 GMT

Mexican professional wrestler, El Hijo del Santo, recently announced plans to support WiLDCOAST, a U.S.-based environmental organization. The organization's current campaigns include: stopping sea turtle consumption in Mexico, defending protected areas on California's coast, and working to save the gray whales in Baja California. The 7-time WWA World Welterweight Champion has pledged to devote the majority of this year to raising awareness about how human actions are threatening the ocean. Subsequently, El Hijo del Santo will visit coastal communities in northern Mexico and distribute educational comics featuring his character confronting threats to the ocean. Furthermore, the wrestler will travel to Latino communities in California to promote conservation and will head a petition effort in Mexico City demanding that lawmakers create more protected marine zones. Apparently, El Hijo Del Santo's efforts mark a continuing tradition in which Mexican wrestlers participate in numerous public awareness campaigns. Enemies of the sea beware!... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Bank of America Commits to Sustainability

Fri, 09 Mar 2007 07:06:52 GMT

Bank of America has introduced a $20 billion, 10-year initiative that will encourage the development of environmentally sustainable business practices. The bank will push the green agenda through lending, investing, philanthropy, and the creation of new products and services. The company reports that it will provide $18 billion in lending and advice to help commercial clients finance the use and production of sustainable products and services. Furthermore, Bank of America will commit $1.4 billion to achieve LEED certification in all its new offices and banking centers. An additional $50 million will be donated to nonprofit organizations that focus on forest preservation, energy conservation, affordable green housing, and other environmentally conscious activities. Finally, the bank will invest $100 million in internal energy efficiency initiatives. See also ::Bank of America Offering Hybrid Reimbursement and ::Greener Offices in New York... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Bloomberg's Vice: Miami

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 08:15:35 GMT

As part of an ongoing effort to gather information, New York City's Mayor, Michael Bloomberg, will take a sustainability tour of Miami this afternoon. Bloomberg continues to seek ideas as he prepares to unveil his Plan NYC 2030, a blue print for long-term sustainability in New York. The Mayor is scheduled to ride and tour specific sections of Miami's public transportation system. In addition, Bloomberg will visit the campus of the University of Miami Medical School, which has integrated several green building principals. The day's activities will culminate with a meeting between Bloomberg and the Miami Green Commission. Unfortunately, the Mayor was unable to schedule a ride-a-long with Miami's top cops, Sonny and Rico. See also ::Bloomberg To Create NYC 'Office of Sustainability' and ::Seen in New York: Clean Air Hybrid Electric Bus... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Theodore Roosevelt IV to Head Lehman Brothers' 'Global Council on Climate Change'

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 08:06:44 GMT

During the last week, we reported on efforts to address climate change in the electric utility and film industries. On Wednesday, the financial sector entered the fray with an announcement by Lehman Brothers. The investment bank appointed Theodore Roosevelt IV to head a new effort to address the challenges of global warming. The great-grandson of the US president will be chairman of Lehman Brothers' Global Council on Climate Change. Roosevelt enters the position with significant experience in the environmental arena. He is chairman of the Pew Center for Global Climate Change and co-chair of the Alliance for Climate Protection. Lehman Brothers is certainly not the first investment bank to address climate change, but this decision does signify the growing momentum towards climate protection. The only question that remains is: why haven't other firms followed suit?... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Environmental Defense and DuPont Partner to Address Nanotech Risks

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 07:58:14 GMT

Earlier this week, Environmental Defense and DuPont released a draft strategy that will enable firms that manufacture or use nanomaterials to evaluate and manage environmental risks. The six-step strategy is the product of a partnership that began in September 2005 to encourage the responsible development of nanotechnology-based products. The Nano Risk Framework establishes processes for companies to use to evaluate potential risks, determine staff roles, and gather information. Furthermore, it recommends the use of life cycle analysis to address material sourcing, workers' exposure, and disposal. For those who are interested in contributing to the development of this framework, Environmental Defense and DuPont will be accepting comments from the public until March 30 at feedback@nanoriskframework.com. To view the Nano Risk Framework, click here. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Minnesota Sets Pace for Renewable Energy

Fri, 23 Feb 2007 08:12:54 GMT

On Thursday, Minnesota quietly assumed a leadership role in the battle against climate change with the creation of what is arguably the nation's most aggressive renewable energy standard. The legislation, signed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty, requires that 25 percent of the state's electricity come from renewable sources by 2025. Although Maine and New York maintain more stringent renewable portfolio standards, the two states started with significantly more renewable energy capacity than Minnesota. The Land of 10,000 Lakes currently generates 5 percent of its power from renewable sources, while roughly half the electricity produced in the state comes from coal. Subsequently, Minnesota's new law will require the most significant increase in renewable energy generating capacity. Currently, more than 20 states have established similar renewable energy requirements and momentum is building in states such as Colorado and New Hampshire to develop similar initiatives. See also :: Renewable Portfolio Standards... So Far and :: Tell Congress to Support Clean Energy... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Update: Possible Environmental Disaster in Antarctica

Thu, 22 Feb 2007 08:16:01 GMT

Last week, we took the uncharacteristic step of reporting on a potentially grave situation in Antarctica. Much to our relief, the crippled Japanese whaling vessel is undergoing repairs that will hopefully prevent any chemical or oil releases into the otherwise pristine Ross Sea. Although the boat is still disabled and Greenpeace's offers to tow the vessel to safety continue to be rejected, repair crews have succeeded in restarting its main engine. A decision on whether to attempt to move the ship under its own power will be made after safety tests are completed. Meanwhile, there is still lingering concern that the boat could leak some of the estimated 343,000 gallons of oil that are onboard. The possibility of a spill has sparked significant concern, because the Ross Sea is near to the breeding ground for a estimated 250,000 pairs of penguins. To add insult to injury, a spokesman for the Japanese Institute of Cetacean Research has not ruled out the possibility that the vessel could continue its hunt for 945 whales under Japan's so-called ''scientific whaling'' program. See also ::Japanese Whaling Under Fire... Read the full story on TreeHugger

What's In That Ring Pop?

Fri, 16 Feb 2007 08:28:25 GMT

Years of being bombarded by advertisements make even the most trusting of people somewhat skeptical when it comes to consumer products. However, hardened shoppers will often take a leap of faith when purchasing food and other consumer goods. For example, when a person sees a name like "Yoplait Go-Gurt Strawberry Splash" or "Fruity Cheerios" it is not unreasonable for him or her to assume that these products contain at least a trace amount of fruit. According to a report released by the Prevention Institute, these products are just two examples of food items that contain no fruit. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

US Leads in New Wind Energy Developments

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 08:17:25 GMT

According to the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), 2006 was another banner year for new wind energy developments. In a recent report, the GWEC announced that the total amount of installed wind energy capacity increased from 59,901 megawatts (MW) in 2005 to 74,223 MW in 2006. This data includes wind energy developments in more than 70 countries around the world. In general, 2006 delivered a 32% growth in the wind energy market compared to 41% in 2005. The GWEC estimates the economic value of this additional capacity to be $23 billion. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

250-MW Solar Power Plant Planned for Southwest

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 08:12:07 GMT

A coalition of seven utilities in the Southwest is currently exploring the possibility of constructing a 250-megawatt solar power plant in Arizona or Nevada. If built, the plant could produce enough energy to power 160,000 to 200,000 homes. The proposed facility would likely utilize solar trough technology rather than more expensive photovoltaics. The group of utilities which includes: Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, and Tuscon Electric Power is working to develop a request for proposals and hopes to seek approval for the project by early next year. In an effort to spur investments in renewable energy projects of this scope, the Arizona Corporation Commission passed a law that requires Arizona utilities to obtain 15 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by the year 2025. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Chirac Renews Call for Carbon Tax on US

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 09:29:46 GMT

In November, TreeHugger covered France's proposed plan to impose a carbon tax on non-Kyoto countries. Last week, President Jacques Chirac demanded that the United States sign both the Kyoto Protocol and a future agreement that will take effect once Kyoto expires in 2012. His demand was paired with a renewed threat that Europe would impose a carbon tax on imports from nations that have not signed the international accord. Although the legality of the proposed tax remains in question, it could create significant pressure for the United States, as the European Union is the largest export market for American goods. Mr. Chirac said: "a carbon tax is inevitable, if it is European, and I believe it will be European, then it will all the same have a certain influence because it means that all the countries that do not accept the minimum obligations will be obliged to pay." Despite increasing international pressure, it remains unlikely that the current administration will ratify the Kyoto protocol. ... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Rhode Island to Join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 09:30:48 GMT

In his recent state of the state address, Rhode Island Gov. Donald Carcieri announced that his state would be the latest to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). This news comes a mere two weeks after Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick (D) revealed a similar plan for the Commonwealth. The two states join: New York, Maine, Vermont, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Delaware, and New Jersey in the regional effort to address climate change. The RGGI agreement will cap carbon dioxide emissions from power plants from January 1, 2009 through the beginning of 2015. The states will subsequently be required to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions by 10 percent by 2019. Under the accord, each state is given discretion in the allocation of emissions allowances. However, RGGI mandates that 25 percent of each state's allowances be reserved for a consumer benefit or strategic energy purpose. See also ::Wal-Mart, GE, and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)... Read the full story on TreeHugger

California Bans Dirty Power Purchasing

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 07:54:16 GMT

In a rule that is expected to go into effect today, the California Public Utilities Commission has decided to ban power companies from buying electricity from high-polluting sources. More specifically, the new standard would prohibit utilities and other energy providers from entering into long-term contracts with generating facilities that emit more carbon dioxide than a modern natural gas plant. Although there is little coal-fired generation within California, approximately 20% of the state's electricity is derived from coal plants in neighboring states. Subsequently, this rule could have a significant impact on the energy market in the Western United States. The Public Utilities Commission, which voted 4-0 in favor of the new regulation, hopes that this will encourage investment in renewable energy. See also ::UCS: California Enacts Nation's Toughest Global Warming Bill and ::California Setting Another Important Precedent for Renewable Energy... Read the full story on TreeHugger

Recent Posts by TreeHugger's Eric Kane, New York, NY