The U.S. Geological Survey issued a report on April 3, 2009 finding that glacial ice in Antarctic is melting more rapidly than originally predicted. Noting that Antarctica contains the largest reservoir of glacial ice on the planet, the report points to climate change as the culprit. In a statement released…
The Blue Green Alliance, an organization representing labor unions and environmental groups, has issued a policy statement urging adoption of comprehensive cap and trade legislation during 2009. In a press release announcing its position the Alliance, representing such diverse interests as the United Steel Workers and the Sierra Club, stated:…
The Governor of New Hampshire has issued a Climate Action Plan. The 82 page plan seeks to implement a program that will result in a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 90 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. The recommendations contained in the plan include: “1. Maximize energy efficiency in…
A Utah state senator has introduced a bill which would require undertaking an economic impact review before adoption of any legislation or executive order related to climate change. The economic analysis would include: ” (a) economic impacts, if any, on existing Utah industry, business, and consumers; and (b) impact on…
The mayors of San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose California signed on to the Bay Area Climate Change Collaborative last week. The Collaborative sets specific goals for the member communities. Included among the goals are reducing reliance on fossil fuels and creating “green” jobs. In addition, the intent is to…
New York’s Appellate Division (Fourth Department) issued a decision in early February, 2009 upholding a denial by the Town of Ellicottville of site plan and special permit approval to construct a cogeneration plant using wood chips as fuel, as part of a larger development proposal. In Matter of Laidlaw Energy…
The Audubon Society has issued a report, based upon 40 years of study in the United States, entitled “Birds and Climate Change Ecological Disruption in Motion.” The report concludes that global warming is having a significant impact on the migratory pattern of birds. It notes: “planned, science-based habitat conservation efforts…
In what may signal another break with Bush Administration policy, EPA Administrator Jackson issued a letter in response to a petition from the Sierra Club indicating the EPA would review a Bush Administration memo interpreting the scope of the Clean Air Act. While refusing to stay the Bush era memorandum,…
A New York City panel created by Mayor Bloomberg issued a report predicting significant increases in temperature and sea level in and around New York City over the next 70 years. The report predicts sea level rise of up to two feet and mean annual temperature increases of up to…
President Obama announced today that he was directing the EPA to reconsider the request by California to institute tougher standards for vehicle carbon dioxide emissions. It is expected that several other states may make similar requests if California, which was originally denied, is now granted approval. The move to review…