3/1/01
9:41:46 PM
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE (ENS)
"We Cover the Earth For You"
WHTIMAN CLEARS DIESEL TRUCK RULE
By Cat Lazaroff
WASHINGTON, DC, March 1, 2001 (ENS) - In the first sign that the new Bush administration will not seek to overturn several major environmental rules passed by the Clinton administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Wednesday it will move forward on schedule with its rule to make heavy duty trucks and buses run cleaner.
For full text and graphics, visit: http://ens-news.com/ens/mar2001/2001L-03-01-06.html
TOURISM IS KILLING THE MEDITERRANEAN, TRAVEL FAIR TOLD
BERLIN, Germany, March 1, 2001 (ENS) - The Mediterranean's soaring popularity among visitors could be its downfall unless a new form of tourism is introduced, the World Wide Fund for Nature said today.
For full text and graphics visit: http://ens-news.com/ens/mar2001/2001L-03-01-10.html
GREENPEACE PRESENTS IMAGE PROBLEM FOR INTERFOR
By Neville Judd
VANCOUVER, Canada, March 1, 2001 (ENS) - New photos of logging on British Columbia's coast prove that International Forest Products is misleading the public, said Greenpeace, Wednesday.
For full text and graphics visit: http://ens-news.com/ens/mar2001/2001L-03-01-11.html
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE AMERISCAN: MARCH 1, 2001
Corps' Mississippi Study Questioned Yet Again
Bipartisan Bills Would Protect Arctic Refuge as Wilderness
Conservation Groups Defend Alaska's National Forests
StarLink Corn Turns Up in Corn Seed
Pacific Heat Vent Could Diminish Greenhouse Warming
Plan Addresses Longline Fisheries' Impact on Seabirds
Illegal Oysters Send Seafood Sellers to Jail
Volunteers Needed to Guard Spawning Sturgeon
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens-news.com/ens/mar2001/2001L-03-01-09.html
SEND NEWS STORY TIPS TO news@ens-news.com
TO BUSINESS AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Riparian Habitat and Floodplains Conference Set
SACRAMENTO, CA, Mar. 1 -/E-Wire/-- The Riparian Habitat and Floodplains Conference, sponsored by the California Department of Water Resources and 16 other public and private agencies and organizations, is scheduled March 12 through 15 at Sacramento's Radisson Hotel.
/CONTACT: DWR PIO, Don Strickland, 916/657-4469 or Environmental Compliance, Analysis & Planning Branch, Earle Cummings, 916/445-7974/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Mar01/01Mar0103.html
TO BUSINESS AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Environ.com Named Environmental Compliance Expert for Leading Government Procurement Web Site Fedmarket.com
TEMPE, Ariz. and KETCHUM, Idaho, Mar. 1 -/E-Wire/-- Fedmarket.com, a leading government contracting portal, appointed Environmental Support Solutions (Environ.com) as its environmental compliance expert.
/CONTACT: Robin Suzelis of Environ.com, 480-346-5524, robin_suzelis@environ.com; or Eric Aaserud of Fedmarket.com, 208-726-5553 ext. 12, aaserud@wrtech.com/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Mar01/01Mar0102.html
-- NEWS ADVISORY -- TO BUSINESS, ENVIRONMENTAL AND MEDICAL EDITORS:
South Carolina's Research Universities Host Conference on the Links Between the Environment and Health
COLUMBIA, S.C., Mar. 1 -/E-Wire/-- A two day conference entitled "Dispelling the Fear & Discovering the Truth: Linking the Environment & Health." Chemicals are contaminating our ground water, asbestos is invading our lungs, and lead poisons our children while they play. Environmental health hazards have gone from hidden files to widespread public concerns.
/CONTACT: Trish Jerman of Sustainable University Initiative, 803-777-7760, jerman@sc.edu, or Katy Ruth of Newman, Saylor & Gregory, 803-254-8158, or e-mail, kruth@nsandg.com for Sustainable University Initiative/
http://www.sc.edu/sustainableu/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Mar01/01Mar0101.html
SEND YOUR PRESS RELEASE ON E-WIRE -- 1-888-764-NEWS
3/1/01
9:38:38 PM
AdBusters
Students locked up after refusing to watch Channel One
When Ohio teenagers DJ and Carlotta Maurer walked out of their classrooms in October to protest the compulsory viewing of Channel One, a television program with commercials which is shown in schools across America, school officials realized they had a couple of dangerous radicals on their hands. Principal Patrick Calvin invoked the truancy provision of the school's code of student conduct, and 13-year-old DJ and 14-year-old Carlotta were whisked away to the Wood County Juvenile Detention Center, where they had all day to consider their crime.
Since then, Commercial Alert and Obligation, Inc., two national anti-media groups, have taken up the Maurers' cause. The groups wrote to Ohio Governor Bob Taft, urging him to remove Channel One from all public schools.
"When the government sends children to a juvenile detention center because they don't want to watch advertising, that is both Orwellian and more than a little sick," reads the letter. "The public schools ought to be a sanctuary from the noxious aspects of commercial culture."
The governor has not responded to the letter. But the school is in negotiation with the Maurers, who have religious objections to television. It seems a day in the lockup didn't cool their heels enough to keep them from kicking.
http://adbusters.org/magazine/34/jail.html
3/1/01
5:11:08 PM
Environmental news from GRIST MAGAZINE
<http://www.gristmagazine.com>
1. THE NOBLE CITIZEN Donella Meadows, one of America's most accomplished and fiercely principled environmentalists, died last week at age 59. Author since 1985 of the weekly column "The Global Citizen," syndicated in Grist and newspapers across the country, Meadows first rose to prominence in 1972 as principal author of "The Limits to Growth," a seminal study on the ecological strain of soaring human population growth. Meadows taught environmental studies at Dartmouth College from 1972 until her death and was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship in 1994. Achievements and honors notwithstanding, friend and former colleague Robert Braile writes in Grist, "More than anything, I will remember Meadows for living what she believed." Read more in Grist Magazine.
read it only in Grist Magazine: A personal appreciation of Grist contributor Donella Meadows -- by Robert Braile <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/imho/imho030101.stm>
2. PHENOMENAL In one of the Bush administration's first official statements on global warming, U.S. EPA Administrator Christie Todd Whitman said this week that the administration may push to place limits on carbon dioxide emissions from power plants. "There is no question," she said, "that global warming is a real phenomenon, that it is occurring." She said the administration might support legislation that would regulate CO2 for the first time as part of a broader plan to regulate other pollutants from the burning of fossil fuels. President Bush is on the record as opposing the Kyoto treaty on climate change.
straight to the source: Washington Post, Eric Pianin, 28 Feb 2001
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A64344-2001Feb27.html
3. SHOCK DIESEL The Bush administration announced yesterday that it would let stand regulations put forward by former President Clinton to cut diesel exhaust from big trucks and buses by 95 percent. The new rules will require oil refiners to reduce the sulfur content of highway diesel fuel by 97 percent and force manufacturers to install pollution control devices in diesel engines. Health advocates and environmentalists were breathing easier after the announcement. But the trucking industry has continued to complain about the costs of complying with the rules, and the refining industry has threatened to sue the U.S. EPA over them.
straight to the source: Los Angeles Times, Gary Polakovic, 01 Mar 2001
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/environ/20010301/t000018257.html
straight to the source: New York Times, Christopher Marquis, 01 Mar 2001 <http://www.nytimes.com/2001/03/01/politics/01DIES.html>
4. PEW, THOSE OCEANS SMELL Pollution from inland sources of fertilizer and manure is threatening bays and estuaries in the U.S., according to a report released this week by the Pew Oceans Commission. The study stated that nitrogen and ammonia from these sources are producing toxic algae blooms, depleting oxygen levels, and destroying sea grasses and coral reefs. Leon Panetta, the commission's chair and a chief of staff under former President Clinton, warned that "dead zones" like the one in the Gulf of Mexico are likely to proliferate as heavy coastal development continues. In other manure news, environmental groups filed a racketeering lawsuit yesterday accusing the nation's biggest hog processor, Smithfield Foods, of deliberately fouling water, air, and soil.
straight to the source: MSNBC.com, 27 Feb 2001 <http://www.msnbc.com/news/536602.asp>
straight to the source: Los Angeles Times, Stephanie Simon, 01 Mar 2001
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/environ/20010228/tCB00a4984.html
5. ON THE BOULEVARD OF BROKEN DREAMS Contestants audition for "Global Warming Survivor," and Zed develops a keen eye for talent. Join Zed, last of his species, for a front-row seat in "Cattle Cull."
catch it only in Grist Magazine: The latest in the comic adventures of Zed, last of his species <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/zed/zed022301.stm>
Anti-environmentalism as a way of life -- Dubya's pro-industry policies aren't only about the money -- by Jon Margolis in our opinions section <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/imho/imho022101.stm>
Don't drink the water -- a day in the life of Sunita Dubey, Toxics Link India <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/week/dubey022701.stm>
Sin County Almanac -- sex sells, but can it save the environment? by Erik Ness <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/limb/limb093099.stm>
3/1/01
5:05:41 PM
Public Citizen
FDA Should Investigate Sloppy Manufacturing Practices at Drug Maker Schering-Plough, Public Citizen Says
Confidential Audit, FDA Inspection Uncover Problems at Kenilworth, N.J., Plant
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Public Citizen is urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate quality control problems at a New Jersey plant owned by pharmaceutical giant Schering-Plough.
In a letter sent today to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson, Public Citizen urges the FDA to look into manufacturing practices associated with asthma inhalers and other drugs. During the past 15 months, the drug manufacturer has been forced to recall 59 million asthma inhalers because many units lacked the active ingredient. A copy of the letter is available at
http://www.citizen.org/hrg/publications/1559.htm.
Documents obtained by Public Citizen show that external auditors last year found significant problems at Schering-Plough's Kenilworth, N.J., plant, and that more recently, FDA inspectors who visited the plant found that similar manufacturing problems still existed.
Auditors of AAC Consulting Group of Rockville, Md., visited Schering-Plough's Kenilworth plant between Feb. 28, 2000, and April 14, 2000. They were extremely critical of the general attitude of managers, who told them about "an imbalance between quality and production, leaning considerably toward production."
The problems with the inhalers indicate "insufficient technical expertise and managerial oversight," the auditors wrote.
Meanwhile, in a recent 31-day FDA inspection of the same facility, which was completed on Jan. 19, inspectors found similar quality control problems and concluded that "[t]he process validation for many products fails to support claims that manufacturing processes were capable of consistently producing products with the same quality, purity, and safety."
The problems found by the FDA inspection are so serious that some production lines have been temporarily halted and the company will not be allowed by the FDA to gain approval of or start shipping Clarinex, its new allergy drug, as planned. FDA investigators found "no assurance that the manufacturing process, parameters, equipment or protocols . . . conducted at multiple sites for the production of Clarinex . . . are equivalent or capable of producing product of the same quality."
In the letter, Public Citizen asks the FDA to consider whether criminal charges are warranted because of the possibility that the company was aware of the quality control problems when it shipped some of the defective inhalers. The FDA also should investigate the drug manufacturer for continuing to ship other prescription drug products while aware of the manufacturing problems, Public Citizen wrote.
"The practices uncovered are dangerously sloppy and threaten the health of consumers," said Dr. Sidney M. Wolfe, director of Public Citizen's Health Research Group. "The auditors essentially found that the practices at the plant are so poor that there's no guarantee that drugs have the right amount of active ingredients, or that they are manufactured consistently enough to ensure that they contain what they purport to contain. This is no way to run a drug company."
3/1/01
4:23:32 PM
Fisheries' Survival Depends on Pirate Crackdown
ROME, Italy, February 23, 2001 (ENS) - Attempts to stop pirate fishing are doomed unless this week's negotiations in Italy can improve on a draft international plan, said environmental group Greenpeace, Thursday.
The Rome based UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is hosting negotiations on the draft International Plan of Action (IPOA).
Formally known as the Second FAO Technical Consultation on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing, the meeting has drawn experts to help develop a plan to deter and eliminate illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing - better known as pirate fishing.
The FAO says pirate fishing is "widely recognized as a major threat to the sustainability of the world's fisheries."
Pirate fishing vessels are blamed for the destruction of marine ecosystems worldwide. Their unregulated nets and lines do not discriminate between countless tons of fish and hundreds of thousands of sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and endangered seabirds.
Central to the burgeoning pirate fish trade are so called flags of convenience countries. Countries such as Belize, Cambodia, Equatorial Guinea, Honduras, Panama and St. Vincent and the Grenadines allow fishing boats to operate under their flags without controlling the vessel's activities.
Unscrupulous owners use flags of convenience to avoid fisheries conservation and management regulations, as well as safety and labor standards.
Nearly three quarters of the world's major fisheries are fully exploited, overexploited, or depleted, according to the FAO.
There are 345 fishing vessels flying flags of convenience in the Atlantic alone, according to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic tunas (ICCAT). Many of these vessels are owned by companies based in European Union member states, primarily Spain.
Greenpeace estimates that there are some 1,300 industrial scale fishing vessels flying flags of convenience worldwide.
A Greenpeace report published this week explains how vessels up to 100 meters long sail for months on end under flags of convenience, casting nets across the ocean floor up to two kilometers in circumference.
Such methods drag up and drown thousands of species besides the intended catch. "Some 27 million tonnes of unwanted fish bycatch is caught, killed and dumped back into the sea each year, because of unselective fishing practices and gear," said the report, "Pirate Fishing Plundering the Oceans."
Similarly, the bycatch of pirate longline fisheries in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica has claimed some 330,000 seabirds over the last four years, including endangered species of albatross. The birds are attracted to baits used in longline fishing for the lucrative Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides).
The FAO estimates that 60 to 70 percent of the world's major fisheries are fully exploited, overexploited, or depleted.
Greenpeace is concerned that the draft IPOA falls short of closing ports to flag of convenience fishing and support vessels, and closing markets to flag of convenience caught fish.
The group wants companies prevented from owning or operating flag of convenience fishing and support vessels.
Similar measures were announced last November by ICCAT. Established in 1969, ICCAT is responsible for the conservation of tunas and tuna like species in the Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas.
Under a pirate fishing ban, ICCAT's 28 members, including the United States, Japan, China and the European Union's 15 member states, must close their markets to bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) caught by vessels registered to the five flag of convenience countries.
The FAO is attempting to build upon ICCAT's initiative by developing similar measures worldwide. But the devil is in the details.
Brazil does not accept that countries must only allow charter arrangements with fishing vessels and companies that operate in compliance with international law. Mexico says restricting market access or denying port access to flag of convenience vessels infringes upon free trade.
The European Union is reluctant to support any plan that calls on governments to penalize companies based in their country which own flag of convenience vessels.
Greenpeace calls Brazil, Mexico and the European Union "pirate protectors."
"In blocking tough regulations, these countries are protecting pirate fishers at a time when fishery experts tell us that about three quarters of the world's fisheries are already fully exploited, overexploited or depleted," said Desley Mather of Greenpeace.
"The number of pirate fishing vessels is growing. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to recognize that unless this loophole in international law is closed, more and more fishing companies will buy these flags to dodge fishing rules at the expense of the marine environment."
"If governments will not tackle these lawless fleets, how can they expect to manage what is left?"
When the FAO meeting wraps up today, the IPOA will be submitted to the 24th session of FAO's Committee on Fisheries, which will meet next week. The Committee is the primary fisheries policy making forum within FAO.
3/1/01
4:22:16 PM
Planet Ark World Environment News
Doing environmental research? Search our news archives at: http://www.planetark.org/searchhome.cfm
UPDATE - Bush seeks to fully fund US food safety programs - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9947
Environmentalists seek to save new Calif. nat' monument - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9948
UPDATE - Bush warns Congress of serious US energy crisis - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9949
Monsanto expects more biotech acreage this year - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9950
US lawmakers seek to stop drilling in Arctic refuge - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9951
Shell, Siemens agree solar power joint venture - NETHERLANDS http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9943
ANALYSIS - Japan nuke industry frets in face of deregulation - JAPAN http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9944
Traders fret Japan's StarLink review may drag on - JAPAN http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9946
Italy needs new power plants for competitive market - ITALY http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9953
Canadian watchdog calls for more fiscal discipline - CANADA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9952
Australian government may mull ethanol industry - AUSTRALIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9945
3/1/01
4:20:00 PM
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE (ENS)
"We Cover the Earth For You"
BUSH BUDGET CUTS TAXES, ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS
WASHINGTON, DC, February 28, 2001 (ENS) - Americans would enjoy a $1.6 trillion tax cut under President George W. Bush's first federal budget, detailed in a speech to Congress last night. But in the aftermath of the speech, environmental groups warned that Bush would pay for the tax breaks by leaving crucial environmental departments and programs underfunded, threatening the future of the nation's remaining wild places.
For full text and graphics, visit: http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-28-06.html
UNEP CHIEF CRITICIZES KENYA'S LOGGING PLANS
NAIROBI, Kenya, February 28, 2001 (ENS) - Kenya's plans to clear forests at the foot of Mount Kenya in order to resettle landless people have been criticized by Klaus Toepfer, executive director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).
For full text and graphics visit: http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-28-10.html
EARTHQUAKE ROCKS PACIFIC NORTHWEST
SEATTLE, Washington, February 28, 2001 (ENS) - An earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale hit the Pacific Northwest this morning, just hours after President George W. Bush proposed a budget that would eliminate a federal program designed to help communities prepare for natural disasters.
For full text and graphics visit: http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-28-11.html
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE AMERISCAN: FEBRUARY 28, 2001
Martian Meteorite Contains New Hints of Life
GM Sues California Over ZEV Mandate
Arsenic: A New Type of Endocrine Disrupter?
Fungicide Pollution Costs DuPont Millions
Africa's Lake Chad Shrunken by Irrigation, Climate Change
Five More Companies Pledge Action Against Climate Change
Arctic Refuge Defenders Clog White House Email System
Students Launch Tree Free Campus Campaign
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-28-09.html
SEND NEWS STORY TIPS TO news@ens-news.com
TO NATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
American Chemistry Council Statement On Supreme Court Decision on Clean Air Law
ARLINGTON, VA, Feb. 28 -/E-Wire/-- The following statement was issued February 28, 2001, by David Zoll, vice president and general counsel of the American Chemistry Council, on the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on EPA's revised 1997 national ambient air quality standards for ground level ozone and particulate matter.
/CONTACT: Kate McGloon at 703-741-5812 or kate_mcgloon@americanchemistry.com/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Feb01/28Feb0106.html
TO BUSINESS, ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Shell and Siemens Join Forces to Play in the Solar Champions League
MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 28 -/E-Wire/-- Siemens Solar GmbH and Shell Renewables Limited (Shell) announced today that they have reached agreement to form a joint venture of their solar energy businesses. Shell and Siemens regard this co-operation as key for growth, necessary to execute their ambitious targets for solar-energy. Subject to relevant regulatory approvals and consultations, the joint venture, Siemens and Shell Solar GmbH, will begin operation in April 2001.
/CONTACT: Tina Nickerson, 805-388-6519, or tina.nickerson@solar.siemens.com; or Guy Pierce, 732-906-3805, or Guy.pierce@sc.siemens.com, both of Siemens Solar GmbH/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Feb01/28Feb0105.html
TO TECHNOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT EDITORS:
Raytek Launches Intrinsically Safe Noncontact ``Point and Shoot`` Thermometer Professional Model ST80-IS Provides Safety in Hazardous Locations
SANTA CRUZ, CA, Feb. 28 -/E-Wire/-- Raytek® Corporation, a worldwide leader in portable noncontact thermometry, is now shipping its high-performance ST(TM)80 Intrinsically Safe (ST80-IS) ProPlus thermometer with key features added to safely allow its use in dangerous, potentially explosive, or flammable environments.
/CONTACT: Raytek, Kate McGuire, 831/458-1175 extension 353/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Feb01/28Feb0104.html
TO ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Newly Discovered Primate in Grave Danger
NAPLES, FL, Feb. 28 -/E-Wire/-- The discovery of a new lemur species by Duke University Primate Center was announced at Caribbean Gardens: The ZOO in Naples, Florida. Also announced was evidence uncovered by BRZ International Limited regarding organized crime's involvement in international wildlife smuggling. "Lemurs are the most endangered group of primates on planet earth," stated Tim Tetzlaff, director of education for the 52-acre Caribbean Gardens
/CONTACT: Tim Tetzlaff, Director of Education, Caribbean Gardens: The Zoo in Naples, 614.478.3756, tim@caribbeangardens.com/
http://www.caribbeangardens.com/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Feb01/28Feb0103.html
TO ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Audubon of Florida Invites Birders to Participate in a Statewide Bird-a-thon Saturday, March 24th & 31st 2001
MIAMI, FL, Feb. 28 -/E-Wire/-- Mark your calendars for fun in the great outdoors during Audubon of Florida's Birdathon 2001, Saturdays, March 24th & 31st. Not only will you be participating in guided tours of natural areas across the state, but you will also be assisting in protecting Florida's natural treasures.
/CONTACT: Irela M. Bagué or Erin Petra at (305) 371-6399/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Feb01/28Feb0102.html
TO BUSINESS AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Allstate Life Insurance Company Becomes Service Provider to Program Financing Environmental Cleanups
NORTHBROOK, IL, Feb. 28 -/E-Wire/-- Allstate Life Insurance Company, a member of Allstate Financial Group, has become the service provider to the Clean Environment Trust, a non-profit organization created to facilitate cleanup of hazardous waste sites.
/CONTACT: Justin Schmitt of Allstate Life Insurance Company, 847-402-5600/
/Company News On-Call:
http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/109395.html
or fax, 800-758-5804, ext. 109395/
http://ens-news.com/e-wire/Feb01/28Feb0101.html
SEND YOUR PRESS RELEASE ON E-WIRE -- 1-888-764-NEWS
3/1/01
3:18:55 PM
Public Citizen
Murkowski Energy Bill Increases Corporate Dependence on Taxpayer Subsidies
Incentives Inadequate to Stem Demand, Reduce Reliance on Foreign Oil
WASHINGTON, DC - An energy plan unveiled this week by Sen. Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska) would do little or nothing to address America's energy problems, despite the fact that it calls for spending billions in taxpayer dollars on corporate subsidies, according to a Public Citizen analysis of the bill.
Many of the billion-dollar subsidies included in Murkowski's bill (S. 388 and S. 389) would encourage the use of dangerous nuclear facilities and inefficient oil wells. Missing are increased fuel efficiency standards and other conservation strategies - a glaring omission considering that two-thirds of America's oil consumption is used in transportation. The bill calls for opening up the sensitive Alaska National Wildlife Refuge to drilling, even though a 6 percent increase in auto fuel efficiency standards would, within three years, equal the total amount of recoverable oil estimated to be in the refuge.
The bill lavishes more than $1 billion on the nuclear industry, including $750 million in "production incentives," which would encourage nuclear reactors to cut corners on safety to increase production, Public Citizen believes. In addition, $20 million a year would be handed out to nuclear facilities for making investments to improve their efficiency by a paltry 1 percent.
The bill also directs Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham to seek ways to subsidize the high cost of nuclear power by any means necessary, including bestowing federal loan guarantees, federal price guarantees and special tax considerations, and extending taxpayer-funded insurance of the industry in case of Chernobyl-types of accidents, and by direct federal government investment. In one example of explicit promotion of government-subsidized nuclear energy, the bill adds $25 million to the Department of Energy's budget to map out the design and development of new nuclear energy facilities.
"This measure is a lavish gift to energy corporations, once again at the expense of taxpayers and consumers," said Public Citizen President Joan Claybrook. "We need to address our problems by taking serious conservation measures, not by offering billions of dollars to industry."
Increased dependence on nuclear power will create more stockpiles of high-level radioactive waste - a problem the bill does not adequately address. For example, the legislation offers tax credits to utilities that store nuclear waste and would commit public dollars to research dangerous and discredited technologies for "recycling" nuclear waste.
The oil, gas, and electric power generating industries, however, receive the lion's share of the estimated $23 billion of taxpayer handouts. Power generators - whose profits were one the highest of any industry group last year, with shareholder returns approaching 60 percent - would receive more than $1.1 billion to use more coal to produce electricity.
The bill also provides incentives for oil and gas companies to drill on federal land. In addition to opening up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling, cash royalty payments for drilling on public land would no longer be required, and offshore, deep-water rigs wouldn't have to pay royalties if the price of oil falls below a certain level. An additional $300 million would be provided to oil companies for extracting oil difficult to reach.
When the numerous accounting and tax credits are taken into account, taxpayers would be subsidizing these oil and gas companies to the tune of more than $10 billion.
The provisions for conservation incentives and renewable energy investments pale in comparison to the subsidies lavished on nuclear and fossil fuels.
"Handing taxpayer money over to energy companies won't do anything to address America's dependence on foreign oil," said Wenonah Hauter, director of Public Citizen's Critical Mass Energy and Environment Program. "Even if encouraging more drilling on public land produces a million more barrels of oil a day, it will represent little more than 1 percent of world oil production and have no impact on the OPEC cartel. A more sensible approach would be genuine investment in reducing demand through energy conservation and increased investment in renewable technologies, not renewing handouts to oil companies."
3/1/01
3:08:13 PM
The Simultaneous Policy, a new international campaign to counter the forces of corporate globalisation and international competition, has been launched in London. Based on the premise that all nations are subject to global competitive forces unleashed by the ability of capital and transnational corporations to cross national borders, no nation nor group of nations can control global capital nor can they implement vital economic, social or environmental policies that might incur market or corporate displeasure. To break the vicious circle of global competition, both between nations and between corporations, all nations need to act simultaneously by implementing the Simultaneous Policy (SP); a range of measures to re-regulate global markets and corporations in order to restore genuine democracy, environmental protection and peace around the world. Endorsed by Noam Chomsky, Helena Norberg-Hodge, Ed Mayo and many other leading ecologists, counter-economists, churchmen and journalists, SP recognises that party politics has become little more than a sham in which whatever party we elect, the policies delivered inevitably conform to market and corporate demands and to the dictatorship of competition. It calls upon peoples all over the world to come together to take policy out of the hands of politicians and, by force of their numbers and their votes, to compel political parties around the world to adopt SP. By transcending party-political differences and by offering a means that allows politicians and governments to adopt it without risking their respective ‘national interests’, SP claims to provide the long-awaited, coherent and practical solution to corporate globalisation and other world problems.
Based on a new book, "The Simultaneous Policy – An Insider’s Guide to Saving Humanity and the Planet" by John Bunzl, the International Simultaneous Policy Organisation (ISPO) has been established to campaign for the adoption of SP. Acclaimed as "the first writer on the ‘sustainable society’ to advance beyond rhetoric and grapple with the problem of how such a society might be achieved", the book crucially offers the blueprint for a secure and responsible transition from the existing paradigm of destructive, international economic competition to the new paradigm of global cooperation in which global economic, environmental and social problems can be solved.
info@simpol.org
3/1/01
3:00:32 PM
Planet Ark World Environment News
Doing environmental research? Search our news archives at: http://www.planetark.org/searchhome.cfm
UPDATE - US high court upholds EPA clean air rule method - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9934
FEATURE - Arctic Refuge dispute extends to oil estimates - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9937
Calif. water supply seen ample except for agriculture - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9941
Nepal plans garbage levy for all its peaks - NEPAL http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9936
UN protests at loss of Kenyan forests - KENYA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9935
Another Indian tiger killed, alarming officials - INDIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9939
Giant 'royal' turtles discovered in Cambodia - CAMBODIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9938
VAW eyes boosting aluminium capacity in Australia - AUSTRALIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9940
GM canola has an edge on 'purity premiums' - ABARE - AUSTRALIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9942
3/1/01
2:58:13 PM
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE (ENS)
"We Cover the Earth For You"
SUPREME COURT CLEARS EPA TO REGULATE CLEANER AIR
By Cat Lazaroff
WASHINGTON, DC, February 27, 2001 (ENS) - In a major defeat for polluting industries, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously today that the federal government need not consider the financial costs of meeting clean air standards when creating new regulations. The court rejected industry arguments that the health benefits of cleaner air must be balanced against the costs of compliance.
For full text and graphics, visit: http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-27-07.html
UK PROVIDES RAY OF HOPE FOR BASKING SHARK
LONDON, United Kingdom, February 27, 2001 (ENS) - The UK wants the world's second largest marine fish, the basking shark, protected from international trade. Despite protection in UK waters, numbers of the basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) are falling rapidly around the British Isles and elsewhere.
For full text and graphics visit: http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-27-10.html
ENERGY BILL WOULD OPEN ARCTIC REFUGE TO DRILLING
WASHINGTON, DC, February 27, 2001 (ENS) - Senators Frank Murkowski and John Breaux introduced new energy legislation Monday that would open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling and place increased emphasis on developing other domestic energy sources. Environmental groups lambasted the bill, warning it would threaten sensitive lands around the nation.
For full text and graphics visit: http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-27-06.html
SAND MUDDIES LEGAL WATERS IN GERMAN WETLAND FIGHT
By Neville Judd
HAMBURG, Germany, February 27, 2001 (ENS) - Environmentalists and orchard growers have lost an important court decision in the battle to prevent Airbus Industrie from filling in part of Mühlenberger Loch, the largest freshwater tidal ecosystem in Europe.
For full text and graphics, visit: http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-27-11.html
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE AMERISCAN: FEBRUARY 27, 2001
National Plan Aims to Protect Sharks
Court Agrees: Glacier Bay Traffic Requires Study
Grazing Fees Held at Minimum Rate
Salmon Lose: Utility Needs Scarce Water
Bixby Ocean Ranch Nears Permanent Protection
Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Not Considered Threatened
Groups Call Daimler's Unimog a "DaimlerSaurus"
Research Helps Reduce Pollution, Urban Sprawl
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-27-09.html
SEND NEWS STORY TIPS TO news@ens-news.com
E-Wire Announces Launch of New Web Site!
You can now submit your environment-related press releases online at E-Wire's new site located at: http://www.ewire-news.com.
TO HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT EDITORS:
Ives Health Online Generates Revenue and Increases Capacity Company Now Offering Complete Line Of `All-Natural' Remedies
CLAREMORE, OK, Feb. 27 -/E-Wire/-- Ives Health Company (OTCBB: IVEH - news) announced today that the Company has completed Stage Two of their E-Commerce plans. The new `Naturalpath' information center at
combines Ives natural remedies with education for consumers in a format that should allow millions of people relief for their ailments with virtually no side effects.
/CONTACT: For Ives Health: Strategic Communications, Investor Relations, 775/828-6576/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/27Feb0109.html
TO STATE, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SPORTS EDITORS:
Fund for Animals Calls on Pennsylvania to End Bobcat Hunting and Trapping
HARRISBURG, PA, Feb. 27 -/E-Wire/-- Pennsylvania's first sport hunting and trapping season on bobcats in 30 years came to a close Saturday. The Fund for Animals is asking Pennsylvania officials to stop this cruel and biologically reckless experiment from occurring again next year. The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) estimates that nearly 60 bobcats were killed this season, most of them in steel-jawed leghold traps. The PGC is already predicting that more than 800 permits will be issued next season.
/CONTACT: Heidi Prescott, 301-585-2591, ext. 213, or Diana Norris, 301-585-2591, ext. 207, both of The Fund for Animals/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/27Feb0104.html
TO BUSINESS, ENVIRONMENTAL AND EDUCATION EDITORS:
Higher Education Needs Environmental Leadership
WASHINGTON, DC, Feb. 27 -/E-Wire/-- The country's colleges and universities were reminded today that they are responsible to comply with federal and state environmental laws, just like their counterparts in business, industry, military and government.
/CONTACT: Ruth Wuenschel of United States Environmental Protection Agency Region III, 215-814-5540/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/27Feb0103.html
TO TECHNOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT EDITORS:
Put Your Business, Organization, and Yourself on the Great Map of the Outdoors Literally and Online at www.maptech.com Using MapServer's New My Maps Toolbox;
The Largest Collection of Free Topographic Maps and Charts for Land, Sea, and Air
GREENLAND, NH, Feb. 27 -/E-Wire/-- Maptech adds a new dimension to its MapServer, the largest free, online mapping resource for maps and charts on land, sea, and air. The new My Maps feature is the ultimate mapping show-off system available to the public -- highlight your business or personal adventure on genuine topographic maps and nautical charts. Using My Maps you can mark a location, name and link it to a web site of your choice. Save the location and email your personal collection of My Maps. It's easy. It's free. The applications are endless.
/CONTACT: Martin Fox, PR Manager, 888-433-8500 ext. 209,
mfox@maptech.com/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/27Feb0102.html
TO BUSINESS, ENVIRONMENTAL AND TECHNOLOGY EDITORS: Environ.com and National Safety Council to Provide A Wealth of Information on Indoor Air Quality
TEMPE AND WASHINGTON, AZ, DC, Feb. 27 -/E-Wire/-- The National Safety Council (NSC) and Environmental Support Solutions (Environ.com), a leading Internet environmental compliance portal, announced today that they are linking up to provide comprehensive information on Indoor Air Quality through their websites.
/CONTACT: Robin Suzelis of Environ.com, 480-346-5524, robin_suzelis@environ.com; or Joe Larkin of National Safety Council, 630-775-2303, larkinj@nsc.org/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/27Feb0101.html
SEND YOUR PRESS RELEASE ON E-WIRE -- 1-888-764-NEWS
3/1/01
2:38:31 PM
Environmental news from GRIST MAGAZINE
<http://www.gristmagazine.com>
1. BELIEVE IT OR NOT, WE'RE WALKING ON AIR Thanks to your votes, Grist was the winner of the Alternet New Media Hero Award contest. Shucks, we can hardly believe it. Thanks again for all your support -- we sure do appreciate it (and maybe we can leverage the award into more funding for compact fluorescent bulbs in the office).
straight to the source: Alternet New Media Hero Award contest <http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=10514>
2. SMOGGY WENT A COURTIN' AND THEY DID FAIL, UH-HUH In one of its most significant environmental decisions in years, the U.S. Supreme Court today rejected industry arguments and unanimously upheld the way the federal government sets clean air standards. The trucking and manufacturing industries argued that the U.S. EPA should consider compliance costs and not just health benefits in setting the standards. But Justice Antonin Scalia wrote in the court opinion that the Clean Air Act "unambiguously bars cost considerations." The high court also ruled that the section of the act on which the EPA relied in reaching standards for ozone and particulate pollution in 1997 did not amount to an unconstitutional delegation of legislative power from Congress to the executive branch. However, in a third part of the ruling, the court said that the EPA's implementation plan for the ozone standard was unreasonable and must be revisited.
straight to the source: Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb 2001
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/environ/20010227/tCB00a5307.html
3 SHERPAS ATTACK Nepali sherpa climbers will be paid to bring trash down from Mount Everest under a new program by the Nepal Mountaineering Association. Bhumi Lal Lama, an official with the group, says sherpas may earn up to $6 for each pound of garbage they carry from various upper camps to base camp. The worst site is the South Col camp at 25,918 feet, where climbers and their support teams have left empty oxygen canisters, old ladders, and other trash. Lama expects about 8,800 pounds of waste to be collected in the effort.
straight to the source: Planet Ark, Reuters, Gopal Sharma, 27 Feb 2001 <http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9920>
4. A LOTT OF B.S. Saying the U.S. is facing an energy crisis, Republicans in the Senate yesterday proposed an overhaul of the country's energy policy that would open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska to oil and gas drilling and provide billions of dollars of tax incentives and spending to spur additional domestic oil exploration. Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.) said energy shortages and high energy prices were "perhaps the greatest threat to our future economic prosperity." At the last minute, Sen. Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska), the chief sponsor of the energy bill, dropped from the measure one major tax break for oil companies. Never fear, though -- Big Oil would still get lots of goodies under the current plan. Plus, the bill would put aside almost $100 million to back the expansion of nuclear power. It would also include a program to help low-income families pay energy bills and provide some tax incentives for consumers to use renewable energy sources.
straight to the source: Washington Post, Eric Pianin and Peter Behr, 27 Feb 2001 <http://washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A58709-2001Feb26.html>
straight to the source: New York Times, Lizette Alvarez, 27 Feb 2001 <http://www.nytimes.com/2001/02/27/politics/27ENER.html>
do good: Take action to save the Arctic Refuge <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/dogood/land.stm>
5. ANTI-ENVIRONMENTALISM AS A WAY OF LIFE Don't follow the money? Some of the most sinister plans being laid by Dubya and Republicans in Congress to despoil the environment don't make a lot of sense if the goal is to pad industry's billfold. By most estimates, for example, there isn't enough profit to be made in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for the Grand Old Party to be making such a to-do over it for their industry pals. What gives? The answer is simple: anti-environmentalism as a way of life. Read more on the Grist Magazine website.
read it only in Grist Magazine: Dubya's pro-industry policies aren't only about the money -- by Jon Margolis in our opinions section <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/imho/imho022101.stm>
6. APPALLED BY SPRAWL Three key Bush administration officials promised governors yesterday that they would work to discourage urban sprawl, renew urban communities, and invest in public transportation. Speaking at the National Governors Association, the heads of the U.S. EPA, Housing and Urban Development Department, and Transportation Department said that President Bush's budget, to be unveiled tonight, will include significant money to fund "smart growth" policies. Smart growth seems to mean smart politics nowadays -- according to a study by the Brookings Institute, voters across the country weighed in on 553 growth-related ballot measures last November
straight to the source: Washington Post, Ben White, 27 Feb 2001 <http://washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A59255-2001Feb26.html>
do good: Take action to halt sprawl
http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/dogood/land.stm#sprawl
Also in GRIST MAGAZINE today:
Shell-shocked -- a cartoon by Suzy Becker <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/ha/ha022601.stm>
Toxic avenger -- a day in the life of Sunita Dubey, Toxics Link India <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/week/dubey022601.stm>
Oh, baby, baby, it's a dry world -- and other gems from assorted magazines in our Best of the Rest section <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/best/best012601.stm#dry>
3/1/01
1:28:46 PM
Researchers Prepare Solar Sail Test
PASADENA, Calif. (AP) -- Forget bulky rockets and costly fuel: A U.S.-Russian consortium plans to send a craft skyward that floats, not on the wind, but on the gentle pressure of the sun's rays.
The group hopes that solar sails can be used to boost or decrease the orbits of spacecraft, travel between the planets and someday even take humans to worlds around other stars.
Backers of the privately funded project hope a 30-minute suborbital test flight set for spring will show that a tightly packed solar sail can unfurl like an enormous kite in space.
A second, more ambitious mission will follow in October, when the group sends a larger version on what it hopes will be a voyage around the Earth.
``We'll count ourselves as successful if we fly even a short time in that mode,'' said Louis Friedman, manager of the Cosmos 1 project.
``The Wright brothers flew for 12 seconds and they had a successful flight. If we can fly not 12 seconds but 12 minutes, 12 days or 12 weeks, we'll be happy.''
The sail uses solar pressure in the same way a sailboat uses the wind. It consists of a large sheet of reflective material and a framework of inflatable girders to keep it extended.
The advantage is the same boasted by the sailboat: There is no need to carry much fuel, which can be expensive to launch into space. Small blasts from thrusters adjust the sail's trajectory.
When the sun's energy hits the surface of the solar sail, the particles, or photons -- traveling at the speed of light -- provide continuous thrust that can be increased or decreased depending on the sail's relationship to the sun.
A converted intercontinental ballistic missile will send both missions aloft from a Russian nuclear submarine in the Barents Sea -- a relatively inexpensive option that has kept the project's budget to $4 million.
Cosmos Studios, a science-based entertainment company founded by Ann Druyan, widow of the late astronomer Carl Sagan, and Joe Firmage, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur and sometimes UFO investigator, are footing the bill.
``We are proud to be a part of this historic mission, which is a critical baby step to the stars,'' said Druyan, Sagan's longtime collaborator.
The spacecraft is being built by the Babakin Space Center in Russia, while the Makeev Rocket Design Bureau has built the launch vehicle. The Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences is also a principal contractor.
The benefits of solar sails could be enormous: Cosmos Studios says the sails could theoretically attain speeds 10 times greater than NASA's Voyager I and II, which travel at 38,000 mph.
The American and European space agencies, and at least one private company, hope that future missions can rely on this high-tech and comparatively low-cost technology.
``If the Planetary Society mission is successful, it will be very useful to NASA,'' said Hoppy Price, manager of solar sail technology development at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Last year, NASA said it wants to launch an interstellar probe powered by space sails by 2010. The sail, spanning 440 yards or twice the diameter of the dome at the Louisiana Superdome, would be the largest spacecraft ever built, the agency said.
Solar-driven spacecraft will be slow to accelerate, but with time should reach velocities that will make travel across great distances possible.
``It allows you to travel, come back and go out again because you don't have to refuel,'' Price said.
The April launch will test the deployment of just two petal-shaped blades of Mylar polyester film. At the end of the brief flight the sail -- about one-fifth as thick as a garbage bag -- will fall to Earth.
For the orbital flight later this year, a larger eight-petal design will be launched. Inflatable trusses will pull the sail from a canister and become rigid to support it. Each of the triangular petals can be turned to steer the spacecraft, allowing it to tack like a sailboat.
``The goal is to be the first solar sail flight,'' said Friedman, executive director of The Planetary Society, a space advocacy group.
The orbiting spacecraft will gradually spiral away from Earth as sunlight pushes on the 720-square-yard sail. The 88-pound craft will carry two cameras and several instruments and should appear in the night sky as a point of light as bright as the full moon.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/national/AP-Solar-Sail.html
On the Net:
Solar Sail: http://www.u3p.net
The Planetary Society: http://planetary.org
Cosmos Studios: http://carlsagan.com
2/28/01
2:26:59 PM
please plant 100 trees for your life and on that note i'm outa here becouse we just had a 6.2 earthquake here in vancouver b. c.
2/26/01
10:14:20 PM
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE
"We Cover the Earth For You"
SLAUGHTER BEGINS AS UK TACKLES FOOT AND MOUTH OUTBREAK
LONDON, United Kingdom, February 26, 2001 (ENS) - The UK has prohibited the movement of all sheep, cattle, pigs and goats in response to the worst outbreak of foot and mouth disease in 30 years. The public have been warned not to gather in rural areas, marches have been canceled and sporting events are being reconsidered in light of the highly contagious disease.
For full text and graphics visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-26-10.html
CANADIAN ARCTIC AWAITS NEXT BIG QUAKE
IQALUIT, Nunavut, Canada, February 26, 2001 (ENS) - Recent earthquakes in India and El Salvador have prompted researchers to remind Canadians of the risks they face from tremors, particularly in the north.
For full text and graphics visit:
http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-26-11.html
ICY FINGERPRINTS MAY UNRAVEL SEA LEVEL MYSTERY
TORONTO, Canada, February 26, 2001 (ENS) - The assumption that melting ice caps will flood coastal locations evenly has been dispelled by researchers at the University of Toronto.
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-26-13.html
TIME AND FOREST RUNNING OUT FOR THE ORANGUTAN
NEW YORK, New York, February 26, 2001 (ENS) - The world's largest natural orangutan population will be extinct in about a decade unless poaching and habitat destruction is stopped. That is the finding of research funded by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), based at the Bronx Zoo.
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-26-12.html
SEND NEWS STORY TIPS TO news@ens-news.com
TO STATE, ENVIRONMENTAL AND FEATURES EDITORS:
Dates Set for Delaware River Sojourn
WEST TRENTON, N.J., Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- The Delaware River Sojourn, an annual event to heighten the awareness of and appreciation for the longest un-dammed river east of the Mississippi, will be held June 15 through June 23, 2001. This year's sojourn is titled "2001 - A River Odyssey."
/CONTACT: Christopher Roberts of the Delaware River Basin Commission, 609-883-9500, ext. 205, or croberts@drbc.state.nj.us/
/Web site: http://www.drbc.net/
For Full Text Visit: http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0108.html
TO ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT EDITORS:
Emex Corp. Registers Low-sulfur Diesel With EPA Company eyes California as proving ground
LAKEWOOD, CO, Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- EMEX Corp. (Nasdaq: EMEX - news) has completed Environmental Protection Agency registration of its low-sulfur diesel fuel, Blue Star S-2, synthesized via proprietary processes from natural gas.
/CONTACT: Weber Shandwick Worldwide, Matt Gallagher, 646/658-8155/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0107.html
TO ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT EDITORS:
DMEA's Marketing of Fuel Cells, GeoExchange Systems and Other Eco-Technologies Covered by Business Week
MONTROSE, CO, Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- (Montrose, CO) Delta-Montrose Electric Association (DMEA), an electric cooperative serving 28,000 customers in four counties in southwest Colorado, is featured in the March 5 edition of Business Week, one of the nation's most prestigious and widely read business periodicals.
/CONTACT: Tom Polikalas, 970-240-1245, tpolikalas@dmea.com/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0106.html
TO ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Orangutan Numbers Plummeting Worldwide; Species May Vanish in Ten Years, Study Says
NEW YORK, NY, Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- The orangutan - the only great ape found in Asia - may vanish from the wild within a decade, unless illegal logging of its habitat and poaching can be greatly reduced, according to research funded by the Bronx Zoo-based Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).
/CONTACT: STEPHEN SAUTNER (718-220-3682; ssautner@wcs.org), JOHN DELANEY (718-220-3275; jdelaney@wcs.org)/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0105.html
TO ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT EDITORS:
Federal Power Agency Issues Largest Wind Solicitation Ever Request for 1,000 MW of New Capacity Signals 'Breakthrough' for Wind in Pacific Northwest, U.S.
WASHINGTON, DC, Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- The Bonneville Power Administration's (BPA) decision to solicit proposals Feb. 21 for 1,000 megawatts (MW) of new wind energy generating capacity is a "major breakthrough" for the increasingly-competitive clean energy technology, the Washingon, D.C.-based American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) said today.
/CONTACT: Tom Gray (802) 649-2112, Christine Real de Azua (202) 383-2508/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0104.html
NEWS ADVISORY -- TO BUSINESS, CITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Media Briefing on GEMI's New Publication: 'New Paths to Business Value: Strategic Sourcing-Environment, Health, and Safety'
WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- The Global Environmental Management Initiative (GEMI) will announce the availability of its newest publication, New Paths to Business Value: Strategic Sourcing-Environment, Health, and Safety on March 13th at a media briefing in Washington, D.C. This guidance document has been designed to address the business value of managing Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) in Procurement.
/CONTACT: Amy Goldman, 202-296-7449, for The Global Environmental Management Initiative/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0103.html
TO EDUCATION AND BUSINESS EDITORS:
Social Responsibility and Business: A New Web-Based Training Course Teaches Managers How the "Business-Case" for Social Responsibility Results in Gains Over Competitors
GENEVA, Switzerland, Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- The following press release was issued today by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development:
Even the most hard-nose business skeptics can no longer deny that improvements in financial performance, reductions in operating costs, increases in sales and customer loyalty, and attracting the best and brightest employees -- are all attributable to a robust corporate social responsibility (CSR) program. Having made the "business case" for why companies should work more pro-actively on social issues, the Foundation for Business and Sustainable Development, the educational arm of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), has launched an Internet course aimed at company managers to share this collective learning.
/CONTACT: Virtual Learning Partners A/S, +47-67-81-52-30, for World Business Council for Sustainable Development/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0102.html
WITH PHOTO -- TO AUTO, ENVIRONMENT AND BUSINESS EDITORS:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20010226/LAM036
2001 Honda Civic GX First to Achieve Newest Emission Control Standards
TORRANCE, CA, Feb. 26 -/E-Wire/-- The natural gas-powered 2001 Honda Civic GX has become the first vehicle ever certified as an "Advanced Technology" near-zero emission vehicle and the first to achieve nationwide SULEV status, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.
/CONTACT: Art Garner, 310-783-3163, or Andy Boyd, 313-964-5676, or John Watts, 212-355-9191, all of American Honda Motor Co., Inc./
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/26Feb0101.html
SEND YOUR PRESS RELEASE ON E-WIRE -- 1-888-764-NEWS
2/26/01
9:56:00 PM
Planet Ark World Environment News
Doing environmental research? Search our news archives at: http://www.planetark.org/searchhome.cfm
UPDATE - Florida bans outdoor burning during drought - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9922
Senate bill kicks off fight over US energy policy - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9923
FEATURE - Arctic Refuge dispute extends to oil estimates - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9928
FACTBOX - Wide-ranging Senate bill aims to cut oil imports - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9932
British Sugar puts two CHP power projects on hold - UK http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9930
UK builds 5th power plant to burn cattle carcasses - UK http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9931
Nepal panel to pay sherpas to clean Mount Everest - NEPAL http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9920
Mozambique opening swollen Cahora Bassa dam - MOZAMBIQUE http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9929
Japan Grain-Corn buyers turn back on US, eye China - JAPAN http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9927
Japan MOX fuel plan dealt a setback - JAPAN http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9933
Delhi govt launches global tender for 5,000 CNG buses - INDIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9921
Fibreglass beaks to the rescue of hornbills - INDIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9926
Activists warn Powell against missile defence plan - EU http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9924
HK govt mulls labels for genetically-modified food - CHINA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9925
UPDATE - Greenpeace protests at E.ON over Czech N-plant - AUSTRIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9919
2/26/01
7:48:53 PM
The Nation
The Rockefeller Drug Laws, in force in New York State since 1973, are notorious for the draconian penalties they mandate for the possession or sale of small amounts of illegal drugs. These penalties apply without regard to the circumstances of the offense, the individual's background or any other potentially mitigating factor. At great expense to taxpayers, these laws fill the prisons with low-level, non-violent offenders who routinely leave their prison terms as much more hardened criminals than when they went in.
The abject failure of the Rockefeller Drug Laws in preventing crime and stemming illegal drug use has been apparent to all but the most ideological drug warriors for years. Even Republican Governor of New York George Pataki is now developing a new drug law reform package in conjunction with both Republican and Democratic state legislators. Against this backdrop, a diverse coalition of citizen groups has emerged to vigorously advocate for the repeal of the Rockefeller Drug Laws. Aptly titled "Drop the Rock," this ad-hoc coalition has moved quickly in channeling the growing public sentiment opposed to harsh drug sentencing.
Drop The Rock's first public event. "The War on Drugs: Its Impact on Individuals, Families, Communities, and the Nation," takes place this Thursday, March 1 at the New York Society for Ethical Culture. Co-sponsored by The Nation Institute, among many other terrific groups, this inaugural forum features some of the sanest voices calling for drug reform today. Moderated by Nation editor Katrina vanden Heuvel and actor Danny Glover, the panel features H. Carl McCall, Rev. Calvin Butts, Ron Daniels of the Center for Constitutional Rights, author Michael Massing, YouthForce organizer Tasha Williams and executive director of the Correctional Association Robert Gangi, among many others. There'll also be a thorough question-and-answer period so please join us this Thursday.
DROP THE ROCK Thursday, March 1, 7:00pm New York Society for Ethical Culture Admission is FREE!
After this March 1 event in New York City, DROP THE ROCK takes its efforts to the state capitol where a Day of Education and Action on March 27 in Albany will feature a litany of speakers calling for complete repeal of the Rockefeller Drug Laws. For information on this and other DROP THE ROCK activities, please call 212-254-5700, ext. 306
Best Regards, Peter Rothberg Associate Publisher
P.S. Don't miss recent Nation columns, editorials and articles on a wide-range of subjects by Katha Pollitt, Christopher Hitchens, Gregory Palast, Vincent Bugliosi, Ellen Willis, Jesse Jackson, Jr., Paul Wellstone, Marc Cooper, Eric Alterman, David Corn, Robert Scheer, Bob Filner, Michael Eric Dyson, Gore Vidal and JoAnn Wypijewski, among many others. All currently available at:
2/26/01
5:38:26 PM
Environmental news from GRIST MAGAZINE
<http://www.gristmagazine.com>
1. IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT With buddies of the auto industry now in charge of the White House, automakers said last week that they will no longer lobby to freeze federal fuel-efficiency standards. The Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards have remained unchanged since 1975, and the industry until last year had been successful in blocking the Clinton administration from even studying whether a raise should be considered. The National Academy of Sciences is due to complete a report on the issue by July. Dan Becker of the Sierra Club wasn't hopeful the report will lead to a significant miles-per-gallon boost: "The fact is that there is a freeze this year anyway and it's called George W. Bush."
straight to the source: Detroit Free Press, Janet L. Fix, 23 Feb 2001 <http://auto.com/industry/fuel23_20010223.htm>
read it only in Grist Magazine: Meet the Bush team -- brought to you by the auto industry -- in our opinions section <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/imho/imho012601-b.stm>
2. SECOND CLASS CITIZEN Al Gore spent his second class as a professor at Columbia University's journalism school focusing on how the media cover global warming. Before the class, students were given materials suggesting that the vast majority of the world's climate scientists believe global warming is occurring, and they were asked questions like, "Is it your view that scientists who are the minority on this issue and who remain unconvinced about the seriousness of the climate change problem should be given space in any and all coverage of this issue?" During the class, students said, Gore gave his own answer to the question, claiming that it was a cop-out for journalists to give significant weight to the views of global warming skeptics in their stories.
3. TAIPEI PERSONALITIES About 10,000 Taiwanese who don't want construction to resume on Taiwan's fourth nuclear power plant marched in protest through Taipei this weekend, calling for a national referendum on the issue. The plant, already one-third complete, was initiated by the Nationalist Party, which still holds a significant majority in the legislature despite losing the presidency to the Democratic Progressive Party candidate Chen Shui-bian last year. Chen said last October that he would end construction of the plant, but his administration bowed to pressure from Nationalists last month and let construction continue. In other nuke news, the controversial Czech plant located near Austria's border began operating again yesterday after a month-long shutdown due to technical problems. Austria is a nuke-free country.
straight to the source: Planet Ark, Reuters, Alice Hung, 26 Feb 2001 <http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9906>
Also in GRIST MAGAZINE today:
Time to put the fun back in funding -- a day in the life of Brenda Morehouse, Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/week/morehouse022301.stm>
Letter of the law -- can laws be written that inspire reverance for the land? -- in our Out on a Limb section <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/limb/limb020901.stm>
Recount! -- really fun facts and figures about the election -- in our Counter Culture column <http://www.gristmagazine.com/grist/counter/counter020801.stm>
2/26/01
5:29:03 PM
PETITION to the United States Congress REGARDING THE PRICE ANDERSON ACT View Current Signatures - Sign the Petition To: Senators and Congress I strongly oppose the expected rubber stamp renewal of The Price-Anderson Act when it is presented next to congress and demand that a serious study be conducted to determine the morality and constitutionality of this act for the following reasons:
Congress enacted the Price-Anderson Act in 1957 to establish a means to ensure that funds would be available to the public in the event of a nuclear incident. It does not do this. The Price Anderson Act excuses nuclear generators from all but a tiny fraction of the damages which could result from a major nuclear accident.
The refusal to accept full responsibility for actions which cause harm to others is unethical and distinctly defines an attitude of gross irresponsibility. The Price Anderson Act supports politically favored commercial enterprise at the expense of the public's safety and well-being.
The consequences of a major nuclear accident would threaten the lives of millions, and would render vast areas of land unfit for habitation for hundreds or thousands of years, threatening the viability of the entire economy as well as the health and welfare of the current and future public.
The Price Anderson Act applies a statute of limitations for illnesses (like cancer), caused by an accident, and victims of such diseases will be rendered ineligible for any compensation whatsoever after the limiting date expires. This will deprive them of any remedy for damage since most cancers take longer to develop than the statute of limitations in the Act.
The Price Anderson Act in effect has discouraged the development of alternative safer sources of energy which are much less costly to the American taxpaying utility rate payer, as the direct and hidden costs of nuclear plants have proved to be astronomical.
Now Therefore Be It Resolved:
1. The Price Anderson Act must not be renewed. 2. Nuclear Contractors and Operators must assume full responsibility for all damages to the public, without any statute of limitations.
Sincerely, The Undersigned
2/26/01
5:06:29 PM
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE (ENS)
"We Cover the Earth For You"
GREEN SCISSORS ASKS BUSH TO TRIM WASTEFUL BUDGET
WASHINGTON, DC, February 23, 2001 (ENS) - American taxpayers are footing a $55 billion bill for wasteful and environmentally damaging programs, charges a new report by a coalition of environmental, taxpayer and consumer groups. The Green Scissors 2001 report details 74 federal programs whose elimination could protect the environment and save taxpayers billions of dollars.
For full text and graphics visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-23-06.html
ARGENTINA PLANS PROTECTION FOR WHALE BREEDING GROUNDS
By Alejandra Herranz
PUERTO MADRYN, Chubut, Argentina, February 23, 2001 (ENS) - International consultants and local nongovernmental organizations meeting at Puerto Madryn this week have joined with the local community and government to conserve an endangered whale breeding ground at nearby El Doradillo.
For full text and graphics visit:
http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-23-01.html
CANADA FIGHTS NAFTA's PCB RULING IN COURT
OTTAWA, Ontario, Canada, February 22, 2001 (ENS) - Canada is asking its own federal court to overturn a North American free trade tribunal ruling that Canada breached trade rules when it banned exports of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) waste in the 1990s.
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-23-10.html
UK GOVERNMENT GIVEN 10 WAYS TO FULFILL RIO SUMMIT
LONDON, United Kingdom, February 23, 2001 (ENS) - UK conservation groups are calling on the government to implement a 10 point plan to reverse the decline of the country's threatened species.
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-23-12.html
FISHERIES SURVIVAL DEPENDS ON PIRATE CRACKDOWN
ROME, Italy, February 23, 2001 (ENS) - Attempts to stop pirate fishing are doomed unless this week's negotiations in Italy can improve on a draft international plan, said environmental group Greenpeace, Thursday.
For full text and graphics, visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-23-11.html
ENVIRONMENT NEWS SERVICE AMERISCAN: FEBRUARY 23, 2001
Judge Calls Forest Service Closure Unconstitutional
Toxic Pesticide Drifts onto Florida Church Properties
San Francisco Transit Operators Sued Over Dirty Air
Maxxam Logging Blamed for Water Pollution
Supreme Court Declines to Hear ESA Challenge
Doris Duke Foundation Devotes Millions to Protecting Biodiversity
Lake Okeechobee Targeted for Cleanup
Solar Power in a Backpack
For full text and graphics visit:
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/feb2001/2001L-02-23-09.html
HEALING OUR WORLD: WEEKLY COMMENT By Jackie Alan Giuliano, Ph.D.
You Deserve A Break Today - From Contaminated Meat
Concern is increasing across the nation and the world about the condition of our food supply. More and more, contaminated meat products are resulting in millions of illnesses each year and estimates are that 7,000 to 8,000 people in the U.S. alone die annually from eating contaminated meat.
SEND NEWS STORY TIPS TO news@ens-news.com
TO AUTO AND ENVIRONMENT EDITORS:
Cummins and Westport Announce California Certification for Low-emissions Truck Engine
VANCOUVER, B.C., Canada, Feb. 23 -/E-Wire/-- Westport Innovations Inc. (TSE:WPT) of Vancouver, British Columbia announced today that it has obtained California low-emissions certification for a Cummins truck engine with a Westport natural gas fuel system. The certified engine is the world's highest capacity and most powerful natural gas truck engine.
/CONTACT: Westport: Alan Bayless, Manager, Media and Investor Relations, Phone (604) 718-2016, fax (604) 718-2001, e-mail: abayless@westport.com;
Cummins: Dorothy Brown Smith, Director, Public Relations, Phone (812) 377-1085, fax (812) 377-3272, e-mail: Dorothy.B.Smith@cummins.com/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/23Feb0104.html
TO POLITICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Experts Available to Discuss Murkowski Energy Bill
WASHINGTON, DC, Feb. 23 -/E-Wire/-- Sen. Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska) will release energy legislation on Monday that would open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and other wildlands to oil drilling; provide more taxpayer subsidies to polluters; and roll back environmental and health protections.
/CONTACT: Jan Vertefeuille, EMS, 202/463-6670/
http://www.ems.org/bush_cheney/energy_experts.html/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/23Feb0103.html
-- WITH PHOTO -- TO BUSINESS, AUTO AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS:
Honda Insight Tops Rankings in 2001 ACEEE Green Book
TORRANCE, CA, Feb. 23 -/E-Wire/-- The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) has recognized the Honda Insight as the number one gasoline-powered performer in its annual ACEEE's Green Book: The Environmental Guide to Cars and Trucks -- Model Year 2001. The Insight and the natural gas powered Civic GX tied for the top spot. In addition, the Civic HX grabbed the best vehicle in class award being cited as a "Greener Choice."
/CONTACT: Andy Boyd, 313-964-5676, Art Garner, 310-783-3163, or John Watts, 212-355-9191, all of American Honda Motor Company/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/23Feb0102.html
TO ENVIRONMENTAL, LEGAL AND NATIONAL EDITORS:
Fund for Animals Reports that BLM is Still Violating Settlement Agreement on the Slaughter of Adopted Wild Horses
RENO, NV, Feb. 23 -/E-Wire/-- The Fund for Animals has filed a response to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in U.S. District Court, claiming that the BLM is still failing to implement the Wild and Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act and the parties' 1997 settlement agreement that intended to stem the tide of adopted horses going to slaughter.
/CONTACT: Andrea Lococo of the Fund for Animals, 307-859-8840; or Howard Crystal of Meyer and Glitzenstein, 202-588-5206/
http://ens.lycos.com/e-wire/Feb01/23Feb0101.html
SEND YOUR PRESS RELEASE ON E-WIRE -- 1-888-764-NEWS
2/26/01
5:03:24 PM
Planet Ark World Environment News
Doing environmental research? Search our news archives at: http://www.planetark.org/searchhome.cfm
BPA seeks more wind power generation in Northwest - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9910
GM asks court to scrap Calif. zero emission rules - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9902
US tanker spills down 75 percent since Valdez - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9903
Coal to fire most of Wisconsin Energy's power growth - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9904
Wasteful US govt programs add up to $55 bln-report - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9915
UPDATE - Senator changes bill to reform US energy policy - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9907
Rain forest complaint x???. boardwalk repairs - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9901
Europe becoming two-tier GM/non-GM market - Toepfer - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9913
Enviro group wants US EPA to remain firm on pesticides - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9918
US looks to bio-based products to help farmers - USA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9911
Taiwan protesters demand nuclear plant referendum - TAIWAN http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9906
Spain's Gamesa signs $70.7 mln syndicated loan - SPAIN http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9909
Korea KEPCO to spend 5.7 trln won on power plants - SOUTH KOREA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9905
Russia fires up reactor at new nuclear power plant - RUSSIA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9908
Greenpeace wades into Trevi fountain for protest - ITALY http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9914
Anti-nuclear protesters block German rail line - GERMANY http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9916
Ontario court upholds Metis aboriginal hunting rights - CANADA http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9912
Dead fish stench greets Brazil Carnival revelers - BRAZIL http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm?newsid=9917
2/26/01
4:37:55 PM
US, Russia building bomb 100 times more powerful than hydrogen
WASHINGTON, Feb 22: The US and Russia are jointly working on building a pure fusion bomb hundred times more powerful than the hydrogen bombs.
Experiments are being jointly conducted at American Sandia National Laboratory in New Mexico and Russian Los Alamos National Laboratory, Hisham Zerriffi, project scientist at Institute for Energy and Environmental Research and Arjun Makhijani, president of IEER, said.
"Hydrogen bomb is set off by a fission trigger whereas for a pure fusion bomb, there is no such trigger and no minimum critical mass is needed. Pure fusion weapons could be made with very low yields and would not produce fallout, blurring distinction between conventional and nuclear explosives. Yet lethality of such weapons would still be great," the two scientists said.
"Though the scientific feasibility of pure fusion weapons has yet to be proven, research on pure fusion explosions sends a dangerous signal about the intent of nuclear weapon powers," they said. Referring to India, they said, "India's refusal to sign CTBT was, in part, a reaction to this type of research by nuclear weapon states. In turn, its decision to conduct underground nuclear tests was partly related to its conclusion that CTBT had changed from a non-discriminatory instrument designed to promote both non-proliferation and disarmament into a tool for non-proliferation alone. Furthermore, some fusion research appears to violate CTBT."