Sustainable Sandhills Sustainable Saturdays Film Series
Carbon Nation
April 2 and 16, 2011, 11:00 am
CAMEO Art House Theatre, 225 Hay Street, Downtown Fayetteville
$6 per person, $5 for Cameo & Sustainable Sandhills members. Tickets sold the day of the event.
“A high energy film about real life American renewable energy success stories. No pie-in-the-sky projects here - everybody's sleeves are rolled up and work is underway!” – Jon Parsons, Executive Director of Sustainable Sandhills
Join Sustainable Sandhills this Saturday for the next installment of our Sustainable Saturdays Film Series. Carbon Nation is a feature length documentary about climate change solutions. Even if you doubt the severity of the impact of climate change or just don't buy it at all, this is a compelling and relevant film that illustrates how solutions to climate change also address other social, economic and national security issues.
Showing posts with label carbon emisisons. Show all posts
Showing posts with label carbon emisisons. Show all posts
12/20/2009
Dismantle Agribusiness to Save Rainforests
Environmental and Indigenous Activists Criticize Proposed Deal to Save Rainforests
On Wednesday, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the Obama administration would commit $1 billion over the next three years toward a proposed global scheme to preserve tropical forests. It's called REDD, or Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation. As countries attempt to hammer out a final deal before the end of the summit, Anjali Kamat files a report featuring a range of concerns over what this UN-backed proposal could mean for the future of the world’s rainforests and forest dwellers.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/environmental_and_indigenous_activists_criticize_proposed
On Wednesday, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the Obama administration would commit $1 billion over the next three years toward a proposed global scheme to preserve tropical forests. It's called REDD, or Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation. As countries attempt to hammer out a final deal before the end of the summit, Anjali Kamat files a report featuring a range of concerns over what this UN-backed proposal could mean for the future of the world’s rainforests and forest dwellers.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/environmental_and_indigenous_activists_criticize_proposed
Vegetarians Cut Emissions
"The Countries that Can Really Make a Difference Have Not Really Got Sensitive Enough to the Plight of the Poorest of the Poor" - IPCC Chair Pachauri
We speak with Rajendra Pachauri, the chair of the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change about the climate summit, the role of developed countries, and why he promotes vegetarianism as a way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Pachauri and the IPCC won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/the_countries_that_can_really_make
We speak with Rajendra Pachauri, the chair of the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change about the climate summit, the role of developed countries, and why he promotes vegetarianism as a way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Pachauri and the IPCC won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/12/18/the_countries_that_can_really_make
2/20/2009
10/08/2008
Carbon Free, Nuclear Free, Oct. 22
NC WARN presents: Carbon Free and Nuclear Free
Protecting our climate and economy with renewable energy, with Dr. Arjun Makhijani
Wednesday, October 22, 7:30 pm. Community United Church of Christ, Raleigh (Cnr. of Dixie Trail & Wade Ave.)
Free admission
Dr. Makhijani, a leading voice on U.S. energy issues since the 1970s, has laid out a Roadmap for solving the climate & energy crises in a technically and economically viable manner.
“The necessity for drastic action to reduce CO2 emissions is now widely recognized … A zero-CO2 U.S. economy without nuclear power is not only achievable – it is necessary for environmental protection and security … Complete elimination of CO2 and of nuclear power could occur as early as 2040.”
From Carbon-Free and Nuclear-Free: A Roadmap for U.S. Energy Policy by Arjun Makhijani.
“[Arjun’s] Roadmap could liberate us from an energy policy that is trashing our climate and our mountaintops." S. David Freeman, former Chairman, Tennessee Valley Authority
“Arjun has produced … an urgent action plan to move the Earth in a dignified way out of intensive care.” Dr. Helen Caldicott, Founding President, Nuclear Policy Institute
Download or purchase the book, Carbon-Free and Nuclear-Free at www.ieer.org
NC WARN
N.C. Waste Awareness & Reduction Network
P.O. Box 61051
Durham, NC 27715-1051
919-416-5077
email: ncwarn@ncwarn.org
www.ncwarn.org
Protecting our climate and economy with renewable energy, with Dr. Arjun Makhijani
Wednesday, October 22, 7:30 pm. Community United Church of Christ, Raleigh (Cnr. of Dixie Trail & Wade Ave.)
Free admission
Dr. Makhijani, a leading voice on U.S. energy issues since the 1970s, has laid out a Roadmap for solving the climate & energy crises in a technically and economically viable manner.
“The necessity for drastic action to reduce CO2 emissions is now widely recognized … A zero-CO2 U.S. economy without nuclear power is not only achievable – it is necessary for environmental protection and security … Complete elimination of CO2 and of nuclear power could occur as early as 2040.”
From Carbon-Free and Nuclear-Free: A Roadmap for U.S. Energy Policy by Arjun Makhijani.
“[Arjun’s] Roadmap could liberate us from an energy policy that is trashing our climate and our mountaintops." S. David Freeman, former Chairman, Tennessee Valley Authority
“Arjun has produced … an urgent action plan to move the Earth in a dignified way out of intensive care.” Dr. Helen Caldicott, Founding President, Nuclear Policy Institute
Download or purchase the book, Carbon-Free and Nuclear-Free at www.ieer.org
NC WARN
N.C. Waste Awareness & Reduction Network
P.O. Box 61051
Durham, NC 27715-1051
919-416-5077
email: ncwarn@ncwarn.org
www.ncwarn.org
10/01/2008
Form Designed to Tell Them Off
http://www.acmeclimateaction.com/files/ACME_watch_business_letter.pdf
7/20/2008
Organic, Local, Seasonal, Low on the Food Chain
Eat foods that are at once organic, local, seasonal and low on the food chain. Local keeps down the transportation miles. Organic eliminates the high energy costs of pesticides and fertilizers. Seasonal foods do not need greenhouses or long periods of refrigeration. And the food chain matters, carbon-wise: the CO2 impact of a pound of beef can be 250 times as great as that of a pound of carrots.
Susan Burns, Global Footprint Network
Susan Burns, Global Footprint Network
7/19/2008
7/11/2008
Conservation Insider Bulletin, July 11
Conservation Insider Bulletin
Published weekly for the Conservation Council of North Carolina
Conservation News to Peruse & Use
Editor: Dan Besse, cib@conservationcouncilnc.org
July 11, 2008
Bush punts greenhouse gas regulation over to the next administration, plus legislative and judicial news, this week in CIB:
--Washington Watch: No Responsibility on His Watch
--Legislative Watch: Watered-down Drought and Stormwater Bills Advance; Farmworker Protection Approved; Beach Hardening Continues to Lurk
--Judicial Watch: Appeals Court Throws Out CAIR
Washington Watch: No Responsibility on His Watch
In another stunning display of arrogant irresponsibility, the Bush White House has successfully forced a protesting EPA to stall off action on regulating greenhouse gases to the next administration. EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson announced today that the agency would release its draft "advanced notice of proposed rulemaking" together with the explanations from higher Administration sources for its rejection of that draft.
This action is remarkable in that the U.S. Supreme Court declared in April 2007 that (contrary to the Bush Administration's assertions) the EPA has the authority and duty to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Pursuant to that directive, the EPA last December sent to the White House a report laying out the technical support for a draft rule, which concluded that greenhouse gas emissions clearly represent a threat to human welfare and further that it is economically justified to regulate them. The White House uber-bureaucrats charged with overseeing the EPA refused to receive the report, which languished in political limbo while other Administration officials prepared their rejection of its reasoning.
In plain language, what the Bush Administration has done is this: tell the Supreme Court that it doesn't like its decision, won't implement it, and by the time anybody can do anything about the refusal, they'll be gone. Here's a link to today's complete Washington Post story laying the matter out in more detail: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/11/AR2008071101703.html?hpid=topnews.
CIB encourages our readers to check it out: It's breathtaking...pun intended.
Legislative Watch: Watered-down Drought and Stormwater Bills Advance; Farmworker Protection Approved; Beach Hardening Continues to Lurk
Watered-down Drought and Stormwater Bills Advance: CCNC's Director of Governmental Relations Dan Crawford reports that stakeholder negotiations have produced a classic compromise on stormwater rules (i.e., a deal with which no one is happy). Under the compromise bill, which has passed the Senate and been recommended by the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee, coastal stormwater rules would be strengthened from the status quo—but not by as much as the Environmental Management Commission (EMC) rules would have done. In the short run, CCNC is backing the compromise. In the longer run, Crawford says to state policy-makers, "We need to let them [the EMC] do their job!"
Drought management legislation has also been brought forward for consideration in compromised form. HB 2499, "Drought/Water Management Recommendations", would specify the governor's emergency powers during water shortages, and increase the authority of the N.C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to impose restrictions on local water systems during drought. However, the compromise bill fails to include specific mandatory minimum water conservation measures, and is therefore viewed as a major "missed opportunity" by conservationists.
Farmworker Protection Approved: SB 847, "Prevent Agricultural Pesticide Exposure", has been approved by the legislature and sent to the governor for his signature. Toxic Free NC (formerly the Agricultural Resource Project) hailed the bill as a victory for farmworkers, who will gain explicit protection against retaliation for reporting pesticide safety problems. The bill also strengthens pesticide use record-keeping requirements by employers.
Beach Hardening Continues to Lurk: Rumors continue to circulate that some unspecified "compromise" approach may emerge late regarding SB 599, the so-called "Inlet Stabilization Pilot Program" bill. This legislation represents the latest attempt by a small group of wealthy beachfront property owners to carve out exceptions to North Carolina's anti-hardening policies on its ocean shore. The deceptively-named "pilot programs" authorized by the bill are the same old rock groins which have long been conclusively discredited as beach protection tools. These oceanfront hard structures act only to accumulate sand in front of one spot at the expense of down-current areas. Coastal conservationists vigorously oppose this legislation, which passed the Senate last year and has been held in the House since that time. By barring new oceanfront seawalls, groins, and jetties, North Carolina has protected much of its natural beach shoreline for more than 20 years. This is no time to retreat from that sound policy.
Judicial Watch: Appeals Court Throws Out CAIR
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit this week unanimously struck down the Bush EPA's Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). CAIR is a controversial rule which requires 28 states (mostly Eastern states) to reduce air pollutant emissions which travel interstate and affect smog and soot levels elsewhere. Some environmental groups defended the EPA's approach, while others challenged it as too slow and overly reliant on a "cap and trade" pollutant-trading approach.
In its ruling, the Court found that the EPA had exceeded its authority, and ordered the entire rule scrapped. The practical impact of the Court's decision will be to delay final rulemaking on the subject matter until the next presidential administration. As of CIB press time today, most environmental groups' comments on the ruling were not available online, although some were reportedly calling for Congressional action in response. Several North Carolina-based groups had criticized CAIR in 2006 as insufficiently protective of North Carolina's air.
Published weekly for the Conservation Council of North Carolina
Conservation News to Peruse & Use
Editor: Dan Besse, cib@conservationcouncilnc.org
July 11, 2008
Bush punts greenhouse gas regulation over to the next administration, plus legislative and judicial news, this week in CIB:
--Washington Watch: No Responsibility on His Watch
--Legislative Watch: Watered-down Drought and Stormwater Bills Advance; Farmworker Protection Approved; Beach Hardening Continues to Lurk
--Judicial Watch: Appeals Court Throws Out CAIR
Washington Watch: No Responsibility on His Watch
In another stunning display of arrogant irresponsibility, the Bush White House has successfully forced a protesting EPA to stall off action on regulating greenhouse gases to the next administration. EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson announced today that the agency would release its draft "advanced notice of proposed rulemaking" together with the explanations from higher Administration sources for its rejection of that draft.
This action is remarkable in that the U.S. Supreme Court declared in April 2007 that (contrary to the Bush Administration's assertions) the EPA has the authority and duty to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Pursuant to that directive, the EPA last December sent to the White House a report laying out the technical support for a draft rule, which concluded that greenhouse gas emissions clearly represent a threat to human welfare and further that it is economically justified to regulate them. The White House uber-bureaucrats charged with overseeing the EPA refused to receive the report, which languished in political limbo while other Administration officials prepared their rejection of its reasoning.
In plain language, what the Bush Administration has done is this: tell the Supreme Court that it doesn't like its decision, won't implement it, and by the time anybody can do anything about the refusal, they'll be gone. Here's a link to today's complete Washington Post story laying the matter out in more detail: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/11/AR2008071101703.html?hpid=topnews.
CIB encourages our readers to check it out: It's breathtaking...pun intended.
Legislative Watch: Watered-down Drought and Stormwater Bills Advance; Farmworker Protection Approved; Beach Hardening Continues to Lurk
Watered-down Drought and Stormwater Bills Advance: CCNC's Director of Governmental Relations Dan Crawford reports that stakeholder negotiations have produced a classic compromise on stormwater rules (i.e., a deal with which no one is happy). Under the compromise bill, which has passed the Senate and been recommended by the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee, coastal stormwater rules would be strengthened from the status quo—but not by as much as the Environmental Management Commission (EMC) rules would have done. In the short run, CCNC is backing the compromise. In the longer run, Crawford says to state policy-makers, "We need to let them [the EMC] do their job!"
Drought management legislation has also been brought forward for consideration in compromised form. HB 2499, "Drought/Water Management Recommendations", would specify the governor's emergency powers during water shortages, and increase the authority of the N.C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to impose restrictions on local water systems during drought. However, the compromise bill fails to include specific mandatory minimum water conservation measures, and is therefore viewed as a major "missed opportunity" by conservationists.
Farmworker Protection Approved: SB 847, "Prevent Agricultural Pesticide Exposure", has been approved by the legislature and sent to the governor for his signature. Toxic Free NC (formerly the Agricultural Resource Project) hailed the bill as a victory for farmworkers, who will gain explicit protection against retaliation for reporting pesticide safety problems. The bill also strengthens pesticide use record-keeping requirements by employers.
Beach Hardening Continues to Lurk: Rumors continue to circulate that some unspecified "compromise" approach may emerge late regarding SB 599, the so-called "Inlet Stabilization Pilot Program" bill. This legislation represents the latest attempt by a small group of wealthy beachfront property owners to carve out exceptions to North Carolina's anti-hardening policies on its ocean shore. The deceptively-named "pilot programs" authorized by the bill are the same old rock groins which have long been conclusively discredited as beach protection tools. These oceanfront hard structures act only to accumulate sand in front of one spot at the expense of down-current areas. Coastal conservationists vigorously oppose this legislation, which passed the Senate last year and has been held in the House since that time. By barring new oceanfront seawalls, groins, and jetties, North Carolina has protected much of its natural beach shoreline for more than 20 years. This is no time to retreat from that sound policy.
Judicial Watch: Appeals Court Throws Out CAIR
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit this week unanimously struck down the Bush EPA's Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR). CAIR is a controversial rule which requires 28 states (mostly Eastern states) to reduce air pollutant emissions which travel interstate and affect smog and soot levels elsewhere. Some environmental groups defended the EPA's approach, while others challenged it as too slow and overly reliant on a "cap and trade" pollutant-trading approach.
In its ruling, the Court found that the EPA had exceeded its authority, and ordered the entire rule scrapped. The practical impact of the Court's decision will be to delay final rulemaking on the subject matter until the next presidential administration. As of CIB press time today, most environmental groups' comments on the ruling were not available online, although some were reportedly calling for Congressional action in response. Several North Carolina-based groups had criticized CAIR in 2006 as insufficiently protective of North Carolina's air.
NC Legislative Update from CCNC
Drought and Stormwater Meet the House and Senate
Support Drought Legislation. On Tuesday, the House Environment and Natural Resources Commission approved HB 2499, Drought/Water Management Recommendations. The bill now will be considered by the full House. This bill is a significant step forward for the State, specifying the governor’s emergency powers during water shortages and increasing the authority of state officials to impose restrictions on local water system during the increasing stages of drought.
The bill presented to the Committee was quickly criticized by legislators and environmental organizations because it failed to set uniform minimum conservation measures or set water-savings goals for counties across the state. Previous bill drafts had proposed such uniform conservation measures for all systems that required reduced water use by 10% and then 20% under the two worst levels of drought. But, opposition to such uniform measures quickly mounted and shamefully the mandatory minimum measures went by the wayside.
Local governments had already been charged with filing water shortage response plans with the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources(DENR) by the start of this month; however, prior to this session’s proposed legislation, no standards existed that these water shortage response plans had to meet. Section 5 of HB 2499 directs DENR to approve the local government or water system’s plan if it meets just three criteria, the two most descriptive criteria being that: the plan should includes a tiered level of water conservation measures or other response actions; and that each tier of water conservation measures should be based on increased severity of drought/water shortage that would lead to stricter water conservation measures. At Tuesday’s committee meeting, Representative Weiss wisely questioned if the current legislation by just stipulating a tiered system was adequate and expressed the need for DENR to amend this language. Much depends on these individual plans that DENR must now approve. Environmental groups on the NC Common Agenda 2008 remain strongly supportive of linking water conservation goals back to a specific, quantifiable savings for the state.
If the local government or water system fails to implement proposed restrictions during severe, extreme, or exceptional drought, this legislation allows state official s to force restrictions. Should these restrictions fail to minimize harm to public health, safety, and the environment, then even more stringent restrictions would be authorized by state officials. In a water shortage emergency, the governor is further permitted to force water sharing if the supplying system has excess water beyond their need.
On improving general state-wide efforts, Rep. Tarleton and Rep. Luebke further suggested that more public education and outreach to the public on water conservation was needed. Certainly, the public and the legislators have much to learn and do in order to prepare and manage the state’s precious water resources. HB 2499 is a welcome start. Please Support HB 2499. HB 2499 passed the third reading on the Senate floor yesterday. This afternoon, the bill was removed from the calendar, even after yesterday's unexpected caucus on the floor for amendments; but will be taken up as priority on Monday when the House meets again.
Support Stormwater Management Revisions. Stormwater regulations over this session have been rendered palatable enough to gain the “whole hearted” endorsement of the developers and general acceptance by coastal cities and municipalities. On Tuesday, SB 1967, formerly the “Disapprove Coastal Stormwater Bill” was replaced with the committee substitute, “Improve Coastal Stormwater Management,” which is the product of the series of eight negotiation meetings that began back in April. The environmental community supports the coastal stormwater compromise. The newest costal stormwater rules require stricter setback and drainage requirements for these 20 coastal counties; but some scientists and environmental regulators still think that this new rule is not enough. The environmental community believes more could have been done to protect our environment but recognizes that the “compromise” bill will protect the environment more than rules currently in place. The environmental community asks lawmakers to support the committee substitute of SB 1967. Further, the environmental community also encourages legislators oppose amendments that would upset the compromise reached at stakeholder meetings. Finally, legislators should reject efforts to disapprove or delay implementing the Coastal Stormwater Program.
We all have a responsibility to protect and enhance our state’s water quality. Chronic lowering of environmental standards and protections is a trend the State’s legislature should avoid at all costs. Great concern was expressed in the environmental community after the Honorables mentioned on Tuesday that the EMC’s authority might be repealed after, SB 1967 is voted on, to set coastal stormwater rules for a certain length of time. This pronouncement is disquieting for many outside of the legislature. If the EMC’s authority is tampered with, then those most experienced and knowledgeable on the impacts to state waters are effectively forced by the legislators to take the back seat to political considerations. Shouldn’t our water quality protection measures be based on pragmatic conservation approaches and sound science rather than political pandering?
Updates
Strengthen North Carolina's drought response.
SUPPORT H2499 (S1879)
Protect our coast from stormwater pollution.
SUPPORT the Committee Substitute for SB1967 (adopted 7/8/08)
Defend our shoreline from hardened structures.
OPPOSE S599
Stop global warming, start clean cars.
SUPPORT H 2526 and H1179(S1307)
The NC Common Agenda is endorsed by: Audubon NC / Conservation Council of NC / Environment NC / Environmental Defense Fund / NC Coastal Federation / NC Conservation Network / NC Sierra Club / Penderwatch & Conservancy / Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
Legislative Summaries
H838 Ban Incandescent Light Bulbs
This legislation would prohibit the sale of general service incandescent light bulbs in the state. Support.
H1134 Cleanup of Abandoned Manufactured Homes
This legislation would protect public health and the environment by encouraging counties to develop plans for deconstructing abandoned manufactured homes and removing reusable or recyclable components. The legislation would impose an environmental remediation tax on the sale of new and used manufactured homes to fund the deconstruction of abandoned manufactured homes. Support.
H1154 Oak Island/Erosion Setback Line
This legislation, which applies to the Town of Oak Island, alters setback rules in cases of beaches that have undergone renourishment programs. Altering the setback rules undermines sound planning principles and prudent coastal management rules that have been in place for some time. Oppose.
H1179/S1307 Clean Cars Program/Funds
This legislation would establish North Carolina's low emission vehicle program. Support.
H1611 Stormwater Requirements' cost to County/City
This legislation requires the ERC to prepare and submit a fiscal note to the county or city detailing the costs of meeting post-construction stormwater management standards. Oppose.
H1834 Local Government Economic Impact
This legislation expands the Local Government Fiscal Information Act to require an economic impact statement (EIS) rather than just a fiscal note, similar to the EIS used in the rulemaking process. This act effectively alters the procedures for all parties of local governments who expect to experience substantial economic impacts (of at least $3 million in a 12-month period) from the costs of meeting State regulations and rules. Oppose.
H1889 Present Use Value System Modifications
This legislation would provide property tax relief to landowners who manage their lands for wildlife and other conservation benefits. The House passed H1889 by an overwhelming vote in the 2007 session. This bill awaits the Senate's ruling. Support.
H1997 Economic Impact/Regulatory Legislation
This legislation would require economic impact statements (EIS) for all bills proposing regulatory changes, similar to he fiscal notes agencies must prepare during the rule making process. Oppose.
H2499 / S1879 Drought/Water Management Recommendations
This legislation requires that surface and groundwater withdrawls and transfers (between river basins) of greater than or equal to 100,000 gallons per day be registered with the Environmental Management Commission. Support.
H2506 Sedimentation Ctrl/Local Gov't Envorcement
This legislation would clarify the process for appeals from civil penalties assed by a local government that have established and approved erosion and sedimentation control programs. In keeping with a recommendation by the Environmental Review Commission, this legislation would provide local governments with such programs to issue stop work orders. Support.
H2526 Motor Vehicle Emissions Study
This legislation would direct the Environmental Review Commission, in consultation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, to study the costs and benefits--economic and environmental--of adopting the California motor vehicle emissions standards for the State. This act further directs that a report of findings, recommendations, and legislative proposals be submitted by 1 April 2009. Support.
H2675 Adopt-A-Trail Funds
This legislation would increase the funds for the Adopt-a-Trail Program within the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources by $892,000 for the 2008-2009 fiscal year. Support.
H2709 No Mountaintop Removal Coal Mining
This legislation would prohibit any public utility that operates a coal-fired generating unit in the State to generate electricity from purchasing or using coal extracted by mountaintop removal coal mining. This bill provides for cost recovery and appropriates funds for any utility's incremental costs of purchasing or using coal extracted by some method other than mountaintop removal coal mining. Support.
H2710 Income Tax Credit - Energy-Efficient Homes
This legislation would provide an income tax credit for builders of: state-certified energy-efficient homes, under the NC Healthy Build Homes Program, of $2,000; or the federally qualified energy-efficient home under the ENERGY STAR Program of $1,000. Support.
H2718 N.C. Green Business Fund
This legislation would change the NC Green Business Fund from a grant-making fund to a no-interest loan-making fund and would appropriate funds to the Department of Commerce for this purpose. Support.
H2720 Energy-Efficient State Motor Vehicle Fleets
This legislation would require every new passenger motor vehicle transferred to or purchasaed by the Department of Administration or by the Department of Transportation to have a fuel economy rating, as set by the U.S. EPA for the new vehicle's model year, in the top 10 percent for its class of vehicles. Support.
Support Drought Legislation. On Tuesday, the House Environment and Natural Resources Commission approved HB 2499, Drought/Water Management Recommendations. The bill now will be considered by the full House. This bill is a significant step forward for the State, specifying the governor’s emergency powers during water shortages and increasing the authority of state officials to impose restrictions on local water system during the increasing stages of drought.
The bill presented to the Committee was quickly criticized by legislators and environmental organizations because it failed to set uniform minimum conservation measures or set water-savings goals for counties across the state. Previous bill drafts had proposed such uniform conservation measures for all systems that required reduced water use by 10% and then 20% under the two worst levels of drought. But, opposition to such uniform measures quickly mounted and shamefully the mandatory minimum measures went by the wayside.
Local governments had already been charged with filing water shortage response plans with the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources(DENR) by the start of this month; however, prior to this session’s proposed legislation, no standards existed that these water shortage response plans had to meet. Section 5 of HB 2499 directs DENR to approve the local government or water system’s plan if it meets just three criteria, the two most descriptive criteria being that: the plan should includes a tiered level of water conservation measures or other response actions; and that each tier of water conservation measures should be based on increased severity of drought/water shortage that would lead to stricter water conservation measures. At Tuesday’s committee meeting, Representative Weiss wisely questioned if the current legislation by just stipulating a tiered system was adequate and expressed the need for DENR to amend this language. Much depends on these individual plans that DENR must now approve. Environmental groups on the NC Common Agenda 2008 remain strongly supportive of linking water conservation goals back to a specific, quantifiable savings for the state.
If the local government or water system fails to implement proposed restrictions during severe, extreme, or exceptional drought, this legislation allows state official s to force restrictions. Should these restrictions fail to minimize harm to public health, safety, and the environment, then even more stringent restrictions would be authorized by state officials. In a water shortage emergency, the governor is further permitted to force water sharing if the supplying system has excess water beyond their need.
On improving general state-wide efforts, Rep. Tarleton and Rep. Luebke further suggested that more public education and outreach to the public on water conservation was needed. Certainly, the public and the legislators have much to learn and do in order to prepare and manage the state’s precious water resources. HB 2499 is a welcome start. Please Support HB 2499. HB 2499 passed the third reading on the Senate floor yesterday. This afternoon, the bill was removed from the calendar, even after yesterday's unexpected caucus on the floor for amendments; but will be taken up as priority on Monday when the House meets again.
Support Stormwater Management Revisions. Stormwater regulations over this session have been rendered palatable enough to gain the “whole hearted” endorsement of the developers and general acceptance by coastal cities and municipalities. On Tuesday, SB 1967, formerly the “Disapprove Coastal Stormwater Bill” was replaced with the committee substitute, “Improve Coastal Stormwater Management,” which is the product of the series of eight negotiation meetings that began back in April. The environmental community supports the coastal stormwater compromise. The newest costal stormwater rules require stricter setback and drainage requirements for these 20 coastal counties; but some scientists and environmental regulators still think that this new rule is not enough. The environmental community believes more could have been done to protect our environment but recognizes that the “compromise” bill will protect the environment more than rules currently in place. The environmental community asks lawmakers to support the committee substitute of SB 1967. Further, the environmental community also encourages legislators oppose amendments that would upset the compromise reached at stakeholder meetings. Finally, legislators should reject efforts to disapprove or delay implementing the Coastal Stormwater Program.
We all have a responsibility to protect and enhance our state’s water quality. Chronic lowering of environmental standards and protections is a trend the State’s legislature should avoid at all costs. Great concern was expressed in the environmental community after the Honorables mentioned on Tuesday that the EMC’s authority might be repealed after, SB 1967 is voted on, to set coastal stormwater rules for a certain length of time. This pronouncement is disquieting for many outside of the legislature. If the EMC’s authority is tampered with, then those most experienced and knowledgeable on the impacts to state waters are effectively forced by the legislators to take the back seat to political considerations. Shouldn’t our water quality protection measures be based on pragmatic conservation approaches and sound science rather than political pandering?
Updates
Strengthen North Carolina's drought response.
SUPPORT H2499 (S1879)
Protect our coast from stormwater pollution.
SUPPORT the Committee Substitute for SB1967 (adopted 7/8/08)
Defend our shoreline from hardened structures.
OPPOSE S599
Stop global warming, start clean cars.
SUPPORT H 2526 and H1179(S1307)
The NC Common Agenda is endorsed by: Audubon NC / Conservation Council of NC / Environment NC / Environmental Defense Fund / NC Coastal Federation / NC Conservation Network / NC Sierra Club / Penderwatch & Conservancy / Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
Legislative Summaries
H838 Ban Incandescent Light Bulbs
This legislation would prohibit the sale of general service incandescent light bulbs in the state. Support.
H1134 Cleanup of Abandoned Manufactured Homes
This legislation would protect public health and the environment by encouraging counties to develop plans for deconstructing abandoned manufactured homes and removing reusable or recyclable components. The legislation would impose an environmental remediation tax on the sale of new and used manufactured homes to fund the deconstruction of abandoned manufactured homes. Support.
H1154 Oak Island/Erosion Setback Line
This legislation, which applies to the Town of Oak Island, alters setback rules in cases of beaches that have undergone renourishment programs. Altering the setback rules undermines sound planning principles and prudent coastal management rules that have been in place for some time. Oppose.
H1179/S1307 Clean Cars Program/Funds
This legislation would establish North Carolina's low emission vehicle program. Support.
H1611 Stormwater Requirements' cost to County/City
This legislation requires the ERC to prepare and submit a fiscal note to the county or city detailing the costs of meeting post-construction stormwater management standards. Oppose.
H1834 Local Government Economic Impact
This legislation expands the Local Government Fiscal Information Act to require an economic impact statement (EIS) rather than just a fiscal note, similar to the EIS used in the rulemaking process. This act effectively alters the procedures for all parties of local governments who expect to experience substantial economic impacts (of at least $3 million in a 12-month period) from the costs of meeting State regulations and rules. Oppose.
H1889 Present Use Value System Modifications
This legislation would provide property tax relief to landowners who manage their lands for wildlife and other conservation benefits. The House passed H1889 by an overwhelming vote in the 2007 session. This bill awaits the Senate's ruling. Support.
H1997 Economic Impact/Regulatory Legislation
This legislation would require economic impact statements (EIS) for all bills proposing regulatory changes, similar to he fiscal notes agencies must prepare during the rule making process. Oppose.
H2499 / S1879 Drought/Water Management Recommendations
This legislation requires that surface and groundwater withdrawls and transfers (between river basins) of greater than or equal to 100,000 gallons per day be registered with the Environmental Management Commission. Support.
H2506 Sedimentation Ctrl/Local Gov't Envorcement
This legislation would clarify the process for appeals from civil penalties assed by a local government that have established and approved erosion and sedimentation control programs. In keeping with a recommendation by the Environmental Review Commission, this legislation would provide local governments with such programs to issue stop work orders. Support.
H2526 Motor Vehicle Emissions Study
This legislation would direct the Environmental Review Commission, in consultation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, to study the costs and benefits--economic and environmental--of adopting the California motor vehicle emissions standards for the State. This act further directs that a report of findings, recommendations, and legislative proposals be submitted by 1 April 2009. Support.
H2675 Adopt-A-Trail Funds
This legislation would increase the funds for the Adopt-a-Trail Program within the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources by $892,000 for the 2008-2009 fiscal year. Support.
H2709 No Mountaintop Removal Coal Mining
This legislation would prohibit any public utility that operates a coal-fired generating unit in the State to generate electricity from purchasing or using coal extracted by mountaintop removal coal mining. This bill provides for cost recovery and appropriates funds for any utility's incremental costs of purchasing or using coal extracted by some method other than mountaintop removal coal mining. Support.
H2710 Income Tax Credit - Energy-Efficient Homes
This legislation would provide an income tax credit for builders of: state-certified energy-efficient homes, under the NC Healthy Build Homes Program, of $2,000; or the federally qualified energy-efficient home under the ENERGY STAR Program of $1,000. Support.
H2718 N.C. Green Business Fund
This legislation would change the NC Green Business Fund from a grant-making fund to a no-interest loan-making fund and would appropriate funds to the Department of Commerce for this purpose. Support.
H2720 Energy-Efficient State Motor Vehicle Fleets
This legislation would require every new passenger motor vehicle transferred to or purchasaed by the Department of Administration or by the Department of Transportation to have a fuel economy rating, as set by the U.S. EPA for the new vehicle's model year, in the top 10 percent for its class of vehicles. Support.
7/03/2008
Coal Power Plant Blocked, GA
Climate concerns halt coal plant
The US state of Georgia blocks construction of a new coal power plant based on concerns over carbon emissions.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7485936.stm
The US state of Georgia blocks construction of a new coal power plant based on concerns over carbon emissions.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7485936.stm
6/25/2008
Hansen on Oil Exec Culpability
http://www.juancole.com/
Scroll down and click on YouTube for "Real News."
Scroll down and click on YouTube for "Real News."
6/21/2008
Climate Action Plan to G8 Leaders
Business chiefs urge carbon curbs *A coalition of 99 companies hands a climate action plan to G8 leaders, asking for emission targets and global carbon trading.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7464517.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7464517.stm
6/02/2008
5/16/2008
World's Wildlife Lost
Wildlife populations 'plummeting'
Between a quarter and a third of the world’s wildlife has been lost since 1970, says the Living Planet Index.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/7403989.stm
Between a quarter and a third of the world’s wildlife has been lost since 1970, says the Living Planet Index.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/7403989.stm
5/04/2008
5/02/2008
4/30/2008
4/21/2008
Why Bother?
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/20/magazine/20wwln-lede-t.html?_r=2&ref=magazine&oref=slogin&oref=slogin
4/15/2008
China Now Top Carbon Polluter
China 'now top carbon polluter' *China has already overtaken the US as the world's biggest polluter, according to a new report by US scientists.Full story:http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/7347638.stm
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