Environmental News

Greentechmedia recently discussed the developments for environmental concern in the political landscape. Indeed, Obama’s historic oath last January 20, 2009, inspired hope across all industries, social classes, and even countries. This is no less true for those who count themselves among those who work for the preservation of the environment. With the approval of the $825 stimulus package that President Obama rallied for, many provisions included measures that will set America on the path to a greener future. Among these proposals are the federal incentives for solar power projects and wind power production. Mainly taking the form of investment tax credits being reconsidered in favor of rebates, this change will be a significant factor for companies to seriously start going green.

Cleantechnica enthusiastically reports the unveiling of the world’s toughest wind turbines. Through Germany’s 10 years of investing in wind power development, the first turbines designed specifically for offshore wind energy were created. Areva, a global player in the energy industry, designed waterproofed, light, and easy to install 5MW turbines that are calculated to provide enough energy for 5,000 homes. In the country’s first offshore wind project site, 45 kilometers off the island of Borkum, six turbines were put up by Areva to be completed sometime this summer of 2009.

Environmental Magazine online discusses how reengineering the grid system could very well be one of the most important technological changes to aid the cause of an environmentally concerned America. Creating the “smart grid" will ensure that energy is conserved and electricity is delivered faster. This system also looks at efficiently managing power by acquiring actual usage information to consider the peak periods and idle times. The power plants will then adjust production according to the data in order to minimize wasted power.

Time Magazine published one of the most alarming articles on the repercussions of climate change which most of us have not even considered. While it may be a common notion that harvests grow better in the tropical regions (versus those in winter seasons) then it should follow that a warming atmosphere will be beneficial to agriculture, right? Wrong. What is worse is that it will inextricably lead to the world’s hunger rates rising due to food shortage.

Treehugger remembers the tragic Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) trailer fiasco wherein formaldehyde fumes affected Katrina and Rita victims in 2005. This substance is listed as highly toxic and may be carcinogenic according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Industry and environmental affiliates are pointing out to EPA that formaldehyde regulation will not only be beneficial for the health of the populace and the environment, but will also help save billions for US taxpayers.