In the drought-stricken farm belt of southeastern Colorado, down-on-their-luck farmers and wide-eyed environmentalists alike are looking forward to the day when many more Americans derive their electricity from the wind, an ultimately renewable, pollution-free source of energy. And the state-funded Colorado Green Project is helping make this vision into a reality.
In yet another example of the dire state of the world’s oceans, the World Conservation Union announced last week that it will be adding 10 species of sharks and rays to its global "Red List" of endangered species. Researchers cite overfishing throughout the world’s oceans as well as soaring demand for shark fin in Asia as the primary culprits in the global decline of shark populations.
Electronics Recycling, Eco-Campuses and Corporate Accountability.
When driving in traffic, you breathe gases such as nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons at concentrations 10 times above normal ambient urban levels, according to a 1998 study conducted by California’s Air Resources Board (ARB).
The diaper debate, shrinking beaches and shingle recycling.
Fiber Risks, Recycling Rules and Reducing Ticks Are there any health risks involved with polyester clothing? —Amily Atwell, Dublin, OH Polyester has come a long way since leisure suits, and can now be found in everything from carpeting and totebags to artificial arteries. Because it’s strong, wrinkle-resistant and quick drying, it’s in just about every […]
I’ve heard that you can buy the "development rights" to rainforest land in order to protect it. How does one go about that? Several environmental organizations sponsor programs that allow the conservation-minded to protect development rights in the rainforest.
I’ve heard that leaving a light on for a given length of time may use less energy than turning it off and on again. Is this a myth? —Allison Nelson, Glen, NH Leaving a light on to save energy is not a bright idea. This myth arose in the 1940s when energy was cheap and […]
What are the pros and cons of juice pasteurization? —Sabrina Coolidge, Portland, OR Some consumers are skeptical of pasteurization because they are concerned that the heat treatment will compromise the nutritional value of juice. According to Odwalla, a natural juice company, there is an approximate 30 percent nutrient loss during pasteurization. But the U.S. Food […]
Do airplanes contribute significantly to air pollution? —Neil Gladstone, New York, NY Airports cause as much pollution as power plants, incinerators and oil refineries, although they are subject to less regulation, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). The hundreds of thousands of airplanes taking off, landing, taxiing and idling each day across the […]
