Declare Your Independence from Toxic Fireworks Pollution

http://environment.about.com/od/healthenvironment/a/toxicfireworks.htm

Summary:
Perhaps is should come as no surprise that the fireworks displays that go on around the U.S every Fourth of July are still typically propelled by the ignition of gunpowder, a technological innovation that pre dates the American Revolution itself. And the fall out from these exhibitions includes a variety of toxic pollution that rain down on neighborhoods from coast to coast, often in violation of federal Clean Air Act standards.

Brief Response:
Depending on the effect sought fireworks produce smoke and dust that contain various heavy metals, sulfur and other noxious chemicals. Barium, for instance, is used to produce brilliant green colors in fireworks displays, despite being poisonous and radioactive

Control the Climate at Your Desk, Save Energy

http://ecogeek.org/component/content/article/3015

Summary:
New office buildings and even some old ones are becoming more green everyday. They have now invested in an AC unit that can be controlled in each room to minimize the companies energy costs by up to 50%. The people could control the AC by vent in their rooms turning them down or off it they were out of the room, or away from it for a while.

Brief Response:
More companies should do this to become greener and it is also benefits to the company for how much energy they save.

Florida: A Bad Winter for Slithering

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/17/us/17brfs-ABADWINTERFO_BRF.html?ref=earth

April 16, 2010

The New York Times

By The Associated Press

Brief Summary:

Up to fifty percent of Florida's pythons have been killed due to the harsh cold of this past winter, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Not one python has been caught since the state has allowed hunters to attempt this on state managed lands around the Everglades.

Short Response:

This cold winter could lead to take care of what hunters could not, which would be an unfortunate outcome for these pythons because it could eventually be a sign of leading to their extinction, at least in that state, if they cannot survive the winter of Florida.

At Upstate Campus, Saving Energy is Part of Dorm Life

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/17/nyregion/17ithaca.html?ref=earth

April 16, 2010

The New York Times

By Lisa W. Foderaro

Brief Summary:

At Ithaca College, two dormitories proudly wear the Energy Star label, being known for its embrace of all things sustainable. The residence halls have six-way zoned heating, energy efficient boilers, digitally controlled heating systems and ample weather stripping. Many students on campus post fliers and talk to other students with advice on how to make the positive changes.

Short Response:

Instead of it being someone telling you what to do such as an older person talking "at" you, the people in charge of helping make these changes are students at the college trying to influence other students without making any demands. This is the best approach possible because students would prefer it be that way rather than someone making orders at them.

Ontario Issues $8 Billion in Renewable Energy Contracts

http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/04/09/ontario-issues-8-billion-in-clean-energy-contracts/?ref=earth

By John Lorinc

April 9, 2010

The New York Times

Brief Summary:

$8 billion in new renewable energy deals was announced just recently by the Ontario government agency under the provinces feed-in tariff program. This includes 184 solar, hydro and landfill gas projects winning long term contracts which will provide a total of about 2,500 megawatts of green power.

Short Response:

This is good news for the environment, but provincial rate payers will end up spending over $300 more a year on their electricity bills, which i'm sure will raise controversy and make many people unhappy, but it is for the best ultimately.

Rule on Lead Safety Set to Take Effect

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/09/science/earth/09lead.html?ref=earth

April 8, 2010

By Mireya Navarro

The New York Times

Brief Summary:

A regulation which requires the construction company to help prevent lead poisoning of children is on track thanks to the Environmental Protection Agency. This occurs after more than two decades of delays and the regulation will take effect on April 22.

Short Response:

This is a positive decision and could potentially save many lives, now that the contractors will be trained and certified in lead safe work and containing their work areas which could help prevent other accidents from occuring.