Daily Updates - Rochester, NY area

RochesterEnvironment.com

Analysis of the environmental news in our area

Connecting the dots on Rochester’s environment. Find out what’s going on environmentally in our area—and why you should care. For all Daily Updates going back to 1998, go to Update Archives.

* Please read this carefully, it's not the usual Yada Yada

Local Media Doing their Job on Our Environment?

Coming up with a policy or an evaluation on the state of one's environment is impossible without data. This truism is so obvious that it need not be expressed if it were not a fact that so many engage in both without enough information to support either.

The government at the local, state, and federal levels does not have enough money (for whatever reasons) to pay for all the independent, objective and thorough studies needed to fully understand all an area’s flora and fauna and their interrelations, their ecology. Neither do universities; neither do environmental organizations--though all cover various pieces of the puzzle that is our complex environment.

There's one group left who can and should help the public evaluate the state of our environment - the media. Besides making a profit, the media's job historically and manifestly is to inform the public on all critical matters, which, I submit, includes the state of our environment. We need a healthy environment to survive and to do so we need a timely and complete picture of it. We, the public, need information to be able to form evaluations and policies on our environment, so we can anticipate dangers, decide on solutions, and choose responsible leaders. Without a media with trained environmental reporters, a vital ingredient in the equation of a sustainable environment goes missing. Scientists cannot see all that occurs in the environment despite their expertise.

The government won't notice danger signals, except those they are predisposed to see. Environmentalists would have little to evaluate the health of our environment and the roles of those responsible. And the public, without a media fully tuned to the environment, will think everything is going fine until a disaster indicates a tipping point and the aftermath splashes across the headlines.

This is all to say that in recent years it is becoming increasingly obvious that because of financial and other extraneous considerations, our local media is experiencing a dearth of trained dedicated environmental reporters. Only these professionals, who have the time and training to gather all the information from all the participants in our environment, can fill this critical role in our society. Without them, what we get is a disparate snapshot of events going on in our environment that may or may not spell disaster. A dedicated environmental reporter in each of our print and visual media would have the necessary, continual contacts to provide us with the depth and perspective that environmental stories need. If our local media were doing their job, we could be anticipating environmental problems, instead of trying to catch up to long-standing realities .

SEARCH: Use search engine below to find anything posted since 1998.

Daily Updates: Saturday, May 19, 2012

These are the daily recordings of what I believe are important indicators of our Rochester-area environment --since 1998. For all Daily Updates, go to Update Archives.

5/19/2012 - Climate Change predications include whacky weather that will affect NYS farmers and the public will continually have to decide on helping them out. We need Climate action plans to deal with this looming issue. NY fruit farmers to appeal for federal disaster aid | Innovation Trail For many western New Yorkers, the stretch of 70-degree March days and the cold snap that followed were little more than a quirk, another postcard tidbit or Internet meme of the ever-unpredictable weather patterns in Rochester. But for area fruit farmers, the peculiar conditions were nothing short of disastrous. “The worst year I’ve ever seen,” said Martin Schutt, owner of Schutt’s Apple Mill in Webster. “I just don’t know what we’re going to do. Cherries, peaches and apples, we have a total loss on all of them.” (May 17, 2012) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York | democratandchronicle.com [more on Climate Change in our area]
5/19/2012 - Because of the increase in heat waves and other extreme events that come with Climate Change we need to ramp up our public health actions Hot summer means more pollution TORONTO - A warm winter followed by what’s expected to be a hotter than normal summer will likely increase both air and water pollution which will in turn pose potential health risks, experts warn. “The urban air pollution will be the worst. There will be smog brought about by sunlight, emissions from people’s cars and the coal industry in the U.S.,” said Prof. Miriam Diamond, a pollution expert from the University of Toronto’s Centre of Environment. Read it on Global News: Hot summer means more pollution (May 17, 2012) Global News [more on Climate Change in our area]
5/19/2012 - India's dam plans anger Pakistan, symbolise global water woes ITS three great basins - the Indus, the Ganges and the Brahmaputra - are the most densely populated area in the world. The Ganges alone supports half a billion people. Seventy per cent of South Asia's 1.5 billion people live in farming families, and depend on the water of those basins for their survival. That number grows by 25 million every year. (May19, 2012) The Age - Business, World & Breaking News | Melbourne, Australia
5/19/2012 - Interesting experiment: What’s the world going to look like because we aren’t addressing Climate Change? Hint: it will be hot. Australian project simulates effects of runaway climate change | Environment | guardian.co.uk Multimillion-dollar study subjects bushland to heightened CO2 levels and altered rainfall patterns | An Australian university has embarked upon an ambitious project – hailed as the first of its kind in the world – to simulate how the environment would cope with runaway climate change. The decade-long study, at the University of Western Sydney's Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, will subject Australian bushland to heightened CO2 levels and altered rainfall patterns consistent with a "business as usual" global increase in greenhouse gases. (May 19, 2012) Latest US news, world news, sport and comment from the Guardian | guardiannews.com | The Guardian
5/19/2012 - Being green is going to be increasingly more difficult in the future, as the carbon footprints and emissions from burning drugs will have to be factored in. Everything we do has vast implications to our environment. Only with a sense of priorities, what must be salvaged and sustained, will be our future guide. Trash Can May Be Greenest Option For Unused Drugs : Shots - Health Blog : NPR American homes are filled with unused prescription drugs. Each year we squirrel away 200 million pounds of pharmaceuticals we don't need anymore, according to some estimates. Left in medicine cabinets, those drugs can end up in the hands of children or others who really shouldn't be taking them. Proper and timely disposal can avert those problems. Flushing or trashing drugs has been the norm for decades, but take-back programs have been springing up at pharmacies and police departments lately. The Drug Enforcement Administration has organized four nationwide take-back events since 2010. The most recent, in late April, collected more than 500,000 pounds of unwanted medications. (May 18, 2012) Environment : NPR
5/18/2012 - ACTION: Don’t want any Fracking going on in Monroe County, sign here: Environment Petition: Prohibit All Fracking Related Activities on Monroe County Properties, NY | Change.org "The magnitude of New York State’s upcoming decision to permit and regulate high-volume, slick-water, horizontal hydraulic fracturing (fracking) demands immediate attention and action by our County Legislature to ensure self-determination and the health and safety of our community. "
5/17/2012 - Linking NYS agriculture and Climate Change: We’re still not there yet. This report from the STATE OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND MARKETS on Department Testimony to Assembly Environmental Committee on Invasive Species is interesting because it hints that maybe humans are responsible for the invasive species problem in New York and perhaps even Climate Change. Well, maybe the Climate Change link is a leap. “Regardless of the source” is really vague and non-committal. That’s too bad because according to most predictions about invasive species in New York State Climate Change will exacerbate this issue. Invasive species are going to eat up a lot of our NYS food crops because many of these species that invade New York State’s environment will thrive in a warmer climate and out-compete endemic species. more...
5/17/2012 - Chance to write an essay about a critical environmental issue that is being overlooked by the media and earn some bucks Essay Contest 2012 'Essay Contest for High School Students Winner earns $100 plus publication of essay! Are you a high school student or recent 2012 graduate in the Rochester Region who is concerned about the environment? Here’s a chance to win $100 plus publication of your writing. The Rochester Regional Group of Sierra Club is running an essay contest for high school students or recent graduates (age 18 or less) aimed at addressing the most critical environmental problem of our age – climate change. Write an essay on the following topic: Climate change is a vital topic which should be addressed in election debates. ' From Rochester NY Regional Group Sierra Club | Sierra Club
5/17/2012 - Let New York State be like Vermont and ban Fracking and not be like Pennsylvania with all their Fracking problems: VIDEO: Vermont Bans Fracking | The Official Website of the Governor of Vermont "Wednesdsay, May 16 - 4:30 p.m. - Today, Governor Shumlin signed H. 484, making Vermont the first state in the nation to ban fracking! Watch the video below. "
5/17/2012 - Two years in a row Rochester makes Bicycling magazine's top 50 Bicycle Friendly Cities list. America's Most Bicycle-Friendly Cities | Bicycling Magazine "To prepare this list, we referenced the Bicycling and Walking in the United States 2010 Benchmarking Report, prepared by the Alliance for Biking and Walking; the League of American Bicyclists' Bicycle Friendly America project; data from Mediamark Research, Inc., Dun & Bradstreet and The Nielsen Company; and interviews with national and local advocates, bike shops and other experts. " Tour of California, Road Bike Reviews, Cycling Gear, Maintenance, Fitness, Training | Bicycling Magazine
5/16/2012 - Ice loss on the Great Lakes, as predicted by local Climate Change studies, will have a profound effect on our region’s future. Read: Continued ice loss on the Great Lakes may cause widespread change in ecosystems | Great Lakes Echo
5/16/2012 - Because most American’s still don’t get it on Climate Change the Union of Concerned Scientists have started some new to educate the public: "In today's hyper-partisan political environment, the public and decision makers often ignore independent science and technical analysis in favor of assertions from ideologues and thinly veiled spokespeople for powerful vested interests. This trend toward deliberate misinformation and neglect of science not only threatens the principles of transparency and accountability on which our democracy is based, but it often puts the health and safety of Americans at risk. To help meet this grave challenge, the Union of Concerned Scientists is launching the Center for Science and Democracy to strengthen the American democracy by restoring the essential role of science, evidence-based decision making, and constructive debate as a means to improve the health, security, and prosperity of all Americans. UCS will launch the new Center for Science and Democracy at two events that will feature interactive panel discussions with leading thinkers on the role science plays in a functioning democracy. RSVP to watch the East Coast or West Coast launch events."
5/16/2012 - Don’t forget increasing bicycling as Transportation will reduce GHG. Check out the incredible list of events of Bike Week in Rochester, NY. City of Rochester | ROC the Bike! "Creating a Bicycle Friendy Community in Rochester Rochester is implementing a Bicycle Master Plan that includes an effort to have our city designated a "Bicycle Friendly Community" by the League of American Bicyclists. To guide this effort, the Bicycle Master Plan was released in 2011. As part of that plan the city is working to enhance bicycle facilities and to promote bicycle riding in the city. "
5/16/2012 - From 350.org "When we launched our campaign to end fossil fuel subsidies last week, we didn't quite know what to expect. Well, we've got good news: in just a few days, you were joined by over 30,000 people who have signed onto our call to action -- including thousands of people who have never before been a part of the growing 350.org network. We launched this campaign with a powerful rally in DC that brought together environmental groups, Congressman Keith Ellison, 350.org founder Bill McKibben, Senator Bernie Sanders, and many more. Check out the fantastic video from the campaign launch, then share it far and wide with just a few clicks: www.350.org/subsidies-launch "
5/16/2012 - Interested in learning more about Climate Change and teaching others? Here’s educational material For Educators from United States Global Change Research Program “The U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) coordinates and integrates federal research on changes in the global environment and their implications for society. The USGCRP began as a presidential initiative in 1989 and was mandated by Congress in the Global Change Research Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-606), which called for "a comprehensive and integrated United States research program which will assist the Nation and the world to understand, assess, predict, and respond to human-induced and natural processes of global change."” You can learn about the Climate Change coming to the Northeast and get educational materials, include a Toolkit Home (which has a great 12-minute video on Climate Change and Wildlife and Wildlands for your kids) with a section on Great Lakes.
5/15/2012 - It’s Bike Week in Rochester, NY. Find out about and join efforts to increase active transportation. Lot’s going on: It’s Bike Week! | Rochester Cycling Alliance "Bike Week is upon us, and RochesterBikeWeek.blogspot.com is here to tell you all about it. As of this writing, here’s the event schedule. But check there for updates! For more information on Rochester’s Bike Week, feel free to contact one of Bike Week’s coordinators listed in the sidebar. We are happy to help with any and all bike week questions whether they be event information, promotion, volunteers, or just helping you get out on your bike this year! "
5/15/2012 - A companion book to RochesterEnvironment.com written in 2005 still holds true. Now, “We Don’t Get It!” is an E-Book on Amazon.com and Kindle Amazon.com: We Don't Get It! eBook: Frank Regan: Books
5/15/2012 - Accommodating bicycles as transportation: This news items shows how bicyclists get together and make a reasonable demand and the state DOT finding as way to make room on a highway project to accommodate bicycles. Over time this could save a lot of lives and greenhouse gases going into our atmosphere. Can’t we do this on more highways? NCPR News - DOT finds room for bikes on busy Adirondack highway (05/14/12)
5/14/2012 - ACTION This is important. As tax credits dwindle for wind power, the fossil fuels, which have made more money since money was invented, are getting big public bailouts. Let’s end that: Petition - Support the End Polluter Welfare Act: Bernie Sanders - U.S. Senator for Vermont "At a time when we have a record debt, Congress should not continue to give away taxpayer money to the established, highly profitable fossil fuel industry. Fossil fuels are subsidized at nearly 6 times the rate of renewable energy. From 2002 to 2008, the US Government gave the mature fossil fuel industry over $72 billion in subsidies, while investments in the emerging renewable industry totaled $12.2 billion. " from Bernie Sanders - U.S. Senator for Vermont
5/14/2012 - Many of us in Rochester, NY joined Connect the Dots to highlight the plight of local fruit farmers and whacky weather due to Climate Change: "One week ago today, the world stood up to Connect the Dots on climate impacts. 5/5/12 was a beautiful, inspiring, occasionally heartbreaking day. It's hard to describe what it felt like to watch the world come together like that—but this video comes close. If you haven't seen it yet, please take 90 seconds to watch and spread it around: www.climatedots.org/watch "
5/14/2012 - Citizen scientists, critical in addressing Climate Change Some of the solutions that will help us adapt to and mitigate Climate Change are data collection for filling in knowledge gaps on specific issues threatening our environment and educating the public. So rather than focus on proving what 13 departments of our government (see below) already know about the science behind Climate Change, Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of the Interior, Department of State, Department of Transportation, Environmental Protection Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Science Foundation, Smithsonian Institution, United State Agency for International Development the new “The National Global Change Research Plan: 2012-2021” just released in April by the U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) describes the threats that the various departments will be addressing and how to assess and disseminate that information internally between departments and externally to the public and other nations. more...
5/14/2012 - Pretty galling that Wind Power get tax credit stripped in Dec when "there is no end to taxpayers providing massive subsidies to hugely profitable fossil fuel corporations": Wind industry's future in question as tax credit nears end | Democrat and Chronicle | democratandchronicle.com The end of a key federal tax incentive for the wind industry could put a damper on much-needed wind turbine replacement efforts — known as repowering — just as many of the region's iconic windmills are hitting the upper limit of their 30-year lifespan. The credit provides wind developers a tax break of 2.2 cents per kilowatt-hour for the power they generate from utility-scale wind projects for the first 10 years of production. It's set to expire Dec. 31. (May 14, 2012) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York | democratandchronicle.com [more on Wind Power in our area]
5/11/2012 - Is our NYS Public Health Department doing its job in a time of warming? Are they connecting the dots between Climate Change and vector-borne diseases? Many of these vector-borne diseases (including Lyme disease, and West Nile Virus) are predicted to increase in NYS because of Climate Change, as mentioned in many area Climate studies. It would be nice if the NYS Department of Health would start educating the public on this, as this too is a recommendation of many Climate studies. Instead the NYS Department of Health does not connect-the-dots on Climate Change and vector-borne diseases when it publicizes information on misquote-driven diseases: more...
5/11/2012 - Vertical Fracking vs. Horizontal Fracking: The Environment Report: Interview: DEQ On The Safety of Fracking Hydraulic fracturing – or fracking – is a method of drilling for natural gas. Drillers use fracking to get to the gas that’s trapped in tight shale rock formations below the water table. Fracking pumps a mixture of water, sand and chemicals into a well under high pressure to force open the rock and extract the gas. (You can check out this in-depth series by Michigan Watch's Lester Graham) In Michigan, drillers have used the fracking method for more than 50 years and the state regulates the industry. But they’ve been drilling vertical wells. (May 10, 2012) The Environment Report: Home
5/11/2012 - Important essay by Dr. James Hansen, our country’s top Climate scientist, on Climate Change. The message that our atmosphere is warming up is a message Dr. Hansen has been giving to the public for over twenty years and because little has been done about stopping greenhouse gases going into our atmosphere is become dearer. Admits all the voices we hear, the voice of Dr. Hansen is one we should be listening to. Game Over for the Climate - NYTimes.com GLOBAL warming isn’t a prediction. It is happening. That is why I was so troubled to read a recent interview with President Obama in Rolling Stone in which he said that Canada would exploit the oil in its vast tar sands reserves “regardless of what we do.” If Canada proceeds, and we do nothing, it will be game over for the climate. (May 9, 2012) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
5/11/2012 - Lean about Solar Power Jobs and an energy source that is good for our environment. NEW YORK SOLAR JOBS DAY Buffalo - May 24th, 12:00pm to 3:00pm at Cornell’s Industrial and Labor Relations School, 237 Main St., Suite 1200 Buffalo, NY. In partnership with local New York organizations, the NY Solar Jobs Coalition (www.nysolarjobs.com), which comprises an extensive group of diverse stakeholders, will host NY Solar Jobs Day events across the state. Please join fellow citizens, the local solar workforce, public and private leaders, local organizations, and the NY Solar Jobs Coalition to discuss the benefits and opportunities of a thriving solar energy economy in New York State. Come learn about solar jobs, going solar and the New York Solar Jobs Act – a key piece of legislation that is sure to make New York a national solar leader.
5/10/2012 - Fracking in NYS; it’s going to get (more) political. Have some gas, Mr. President | 520 – An Environmental Blog | Rochester Democrat and Chronicle#more-2659 "President Obama is traveling to our state’s capital city later this morning to give a little speech at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering at the University at Albany. " (May 8, 2012) 520 – An Environmental Blog | Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
5/10/2012 - ACTION on Fracking: "Sign up for transportation to the All-Star Concert Event in Albany on May 15th! New Yorkers around the state will converge in Albany on May 15th for a rally and concert. The rally will be on the West Capital Lawn from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. The concert starts at 7:00 p.m. at The Egg, Empire State Plaza. The concert may sell out soon so be sure to get your tickets!** New Yorkers Against Fracking is coordinating buses, vans and carpools from around the state. In order to gauge interest, we want to know if you would like to take advantage of shared transportation on May 15th. Sign up below to let us know you're interested in transportation, and someone will be in touch when we have more details! " -from Food & Water Watch
5/10/2012 - Greentopia Will Be Hosting Green Drinks for the Month of May! Green Drinks is a monthly environmental networking event open to anybody that would like to attend. We'll be hosting it with our partner Sunnking! The event will be taking place at 6pm on May 17th at the Greentopia and Friends of the GardenAerial headquarters. Our office is located at 81 Browns Race, Rochester, NY 14618. Light snacks will be provided by Freshwise Catering and Sunnking will be auctioning off some of the electronics that they've collected throughout the year! We have a limited amount of space so if you'd like to attend, please RSVP by contacting us at 585-287-5560 or sending an email to jennifer@greentopiafest.com.
5/10/2012 - The future belongs to our youth, but what are we giving them? Climate scientists gather on May1, 2012 to discuss Our Government and the Case for Young People: Hearing in the DC District Court and its science rationale Scientific Case for Avoiding Dangerous Climate Change to Protect Young People and Nature "We seek to clarify and quantify the urgency of phasing out fossil fuel emissions for the sake of avoiding disastrous climate change. We use Earth's paleoclimate history to determine the levels of global temperature that are consistent with maintaining a planet resembling that to which civilization is adapted. We use a tested carbon cycle model and a simple representation of global temperature and climate sensitivity consistent with paleoclimate data to determine the fossil fuel emission reductions that will be required to restore Earth's energy balance, which is the basic requirement for stabilizing climate. We also discuss the moral issues, our obligations to young people, future generations, less developed nations, indigenous people, and our fellow species. "
5/09/2012 - Good article about the difficulty of informing the public in Climate Change and what methods are being tried. Google Fellows Seek to Fine Tune Climate Communication | Climate Central Communicating climate science information is no easy task — take it from me, I've been working at it for at least a decade now. The science is complicated, and it's all too easy to present it in boring formats, with the message of why climate change matters getting lost somewhere between the terms "anthropogenic warming" and "solar irradiance." Add in the extremely polarizing political environment surrounding this issue, and you have a major challenge. (May 9, 2012) Climate Change | Climate Central
5/09/2012 - Learn about historical data on the sensitivity of Earth’s Climate from our foremost climate scientists Climate Sensitivity Estimated From Earth's Climate History James E. Hansen and Makiko Sato NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies and Columbia University Earth Institute, New York ABSTRACT Earth's climate history potentially can yield accurate assessment of climate sensitivity. Imprecise knowledge of glacial-to-interglacial global temperature change is the biggest obstacle to accurate assessment of the fast-feedback climate sensitivity, which is the sensitivity that most immediately affects humanity. Our best estimate for the fast-feedback climate sensitivity from Holocene initial conditions is 3 ± 0.5°C for 4 W/m2 CO2 forcing (68% probability) . Slow feedbacks, including ice sheet disintegration and release of greenhouse gases (GHGs) by the climate system, generally amplify total Earth system climate sensitivity. Slow feedbacks make Earth system climate sensitivity highly dependent on the initial climate state and on the magnitude and sign of the climate forcing, because of thresholds (tipping points) in the slow feedbacks. It is difficult to assess the speed at which slow feedbacks will become important in the future, because of the absence in paleoclimate history of any positive (warming) forcing rivaling the speed at which the human-caused forcing is growing. - from Dr. James E. Hansen
5/09/2012 - Join program to clean up beaches and collect data for our environment: Join the Alliance for the Great Lakes of an Introductory Adopt-a-Beach™ Training at Webster Park on Wednesday, May 9th at 6:00 pm! Learn the skills and techniques that allow volunteer Adopt-a-Beach™ teams across all five Great Lakes to collect data that is making a positive impact for our lakes! Information collected by volunteers is being shared with local, state and regional beach health officials and is used by the Alliance to help protect and preserve our coastal areas. During the Introductory training, Alliance staff will provide a program overview along with tips and methods for data collection. Data is gathered through litter monitoring and collection, scientific based observations, and simple citizen science tests. These trainings are also a perfect opportunity to learn about the Adopt-a-Beach™ online system and anything new offered through the program. For more information about the training and the Adopt-a-Beach™ program, please visit www.greatlakes.org/aabtraining. This year’s training in Monroe County will take place at the Parkview Lodge of Webster Park (255 Holt Road, Webster, NY 14508) at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, May 9th.
5/08/2012 - ACTION: Tired of meteorologists failing to connect the dots between Climate Change and our daily weather? Do something about it. Take action: Forecast the Facts WE NEED OUR TV METEOROLOGISTS TO REPORT THE FACTS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. According to a recent national survey, more than half of TV weather reporters don’t believe in human-induced climate change. Meanwhile, their viewers are facing unprecedented climate-change induced heat waves, droughts, and flooding.
5/08/2012 - Learn about our Rochester, NY area environment with programs for the whole family: "Join us for a Family Walk in Washington Grove! May 12: Birds of the Grove, 8:30 a.m. Each year, the Flower City Looking Good program series packs in dozens of events and activities for all ages that showcase, immerse, and involve residents and visitors in Rochester's superb natural and built environments. Nestled behind the reservoir atop Cobb’s Hill is a beautiful grove of giant old oaks, named Washington Grove after our first President. A dedicated coalition of people and neighborhood groups is collaborating with The Friends of Washington Grove and the City to restore and protect the Grove. All walks are Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. Meet on the east side of the reservoir where street parking begins on the one-way circle around the reservoir. (585) 234-1056 for more information UPCOMING HIKES May 12: Birds in the Washington Grove: Peter Debes will identify songsters, explain why they come to the Grove and how to secure them for the next generation. Binoculars recommended. Rain Date: May 15 June 9: Bugs ‘n Critters in the Cobbs Hill Forest: A family walk welcoming children ages 3-9 with adult. Join a naturalist of the Friends of Washington Grove. Learn how to recognize eight different kinds of soil animals and discover just what they are doing in the forest. Aug. 25: An Old Growth Forest in the City: Enjoy the tranquility and mystery of this beautiful old growth forest. Learn to recognize these giant trees and find out what is being done to protect them and remove invasive species. For more information about the Flower City Looking Good series of events please visit: City of Rochester | Flower City Looking Good--History and Nature Walks "
5/08/2012 - ACTION: Help monitor our community's air quality: "The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is currently accepting applications from community groups and citizens for a new Community Air Screen Program. DEC invites you, or a representative of your group, to participate in a teleconference to answer questions you may have about the new program. Applications must be postmarked or emailed by midnight, May 24, 2012. What: Teleconference on Community Air Screen Program, which provides air monitoring equipment and training to community groups and individuals When: Wednesday, May 16, at 3:30 - 4:30 pm Toll free Call-in Number: (866) 394-2346 Access Code: 1498311353 Please RSVP to Arturo Garcia-Costas (axgarcia@gw.dec.state.ny.us) via email by Close of Business, Tuesday, May 15, 21st. This new program is funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). DEC has launched this community-based toxic air pollutant screening program in order to learn more about local air quality concerns. Please go to Community Air Screen Program - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation to review the application, the program, and frequently asked questions. For general questions regarding the program, please contact Joan Kennedy via email at CAS@gw.dec.state.ny.us or by phone at (518) 402-8044. Sincerely, Arturo Garcia-Costas Strategic Partnerships, Outreach, and Education NYSDEC Office of Environmental Justice 718-482-7287 "
5/08/2012 - Bicycling as transportation, which will help us adapt to Climate Change by not burning fossil fuel to get around, is ramping up in Rochester, NY. City of Rochester | ROC the Bike! "Creating a Bicycle Friendy Community in Rochester Rochester is implementing a Bicycle Master Plan that includes an effort to have our city designated a "Bicycle Friendly Community" by the League of American Bicyclists. To guide this effort, the Bicycle Master Plan was released in 2011. As part of that plan the city is working to enhance bicycle facilities and to promote bicycle riding in the city. "
5/08/2012 - Take ACTION on Fracking: SIGN THE PETITION TO PROHIBIT FRACKING RELATED ACTIVITIES ON MONROE COUNTY PROPERTIES! "Please join us in signing the online petition urging the County Executive and Legislature to prohibit fracking and related activities in Monroe County! (It's best if signatories reside in Monroe County.) Click here to sign the petition and forward to others: http://www.change.org/petitions/prohibit-fracking-in-monroe-county-ny If you'd like to obtain signatures in person from members of your groups, houses of worship, neighborhood, etc., the petition is attached. Environmental Advocates of New York reviewed 100 of the 6628 CURRENTLY ACTIVE gas wells across New York State and found that “New York is not safely monitoring the transport, treatment, or disposal of gas drilling waste, and based on the proposals under review, the state is not ready to provide responsible oversight of the millions of gallons of wastewater high-volume fracking will dump on our doorstep, if Governor Cuomo decides to permit it,” said Katherine Nadeau, Water & Natural Resources Director, Environmental Advocates of New York. “We’re calling on the Governor to close the hazardous waste loophole for drilling waste, require that new measures to protect New York from high-volume fracking apply to all fracking operations, prohibit sewage plants from accepting drilling waste, and ban road spreading.” Here's the link to Environmental Advocates' press release: http://www.eany.org/news/press-releases/424-fracking-wastewater-report Here's the link to their report OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND: http://www.eany.org/images/Reports/outofsight_finalweb.pdf Thank you all for signing and sharing the Petition! And for those who've already signed on line or on the hard copy, please forgive the duplication. Anna Sears and Nedra Harvey R-CAUSE (Rochesterians Concerned About Unsafe Shale-gas Extraction) http://www.r-cause.net/ "
5/08/2012 - Wouldn’t a program for getting more solar power into NYS, especially for low-income families, be better than Fracking? Solar Power – A Reality for Low-Income Californians "LOS ANGELES - Solar power is becoming a reality for some of California's low-income families. A non-profit organization is bringing the energy-saving benefits of the sun to those who need it the most by holding solar block parties to raise money. Those events helped pay for a solar electric system recently installed on Ivan Lopez's Fresno home. He says his electric bills have been slashed in half, and he's helping the environment. " (May 7, 2012 Public News Service
5/08/2012 - Presidential elections 2012 – The Big Secret I’ve been reading many, many Climate Change reports for the last year, but the new “The National Global Change Research Plan: 2012-2021” by the U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) is the most impressive of all. Not because of its clever language or witty style but because 13 major departments of the US government helped shape our country’s ten-year response to Climate Change and compacted everything into to a very readable 152 pages. These departments understand Climate Change: Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of the Interior, Department of State, Department of Transportation, Environmental Protection Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Science Foundation, Smithsonian Institution, United State Agency for International Development. more....
5/08/2012 - Climate Change will affect the timing of migratory birds, insects, and animals—therefore on plants. Climate Change | The Migratory Connectivity Project "Issues related to global climate change now permeate every aspect of our lives. This leaves scientists scrambling to understand how changing climates are impacting major ecological phenomena such as where animals breed, spend the winter and the pathways they take along the way. For example, changes in climatic conditions have rendered many migratory birds at tremendous risk throughout their annual cycle due to extreme declines in precipitation on wintering grounds. In addition, warmer temperatures on breeding areas are sending distributions of some species further north or higher in altitude. A recent estimate for North American birds gave an average range extension of 60 km/year further north. " from The Migratory Connectivity Project | Advancing the science of global animal movements and connectivity by promoting the research and conservation of species throughout the annual cycle.
5/05/12 - Important sustainability conference coming up in June at Alfred University: Sustainability Conference: Innovations in Technical Education to Advance Sustainability "Sustainability Conference – Register now for $180 June 14 to June 16, 2012 Register Now Conference Schedule Innovations in Technical Education to Advance Sustainability The primary purpose of the conference is to bring together technical education practitioners and scholars to present cases, concepts, or ideas that advance, or have the potential to advance, sustainability through innovative educational practice. This includes presentations and tours on these subjects including the following: · Sustainable Community Development in the Finger Lakes Region · Providing Under-represented Students with Access to Sustainability ·Global Energy Management ·Funding Sustainable Education Initiatives · Partnership Approaches to Renewable Energy and Sustainability Education · Implementing Clean Energy Training into Existing Programs at Community Colleges and Industry Apprentice Programs "
5/05/2012 - Join in a conversation about Fracking from your home on May 9th at noon: "As the debate over industrial gas drilling called hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking” intensifies, it is vital that New York’s leaders and residents are presented with all relevant information. That's why our crackerjack staff at Environmental Advocates of New York have been working diligently to provide our members and supporters with the facts. While you may know about the about the thousands of gallons of water, salt, sand, and chemicals it takes to frack a gas well, you may not know what happens to the fracking wastewater that is left behind. We do. Join us Wednesday, May 9, for a webinar that will shed light on what our state leaders propose to do with fracking wastewater. Our Water & Natural Resources Director, Katherine Nadeau, will walk you through her NEW report on fracking. WHAT: Fracking wastewater webinar WHEN: Wednesday, May 9, at NOON WHERE:At your computer HOW: Click here to register" from ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCATES OF NEW YORK
5/05/2012 - A must listen if you missed this year's Rochester NY Regional Group Sierra Club's forum 14 Annual Sierra Club Forum "Our Water's Fragile Future" Check it out: 1370 Connection: Featured Audio - powered by FeedBurner 1370 Connection: Attorney James Olson Posted: Thu, 19 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT Play Now Attorney James Olson joins us in advance of an evening talk in Rochester about the law and hydro-fracking.
5/05/2012 - Take action for our environment, curb your car: "Curb Your Car Week, May 13-19, 2012 *Find one or more trips to leave your car home that week: to school, work, piano lessons, grocery store, or anywhere. *Bike, Walk, Bus, Carpool, Telecommute, Combine Trips *Register for free at ColorBrightonGreen.org, and then report your miles saved after May19. (All by email) *Open to all, don’t need to live in Brighton. *We will calculate total miles, gallons of gas, and pounds of CO2 saved, and announce the grand total. (By Email) *Prizes will be awarded to high mileage savers, and randomly to participants. *Cut Global Warming: Cut Air Pollution: Increase Energy Independence! Have fun! Enjoy a community of bikers and walkers all over Rochester for one week. Then, find out how fun it is, and how much money you save in gas and parking, and keep on doing it! "
5/05/2012 - President Obama releases updated 2012-2012 Climate Action plan. Who knew in this election year? Media, what is Romney’s plan? Somehow I missed that President and presidential candidate Obama has been diligently working on an updated Climate Action plan? What about Romney? What was the media coverage, as this was released just in April 17th of this year? I read the Global Climate Change Impacts in the US (2009) but the new report by the US government got right by me. What was I doing that day? What was the media doing? The US is having a major election for the president of the US and billions are being spent to fill the public’s mind full of all kinds of nonsense but a story about the President putting out a major update on what needs to be done on Climate Change get buried. Very interesting. I’m sure I’m missing something. Administration Releases 10-Year Global Change Strategic Plan The Obama Administration today released a 10-year strategic plan for research related to global change, identifying priorities that will help state and local governments, businesses, and communities prepare for anticipated changes in the global environment, including climate change, in the decades ahead. more...
5/04/2012 - One green roof on Rochester, NY City Hall is good, but it does not a Climate Change action plan make. Sneak peek: Rochester City Hall's new green roof | Innovation Trail The city of Rochester just completed work on its first ever "green roof." The roof of City Hall's Building B is now home to 8,700 square feet of succulent plants. "It's basically for storm water management," says Anne Spaulding, the city's sustainability manager, during a rooftop tour. "All of the rainwater - instead of running into the storm system - is consumed by the plants on the roof." (May 4, 2012) Innovation Trail [more on Climate Change in our area]
5/04/2012 - Need to see evidence of our planet changing because of Climate Change? Check out: Climate Change: Vital Signs of the Planet "Global Climate Change is produced by the Earth Science Communications Team at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory/California Institute of Technology "
5/04/2012 - Climate Change, the military, and politics: It is remarkable to me that the military understands the grave threat Climate Change, but the issue is too toxic for the media to discuss as we elect a president. Secretary of Defense on Climate, Foresight and the National Interest - NYTimes.com It’s worth noting Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta’s remarks on energy, climate and security last night at an Environmental Defense Fund event honoring the Defense Department for its work on the intersection of these issues. Here’s an excerpt: (May 3, 2012) Natural Resources and the Environment - Dot Earth Blog - NYTimes.com
5/04/2012 - Regardless of how New York City’s PlaNYC 2030 is doing, which is in part an attempt to “combat Climate Change,” at least NYC has a plan and is acting: PlaNYC Turns 5 and My How It's Grown! | New York League of Conservation Voters In December 2006, at an event hosted by NYLCV at the Queens Museum of Art, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg delivered a major speech outlining sustainability challenges and goals for the City of New York through the year 2030 (View the video) (May 2, 2012) [more on Climate Change in our area]
5/04/2012 - How are the bottoms of our Finger Lakes doing? The Value of Bathymetric Data | Happenings "Bathymetry is the measurement and charting of the water depths of lakes and oceans (Jackson, 1997, Glossary of Geology). It is critical for safe boating and navigation. It is also fundamental to all aspects of limnology, the scientific study of lakes and lake processes, because it controls all aspects of water quality in a lake. To explore this dependence and it range of impacts, this article will compare and contrast the temperature and dissolved oxygen profiles from three Finger Lakes with contrasting water depths: Honeoye, Seneca and Otisco Lakes. " (May 1, 2012) Happenings | the monthly newsletter of the Finger Lakes Institute
5/04/2012 - See the video on this page: Rochester NY Regional Group Sierra Club | Sierra Club If you missed this critical Rochester Sierra Club form on the privatization of our Great Lakes Water you can now see the video: 14 Annual Sierra Club Forum "Our Water's Fragile Future" "Join us for an evening with Jim Olson, a Michigan environmental attorney who has been fighting for 40 years for everyone’s right to the clean water that sustains life (read more about Olson on p. 3). He will discuss the multiple affronts to our water cycle and provide us with concrete ways we can restore and protect it. Jim is not only the foremost U.S. legal expert on this topic, but is also a passionate and entertaining speaker. You don’t want to miss the Forum! "
5/04/2012 - NYS has good plan to address Climate Change but it’s not happening because Cuomo won’t reconvene it says NRDC’s Ready or Not [check page 4, "Since the inauguration of Governor Andrew Cuomo in January 2011, the council has not reconvened, nor has state agency staff been directed to complete a climate action plan "report New York Climate Change Advisory Group "Executive Order No. 24 sets a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in New York State by 80 percent below the levels emitted in 1990 by the year 2050. The Executive Order also created the New York Climate Action Council (CAC) with a directive to prepare a Climate Action Plan. The Climate Action Plan will assess how all economic sectors can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and adapt to climate change. The Plan will also identify the extent to which such actions support New York's goals for a clean energy economy. "
5/03/2012 - The best solution for sewage treatment plants is to update them so they never put pollutants into our waters, even in frequent extreme weather events as predicted by Climate Change in the Rochester, NY region. A bill to notify the public is a good idea, but it does not go nearly far enough in a world that is warming and fresh clean water will be the most precious commodity our state has. Sewage-pollution disclosure bill advances | 520 – An Environmental Blog | Rochester Democrat and Chronicle The state Assembly has passed a bill that would require wastewater treatment plant operators to notify the public when they release untreated or partially treated sewage. Several environmental groups heaped praise on lawmakers for acting on the bill, which has not yet been passed by the state Senate. (No local lawmakers sponsored the bill in either house, though everyone in the Assembly did vote for it last week and Sen. George Maziarz, R-Newfane, Niagara County, did vote for it in committee.) (May 2, 2012) 520 – An Environmental Blog | Rochester Democrat and Chronicle [more on Water Quality in our area]
5/03/2012 - Take action on Fracking: "Statewide Day of Action to Ban Fracking: THURSDAY MAY 3RD 11AM 2239 South Park Ave. Buffalo NY On May 3, New Yorkers Against Fracking and our allies will be holding actions across the state, urging Governor Cuomo and legislators to support a statewide ban on fracking. In Albany, we’ll be delivering thousands of petitions to Governor Cuomo. In Buffalo, we’ll rally outside of Senator Kennedy’s office where we will tell him to BAN fracking! The Buffalo region is a critical district where, currently, no senators have signed on to co-sponsor a ban on fracking in New York. With the Department of Environmental Conservation trying to push fracking regulations through to begin drilling this year, we are running out of time! Join us for a rally outside of Senator Kennedy's office where we will tell him to listen to constituents and BAN fracking! We will have signs for those who need them. Or feel free to bring your favorite "ban fracking" sign with you! Share this link: http://action.foodandwaterwatch.org/p/salsa/event/common/public/index.sjs?event_KEY=73908 Invite your friends on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/299706783438773/ "
5/03/2012 - ACTION: Public input on transportation center: On Wednesday, May 30th from 5PM to 7PM (with presentation at 5:30PM) at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Riverside Court, 123 East Main Street, Rochester, NY come and give your input about public transportation and active transportation (bikes and walking). Will this new transportation center meet the needs of walkers and bicyclists too? Remember 27% of greenhouse gases are from transportation so the more folks walking and bicycling and using public transportation the less we contribute to Climate Change. Rochester Intermodal Transportation Center Scoping Study "The City of Rochester invites you to share your thoughts, concerns, and vision regarding Rochester’s Intermodal Transportation Center. On the date and time noted below, the City of Rochester is hosting a Public Meeting for the entire community to participate in. This meeting will involve an brief open house from 5:00pm to 5:30pm leading into a formal presentation beginning at 5:30pm. Following the presentation, a Q/A period will help solicit further dialog. We encourage each and every one of you to join us as we move forward in reshaping and energizing our regions downtown core. "
5/03/2012 - Walk for our environment on May 16th & 30th: Bike Walk Brighton "Mark your calendars...members of the Bike and Pedestrian Task Force will be making a brief presentation at the Community Forums, WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 7:00PM @Temple Sinai and WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 7:00PM @West Brighton Fire Department. Look forward to seeing everyone there. "
5/03/2012 - Concerned about our Great Lakes? Find out about the May eight cities tour: Great Lakes Great Lakes Need Great Friends Protecting The Great Lakes Forever 8 CITY TOUR – MAY 2012 Join Maude Barlow and other guests to celebrate the Great Lakes – a common heritage that belongs to the Earth, other species and future generations as well as our own. Hear how we can collectively protect them from private interests and government complacency and restore more democratic control over them. from The Council of Canadians - Le Conseil des canadiens
5/03/2012 - May is Asthma awareness month and note Climate Change will exacerbate Asthma: Asthma Home | Indoor Air | US Environmental Protection Agency "EPA's Coordinated Approach on Asthma EPA promotes scientific understanding of environmental asthma triggers and ways to manage asthma in community settings through research, education and outreach. With federal, state and local partners, we are building the nation's capacity to control asthma and manage exposure to indoor and outdoor pollutants linked to asthma. Our purpose is to build knowledge and awareness to improve the quality of life for millions of Americans with asthma. "US Environmental Protection Agency
5/02/2012 - Saving the planet or saving the symbol? Wouldn’t it be far more sustainable for the polar bear species to save the arctic ice by stopping greenhouse gases in our atmosphere than artificial insemination? It seems like someone who is searching for their lost keys in a lighted parking lot, instead of the parking lot where there’s no light. In other words, it is delusional to think we are saving the arctic by saving the most charismic species of the arctic. How can artificial insemination save the polar bear if there is nowhere for the polar bear species to live but a zoo—an artificial environment? The polar bear evolved to live and thrive and become one with the arctic and now that the arctic ice is melting and shows no signs of coming back in the foreseeable future why are we keeping saving the bear? more...
5/02/2012 - Get rid of those sensitive documents and Recycle them to at this event: "Free Community Shred Day: Join the New York State Consumer Protection Board, Classified Shredding Services and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in fighting against one of America's fastest growing crimes - identity theft. This one-day community event will take place at Classified Shredding Services on Tuesday, May 10, from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at 425 Paul Road in Chili. Local residents will have the opportunity to dispose of confidential documents in a safe and secure manner. Documents will be inserted into locked containers, shredded and sent directly to a paper mill for recycling. Limit 3 file boxes per person. For more information, contact Lou Ann Owens at 756-2233 or info@classifiedshredding.com. "
5/01/2012 - One of the things a mayor does is lead his community on taking Climate Change action. Be nice to hear Rochester, NY mayor talk about that in his 2012 State of the City address. Alas, nary a word about Climate Change or even our environment. Maybe next year—but by then it will be even warmer in our region. Read on City of Rochester | Mayor Thomas S. Richards' 2012 State of the City Address "Moving Forward: Focus and Finish Mayor Richards 2012 State of the City Address Delivered by Mayor Thomas S. Richards City of Rochester, New York April 30, 2012, 7:00 p.m. National Museum of Play at The Strong Watch a live webcast of the address "
5/01/2012 - Looks like a good webinar on Climate Change coming up on May 9th: "Up Next: Framing Climate Change: Recent Research Trends on Communication Strategies and Public Opinion | Climate change has become a hot-button issue in mainstream American politics, and people are divided over its causes, impacts, and solutions. This webinar will offer an overview of how the public views the issue of climate change, several explanations for these differences in perception, and possible approaches for bridging the gaps through innovative communication strategies. This webinar will provide information about: --from Changing Climate
5/01/2012 - Cloud cover won’t save us from Climate Change but because their patterns are hard to predict in climate modeling, clouds will make predictions cloudy. Rather than hoping for clouds to release us from our responsibility to take action on Climate Change, it’s probably more prudent to get moving on this. Clouds’ Effect on Climate Change Is Last Bastion for Dissenters - NYTimes.com LAMONT, Okla. — For decades, a small group of scientific dissenters has been trying to shoot holes in the prevailing science of climate change, offering one reason after another why the outlook simply must be wrong. Over time, nearly every one of their arguments has been knocked down by accumulating evidence, and polls say 97 percent of working climate scientists now see global warming as a serious risk. Yet in recent years, the climate change skeptics have seized on one last argument that cannot be so readily dismissed. Their theory is that clouds will save us. (April 30, 2012)The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Climate Change in our area]
5/01/2012 - ACTION: help clean up our parks: Show Parks Some Love - Sign Up for Parks & Trails New York's I Love My Park Day - May 5 "Find an Event and Register to Volunteer More than 30 I Love My Park Day events are happening at state parks and historic sites across New York State on May 5. Click on the map below to find an event near you and register to volunteer today! Already know where you'd like to volunteer? Go straight to the registration form. " -from Parks & Trails New York
5/01/2012 - The local media keeps making mistakes on how to properly dispose of E-waste in Monroe County. Go here: Environmental Services | Monroe County, NY
5/01/2012 - Green Drinks 5/17/12 Green Drinks 6:00 – 7:30 pm at 81 Browns Race, Rochester, NY 14614 Sponsored by Greentopia Festival and Sunnking There is street parking after 6 or parking is available in the High Falls Parking Garage.
4/30/2012 - Don’t throw your E-waste into the trash or the recycling bin. Find out how to recycle E-waste properly from E-waste events, E-waste companies, and some stores take those e-gadgets back. Best of all is to have the media help educate the public on the new NYS E-waste law and where to properly dispose of each particular item—as it matters. Millions of people throwing away old electronics, but a new movement is to e-cycle instead | www.WHEC.com Most people know they can recycle paper, plastic and aluminum. There is one thing millions of people don't realized can be recycled that's adding tons of waste to our landfills. We've all heard the three R's about recycling -- reduce, reuse and recycle, but now there may be a forth word to that list -- e-cycle. (April 30, 2012) Rochester, NY News | www.WHEC.com [more on Recycling in our area]
4/30/2012 - It's Arbor Day. Do good plant a tree. With help of the NYS DEC plant a lot of trees: Arbor Day Celebrated in New York State with Announcement of $750k in Urban Forestry Grants Available - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation New Yorkers Encouraged to Recognize Numerous Contributions Provided by Trees Grants Will Add and Enhance Green Spaces in Cities throughout the State At least $750,000 in Urban Forestry Grants is now available for urban communities to apply for, New York State Department of Environment Conservation Commissioner Joe Martens announced today at the New York State Arbor Day Celebration. Applications are now being accepted by DEC to support urban forestry projects across the state. These grants, funded by the Environmental Protection Fund, will be of particular interest to those communities faced with the infestation and eradication of the Emerald Ash Borer. Proposals for tree inventories, tree planting, maintenance, management plans and invasive pest detection studies will be accepted. The grants will be awarded to large cities and small communities across the state. Applications must be postmarked by June 21. (April 27, 2012) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation [more on Plants in our environment]
4/30/2012 - Bats and Bees: What’s the story? Considering the critical roles both bats and honeybees play in our environment, our economics, and our agriculture, it’s worth taking a moment to catch up on these wonderful creatures. Bats eat bugs that eat our crops and spread diseases—like West Nile Virus. Honeybees pollinate our flowers and crops—like apples. Bat populations are being decimated by White-Nose Syndrome and honeybees are also collapsing because of Colony Collapse Disorder. We know that both these species are in trouble by their diseases, but what seems to have clouded the information and hence the saving of both bats and bees is the role pesticides are playing in their demise—if any. However, both of these issues have gone on for some time now with little progress and we have to wonder if it is due to the possible role of pesticides: more...
4/28/2012 - If you don’t know who ALEX is and how our attempts to preserve and protect our environment is undermined politically by industry then you should read this: This Week in Clean Economy: ALEC May Target Renewable Energy Mandates | InsideClimate News "I expect the issue to be discussed at one of our upcoming task force meetings," the conservative nonprofit tells InsideClimate News. The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), a conservative policy group, has helped state lawmakers craft measures aimed at curtailing U.S. EPA air pollution rules, repealing cap and trade and teaching climate skepticism in schools, among many other things. A future target could be renewable energy mandates, which are on the books in more than half of U.S. states. (April 27, 2012) | InsideClimate News
4/27/2012 - This year’s odd weather isn’t so ‘odd’ when you connect the dots between Climate Change and extreme weather events: How Odd Weather is Hurting New York Fruit Growers | WXXI News The apple crop in New York is the second-largest in the country, behind only Washington State. Cherries, peaches, apricots and grapes are also big business in New York. But this year, New York fruit growers are suffering through an especially uncertain time. (April 26, 2012) Innovation Trail
4/27/2012 - While many are things like poor economies are ‘conspiring’ to do nothing about lowing fossil fuel use that warm the planet, Nature is indifferent Countries Losing Steam On Climate Change Initiatives : NPR Energy ministers from around the world met in London this week and got a scolding. The International Energy Agency warned the ministers that they are falling way behind in their efforts to wean the world from dirty sources of energy. Nations are nowhere near being on track to avert significant climate change in the coming decades. It turns out that right now, just about everything is conspiring to make it harder to clean up the world's energy supply. (April 26, 2012)Environment : NPR [more on Climate Change in our area]
4/27/2012 - As I am helping out in two area clean-up event around the community—tomorrow’s Monroe County Pick Up the Parks and the City of Rochester | Clean Sweep - 2012—this article seems appropriate for the way we treat the generation and disposal of products: Following Garbage's Long Journey Around The Earth : NPR "Americans generate more trash than anyone else on the planet: more than 7 pounds per person each day. About 69 percent of that trash goes immediately into landfills. And most landfill trash is made up of containers and packaging — almost all of which should be recycled, says Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Edward Humes, " (April 26, 2012) Environment : NPR
4/27/2012 - ACTION: Ask our mayor of Rochester, NY what he is doing to prepare Rochester, NY for Climate Change: WWF - Earth Hour City Challenge - Earth Hour City Challenge "Earth Hour City Challenge This year WWF is challenging cities to do more than turn out their lights for Earth Hour. The Earth Hour City Challenge is a year-long competition among cities to prepare for increasingly extreme weather and promote renewable energy. Participating U.S. cities receive resources and gain recognition for their efforts to curb carbon pollution and prepare their communities for the harmful consequences of climate change. Learn more about the City Challenge See how your city is at risk from extreme weather – tell your mayor to prepare! " WWF - Earth Hour City Challenge - Earth Hour City Challenge
4/27/2012 - ACTION: Take action for our Air Quality by helping local communities to screen for toxic air pollutants in order to begin to address some local air quality concerns. Apply by midnight, May 24, 2012. Community Air Screen Program - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation What is the Community Air Screen program? If you are concerned about what is in the air in your neighborhood, check out the Community Air Screen program. This new community-based program works with volunteers from local communities to screen for toxic air pollutants in order to begin to address some local air quality concerns. The goal of the Community Air Screen program is for community groups and citizens to partner with DEC to collect local-scale air samples. Who Is Eligible? Individuals as well as not-for-profits and neighborhood and community groups in New York State may apply. Priority is given to projects in or near low-income and minority communities and public locations where people are more likely to spend time outdoors. Approximately 12 to 18 applicants will be selected for this program. A total number of sixty (60) air samples will be analyzed statewide. Consider partnering with other concerned citizens or community groups in your neighborhood to strengthen your chance of being selected. How to Apply: Applications must be postmarked or emailed by midnight, May 24, 2012. The application (PDF) (136 KB, 4 pgs) is also available in the right column. The application process is very easy - four simple questions - four page limit. Complete the application using the writable PDF downloaded to your computer or by printing out a paper copy. Return the application to DEC postmarked or emailed by midnight May 24, 2012. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
4/26/2012 - Even if you are not a hunter or fisherman, you should be concerned about how profoundly wildlife is being quickly altered by Climate Change in our area. Warming Winters Threaten America’s Outdoor Traditions - National Wildlife Federation “On Thin Ice” Report Details Impacts on Hunting & Fishing Heritage | Near-record warmth in the winter of 2011-2012 left both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts scrambling to adapt – and it’s just a preview of what’s to come in a warming world, according to a new report from the National Wildlife Federation. On Thin Ice: Warming Winters Put America’s Hunting and Fishing Heritage at Risk tells the stories of how 2011-2012’s warm winter impacted hunters and anglers across America and details the steps we need to take now to protect those traditions for future generations. - National Wildlife Federation
4/26/2012 - Excellent discussion about “Merchants of Doubt” and how the fact of Climate Change has been clouded by deniers. Naomi Oreskes - Neoliberalism and the Denial of Global Warming | Point of Inquiry "This week at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a conference convened entitled "Science Writing in the Age of Denial." The keynote speaker was a former Point of Inquiry guest and a very popular one—Naomi Oreskes, co-author of the influential book Merchants of Doubt: How a Handful of Scientists Obscured the Truth on Issues from Tobacco Smoke to Global Warming. " Point of Inquiry
4/25/2012 - ACTION: What to do something concrete about solving Climate Change? Go here: "Are you passionate about changing the conversation about the climate crisis? Are you interested in leading the climate movement? What if I said you have the chance to be personally trained by Al Gore to educate others about climate change? This summer, you could have that chance. I'd like to invite you to apply to be one of our esteemed Climate Reality Presenters -- impassioned volunteer leaders who bring the reality of climate change to people around the world. We call our grassroots network of Presenters the heart of our Climate Leadership Corps. Learn more: "Climate Reality "To reveal the complete truth about the climate crisis in a way that ignites the moral courage in each of us. " Climate Reality | Climate Reality Training Application
4/25/2012 - How much trouble are our bats in? We hear about bats in the news in an ad hoc way, as the battles rage on about what is causing the white-nose syndrome but little about what is being done. Check out this site for bat disease locations and what our federal response is to help these critical creatures in our environment. April 20, 2012 WNS map | White-Nose Syndrome "White-nose syndrome is a disease affecting hibernating bats. Named for the white fungus that appears on the muzzle and other body parts of hibernating bats, WNS is associated with extensive mortality of bats in eastern North America. First documented in New York in the winter of 2006-2007, WNS has spread rapidly across the eastern United States and Canada, and the fungus that causes WNS has been detected as far west as Oklahoma. "
4/25/2012 -NYS is ready for Climate Change in the sense that our officials have plans, but because Governor won’t reconvene NY Climate Action Council nothing will be done. Report: Ohio unprepared for climate change | The Columbus Dispatch Ohio is one of the least-prepared states in the nation in terms of its readiness to deal with climate-change induced water shortages and bad weather, according to a report from an environmental group. The Natural Resources Defense Council report, "Ready or Not: How Water-Ready is Your State?" claims Ohio is one of 12 states that have done nothing to account for climate change risks that include lower water levels in Lake Erie. (April 5, 2012) The Columbus Dispatch | Central Ohio News, Sports, Arts & Classifieds
4/25/2012 - Monroe County gets a ‘C’ for ground-level ozone pollution, a ‘B’ for 24 hour particle pollution and a ‘Pass’ for annual particle pollution. The American Lung Association just came out with its 13th State of the Air report. "For 13 years, the American Lung Association has analyzed data from state air quality monitors to compile the State of the Air report. The more you learn about the air you breathe, the more you can protect your health and take steps to make our air cleaner and healthier. " Let’s see how Monroe County did this year: Monroe: State of the Air 2012 - American Lung Association
4/25/2012 - Take action on Climate Action Day, May 5th: Re-ENERGIZE BUFFALO: CLIMATE IMPACTS DAY - 5/5/12 - Take Action CLIMATE IMPACTS DAY - 5/5/12 - Take Action Environmental author and activist, Bill McKibben, along with his 350.org campaign, is launching a Global Day of Action to 'Connect The Dots' between fossil fuel extraction, climate change, and the extreme weather that has reshaped so much of the American landscape this year. The time has come to begin in earnest to move away from from burning coal, gas and oil. Watch this video and 'Connect The Dots' TAKE ACTION locally on May 5, 2012 at 1:00pm outside the Coal-fired, Huntley Power Plant in Tonawanda. more...
4/24/2012 - If journalism doesn’t ‘get’ the fact that Climate Change is real and they must change as the planet warms, journalism won’t make it either: Correction: Climate Change Is a Fact | If I could start a movement of a STOP SOPA nature, it would be to get every newspaper in the world to lead their publications on the same day with the same banner headline: CLIMATE CHANGE IS A FACT. Every news network would run a lower third stating the same thing for 24 hours. Because we need to set the record straight, once and for all, and it is a correction that is decades overdue. Yesterday was Earth Day; since 1970 this date has been dedicated to appreciation and increasing awareness of the planet's natural environment. But the scientific community has been aware of climate change and the conditions that bring it about for much longer than four decades. Scientists recognized the greenhouse effect in the early 19th century and tied it to the paleoclimate. Calculations in the 1950s became increasingly convincing, and by the '70s and early '80s, consensus among experts was completely clear: human activity on a global scale was warming the climate. (April 23, 2012) Media News, Opinion and Analysis - HuffPost Media
4/24/2012 - Don’t forget the environment. There are politics and there is the environment and we can change our politics and even our economy so that the environment matters. Message to President Obama: Don't Forget the Environment BOULDER, Co. - The University of Colorado is prepping for a visit from President Barack Obama later today. The President is scheduled to speak at the Boulder campus on student loans and higher-education affordability. But at least some students are hoping the President doesn't forget about an issue dear to Coloradans - the environment. (April 24, 2012) Public News Service
4/24/2012 - Don’t forget: May is for bicycles and that means Transportation with emitting greenhouse gases and warming our planet. League of American Bicyclists * Bike Month "National Bike Month is an opportunity to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride. Whether you bike to work or school; to save money or time; to preserve your health or the environment; to explore your community or get to your destination, get involved in Bike Month in your city or state — and help get more people in your community out riding too! When is Bike to Work Week and Day? The League of American Bicyclists is the national sponsor of Bike Month, and this year Bike to Work Week is May 14-18 and Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 18. " League of American Bicyclists * Home
4/24/2012 - Looking at Earth Day’s from the past: Earth Day Q&A: How far have we come in 42 years? | Democrat and Chronicle | democratandchronicle.com Fouled beaches, polluted air and litter-strewn highways were on everyone’s minds leading up to the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970. Local news coverage of the environment was heavy, but no offering was as ambitious as a six-part series entitled “Earth: Can it be saved?” Published by the Times-Union, the late sister newspaper to the Democrat and Chronicle, the series was written by a young environmental reporter, Graham Cox. (April 21, 2012) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York | democratandchronicle.com
4/24/2012 - What is ‘local’ news on a warming planet? A long and in-depth story appeared this week in our local media on how Climate Change will affect the Rochester, NY region. It’s part of a series that will be forthcoming. I make note of it because it’s really the first of its kind, an article in the local media about the consequences of Climate Change on a local level without the usual pandering to the deniers more...
4/21/2012 - Will the Governor of NYS do the right thing on Climate Change? Hope Governor Cuomo listens to his better angels and reconvenes the New York Climate Action Council and stops Fracking, which will fuel more warming because drilling for nature gas will release more greenhouse gases into our atmosphere. Six hundred pages from the “Climate Action Plan Interim Report” and the 600+ pages of the Report 11-18 Response to Climate Change in New York State (ClimAID) completely capture the environmental issues that will be coming to New York State because of Climate Change should not be squashed because the governor will not reconvene this critical group and address Climate Change as reported in Water-Ready Map: Impacts of Climate Change on Water Resources just released by the NRDC. more...
4/21/2012 - Here’s a way to help our environment and get the proper training: "Join the Alliance for the Great Lakes for an Introductory Adopt-a-Beach™ Training at Webster Park on Monday April 23rd at 6:00 pm! Learn the skills and techniques that allow Adopt-a-Beach™ teams across all five Great Lakes to collect data that is making a positive impact for our lakes! Information collected by volunteers is being shared with local, state and regional beach health officials and is used by the Alliance to comment on state programs to set standards for our coastal areas. During the Introductory training, Alliance staff will provide a program overview along with tips and methods for data collection. Data is gathered through litter monitoring and collection, scientific based observations, and simple citizen science tests. These trainings are also a perfect opportunity to learn about the Adopt-a-Beach™ online system and anything new offered through the program. This year’s training in Monroe County will take place at the Parkview Lodge of Webster Park (255 Holt Road, Webster, NY) at 6:00pm. For registration and other information, please visit www.greatlakes.org/aabtraining. "
4/21/2012 - Take a Climate Change Crash Course: Learn more about the major issue of our time, Climate Change, from a local expert. Our future will be shaped by Climate Change and all that we do will be now viewed through the lens of Climate Change. So know all you can: Climate Change Crash Course « The Cost of Energy "The Climate Change Crash Course (“4C”) is an experiment in creating a crowd-sourced, one-stop guide to climate change resources, geared to three levels of familiarity with the subject: Newbies, Nerds, and Ninjas. Each of those sections has three subsections: Must Reads, Extended Reading, and Web Sites Worth Tracking. As a bonus, there’s also a section on my favorite online research tools. "
4/21/2012 -Help save our Great Lakes from privatization, invasive species, pollution, and many other ailments by ‘liking’ this Facebook page: FLOW for Water "FLOW is a space for Great Lakes water advocates to discuss the threats & abuses facing the Great Lakes, solutions to protect the Great Lakes and to celebrate the Great Lakes. Mission To Save The Waters of the Great Lakes Basin Forever. "
4/21/2012 - Water Quality: If you missed the Rochester Sierra’s Club’s excellent program on Thursday on Our Water’s Fragile Future: Hydrofracking, Climate Change, & Privatization then you missed a great presentation on the water issues that face our region. However, you can get an idea of the global issues surrounding water in a world that is warming by listening to this conversation: Water World | Climate One "Water. All life depends on it. Human populations and environmental ecosystems to be sure, but also private industry and government economies. Today, however, this precious resource is literally drying up. Right here in the Bay Area, we’re feeling the consequences of a diminished snowpack in the Sierras and an increasingly beleaguered Bay Delta estuary. What are the impacts? And where are the solutions? " Climate One
4/20/2012 -A good way to Recycle is to donate those things you don’t need any more to someone who does. Greece Goodwill to hold grand reopening event - Greece, NY - Greece Post Rochester, N.Y. — The Greece Goodwill store in Stoneridge Plaza will reopen its doors for the first time since undergoing a renovation and expansion. (April 20, 2012) Greece Post
4/20/2012 - Fracking concerns in NYS include Fracking companies competing for drinking water as Climate Change stresses our water. As the consequences of Climate Change in New York State have rarely been brought up in connection to the looming Fracking decision by NYS, we should be concerned that extended periods of droughts coming for New York State towards the end of summer and early fall might create fights of communities with dwindling water reserves and the Fracking industries while will use a lot of our fresh water. Who will win when water gets dear? Pennsylvania drought cuts into natgas drilling | Reuters (Reuters) - Drought conditions in Pennsylvania have forced at least one natural gas driller to scale back production as companies were told to temporarily suspend withdrawing water needed for drilling in certain dry areas. (April 19, 2012) Business & Financial News, Breaking US & International News | Reuters.com [more on Fracking in our area]
4/20/2012 - Hard to believe that Rochester, NY has only one bicycle friendly business and that isn’t a business. New Map: Find a Bicycle Friendly Business Near You Yesterday, we announced 67 new Bicycle Friendly Businesses, and, with this latest round of awards, we passed a couple of notable milestones: There are now more than 400 BFBs nationwide who employ more than 500,000 workers. So how many BFBs are in your city or state? Lindsay Plante, the League’s Bicycle Friendly America communications intern, put together this helpful map so you could find out League of American Bicyclists
4/20/2012 - Check out Earth Day events in our region: Celebrate Earth Day, and other best bets this weekend April 20-22 - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow
4/19/2012 - Drought planning, even in NYS, will be critical as Climate Change stresses our water quality. This has to be regulated and maintained by government. Free market fundamentalism and no regulations won’t do—they are what got us into this water quality mess in the first place. NCPR News - Water expert says even wet communities need to think about drought planning The North Country is no stranger to the awesome power of water--we saw what it could do last spring and summer, when spring floods and, later, Irene, swept through the area. Our economy depends on water in various forms--agriculture needs just the right amount, fisheries need to be healthy and clean, the mountains need snow in the winter. (April 19, 2012) NCPR: North Country Public Radio
4/19/2012 - Message from CEI: Center for Environmental Information "Green Drinks Rochester Green Drinks will be replaced by Sierra Club's Environmental Forum. Topic: Our Water's Fragile Future - Hydrofracking, Climate Change, & Privati... Read More "
4/18/2012 - Special recycling event coming up this Sunday. This just in: "Temple Sinai at 363 Penfield is also having a collection event- this SUNDAY APRIL 22 from 10am to 11:30am where we will be working with Goodwill and Rbikes to collect clothing, electronics and bicycles. The clothing and bicycles should be in good condition for reuse through the two great organizations in our community. The electronics can be working or for e-waste recycling through Goodwill's partnership with the Dell Connect program. "
4/18/2012 - Crying more Wolf? I know climate scientist and those (like me) who try and convince the public that Climate Change is a clear and present danger to our way of life are oftentimes called ‘alarmists.’ My answer is to say that Climate Change is alarming and will become more so the longer we deny it and wait to address it. I say all this because this next story is creepy in the sense that it a new alarming consequence of the great warming we are experiencing. It may be within the realm of possibility that ancient microbes may thaw and come back to life… Though I suspect we have much more to worry about with the Likely Changes coming to our region than resuscitated microbes bent on mischief. Bugs in the ice sheets: Melting glaciers liberate ancient bacteria — The Daily Climate The world's ice sheets serve as cold-storage for creatures the Earth hasn't seen in eons. Scientists don't expect another Contagion or Andromeda Strain, but the release of unknown life forms does pose new concerns about effects of global warming. BOZEMAN, Mont. – Locked in frozen vaults on Antarctica and Greenland, a lost world of ancient creatures awaits another chance at life. Like a time-capsule from the distant past, the polar ice sheets offer a glimpse of tiny organisms that may have been trapped there longer than modern humans have walked the planet, biding their time until conditions change and set them free again. (April 17, 2012) The Daily Climate
4/18/2012 - How is the recent extreme weather affecting American’s perception of Climate Change? Read this study: Extreme weather, climate & preparedness in the american mind In 2011, Americans experienced a record-breaking 14 weather and climate disasters that each caused $1 billion or more in damages, in total costing approximately $53 billion, along with incalculable loss of human life. These disasters included severe drought in Texas and the Great Plains, Hurricane Irene along the eastern seaboard, tornadoes in the Midwest, and massive floods in the Mississippi River Valley. In the period of January through March 2012, Americans also experienced record warm temperatures, with temperatures across the contiguous United States 6.0 degrees F above the long-term average. In March alone, 15,292 warm temperature records were broken across the United States. In March 2012 we conducted a nationally representative survey and found that a large majority of Americans say they personally experienced an extreme weather event or natural disaster in the past year. A majority of Americans also say the weather in the United States is getting worse and many report that extreme weather in their own local area has become more frequent and damaging. Further, large majorities believe that global warming made a number of recent extreme weather events worse. Only about a third of Americans, however, have either a disaster emergency plan or an emergency supply kit in their homes. " Leiserowitz, A., Maibach, E., Roser-Renouf, C., & Hmielowski, J. D. (2012) Extreme Weather, Climate & Preparedness in the American Mind. Yale University and George Mason University. New Haven, CT: Yale Project on Climate Change Communication. http://environment.yale.edu/climate/files/Extreme-Weather-Climate-Preparedness.pdf
4/18/2012 - Check out Audubon’s new web site overhaul : Audubon, NY "Audubon's mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity. "
4//18/2012 - Don’t use those phone books that get sent to your house and want to reduce unnecessary paper waste? Opt-out of those: Opt Out of Yellow Pages, White Pages & Phone Books Delivery, National Yellow Pages Opt Out Site "Because we understand that delivering unwanted directories doesn’t benefit anyone. All participating companies must follow the guidelines in our Commitment to Consumer Choice. And in 2007, we adopted Industry Environmental Guidelines, which calls on all members to be more environmentally responsible in their business practices. "
4/18/2012 - From the desk of Dr. James Hansen on Climate Change and tar sands: Apr. 17, 2012: Grandparents Against Tar Sands: Comments about the demand of Norwegian grandparents that Statoil withdraw support of tar sands development.
4/18/2012 - Coming up in Brazil on 20-22 June 2012 Rio+20 - United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development "At the Rio+20 Conference, world leaders, along with thousands of participants from governments, the private sector, NGOs and other groups, will come together to shape how we can reduce poverty, advance social equity and ensure environmental protection on an ever more crowded planet to get to the future we want. The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD) is being organized in pursuance of General Assembly Resolution 64/236 (A/RES/64/236), and will take place in Brazil on 20-22 June 2012 to mark the 20th anniversary of the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), in Rio de Janeiro, and the 10th anniversary of the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) in Johannesburg. The Rio+20 Conference It is envisaged as a Conference at the highest possible level, including Heads of State and Government or other representatives. The Conference will result in a focused political document. "
4/17/2012 - Earth Day action event: Columbia University Earth Summit 2012 - Home When: Wednesday April 25, 1:00pm - 6:15pm Where: Columbia University Low Memorial Library 435 West 116th Street, New York, NY 10027 | A Call to Action As we face a growing number of environmental challenges, we believe that the solutions will come from partnerships between public, private and academic sectors. On April 25th, at the Low Memorial Library at Columbia University we will bring together experts, thought leaders and practitioners from those sectors to discuss some of the most relevant questions. Featuring leaders from: BUNGE Limited, Rockefeller Foundation, UNDP among others.
4/17/2012 - ACTION: Help Rochester region active transportation by helping to collect necessary data: Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project (Traffic Counts) | Rochester Cycling Alliance Subject: Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project (Traffic Counts) We need your help. The Active Transportation Working Group, a spin-off the Rochester Cycling Alliance’s April 2011 Active Transportation Symposium, is searching for volunteers to conduct bicycle and pedestrian traffic counts in Rochester and Monroe County during May 2012 as part of the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project, http://bikepeddocumentation.org/. We are planning to conduct the counts during commute times in the A.M. and P.M. on May 15-17. The meeting to discuss the program will be held: Thursday April 26, 2012 7 -9 P.M. Rochester Institute of Technology Center for Student Innovation Room 1100 Building 87, University Service Center, Parking Lot S Rochester Cycling Alliance
4/17/2012 - Find out how you can reduce your carbon footprints and reduce your impact on Climate Change: Union of Concerned Scientists: 20/20/20: 20 days, 20 ways, 20% less carbon "We know you're already pretty cool and smart. But we can help you get even cooler and smarter. Your path to reducing your global warming emissions by 20 percent in just 20 days starts here. It's easy and fun, we promise. Get your tips and your FREE sticker. Scaling it up. Think small changes can't make a big impact? Take a look at what a cooler smarter town looks like. Or a cooler smarter country. "
4/17/2012 - What’s in those Fracking fluids? Some say this is a good place to find out. Some companies are missing and so probably are some chemicals. But it’s a start for transparency. FracFocus Chemical Disclosure Registry "Welcome to FracFocus, the hydraulic fracturing chemical registry website. This website is a joint project of the Ground Water Protection Council and the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission. On this site you can search for information about the chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing of oil and gas wells. You will also find educational materials designed to help you put this information in perspective. "
4/17/2012 - Event reminder: "Though you have it, this is a reminder of the last in the LOCALIZATION ; ECONOMY, FOOD AND ENERGY series with focus on striving for self sufficiency in energy in Tomkins county. Suzanne McMannis, producer of the movie, EMPOWERED will be on a panel following the film to be held at the BRIGHTON TOWN HALL, LOWER AUDITORIUM:, 2300 Elmwood Ave. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 7 PM Tabling by many of the 10 sponsoring organizations will begin at 6:30 pm "
4/16/2012 - NYS cannot update its Energy Highway without talking about Climate Change as it is the most Powerful Idea related to our energy future. We cannot plan our energy use without looking through the lens of Climate Change because we have to reduce greenhouse gases as we produce energy and we have to at the same time make our energy highway robust enough to adapt to the Likely Changes coming to our state because of Climate Change. Upgrading our energy highway, without instructing the public on Climate Change is a failure of leadership on our true energy needs for the future. New York Energy Highway "In his State of the State address, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo introduced the N.Y. Energy Highway, envisioned as a public-private initiative to upgrade and modernize New York State’s energy system. The Governor’s New York Energy Highway Task Force is issuing a Request For Information (RFI) to invite innovative ideas from interested parties, including the State’s investor-owned utilities, private developers, investors and other respondents. On April 19, 2012 the Task Force will hold a Conference of RFI Respondents and Interested Parties. The conference will include an overview of the Energy Highway initiative, details on the RFI process, and an opportunity to ask related questions. Attendance is encouraged, but not required for respondents to the RFI. "
4/16/2012) -What good is the passage of the NYS’s Complete Streets law if a major project of the NYS DOT will not include bike lanes? NCPR News - DOT says no to Tri-Lakes bike lane (04/16/12) Officials in the Tri-Lakes area want the state to build lanes for bicycles when state Route 86 is repaved this spring between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. The 8-mile stretch of the highway is one of the most heavily traveled roads in the North Country. It's also popular among cyclists - both athletes and commuters. But as Chris Morris reports, the state Department of Transportation says there are no plans to widen the road to include bike lanes. (April 16, 2012) NCPR: North Country Public Radio [more on Transportation in our area]
4/16/2012 - Off-Shore wind farms, Climate change, and the Great Lakes The revival of off-shore wind farms for five states, including New York State, with President Obama’s ‘All of the Above’ approach on energy is likely to stir up fear and trepidation for those who had fought against the New York State Power Authority’s Great Lakes Off-Shore Wind Project (GLOW)—but it shouldn’t. However one might dislike the issues that come with wind power, they pale to the serious threats from Climate Change that are now looming over the Great Lakes. more...
4/14/2012 - It is interesting that we keep talking about Great Lakes water diversion without talking about Climate Change. According to most studies on the Great Lakes, including Confronting Climate Change in the Great Lakes Region (2003) by The Union of Concerned Scientists and The Ecological Society of America, the Great Lakes will have lower water levels and the West and South of the US will be very thirsty for fresh water. Diversion issues must be planned considering that lower water levels will affect shipping and hydroelectric plants and communities in drought-ridden areas desperate for water. Without talking about Climate Change and diversion together, present planning is inadequate. Great Lakes watershed bill draws concern - Toledo Blade COLUMBUS Opponents worry too much will be taken from tributaries -- A proposal to regulate water withdrawals from the Lake Erie watershed faces opposition from environmental and sportsmen groups who argue it would inadequately protect inland rivers and streams teeming with life. Gov. John Kasich last year vetoed Ohio lawmakers' first attempt at writing between the lines of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact approved by eight states and Congress. That business-backed bill drew criticism from other states, two of Mr. Kasich's gubernatorial predecessors, and environmental groups, in part, because it would have set the most lenient thresholds for water withdrawals of any of the Great Lakes states. (April 13, 2012) Home - Toledo Blade [more on the Great Lakes in our area]
4/14/2012 - It’s time for everyone to get moving on Climate Change: It’s Time for Interfaith Action on Climate Change « EcoWatch: Uniting the Voice of the Grassroots Environmental Movement There are lots of types of people who have been taking action on climate change over the last several years—environmentalists (of course), students and young people, community-based groups, labor activists, indigenous peoples, Appalachian and Gulf Coast residents, ranchers and more. Also, importantly, there have been people from the many different denominations that make up the broad religious community in the U.S. It was personally inspiring to me when several dozen people of faith took action last August, getting arrested at the White House protesting the Keystone XL pipeline. And it is inspiring that some of those people, as well as many more, have joined together to organize five days of faith-based activities calling for action on climate change in Washington, D.C. April 22-26. The Interfaith Moral Action on Climate is playing a key role in organizing and connecting these activities. (April 11, 2012) EcoWatch: Uniting the Voice of the Grassroots Environmental Movement
4/13/2012 - Got a candidate for an environmental hero for NYS? Tell the DEC: DEC Accepting Applications for Environmental Excellence Awards - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Applications are now being accepted for the 2012 Environmental Excellence Awards program, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced today. The awards program recognizes outstanding, innovative and sustainable projects or programs. Eligible applicants include businesses, educational institutions, not-for-profit organizations, facilities, government agencies and individuals implementing innovative, sustainable actions or working in creative partnership to improve and protect New York's environmental resources and contribute to a viable economy. DEC is especially interested in acknowledging projects that achieve significant environmental benefits through: innovative and cutting-edge pollution prevention technologies, manufacturing process improvements, initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, projects using green infrastructure practices, programs to "green" schools and businesses, energy efficiency and green energy production efforts, waste reduction and recycling efforts, and innovative environmental protection and restoration efforts. (April 12, 2012) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
4/13/2012 - When the South and West are thirsty for fresh water will they come to the Great Lakes to get it? Think diversion and water leaving the Great Lakes water basin will change our ecology and weather patterns. Drought expands throughout USA – USATODAY.com Still reeling from last year's devastating drought that led to at least $10 billion in agricultural losses across Texas and the South, the nation is enduring another unusually parched year. A mostly dry, mild winter has put nearly 61% of the lower 48 states in "abnormally dry" or drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, a weekly federal tracking of drought. That's the highest percentage of dry or drought conditions since September 2007, when 61.5% of the country was listed in those categories. (April 13, 2012) News, Travel, Weather, Entertainment, Sports, Technology, U.S. & World - USATODAY.com [more on Climate Change in our area]
4/13/2012 - Media in crisis & a world that is warming: still local media headlines sports, vehicle crashes, puppy abuse, locals getting on TV, busting online and off line shenanigans, local business moving, links to a hot Internet story, and the best way to tune up your abs. What about connecting the dots between Climate Change studies for our area and extreme weather? Or, news about how we are adapting to a warmer world, like getting ready for heat waves and floods. It has to get better. It can: Free Press | Media reform through education, organizing and advocacy "Free Press is a national, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization working to reform the media. Through education, organizing and advocacy, we promote diverse and independent media ownership, strong public media, quality journalism and universal access to communications. "
4/12/2012 - How is NYS’s new E-waste law doing? Find out what effect this new law is doing to promote the proper disposal of E-Waste in NYS. New York State’s Producer Responsibility Law for Electronic Waste: Reflecting on the first year – Interim Report, March 29, 2012 --from Product Stewardship Institute
4/12/2012 - Increase incidences of Lyme disease for our upper NYS region is predicted in Climate Change studies. Is our public health system prepared? NCPR News - Lyme disease on the rise in St. Lawrence and other counties If you're like a lot of people in the North Country, you've been finding ticks on yourself, or on your pets. The common dog tick can be easy to find, especially when they become engorged. But Deer ticks, also known as Black Legged-Ticks, are very, very tiny, and are difficult to spot. Deer ticks are the ones that primarily cause Lyme disease. Recent statistics show increasing levels of Lyme disease in the North Country. (April 12, 2012) NCPR: North Country Public Radio [more on Lyme Disease in our area]
4/11/2012 - Check out this new NYS law that attempts to protect our water quality. Our lawns and gardens and what goes down the drains in our house are important parts of our environment. Dishwasher Detergent and Nutrient Runoff Law - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation "The Dishwasher Detergent and Nutrient Runoff Law (Chapter 205 of the laws of 2010), was signed into law by the Governor on July 15, 2010. This law will improve water quality in New York by reducing phosphorus runoff into the State's waterbodies. It will also reduce costs to local governments and private entities required to remove excess phosphorus from stormwater and wastewater, and will improve recreational and other uses of the state's waters. The Dishwasher Detergent and Nutrient Runoff Law amends section 35-105 and adds a new Title 21 to Article 17 of the Environmental Conservation Law. Important information for Pesticide Applicators and Commercial Permittees. " New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
4/11/2012 - Reading this now: As if the problems we face aren’t difficult enough to solve, like Climate Change, there are those who would push their agenda despite the consequences to the worlds’ health and our environment Merchants of Doubt "Troubling story of how a cadre of influential scientists have clouded public understanding of scientific facts to advance a political and economic agenda. The U.S. scientific community has long led the world in research on public health, environmental science, and other issues affecting the quality of life. Our scientists have produced landmark studies on the dangers of DDT, tobacco smoke, acid rain, and global warming. But at the same time, a small yet potent subset of this community leads the world in vehement denial of these dangers. In their new book, Merchants of Doubt, historians Naomi Oreskes and Erik Conway explain how a loose–knit group of high-level scientists, with extensive political connections, ran effective campaigns to mislead the public and deny well-established scientific knowledge over four decades. "
4/11/2012 - Time to get rid of that hazardous stuff lying around the house and garage—in a good way: Webster is cohosting Household Hazardous Waste collection day - Webster, NY - Webster Post Webster, N.Y. — The Monroe County Department of Environmental Services (DES) and the towns of Webster and Penfield are collaborating to hold an appointment-only, one-day Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection at the Town of Penfield Highway Garage, 1607 Jackson Road, from 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 21. (April 11, 2012) Webster Post
4/11/2012 - It’s like I’ve been saying (Read: Great weather now but a lousy climate coming for the Rochester, NY region) insurance may be key in getting the public and businesses to ‘get it’ on Climate Change. Even the most diehard Climate Change denier is going to notice when their insurance rates go up or disappears altogether—which begs the question: who will pick up the bill when extreme weather due to Climate Change brings unprecedented costs? Answer: Even those dead set against big government will expect their government to pay for their losses. US insurance companies are in denial about Climate Change and so is our government and the public. But more extreme weather is coming and insurance is going to go up and out of sight for many—if not most in some areas like flood plains. Denial won’t solve insurance issues: As weather gets biblical, insurers go missing | Reuters (Reuters) - As weather disasters strike with more frequency, homeowners first get hit with the destruction or total loss of property. Many are then hit with the unexpected loss of homeowners insurance policies as insurance companies re-evaluate their financial liabilities. (April 10, 2012) Business & Financial News, Breaking US & International News | Reuters.com
4/10/2012 -Sooner, rather than later, we should view our energy use through the lens of Climate Change Debate on Oil Prices Overlooks the Elephant in the Room - GrowWNY That elephant is the carbon dioxide (CO2) that we release when we burn fossil fuels (oil, gas, and coal) and the global warming, ocean acidification, and other disastrous consequences of that carbon dioxide. (April 6, 2012) GrowWNY [more on Climate Change in our area]
4/10/2012 - Free event to learn about to learn about the very environmentally health practice of Permaculture. Introduction to Permaculture and Student Design Showcase – Free Event: Join us Sunday, April 15, 2012 3-5:30 pm at the Flying Squirrel Community Space, 285 Clarissa St., Rochester NY. Patty Love, director of the Rochester Permaculture Center, and the graduates of RPC’s first Permaculture Design Certification class will introduce the ethics, principles, and methods of permaculture in a brief talk. The students will showcase their final project designs. The community will be invited to listen, review the designs, and ask questions from our group of 6 total.
4/10/2012 - Health problems in the very young and old as heath waves come more often with Climate Change are predicted. Are we prepared? Elderly people more at risk of death due to summer heat - News - Scotsman.com INCREASED fluctuations in summer temperatures caused by climate change could lead to tens of thousands of extra deaths among elderly people each year, a study has warned. Scientists examined the impact on mortality of day-to-day variations in temperature during the summer, which are expected to increase as a consequence of climate change. They found that even small temperature swings, of as little as 1C more than usual, may shorten the life expectancy of elderly people with chronic medical conditions. Scotsman.com (April 10, 2012)
4/10/2012 - Climate Change is the moral issue of our times, those who encourage us to delay action must prove we can. Nasa scientist: climate change is a moral issue on a par with slavery | Environment | guardian.co.uk Prof Jim Hansen to use lecture at Edinburgh International Science Festival to call for worldwide tax on all carbon emissions | Averting the worst consequences of human-induced climate change is a "great moral issue" on a par with slavery, according to the leading Nasa climate scientist Prof Jim Hansen. He argues that storing up expensive and destructive consequences for society in future is an "injustice of one generation to others". Hansen, who will next Tuesday be awarded the prestigious Edinburgh Medal for his contribution to science, will also in his acceptance speech call for a worldwide tax on all carbon emissions. (April 6, 2012) Latest US news, world news, sport and comment from the Guardian | guardiannews.com | The Guardian [more on Climate Change in our area]
4/09/2012 - Another Earth Day event coming up. Check it out: Please help us celebrate Earth Day in the Finger Lakes!!! We have a FABULOUS line-up of home-grown STARS to entertain you and your family!!! I have attached a poster for the event to be held at the SMITH OPERA HOUSE SATURDAY APRIL 21st 7:30 p.m. Click on the attached recording icon for a short radio ad for the program. MORE INFO TO FOLLOW HAPPY SPRING AND HAPPY EASTER
4/09/2012 - Check out this forum on Fracking and public health: Public Forum: Facing High Impact Land Uses such as Gas Drilling This event is free and open to the public. WHEN: 6:30-8:30 PM, Tuesday April 24, 2012 WHERE: Albright Auditorium, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY David and Helen Slottje, founders of the Community Environmental Defense Council, Inc. (CEDC), will present a public forum on how to use local government land-use authority to protect public health, safety, and community assets in the face of high-impact land uses such as gas drilling. CEDC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) public interest law firm focused on assisting communities in obtaining the benefit of environmental and land-use laws. CEDC works pro bono (free). Helen Holden Slottje is CEDC’s Managing Attorney, and David Slottje is CEDC’s Senior Attorney and Executive Director. This forum is sponsored by the Finger Lakes Institute, Finger Lakes Zero Waste Coalition, Inc., and Concerned Citizens of Seneca County, Inc. Please reference the attachment to this email for more information.
4/09/2012 - Learn about solar power in our area from those who’ve installed it: "On Saturday, April 14 at 10:15 a.m. at the Watkins Glen library Bob and Shirley Barton of Mecklenburg will present "US-Made Renewable Energy for the Home: One Family's Quest." They seek to achieve carbon neutrality while providing jobs and income to small businesses in this country. Bartons will share their experiences with a solar hot water heater and a high-efficiency wood-burning furnace. Jonathan Wood of Green Sun Solar will also talk about his company's solar energy system and answer questions. The meeting is sponsored by the Finger Lakes Progressives and is free and open to the public. The library is located at 610 S. Decatur Street. Attached--if indeed Googlegroups allows attachments--is a poster that may be downloaded and distributed where anyone feels it will attract attention. "
4/07/2012 - Don't Forget to take ACTION: Curb Your Car Week, May 13-19, 2012 *Find one or more trips to leave your car home that week: to school, work, piano lessons, grocery store, or anywhere. *Bike, Walk, Bus, Carpool, Telecommute, Combine Trips *Register for free at ColorBrightonGreen.org, and then report your miles saved after May19. (All by email) *Open to all, don’t need to live in Brighton. *We will calculate total miles, gallons of gas, and pounds of CO2 saved, and announce the grand total. (By Email) *Prizes will be awarded to high mileage savers, and randomly to participants. *Cut Global Warming: Cut Air Pollution: Increase Energy Independence! Have fun! Enjoy a community of bikers and walkers all over Rochester for one week. Then, find out how fun it is, and how much money you save in gas and parking, and keep on doing it! Media Contact: Cheryl Frank 241-3078 730-1719 cell cherylmfrank@yahoo.com info@colorbrightonGreen.org Prizes may include environmental books for children and adults, energy saving small appliances such as lighting, donated by area businesses. Last fall, we saw 113 participants save 8000 miles, 303 gallons of gas, and over 5,700 pounds of CO2! All Brighton public schools, and many other schools and employers are participating by reporting their families' miles saved and their school or employer name online, to see how much we can save altogether. Join with your school, employer, or just on your own to be counted in the savings! Coincides with National Bike to Work Week. For more info contact info@ColorBrightonGreen.org
4/07/2012 - Important event coming up at Montezuma: Montezuma Audubon Center’s 6th Annual Wildlife Festival Will Soar on Saturday May 5: Celebrating Important Bird Areas There will something for everyone at the Montezuma Audubon Center’s 6th Annual Wildlife Festival in Savannah, NY on Saturday, May 5th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friends with Feathers and The Institute for Environmental Learning will conduct live birds of prey programs throughout the day with a variety of owls, hawks, and “Liberty the Bald Eagle”. The non-releasable animals will be on display during the programs that will focus on birds of prey characteristics, rehabilitation and conservation. Everyone will get a chance to have a picture taken with “Liberty”. Another highlight of the festival will be the Children’s Theater and Activity Tent where Lois Sprague will entertain festive goers with animal balloons and Andrea Whitcomb-May will perform conservation-related puppet shows that are sure to inspire. Everyone can also enjoy the bounce house, dunk booth, sing a-longs and the drum circle, making bird crafts and stained glass art, wildlife trivia on the big board, and building a bluebird box. Wildlife enthusiasts can fish their way to the backyard bass game and then fly over to see the dragons from the pond. The festival will celebrate Important Bird Areas throughout the Finger Lakes Region and the conservation organizations that are working to identify and conserve these areas that are vital to birds and other biodiversity. The festival schedule also includes: Dan the Snake Man programs, guided nature walks and canoeing excursions, a garlic mustard pull contest, a GPS treasure hunt, music from the Tom Barnes and Chuck & Paul, delicious food, local vendors, a native plant sale, wildlife exhibitors and much more! The cost to attend the festival is $3/adult, $1/school-aged child, FREE for children 4 and younger. For more information, call 315.365.3588, visit http://ny.audubon.org/montezuma.htm or e-mail montezuma@audubon.org The Montezuma Audubon Center is located at 2295 State Route 89 in Savannah, NY, approximately 1.5 miles north of the Hamlet of Savannah.
4/7/2012 - From our friends over at the Genesee Transportation Council (GTC) comes a transportation program long awaited to help reduce GHG’s. Check this out and more to come on this long anticipated aid for helping active transportation in our area and reducing greenhouse gases. Harrah for GTC! Roc Easy Ride, a new online service to plan your trip via bicycling, public transportation, and other travel choices | Rochester Cycling Alliance Today the Genesee Transportation Council announces a new online service that provides information on bicycling, public transportation, and other travel choices. roceasyride is a free-to-use rideshare solution allowing you to create a commute profile to find carpool matches and smart commute options specifically for you. Online tools allow you to track the money you save and the environmental benefits that result. roceasyride provides information on bicycling, public transportation, and other travel choices that can help you save money while improving our environment. (April 6, 2012) Rochester Cycling Alliance [more on Transportation in our area]
4/07/2012 - Why won’t Governor Cuomo reconvene the New York State Climate Action Council and complete a climate action plan? This inaction on Governor Cuomo’s part on denying Climate Change says volumes about our state’s position on Climate Change and all our authorities’ ability to act on what many studies have told us we need to do in New York State to prepare for more flooding, more public health risks from more heat waves, and many of our state’s infrastructure due to the increase in extreme weather. Read NY section from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) major report Water-Ready Map: Impacts of Climate Change on Water Resources that was just released: "In August 2009, then-governor David Paterson issued Executive Order No. 24, which established a statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal of 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. It also established the New York State Climate Action Council to develop a climate action plan that contains both short- and long-term actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.70 In November 2010, the council released an interim report containing reduction strategies for a variety of sectors including residential, industrial, commercial, transportation, and power supply and delivery.71 The council was composed primarily of the heads of various state agencies, many of whom resigned at the end of Governor Paterson’s administration. Since the inauguration of Governor Andrew Cuomo in January 2011, the council has not reconvened, nor has state agency staff been directed to complete a climate action plan.72 " - From the New York page of Water-Ready Map: Impacts of Climate Change on Water Resources
4/07/2012 - Even as Earth Day 2012 approaches many mainstream media are still spinning their ideology on Climate Change instead of informing the public adequately on the most critical issue of this century. How will mainstream media cover Climate Change on a planet that is warming up? Hopefully, not like this: How Murdoch's Aussie Papers Cover Climate Change "During my time in Australia, journalists said the Murdoch papers, to varying degrees, are receptive to those who question the science underlying projections of climate change. That holds true from the populist tabloids to the respected, if combative, national newspaper The Australian — even if the Oz, as it's commonly called, has more nuanced and extensive coverage. (News Limited's paper in the Tasmanian state capital of Hobart, where residents are more liberal, is seen to take a more pro-environmental tack.) " April 6, 2012) NCPR: North Country Public Radio
4/06/2012 - Fracking forum coming up: "On Wednesday, April 11, the Town of York, NY will sponsor a Fracking Forum at 7:00 PM. It will be held in the York Central School Auditorium, 2578 Genesee Street, Retsof, NY 14539. Presentations will be given by the Independent Oil and Gas Association of NY and Frack Free Genesee. There will be question, answer, and comment periods after each presentation. This will be open and free to the public. For questions contact Dave Nagel at DGNagel@rochester.rr.com or 585-243-3409 "
4/06/2012 - E-waste Recycling Event: Don’t miss this opportunity to get rid of that old computer and other E-waste. Free computer & Electronics Recycling Collection, Sunday, May 6th from 9AM – 12:30PM at Temple B'rith Kodesh 2131 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY "Electronic waste accepted here • Computer Equipment • oMonitors, Terminals • oComputers • oScanners, Ink Cartridges • oPrinters, Fax Machines • oNetwork Equipment • oKeyboards, mice and • oComputer Accessories • Miscellaneous Electronics • oCircuit Boards, Cabling & Wiring • oTypewriters • oTelecommunications Equipment • oAudio/Visual Equipment • oVideo Game Systems • oCell Phones, PDAs, IPODs • oUniversal Power Supplies • Television Sets • Batteries * Compact Fluorescent Lamps- Additional .35 cents each * Straight Fluorescent Lamps– Additional .40 cents each "
4/06/2012 - Climate Change as most reasonable folks now know is happening. Yet, should the public be able to see signs of warming? Read this authorities report by Dr. James Hansen and others on whether these extreme events, like a very warm March, are indications of normal weather fluctuations or Climate Change? Apr. 5, 2012: "New Climate Dice" paper posted on arXiv (PDF). Comments about the paper and enlarged version of the principal figure also available. from Dr. James E. Hansen
4/06/2012 - Trash, the other side of consumerism: This 45 minute video on what happens to your trash when it leaves your control is a thought provoking film about the other end of consumerism. As we learned in Stop Trashing the Climate, among the myriad problems our waste presents to our environment is also the specter of Climate Change. Here in our region this month there will be many events to recycle your e-waste, help PickUpTheParks for Monroe County and the City of Rochester’s Clean Sweep program. Check this short film out and you’ll be galvanized to do all you can to prevent trash and recycle instead: Trash Inc: The Secret Life of Garbage - CNBC "Garbage. It's everywhere — even in the middle of the oceans — and it's pure gold for companies like Waste Management and Republic Services who dominate this $52 billion-a-year industry. From curbside collection by trucks costing $250,000 each, to per-ton tipping fees at landfills, there's money to be made at every point as more than half of the 250 million tons of trash created in the United States each year reaches its final resting place. "
4/05/2012 - Great Lakes biologists to fire underwater cannon to combat goby | GoErie.com/Erie Times-News Scientists will fire an underwater cannon in parts of Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay this summer, hoping to scatter the nuisance fish that eat native trout and herring eggs. If it works, the cannon also could be used here. The target fish -- the round goby -- has upended the food web in Lake Erie. (April 4, 2012) GoErie.com: Erie's #1 Source for News and Information [more on Invasive Species in our area]
4/05/2012 - Learn about Mountain Top Removal and the price many pay for coal. "All are invited to the upcoming Living in Harmony meeting on Tuesday, April 10, 7 - 9 pm, Henrietta United Church of Christ, 1400 Lehigh Station Road. We are very pleased to have Paul Ciavarri come and speak on the topic "Heroes of Appalachia and recent events related to mountaintop removal." Paul is co-founder of Save America's Mountains and also serves as a board member of New York Loves Mountains (based in NYC). Mountaintop removal has become the most common way coal is removed and it creates wide devastation for the people living in the affected areas. Paul Ciavarri has visited Appalachia and has first hand information on the topic. He will discuss the issue of mountain top removal from the stories of people like Maria Gunnoe, Larry Gibson, Bo Webb, and others who have taken on the coal industry. This promises to be a very informative evening. Please join us and bring a friend. For more information, contact Elizabeth Pixley, convener (334-0977 or epixley@rochester.rr.com)."
4/04/2012 - How far out of your comfort zone would you go to highlight the Climate Change crisis? Gage & Gage Productions | Bidder 70 "BIDDER 70 tells the story of Tim DeChristopher and his stunning act of civil disobedience in a time of global climate chaos. BIDDER 70 is a personal story surrounded by a wider context of citizen action, our American tradition of peaceful civil disobedience, and grass roots movements demanding government and industry accountability. "
4/04/2012 - Bike sharing, more active transportation, less greenhouse gases into our Rochester, NY air. Might be a fit, check it out: "PBIC Announces Free Webinar on Bike Sharing Programs in the U.S. CHAPEL HILL, NC — The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (PBIC) announces the next free Webinar in its Livable Communities Webinar Series: Bike Sharing in the United States: State of the Practice and Guide to Implementation Thursday, April 26, 2012 3:00 p.m. — 4:30 p.m. EDT To register for the webinar, visit Bike Sharing in the United States: State of the Practice and Guide to Implementation. --from bicyclinginfo.org
4/04/2012 - Looks like this year, Greentopia is going to be bigger and better and bigger: Greentopia 2012 Has Expanded! "Following the success of Greentopia 2011, this year's festival has been greatly expanded! Running from September 10th - September 16th, 2012, Greentopia 2012 is a week-long interactive experience showcasing sustainability in the Northeast. Featuring four primiere events including Greentopia|FILM, Greentopia|MUSIC, Greentopia|ECOFEST and Greentopia|INNOVATION, Greentopia 2012 will have something for everybody. Greentopia|FILM will challenge individuals to reevaluate how they interact with their surrounding environment. Greentopia|MUSIC will bridge the gap between musicians and fans in a joint celebration of sustainability. Greentopia|ECOFEST will be an opportunity for attendees to explore the latest products and programs from businesses and organizations that will help restore the planet, promote sustainable living and foster new, innovative ideas. Greentopia|INNOVATION is a business to business conference that will explore the newest in innovation, technology and sustainable business. From each these four vantage points, every aspect of the festival will touch on how we as individuals and businesses can live and work in a more sustainable manner. "
4/04/2012 - Indeed, what is the state of our Air Quality in Rochester, NY and the rest of the US? Check here: "American Lung Association Clean Air Survey March 2012 The American Lung Association conducted a nationwide, bipartisan survey to examine voters’ views of the Clean Air Act and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) efforts to update and enforce lifesaving clean air standards, including carbon and mercury pollution from power plants. The polling information has national data and state data for Maine, Pennsylvania and Ohio. The results show broad support for strengthening air pollution standards. American Lung Association Clean Air Survey March 2012 American Lung Association Clean Air Memo March 2012 American Lung Association Clean Air Survey Presentation March 2012 --from American Lung Association
4/04/2012 - World scientists believe we should begin addressing Climate Change: Under pressure | Living Planet | DW.DE | "'Planet under Pressure' greets Anthropocene This week more than 2,800 experts from around the world gathered in London for yet another large environmental conference. The Planet under Pressure meeting aired a slew of proposals and warnings all aimed at steering the direction of this year's 20-year follow-up to the Rio Earth Summit. Listen to the report from Planet under Pressure " more on this topic: First State of the Planet Declaration published Scientists issue first “State of the Planet” declaration at the world’s largest gathering of experts on global environmental and social issues in advance of the major UN Summit Rio+20 in June Download declaration. Homepage ::: Planet Under Pressure[more on Climate Change in our area]
4/03/2012 - Focusing on small cities like Rochester, NY for sustainability sounds like a good idea: Catherine Tumber talks about the future of upstate's "Small, Gritty, and Green" cities | Innovation Trail Catherine Tumber is a big believer that small cities matter. "Cities like Rochester and Syracuse have been gradually dropped out of the urban conversation," Tumber says. "I wrote this book to address that oversight." Tumber's new book, Small, Gritty, and Green: The Promise of America's Smaller Industrial Cities in a Low-Carbon World, documents examples of small- and medium-sized cities charging toward a sustainable future. (April 2, 2012) Innovation Trail
4/03/2012 - On Wind Power many argue that wind power companies just plunk those wind turbines anywhere—just inconveniencing and besmirching the waterscape. How about a great wind map to see where the wind actually blows across our country? Let’s put some facts into the argument. Wind map of America Or, what Martin and Fernanda did next. See how the founders of Many Eyes made something beautiful and useful Share18 reddit this Comments (3) The Wind map of the US by Hint When Fernanda B. Viégas and Martin Wattenberg, founders of Many Eyes do a visualisation, they do it properly. Latest US news, world news, sport and comment from the Guardian | guardiannews.com | The Guardian
4/03/2012 - Excellent article on the importance of water in our region and how to preserve our water quality: Water, Water, Everywhere | Happenings "Water is an important and ever-to-be-managed resource for any community—urban, suburban, and rural. As many communities witnessed last year, water is a powerful force, and needs to be planned for when we develop and redevelop land, when we build and maintain roads, and when we create impervious or compacted spaces. " (April 1, 2012) Happenings | the monthly newsletter of the Finger Lakes Institute [more on Water Quality in our area]
4/02/2012) - How can the US put in a Climate Change denier for president when even our military understands Climate Change? Military sees threats, worry in climate change — The Daily Climate Climate policy may be a minefield in U.S. politics, but the Pentagon sees liabilities of a different kind and is forging ahead with plans to reduce the military's carbon footprint and prepare for climate impacts. 'It's about returning more of our brave sailors and Marines.' The U.S. military's elite forces have always pushed the envelope. And this summer will be no exception, as the Navy deploys SEALs with $2 million of new gear on missions to save hostages, combat pirates, and counter terrorism around the world. What sort of next-generation weaponry, armor, or transportation will the funds provide? None. (April 2, 2012) The Daily Climate [more on Climate Change in our area]
Fracking, or drilling for natural gas by means of hydrofracking, is not usually all that funny. But this is: Mark Ruffalo on Colbert Report | Grist Mark Ruffalo went on The Colbert Report to talk about fracking, and Stephen yelled at him — even though he acknowledged later that it’s probably a bad idea to yell at the Hulk. (March 29, 2012) Grist | Environmental News, Commentary, Advice
4/02/2012 - Great weather now but a lousy climate coming for the Rochester, NY region When I wrote this essay it was the first day of spring and eighty-four degrees outside. This year’s warm winter has finally convinced a lot of people that Climate Change is happening, but they seem OK with it. I heard some folks saying that they love this warm March and many are out running around playing Frisbee—those who would otherwise be huddled inside at this time of the year. Showing some exuberance, but not too much, our local news tells us to plan our gardens, but don’t plant anything just yet. It’s hot, but is it Climate Change? Some say it is: more,,,
4/02/2012 - GOP can be green, but they’re probably going to have to go back to high school and learn science, especially Climate Change science. GOP Enviro Activist: “Republicans Are Green, Too” NEW YORK - Support for many environmental causes seems to run strictly along party lines, but a group of Republicans is trying to change that in Congress. Republicans for Environmental Protection (REP) is asking House Speaker John Boehner to help push 19 bills through the House, legislation that would designate new wilderness areas, conserve wetlands and fight invasive species in 14 states. REP spokesman Jim DiPeso says it is not easy being "green" and Republican, too - these days - but that was not always the case. (April 2, 2012) Public News Service

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Daily Updates: Saturday, May 19, 2012

These are the daily recordings of what I believe are important indicators of our Rochester-area environment --since 1998. For all Daily Updates, go to Update Archives.