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Tag: clean energy

  • Elizabeth May Says Greens Can Win Byelection by Highlighting Prime Minister’s Climate Record

    Elizabeth May Says Greens Can Win Byelection by Highlighting Prime Minister’s Climate Record

    Elizabeth May has expressed confidence that the Green Party of Canada can secure victory in an upcoming federal byelection by focusing its campaign on the climate record of Prime Minister Mark Carney.

    May argued that climate policy remains one of the defining issues facing Canadians and said the byelection presents an opportunity for voters to demand stronger environmental action. According to the Green Party leader, the campaign will emphasize what she described as shortcomings in the federal government’s approach to climate change, clean energy, and emissions reduction.

    The Green Party intends to position itself as the strongest advocate for ambitious climate policies, calling for faster investment in renewable energy, stronger environmental protections, and greater accountability in meeting Canada’s emissions targets.

    May said Canadians are increasingly concerned about the growing impacts of climate change, including more frequent wildfires, floods, and extreme weather events. She argued that voters want practical solutions that place environmental sustainability at the center of national policy.

    The comments come as political parties prepare for the upcoming byelection, with climate policy expected to be a major campaign issue alongside affordability, healthcare, housing, and economic growth.

    The federal government has maintained that it remains committed to achieving Canada’s climate goals through investments in clean technology, emissions reduction initiatives, and sustainable economic development. Government officials have defended their environmental agenda, stating that significant progress has been made while balancing economic priorities.

    Political analysts say the Green Party’s strategy reflects its long-standing emphasis on environmental issues and could resonate with voters who consider climate action a top priority.

    The outcome of the byelection will be closely watched as an indicator of public sentiment toward the government’s environmental policies and the Green Party’s ability to expand its support ahead of future federal elections.

    Swifteradio.com

  • Scientists Say Ending Fossil Fuel Use Is Key to Reducing Wildfire Smoke and Improving Air Quality

    Scientists Say Ending Fossil Fuel Use Is Key to Reducing Wildfire Smoke and Improving Air Quality

    Scientists are warning that increasingly smoky skies caused by devastating wildfires will continue to threaten public health unless governments and industries significantly reduce the use of fossil fuels, arguing that tackling climate change is the only long-term solution to the growing crisis.

    As communities across Canada and other parts of the world continue to experience hazardous air quality due to wildfire smoke, climate experts say the worsening intensity and frequency of wildfires are closely linked to rising global temperatures driven by greenhouse gas emissions.

    Researchers explain that while emergency responses, forest management, and wildfire suppression remain important, these measures alone cannot address the underlying causes of increasingly severe fire seasons. They argue that reducing dependence on coal, oil, and natural gas is essential to slowing climate change and limiting the environmental conditions that fuel large-scale wildfires.

    Air quality experts note that wildfire smoke contains harmful pollutants capable of affecting people hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away from active fires. Exposure to smoke has been associated with respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems, and increased health risks for children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

    Climate scientists emphasize that warmer temperatures, prolonged droughts, and changing weather patterns have created conditions that allow wildfires to spread more rapidly and burn with greater intensity than in previous decades.

    Environmental organizations are urging governments to accelerate investments in renewable energy, expand clean transportation, improve energy efficiency, and strengthen climate adaptation strategies to reduce future wildfire risks.

    While some experts acknowledge that wildfires are a natural part of many ecosystems, they stress that human-driven climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of extreme fire events and prolonged wildfire seasons.

    Governments across Canada have continued investing in wildfire response capabilities and emergency preparedness, but researchers argue that reducing carbon emissions remains critical to protecting communities from increasingly dangerous fire conditions.

    Scientists say meaningful action to transition away from fossil fuels, combined with stronger environmental policies and sustainable land management, offers the most effective path toward reducing wildfire severity and improving long-term air quality.

    As wildfire seasons continue to intensify worldwide, experts maintain that addressing climate change remains essential to safeguarding public health, ecosystems, and future generations.

    Swifteradio.com

  • Ahead of Calgary Stampede Visit, Carney Renews Call for National Unity to Address Canada’s Energy Challenges

    Ahead of Calgary Stampede Visit, Carney Renews Call for National Unity to Address Canada’s Energy Challenges

    Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has renewed his call for national unity in tackling Canada’s energy challenges ahead of his visit to the Calgary Stampede, emphasizing the need for cooperation between provinces, industry leaders, Indigenous communities, and the federal government.

    Speaking before his scheduled appearance at the annual event in Calgary, Carney said Canada must work together to strengthen energy security, expand infrastructure, and ensure the country remains competitive in global energy markets while advancing its climate objectives.

    The Prime Minister stressed that addressing Canada’s long-term energy needs requires collaboration rather than political division, noting that reliable energy production remains critical to economic growth, job creation, and national prosperity.

    Carney reiterated that his government supports an approach that balances responsible development of Canada’s natural resources with investments in clean energy and emissions reduction technologies.

    His remarks come as debates continue over pipelines, electricity infrastructure, energy exports, and the transition toward lower-carbon energy sources. Provincial governments, particularly in western Canada, have continued to call for greater support for resource development and expanded energy infrastructure.

    The Calgary Stampede has long served as a major gathering for political leaders, business executives, and stakeholders in Canada’s oil and gas sector, making it a key platform for discussions on energy policy and economic development.

    Industry representatives have welcomed continued dialogue with the federal government while urging Ottawa to accelerate regulatory approvals, improve investment certainty, and strengthen Canada’s position as a global energy supplier.

    Environmental groups, meanwhile, continue advocating for stronger climate action and increased investment in renewable energy projects as Canada works toward its emissions reduction targets.

    Carney said Canada’s future depends on building consensus across regions and sectors, arguing that national cooperation will be essential to overcoming energy challenges while supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability.

    His visit to the Calgary Stampede is expected to include meetings with provincial officials, energy executives, and community leaders to discuss investment, infrastructure, and Canada’s evolving energy strategy.

    As energy policy remains one of the country’s most significant economic issues, the Prime Minister’s message underscores his government’s focus on finding common ground to address both immediate and long-term challenges facing Canada’s energy sector.

    Swifteradio.com

  • Africa Secures $900 Million in New Commitments to Expand Clean Cooking Access

    Africa Secures $900 Million in New Commitments to Expand Clean Cooking Access

    African nations have secured $900 million in new financial commitments aimed at expanding access to clean cooking solutions, marking a major step toward improving public health, protecting the environment, and increasing energy access across the continent.

    The new funding will support initiatives designed to promote cleaner cooking technologies, including improved cookstoves, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), electricity, biogas, and other sustainable energy solutions that reduce reliance on traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal.

    Officials said the commitments were announced as part of broader efforts to accelerate the transition to clean energy while addressing the health and environmental challenges associated with household air pollution.

    According to development partners, millions of people across Africa still rely on traditional cooking methods that expose families to harmful indoor smoke, contributing to respiratory illnesses, environmental degradation, and deforestation.

    The newly secured funding is expected to help governments, private sector partners, and development organizations expand access to affordable and reliable clean cooking technologies, particularly in underserved rural and low-income communities.

    Experts say increasing access to clean cooking solutions can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve health outcomes, create economic opportunities, and support climate resilience across the continent.

    Development agencies also noted that expanding clean cooking infrastructure could generate new jobs through manufacturing, distribution, maintenance, and energy services while improving the quality of life for millions of households.

    Several African governments welcomed the financial commitments, describing them as an important contribution toward achieving sustainable development goals related to health, energy access, gender equality, and environmental protection.

    International partners emphasized that continued investment will be necessary to close the clean cooking access gap and ensure long-term progress toward universal access to modern energy services.

    Energy specialists believe stronger collaboration between governments, financial institutions, and private investors will play a key role in scaling clean cooking programmes throughout Africa.

    As implementation begins, stakeholders are expected to focus on expanding infrastructure, lowering consumer costs, and increasing public awareness of the benefits of adopting cleaner cooking technologies.

    The latest funding commitments underscore growing international support for Africa’s clean energy transition while reinforcing efforts to improve health, reduce emissions, and strengthen sustainable development across the continent.

    Swiferadio.com

  • Guilbeault Says He ‘Respectfully Disagrees’ With Prime Minister Carney Over Pipeline Project

    Guilbeault Says He ‘Respectfully Disagrees’ With Prime Minister Carney Over Pipeline Project

    Steven Guilbeault has publicly stated that he “respectfully disagrees” with Mark Carney over a proposed pipeline project, highlighting differing views within the federal government on Canada’s energy and environmental priorities.

    Speaking to reporters, Guilbeault acknowledged the Prime Minister’s position while making it clear that he holds a different perspective regarding the project’s potential environmental and climate implications.

    The disagreement centers on the proposed pipeline’s role in Canada’s energy sector, with supporters arguing that expanded pipeline infrastructure would strengthen energy security, support economic growth, and create jobs. Opponents, however, have raised concerns about greenhouse gas emissions, environmental protection, and Canada’s climate commitments.

    Guilbeault emphasized that while differences of opinion exist, discussions within government are part of a healthy democratic process and do not diminish the cabinet’s collective responsibility to make decisions in the country’s best interests.

    Prime Minister Carney has indicated that his government is seeking to balance economic development with environmental sustainability, stressing the importance of supporting Canada’s energy industry while advancing the country’s transition toward a lower-carbon economy.

    The proposed pipeline project has generated significant debate among provincial governments, Indigenous communities, environmental organizations, and industry stakeholders.

    Business groups have argued that additional pipeline capacity could improve market access for Canadian energy exports and strengthen the country’s economic competitiveness.

    Environmental advocates, meanwhile, continue to urge the federal government to prioritize investments in renewable energy and clean technology rather than expanding fossil fuel infrastructure.

    Political analysts note that disagreements among cabinet ministers are not uncommon, particularly on complex policy issues involving energy, climate change, and economic development.

    The discussion also reflects broader national debates over how Canada should balance resource development with its commitments to reduce carbon emissions and address climate change.

    Government officials have indicated that consultations with affected communities, Indigenous leaders, industry representatives, and environmental experts will continue before final decisions are made.

    Observers say the outcome of the pipeline proposal could have significant implications for Canada’s energy policy, investment climate, and environmental strategy in the years ahead.

    Despite the policy differences, Guilbeault reaffirmed his commitment to working collaboratively within the government while advocating for policies that align with Canada’s environmental objectives.

    As discussions continue, the federal government faces the challenge of reconciling economic priorities with climate commitments while maintaining public confidence in its long-term energy strategy.

    Swifteradio.com

  • Impact of Healthier Environments on Reducing the Global Burden of Disease

    red and white bokeh lightsThe Critical Role of Healthier Environments in Reducing Global Disease Burden

    Healthier environments have the potential to significantly reduce the global burden of disease, with estimates suggesting that almost one-quarter of it could be prevented. The COVID-19 pandemic has starkly highlighted the fragile relationship between human health and the health of our planet. Ensuring clean air, a stable climate, adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene, safe use of chemicals, protection from radiation, healthy workplaces, sustainable agricultural practices, health-supportive cities and built environments, and preserved nature are all essential prerequisites for good health.

    In 2016, around 13.7 million deaths per year, or 24% of global deaths, were attributable to modifiable environmental risks. This translates to nearly one in four deaths globally being linked to environmental conditions. The pathways through which disease agents and exposures occur are numerous, and unhealthy environmental conditions are widespread, affecting most disease and injury categories. Noncommunicable diseases such as ischaemic heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers are the most common outcomes, followed closely by injuries, respiratory infections, and strokes.

    To address these challenges and promote healthier environments for healthier populations, various initiatives are underway. These include addressing the health consequences of air pollution, hosting global conferences on air pollution and health, and convening health professionals to advance the climate change and health agenda. For example, progress on basic energy access has reversed for the first time in a decade, underscoring the need for continued efforts.

    Recent publications highlight the importance of providing safe and sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, managing healthcare waste, and ensuring reliable electricity. These efforts are crucial for maintaining public health, especially in fragile, conflict-affected, and vulnerable settings. Adolescents, who make up about 1.3 billion of the world’s population, are particularly at risk due to prolonged exposure to unhealthy environments.

    Small drinking-water supplies often face operational, managerial, technical, and resourcing challenges, impacting their ability to deliver safe water. Energy access is also linked to many sustainable development priorities, including public health, gender equality, food security, clean water, education, and economic development.

    Efforts to accelerate access to electricity in healthcare facilities, the impact of health innovations, R&D processes, and access to essential health services are all part of the broader agenda to build healthier environments. Stories of success and ongoing challenges are being shared through various platforms, including features on air pollution, health and environment scorecards, worker health and safety, and ethical radiological imaging.

    Upcoming events and webinars continue to address these critical issues, such as the Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health, webinars on accessing GCF Readiness funds, conducting gender analyses for climate change and health vulnerability assessments, and developing Health National Adaptation Plans (HNAPs).

    Country profiles on air pollution, chemical safety, children’s environmental health, climate change, health impact assessments, occupational health, radiation, sustainable development, ultraviolet radiation, urban health, and WASH provide valuable insights into the state of environmental health worldwide. By focusing on these areas, we can move towards a future where healthier environments lead to healthier populations.

    source: who.int

  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy – Clarkson University News

    woman holding laboratory appratus

    The most pressing environmental issues today—from greenhouse gas emissions to the overuse of disposable plastics—stem from human decisions. Addressing these issues requires a deep understanding of both the scientific and policy aspects that impact our planet.

    Clarkson University’s Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability provides a comprehensive background in relevant laws, history, ethics, chemistry, biology, groundbreaking technologies, and sustainable practices. Customize your studies with a concentration based on potential career paths: environmental health and safety, environmental science, environmental policy, or sustainable solutions.

    This interdisciplinary degree reflects today’s multipronged approach to sustainability—one that preserves the natural world, supports biodiversity, and balances human impact with protection of the planet we all share.

    Our program is tight-knit, rigorous, and designed to tailor the curriculum to your interests. The coursework emphasizes sustainability and hands-on experience through projects, starting from your first year of studies. In your final year, complete a capstone project exploring your research interests. A variety of minors helps round out your education.

    All students must participate in a co-op, internship, directed research, or a community project to graduate. Apply your knowledge in immersion experiences like the Adirondack Semester or a Global Business Program trip focused on socioeconomics and sustainable development in East Africa. Our world-class faculty frequently invite students to collaborate on research teams and mentor their projects.

    We pride ourselves on putting sustainability education into action. The major is offered through our Institute for a Sustainable Environment, a renowned cross-campus hub for education, research, and campus sustainability initiatives. We have been named one of the most environmentally responsible colleges in the country by The Princeton Review and one of the top 75 most eco-literate colleges by the Sierra Club. We have also received a gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.

    Our Environmental Science & Sustainability majors had a 100 percent placement rate in 2023.

    The bachelor’s in environmental science and sustainability requires 48 credit hours of core classes. The program begins with a common core exploring STEM applications to sustainability challenges, requires each student to hone a specialty through one of four concentrations, and adds flexibility through electives. Electives allow you to add a minor or double major in a related area like biology, project management, environmental engineering, political science, or psychology.

    Basic Science Courses Math Courses Environmental Science and Sustainability Courses Classes for your concentration (38-43 credits) and free electives (29-34 credits).

    The Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) concentration gives you the scientific and technical knowledge to identify environmental hazards, minimize their risks, and discover innovative solutions to improve our surroundings.

    The Environmental Science concentration delves into environmental research and impacts ecosystems. Prepare for a career as a conservation biologist, preserving biodiversity and conserving natural habitats.

    The Environmental Policy concentration shapes the future by influencing policies, laws, and regulations that drive sustainable change. Be a guiding force for corporations adopting eco-friendly practices and sustainable strategies.

    The Sustainable Solutions concentration integrates business, policy, social science, and technology for a better and more sustainable world.

    Apply your knowledge to faculty-led research projects, exploring topics like green energy policy, wetland restoration ecology, and the interactions between freshwater plankton and trace metal elements. Opportunities are open to undergraduates during the school year and summer sessions.

    Professional experience is a key component of the program. Choose between a co-op, internship, directed research, or community project. Learn more about co-ops and internships.

    In your final year, deliver a capstone project encompassing what you have learned. Projects have focused on topics like the effects of different agricultural practices on soil carbon and nitrogen stocks, community composting potential in Potsdam, and campus carbon sequestration analysis.

    Hands-on learning opportunities include the Adirondack Semester program, sustainability global travel courses, and other study-abroad options.

    Join a community of creators and innovators through Clarkson’s 200-plus student groups, including the Clarkson Sustainability Club, Engineers for International Sustainability, Garden Club, New York Water Environment Association, Clarkson University Outing Club, and more.

    Use elective credits to explore a subdiscipline or related area with a minor:

    • Environmental Health Science: Focus on the relationship between chemicals, waste, and human exposure.
    • Sustainable Energy Systems Engineering: Learn about the technical, environmental, and policy aspects of sustainable energy systems.
    • Sustainable Solutions for the Developing World: Bridge social equity, economic development, and environmental preservation.
    • Environmental Policy: Blend policy with environmental science.
    • Environmental Science: Explore ecology, sustainability, bioinformatics, microbiology, and hydrology.

    HAZWOPER training prepares workers for safe operations during scenarios involving hazardous substances. The 40-hour course covers policies, practices, and procedures to reduce injury and illness risks related to harmful exposures. The 8-hour refresher course is for those who have completed the 40-hour training.

    “I heard about Clarkson’s sustainability. I love the environment, and I thought Clarkson would ignite that passion and help me find my path in life.”

    • Elise DeVeau ’25

    The demand for environmental scientists and specialists is expected to grow over the next decade. Our students begin careers in public agencies, environmental organizations, state or federal government, education, environmental research, green companies, and more.

    Potential roles include:

    • Environmental Scientist
    • Conservation Biologist
    • Environmental Consultant
    • Sustainability Manager
    • Environmental Policy Analyst

    The curriculum also prepares students for graduate degrees in health sciences, including medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science.

    Our graduates have found success in both public and private sectors, with recruitment by various organizations, companies, and institutions. Many pursue advanced degrees through Clarkson’s own Environmental Science and Engineering MS and PhD programs and MBA program. Other graduate schools include:

    Request Info Apply Now Institute for a Sustainable Environment Email: ise@clarkson.edu Phone: 315-268-3856

    Interested in learning more about the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability? Contact the Institute for a Sustainable Environment today with your questions.

    An interdisciplinary hub for faculty and students, the Institute for a Sustainable Environment focuses on environmental education, sustainable efforts, and research initiatives. It also houses a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including the environmental science and policy major.

    Institute for a Sustainable Environment Be part of the innovation that will lead us to a more sustainable future. If you see yourself making a difference as an environmental science and sustainability major at Clarkson University, take the next step.

    source: clarkson.edu