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Tag: sustainability

  • 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

  • New York Plans First Statewide Moratorium on Data Centers in the United States

    New York Plans First Statewide Moratorium on Data Centers in the United States

    New York is set to become the first U.S. state to impose a statewide moratorium on the development of new data centers, a landmark proposal aimed at addressing concerns over energy consumption, environmental impacts, and pressure on the state’s electrical grid. The move could have significant implications for the rapidly expanding technology and artificial intelligence industries.

    State officials say the proposed moratorium would temporarily pause approvals for new data center projects while regulators conduct a comprehensive review of their effects on electricity demand, greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and local infrastructure. Existing facilities are generally expected to continue operating under current regulations, while the review focuses on future developments.

    The proposal comes as demand for data centers has surged due to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cryptocurrency operations, and digital services. These facilities require substantial amounts of electricity to power servers and cooling systems, prompting growing concerns about their long-term impact on energy resources and climate goals.

    Supporters of the moratorium argue that the temporary pause will allow policymakers to develop sustainable guidelines that balance technological innovation with environmental protection and reliable electricity supply. They contend that stronger planning is necessary before approving additional large-scale facilities.

    Critics, however, warn that a statewide moratorium could discourage investment, slow economic growth, and push technology companies to expand their operations in other states. Industry leaders argue that data centers play a critical role in supporting the digital economy and advancing artificial intelligence, cloud services, and business innovation.

    If implemented, New York’s proposal could set a precedent for other states considering similar measures as governments seek to balance the growing demand for digital infrastructure with environmental sustainability and energy security.

    Swifteradio.com

  • Iceland’s 2024 Tourist Tax Hike to Safeguard Environment

    person walking near body of water

    Iceland is set to introduce higher taxes for tourists as part of its efforts to protect the environment, according to Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir. The new tax policy, which will come into effect in 2024, aims to mitigate the environmental impact of the rapidly growing tourism industry. Here are the key points from the announcement:

    Key Points:

    Tax Implementation:

    • Tourism Growth: Iceland has seen exponential growth in tourism over the last decade, leading to environmental pressures.
    • Tax Details: The new tax will be a broader version of a previous accommodation tax suspended during the pandemic. It will cover passengers on cruise ships and hotels, addressing both land and sea impacts.
    • Timeline: The policy will be implemented in 2024, with detailed amounts to be outlined in upcoming draft legislation.

    Environmental Goals:

    • Carbon Neutrality: Iceland aims to become carbon neutral before 2040.
    • Sustainable Tourism: The tourism sector is shifting towards a circular economy and adopting electric vehicles.

    Comparisons:

    • Other Destinations: Similar policies are being implemented elsewhere, such as a day-tripper fee in Venice and a tourist tax in Bali starting next year.

    Context:

    Iceland, known for its stunning natural landscapes including hot springs and black sand beaches, attracted over 1.7 million overnight visitors in 2022. The new tax is part of a broader effort to balance tourism with environmental sustainability.

     

  • Latest Environmental Impact Assessment Update

    The Ocean Cleanup has recently completed the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for System 001, a project designed to address the significant issue of ocean plastic pollution in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Conducted by the independent environmental consultancy CSA Ocean Sciences, the EIA aims to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of the project throughout its life cycle.

    The EIA identified potential impacts on marine life, birds, vessels, and protected areas. Although conducted voluntarily, the assessment adheres to the 1999 International Association for Impact Assessment Principles of Environmental Impact Assessment Best Practices. The findings indicate that 29 impact factors were considered, with all but one categorized as “Low” or “Negligible” risks, even before mitigation measures. The single “Medium” risk involved the potential attraction of sea turtles to the cleanup system or ingestion of plastics due to their concentration near the floating screen.

    Mitigation measures have been defined for all identified impacts, and The Ocean Cleanup plans extensive on-site monitoring during the first year of deployment to ensure the system’s environmental safety. Despite not being legally required, this EIA follows significant engagement with regulators, experts, and stakeholders, demonstrating The Ocean Cleanup’s commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility.

    The organization also encourages public engagement, inviting questions and comments via email and offering regular updates through their newsletter.

    SOURCE: theoceancleanup

     

  • Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP: Pioneering Environmental Law and Advocacy

    book lot on black wooden shelf

    At Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, our lawyers are on the front lines of emerging environmental issues, safeguarding and advancing our clients’ interests in state and federal courts across the country, before regulatory agencies, and within the halls of Congress. Whether you are facing an enforcement action, navigating new regulations, or seeking assistance with permitting or environmental due diligence for an acquisition, our environmental team will partner with you to develop and implement comprehensive, business-focused solutions.

    Our Expertise and Experience

    With over 50 environmental lawyers situated nationwide—including in California, Texas, and Washington, DC—we possess the deep knowledge and extensive experience necessary to handle a wide range of environmental matters. We help you manage day-to-day issues and respond swiftly and effectively in crisis situations.

    Our environmental team has been at the forefront of the field for the last 50 years. Established in 1970, we helped clients navigate the enactment and initial implementation of the first modern federal and state environmental statutes. Having participated in more than 40 US Supreme Court cases and hundreds of cases in the US Courts of Appeals, we continue to be thought leaders on emerging environmental issues.

    Comprehensive Environmental Practice

    Our rich knowledge and deep bench of lawyers—with experience in industry as well as at EPA, DOJ, DOI, DOE, Capitol Hill, and the White House—enable us to tackle problems and build durable solutions. Our air practice has been involved in significant rulemakings since the enactment of the Clean Air Act. Our climate change lawyers have litigated precedent-setting greenhouse gas public nuisance suits. Our water practice has been part of crucial rulemakings under the Clean Water Act since its inception in the 1970s. Additionally, we represent industry-leading clients in regulatory compliance, enforcement defense, and policy advice within the chemicals sector and related to waste control and storage.

    Industry Expertise

    Strengthened by extensive experience in the energy, automobile, chemical, manufacturing, semiconductor, primary steel, specialty industrial gas, commercial real estate development, petroleum product terminaling, and mineral extractive industries, and with federal, state, and local regulatory authorities, our firm counsels clients on diverse and evolving environmental legal and regulatory challenges. We maintain a keen focus on your strategic business goals while providing expert legal services at all stages of the regulatory process—from initial legislative and policy developments, through rulemaking and implementation, to defense against enforcement actions and litigation of complex cases.

    Recognized Excellence

    Our rankings speak volumes. Hunton Andrews Kurth was named the 2017 and 2021 Chambers USA Environmental Law Firm of the Year. Our environmental practice and many of our lawyers are ranked Band 1 nationally by Chambers USA and Chambers Global. We maintain the top national ranking for environmental law and water law—and regionally in each state where our team lawyers are based—in US News-Best Lawyers. We are top-ranked by Legal 500, Benchmark Litigation, and since 2012, we have been designated an Environmental Group of the Year by Law360 eleven times.

    Specialized Practices

    Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP successfully guides clients through all stages of incident response. We offer the first centralized source for tracking state applications for primacy over Class VI permitting programs, as well as the status of Class VI permit applications nationwide. Our PFAS practice is interdisciplinary, with experience in state and federal regulatory, litigation, and technical issues related to PFAS.

     

    source: huntonak.com

  • 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