Europe transport can meet new emission limits: Barrot

Europe may soon see more electric cars. Transport Commissioner Jacques Barrot has said that electric cars can help countries in Europe reach their target of 20% less emissions by the year 2020. Speaking at the Davos conference in Switzerland, the Commissioner stated, “For urban mobility, which generates 40% of the carbon emitted by all cars and trucks, we have great hopes for the electric car.” We appreciate your encouragement, Commissioner Barrot, and your vision of a planet that is clean and beautiful. May our actions as good stewards of the Earth help to achieve this shared dream.

People of Denmark show willingness to pay extra for 'green' electricity

Denmark reduces CO2 emissions through “green electricity.” The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Denmark has stated that the Danish people are willing to pay extra for ‘green’ electricity to reduce CO2 emissions. ‘Green’ energy is CO2-neutral electricity generated from wind and water, which will help reduce the gases responsible for global warming in the world. Bravo! Thank you, Denmark for this environmentally sound measure! May God bless the people of your country with abundant well-being through such green, positive endeavors.

UK's bird watching event begins

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds notes changing populations. Every year since 1979, bird watchers in the UK have taken part in a survey of garden birds that has also yielded information about the changing climate. It was noted that while some species have benefited from warmer climates, other populations have decreased drastically. These findings will be used to chart patterns in bird count, as well as prioritize conservation agendas. Our deep gratitude, bird watchers, for your caring observations that help us become more familiar with our feathered friends. May God’s blessings and our shared respect for these songstresses keep them safe in these environmentally evolving times.

Researchers say sea levels rising faster than predicted

Researchers find sea levels rising faster than predicted. Scientists from Britain’s National Oceanographic Centre, along with colleagues in the US and Germany, have found what is believed to be the first definitive evidence that sea levels are rising to ones reached over 120,000 years ago. At that time, the seas were six meters higher than they are today. These scientists’ findings indicate that between 1993 and 2006, sea levels rose 65% more than estimated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Thank you scientists for your confirmation of the urgency to take action in protecting our planet! We pray that the collective efforts of global citizens and governments will reverse these trends to sustain our beautiful Earth.

MPCB gears up to check pollution
 
Efforts to prevent air and water pollution underway in India. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board is starting a program to set up 46 air quality monitoring systems. They are also making plans for taking action to prevent pollution in 5 major rivers. We appreciate your commitment to a healthier environment, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board. May India be evermore blessed with clean air and water for all to enjoy.

Lankan teen among six voice concern at World Economic Forum

Youth activists speak out at World Economic Forum. During last week’s World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, six teenage delegates from around the world were selected to address world leaders with their viewpoints on climate change, poverty and other global issues. Their speeches represented the concerns and solutions of their peers in a powerful call for more diligent action. Kudos, shining young leaders, for lending the powerful voice of your generation. May we all work to make the future bright for everyone, especially for the deserving youth of our world.

Ministry to launch Web site to promote green transport

Website to encourage green transport in Formosa (Taiwan). The Ministry of Transportation and Communications in Formosa is establishing a website promoting on environmentally friendly means of transportation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency. The website advocates more use of public transport, walking and cycling. Our thanks, Formosa, for your eco-friendly initiative. May our wonderful planet and all her inhabitants be graced with abundant health and well-being.

World tour to create awareness

Two friends from Tamil Nadu, India drive around the world to raise awareness of climate change. T. Srinivasa Rao and R. Gnanasekaran will cross 30 countries on five continents in 365 days, spreading the message of green living along the way. They plan to meet with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, and US presidential hopefuls Barack Obama and Hilary Clinton. On previous tours, they promoted nuclear disarmament, rainforest protection, and other eco-friendly causes. Way to go, Mr. Rao and Mr. Gnanasekaran! We wish you safety and success on your adventure to deliver the urgent message of addressing global warming.

Ireland's Minister Ryan launches major new Ocean Energy initiative

Ireland announces a program to develop energy from the ocean. Following up on his commitment to making Ireland “a world leader in renewable energy,” Irish Energy Minister Eamon Ryan recently announced a €26 million program to develop best-in-class wave ocean technology. The money will be used to develop, build, test and market technological solutions harvesting the vast energy of the sea. Thank you, Ireland, for your efforts in harnessing the primordial power of waves and tides for a greener world. May your endeavors be graced with great success for the benefit of all.
 

New Techniques Create Butanol, A Superior Biofuel

Scientists make progress on biofuel research. Dr. Lars Angenent is working with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to make the biofuel butanol from plant debris containing high cellulose content, such as woody plant stalks, corn fiber, and straw. He uses biomass digesters with a mixed culture of bacteria to produce the carbon-neutral fuel, which burns cleaner and provides more energy than ethanol. What a great advancement! Our appreciation Dr. Lars Angenent and the USDA for your pioneering work with butanol. May it lead to a new era of eco-friendly fuels.