Florida legislators revived the debate over renewable energy and a bill that will provide tax incentives to homeowners or businesses that invest in renewable energy technology. The state of Florida is greatly dependant on natural gas as its primary source of energy. This makes Florida very dependent on foreign energy sources and transportation. Many believe that this is as important step in converting the state to renewable energies. Solar panels, wind turbines, and bio fuels are some of the technologies that can receive the tax incentives. The bill also allows companies to install charging stations for electric cars to encourage more people to buy and use them. Lastly, the bill requires electric companies to be judges on their fuel diversity if they want to build a new power plant. I believe that, if passed, this bill will motivate people to begin to use renewable energy and will be a small step in reducing the need for natural gas and oil.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Alpha fights to block health studies from permit lawsuit
In Charleston, West Virginia, environmental groups are trying to make a lawsuit against Alpha Natural Resources for mountaintop removal. There have been studies that show that mountaintop removal may be linked to certain human health issues in areas near the site. These studies show an increase in birth defects and cancer among these residents. It is believed that these health impacts are a result of increased air and water pollution around these areas. In West Virginia, the lawsuit also includes evidence that challenges the Clean Water Act permit that was issued for this company. Alpha Natural Resources has had its lawyers do whatever it can to prevent these claims from becoming a lawsuit.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
FDA Defines Maximum Level of DEHP for Bottled Water
Recent studies have shown that the main way that people have been being exposed to DEHP is through food and drinks. DEHP is used to make plastics and small amounts can be found in foods or drinks that are packages in plastic. The EPA says that long term exposure to this chemical can cause liver damage and cancer. It can also damage reproductive organs causing birth defects. Because of these studies, the FDA has decided to change the maximum allowable concentration of DEHP in bottled water. The new regulation states that 0.006 mg/L is the maximum contaminant level for all water. This brings the level of DEHP to be the same as tap water. This new law also requires that all manufactures of bottled water test finished bottles of water as often as necessary, but at least once a year is acceptable. This will make it so that the quality of bottled water is closely regulated so that it doesn’t cause any harm to humans. This regulation will take effect on April 16, 2012.
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