North Carolina Sierra Club Blog

Recycling Christmas Trees in Fort Macon

2012-01-03T20:33:00.003-05:00

Throughout the past 30 years, Fort Macon State Park in Carteret County has used Christmas trees to strengthen the dunes along the beach. This area receives about 1,500 trees each year. The trees are staked in areas where the dunes have been depleted. Eventually, the tree limbs catch the sand and replenish the dunes. In addition, birds leave their droppings improving the vegetation of future dunes. Randy Newman, the park's superintendent says, "We're able to use Christmas trees to repair the damage and keep the park open instead of limiting our visiting capacity". This method of using trees to regenerate ensures that 422 acres of the park remain fully accessible for the many visitors each year. Learning about this creative method of tree recycling can help with new ideas for the future.

Problems in the Ocean

2012-01-03T17:47:00.006-05:00

We already know that the fish in our oceans suffer from over fishing, plastic pollution, and mercury from coal power plants. It has recently been discovered that acid contamination can be added to the list. Basically, as we burn more and more fossil fuels, the acidity of the ocean increases and likewise, there are more fish fatalities. A recent study found damaged and dead tissue in fish larvae due to the increasing acidity levels. Another study found that the survival of larvae was drastically decreasing.

Because some areas of the ocean experience these conditions more often or more drastically, it is difficult to understand how wide spread this problem could be. Scientists are using "near-future conditions" for testing, therefore, posing that the current conditions could already be harmful for our fish. Seeing just how dangerous human activity can be should encourage the practice of reducing fossil fuels around the world.

Bittersweet Fracking Bill

2011-12-21T09:59:00.006-05:00

Just last week, Texas adopted regulations that require oil and gas companies to disclose the toxic chemicals used in their "fracking fluids". This rule will take place in Texas beginning February 1, 2012. Although a compromise, this bill is an effort between local, state, and national levels brought to the industry.

First of all, with Texas being our energy capital, it is surprising a bill such as this was passed. The legislation overcame many hurdles in the process including attempted delays to the bill, efforts to kill the bill in the Texas Senate, and industry dismissal of certain rules. Therefore, when this bill was passed through a politically difficult industry, a milestone moment was created.

Furthermore, although it is a step that the bill is passed, it is not of the best practice. The bill requires all wells fracked after February 1, 2012 to display detailed information on the chemical registry internet site about the chemicals sent down during the process. Unfortunately, this does not include wells drilled prior to the first of February and wells that are refracked after this date. In addition, some chemicals not regulated by OSHA do not require concentrations while other chemicals can be listed as "trade secret" in turn disclosing no information.

Despite the hard work from many environmental organizations, the bill turned out to be a mediocre version of what it was meant to be. Nonetheless, a bill was a passed; a big step towards making a difference. There is hope that the recent implementation will serve as a lesson on the need to become engaged in the matter.

Farming Upward

2011-12-16T12:05:00.006-05:00

Due to the great deal of chemicals used on today's produce we are losing fertile land quickly yet feeling the need to respond to a larger population. Topsoil is the basis by which our food is grown yet with the introduction of chemicals we have depleted the health of our soil and in turn our land. As a result, researchers have begun searching for alternatives such as vertical farming. This concept will help feed local areas efficiently and in a sustainable fashion. Basically, these indoor farms will be built upward in high rise buildings. The idea is that older buildings with no use will now become useful. In addition, the produce can be generated in the winter and will reduce outsourcing for some food products.

The main goal will be to produce a large amount of produce with little cost. These efficient farms will be located in urban areas to produce year round vegetables in hopes of restoring the eco-systems that were harmed by horizontal farming. The benefits of vertical farming are many. To name a few, year round crop production, no weather related crop failure, and no use of pesticides. In addition, vertical farming will create a sustainable environment for urban areas, it will not require tractor equipment therefore reducing the use of fossil fuels, and it will create jobs. These are only a few of the many advantages of vertical farming.

If we can make vertical cities why can't we mimic this idea on how we grow our produce? This thought for the future could create a localized sustainable food network if done efficiently.

Migratory Birds in Danger of Losing their Home

2011-12-05T10:13:00.007-05:00

The Pantego Wind Energy Facility is proposed for next year in northeastern North Carolina amounting to 49 turbines all towering to almost 500 feet tall. This project, will consume 11,000 acres residing in Beaufort County, just miles from Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Reserve; this is where the concerns come in. Many migratory birds, including swan and geese, share this space and cross through the area to relocate during the winter months. The main worry is that these turbines, spinning at 100 mph will swat these geese, swan, and even bats out of the air on their migration.

In response to the concerns of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Pantego is conducting bird counts from now until the spring to determine the dangers their wind turbines could potentially cause. Thus far, a few alternative ideas have been addressed in terms of the project. One solution is to provide additional habitats for these birds, another answer would be to eliminate some of the turbines or move them to other locations further away from the birds migration pathways. In the meantime, it is best to put the project on hold until more research is collected and the safety of these birds is assured.

The decision lies with the NC Utilities Commission and hearings on this matter have been scheduled for this Tuesday in Raleigh. Those against the matter will urge the commission to hold off until the potential threats can be assessed. We know the birds feed on the surrounding fields, how is it possible for the birds to be not be harmed in the case that these giant turbines are located in their home?

Carbon Free Transportation

2011-11-30T11:19:00.004-05:00

Organic Transit, makers of "the most efficient vehicles on the planet", was founded in 2009 by a few individuals interested in maximizing the efficiency of urban transportation. Rob Cotter, CEO of Organic Transit, is looking to design a vehicle between a car and a bike that can be driven on sidewalks and bike lanes. His design will be solar and pedal electric powered in order to maximize efficiency.

Commuter vehicle models, the "elf" and the "truckette", have been released and are intended for light weight deliveries and passengers, yet the public wants more. Cotter's ideas for the bike could be a huge step in personal urban transportation.

These vehicles have reached an efficiency level of 2370 mpg and can travel over 60 mph. All in all, they are light weight, non-polluting, inexpensive, and extremely practical. Like gas run vehicles, they have lights, turn signals, and automatic transmission. Yet, unlike gas run vehicles, they have a solar electric motor that weighs under 100 pounds. Finally, since these vehicles are legally a bicycle, they require no registration, licence, or insurance.

Organic Transit is located in Raleigh, North Carolina, therefore encouraging the Triangle to be the first to engage in these vehicles!

Make this holiday season eco-friendly

2011-11-28T10:27:00.002-05:00

Save money and the environment:

Invest in energy star qualified battery chargers: Electronics powered with energy star qualified chargers conserve 35 percent more energy than regular chargers. Get rid of old chargers by recycling them through manufacturers and retailers that have nation wide electronic recycling programs.

Energy Star Products: Shoppers can locate computers, monitors, and printers with Energy Star qualifications. A home fully dependent on Energy Star equipment can save around $380 over the lifetime of the product.

Entertainment with Energy Star approval: Televisions and Blue-ray disc players often can be found Energy Star qualified. These machines use 25 percent less energy than unqualified models.

Lighting up the house for the holiday: Look for Energy Star approval on LED string lights. These Energy Star acclaimed lights use about 70 percent less energy than incandescent lighting. Not only will they save one energy but they are also shock resistant, more durable, and cooler to the touch.

Recycle old electronics: New electronic gift? Research ways and places to recycle unwanted or outdated electronics. Many times parts of these electronics can be reused again and again.

Bring your own shopping bags: Rather than adding numerous plastic and paper shopping bags to the land fill, bring reusable bags on shopping trips; they are environmentally friendly and cost efficient.

Reuse and wrap: Don't spend money on buying wrapping paper for gifts, try using recycled paper and keep excess trash out of the landfills.

Water efficiency during the holidays: Holiday time encourages guests which equals more dishes and additional clean up; be mindful of the water used while cleaning dishes and preparing meals. Running the tap continuously can use up to two gallons of water each minute.

Capture the memories: Rather than using a disposable camera, use your own camera to reduce waste while taking picture throughout the holidays.

Recycle your Christmas tree: Find a use for your tree after the holidays; plant it in the yard or contact your community waste department to inquire about mulching your tree.

Unplug holiday lights during the day: This will not only save energy but it will make the lights last longer.

Consider hosting a make-your-own decorations party: Create ornaments from old greeting cards, make chains out of popcorn or cranberries, and wreaths from artificial greens and flowers.

Learn more:

About Energy Star efficiency

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=find_a_product.

A One Sided View on Fracking

2011-11-22T13:51:00.003-05:00

In a recent trip to Pennsylvania, Republican lawmakers were given a uneven representation of the hydraulic fracturing industry. The tour was lead by Chesapeake Energy, the world's top shale gas producer. State Senator Bob Rucho stated, "I was impressed with the best industry practices they've established", he also claims that he saw cows in grassy fields. Many believe that this tour was an unfair depiction of what hydraulic fracturing will do to North Carolina's water if it is allowed in our state. The lawmakers were included in industry sponsored tours and meetings yet never made contact with citizens effected by the hydraulic fracturing in Pennsylvania. Rob Jackson, a professor at Duke University exclaims, "Lawmakers really do need to get this right, and that means learning what they got right in Pennsylvania and what they didn't".

A second a trip for three additional lawmakers is expected to wrap up today. If the lawmakers don't see both sides of this argument, their decisions could be detrimental to North Carolina.

Salty Roads are a Danger to NC Amphibians

2011-11-15T16:08:00.003-05:00

As winter arrives we faces issues of ice on our roads, yet the amphibians in NC experience excessive amounts of salt in their ponds. James Petranka, a biologist at UNC-Asheville, researched the negative effects of road salt towards wildlife in North Carolina. Overall, he found that the salt delays the process of salamander larvae while helping mosquitoes lay more eggs.

The Department of Transportation spreads more than 250,000,000 pounds of salt North Carolina roads each year. Petranka questioned if this was detrimental for the native amphibians yet found that the salt effects their growth and tampers with the food chain. In his process to discover these facts, Petranka ran a series of experiments. He placed around 60 wading pools outside and filled them with aged water. Next, to make the pools mimic those that house the salamanders, he added algae, crustaceans, water fleas, and leaf litter. Finally, he added a salamander larvae from nature and salt mix, at the same levels found in the ponds. Above is a photo of Petranka's experimental pools.

Petranka found from his test that the salamander larvae growth was reduced since the salt terminated the water fleas that they eat. In addition, the mosquitoes flourished due to the lack of salamander larvae that usually prevent them from laying their eggs. Alternatives have to salting our roads have been evaluated yet most are far to expensive for the massive number of roads that need to be covered. Research continues to be done to find a better precaution for our roads in the winter.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

2011-11-11T10:04:00.006-05:00

Begin November with National Recycling Week! Join in from November 7th to the 13th and see what you can learn about recycling. This recycling conscious occasion was founded in 1996 by Planet Ark in order to bring awareness to communities and the media. Through the past 16 years, the national focus has been minimizing waste, broadening knowledge about recycling, and putting it into action.

The objectives for National Recycling Week, (NRW), this year is to educate students about the environmental assets that come from recycling, expand the number of businesses engaged in recycling, and advocate community re-use and recycling. Furthermore, NRW intends to increase ones access to accurate recycling information.

Recycling is important because it returns materials to use that would otherwise become waste contaminating the valuable resources on our Earth. At home, one can collect used bottles, cans, paper board, and newspapers and take them to the curb in order to make the first step in environmental returns. For a complete list of recyclable items check out: www.raleighnc.gov/recycling. Overall, recycling protects manufacturing jobs, reduces the need for landfills, saves energy, decreases pollution and Greenhouse gases, and sustains the Environment for future generations. To find a list of recyclable items and a recycling center near you: www.wakegov.com/recycling/residents/conveniencectrs.htm.

Duke and Progress Energy Refuse to Move on Solar

2011-06-22T16:35:00.002-04:00

Utility companies Duke and Progress Energy have mounted stiff opposition to state legislation that would increase their state mandate to provide more solar energy. Specifically, their current solar mandate for 2018 is a meager 0.2% of their entire energy portfolio (a benchmark Duke Energy has already admitted to having met), and many have called for increasing the goal to 0.4%.

On this point, Duke and Progress have been obstinate: they will not commit to doubling their investment in solar power, despite evidence from the NC Sustainable Energy Association predicting that the 1,350 jobs created in the solar industry last year could increase to about 8,350.

Current renewable energy standards for North Carolina mandate a 0.2% state utilities investment in solar and offer tax credits for clean energy. Thanks to these provisions, our state has jumped from being in the bottom ten solar-producing U.S. states to the 11th-largest in the country.

Duke Energy Carolinas now has about 21 megawatts of solar energy on its grid, but along with North Carolina’s other large state utility, Progress Energy, the company has vehemently fought against efforts to expand solar energy.

Experts from Carolina Solar Energy say that demand has been maxed out under the current 0.2% solar standard, and that an increase is required for the state to meet consumer demand for renewable, solar energy. Duke is widely known as the biggest nuclear energy provider in America, and along with Progress, still relies on dirty, nonrenewable sources such as coal, natural gas, and oil, for the majority of its energy portfolio.

Enough is enough. All that’s been proposed is a two-tenths of a percentage of an increase of these gigantic, polluting utilities’ investment in solar energy. The potential for jobs and economic growth is immense, not even to mention the vast environmental benefits of moving away from coal, oil, and gas.

Duke and Progress Energy, the ball’s in your court. It’s time to get moving on solar energy, now.

Leaking Storage Tanks

2011-06-03T11:16:00.002-04:00

Yesterday the legislature moved forward SB 181. This legislation shifts the cost of cleaning up toxic spills from leaking storage tanks from the responsible party to the public (gas taxes).

Currently, clean-ups are funded by tank fees paid by underground tank owners and public gas taxes. SB 181 would allow above ground tanks to be eligible for the funds. Currently, those operators have to pay for their own clean-up. It also does not require above ground tank operators to pay into the fund.

By expanding the universe of tank owners who could tap into the fund without requiring all sources to pay into the fund, there would be even less money available to clean up groundwater contamination. While the bill does not explicitly shift the costs to the motoring public through the gas tax, it's hard to see where else the clean-up funds would come from.

SB 181 also makes risk-based assessment available to all petroleum spills (not just those from underground tanks). Risk based assessment allows a lower level of clean-up. Basically, a certain level of contamination is allowed to exist at varying levels depending on the future use of the site. By failing to hold the responsible party fully accountable, the total clean-up costs are eventually passed on to the tax-payer.

Though there are many sites remaining to be cleaned up, the North Carolina LUST program --for all its shortcomings-- has resulted in the clean up of thousands of sites over the years and reduced the frequency and severity of new spills. It has also paid to provide families with alternate sources of drinking water when their wells are impaired. SB 181 puts this program at risk.

In the name of John Muir- Speak Up!!

2011-04-20T15:40:00.006-04:00

John Muir was a pretty remarkable guy to say the least. A naturalist, a conservationist, and most importantly, the founder of the Sierra Club! Now, tomorrow is John Muir's Birthday, and in celebration we are all headed out to the Regulatory Reform Hearing to let our voices be heard regarding environmental regulations. I'm sure he would be very proud of all of the hard work we are investing in our environment. Following the hearing, we will be hosting a birthday celebration in honor of Mr. Muir at the Busy Bee Cafe in downtown Raleigh, please join us!

Most importantly, this Thursday, April 21st, is the set date for the final Regulatory Reform Hearing in Raleigh from 1-3pm in the legislative auditorium. If you haven't yet heard of these hearings, their initial aim was to take a second look at regulations that may burden businesses. The reality is that this committee is attacking environmental regulations that protect our air and water regulations, and thereby, the health of the environment and ourselves! The last hearing, in Hendersonville, proved to be successful and over 130 people came out to serve as the voice of the environment. The Raleigh hearing is just as important, and we are looking for supporters to come and give public comments. For more information, or to sign up to speak, please email our volunteer coordinator at travis.hargett@sierraclub.org

Save the DENR!

2011-04-14T16:24:00.005-04:00

As you may, or may not, be aware, there are HUGE developments going on in the North Carolina General Assembly of late. The most recent travesty is the exorbitant budget cuts to the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources)that have been proposed within the past week. These budget cuts will result in hundreds of jobs being compromised or lost and would cripple the DENR's capacity to uphold environmental regulations by means of inspection and enforcement.

The divisions that would be experiencing such drastic cuts include Division of Water Quality, Division of Land Resources, Division of Air Quality, Division of Environmental Health, Division of Waste Management, and the Division of Soil and Water Conservation. Moreover, these cuts would eliminate 95 of 95 positions in Mooresville, would reduce positions in Raleigh by 42, leaving 45, would reduce positions in Fayetteville by 37, leaving 39, and would reduce positions in Asheville from 97 to 66. For a General Assembly that aims to create jobs for North Carolinians, these cuts are doing just the opposite. In addition, our personal health and wellness coupled with environmental and economic health are at risk as a result of these propositions.

Three former secretaries of the DENR have publicly stated their opposition to this budget proposal, will you do the same? Write a letter to the editor, contact your representative, or even better, head out to the Regulatory Reform Hearing TOMORROW in Western North Carolina and let your voice be heard!

The meeting will take place on Friday April 15th from 1pm to 3pm at Blue Ridge Community College in the Thomas Auditorium, 180 West Campus Drive, Flat Rock, NC. If you are interested in providing a 2 minute statement at the hearing, please arrive at 12:30pm or email Erica Geppi at erica.geppi@sierraclub.org for more information.

Sierra Club Earth Month Events

2011-04-13T15:31:00.003-04:00

The North Carolina Chapter of the Sierra Club will be sponsoring several events within the coming month, and we encourage you to come on out and participate! Bring a friend and come check out the following events with your fellow environmental enthusiasts:

- Monday April 18, 6:30-7:30pm: Sustainable Beer Happy Hour, Fullsteam Brewery (sponsored by Sierra Club & the Society of Conservation Biologists, Triangle Chapter.) Fullsteam founder/local beer activist Sean Wilson will join us to answer your questions about sustainable brewing. If you have an interest in the local beer community or the environmental impacts of what you drink, our Q&A with Sean will be a great opportunity to learn more-- while drinking tasty beer and meeting neat people!

- Tuesday, April 19, 7-8:30pm: "Defending Our Environment" Panel + Q&A, Carolina Student Union, Room 3205 (sponsored by the Sierra Student Coalition.) Learn about the history of the EPA, how current events will impact our progress on environmental issues, and what's going on now in Washington and in Raleigh as lawmakers take apart decades of bipartisan legislation defending our environment. Featuring Sierra Club's superstar lobbyist Will Morgan(!!!), as well as Pete Andrews (UNC Public Policy), Donald Hornstein (UNC Law), Derb Carter (Southern Environmental Law Center), Pricey Harrison (NC General Assembly, D- Greensboro). Free food catered by Med Deli.

- Thursday, April 21, 1-3pm: NC General Assembly Regulatory Reform Hearing, Legislative Building Auditorium (16 W. Jones Street; Raleigh, NC 27601). The NC General Assembly has held hearings across the state to solicit suggestions for getting rid of bills that "kill jobs." Celebrate John Muir's 173rd by speaking out in support of North Carolina's environmental and public health protections. We'll have talking points for folks to use, and after the hearing, we'll head over to the Busy Bee Cafe for drinks and food to say "Cheers" to Mr. Muir.

- Thursday, April 21, 7-8pm: Presentation on Offshore Wind at the Capital Group Meeting, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Raleigh (3313 Wade Avenue Raleigh, NC 27607.) Make a day out of your trip to Raleigh, and come hear Jen Banks (NC Solar Center) and Mac Montgomery (former mayor of Kure Beach and member of the Governor's Offshore Energy Panel) discuss the incredible potential for offshore wind energy in NC. Wine and cheese provided.

- Sunday, May 1, 12-5pm: Durham Earth Day Festival, Durham Central Park (201 Foster St.) Come visit the NC Sierra Club's booth at the Durham Earth Day Festival. We'll be getting postcard petitions to Jim Rogers (Duke Energy) and Bill Johnson (Progress Energy) signed in support of offshore wind, and giving out our snazzy new "First in Flight, First in Wind" bumper stickers.

Earth Day Events

2011-04-11T16:16:00.003-04:00

So Earth Day is right around the corner and that means that it is time to get out into your community and take part in all of the great Earth Day activities that are occurring. Here are just a few:

Asheville: Check out Asheville Earth Day in downtown Asheville on Saturday April 16th. There will be live music tons of green things to do, and best of all- it's FREE!

Wilmington: Lace up those running shoes and head out to the Race for the Planet 5k in Wilmington at the aquarium on April 15th at 4pm. There will be free t-shirts for all runners and even live entertainment following the end of the race!

Greensboro: Check out Patrick Dougherty's sustainable sculpture exhibit at Guilford College in Greensboro. This sculpture will remain on display for a year, but Earth Day would be a great time to show your appreciation for sustainable art!

Raleigh: Check out Raleigh's Planet Earth Celebration downtown on April 16th. There will be live music, earth-friendly art, local foods, and even the opportunity to recycle old electronics. This is event is free and open to the public from 11am to 5pm.

Also gotriangle buses will be providing free rides on April 16th so make sure to take advantage of this opportunity! Also, check out gotriangle's Smart Commute Challenge.

For more events going on in your area, check out the News and Observer's Green Scene blog.

So, get in the spirit of Earth Day and head out into your community this week!

Gas is Going Up, and So is Bus Ridership!

2011-04-06T15:55:00.003-04:00

Within the last couple of months, we have all been feeling that painful, stinging feeling every time we swipe our cards to fill up the tank. What with gas prices pushing upwards of $4 in the months to come, North Carolinians are taking measures to cut costs in any way that they can. With that being said, people are ditching their cars and taking the bus to work or school instead. An article in the Midtown Raleigh News outlined the increase in ridership on the bus systems throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel, Hill, and Cary. Trends have shown an increase use of buses in the Triangle area within the last few months which correlates to increasing gas prices. Raleigh alone experienced an 11.2% increase in CAT ridership compared to this time last year. Wake County is looking to make even more improvements to the transit system within the coming years, even considering a referendum to supplement the costs of these improvements. So, if you are feeling the pinch of gas prices on your wallet, why not try the bus instead? You can save money, and help the environment!

Repurposing, its simple!

2011-04-04T15:57:00.002-04:00

So, have you ever wondering what you were going to do with your outdated technology? Sure, we encourage recycling, but why not repurpose first? Turn your old floppy disks (whatever those things are) into a bag, your cassette tapes into ipod covers, old ear buds into speakers, a seldom used blender into a lamp, or those useless road maps (thanks gps) into a basket! These projects are great for the environment and tons of fun for the average do-it-yourselfer!

Actually, repurposing is gaining popularity on national level as well. Yellowstone National Park is taking the discarded plastic bottles of over 3.5 million visitors per year and turning them into artificial turf! While, its better to avoid plastic bottles in the first place, we can appreciate the "repurposing" of these containers!

Remember, repurposing is not limited to DIY websites. So, be creative and think of something to repurpose today!

Brick by Brick for Conservation

2011-03-31T16:05:00.007-04:00

Fun Fact: Buildings consume over 40% of our energy, 71% of our electricity, and emit 37% of all greenhouse gases!

This is why environmental regulations on commercial and residential buildings are so important. It is clear that energy consumption needs to be controlled and North Carolina cities and municipalities are beginning to realize this. In the North Carolina General Assembly this week, an act was filed that will allow Carrboro to adopt the 2012 NC Energy Conservation Code. This is great news! Carrboro's initiative with this proposal will result in tremendous energy savings for homeowners and businesses within the area.

About the 2012 NC Energy Conservation Code:
This code aims to increase energy efficiency by 15% in residential areas and 30% in commercial areas where there is new construction. Implementation of this code will result in North Carolina, on the whole, saving between $50 to $70 million per year in energy savings alone for homeowners and businesses. Interestingly enough, the payback period for this proposal is only roughly 2 to 8 years which yields an annual rate of return on the investment of 14% to 47%.

It's safe to say that businesses across the state of North Carolina will benefit from the NC Energy Conservation Code. As the code becomes more popular, as seen in the recent filing request for building codes for Carrboro, the success of this proposal will be widespread.

Building codes with conservation in mind: We can't complain!

Waste, a Terrible Thing to Waste!

2011-03-28T21:34:00.003-04:00

Recycling seems to have become the latest fad, but its safe to say that monitoring initial consumption is much more important than recycling. That's why reusable bottles are encouraged over recycling plastic ones right? Today, we are going to take a look at two programs happening in Wake County: Styrofoam recycling and composting!

Styrofoam, the petroleum based product we all know and love, has become an increasingly serious problem across the United States. Many municipal recycling programs do not find value in Styrofoam recycling, but Wake County is currently taking steps in exploring the feasibility of implementing such a program in our area. Through this program, only non-food Styrofoam could be recycled and the material, after processing, would be resold to manufacturers for use. While still in the pilot stages, a recycling program such as this would only serve to benefit the Wake County community, and even diminish the amount of waste ending up in landfills every year. However, if our objective is to reduce waste in landfills, then we must be conscious of those products that we consume in the first place- remember: REDUCE first, then REUSE, and then RECYCLE when you don't have another option! For more information on the pilot program, check out this link

Waste not! This motto holds true for composting, another phenomenon that is taking Wake County by storm. On May 7th from 9am to 3pm, Raleigh Recycling and Wake County will be co-sponsoring a compost bin sale at 4121 New Bern Ave in Raleigh. Larger bins and kitchen sized bins will be available, all for reasonable prices! Waste really is a terrible thing to waste and compost bins are a great option for those of us who want to get the most out of our food- literally! For more information on the bin sale, check out this link

Get Your Enviro-Action On!

2011-03-25T15:43:00.006-04:00

With Earth Day right around the corner, its time to get your environmental action on! Check our website here for information on environmental topics that are at the top of the North Carolina Sierra Club's priority list! We could use your help in contacting your representatives to let them know that environmental agendas must be taken seriously in the state of North Carolina.

Another way to get involved is through local volunteer activities. Wake County will serve as host to the 9th Annual Neuse River Cleanup on Saturday April 2nd, 2011 from 8am to 2pm. For more information about this event, including registration and sponsor information, check out their website.

Better yet- maybe its time to make a life change! The Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University has recently created a 'Job Board' where environmental and related jobs are listed, and the best part is, its not just for students! What better way to get in the environmental spirit than to devote an entire career to the field? The NCSU website can be found here.

Another great way to support environmental efforts is to purchase an environmentally friendly vehicle! Easy enough right? Moreover, are you tired of people teasing you about your 'manly' Prius? For those of you who have around $845,000 to drop on the latest hybrid vehicle, Porsche is now accepting orders for its 918 Spyder hybrid that boasts a tops speed of 199 mph, but also is amazingly fuel efficient at a staggering 78 mpg! "Hot Hybrid" pictures can be found here. We encourage you to just go ahead and buy the new Porsche, let's just call it a splurge or an impulse buy. Don't worry, we can justify it through its environmental friendliness, right?

So, with that, make sure you take the time to make some environmental changes today- volunteer, apply, but most importantly let your voice be heard by your representatives. We value our North Carolina environmental advocates, and we want our representatives to do the same!

Wind Turbines: A Bird's Best Friend?

2011-03-24T16:37:00.005-04:00

With the increasing popularity of wind energy throughout the United States, we are seeing more and more wind turbines come up across the nation. These turbines, are frequently met with opposition and are often credited with the destruction of local bird populations. A new study published in the Journal of Ornithology, however, reveals the true bird killers: cats.

Yes, that's right, your dear kitty, Miss. Princess, and many more of her kind kill over 500 million (yes MILLION) birds each year! Whereas these extremely "destructive" wind turbines that apparently massacre bird populations, interestingly enough, only seem to kill around 440,000 birds per year. Turbines definitely do more good than harm and ornithologists simply encourage habitat consciousness when installing the turbines to ensure that they are not interfering with migration patterns or nesting grounds.

As it turns out, our beloved household felines may be more predatory than we realize. And not to be technical, but cats are also classified as an invasive species within the United States. So, the next time someone tries to argue the bird killing qualities of wind turbines, simply suggest an invasive species eradication policy to be enacted. Kill the kittens and save the birds- that should shut them up!

Read more here

Calling All Plug-Ins!

2011-03-02T17:59:00.001-05:00

Raleigh, NC has recently been selected to host the "Plug-in International Conference" this summer, hosted by the Electric Power Research Institute in collaboration with the Silicon Valley Research Group.

This selection is the result of extensive efforts by the city to make Raleigh more electric vehicle friendly. Within the past year, Raleigh has installed several electric car charging stations including those near City Hall, the Convention Center, and NC State's Centennial Campus. With a generous initial donation from an Ohio based company, Raleigh as set a goal of installing at least 30 charging stations throughout the city by September of 2011.

What with the "Plug-in International Conference" being hosted in Raleigh, the first location outside of California, it seems appropriate that the city is making strides towards become more electric vehicle accessible.

Speaking of accessibility, why not access an electric vehicle for yourself?

This weekend the State Farmer's Market in Raleigh will be hosting the new Nissan LEAF!
You can test drive this fully electric vehicle by pre-registering online here.

The LEAF will be in Raleigh on March 4-5 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m on Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m on Sunday.

Make sure to stop by the Farmer's Market to learn more about this vehicle, it's features, and this great technology!

New Rule: No New Rules!

2011-02-08T13:19:00.003-05:00

Lawmakers have begun the 2011 session by debating a piece of legislation that promises to bog down the already protracted administrative rule making process, if passed.

Senate Bill 22, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Harry Brown, would bar state agencies from adopting any new rule that leads to higher costs to taxpayers or users, without the consent of the General Assembly. The measure makes a few exceptions for rule changes made to comply with a federal regulation, a court order, a change in state budgetary policy or an unforeseen threat to public health and safety. Even so, the broad sweep of SB22 would affect every agency in the state and effectively turn the legislature into micro-managers.

Using the Administrative Procedures Act, state agencies formulate scores of rules each year as they put into effect the laws passed by the General Assembly and update existing rules. The current rule-making process provides numerous opportunities to assess the cost of any new rule, allows for input from the public and those affected and provides review by the legislature.

The Administrative Procedures Act, the governing law for rule-making, currently requires all North Carolina state agencies to prepare a fiscal analysis of any new rule that would have “a substantial economic impact” and describe the persons who would be affected by the proposed change and the types of expenditures they would incur. The agencies and commissions that currently consider new rules have the resources and expertise to analyze the impact of new rules.

Under the current system, proposed new rules also are subject to public comment and undergo a rigorous multi-step review by the Rules Review Commission. If the Rules Review Commission approves the rule and those affected still object, they can ask the legislature to review it. North Carolina’s regulatory process strikes a careful balance between accommodation and protection of resources as recognized by business publications. Forbes magazine and chiefexecutive.net recently ranked North Carolina among the Top 3 states in their rankings of places to do business.

Molly Diggins, state director of the North Carolina Chapter of the Sierra Club, expressed concern that SB 22 would ban any new rule that cost an extra dollar or two without taking into account the bigger picture of the millions or dollars or thousands of lives the rule might save over time.

Diggins said the North Carolina General Assembly lacks the resources or expertise to review every single petition for rule-making from every single agency and would have to hire new staff and lengthen the legislative session to address all the necessary rule changes throughout the year.

Right now, SB 22 is what needs a lot of scrutiny by a lot of legislative committees to understand its full impacts and unintended consequences.

We're on Top of Coal Ash

2010-06-25T15:37:00.000-04:00

On Monday, EPA published its proposed coal ash regulations in the Federal Registrar. If you happen to be going to the beach this weekend here is the link to this light summer reading. Of course you can also check out a brief summary at earthjustice.

For North Carolina and our 17 coal ash sites, it's imperative that the EPA regulate coal ash as a 'special waste'. This stronger regulation will close wet ponds within 5 years, mandate groundwater monitoring and most importantly allow for federal oversight and enforcement. The other weaker option would only suggest recommendations that would not be enforceable by EPA.

In order to ensure we get the stronger rule the Sierra Club is launching a grassroots campaign to educate the public and our leaders. Rep. Pricey Harrison has started circulating a sign-on letter that will be sent to EPA asking that we get a public hearing. Our big 'ask' right now, is that you call your state legislator and request that he/she sign that letter.

I also spoke with people from EPA, if you want to contact EPA directly and ask for a hearing in NC you can use these two emails.

livnat.alexander@epa.gov and souders.steve@epa.gov

Alex and Steve will be making the final decisions on where these hearings are located. Please take a minute to email them. I'd even make the request in the emails subject line. ex. PLEASE HOLD COAL ASH HEARING IN NC.

We're expecting to hear about the final locations in July. Until then we'll be busy creating a drum beat around this important issue.

Horseshoe Farm Park will be eco-friendly

2010-06-16T13:26:00.000-04:00

In 2007 a coalition of local citizen activists including the Capital Group Sierra Club, the N.C. Wildlife Federation and the Wake Audubon Society won a battle to develop Horseshoe Farm park as passive recreational area instead of an intensive use park. Now, the city has taken it a step further and has decided that the 146 acre park sitting on an oxbow of the Neuse River will be built using innovative, environmental friendly designs and construction methods.

Plans are still being drawn up, Bentley said, but design and construction methods being considered include special concrete for parking lots that allows water to seep through instead of running off into the Neuse River, plantings that do not need to be watered and would help the park be built without the need for city water, and "zero waste" construction methods.

"Anything you grade or cut down or dig up, you use on site," Bentley said. "You don't put anything in the landfill."

It's really impressive that they can develop zero waste construction methods. Having worked on construction sites before I know there is a lot of waste created during every step. The project is part of the Sustainable Sites Initiative, a partnership of the American Society of Landscape Architects, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin and the United States Botanic Garden.

I think the city really got the message that those citizen activists were sending back in 2007. Hopefully we'll see more of this in the future.

Art the Sierra Club way.

2010-06-14T17:32:00.004-04:00

I've been following one of our new blogs titled Sierra Club Trails. Every week or so Suzanne Fierston posts a blog about nature art. Suzanne is an active member of the Club, she herself is an artist, but she also teaches art to children. These two pictures represent the simplicity, but also the beauty of her work with children.

The first was done with charcoal and leaves. The kids covered the leaves in charcoal, placed the leaves in their sketchbooks and then pressed them(the kids stomped on them.)The second used photo paper,sticks/flowers and sunlight. You let the objects sit on top of the photo paper and let it bask in the sun for a few minutes. After a quick rinse under water, the image will appear minutes later.

If you add in a nice summer wine and some good snacks, you could have yourself a splendid day in the park and have something to show for it too!

House works to remove liability cap for hazardous spills off our coast

2010-06-10T15:15:00.002-04:00

Today, the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee took the first steps to remove a cap that limits the financial liability of corporations responsible for oil or hazardous waste spills off our coast. Currently North Carolina follows the federal cap which is placed at the cost of clean up, plus 75 million. The main provision of Senate Bill 836 completely removes the State's tie to the federal liability cap.

Over the last few weeks there has been a lot of debate at the national level on whether or not the cap should be raised to 10 billion. Although the US Senate has not yet acted, its great to see the General Assembly moving quickly to insure North Carolina is capable of handling a potential spill.

The bill also requires that the Coastal Resources Commission review existing laws and regulations pertaining to offshore energy exploration and production and make recommendations to the Environmental Review Commission before October of 2011. Along those same lines the bill also directs the Department of Public Safety to review and update the State's oil spill contingency plan.

The bill now moves to Judiciary 1 for its consideration.

Duke Energy reviewing position on mountaintop removal

2010-06-08T17:51:00.001-04:00

Duke Energy is reviewing their position on the mining process of mountaintop removal. An article published June 7, 2010 provides a ray of hope for those concerned about the impacts of this practice. Considering the harm mountaintop removal can cause to the mountain, nearby valleys and streams, and local communities, it is encouraging to see Duke Energy reviewing their position on such a practice. This is a positive step towards protecting the mountains and valleys in North Carolina and beyond.

Policy Brief: Water Resources

2010-06-04T17:07:00.001-04:00

WATER RESOURCES
Senate Bill 907/ House Bill 1101: Water Resource Policy Act of 2009
Senate Bill 1170/ House Bill 1763: Improve River Basin Modeling

With North Carolina’s population expected to grow to 12 million by 2030, preventative measures against water shortages are necessary. Two droughts, from 1998-2002 and from 2005-2008, strained the State’s water supply and promoted the Water Resource Policy Act of 2009.

This Act, Senate Bill 907/House Bill 1101, would provide a new system of water regulations that would require permits for big users and create supply budgets for the communities in the 17 river basins throughout the state. Though supported by the environmental community, including NC Sierra Club, the bill has stalled in committee and will not see movement during the 2010 short legislative session.

Despite no movement this legislative session for S907/H1101, detailed, scientific information on North Carolina water resources is necessary to take preventative measures and this information is what a newly introduced bill aims to collect. Senate Bill 1170/House Bill 1763, Improve River Basin Modeling, is a data collection bill that focuses on gathering scientific information regarding the status of North Carolina river basins, including stream flow and water withdrawals. The bill focuses on developing hydrologic models for the 17 major river basins in the State for more accurate current and predictive models. The bill also aims to improve public access to water and water resource funding information and to provide reporting on water use efficiency in the State.

This bill was filed in both Chambers of the NC General Assembly at the beginning of the 2010 legislative session and has been referred to the Committee on Water Resources and Infrastructure in the House and the Committee on Agriculture/Environment/Natural Resources in the Senate. The NC Sierra Club supports S1170/H1763 and will follow its progress during the 2010 legislative session.

American Power Act/ Richard Burr attack ad

2010-06-01T12:40:00.002-04:00

In the midst of the Gulf oil spill, we're pushing for the passage of the American Power Act. I found this short overview the Huffington Post put out a couple weeks ago.

If you want to insure that an environmental disaster like the Gulf oil spill never happens in North Carolina give us a call at 919-833-8467 or email us at north.carolina.chapter@gmail.com to see how you can get involved.

Obama cancels drilling lease off coast of Virginia

2010-05-27T18:18:00.001-04:00

Earlier this morning the President canceled the proposed drilling lease off the coast of Virginia. Here's what the Director of the Virginia Sierra Club had to say about the announcement.

“The economic and environmental disaster that is currently unfolding on the Gulf Coast underscores the inherent and unavoidable risks that would come with drilling off Virginia’s coast – risks that have been well known for many years. It’s unfortunate that it took a disaster such as this to finally bring to light just how mistaken it would be to drill off Virginia’s coast.”

Any spill that would have potentially occurred off Virginia's coast would have had a devastating effect up and down the eastern seaboard. As you can see from the map of the lease area, North Carolina's outer banks could potentially bear the brunt of an oil spill off Virginia's coast.

While we're pleased with the President's decision to cancel the lease,we also realize that there is much work to be done. The Sierra Club is committed to enacting a total moratorium on all new off-shore drilling projects. More importantly, this is an opportune time for the President to set in motion a plan that will get us off oil over the next 20 years. We already have clean energy solutions, now we need the political will to implement them.

Coal Ash bill moves in General Assembly

2010-05-26T20:34:00.002-04:00

COAL ASH
House Bill 2012: Regulate Certain Coal-Ash Structural Fill

Late last night House bill 2012/Senate bill 1419, Regulate Certain Coal-Ash Structural Fill, was filed. Primary sponsors being Representatives Harrison, Luebke, Fisher and Insko, the bill requires the possession of a permit by solid waste disposal sites for the reuse or disposal of certain solid wastes in order to protect both the public health and the environment. Specifically, this legislation would, for the first time, regulate the way in which dry coal ash is handled, dealt with, and stored.

As we all know power plants that burn coal, emit coal ash waste. Coal ash is primarily composed of heavy metals like mercury, selenium, cadmium and arsenic. Exposure to these metals can potentially lead to cancer and nervous system damage.

Although the EPA is working to regulate coal ash, currently it is not designated as a hazardous material. As a result, the use and storage of coal ash takes place with absolutely zero oversight. The figures associated with coal ash production in North Carolina are significant. North Carolina is the second highest importer of coal, spending nearly $2.3 billion yearly. NC spending per capita on coal was approximately $254 per person in 2008, the third largest of any state, while per capita spending on energy efficiency was roughly $0.75 per person, the national average being $7.

Between 2008 and 2009 North Carolina power plants produced approximately 3.8 million tons of dry coal ash. Over 800,000 tons was used as fill material, greater than one million tons was used as in road paving projects, as a soil additives,or as a manufacturing ingredients. The remaining 1.7 million tons were disposed of in landfills or wet ponds. House Bill 2012 will for the first time offer a mechanism to regulate the disposal of dry coal ash. The Sierra Club fully supports this bill and will advocate for it throughout the session. Although the EPA continues to delay action on this issue, perhaps North Carolina will move first.

Policy Brief: Risk Remediation

2010-05-25T16:43:00.001-04:00

RISK REMEDIATION
House Bill 1575: Accelerate Remediation of Manufacturing Sites

Remediation refers to the restoration of a contaminated environmental site to the condition where it does not threaten human health or other life forms. Risk-based remediation requires a clean up according to the anticipated future use of the site, meaning partial cleanups may occur and the site may stay at unhealthy contamination levels.

There are areas in North Carolina that are contaminated by hazardous waste and toxic materials, which threaten the health and safety of the public and the environment. In North Carolina, over 50% of the population depends on groundwater for its drinking water and the population is growing. It is in the public’s best interest that contaminated sites are cleaned up in a manner that protects the health and welfare of the public and the environment. Risk-based remediation does not guarantee full site cleanup.

House Bill 1575 is an act to expand the circumstances under which the Department of Environment and Natural Resources shall allow for risk-based remedial action at contaminated manufacturing sites. In order to speed up remediation at contaminated manufacturing sites, this bill will allow risk-based remediation and would therefore weaken state requirements for cleanup of contaminated groundwater at these sites. The bill would also allow polluters to pay a fee instead of fully cleaning their contaminated sites and therefore North Carolina Sierra Club opposes H1575. Currently sitting in the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, NC Sierra Club will be tracking H1575 throughout the 2010 Short Session.

Help Rush Limbaugh become Sierra Club's Top Fundraiser

2010-05-21T17:34:00.001-04:00

This will be the only post all year you see the Sierra Club associated with Rush Limbaugh. If you haven't heard Rush told his listeners "When do we ask the Sierra Club to pick up the tab for this leak." Everyone at the Club is outraged over his comments, but then again it's publicity we're not letting go to waste. In response we're giving folks the opportunity to make a donation in his name. Listen to the audio clip below and then click on the link below to help promote clean energy solutions.

Rush Limbaugh's Sierra Club Fundraiser!

Policy Brief: Steep Slopes

2010-05-21T14:49:00.001-04:00

Today the Asheville Citizen-Times ran an article focusing on state Rep. Bruce Goforth's proposed steep slope legislation. We're continuing our series of policy briefs with a detailed look at this legislation.

STEEP SLOPES

House Bill 782: Safe Artificial Construction Act of 2009
House Bill 1870: Safe Artifical Construction Act of 2010

The mountainous areas of North Carolina, primarily in the Western region of the state, have significant landslide hazards. In 2004, intense rainfalls from the remnants of two hurricanes triggered at least 130 landslides causing multiple deaths, destruction of homes, and disruption of transportation networks. Unstable slopes and the development that occurs on them threatens human safety and property these threats must be examined so action can be taken to reduce risk. House Bill 782 is looking to create a commission to study this risk, but has stalled in the General Assembly. House Bill 1870 was introduced at the beginning of the 2010 Legislative Session and requires local regulation.

The North Carolina Geological Survey has determined that the majority of Western North Carolina is at high risk for landslides and the insurance industry is aware of this. Home insurance policies deny coverage for damage caused by landslides and slope failures in North Carolina. Mountainside development has increased rapidly in the area, resulting in more individuals exposed to landslide hazards. Improper development also increases the threat to human safety and property.

The risks that landslides pose to Western North Carolina have been acknowledged in the North Carolina House of Representatives with House Bill 1870, the Safe Artificial Slope Construction Act of 2010. This bill plans to require local governments to adopt ordinances to regulate site planning, design, and construction of artificial slopes in mountainous areas and to create and direct the Sedimentation Control Commissions to assist local governments in development and implementation of safe slop construction programs and to develop a model ordinance. The purpose of this bill is to provide for a cooperative program of safe artificial slope construction to be administered by local governments consistent with minimum statewide management requirements established by the Sedimentation Control Commission.

North Carolina Sierra Club supports this Act because there is a significant landslide risk in Western North Carolina and human safety and protection of property is vital. H1870 is currently in the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources and North Carolina Sierra Club will track the movement of this bill during the 2010 Legislative Session.

Policy Brief: Titan Cement

2010-05-19T16:09:00.001-04:00

The NC Sierra Club wants to keep you informed on all the bills we're following during the short session. Over the next couple weeks we'll be rolling out these policy briefs in an attempt to do that. The following was written by Kim Rankin an intern from Duke who is tracking a number of policy issues for the Sierra Club.

TITAN CEMENT AND SEPA

Senate Bill 699 / House Bill 1462: Cement Plant Moratorium and Study
Senate Bill 778: Eliminate Overlap Between CAMA and SEPA

A recent ruling by a Wake County Superior Court Judge has both citizens and environmental groups waiting to see what Titan America will do next. Titan America has plans to develop a cement plant on the banks of the Cape Fear River and requested air quality permits to begin construction on the plant from the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Community advocates petitioned the Department of Administration to stop the permit consideration and require an environmental impact review under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). However, the Department of Administration supported DENR’s actions and in response, community advocates brought a lawsuit against the state to a Wake County Superior Court, demanding an environmental review under SEPA. The Judge ruled in favor of the environmental organizations, requiring a comprehensive environmental impact review of Titan’s project before permits could be issued. The community is now waiting to see if Titan America will appeal the ruling, meanwhile a bill urging for a moratorium on cement plants in North Carolina sits in the General Assembly.

In 2008, Titan American received an incentive package of $4.5 million to build the nation’s fourth largest cement plant in Castle Hayne, NC, just outside Wilmington, NC. The cement plant will add only 160 jobs to New Hanover County, and citizens, the Sierra Club and other environmental groups alike oppose it because the plant will destroy 1,000 acres of wetlands and will release air pollutants like mercury and hydrochloric acid in an area already impaired by mercury contamination. Nearly 200 local physicians signed a petition opposing the Titan cement plant, which would become the 5th largest emitter of mercury in the state.

As a requirement for the wetlands permit sought from the Army Corps of Engineers in Wilmington, Titan America began an environmental review in 2008 under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which would fulfill the citizen-demanded environmental review in New Hanover County. However, Titan put the effort on hold to focus on obtaining air quality permits through DENR, claiming it will continue the review once the permits are issued. Against public outcry, DENR moved forward with consideration of the permits, even issuing a draft permit without any request for an environmental impact review. Local citizens and environmental groups petitioned the North Carolina Department of Administration for an environmental review of the project, claiming it was against the law to issue permits before a review under SEPA. However, the Department of Administration supported DENR’s actions, stating that SEPA does not apply to Titan because they are not receiving public money.

This led to a lawsuit between the North Carolina Department of Administration and the Duke Environmental Law and Policy Clinic and the Southern Environmental Law Center, both of which together represented the environmental groups Pender Watch and Conservancy, North Carolina Coastal Federation, and Cape Fear River Watch. The Duke Environmental Law and Policy Clinic and the Southern Environmental Law Firm rightly argue that SEPA does apply to Titan. SEPA is required when a project is built on public land or with public money and has serious potential environmental impacts and the law firms argued that the incentive package is considered public money.

On Monday, May 3, 2010, Wake County Superior Court Judge Donald W. Stephens ruled that Titan is subject to a SEPA environmental review, the state incentive package is considered public money, and that the State must stop all permitting processes until the review is completed. This ruling may delay the project up to two years and it is currently unknown if Titan America or the State will appeal the ruling. A press release issued by Titan stated they are “disappointed” in the Judge’s ruling and are “evaluating next steps.” If Titan continues its initial review under NEPA for the wetlands permit, it will satisfy the requirements of SEPA.

Senate Bill 699 and its companion House Bill 1462, Cement Plant Moratorium and Study, attempts to place a moratorium on consideration of permit applications and issuance of permits for the construction and operation of cement plants in North Carolina until September 1, 2010 and to direct the Environmental Review Commission to begin a study of issues related to the environmental impacts of cement plants. North Carolina Sierra Club supports this bill because the cement industry is a polluted one and a study must be done of the environmental impacts of such a plant, particularly in the wake of the Titan America cement plant court case.

Senate Bill 778 attempts to eliminate overlap between the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) and the State Environmental Protection Act (SEPA). Currently under NC laws, coastal projects need to get approval under CAMA but large projects that have the potential for substantial environmental impacts must also be approved under SEPA. S778, which North Carolina Sierra Club opposes, would exempt CAMA projects from SEPA. This would eliminate opportunities for concerned citizens to offer comments during the CAMA permit process due to the elimination of the SEPA pre-review where explanations for the need of the project, assessments of environmental impacts and potential mitigation, and analysis of alternatives would be released. This is also concerning in the light of the Titan America lawsuit, as Carolinas Cement intends on building the cement plant in a coastal area.

Senate Bill 699 is currently in the Senate Committee on Appropriations and Base Budget. House Bill 1462 is currently in the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. Senate Bill 778 is currently in the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. North Carolina Sierra Club is the lead lobby group on the Titan America cement plant issue and will be tracking the progress of these bills during the General Assembly 2010 Summer Legislative Session.

New Building Codes

2010-05-18T13:26:00.000-04:00

This coming October the International Codes Council is holding a conference in Charlotte to vote on new building code proposals. The Sierra Club is supporting an initiative called the “30% Solution 2012.” This plan would increase energy efficiency by thirty percent in new residential construction. Today, buildings are the largest source of energy waste in the country. They consume over 40 percent of the nation’s energy and 71 percent of our electricity.

The code is amended every three years and is the model energy code recognized by federal statute. The proposal the Sierra Club supports mandates a number of energy efficiency enhancements, the most prominent being, improved insulation w/ inspection,comprehensive air sealing and testing for air ducts, requirements for efficient hot water distribution systems and requirements for reduced envelope infiltration along with energy recovery ventilation.

Any local government official can attend and vote at the ICC conference. Typically, the best turnout comes from voting members in the host state. That means that North Carolina will play a major role influencing decisions that affect energy efficiency across the country. We’ll be working hard to send local officials to the conference and hopefully together we can reduce our energy consumption.

Good Jobs, Green Jobs- Smart grids

2010-05-05T13:50:00.000-04:00

I'm spending the week in DC at the Good Jobs, Green Jobs conference. It's hosted by the BlueGreen Alliance an organization working to bring together labor unions and environmentalists. The alliance is helping to transform our economy by promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency, mass transit etc... All in an effort to create jobs for working Americans and at the same time reverse the effects of global warming.

Yesterday, I was able to sit in on a great seminar about smartgrid technology. NC State Senator Jo Sam Queen was on the panel and members of the NC Communication Workers of America also attended. Basically a smart grid relies on the expansion of broadband services across the country. Yet at this basic level the U.S. faces a big challenge. Currently in the U.S. 100 million people don't have broadband and over 14 million couldn't even if they wanted to. Those stats make us 15th in the world, behind South Korea, Japan and others. If you look at this from an economic perspective it's a great opportunity to create thousands of jobs, while at the same time creating a network that advances the medical, education and energy fields.

What I want to focus on is smart meters and how individuals can potentially manage their own power consumption. In today's world we turn the lights on, crank the AC and never really know how that decision is affecting our electric bill. With a smart meter we would be able to see exactly how we are consuming energy. You could potentially pull out your iphone and see exactly how much your spending on your AC or on that big flat screen TV. This knowledge empowers the average citizen and provides them with financial incentives to purchase more energy efficient appliances or simply decrease their energy use.

Studies have shown that consumers who track their energy consumption in real time save 5 to 15 percent or $60 to $180 per year. Smart meters would also enable dynamic pricing, this would allow home owners the opportunity to reduce their energy consumption during peak hours, save money and create a more reliable grid. If just half of American households cut their demand by 10 percent we could offset the C02 emissions of eight million cars. As Senator Queen said all we need is "a shot-gun wedding between utilities and the networking industry."

More to come from Green Jobs Good Jobs.

News on the oil spill

2010-04-30T16:06:00.001-04:00

With the gulf oil spill looming overhead,our friends over at Environment North Carolina went to Wilimington yesterday for public hearings that focused on offshore drilling exploration in NC waters. Here's what they had to say.

“It makes no sense to threaten the Outer Banks--and the rest of our coast--for a few months worth of oil and gas,” said Ouzts. “Instead when we should unleash the real energy independence solutions: wind power, solar power, clean fuels, and efficiency.”

Unfortunately,President Obama is not getting the message. At a press conference today he told reporters that “I continue to believe that domestic oil production is an important part of our overall strategy for energy security." Of course it's unrealistic to believe we can totally eliminate our off-shore drilling industry, but now is the time to highlight the risks associated with fossil fuels.

David Axelrod told us that the President's offshore drilling plan will be postponed until a comprehensive review of the spill has been completed. This is good news, but once again it seems like the President is missing a great opportunity to present alternative fuels as a solution.

On another front it looks like we have an ally in Senator Bill Nelson(D-Fla.)Here's what politico had to say earlier today.

Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) is calling for a halt to all oil exploration off the U.S. coasts. Nelson also urged Obama to impose an immediate halt to any other test wells and exploratory activity in coastal waters until the federal investigation into the cause of the April 20 Deepwater Horizon explosion is complete.

He said he was introducing legislation to temporarily prohibit the Interior Department from exercising its authority to expand drilling and suggested a congressional inquiry could be launched into whether the government made sure there were appropriate contingencies in place to prevent a major oil spill.

We've been hearing reports that oil from Deep horizon is starting to hit the shore. Check out the NY Times to see how it will effect coastal wildlife.

Drilling for Natural Gas in NC

2010-04-08T16:06:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago the EPA announced plans to study the impact that hydraulic fracturing may have on water quality and public health. Hydraulic fracturing is a drilling process used to maximize the production of oil and natural gas reserves. Basically it takes water (mixed with high-viscosity fluid additives) and injects it under high pressure into underground rock fractures. The water pressure breaks up the rock and expands the fracture causing the natural gas or oil to move freely to the surface.

Natural gas is going to play a key role in the transition towards alternative energies. To put it simply, a molecule of gas has four hydrogen atoms and only one carbon, whereas oil and coal are more dependent on heavier carbon atoms for their energy content. More carbon= more pollution. The quickest way to reduce our Co2 emissions while maintaining our energy production is to retire coal-fired plants and replace them with facilities operating on natural gas.

Recent studies have shown that black shale reservoirs (these contain natural gas) run up and down the east coast. Unfortunately, there are serious environmental impacts linked to this extraction method. The most serious is the possibility of water contamination. At present most gas companies refuse to disclose the concentration and volume of their fracking fluids, but one well respected nonprofit has reported that the fluid may contain contain large amounts of toxic substances and carcinogens. Unfortunately, gas companies successfully lobbied to exempt themselves from the Safe Drinking Water Act, which would have required a full disclosure. In an article that appeared in the N&O last Sunday, Molly Diggin's the Sierra Club State Director, said the process was "fraught with potential risk... The bar to doing it in an environmentally safe way is pretty high."

This is a local issue, the natural gas deposits that are the most viable, are buried a mile underneath parts of Lee, Chatham, Durham, Wake and Orange counties. For now, state laws prohibit hydraulic fracturing.This gives us the opportunity to strengthen regulations and protect our natural resources in the event that drilling operations develop in the future.

Poetry and Nuclear Power

2010-04-07T22:21:00.001-04:00

A couple days ago one of my professor's recommended I read a piece of poetry by C.K. Williams. The poem is called "Tar", it focuses on a group of workmen tearing the roof off a building near Three Mile Island on the day of the accident in 1979. Since the present administration has decided to invest in nuclear energy and since I don't often see poetry on BlueNC, I thought I would share this piece. Here are the first few lines.

The first morning of Three Mile Island: those first disquieting,uncertain,
mystifying hours.
All morning a crew of workmen have been tearing the old decrepit roof off our
building,
and all morning, trying to distract myself, I’ve been wandering out to watch them
as they hack away the leaden layers of asbestos paper and disassemble the
disintegrating drains.
After half a night of listening to the news, wondering how to know a hundred
miles downwind
if and when to make a run for it and where

Personally, I think Williams is drawing a connection between the toxic job of tearing down this basic roof and the potential environmental impact that is often associated with nuclear power. In a separate interview when Williams was asked if his poetry was political he said that "it's not so much as political, as being as conscious, as it can be." It's obvious that this quote is very fitting for our present situation. Simply put, we need to be "conscious" of the impacts that will come with an expansion of nuclear power in America. You can check out the rest of the poem here.

East Coast winds can provide stable power

2010-04-06T23:45:00.001-04:00

Today, researchers at the University of Delaware released a report detailing how an interconnected system of wind farms along the east coast could eventually replace traditional fossil fueled power plants. Individual wind farms are often unreliable, at one moment they can be powered by strong winds and two hours later there can be a dead calm. Over the last few years engineers have debated if the problem could be solved by connecting wind farms up and down the east coast. So theoretically, strong winds in the south could offset a relatively calm breeze in New England.

Until now, no study has been able to prove that a connected system could actually work. Today's report uses data collected over the last 5 years and shows that over that time period winds did not die down completely along the hypothetical grid. This proves that hypothetically offshore wind power could generate a steady and constant source of electricity.

Now how can we transfer that $8 billion loan for Georgia's nuclear plant, to start work on this wind-power grid?

The Scrubber

2010-04-01T23:29:00.001-04:00

Want to deny climate change? Then I have the perfect app for you.

"Drill Baby Drill" is a Slogan not a Policy

2010-04-01T01:45:00.001-04:00

As we all know, this morning President Obama announced plans to lift a 20 year ban on offshore drilling. Executive Director of the Sierra Club Michael Brune put it best when he said,

“Drilling our coasts will doing nothing to lower gas prices or create energy independence. It will only jeopardize beaches, marine life, and coastal tourist economies, all so the oil industry can make a short-term profit.” And that's the double truth, Ruth!

The eastern Gulf of Mexico is believed to be the richest tract opened up by this plan. Experts estimate that it could contain up to 3.5 billion barrels of oil, that sounds like a big number, but the U.S. consumes 20 million barrels of oil each day, so their richest tract could supply us for only 175 days. Experts, also agree that it will take a number of years to even commence production. So instead of investing in clean energy alternatives, we will spend a number of years throwing money at a fossil fuel that cannot meet our long term energy needs. This policy shift simply underscores our movement towards comprehensive energy and climate legislation that will create competitive jobs and fuel the economy of the 21st century.

Pundit's seem to think this move will draw Republican support for climate and energy legislation, but really it looks like the President is giving away the bank. In the last 3 months the President has announced loans for nuclear power plants, opened off shore drilling, and mentioned "clean coal" investments in the State of the Union. Still, Republicans like Mitch McConnell and John Boehner complain that it's not enough. If the Democrats throw away their bargaining chips before the bill is released how will they form a compromise? The answer, they'll give more away... and eventually the legislation will be so watered down that they'll also lose the support of environmentalists.

On the brighter side Governor Perdue spoke with Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and mentioned, "It is vital that we maintain our ability to explore all options for energy production on our coast, including green opportunities such as wind power." Unfortunately this announcement wasn't about wind, it was about oil, and it seems that this administration has forgotten that "Drill Baby Drill" was a slogan not a policy.

Hikes at Carolina Beach State Park

2010-03-31T00:34:00.005-04:00

Earlier this month I spent a weekend exploring Carolina Beach State Park. I've done a lot of hiking across the country and this park has one the most diverse environments I've seen. In a mile and a half hike you traverse through 4 different unique habitats (pocosin, pine savannah, sand ridge and swamp.) It's an easy hike and if you look carefully you might even spot some venus fly traps. The best part of the park is the undeveloped beach, you can follow it out to the end of a small peninsula, which provides a great scenic view of the small inlet.

If you want to discover the park for yourself, Ranger Carla Edwards will be leading two hikes this weekend. Saturday's hike focuses on the 13 different plant communities, while Sunday's will highlight the park's migratory birds. If your interested both hikes start at 2pm and you can find further information in this article.

The Monday Ramble

2010-03-29T23:15:00.002-04:00

Here's the run down on some great articles I've read over the last week.

The Sierra Club's new executive director Michael Brune spoke with The Hill earlier this week. He said that although the Sierra Club is on board with the Kerry, Lieberman and Graham bill, things could change if the legislation gives away too many corporate incentives.

Brune named a number of provisions that could potentially go to far. Some of the big issues were, off shore drilling permits, reducing the EPA's authority over the Clean Air Act and incentives for nuclear power plants. Of course my favorite quote was, “We think that investments in clean coal are about as real as investments in Easter bunny research.”

If you don't follow The New Republic's blog, "The Vine" you should check it out. This post talks about Beijing's growing waste problem. As their economy grows by 8 percent each year, so does their waste output. Their solution, giant deodorant guns. Of course their other sollution is incinerators which spew mercury and dioxins into the air... the deodorant guns are looking pretty good.

It's unbelievable that the legislature funded a $300,000 inconclusive terminal groin study. What is harder to believe is that the CRC also voted to recommend, no recommendation. This decision is not only a waste of the state's time and resources, but it may very well lead to the demise of our long standing ban on hardened structures. Here you can see our State Director, Molly Diggin's lay down the case for a cautious approach to terminal groins.

EPA Blocks Largest MTR Permit in WV History!

2010-03-26T15:20:00.002-04:00

Earlier today, EPA announced it would block the Clean Water Act permit for Arch Coal's Spruce No. 1 Mine. The proposed mine would have been the largest mountaintop removal operation in the history of West Virginia. As proposed, EPA reports that the mine would bury 7 miles of headwater streams and directly impact over 2,278 acres of forestland.

North Carolina is intricately connected to the practice of mountain top removal. Over 61 percent of our electricity is generated by coal-fired plants and more than half of that coal is acquired through mountain top removal. Since its inception, MTR has destroyed 470 mountains and countless acres of land. The final veto on this permit will be issued after a 60 day period of public comment. Regardless, today's decision is a major victory for the environmental community and those who have long suffered the negative impacts of this process.

Global H2O

2010-03-24T23:34:00.002-04:00

Former NCSU graduate and Raleigh native, James Wilde, recently started a non-profit aimed at providing clean water to regions of the world where it's not easily accessible. Since July, Global H2O has been working to install various water collection and distribution utilities around the world. The first project consisted of drilling a well in the town of Dibolyec in northern Uganda. The project cost about $15,000 and will supply locals with 7,200 liters of water everyday. Using UN standards thats enough water to supply 1440 people daily.

Wilde, is currently drawing attention to the non-profit by attempting to climb Mount Everest. The non-profit hopes to draw corporate and private donations to continue their work. You can check out their next project here and also get involved by either volunteering or interning.

Sen. Hagan Co-signs Letter Supporting Climate and Energy Legislation

2010-03-24T00:33:00.003-04:00

Last Friday Sen. Kay Hagan co-signed a letter urging Sen. Reid to move climate and energy legislation to the forefront of debate. Here at the Sierra Club we've been pushing Sen. Hagan to actively support this legislation and we're proud she decided to act now. The letter was crafted by Sen. Tom Udall(D-NM) and was co-signed by 22 democrats. The group was rather diverse, it included a number of moderates including Begich, Tester, Stabenow, and Cantwell and some coal state democrats who had previously raised doubts about the legislation.

The letter mainly focused on the economic growth that climate and energy legislation could spur. Udall writes...

“Our lack of a comprehensive clean energy policy hurts job creation and increases regulatory uncertainty throughout our economy”, “Businesses are waiting on Congress before investing billions in energy, transportation, manufacturing, building and other sectors. … We need to take action in order to lead the emerging sectors that will drive our economic recovery.”

If we plan on passing comprehensive legislation that draws bi-partisan support, this language will be critical.

The Kerry, Lieberman, Graham bill is expected to be rolled out over the next few weeks. Although the bill will include a cap and trade provision, it will likely face fierce opposition from Sen. Dorgan and his followers who support an "energy-only" bill. An "energy only" bill is simply a waste, by not implementing a strong policy to reduce our emissions we will fail to create a real incentive that delivers alternative energy sources and new jobs to our economy. Sen. Hagan and the 21 other co-signers realize this and through their continued leadership we can pass comprehensive legislation that limits our emissions.

The Story of Plastic Bottles

2010-03-22T20:40:00.001-04:00

North Carolina throws away almost 288 million pounds of plastic every year. Fortunately, last October the NC legislature passed a measure banning the disposal of plastic bottles in state landfills. The ban is estimated to divert nearly 2.4 billion plastic bottles from landfills annually.

To manage the influx in bottles the state has also invested in one of the nation's largest recycling facilities. The plant located in Fayetteville, plans on processing 160 million pounds of plastic in the first quarter of 2010. Although these are steps in the right direction, you won't see police officers arresting James for throwing a bottle in the trash. Therefore, it's important we make an individual effort to decrease our plastic bottle consumption.

Time to go pick up a reusable bottle!

Action on Terminal Groins

2010-03-20T21:09:00.000-04:00

This week the NC Coastal Resources Commission will make a recommendation on hardened sea structures to the NC General Assembly. The NC Sierra Club is urging the commission to uphold the states historic ban on terminal groins and other hardened structures. Proposed legislation would create an exception and allow terminal groins to be built in order to protect beach front property. Unfortunately, the construction of these terminal groins will accelerate the erosion of public beaches further down shore. While eroding public access beaches, the groins will also destroy habitats for sea turtles and migratory birds. Especially the piping plover, an endangered species which has a number of designated critical habitats along our coast.

The policy shift could also encourage residential and commercial development on highly unstable inlets. If you combine this development with the CRC's report detailing that NC sea levels could rise 1 meter by 2100, it's easy to conclude that the environmental and fiscal risk could be detrimental to the public. A third party study, conducted at the direction of the legislature, also failed to provide any evidence to overturn the ban.

This historic ban has long kept our coastline natural and protected our beaches for public use, changing course now due to political pressure is not the answer. We find it critical that the CRC uphold this ban in order to protect our coast for years to come.

Energy Efficiency in NC

2010-03-19T17:05:00.001-04:00

It seemed like every major environmental meeting was held yesterday. One that might not have gotten a lot of attention was the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE.) The group released a report, finding that North Carolina can create 38,000 jobs and save $3.6 billion in energy costs if a broad set of electricity, water, and transportation efficiency policies are implemented.

The report outlines a number of different policies that could increase the efficiency of our energy consumption, the major being to establish an Energy Efficiency Resource Standard(EERS.) Much like the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard passed in Senate bill 3, an EERS would set long term energy efficiency goals for investor based utilities. The easiest way to achieve these goals would be through energy friendly residential and commercial building codes.

ACEEE also recommends that North Carolina implement a statewide plumbing efficiency standard to reduce our water use. They estimate that this policy could meet 8 to 10% of the state's water needs in 2025. The analysis also suggests that through a number of transportation policies our gasoline and oil consumption can be reduced by 10% in 2025. One policy idea would set a clean car standard, although states cannot create fuel economy standards they can set greenhouse gas standards. Using this policy, California will achieve a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from new vehicles by 2016.

North Carolina is poised to grow 33% by 2030, with this rapid population growth energy efficiency policies must be considered.

VoteVets Energy Independence Campaign

2010-03-16T22:01:00.001-04:00

VoteVets.org has started a great ad campaign focusing on transitioning our economy towards energy independence. North Carolina has the 4th largest military population and is home to almost 800,000 veterans, so it's important they know how climate and energy legislation will affect their lives. Below you will find one of their ad's. If your interested in the subject matter you can also sign their petition here.

Drop-in at Sen. Kay Hagan's

2010-03-16T00:10:00.001-04:00

Last Friday three Climate Guardians visited Sen. Hagan's Raleigh office to show their support for comprehensive climate and energy legislation. Steven Pires a graduate student at NCSU's Department of Forest Biomaterials Science and Engineering stressed that this legislation will bring tens of thousands of jobs to North Carolina. He brought up some great points, all of which show that an investment in NC's sustainable energy industry could payoff big dividends, below is one of his arguments.

The Renewable Fuels Standard seeks to cap our production of corn-based ethanol at 15 billion gallons a year while requiring the rest of the 36 billion gallons to be represented by second generation biofuels. These second generation biofuels have immense opportunity for economic growth in North Carolina. Major declines in the paper industry are causing existing NC facilities to halt operations, slowing economic activity and biomass utilization.These facilities have the capability and capacity to process this biomass (mostly hardwood and softwood) to a finished biofuel product with little modifications to the existing facilities.

The drop-in was a great success everyone brought something to the table. Steven Harrison a retired paratrooper and a frequent contributor to Blue NC was kind enough to make the trip to Raleigh and Sierra Club member Cecilia Redding also joined us. At every visit, volunteers ask what needs to happen in order for Sen. Hagan to actively support this legislation. Every time the staff tells us that more community support is needed. If you would like to volunteer and become a Climate Guardian please call me at 740-275-6270 or by email at north.carolina.chapter@gmail.com

Federal Funds for Oyster Development

2010-03-11T19:06:00.001-05:00

A couple weeks ago I posted that Orange County was starting an oyster shell recycling program. Well today it looks like a federal grant will offer fisherman $2 a bushel to plant those shells on reefs off of North Carolina's coast. Basically the shells provide a great habitat for shellfish to spawn on and grow.

If your not aware oysters have had it rough over the last 100 years. Some reports estimate that todays population is merely 1% of the total historical population. Overfishing is one of the causes, but pollution has also lead to the destruction of oyster habitats. Dermo an oyster disease which spread to the Pamlico Sound in th 90's is also responsible for killing off large populations of oysters before they could reach adulthood.

Fortunately it looks like federal and state governments are taking the right steps to spur population growth. The Coastal Federation who is administering the project recieved $5 million from the federal Recovery Act. The plan is to plant 41,000 bushels of shells, but a large portion of the money will be invested in two oyster sanctuaries in the Pamlico Sound. I recently had the opportunity to attend an oyster roast, so I'm hoping with this news there will be many more to come.

Solar Incentives

2010-03-11T01:32:00.002-05:00

There was a good article in the Business Journal last week that focused on the future of solar energy in North Carolina. Whether your considering residential installation or commericial there are a number of tax incentives to bring down the cost. The NC Solar Center has a great break down on federal incentives, it looks like you can cut the cost by 65% when you factor in the tax credits. Most homes need a two kilowatt photovoltaic system, with the tax credits you would only pay about $8,960. You could also install a solar water heater for about $3,000. These seem like smart, long term investments, not to mention you would be the one guy in the neighborhood showing off solar panels.

Private companies are also seeing solar as a way to increase profits.

In North Carolina, electric companies will buy power generated on a privately owned solar grid generally at a cost between 8 cents and 10 cents a kilowatt. North Carolina Greenpower will pay an additional 15 cents per kilowatt, which Simpson says makes it more economical for many companies to buy their power from a power company and sell solar generated power back for a profit rather than using the solar power directly.

I imagine this will help electric companies reach there renewable energy mandates, while allowing smaller companies to profit.

Of course, economic times are tough and some of these options might seem economically out of reach. If you want to invest in clean energy, but indirectly you can check out NC Green Power. This is one of the first independent non-profits working to implement green energy in NC. Individuals can donate $4 a month and in turn they contribute 100 kilowatt-hours of green energy to NC's power grid. The donation could also offset 500 pounds of Co2 emissions. As you can see there are a number of ways to support green energy in NC, take action today and consider these options.

RBC and Alberta Tar Sands

2010-03-10T01:11:00.001-05:00

If you live in the Triangle it's hard to miss RBC Bank's presence. Whether your headed to a Hurricanes game at RBC Arena or walking downtown around RBC's new skyscraper the bank is becoming a staple. Unfortunately, most folks are unaware that RBC is the #1 investor in the Alberta tar sands. Not sure what the tar sands are? Lucky for you I've found a video.

So the next time you consider opening up a bank account bypass RBC, even if they offer you special deals on Cane's tickets.

NC's Connection to Mountain Top Removal

2010-03-08T15:50:00.000-05:00

Coal mining has played an important role in shaping the economy, environment and heritage of Appalachia. Unfortunately coal has also resulted in significant health risks for communities and ecosystems in the region. Most recently we've witnessed the destructive practice of mountain top removal. This process destroys surrounding environments and communities in an effort to easily and cheaply excavate coal seams. As of 2009, 470 mountain peaks have been leveled by the practice and over 1,200 miles of pure mountain streams have been buried or polluted. The method of extraction is simply unacceptable.

In North Carolina, 61 percent of our electricity is produced by coal-fired plants and a over 50 percent of our coal is extracted from mountain top removal operations. Basically we are supporting a practice that has devastating social and environmental consequences for Appalachia. Below you will find a tool that reveals your connection to mountain top removal mining.

Bill Gates Speaks about Clean Energy at TED 2010

2010-03-05T16:38:00.001-05:00

This is a great talk on the importance of transitioning to clean energies.

NC Municipalities Struggle with Power Agencies

2010-03-05T00:42:00.001-05:00

The following was written by Van Crandall an active member of the NC Sierra Club. It's an important subject that hopefully draws the attention of state and local officials across North Carolina.

Many residents of NC municipalities are getting hammered by high electricity bills, resulting from investment decisions that were made almost 3 decades ago into centralized power-plants (largely nuclear i.e. highly expensive) and municipal distribution systems, most of which fall under the “NC Eastern Municipal Power Agency” (NCEMPA). This agency relies mainly on Progress Energy operated power-plants to provide wholesale power to the member municipalities.

Towns and cities such as Greenville, Rocky Mount and Wilson that own municipal power systems are each saddled with over $400 Million in long-term debt - even after 28 years. Kinston has over $200 Million in long-term debt, while Elizabeth City, Lumberton, New Bern, Tarboro and Washington each have over $100 Million in long-term debt. There are many more.

These municipalites are also seeing some of the highest monthly power bills due to historically cold weather. In January, Elizabeth City was billed $3.4 million for the use of 36 million kilowatt hrs. Combine that with a recent 18 percent rate increase and some business owners are paying up to $600 to cover the electricity bills.

Clearly, energy efficiency retrofits and weatherization of residences offer the best hope for short-term relief to reduce electricity consumption and expense.

Here are two more links if you would like to learn more. Virginia Pilot and Rocky Mount Telegram

Upcoming Sierra Club Events!

2010-03-04T23:27:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to give everyone an update on our upcoming outings. This weekend the Club has 3 events, so if your interested in joining the Sierra Club or want some outdoor recreation come join us.

The first event is this Saturday the 6th and is located about an hr away from Greensboro and Winston-Salem. The group will meet at the Hanging Rock trailhead at 12:30PM for a moderate to strenuous hike. It is quite a workout, but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile. Known as the hiking park; Hanging Rock State Park is part of the Sauratown Mountains, an ancient mountain range that rises out of the Piedmont to heights of 1700 to 2500 feet. The 2 ½ mile round trip should take about 3 hours. Good hiking shoes are strongly recommended. For safety reasons group size is limited to six. Please contact Chris at chrisfhoward@hotmail.com or 336-269-1417 for more information, and to register. In the event of inclement weather, or unsafe conditions, we will attempt to reschedule.

The next two events are on Sunday the 7th.

The Neusiok trail runs over 20 miles in the eastern portion of the Croatan National Forest between Pine Cliff Recreation area along the shore of the Neuse River to Oyster Point in the salt marshes of the Newport River. It is part of the developing Mountain-to-Sea trail. We will hike the northermonst seven mile section of the Neusiok, one of the most scenic trails in eastern North Carolina. This section of the trail winds through pine/hardwood upland forest, cypress/palmetto swamp and sandy shoreline along the Neuse River. As we hike, we will learn from local naturalist Dick Barmore what makes the various ecosystems of the Croatan so special. The trail is moderate in difficulty. Wear water resistant shoes and bring a lunch. Meet at the JCPenney northeast parking lot at 8:15 am or at the trailhead on Minnesott Ferry Road at 10:30 am. The outing starts at the trailhead. Email vkloepfer@suddenlink.net to register.

This last event is put on by the Orange-Chatham group, so if you live in the Triangle try to make it out.

Enjoy an early spring hike at Eno River State Park. Moderate hike, about 5 miles. Boots recommended. Bring water and a snack. Contact: Margaret Anderson: 919-493-0397 or andcamlib@hotmail.com

Update on Federal Climate Legislation.

2010-03-03T00:10:00.000-05:00

Senator Lindsey Graham was quoted this week saying that a new climate and energy proposal will be released "hopefully in the next couple weeks." The new plan will not install a comprehensive cap and trade program over all industries. Instead the legislation will take steps to incorporate different industries over a longer period of time. Power plants would be the first industry to face a cap on emissions. The stall plan is the work of oil industries who believe that the House bill went to far in limiting their carbon emissions. The move is probably good politics considering these are turbulent times and support for comprehensive legislation will be needed from all sides. The other important note to make is that regulation on utility emissions would start on day one. Considering EPA estimates that power plants are responsible for over 70% of all carbon emissions this is a smart move.

Of course I can imagine 5 years down the road the oil industry will be pushing to have their cap and trade compliance further delayed. It would be nice to have it all set in one swoop, of course this legislation probably all hinges on the outcome of healthcare. ( I can't believe we're still talking about it)

If you all are interested in keeping up with environmental policy I highly recommend Greenwire.

Greenway Expands

2010-02-28T22:57:00.002-05:00

Last week the Greenway expanded to connect downtown Raleigh to Pullen Park, NCSU, the N.C. Art Museum and Umstead Park. The half mile extension known as the Little Rock Greenway Trail follows the Little Rock Branch creek from Chavis Park to McMakin St. in S.E. Raleigh. The Greenway was originally conceived in 1974, it now extends over 63 miles and incorporates 3000 acres, all of which is open to the public for outdoor recreational activities. Personally I've used the Greenway quite a bit, I can remember using the older parts of the trail with my father for weekend bike rides. Recently though our new border collie Alice, loves to go for hikes on the trail around NCSU. The new trail also connects downtown Raleigh to the Walnut Creek Wetlands Center, the facility offers educational opportunities for children and students studying undeveloped floodplains. Whether your training for a marathon or out for a Sunday stroll this news is exciting.

Weekend Special

2010-02-27T23:46:00.001-05:00

A couple days ago we posted information on a road construction site in North Carolina that used coal ash as a beneficial fill. The report revealed that lead and arsenic levels exceeded federal and state groundwater standards. The video below shows how these toxic contaminates can affect communities when coal ash is used as a beneficial fill.

Styrofoam Recycling

2010-02-26T23:54:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week Dart Container Corp. announced the opening of a styrofoam recycling center in Randolph County. As I was reading the article I was taken back to my elementary school days, I can remember the lunch ladies taking out trash bags filled to the brink with styrofoam trays. Although I would like to say I was an environmentally aware 8 year-old, I'm sure I thought nothing of it at the time. To redeem myself for not standing up for the environment back then, I did a little research tonight and found out styrofoam is indeed not biodegradable. Of course not much thrown in our landfills is biodegradable, but as we all know styrofoam is extremely light so it has the potential to be abundant where people litter, mostly along waterways and coastal shores. I wonder what the Cape Fear River Keepers have to say about styrofoam?

It turns out every year the U.S. throws away 25 billion styrofoam cups. In 2007 New York City Schools went through 4 million lunch trays every week. This is a lot of material to be throwing into our nations landfills, so it is good to see a private industry taking the lead to find ways to recycle it. The drop offsite is on Wesleyan Rd. a few miles off of U.S. 220 near South Main St. It's open to the public, but a majority of the recycled material will come from schools, universities and businesses. Below is a video of a styrofoam compressor, much like the one they will use at Dart's facility.

Warning-Mute your computer first.

More News on Coal Ash

2010-02-25T21:53:00.002-05:00

Today EarthJustice and the Environmental Integrity Project released an analysis on 31 additional coal ash contamination sites across the country. As always a large amount of the sites (6) were located in North Carolina. Below you will find the report's summaries for three of the worst sites within NC, of course since groundwater testing has not been required by the state until recently, some information is still unknown. First though you should know that arsenic, a human carcinogen was found in high levels at 19 of the 31 sites and at 26 of the 31 contamination exceeded one or more of the nation's primary drinking standards. A more interesting note came with the discovery that showed 2 of the contamination sites were actually projects that had used coal ash as a structural fill (one in NC.) This sheds a little light on the dangers associated with what coal ash proponents call "beneficial fill."

Progress Energy – Sutton Steam Plant

New Hanover County

Voluntary groundwater monitoring at the Sutton Plant coal ash impoundment detected levels of arsenic, boron, iron and manganese that exceed state groundwater standards. Arsenic concentrations were measured as high as 29 times the federal primary maximum contaminate level (MCL). Groundwater monitoring indicates that the contamination is migrating outside of the state designated compliance boundary for the coal ash impoundment. The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a Notice of Violation and requested corrective action.

Progress Energy – Lee Steam Plant

Wayne County

Groundwater monitoring at the Lee Steam Plant site has found levels of arsenic, boron, iron, lead, and manganese that exceed North Carolina Code 2L Groundwater Standards. Arsenic concentrations have been measured as high as 44 times federal guidelines.

Swift Creek Structural Fill site

Highway 301 Swift Creek-Battleboro Road

Rocky Mount, NC

This coal combustion waste (CCW) disposal site was a 25-acre beneficial use structural fill operating from 1991 through at least 2001. CCW was placed directly above a shallow water table and into a wetland and into groundwater, contaminating off-site groundwater and causing off-site coal ash dust impacts to adjacent property. Arsenic, barium, lead, mercury, and sulfate levels in groundwater all exceeded North Carolina Code 2L Groundwater Standards and federal primary MCLs and secondary MCLs. Lead concentrations were as high as 0.093 mg/L, exceeding the state groundwater standard and primary MCL by more than 6 times. Arsenic concentrations were as high as 0.068 mg/L, also exceeding the state groundwater standard and measuring nearly 7 times the primary MCL in site groundwater. Lead was measured at more than twice the primary MCL in off-site groundwater downgradient from the ash, and arsenic and sulfate levels also exceeded primary MCLs in off-site groundwater. Coal ash from six North Carolina and Virginia power plants was placed at this CCW disposal site. The site was classified as a beneficial use site and did not require a permit from the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

For the complete summary visit EarthJustice.

Energy Sustainability in NC: Forest Biofuels

2010-02-24T19:09:00.000-05:00

The following is a blog entry written by Steven Pires, a Sierra Club member and Grad student at NCSU's Department of Forest Biomaterials Science and Engineering. This is the first post in a new series that will focus on how North Carolina can lead the way in alternative energy production.

The practice of sustainability and sustainable development becomes critically important as global populations and natural resource demands continue to rise. According to the US Census Bureau, the global population is expected to exceed 9 billion by 2050. This staggering figure leaves us with no choice but to be more environmentally conscious with the use of our resources. Steadily rising natural resource demand coupled with increasing public environmental concerns has sparked major investments in the renewable energy sector.

Biofuels are attracting a considerable amount of attention due to their unique ability to provide a direct substitute for conventional gasoline and their (arguably) carbon neutral renewable character. But, this attention has also brought scrutiny upon the biofuel industry, questioning their true environmental benefits. Until recently, the United States has focused their attention on corn-based ethanol (also known as, first generation biofuels). Contention surrounding first generation biofuels are justified through a number of logical avenues. First, corn is one of the, if not the most, energy intensive crops requiring both labor intensive site preparation and huge amounts of petroleum derived fertilizer. Secondly, corn has a more compelling value as a food source than a fuel source. There have been numerous Life-Cycle Assessment studies which come to a variety of conclusions about the environmental performance of these renewable fuels. First generation biofuels tend to have marginally better to significantly worse environmental performances than current petroleum transportation fuels. On the other hand, second generation biofuels prove to have positive environmental performances when compared to petroleum fuels.

Keeping that in mind, it is exciting to consider the technological advancements made in, what we are now considering, second generation biofuels. Second generation biofuels are renewable fuels derived from non-food source cellulosic biomass (example: trees, wood residue, crop residue, landfill waste, grasses, etc). Expanding the second generation biofuel industry in the Southeastern United States has the ability to enhance economic development, promote energy security, and reduce the environmental impact of our fuel consumption. The Renewable Fuels Standard set out in the 2007 Energy Bill calls on the US to produce 36 billion gallons of biofuels by the year 2022 in hopes of promoting more green jobs and augmenting the amount of money spent on foreign fuels. The Renewable Fuels Standard seeks to cap our production of corn-based ethanol at 15 billion gallons a year while requiring the rest of the 36 billion gallons to be represented by second generation biofuels. This provokes the question of how we will successfully meet this goal from both a technological and economic perspective while still reducing green house gas emissions.

Major declines in the paper industry are causing existing facilities across the Southeast to halt operations, slowing economic activity and biomass utilization. These facilities have the capability and capacity to process this biomass (mostly hardwood and softwood) to a finished biofuel product with little modifications to the existing facilities. The process of taking an old paper mill and converting it to a biofuel refinery is known as “mill repurposing” and is gaining attractiveness on the economic development side of the equation. NC State and the Department of Forest Biomaterials are currently leading research and development in mill repurposing technology.

Using woody biomass to create biofuel also has its regulatory and political hurdles to overcome. Both first generation and second generation biofuels are currently being scrutinized due to a consideration many researchers feel is being left out of the equation: indirect land use change (ILUC). ILUC considers the total life cycle effects of the carbon emitted due to land use change from converting natural landscapes to croplands for biofuels. I project this is going to be a huge point of contention for the biofuel industry, policy makers, and the public to reach an agreement. A policy guiding the responsible use and management of these new biofuel croplands is critical for the success of the industry. This policy should also be geared towards giving environmental activist groups peace-of-mind that the proper steps are being taken to come up with a best management practice. Utilization of woody biomass does offer some advantages to this ILUC debate. Although plantation forestry will most likely be a monoculture crop, these trees sequester huge amounts of carbon and have long harvest rotation times (8-10 year rotations) compared to switch grass (harvested 1-2 times per year).

There is much room to debate and improve on the current status of biofuels. That being said, I’m sure we all can agree that the investments and increasing attention on this particular renewable energy source will have a positive domino effect. This is not the end all solution to our problems, but it is a step in the right direction towards creating an all encompassing renewable energy infrastructure within the United States.

Ways to Combat Global Climate Change

2010-02-24T00:52:00.001-05:00

So I've run across some cool interactive ways to personally combat global climate change. Below is a commercial promoting mass transportation in NYC, but in many ways it's relevant for all of us.

Our communications director showed me this site earlier today. This website basically outlines why a number of skeptical climate change claims are false. The best part is that it is also an iphone app! So when someone tells you climate change can be blamed on a number of solar hot spots, you can whip out your iphone and explain why the sun is actually cooling and have the science to back up your claim.

Also, check out The Environmental Defense Fund's list of recommendations to lower your carbon footprint here.

Of course if you want to make a direct impact on environmental work in NC you can make a donation and join the Sierra Club here.

Navy Finally Acts on Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune

2010-02-23T00:10:00.003-05:00

The News and Observer reported today, that the U.S. Department of the Navy will pay $1.53 million to conduct a mortality study to prove that toxic waters did play a role in the deaths of Marines and their families. Here's the basics.

By some estimates, as many as 1 million people were exposed to well water that contained toxic chemicals at the base. The chemicals were dumped into storm drains, leaked from fuel tanks or buried in pits across the base. They seeped through the groundwater and into wells that fed the base areas of Hadnot Point and Tarawa Terrace.

The main suspected toxic that leached into water sources is benzene. The organic compound is classified as a carcinogen by the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services and is most commonly linked to causing acute non-lymphocytic leukemia. The compound was originally used as an additive in gasoline to prevent knocking, but today is still used to make adhesives and a number of plastics and polymers. If benzene sounds familiar it's because in 1978 it was the most prevalent chemical found in water samples in Love Canal, New York. In response to that crisis the U.S. Gov't relocated over 800 families.

Some believe over 800,000 gallons of gasoline have been spilled at the site since its inception. Although the water wells were closed in 1984, over 155,000 former Marines and family members are on a list to be notified of the studies results. Of course for many this study comes decades too late. In 1985 former Marine Jerry Ensminger lived with his wife and daughter in a large housing complex, that winter they recieved a letter saying that "small trace amounts" of organic chemicals were found in two wells and they were in turn being shut down. The notice was not only too late, but also a gross understatement. By 1985 Ensminger's daughter was diagnosed with leukemia, she died later that year at the age of 6. Years later Ensminger would discover that those "small trace amounts" were 1,400 parts per billion, that's over 280 times the level consider safe for consumption. Even army engineer William Neal wrote in 1980 that the water was HIGHLY CONTAMINATED WITH...CHLORINATED HYDROCARBONS (SOLVENTS)!... and yes he wrote in capital letters in an official report.

Blatantly ignoring this situation for 30 years is disgraceful. The Navy should not only be paying to conduct these studies, but they should also be providing restitution to these families.

Interview with a Sierra Club Member

2010-02-21T23:27:00.002-05:00

Christa Wagner is our Political Steering Committee Chair and a grad student at UNC's School of City and Regional Planning. This interview is part of an ongoing series to motivate individuals to join the Sierra Club. If your interested please visit our website and find your local group.

When did you join the Sierra Club, what sparked your interest in the group?
I joined the Sierra Club in 2003 in Birmingham, Alabama where I had my first job. The next year, I moved back to Charlotte NC, my hometown, and was happily hired as a Conservation Organizer for the Club. I later moved to Durham to represent the NC Chapter in the state legislature.

What was your biggest achievement as a member?
One of the big successes we enjoyed in Charlotte was working with the city and county to add fuel efficient cars to their fleets. In Raleigh, our dedicated volunteers have helped convince the General Assembly to pass environmental legislation ranging from increasing clean energy production in the state, to funding transit in our cities and suburbs. We're making so much progress.

What goals have you set to for 2010?
As the new Chair of the Chapter Political Committee, I'm excited to work with the steering committee and local group leaders to increase the number of volunteers we have participating in the Sierra Club's endorsement process and then working to get our endorsed candidates elected!

If you could spend a weekend in the wilderness of NC, where would you go?
After my wedding this fall, my fiance and I plan to spend some time in beautiful Madison County.

Weekend Special

2010-02-20T21:49:00.001-05:00

Take some time out of your weekend and watch the video below. It comes from Peter Sinclair's vault of Youtube video's, this one is part of his "Climate Denial Crock of the Week" series, well worth your time.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend.

NGA Letter Undermines EPA Authority

2010-02-19T18:57:00.000-05:00

Senator Murkowski recently introduced a resolution that would strip the EPA of its power to regulate carbon emissions. This legislation comes three years after the Supreme Court upheld the EPA's authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, and after the EPA proved that greenhouse gases pose a danger to public health and the environment. Senator Burr is a co-sponsor of this legislation, but today the more important issue is a letter that will be circulated at the National Governors Assoc. this weekend. The letter which was written by Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour supports Murkowski's effort to weaken the Clean Air Act.

If Congress followed these recommendations the EPA could no longer regulate the pollutants from different carbon sources, such as cars and light-trucks, coal-fired power plants, oil refineries, or other big smokestack industries. It would also make it impossible for the Obama administration to move forward with the new tailpipe emissions standard, which could save Americans $50 a month in fuel costs while reducing the nation's oil consumption by 1.8 billion barrels. Although its late in the day please call any contacts you have in the Governors office and urge Perdue to not sign this environmentally destructive bill. Here is the number. (919)733-4240

Nuclear Costs

2010-02-18T23:22:00.000-05:00

With all the attention on nuclear energy recently, I decided to do a some research and I ran across this great paper on the costs associated with nuclear power. I warn you it's rather long, so I'll give you a short run down on the facts.

Lets start with the basic capital costs, they estimate that a new nuclear facility will cost somewhere between $8 and $12 billion. Considering two thirds of the world's nuclear plants still being constructed are delayed, we can predict that the total cost will be closer to $12 billion. So nuclear power will most likely cost about 17 to 22 cents/kWh, compare that to wind power which costs around 4 to 9 cents/kWh.

Many renewable energies like wind and biofuels have a downward sloping cost curve. Nuclear though is the opposite, there are a number of costs that have to be factored in after the initial investment. High level waste disposal is probably the most obvious cost, at present the waste is stored outside of each reactor, it's estimated to cost around $300/kWh. The costs will likely increase if the Yucca Mountain Repository is used for waste storage. If you also count the risk factor of transporting the waste, the price again will increase. Basically the Dept. of Energy predicts that 1 shipment of deadly high-level radioactive waste will be required every 4 hours, 24-hours a day, 365 days a year for 38 years. Since these plants have a defined life time we also have to consider the decommissioning costs which would be around $700/kWh. So when you factor in both of these costs its an additional $2.2 billion in expenditures.

I'm far from an economist, but as a nation do we really want to fund an investment that is this costly? Can we afford to give government loans to build hundreds of new nuclear power plants? I might sound like a broken record, but we should be spending this money on the development of clean, safe, renewable energies. An $8 billion investment would buy almost 4,000 offshore wind turbines, or help transition our energy grid to support cleaner energies. There is a reason that a generation has passed since any nuclear reactors have been built, the Wall St. investors decided that the investment was too expensive and would not be worth the risk, it seems that over the last twenty years not much has changed.

Upcoming Sierra Club Events!

2010-02-17T21:16:00.002-05:00

So the Sierra Club is hosting some great activities this weekend. I want to take a moment and mention them, and hopefully encourage you all to come out and participate.

On Saturday the 20th, Bill Bracey and a number of devoted Sierra Club members and neighborhood groups are going to work on the Bolin Creek Habitat Restoration Project off Hillsborough St. in Chapel Hill. Since the fall, this group has been working to remove invasive shrubs like Chinese Privet, Bittersweet, and Wisteria from the trail. Its a long term plan that will hopefully reintroduce a number of native species to the habitat. If your up for some rewarding hard work you should come lend a hand. For more information call Bill Bracey at 919-942-9934 or by email at arbornet@mindspring.com

The next event is taking place on Sunday the 21st, it's a hike on the Falls Lake Trail in Raleigh. The group will meet at 1:00 at the Falls Lake Dam trail race area, where Falls of the Neuse Road crosses the Neuse River. The plan is to hike on part of the Mountains to Sea Trail for three miles to Raven Ridge Road and then turn back. They estimate the six mile trip will take about three hours. Expect great views of the lake! For more info, contact Jim Avery at 919-219-4165 or javery3@nc.rr.com

I plan on laboring away Saturday at the Bolin Creek Project ( Ha! now I have to go), so if you want to meet me or you just want to improve the Greenway come on out!

Also to see a complete calender of our events visit this site.

Recycling Shells to Renew Oyster Stocks

2010-02-16T23:13:00.002-05:00

Chapel-Hill's paper the Harold-Sun reported today, that Orange County will start recycling oyster shells. This policy on the surface might seem insignificant, but it has a number of benefits for North Carolina. The program will decrease the amount of waste in local landfills, offer a tax credit to those who recycle the shells, and most importantly help rebuild the state's oyster stock.

The new policy will hopefully curb the state's declining oyster population. If oyster shells are returned back to the ocean, they create a great environment for new oysters to grow on. As new oysters grow a habitat is formed for bigger and more diverse fish. So a rather small investment not only helps out the oyster industry, but also fisheries.

The plan will offer citizens and businesses a $1 tax incentive for every bushel (55 pounds) of shells. At present 18 counties offer this service, that number is expected to expand in reaction to the legislature's ban on the landfilling of oyster shells. Although the individual counties are responsible for the collection, the state is covering the costs of picking up the shells and transporting them to their next destination. The shells will not only be used for habitat fill, but also for building material, trail bedding and mulch. To find a program like this near you visit this site.

Help Push NC Reps to Fight for Climate Legislation

2010-02-12T15:39:00.003-05:00

Next week Congress will take a break and return to their homes and districts. While they're back the Sierra Club hopes that North Carolinians will urge their representatives to push energy and climate legislation to the forefront of debate. Over the last few months the idea of an energy only bill has been tossed around, in the end not passing comprehensive legislation that includes a price on carbon would be irresponsible. If we want legislation that creates jobs, decreases our dependence on foreign oil, and reduces pollution Congress needs to pass climate legislation too.

Of course if I can't convince you of the importance maybe this will.

If you've decided to act find phone numbers and addresses here.

Offshore Energy

2010-02-11T17:33:00.003-05:00

Today the LA Times reported that Virginia could become the first state on the Eastern Seaboard to open it's coast to offshore drilling. Republican Governor Robert McDonnell and a bipartisan coalition in the state legislature hopes that the Obama administration will permit the sale of drilling leases at the end of the year. Its time to face one fact though, the projected amount of oil off the coast is around 130 million barrels. In the U.S. alone, we consume 20 million barrels each day so if we do the math, the oil off the coast could supply us for only 7 days! That's just not a logical investment.

The Virginia Legislature should instead be focusing on harnessing wind power. Last year UNC-CH prepared a report for the N.C. General Assembly outlining the potential energy that wind could produce for our state. The report said, that if we built a wind farm consisting of 450 offshore turbines we would generate 5.7 million megawatt hours of electricity each year, that would offset the emissions of nearly 9 million cars. Three weeks ago the N.C. Energy Policy Council heard a report by Paul Quinline from the N.C. Sustainable Energy Association. Mr. Quinline showed that the development of wind farms in 15% of the identified offshore regions could supply 20% of North Carolina's power needs.

Although there are still significant hurdles to overcome, states should not be making poor investments that are sure to harm the environment. As the Southern Environmental Law Center pointed out a spill along the eastern coast could affect shores from Cape Cod to South Carolina. We hope that North Carolina heeds this warning and does not follow the potential lead of Virginia.

Proposed Legislation to Protect the Blue Ridge Parkway

2010-02-10T23:17:00.002-05:00

This year represents the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway.To celebrate, a congressional delegation from North Carolina and Virginia is sponsoring legislation to preserve the land adjacent to the parkway. The proposed legislation will protect 50,000 additional acres along the 469 mile road.

Construction on the parkway began during the administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt. During the days of the New Deal it was built by a number of public work agencies, mainly the Civilian Conservation Corps. 52 years later in 1987 the final stretch was laid near Grandfather mountain in Linville, NC. Over the past few years though, a number of private developments have started obstructing the scenic views that bring in nearly 2.3 billion dollars annually to the National Park System. U.S. Representatives David Price and Heath Shuler hope that the proposed $75 million investment will help protect the breath taking views and expand the parkway's recreational offerings.

At present the bill has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. Despite the recent economic downturn we hope that Congress will see the importance in preserving this national treasure. If you want to get involved with the Blue Ridge Parkway's 75th anniversary visit the site below.

Website: http://www.blueridgeparkway75.org/

UNC Energy Task Force Launches Tomorrow

2010-02-09T17:35:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow afternoon the UNC Energy Task Force will convene for the first time. The task force was formed by Chancellor Thorpe in January, to review the University's carbon reduction plan. Although the force will likely consider a number of strategies, it's expected that the main focus will be on the University's coal-fired steam and power plant. The facility burns more than 100,000 tons of coal each year. To put that in perspective each ton of coal can release enough Co2 to fill 15, 40x20 ft swimming pools. Remember though, It's not just about greenhouse gas emissions, the plant also produces 35,000 tons of ash each year. Since coal ash is not regulated by the EPA it can potentially contaminate groundwater supplies.

For these reasons the coal-fired plant has been at the center of Sierra Club's Coal-Free UNC Campaign. Although the University plans to be carbon neutral by 2050, the student movement is committed to ending the University's coal consumption by 2015. Tim Toben, chair of the N.C. Energy Policy Council will lead the discussion tomorrow as chair of the new task force. Although the committee is expected to take 6 to 12 months to recommend a plan of action, we hope that from the out start their is a consensus that the co-generation plant needs to stop burning coal. Coal-free UNC organizer Laura Stevens put it best when she said "The best way for the task force to address energy use on campus is to address coal use. Coal is dirty from cradle to grave. From start to finish it hurts the environment."

Burr Refuses to Regulate Coal Ash

2010-02-08T12:20:00.002-05:00

Last December Senator Richard Burr co-signed a letter to the EPA requesting that they not designate coal ash as a hazardous waste material. The letter expressed that the costs of the reform would be a burden on utility companies and eventually the average consumer. The Senator seems to be ignoring the blatant dangers associated with coal ash ponds. With this said, there are some valuable points to be discussed.

First we should address the cost issue. In June 2009 the New York University Law School published an in depth cost/benefit analysis on coal ash regulation. The outcome of the study showed that the cost of not regulating coal ash exceeded the cost of regulating it. They estimated that the average cost of upgrading each ash pond would be somewhere between $11 and $20 million per unit. To put this in comparison the cost of cleaning up the Tennessee Kingston disaster is predicted to reach $975 million. The study shows that as these facilities age the probability that they may rupture increases. With over 400 coal ash ponds in the US and 10 rated "high hazard" in North Carolina it makes you wonder why Richard Burr is calling for weak regulation.

The danger associated with coal ash is possibly the most important aspect. In a 2007 EPA risk assessment, researchers showed that ash ponds are 40 times more likely to have higher cancer risks from arsenic exposure than similar landfills. This is due to the fact that coal ash contains a number of dangerous chemicals, including arsenic, lead, boron and mercury. 67 reports of groundwater and surface water contamination have been reported in 23 states, 2 of these in NC. Exposure to these substances can lead to cancer and damage to the nervous system. Unfortunately, without strict federal guidelines that name coal ash as a hazardous material, water will continue to be contaminated and our citizens and environment will bear the real cost of unregulated coal ash.

At this time, some House members are supporting more stringent regulations on coal ash ponds. In a letter to EPA officials Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) and a number of his colleagues, including North Carolina's David Price called for the EPA to take a number of steps that would ensure the safety of our citizens. The letter requests that the EPA halt the construction of new impoundments and equip existing ponds with appropriate liners, while also mandating groundwater monitoring for each site. We hope that Senator Burr will follow the lead of Rep. Price and recommend strict regulations on coal ash. Since North Carolina has the most ash ponds rated "high hazard", it's a shame Senator Burr is not more concerned with this issue.

Please call Burr's office and urge him to support regulation that recognizes coal ash as a hazardous material. 202-224-3154

EPA Releases Action Reports for Coal Ash

2010-02-05T21:39:00.001-05:00

Thursday afternoon the EPA announced action plans for 43 coal ash impoundments at 22 facilities throughout the U.S. Since May 2009 the EPA has been investigating the structural integrity of coal ash ponds. After each facility reviews an EPA report on their facility, they propose a plan of action. This plan is then reviewed and approved by the EPA.

Duke Power operates 5 facilities in North Carolina that require these action plans. The report for the Allen Steam Plant in Belmont, NC included a number of steps to ensure the structural stability of their impoundment. Although the plan included repairs for seepage, no where in the report do they mention water table testing. Coal ash has been linked to cause cancer and nervous system conditions when its found in the water table. We hope that the EPA will rule to label coal ash as a hazardous material, which will allow for tighter regulations. We expect the EPA to rule on this in the coming weeks.

The EPA also released ratings on an additional 40 coal ash impoundments. Most received a "high" or a "significant" hazard potential. The "high" rating means that if it broke, the ash could cause the loss of human life. "Significant" means it could cause economic or environmental destruction.

Interview with Sierra Club Member

2010-02-04T14:36:00.003-05:00

Over the next few weeks I will be interviewing our members, to try and encourage others to join a local chapter. If you have any questions that you would like to ask please send me an email at north.carolina.chapter@gmail.com If your interested in joining a group, you can find a local chapter near you at this site. http://nc.sierraclub.org/outings.html

Below is an interview with the current chair of the Cypress Group in eastern North Carolina.

When did you join the Sierra Club, what sparked your interest in the group?

I was attracted to the Cypress Group in 2004 through its educational programs and outings. I had just purchased a kayak, when I was encouraged to come to a program on paddling in Eastern North Carolina. I soon became outings chair and subsequently news editor and group chair.

What was your biggest achievement as a member?

My main achievement was to recruit a number of new officers and to encourage the members who were already in place. I see myself to have helped recognize and support good initiatives developed by talented members, rather than to have set and followed my own agenda. My principal failure was my inability to find a news editor, but I as able to find competent people to help me in that role. They helped me become a better writer.

If you could spend a weekend in the wilderness of NC, where would you go?

Paddling in Eastern North Carolina has always been my favorite outdoor activity and I benefited tremendously from trips led by Buster Thompson (Swamp Fox), Vince Bellis, John Hinners, Jeff Monico, Bill & Ginny Kloepfer and many others. For favorite spots, I'd choose Merchants Millpond State Park with its abundant wildlife, and Hammocks Beach State Park with the great paddle out to Bear Island.

EPA Sets New Air Quality Standards

2010-02-03T23:57:00.000-05:00

Last month the EPA announced that they were tightening the federal air quality standards. The new regulations will try to lower the ground-level ozone found in communities around the country. Ozone is not emitted directly into the air, but is instead formed when Co2, Nitrogen oxide and methane mix together and come in contact with sunlight. The major sources of ozone are man-made, whether its industrial facilities, motor exhaust or chemical solvents they all emit dangerous compounds that increase ground-level ozone.

The EPA has suggested that the ozone standard be set between .060 and .070 parts per million for an 8 hr time period. The current standard of .075 was set by the previous administration, against the advice of the EPA's panel of science advisers. At these higher levels ozone can be a threat to the health and welfare of our citizens. Ground-level ozone can cause reduced lung function, coughing, increased asthma attacks and respiratory infection. A 2006 survey by the Mecklenburg Health Dept. revealed that emergency room treatments for respiratory problems increased during bad-air days. During the summer, when the sun and heat produce higher ozone levels Mecklenburg County can continually reach levels of ozone in the upper .060s and into the .070s. These readings were taken at the county line, but inside Charlotte where cars, trucks and businesses add to the pollution the numbers can obviously be higher and more dangerous. Hopefully with tightened air standards, Charlotte will work towards getting people out of their cars and into mass transportation. Maybe they'll finally finish the proposed second and third lines on their light rail system. However they plan on meeting the new standards, in the end communities in North Carolina will be a cleaner and safer.

The EPA plans on having a final decision by August 31st.

To learn more about your local air quality visit this site: http://xapps.enr.state.nc.us/aq/ForecastCenter

Sierra Club's Coal-Free UNC Hosts Climate Expert James Hansen

2010-02-02T16:55:00.003-05:00

Today, NASA Climate Expert Dr. James Hansen addressed students, faculty and community members outside of the campus's coal-fired steam and power plant. Dr. Hansen who heads NASA's research institute on atmospheric and climate change, urged UNC administrators to stop burning coal at the facility. Already the plant burns 100,000 tons of coal annually, that makes it the largest emitter of Co2 in Orange County. Dr. Hansen's argument focused on the idea that the U.S. needs to reduce its coal consumption sooner rather than later, and that universities should lead the way.

That last line is the most important, "universities should lead the way." UNC is one of the country's leading bastions of higher learning. If the university wants to remain on the cutting edge of education, then it can not only teach from the classroom, but also by example. They must show students that what they learn from within a textbook can not only be applied to the world, but also the power plant down the street.

Unfortunately, educating tomorrow's leaders may not be enough. Dr. Hansen stressed that it's imperative we begin today. He called coal, "the dirtiest fuel on the planet", but pointed out that "If we phase out coal over the next 20 years, we can solve the problem." Student activists from the Sierra Club's Coal-Free UNC Campaign hope that Chancellor Thorpe will heed this advice. Already the Chancellor has created a Energy Task Force to examine the campus's co-generation power plant.

This campaign has only begun, continued pressure from students, alumni and community members will be critical in the coming months. As always, if you would like to lend your support below you can find links and contact info.

Contact: laura@greencorps.org

Website: http://coalfreeunc.wordpress.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/coalfreeunc

Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Coal-Free-UNC/135801879182

Citizens Against Titan Will Rally at Hanover County Courthouse.

2010-02-01T12:41:00.006-05:00

Today the grassroots group, Citizens Against Titan will present Hanover County Commissioners with a petition signed by over 5,000 concerned citizens. The proposed cement plant to be built in Castle Hayne, north of Wilmington, would likely emit hundreds of pounds of mercury annually, along with a number of other greenhouse gases. Much like the coal used to power the plant, limestone the main ingredient in cement, also contains mercury. This makes the cement industry one of the nations top mercury polluters.

In a diverse ecosystem like the one found on the Cape Fear (where the plant is expected to be built), an increase in mercury levels will lead to higher levels of mercury in the surrounding fish populations. If the fish is consumed, the mercury can be hazardous to both pregnant women and small children. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 8% of women that are of childbearing age have enough mercury in their system to put an infant at risk of cognitive and developmental damage. Studies have also shown that higher concentrations of mercury in adults can lead to an increase in the chance of heart disease.

In a letter dated October 2009, EPA officials raised doubts that the plant would be able to meet the new federal air standards. EPA engineers estimated that the plant would emit 263 pounds of mercury annually, that's 230 pounds over the new federal standard. Without proper scrubbing technology the EPA also estimates that the facility will continually emit levels of sulfur dioxide over the federal guidelines. The corporation also has a record of polluting the environment. In 2007, a federal judge shut down a Titan subsidiary's quarry after it was linked to contaminating water sources in the Miami-Dade area.

Without a grassroots movement, the Titan Corporation will profit off the destruction of our environment and health of our citizens. If you would like to lend your support please attend tonight's rally. The specifics are below.

When: MONDAY, February 1st, 4:45 pm to 6:30 pm

Where: 3rd and Princess St. Wilmington, NC in front of the County Courthouse

CORRECTION: The post originally stated the plant would be built on the Neuse; it is proposed for the NE Cape Fear River.

NASA Climate Expert James Hansen Will Urge UNC to Stop Burning Coal

2010-01-29T16:13:00.006-05:00

This upcoming Tuesday, the UNC Beyond Coal Campaign will be hosting a press conference with Dr. James Hansen, NASA's foremost expert on climate change. Dr. Hansen heads NASA's Goddard Institute which predicts atmospheric and climate changes in the 21st Century, he is also an adjunct professor at Columbia University. The press conference comes on the heels of Chancellor Thorpes formation of a new Energy Task Force. That task force is expected to take 6 to 12 months exploring ways to reduce the University's carbon emissions.

Dr. Hansen is expected to warn students,faculty and administrators of the dangers coal poses to the environment and surrounding communities. In a 2008 letter to a number of world leaders including Barack Obama and Gordan Brown, Mr. Hansen called coal, "the single greatest threat to civilization and all life on our planet." In the pre-industrial era carbon dioxide levels in the air were about 280 parts per million(ppm), by burning coal, oil and gas humans have drastically increased this to 385ppm today. If we continue to burn fossil fuels this number will grow by more than 2ppm each year. In that case in less than 50 years all of the worlds glaciers will be gone, species of animals and plants will become extinct as ecosystems are destroyed and the worlds sea levels could rise by nearly 75 meters. These are dangerous statistics that could be devastating for life on earth. Yet there is still hope.

Dr. Hansen predicts that if we stop using coal we could bring carbon dioxide levels down under 350ppm. Universities across the country are taking steps to lead the way, Cornell will go coal free by the end of the year and Duke is cutting its coal consumption by 70%. With the support of concerned citizens UNC can also achieve this goal. Please join us at Tuesday's press conference, and show your support for a coal free campus. Below are the details.

When: TUESDAY, February 2nd, 11:15 am to 11:30 am

Where: In front of UNC's co-generation facility on Cameron Ave., Chapel Hill. Address: 501 W. Cameron Ave, Chapel Hill, NC 27516-2713. Parking is available in visitor spaces at the facility and along Cameron Ave.

Speakers will include: Dr. James Hansen, Director of NASA's climate research center, the Goddard Institute; Patricia Leighton, Chapel Hill resident and neighbor to the plant; Dr. Jose Rial, Glaciologist and Faculty at UNC-CH.

UNC Beyond Coal Spring Kickoff!

2010-01-29T11:26:00.006-05:00

Earlier this week during the State of the Union, President Obama said, "The nation that leads the clean energy economy, will be the nation that leads the global economy. And America must be that nation." Well here in North Carolina we've already begun that fight. This week, the UNC Beyond Coal Campaign kicked off the spring semester with a group meeting focused on brainstorming ideas and recruiting volunteers for upcoming events.

Since September, the Beyond Coal Campaign has been working to end the use of coal at the campus's co-generation power plant. The plant burns over 100,000 tons of coal annually, that makes it the largest source of air pollution in Orange County. It's also emitting dangerous chemicals such as mercury and arsenic, which have been linked to cause cancer, heart disease and an increase in respiratory problems. The effects of the pollution also go beyond Chapel Hill, for years dirty coal mining has caused health risks for communities around the country. In a recent NCSU study in Wise County, Va researchers have linked coal dust kicked up off the road to severe asthma cases in the surrounding community. Ending UNC's coal consumption will only reduce the burden put on these small towns across our nation.

On Thursday the Beyond Coal volunteers held an action day, where they had fellow students hold up a word bubble saying, "Tar Heels for a Greener Campus." Since September the campaign has collected over 1,900 signatures on a petition, which asks the university to end its coal use by 2015. This week Chancellor Thorpe released a statement saying that he will create a task force to review the University's carbon reduction efforts. All though this is a step in the right direction, the Beyond Coal Campaign is still pushing to end the University's dependence on coal. If you are an alumni or just a concerned citizen that would like to lend your support, below you will find links to the campaigns website.

Website: http://coalfreeunc.wordpress.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/coalfreeunc

Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Coal-Free-UNC/135801879182

$544 Million Invested in NC High Speed Rail

2010-01-29T11:23:00.004-05:00

Today, EPA Secretary Lisa Jackson announced a $544 million investment in North Carolina's high speed rail corridor. As Mrs. Jackson said, “Every dollar we spend on high speed rail is an investment in job creation and in cleaning the air we all breathe.” Once again North Carolina will be a leader in the fight to support cleaner transportation solutions. A majority of the funds, nearly 520 million dollars will be invested in enhancing the Raleigh-Charlotte lines, while 24 million will be used for track improvements north of Raleigh. Upgrading the rails to high speed tracks and adding more daily services will enable bussinessman and travlers to not only reach Charlotte in less than two hours, but also choose a transportation mode that is safer for the environment.

In 2009, motor vehicles were responsible for nearly 30% of all Co2 emmisons in NC. Offering citizens an alternative to driving will not only reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, but also improve our air quality. Mr. Stan Myberg of the EPA said, "This investment will significantly help North Carolina's communities reach the new federal air quality standards." Since North Carolina is expected to add an additional 4 million residents by 2030, its critical that we stop relying on motor vehicles and move towards cleaner more effieicent transportation modes. If we don't we will not only face environmental challenges, but our health care cost's will continue to rise as more citizens fall victim to the affects of poor air quality.

Congressman David Price was also eager to put the funding into action, he pointed out that North Carolina is one of only seven states receiving federal high speed rail funding and that it will bring over 4,500 jobs to the state. He mentioned that in 1992 Governor Jim Hunt had a dream to bring high speed rail to Raleigh, since then North Carolina has appropriated over $300 million for the state's inter-city rail service. Congressmen Price told us today,that this federal funding will take us the rest of the way in achieving Governor Hunts dream.

This federal assistance also has the potential to boost North Carolina's economy. The Piedmont region, has already been named one of the countries fastest growing economic regions. The benefits of inter-city rail linking are endless, creating fast, affordable transportation will not only lay the ground work for long term economic growth, but as Raleigh City Councilman Russ Stevenson noted, it will be smart economic growth that focuses on the bigger environmental picture.

Sierra Club State Director Molly Diggins said, that the funding "may well be the single most important accomplishment of the Perdue Administration to date." This funding represents a fundamental shift in North Carolina's transportation policy, with continued support, our citizens will benefit from not only an efficient transportation mode, but also a cleaner, safer environment.

NC Chapter has a new Chair: Ginny Kloepfer

2010-01-13T09:42:00.003-05:00

1. When did you become part of the Sierra Club and what roles have you played in the organization since you joined?

I joined the Sierra Club in 1990 and was drawn to the outings program. I first became involved by signing up for a number of National outings and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting like-minded people from all over the country.

When my husband and I moved to Greenville in 1998, we immediately became involved with our local group. I was the Outings Chair for the Cypress Group for four years and also attended a couple of Sierra Fests before I volunteered to organize a Sierra Fest in 2004. I subsequently took on the job of Chapter Treasurer, became a member of the Chapter Steering Committee and the Chapter Fundraising Committee. A big reason why I became a member of the Sierra Club is because the possibilities for involvement are endless.

2. What are your goals for the NC Sierra Club in 2010? What are your personal goals as Chapter Chair?

This year I take on the daunting task of becoming Chapter Chair. One goal that I have is to strengthen our groups by helping them develop better core leadership and to get volunteers excited about the Sierra Club. I would also like to bring some National programs to North Carolina so that our state becomes a leader in the Southeast for clean energy. The stage has been set. The efforts of Sierra Club volunteers have convinced many of our elected officials to declare their city as a "Cool City." Now we need to take the next step and bring energy efficiencies, conservation and renewables to the local level.

I am very proud of our Chapter staff and feel that they are well respected in the environmental and legislative communities. As a personal goal, I would like to strengthen volunteer support for our staff so they have the resources they need to continue to do their jobs well.

3. Where is your favorite place to hike in North Carolina?

Basically I love to hike anywhere from the coast to the mountains. But if I had my preference, I would spend many days hiking the wonderful national forests and state parks in the western part of the state. To me huffing up a steep mountain trail is much more invigorating than strolling along a beach. We have a beautiful state, I enjoy spending time exploring the natural areas of the state and I want to keep North Carolina beautiful for future generations.

New Chapter Chair: Ginny Kloepfer

Sierra Club Group: Cypress (Greenville and surrounding counties)

Retiring old, polluting coal plants

2009-12-17T11:43:00.005-05:00

More than a week ago, Progress Energy Carolinas announced plans to shutter the more elderly members of its coal fleet: about 1500 megawatts worth of boilers built from 1949-1972. Ultimately, the utility's decision came down to dollars and sense. With stricter environmental regulations forthcoming, as well as further crackdowns on pollution drifting state-to-state, Progress made a pragmatic, responsible decision, one that ultimately protects public health and lessens our state's cumulative impact on climate change. Of course, the NC Utilities Commission must now approve the utility's plans.

Progress should be commended for going one step further than shelving plans to build new plants, but actually taking steps to retire existing plants. The Progress media release, as well as published reports, mention the possibility of converting plants to natural gas.

The lack of commercially viable carbon capture and sequestration technology surely factored into the shift away from coal, and John Murawski at the N & O posits just that. Other factors: a possible "hazardous waste" finding by the EPA on coal ash, concerns about mountaintop removal mining methods, and expected federal legislation to address climate change emissions. All signs point to a recognition of the true cost of North Carolina's "cheap" coal-provided energy.

PACEing energy efficiency projects

2009-12-04T12:21:00.008-05:00

This past legislative session, the Sierra Club worked to pass HB 1389 in North Carolina to help homeowners and small businesses overcome the high upfront costs to clean and renewable sources of energy. Originally, the bill resembled the BerkeleyFIRST model for community efficiency financing. Go figure, but Berkeley, CA, was the really the first to craft a community workaround for today's main obstacle to adoption of cleaner energy sources: high upfront costs. I'm simplifying just a bit, but essentially the Berkeley model works like this:

the homeowner applies to the program
if approved, the city pays the installation cost of the solar system and adds a line item to the property tax that will pay off the cost + interest over 20 years.
the cost is tied to the property.

PACE stands for "property assessed clean energy," but state constitutional issues necessitated North Carolina take a slightly different tack. In NC, cities and counties statewide can now establish revolving loan programs in order to help residents and commercial property owners overcome the high upfront costs of permanent energy improvements (solar panels, geothermal, weatherization, etc). Money for these programs may be allocated from unappropriated funds or federal block grant monies. Much of the program structure is left to the local governments to decide and could allow for improvements ranging from solar panel installations to weatherization measures.

So-called "creative financing" for energy efficiency projects are really just pragmatic; homeowners are more likely to purchase clean energy sources if the price tag resembles a cellular plan (i.e. $/per month over x years) versus a $20,000 one time cost.

Rate "Decoupling" in NC

2009-11-24T14:52:00.006-05:00

Recently, at our annual conservation forum, Ivan Urlaub of the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association gave a quick and thorough rundown on "rate decoupling" and the political feasibility of different strategies to bring it about in a gas and electricity regulated state.

As Ivan explained, our current regulatory policies are price and reliability driven. The investor owned utilities in NC - Duke Energy, Progress Energy, Dominion/NC Power - are regulated monopolies with a guaranteed profit margin, which in turn encourages and fosters a regulatory structure that is volume based. By selling more power, the regulated utilities earn higher revenue, which is good for shareholders but undoubtedly bad for energy efficiency and conservation efforts (but that's a separate post).

Rate decoupling is a way of talking about changing the current rate structure, a difficult conversation when you're talking about guaranteed profit margins. Which is why, in NC, there are basically five overall policy options, with the lowest being the most easily attainable:

Reform regulatory rate structure entirely
Implement technologies that provide customers with clear, easy to understand price signals and consumption information
Funding/financing for efficiency efforts that maintain utility profits.
Third party administered fund for energy efficiency, outside of utility control.
Incentives for consumers to adopt EE.

Rate decoupling is essentially a tool to separate a utility's revenue from energy sales. The way things are, regulated utilities have, as Ivan said, "a disincentive" with regards to efficiency efforts. You can watch video of Ivan's presentation on our Facebook page or check out all the presentation's from that day on our website.

Last day to comment on Titan Cement

2009-11-19T12:49:00.010-05:00

Along the banks of the mercury impaired Northeast Cape Fear River, Titan America plans to build the fourth-largest cement plant and limestone mine in the country. Proposed emissions: over 140 hazardous and toxic air pollutants including mercury, particulate matter, nitrogen oxide (NOx), and sulfur dioxide.

That's all in the draft air permit, over which the public comment period ends today. Inextricably linked with the public health and water quality issues is the rapid pace the state has taken with the permitting process.

As our Cape Fear group chair wrote back in September, normally a project of similar size and scope would trigger the NC Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). SEPA is triggered when the following conditions are met: (1) state permitting is needed for the project (2) the project will have significant environmental impact, and (3) public money has been accepted by the company. All conditions seem to apply to the proposed cement kiln in Wilmington. Titan has claimed that though they accepted $4,000,000 in public money, it doesn't apply to Point 3 because the funds are technically a reduction in taxes after the project is completed. The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) originally determined that SEPA applied, but subsequently rescinded.

And there's more, of course. The US EPA currently has draft rules w/r/t emissions from cement kilns, and the maximum limit laid out in those rules would be exceeded by the permit granted to Titan America by the state of North Carolina. As the Charlotte Observer put it: "The state has put the cart ahead of the horse..."

Update: In a letter dated November 18, 2009, Joe Sinsheimer asked Governor Perdue for "a 90-day freeze on the Titan Cement environmental permitting process," among other things. You can read the letter and analysis at the News & Observer. In an interview, the Governor stated in response that she would look into Sinsheimer's concerns, and said specifically regarding Titan Cement: “I have asked the attorney general’s office, the SBI, to see if there was any kind of — I don’t know the word, I’m not a lawyer — if there was anything that wasn’t aboveboard in the decision making, and I believe they will.”

NC's role in national climate debate

2009-09-02T10:29:00.000-04:00

Cathy Duvall, Sierra Club's National Political Director, spoke last night in Chapel Hill about the future of climate legislation on Capitol Hill and the role North Carolina might play in the vital debate. A sizable crowd filled 3 Cups to the brim to hear how Sierrans can play a major role in breaking the stranglehold that utilities hold over the South and bring about real change.

With Congress back from its August recess, the debate on Waxman-Markey and Barbara Boxer's (D-CA) expected companion legislation in the Senate will head towards resolution. Senators from the South - Kay Hagan in particular - will play a key role in the success or failure of the bill.

Intermodal Bill now law

2009-09-02T10:08:00.001-04:00

Apple Server Farm

2009-08-18T11:39:00.000-04:00

Earlier this summer, Apple selected Maiden, North Carolina, as the future location of a massive new server farm. Mass speculation continues to this day over its purpose (re: with no search engine, what's it for?) - iPhone Apps? Cloud computing services like MobileMe or the iTunes store?

Regardless of its unannounced purpose, here's what we know from published reports.

Size.

183 acres. Development of the one billion dollar, 500,000-square foot building was scheduled to begin as early as August, but we've yet to see any word that construction has broken ground.

Energy Use.

The numbers on this, unfortunately, are all over the map. It's hard to tell which sources are speculative...so, a few key points.

A similar 174 acre server farm built in California uses 180 megawatts of energy, enough to power all the homes in Honolulu. But that was back in 2002.

The buildings need to stay around a temp of 68 degrees, so air conditioning in these buildings, especially in the South, are large power drainers.

From Data Center Knowledge: County officials have also been working with T5 Mission Critical Facilities, a company formed recently by former members of the data center practice at the Staubach Company. T5 is developing a site near Route 321 in with an existing 150,000 powered shell with up to 120 megawatts of power available for a single large user. The company says the power from Duke Energy is priced at 3.8 to 4.4 cents per kWh.

A large water project in nearby Hickory will also help cool the plant.
Another interesting quote about location and energy use:
"That parcel was a winner because it has access to large amounts of power and water and both primary and backup supplies of each, he said.

That redundancy will be key to keeping Apples' many computer servers powered and cool, even if there is a storm or water-line break.

A 36-inch water line from Hickory runs 2,000 feet from the site and a new, smaller loop line in the same area will provide backup service. Duke Energy also has two major lines running south from Hickory and north from Lincolnton.

The data center will use about 20 megawatts annually – enough to power 16,000 homes."

Solipsism anyone?

2009-07-28T09:43:00.000-04:00

Echoes and reverberations of the "drill, baby, drill" chorus won't go away. It hit NC, too, in 2008, and now we have a July 28, 2009 byline.

The Southeast Energy Alliance, a consortium of oil and gas interests, recently revealed what's waiting just off the coast - jobs and money, allegedly.

If only I could give the estimate a closer look... You see, as of 10:14 a.m. Google won't let me visit the site of the Southeast Energy Alliance. The Warning: "This site may harm your computer." Bing: ditto. That rules out me actually reading the report, but I can probably intuit its contents: drilling is an economic panacea and if only those dastardly environmental hippies weren't preventing people from having jobs.

Well, no. Let's recap. The main reason many environmental groups oppose offshore drilling is that it doesn't really solve any of the problems it's purported to.

It takes years and millions in subsidies to get the oil.
The oil conglomerates aren't required to sell the oil here in the US.
Fossil fuels aren't efficient, the price fluctuates at the whim of vaguely understood interest groups like OPEC and speculators, and the emissions aren't all that great (purposefully understated).

How about some NC based reasons:

Do we really want massive tankers in "the Graveyard of the Atlantic?"
Hurricanes
No oil refineries in our state
See reason 2 above and replace "US" with "NC"

To my mind, the worst frame on offshore drilling is the constant appeal that this is about state's rights. Well, actually, the waters of the state of North Carolina extend to about three miles offshore, and the sounds, and maybe a few other small outliers. Further than that and you've got federal waters and federal leases.

So, let's look at the Gulf states, who are apparently just rolling in the oil dough. From the same article linked above:

Gulf states currently share royalties from federal leases, but the figures are modest: about $25 million shared among four states last year.

By those numbers, each state got a whopping $6.25 million dollars. Last I checked, the North Carolina budget deficit stood over a billion dollars. Plain and simple, the typical (remember, I can't get access to the report so I have to generalize) pro-drilling argument is comprised of oversimplifications, wishful thinking and endless speculation.

What we know: the NC coast has thriving fisheries and an economically important coastal tourism industry, both of which would be impacted by drilling. It's a cost/benefit situation, not a win/win.

Steven Chu on the Daily Show

2009-07-22T11:30:00.000-04:00

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Steven Chu

http://www.thedailyshow.com/

Daily Show
Full Episodes

Political Humor

Joke of the Day

Our own Atlantic garbage patch?

2009-07-21T11:49:00.000-04:00

The Great Pacific garbage patch gets all the press, but we have our own swirling sea of refuse and plastic debris - sort of. Take a boat just past the Gulf Stream off our coast and you'll enter the North Atlantic Gyre, which is quickly gaining notoriety for trashiness.

A UNCW staffer is headed out to investigate, map, and chronicle the Sargasso Sea's increasing likeness to a landfill, and you can follow her exploits here: the Plastic Ocean.

From their website:

UNCW’s Bonnie Monteleone and Jennifer O’Keefe, Director of Keep America Beautiful- New Hanover County, will represent North Carolina’s passion for the ocean by going out into the Atlantic Gyre, followed by Monteleone joining Algalita Marine Research Foundation into the North Pacific Gyre. They will be taking samples to quantify pelagic plastics found on the oceans surface, collecting surface feeding fish to necropsy for ingested plastics and bringing national awareness to the issues of man made debris entering our oceans.