Rhino poachers, meet your match: poisoned pink food dye

Rhino poachers, meet your match: po...

Demand for rhino horn increased exponentially over the past few years. The market is heavily concentrated in Asia, particularly Vietnam. Rhino poachin...

For many years, the electric car has been the face of eco-friendly alternative energy. The cars operate on rechargeable batteries as opposed to gasoline, and are thus perceived as an ideal way of going green, since they do not deplete fossil fuels or release emissions harmful to the environment. Recently, however, the electric car has been the subject of scrutiny, with some critics claiming that these vehicles are not, in fact, as eco-friendly as the purport to be. Cause for Concern Electric cars have come under fire for two main reasons. First of all, some critics are concerned that the batteries used to power the cars are not produced in an environmentally friendly fashion. Secondly, some have pointed out the electricity that is used to charge the car battery is not generated via green technology. Both concerns suggest that while there might be some environmental benefits gained from eliminating the use of gasoline, these pros are cancelled out by the irresponsible ways they are manufactured. Norwegian Study The study that has brought the most publicity to this issue, and which has provided the best support for these criticisms, was conducted at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Researchers at the university studied the overall impact of the electric car on the environment, and determined that ultimately, the production of these vehicles is just as harmful to the environment as that of a regular car. In fact, some evidence from the study suggests that electric cars may even have a greater negative impact than a more “traditional” car. The Reasoning The main evidence for these findings lies with the materials used to manufacture the vehicle. Researchers point out that purchasing a used vehicle would be a more environmentally responsible choice than purchasing a brand new electric car, which requires energy and raw material to build. They are particularly concerned about the ways that the batteries are both produced and disposed of, which they argue does more harm than good. Analysts involved in the study also noted that the electricity used to power the cars is typically produced by coal, a factor that seems to undermine the claim that electric cars eliminate the need for fossil fuels. The Response Experts both within and outside of the electric vehicle industry, however, have been quick to denounce the claims put forth by the Norwegian study. These individuals concede that the production of any vehicle will require the use of energy, but also note that the long-term benefits of electric cars outweigh the environmental costs levied during their production. They also note that when charged from an electric grid, these cars are infinitely more environmentally responsible even than hybrid vehicles. In light of recent research, the overall verdict seems to be that electric cars are eco-friendly—but perhaps not as eco-friendly as the marketing would suggest. Ultimately, the individual who purchases and drives an electric car must also do his or her part to ensure that the electricity used to charge the car battery comes from a sustainable source, so as not to negate the positive effects of the vehicle. Steve Hood is a reader, researcher and a freelance writer who like to share his passion about eco-friendly technologies that can change our world in a better one. Currently he writes for SellYourCarFast.com.au

Electric Cars: Are They Really Eco-...

For many years, the electric car has been the face of eco-friendly alternative energy. The cars operate on rechargeable batteries as opposed to gasoli...

Some Free State dams ‘completely dry’

Some Free State dams ‘completely dr...

At least 26 towns in the Free State are facing a water crisis, the DA said on Tuesday. “At least 26 towns... currently have no water at all in cert...

When will governments learn that GE crops are uncontrollable?

When will governments learn that GE...

Shockwaves are being felt across the world's wheat markets following the first-ever discovery of unauthorised genetically engineered wheat growi...

Rhino poachers, meet your match: poisoned pink food dye

Published on: June 19, 2013 Wildlife & Endangered Species no comments

Rhino poachers, meet your match: poisoned pink food dyeDemand for rhino horn increased exponentially over the past few years. The market is heavily concentrated in Asia, particularly Vietnam. Rhino poaching has leapt to keep pace with demand, and South Africa’s rhinos are among the most affected.

According to the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), between 2010 and 2012 the number of rhinos killed for their horns went from 333 to 668. So far in 2013, 216 rhinos have been poached in South Africa’s Kruger National Park alone. That is more death the past five months than in the years 2000-2008 combined. The rhino population in Mozambique, which was wiped out by large game hunters a century ago and later reintroduced to the national parks, has again been eradicated, this time with the connivance of some of Mozambique’s own rangers.

Convictions for poaching and trafficking in rhino horn are rare. But the US Attorney’s office in Los Angeles, California announced on May 16 the conviction of Vinh Chung “Jimmy” Kha, and Felix Khaon for, among other crimes, smuggling rhino horn into the United States with the intent of selling it to Vietnam. READ MORE

118 total views, 27 views today

Rhino poachers, meet your match: poisoned pink food dye 4.50/5 (90.00%) 2 votes

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Electric Cars: Are They Really Eco-Friendly

Published on: Alternative Energy and Fuel News no comments

For many years, the electric car has been the face of eco-friendly alternative energy. The cars operate on rechargeable batteries as opposed to gasoline, and are thus perceived as an ideal way of going green, since they do not deplete fossil fuels or release emissions harmful to the environment. Recently, however, the electric car has been the subject of scrutiny, with some critics claiming that these vehicles are not, in fact, as eco-friendly as the purport to be. Cause for Concern Electric cars have come under fire for two main reasons. First of all, some critics are concerned that the batteries used to power the cars are not produced in an environmentally friendly fashion. Secondly, some have pointed out the electricity that is used to charge the car battery is not generated via green technology. Both concerns suggest that while there might be some environmental benefits gained from eliminating the use of gasoline, these pros are cancelled out by the irresponsible ways they are manufactured. Norwegian Study The study that has brought the most publicity to this issue, and which has provided the best support for these criticisms, was conducted at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Researchers at the university studied the overall impact of the electric car on the environment, and determined that ultimately, the production of these vehicles is just as harmful to the environment as that of a regular car. In fact, some evidence from the study suggests that electric cars may even have a greater negative impact than a more “traditional” car. The Reasoning The main evidence for these findings lies with the materials used to manufacture the vehicle. Researchers point out that purchasing a used vehicle would be a more environmentally responsible choice than purchasing a brand new electric car, which requires energy and raw material to build. They are particularly concerned about the ways that the batteries are both produced and disposed of, which they argue does more harm than good. Analysts involved in the study also noted that the electricity used to power the cars is typically produced by coal, a factor that seems to undermine the claim that electric cars eliminate the need for fossil fuels. The Response Experts both within and outside of the electric vehicle industry, however, have been quick to denounce the claims put forth by the Norwegian study. These individuals concede that the production of any vehicle will require the use of energy, but also note that the long-term benefits of electric cars outweigh the environmental costs levied during their production. They also note that when charged from an electric grid, these cars are infinitely more environmentally responsible even than hybrid vehicles. In light of recent research, the overall verdict seems to be that electric cars are eco-friendly—but perhaps not as eco-friendly as the marketing would suggest. Ultimately, the individual who purchases and drives an electric car must also do his or her part to ensure that the electricity used to charge the car battery comes from a sustainable source, so as not to negate the positive effects of the vehicle. Steve Hood is a reader, researcher and a freelance writer who like to share his passion about eco-friendly technologies that can change our world in a better one. Currently he writes for SellYourCarFast.com.auFor many years, the electric car has been the face of eco-friendly alternative energy. The cars operate on rechargeable batteries as opposed to gasoline, and are thus perceived as an ideal way of going green, since they do not deplete fossil fuels or release emissions harmful to the environment. Recently, however, the electric car has been the subject of scrutiny, with some critics claiming that these vehicles are not, in fact, as eco-friendly as the purport to be.

Cause for Concern

Electric cars have come under fire for two main reasons. First of all, some critics are concerned that the batteries used to power the cars are not produced in an environmentally friendly fashion. Secondly, some have pointed out the electricity that is used to charge the car battery is not generated via green technology. Both concerns suggest that while there might be some environmental benefits gained from eliminating the use of gasoline, these pros are cancelled out by the irresponsible ways they are manufactured. READ MORE

96 total views, 21 views today

Electric Cars: Are They Really Eco-Friendly 4.67/5 (93.33%) 3 votes

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Some Free State dams ‘completely dry’

Published on: South Africa Environmental Issues & News no comments

Some Free State dams ‘completely dry’At least 26 towns in the Free State are facing a water crisis, the DA said on Tuesday.

“At least 26 towns… currently have no water at all in certain areas, water supply disruptions, or extremely unhygienic water coming from their taps,” Democratic Alliance provincial leader Patricia Kopane said in a statement.

A survey, conducted by DA representatives, found the problems were mainly due to “dilapidated” water treatment plants and pipes. Some dams in the region had also run dry.

The Free State’s water affairs department was not immediately available for comment.

Kopane said the towns identified in the party’s survey were Jacobsdal, Fauresmith, Trompsburg, Bethulie, Smithfield, Zastron, Wepener, Dewetsdorp, Dealesville, Brandfort, Theunissen, Winburg, Soutpan, Tweespruit, Marquard, Clocolan, Steynsrus, Fouriesburg, Memel, Warden, Petrus Steyn, Lindley, Parys, Koppies, Vredefort, and Oranjeville.

She said in the Letsemeng, Mohokare, Dihlabeng, Phumelela, and Ngwathe municipalities, residents had no adequate water supply “because of poor water management and lack of maintenance”. READ MORE

99 total views, 14 views today

Some Free State dams ‘completely dry’ 2.33/5 (46.67%) 3 votes

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When will governments learn that GE crops are uncontrollable?

Published on: GM Foods, Crops, Biofuels, Pesticides no comments

When will governments learn that GE crops are uncontrollable?Shockwaves are being felt across the world’s wheat markets following the first-ever discovery of unauthorised genetically engineered wheat growing on a US farm – a development that gives further proof that GE crops cannot be controlled.

The discovery of Monsanto’s GE wheat, confirmed by US authorities, sparked alarm among Washington’s trading nations, pushed wheat prices lower and is threatening US exports. It should not be seen, however, as totally unexpected.

The GE wheat is a herbicide tolerant wheat (probably MON 71800) that Monsanto tested in fields across 16 states between 1998 and 2005. The wheat was never authorised and never commercialised because Monsanto withdrew its application in May 2004 following massive global opposition from farmers, consumers and environmentalists.

So what happened between the last field tests in 2005 and the announcement of a contamination in a Oregon eight years later? How did it get there? Who is responsible? Who will pay for the decontamination? Is the contamination limited to one farmer’s field in Oregon or is it only the tip of the iceberg of a wider problem? Will Canada, where the GE wheat was also tested, be affected by the contamination? READ MORE

89 total views, 17 views today

When will governments learn that GE crops are uncontrollable? 3.67/5 (73.33%) 3 votes

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Gauteng Goes Solar Route

Published on: Alternative Energy and Fuel News no comments

A project to install rooftop solar panels on government buildings in Gauteng will begin in the 2013/14 fiscal year, a member of the executive council for infrastructure development said on Thursday. "This will enable us to harness the sun’s rays to meet, in part, government’s energy needs," Qedani Mahlangu said while tabling the department's budget vote. The project was expected to cost about R11.2bn, and could generate up to 300MW of electricity. "The entire project will be self-funding, from existing financial resources meant for current electricity costs," she said. The roll-out would also drive job creation and enterprise development, as the project had local content requirements. The infrastructure development department's budget allocation grew by four percent on the previous year, to R1.47bn. On the education front, 14 new schools would be built and 29 projects would be undertaken to restore existing school infrastructure. Mahlangu said the cost of building a school in Gauteng was not comparable with that in other provinces, because the market realities, the size and quality of schools vastly differed. Job creation in Gauteng would receive a boost with a R130m allocation to the expanded public works programme (EPWP), and R224m to community-based programmes. Recruit techies "For the 2013/14 financial year, our target is to create 118 581 employment opportunities at provincial level, and 77 289 at municipal level, through the revamped EPWP." The programme aimed to benefit 65 220 women, 47 432 youth and 2 372 people with disabilities. Mahlangu said the department aimed to transform itself into the premier construction and project management organisation in the provincial government, able to compete with the private sector in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, and innovation. A departmental scan had identified a need to review the department's integrated systems, skills shortages in key strategic and operational areas, and its organisational structure. The scan found that the department’s human resources employed 80% administrative staff, and only 20% technical staff. "We have, over the past year, undertaken a concerted drive to recruit the technical expertise that will enable us to execute... construction and maintenance work..." Until now, 214 technical staff, including 143 artisans and 71 engineers, had been appointed, and another 42 technical posts were in the process of being filled. The department would also renew its efforts to attract and retain the necessary technical expertise at all levels. Mahlangu said the department operated at the "coalface of service delivery". Gas pipelines To secure reliable support services, qualified professionals had been deployed as resident engineers in charge of maintenance at hospitals, including Chris Hani Baragwanath and Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospitals. The department had developed a support structure which committed to attending to minor breakdowns within 24-hours and to major breakdowns within seven days. Artisans, engineers, technicians and inspectors at hospitals were able to carry out day-to-day maintenance and also respond to emergencies. In March, Sasol’s monopoly of the natural gas industry would end, and the industry would then be regulated by the National Energy Regulator of SA. "Our first project is the replacement of the 77 coal-fired boilers in Gauteng hospitals with natural gas- or diesel-fired boilers," Mahlangu said. This fiscal year, 21 boilers would be replaced and the rest would follow in the next three years. "A study by iGas reveals that approximately 186km of additional natural gas pipeline infrastructure is required to supply natural gas to 25 hospitals at an estimated capital cost of R1.4bn." The natural gas infrastructure would also benefit households, as the pipeline would run through townships and suburbs. Initial research suggested that nearly half of the province's households were a potential market for natural gas reticulation for cooking and heating. - SAPAA project to install rooftop solar panels on government buildings in Gauteng will begin in the 2013/14 fiscal year, a member of the executive council for infrastructure development said on Thursday.

“This will enable us to harness the sun’s rays to meet, in part, government’s energy needs,” Qedani Mahlangu said while tabling the department’s budget vote.

The project was expected to cost about R11.2bn, and could generate up to 300MW of electricity.

“The entire project will be self-funding, from existing financial resources meant for current electricity costs,” she said.

The roll-out would also drive job creation and enterprise development, as the project had local content requirements.

The infrastructure development department’s budget allocation grew by four percent on the previous year, to R1.47bn.

On the education front, 14 new schools would be built and 29 projects would be undertaken to restore existing school infrastructure.

Mahlangu said the cost of building a school in Gauteng was not comparable with that in other provinces, because the market realities, the size and quality of schools vastly differed.

Job creation in Gauteng would receive a boost with a R130m allocation to the expanded public works programme (EPWP), and R224m to community-based programmes. READ MORE

82 total views, 13 views today

Gauteng Goes Solar Route 3.50/5 (70.00%) 2 votes

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