Green-News: Tuesday 10.14.08
- At high altitude ozone PROTECTS us, but at low elevation it promotes respiratory illnesses. And research shows Californian’s recent wildfires have pushed ozone levels BEYOND “safe” limits; the NewScientist Environment reports.
- Ericsson plans to construct wind-powered cell-phone towers. Vertical turbines will REDUCE power consumption by 40%, but the towers may still need to be grid-connected to ensure a stable signal; via earth2tech.
- Beijing, which saw its pollution-levels plummet during the Olympics, will REINSTATE traffic restrictions. Banning half of its 3.4 MILLION cars from the road during periods of heavy pollution; from the Associated Press.
- We’re used to thinking of asbestos as a toxin, that MUST be removed, but some experts suggest just leaving it alone or painting over it. This doesn’t disturb the dangerous fibers and seals them in place; The New York Times reports.
- Spain’s 26,000 hectares of horticulture are generating a GOOD greenhouse effect. The buildings’ white roofs are reflecting so much sunlight, they’re actually REDUCING local temperatures; more from the NewScientist Environment.
- Global warming initiatives, like laws to reduce carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases, are LOSING their urgency amid the U.S. financial crisis. Focus has shifted to STABILIZING the economy; ENN reports.
