CARBON IN THE NEWS
WEEK 15 2012
Iceland's volcanoes may power UK
The volcanoes of Iceland could soon be pumping low-carbon electricity into the UK under government-backed plans for thousands of miles of high-voltage cables across the ocean floor.
The energy minister, Charles Hendry, is to visit Iceland in May to discuss connecting the UK to its abundant geothermal energy. "We are in active discussions with the Icelandic government and they are very keen," Hendry told the Guardian. To reach Iceland, which sits over a mid-ocean split in the earth's crust, the cable would have to be 1,000 to 1,500km long and by far the longest in the world. Hendry has already met the head of Iceland's national grid about the plan. The web of sea-floor cables – called interconnectors – planned for the next decade would link the UK to a Europe-wide supergrid, which is backed by the prime minister. The supergrid would combine the wind and wave power of northern Europe with solar projects such as Desertec in southern Europe and north Africa to deliver reliable, clean energy to meet climate change targets and reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports. To read this article in full click here
The Rodgers Cup recognized for its Green Initiatives
The Rogers Cup in Montreal was recognized for its green initiatives last week at the first edition of the “Vivats” Awards which are meant to recognize the work of event organizers in the province of Quebec who have exemplary green initiatives in place. The tournament won the Transportation and Energy Efficiency award which acknowledges an event’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its spectators and participants. The Rogers Cup was also one of three finalists nominated for the prestigious “Grand Vivat” award, the highest honor given by the Quebec Council for eco-responsible events. Since 2007, Tennis Canada has been committed to sustainable development based on the organization’s own values including adopting a healthy lifestyle, responsible citizenship, ethics, and pride. Involved in the socioeconomic activities of its community, Tennis Canada has for a mission to promote sustainable development in sport. To read this article in full click here
Shipping FedEx Envelopes Carbon-Neutral
The iconic FedEx Envelope, which is already made from 100% recycled content and is 100% recyclable, is getting another environmentally-friendly boost Friday. FedEx Express, an operating company of FedEx Corp., is launching a carbon-neutral shipping program for its most widely-used packaging solution for document shipping, making it the first global express transportation company to offer carbon-neutral envelope shipping at no extra charge to the customer. FedEx Express will make an investment in global projects that displace or sequester greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere, neutralizing the impacts of the carbon emissions emitted during the shipment of all FedEx Envelopes around the world. The commitment supports EarthSmart® — FedEx solutions for a more sustainable world. To read this article in full click here
Lower carbon footprint at HSBC
HSBC continued to maintain these positive results by investing in cutting edge technology through its €8 million branch refurbishment programme, by revamping its Valletta Head Office which was inaugurated in January 2011, and by the installation of other energy saving technologies. The major single property contributing to this achievement was the Bank's Operations Centre in Ħal Qormi where a nearly 7% energy reduction was achieved. Initiatives taken at the Centre included completely refurbishing the staff canteen, integrating new inverter drive air-conditioning units, a Building Management System (BMS), controlling A/C operation and temperature ranges, together with intelligent sun shading cutting solar heat within the building in the warm seasons, whilst permitting maximum heat gain and natural lighting in the colder months. Other initiatives at the Centre included a complete re-think of the night lighting cutting energy use by over 8,000 kWh, as well as improved management of electrical equipment by the BMS. HSBC also replaced all of its 700 halogen lamps with LED equivalents. To read this article in full click here
Quark Expeditions offer first carbon neutral voyages in polar travel history
Quark Expeditions, the leader in polar adventures, announces another addition to the company’s long list of polar “firsts.” Quark will offset the emissions of the Ocean Diamond, the company’s newest ship, thereby offering the first carbon neutral voyages in polar travel history. Travelers to Antarctica, one of the world's most remote and remarkable destinations for once-in-a-lifetime vacations, will be guaranteed to have a "green” experience at no added cost to any passenger. “Since the company’s inception, Quark has been committed to environmentally responsible tourism,” said Hans Lagerweij, president of Quark Expeditions. “By operating the Ocean Diamond Antarctica voyages as carbon-neutral, we show it’s possible to visit incredible places and preserve them for future generations. The average emissions per passenger are significantly lower than some former Quark vessels.” To read this article in full click here
Veolia Environmental Services Introduces New Fleet Of Compressed Natural Gas Powered Trucks
Veolia ES Solid Waste, Inc., the solid waste division of Veolia Environmental Services North America (VESNA), today announced the introduction of Indiana’s first fleet of compressed natural gas (CNG) powered refuse trucks to its Evansville, Indiana (Vanderburgh County) service area. A ceremony attended by Mayor Lloyd Winnecke, Veolia executives and members of the Evansville community was held today at the Veolia ES Solid Waste – Evansville location to celebrate the company’s new fleet and CNG fueling station. Indiana-based manufacturer Autocar built the chassis for 20 of the trucks and Kenworth manufactured eight roll-off trucks for Veolia’s new fleet. All will service over 24,000 residential and commercial customers across Vanderburgh, Warrick, Gibson, Posey, Spencer and Henderson counties in the greater Evansville area. Customers will notice the new trucks run approximately 15 percent (8-10 decibels) quieter than trucks powered with diesel engines. The trucks also come equipped with automated collection systems that increase efficiency, protect the health and safety of drivers, prolong the life of the truck and further reduce emissions. To read this article in full click here
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