Posts Tagged clean energy

LA’s Solar Power, Green Jobs Potential Largely Untapped

“World Bank financing has help put solar power systems on more than 300,000 homes and small businesses in Bangladesh. Working with its local partners, the World Bank’s International Development Association IDA’s Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Project (RERED), is aiming to boost that to more than 1 million with an additional $172 million credit facility.

Imagine what could be done here in the US if local, state and the federal government really got behind and supported solar and renewable energy. A lot of potential lies untapped, in many cases solely due to a lack of political will and determination.

An academic study conducted by researchers from UCLA and USC found that there’s a wealth of untapped human resources in LA just waiting to be employed in the solar energy industry. City and civic leaders have thus far failed to enact policies that would take advantage of it, however.”

LA’s Solar Power, Green Jobs Potential Largely Untapped via Andrew Burger – Triple Pundit

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Over 150 Countries Join "Moving Planet" Day to Push for Clean Energy Solutions

Hundreds of thousands prepare for the world’s largest “day without fossil fuels”

Moving Planet - A Day to Move Beyond Fossil Fuels - September 24, 2011

INTERNATIONAL — Is it possible for the world to move beyond fossil fuels? On September 24, more than 150 countries are expected to take part in a global day events called “Moving Planet” dedicated to the goal of solving the climate crisis by ending the world’s dependence on fossil-fuel energy.

From Pacific islands to European capitols, hundreds of thousands will join creative rallies to show that people around the world are ready for clean energy and climate solutions.

“The planet has been stuck for too long with governments doing nothing about the biggest problem we’ve ever faced,” said Bill McKibben, the founder of 350.org, the international climate campaign that is coordinating the demonstrations. “This is the day when people will get the earth moving, rolling towards the solutions we need.”

“Moving Planet” events will include:

  • In the Dominican Republic, students will paint the country’s first bike lane in Santo Domingo.
  • In Brazil, thousands of cyclists will take to the streets of São Paulo to call for sustainable transportation solutions.
  • In India, thousands of people gathered in Andhra Pradesh for a public meeting on the impact of coal pollution in the region.
  • In Indonesia, cyclists will bike 350 hours from Bali to Bandung for a clean energy rally. In Italy, hundreds of cyclists will take to the busy streets of Milan to draw attention to local pollution and traffic congestion.
  • In Ukraine, hundreds are expected to join a “flash-dance” in Kiev’s main square.
  • In Egypt, hundreds of people will parade in blue clothing to create a human Nile river, drawing attention to the importance of protecting precious water resources.
  • In South Africa, thousands will join a parade in Cape Town to call on the South African government to support bold climate action at this November’s UN Climate Talks in Durban.

Photos and videos of the events will be projected at a rally outside UN Headquarters in New York City, where world leaders will be gathered for the UN General Assembly.

“Moving Planet” is meant to show politicians that in every country on Earth, people are demanding an end to the fossil-fuel economy and an immediate transition to clean energy solutions.

Featured Global Events

North America:

  • In New York City, thousands of people will bike the United Nations headquarters for a rally to show their support for a global climate treaty.
  • In Boston, thousands of people from across the state will gather in Boston Common to call on politicians running for office in 2012 to support bold action on climate and the environment.
  • In San Francisco, thousands will come together via bike, boat, foot, and electric car for a rally outside San Francisco City Hall with 350.org founder Bill McKibben and Sierra Club Executive Director Mike Brune.
  • In Minneapolis, thousands of Minnesotans will gather at the state capitol to show their support for solutions to the climate crisis.
  • In Colorado, thousands will join a “Power Past Fossil Fuels” bike ride from the Municipal Building in Boulder to the State Capitol Building in Denver, stopping to rally at coal plants and other iconic dirty energy faciltities along the way.

Latin America:

  • In the Dominican Republic, students painted the country’s first bike lane in Santo Domingo.
  • In Argentina, a bike group will be giving out free bicycle lessons to pedestrians in Buenos Aires.
  • In Brazil, hundreds of cyclists will take to the streets of São Paulo to call for sustainable transportation solutions.

Asia:

  • In India, thousands of people gathered in Andhra Pradesh for a public meeting on the impact of coal pollution in the region.
  • In Indonesia, cyclists will bike 350 hours from Bali to Bandung for a clean energy rally.
  • In Vietnam, thousands of volunteers will take the streets in Ho Chi Minh City and across the country to raise awareness about solutions to local air pollution and climate change.

Europe:

  • In Italy, hundreds of cyclists will take to the busy streets of Milan to draw attention to local pollution and traffic congestion.
  • In Ukraine, hundreds are expected to join a “flash-dance” in Kiev’s main square.
  • In Germany, people will parade through Berlin listening to dance music broadcast by a DJ pulled by an electric car.
  • In France, hundreds of people will gather in Paris to form the image of a giant wind-turbine to demand the “transition énergétique,” an immediate transition to renewable energy.

Africa:

  • In Egypt, hundreds of people will parade in blue clothing to create a human Nile river, drawing attention to the importance of protecting precious water resources.
  • In the Democratic Republic of Congo, organizers are hosting a bike race through the streets of Kinshasa.
  • In Kenya, hundreds of young people will take to the streets of Nairobi to demand solutions to the climate crisis.
  • In South Africa, thousands will join a parade in Cape Town to call on the South African government to support bold climate action at this November’s UN Climate Talks in Durban.

Pacific:

  • In New Zealand, amateur astronauts in Wellington will be “launching” a rocket to search for a new planet to move to. If the launch fails (as expected), they’ll turn to saving the planet we already have.
  • In Australia, hundreds will gather on Bondi Beach in support of the Prime Minister’s proposed price on pollution.

For more information and to find a Moving Planet event near you, visit http://www.moving-planet.org. Keep up with Moving Planet throughout on Facebook and Twitter @Moving_Planet

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GREEN FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY OCTOBER 29-30

The nation’s largest green living event comes to Los Angeles Convention Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS: Georgia Malki
Denise Hamler
Phone: 828-333-9403 x 125
202-872-5303
Georgia@sevenstarevents.com
denisehamler@greenamerica.org

Summer Eco-Fashion at Green Festival

LOS ANGELES – The nation’s premier green living event comes to Los Angeles October 29-30 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This year, Green Festival celebrates a ten year milestone with over one million attendees in eight cities.

This unique experience celebrates positive solutions working in our communities.  It is where people come to meet renowned authors, actors, visionaries and community leaders; shop with hundreds of green businesses; participate in DIY workshops; enjoy live music and local vegan and vegetarian cuisine; and join friends at the organic beer and wine garden.

“In Mayor’s Villaraigosa ongoing commitment to make Los Angeles one of the world’s Greenest Cities,  he is happy to welcome Green Festival  to Los Angeles and looks forward to opening the festival on October 29th, says Romel Pascual, Deputy Mayor of Environment for Los Angles Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa.

Ten stages and pavilions will host more than 125 inspirational and educational speakers and teachers, including: Dolores Huerta, Amy Goodman, Tom Hayden, Marianne Williamson, Rev. Lennox Yearwood and the Hip Hop Caucus, John Perkins, Starhawk, Mark Hertsgaard, David Korten, Jeffrey Smith, Jodie Evans and many more.

Spanish language programming will include Latino cooking demonstrations, greening your home and garden, and activities for the whole family at the Green Kid’s Zone.

“We are excited to host the inaugural Green Festival in Los Angeles and bring Angelenos together to learn how to bring sustainability into their lives,” says Jonathan Parfrey, Climate Resolve Executive Director and a commissioner at the Department of Water & Power Board.  ”For those of us who care about Los Angeles and its future, the Green Festival is a place to talk about climate change and how to prepare to adapt.”

With the holiday season just around the corner, Green Festival is the perfect location to support local businesses all in one location.  The Green Marketplace profiles hundreds of green and socially responsible businesses and organizations. Attendees browse everything from green, non-toxic home furnishings to organic clothing to Fair Trade gifts, children’s toys and much more.

“Whether you go to shop, learn, or experience art and music, Green Festival has it all, it is a great place to celebrate what is working in our communities and find the sustainable solutions that fit your lifestyle,” says Denise Hamler, Green Festival Director.

Green Festival offers something for the entire family. Peruse the latest in earth-friendly casual wear and couture in the eco-fashion show. View socially and environmentally impactful film shorts at the Communications Revolution Stage and the Sierra Club Green Cinema. Discover the latest in environmentally responsible construction materials and methods in the Green Building Pavilion. Move and meditate in the Yoga and Movement Pavilion. Empower your inner entrepreneur and find your next green career with Green Business Seminars.

Check out the latest in all-electric and hybrid transportation at the Ford Pavilion and enjoy a test drive right at the Green Festival.  Join Ford in celebrating social and environmental innovation in the community and vote for local individuals and nonprofits to win a $5,000 Ford Community Green Grant.

A joint project of Green America and Global Exchange, Green Festival is a non-profit 501c3 event to explore and build sustainable solutions for successful communities and a healthier environment.

Engage with Green Festivals online at www.GreenFestivals.org.

Connect with Green Festival on Facebook and Twitter @GreenFestival.

Sign up for the Green Festival Newsletter at www.greenfestivals.org/newsletter for program updates and giveaway opportunities.

Become a Green Festival volunteer and get free admission volunteer@greenfestivals.org.

Green Festival Partners make the event possible: Ford, The Los Angeles Times, Sierra Club, Earth Balance and Democracy Now.

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About Green America

Green America is a national nonprofit organization founded in 1982, providing the economic strategies, organizing power and practicing tools for businesses and individuals to address today’s social and environmental problems. Its Green Business Network is the largest national network of businesses screened for their social and environmental responsibility.  www.greenamerica.org

About Global Exchange

Global Exchange is a membership-based international human rights organization dedicated to promoting social, economic and environmental justice around the world. Since its founding in 1988, Global Exchange has successfully increased public awareness of root causes of injustice while building international partnerships and mobilizing for change. www.globalexchange.org

About Seven-Star, Inc.

Seven-Star, Inc. is the nation’s premier green full-service event company focusing exclusively on green events. Since 1999, Seven-Star has provided turn-key green event services for environmentally responsible and socially respectful (eR/sR) festivals, trade and consumer expositions, conferences and concerts. Events include the greening of the 2007 International Live Earth events, 2008 Democratic National Convention events, and Green Festivals. Seven-Star is the first event company to win the EPA’s Gold Waste Wise Award for Excellence in recognition for their proprietary system of event waste diversion, which has consistently achieved greater than 92%.www.sevenstarevents.com

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Major U.S. companies converting fleets to electric and hybrid vehicles

“Just as the EPA keeps tabs on companies that use green energy for buildings and stamps out Energy Star labels for efficient appliances, the Department of Energy has begun recognizing companies that are greening their vehicle fleets.

The National Clean Fleets Partnership helps companies that are trying to reduce their use of gasoline and diesel by connecting them with clean fuel providers and equipment manufacturers in the hope of accelerating the adoption of clean, advanced, energy-efficient vehicles across the U.S.”

Major U.S. companies converting fleets to electric and hybrid vehicles via Barbara Kessler – ABC Green Right Now

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U.S. Backs Project to Produce Fuel From Corn Waste

“WASHINGTON — The Energy Department plans to provide a $105 million loan guarantee for the expansion of an ethanol factory in Emmetsburg, Iowa, that intends to make motor fuel from corncobs, leaves and husks.

Experts say that the new factory, being built by POET, a major producer of ethanol derived from corn kernels, could be the first commercial-scale plant to make ethanol from a nonfood, or cellulosic, plant source. However, POET would first have to overcome technical hurdles in scaling up its production from the current pilot project, which processes one ton of plant matter per day, to a plant capable of processing 700 tons of biomass a day. High volume is necessary to make cellulosic ethanol competitive with the corn-based version.”

U.S. Backs Project to Produce Fuel From Corn Waste via Matthew Wald – NY Times Environment

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Rooftop Solar Power Could Meet Half of New York City's Peak Energy Needs

“Solar power has been growing in New York City, but the installed capacity pales in comparison to the city’s potential. That’s at least according to a new study, illustrated by the map above, that found two-thirds of the city’s million-plus rooftops are suitable for solar panels—and collectively could meet half the city’s energy demand during peak hours, and 14 percent of the city’s total annual use. (And that’s accounting for typical weather conditions.)”

Rooftop Solar Power Could Meet Half of New York City’s Peak Energy Needs via Rachel Cernansky – Treehugger

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The Safe Bet: Renewables

“We live in a world dominated by risk. Corporations obsess over it; governments are ruled by it. Those in power make decisions based on the likelihood of unforeseen events—sudden conflict, popular uprisings, disasters. As we enter the second decade of the twenty-first century, we’re beginning to see a new pattern, a new landscape of threat, emerging from the wreckage of Fukushima, Macondo and Misrata. A series of unexpected events have overthrown governments and brought huge companies to the point of collapse. It’s time for the decision-makers to realize that dirty energy is no longer the safe bet. Renewable energy is safer, smarter and more resilient.”

The Safe Bet: Renewables via Kumi Naidoo – The Nation

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For young environmental activists, Obama's now the one to pressure

“Reporting from Washington— Not so long ago Barack Obama and his campaign team might have masterminded the kind of conference that is unfolding in downtown Washington, D.C.

Thousands of college students and idealistic young voters came in this weekend to learn organizing techniques aimed at pushing the country toward renewable energy.

But in a measure of how much has changed since the “Yes We Can” spirit of Obama 2008, many in attendance now see him as something of an obstacle.

Frustrated by the pace of clean-energy initiatives, they are planning to use organizing techniques borrowed from the Obama campaign to pressure him to rethink his energy policy.”

For young environmental activists, Obama’s now the one to pressure via Peter Nicholas – LA Times

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Green Festival Seattle Takeaways

“This past weekend I attended Seattle’s 10th Annual Green Festival where hundreds of vendors and exhibitors enthusiastically shared their green stories. One vendor that stood out for me was Eco Tapi, developers of compostable and biodegradable paper and plastic products made out of tapioca! Not only was the product interesting, but they also had a beautiful way of merchandising such utilitarian wares. Their parent company, Green Tokyo, makes a variety of interesting eco-products.”

Green Festival Seattle Takeaways via EcoMaven NW

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Green Festival 2011 Offers Organics, Innovations, and much, much more

The 2011 Green Festival took place this past weekend at the Qwest Field Events Center in Seattle, bringing with it a host of innovations and green products, as well as some truly energizing and eye-opening speakers. If you missed the event, don’t worry – there are more Green Festivals to come later this year, including stops in New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco, so be sure to check their website for future dates and tickets.

The Seattle festival was as energetic and illuminating as fans of the annual event have come to expect, with attractions ranging from local gardening advice to national environmental campaigns – via the samples at the organic chocolate tables, naturally. The two-day festival also offered a small beer and wine garden for the responsible adults, while the food options included a host of vegetarian delights, including felafel, burritos, and meat-free sausages.

Green Festival 2011 Offers Organics, Innovations, and much, much more via Dan Coxon – Seattle CultureMob

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