http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/ General News Feed en-gb 22/03/2010 22/03/2010 http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/ Carbon Advice Group RSS Editor 1.0 info@carbonadvicegroup.com info@carbonadvicegroup.com 5 Energy generated from hydropower could be provided to up to 15 million homes in the UK by 2050, according to the government.The clean, cheap energy produced by hydropower could also help reduce carbon emission levels and create as many as 16,000 jobs, energy minister Lord Hunt explained.If marine energy is fully taken advantage of, it is anticipated up to 70 million tonnes of carbon dioxide could be saved by 2050.`Harnessing the power of our seas will help us reduce our carbon emissions, provide clean, green, secure and reliable energy, create jobs and provide export opportunities,` Lord Hunt said during a visit to Strangford Loch in Northern Ireland.Strangford Loch is home to the world`s first commercial-scale tidal stream turbine, which generates enough power for 1,000 homes.The SeaGen turbine was installed in April 2008 and works like an underwater windmill with tidal flows propelling its two rotors.A hydro-electric power plant in Portugal uses Alstom technology to combine and store wind and hydro energies, Euronews.com reported. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1111 The Carbon Trust and the University of York are looking into how microwave technology could be used to turn garden and wood waste into biofuel.Pyrolysis is the process the trust will be exploring, which involves the use of microwaves to heat waste in the absence of oxygen.The carbon footprint of the new pyrolysis biofuel could save 95 per cent of carbon compared to fossil fuels, according to the Carbon Trust.A new consortium was also announced by the Trust, which will be led by Axion Energy. It hopes to enhance existing pyrolysis technology to produce biofuels created from organic waste materials. `Genuinely sustainable biofuels will be critical to help reduce the UK#146;s transport emissions,` Tom Delay, chief executive of the Carbon Trust, said.`In just a few years pyrolysis could change the way in which we produce biofuels and by 2020 be a commercially viable option.`The Carbon Trust is also preparing to launch a #163;350 million low-carbon investment fund, designed to buy and refurbish commercial property in the UK. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1112 A strategic partnership has been agreed between the government of the Maldives and La Compagnie Benjamin de Rothschild (CTBR) to move forward the country`s pledge to become carbon neutral by 2020. TBR will be responsible for securing international finance to fund a carbon footprint audit and master plan for the country, The Hindu reported. BeCitizen, a strategic and environmental finance consulting firm, will carry out a two-month assessment of the carbon footprint of the Maldives once the funding is secured. This will detail emissions from all sectors of the economy such as transport, housing and tourism. The pact was signed during a meeting between president Nasheed, Baron Benjamin and Baroness Ariane de Rothschild at Chateau de Pregny. Following the completion of the audit, BeCitizen will develop a detailed Carbon Neutral Master Plan that outlines how the country can meet its 2020 carbon neutral goal. The carbon audit and Carbon Neutral Master Plan are expected to be completed during 2010. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1108 Carbon emissions could be significantly reduced by prescribed burning programmes in natural forests, according to the findings of recent studies into the impacts of forest fire.A study carried out by the US National Centre for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) of western US forests discovered controlled, cooler burning, that is used by forest managers to protect bigger trees, release substantially less carbon dioxide emissions than wildfires of the same size.`It appears that prescribed burns can be an important piece of a climate change strategy,` Christine Wiedinmyer, a scientist at NCAR, said.`If we reintroduce fires into our ecosystems, we may be able to protect larger trees and significantly reduce the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere by major wildfires.`Widespread prescribed burns can reduce fire emissions of carbon dioxide in the West by an average of 18 to 25 per cent and by as much as 60 per cent in certain forest systems, according to scientists#146; conclusions that have been drawn from satellite observations and computer models of emissions.The NACR and university scientists work together on research topics such as atmospheric chemistry, climate and cloud physics. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1109 Nissan has announced it is to manufacture its new electric car, the Leaf, in Sunderland.Production of the Leaf will commence in 2013 and makes up part of the Japanese firm#146;s #163;420 million investment in electric cars.A #163;20.7 million government grant and a proposed finance package from the European Investment Bank of up to #163;197.3 million will also be used to support the investment.According to Nissan, the car will be the world#146;s first affordable mass-produced zero emission car.Around 50,000 Nissan Leafs will be produced at the premises in Sunderland.`This investment is a fantastic vote of confidence in the Sunderland plant and its excellent workforce. This news from Nissan shows that the UK can achieve its aim of becoming a world leader in ultra-low carbon vehicles,` business secretary Lord Mandelson said.Ford has also recently revealed it will invest #163;1.5 billion over the next five years to develop more fuel efficiencies at four sites in the UK. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1110 Champagne bottles are to become lighter in an attempt to cut carbon emissions. The Interprofessional Committee of Champagne Wine has revealed it is launching a new standard bottle to reduce emissions. It will look the same as the standard bottles but weigh 835g instead of 900g, meaning vehicles that are transporting it will need less fuel. The change will reduce carbon dioxide output by 8,000 metric tonnes a year. This is the equivalent of the annual emissions of 4,000 cars. `There is a double advantage, ecological but also economic because of reduced transportation costs,` Paul-Francois Vranker, chief executive of the Vranken-Pommery house, a pioneer in the move towards lighter bottles, told The Times. To make sure the new bottle holds up under the pressure of champagne bubbles, the industry worked alongside glassmakers. Champagne bottles are twice as heavy as an ordinary wine bottle to withstand the high pressure. This month, PepsiCo announced it is launching a new pilot program to test multiple approaches using reduced-carbon fertilizers to cut the carbon footprint of its Tropicana orange juice. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1106 Glastonbury Festival`s organisers are encouraging festival goers to arrive by coach to help slash the event`s carbon emissions. Ticket`s for this year`s festival are available with a return or single coach travel tickets from a selection of UK destinations to attempt to urge more people to choose public transport for the event, Coach Broker reported. Acts that are already confirmed for the festival include U2 and Muse, according to GlastonburyLineup.co.uk. `Travelling by coach reduces the number of cars on the road which means less traffic queuing to enter the site and less CO2 emissions from cars in slow traffic approaching the site,` the organisers wrote on the festival`s site. The festival`s organisers have worked out that ticket holders` travel to the event will contribute to two thirds of the festival`s total emissions. Tickets for the event have already sold out but a ticket re-sale date has been announced for April 11th. Coaches are planned to leave from a variety of cities in the UK including Bristol, London, Manchester, Leeds, Nottingham, Taunton, and Winchester. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1107 Smurfit Kappa UK`s packaging division has received the first Carbon Trust Standard for a multi-site packaging company.The manufacturer of paper-based packaging solutions has attempted to tackle climate change by measuring and reducing its carbon footprint by 11 per cent over a 12-month period.A carbon emission reduction of 8,000 tonnes has been made across the company`s 20 sites, which equals 10kg for each tonne of product the firm makes.Smurfit Kappa strategic development director Ian Naylor believes cutting carbon is a priority for the organisation.`Increasingly our customers are identifying that wider environmental issues influence consumers buying decisions and consumers will welcome a major packaging company undertaking real carbon reduction action,` he said.The company, which is committed to making further reductions in the future, has made a wide range of changes in the way it operates to improve its annual energy consumption. These include installing steam boiler condensate recovery systems and inverter drives to reduce plant and machinery energy consumption.Recycling solution provider Valpak`s `closed loop` battery recycling collection system was developed with the support of Smurfit Kappa. Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1105 Around eight million tonnes of carbon could be saved every year if manufacturers adapted the design of their products.According to a new eight-year study into the carbon footprints of over 2,000 consumer products, using better eco-design principles could help reduce carbon emissions.Testing and certification specialist Bureau Veritas discovered that by modifying the production process of five staple household products, their emissions could be substantially reduced.`While consumers are making huge efforts to recycle and buy responsibly, many companies are still making and selling products that could easily have their environmental impact reduced considerably, but have yet to take the necessary steps to support the efforts of their customers,` Xavier Vital of Bureau Veritas said.The study also drew attention to the failure of the government`s forthcoming Carbon Reduction Commitment legislation to address the issue of carbon resulting from the production of parts that are imported from countries outside of the UK or Europe.Bureau Veritas helps clients comply with standards and regulations relating to quality, health and safety, environment and social responsibility. Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1104 More couples are integrating environmentally-friendly options into their wedding plans.Founder of green event production company Pink Cloud Events Sarah Shewey told Mother Nature Network that brides and grooms are getting past misconceptions that green weddings can`t be impressive affairs.`There are more options now than there were before. There are more businesses that are popping up and offering eco-friendly services or highlighting the eco-friendly aspects they were doing before,` she explained.One Pennsylvania couple`s enchanted forest themed wedding printed invitations on recycled paper and included centrepieces that featured plants instead of cut flowers.Editor of New Zeland Wedding magazine Melissa Gardi believes that as couples become more environmentally conscious, the wedding industry has had to adapt.Some couples have also been planting trees to offset guests` carbon emissions from aeroplane travel.This month, PM Custom Weddings launched a new line of environmentally friendly wedding invitations that are printed on 100 per cent recycled paper. Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1103 Taiwanese president Ma Ying-jeou has been encouraging the public to plant trees in an attempt to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.Mr Ying-jeo set an example by planting a tree to mark Arbor Day, which is a holiday in which individuals and groups are encouraged to plant and care for tress.The president spoke at a tree-planting activity in Taipei County, saying the government has been promoting a reforestation programme that aims to reclaim 60,000 hectares of forest over eight years.Last year, Taiwan`s carbon dioxide emissions decreased by 4.4 per cent. If each of the country`s 23 million people were to plant a single tree, the carbon dioxide released by 200,000 air conditioners would be cleared.One tree can absorb up to 10 kg of carbon dioxide, according to the Forestry Bureau under the Council of Agriculture (COA).This month, Australian power station operator Delta Electricity began planting trees in a scheme to create carbon-neutral fuel and reduce its use of coal, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1101 Nissan has started production of its eco-car model, the Nissan March, in Thailand.The March is the first model to be launched within Thailand`s eco-car programme, which will target domestic and regional markets.Vehicle manufacturers will also be offered tax incentives to produce energy-efficient cars in Thailand.Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi and Suzuki are among the other automobile manufacturers that have joined the programme.Manufacturers taking part in the programme must comply with low fuel consumption, passenger safety and emissions requirements that are set by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.As well as producing the March for the Thai market, Nissan will export the car to other Asia-Pacific markets.The March is already manufactured in China, India and Mexico and is known as the Micra in Europe.A 1.2 litre, three-cylinder engine with 120 grams of carbon dioxide emissions per kilometre are among the features of the newly-developed March model.Carbon dioxide emissions from new cars fell by their biggest ever margin in the last year, according to the annual New Car CO2 Report released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1102 Around 540,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions are produced by the UK music industry a year, according to researchers from the UK and US.Three-quarters of these emissions are a result of live music performances, Environmentalresearchweb, which is part of the Guardian Environment Network, reported.The rest of the emissions are caused by music recording and publishing.`This is the first study to map the greenhouse-gas emission profile of the music industry,` Catherine Bottrill of the University of Surrey told Environmentalresearchweb. `Furthermore, there are few publicly available studies of service industries and we can`t think of one directly comparable.`The University of Oxford`s Environmental Change Institute`s not-for-profit company Julie`s Bicycle commissioned the study and, according to Ms Bottrill, there was a need for such a piece of original research.Case studies were collected by the researchers from across the industry. This data was then scaled up to estimate total emissions.It was calculated that audience travel accounts for 43 per cent of greenhouse-gases produced and other live venue music events create 23 per cent.Julie`s Bicycle was set up to help the music industry cut its greenhouse emissions and create a low carbon creative future. Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1100 The Fiat brand and Fiat Group have posted Europe`s lowest volume-weighted CO2 emissions, according to automotive research firm JATO. Fiat Automobiles logged a CO2 average of 127.8 g/km, compared to 2009`s results of 133.7 g/km. It was put ahead of companies such as Toyota, Peugeot, Ford, Volkswagen, Renault and Citroen. Fiat also came out on top among the motor groups with a CO2 average of 131.0 g/km. Andrew Humberstone, managing director of Fiat Group Automobiles in the UK and Ireland, said: `These are important figures as they show not just the environmental impact of one or two of our cars, but the whole range.` The average emissions figure for every vehicle Fiat sold last year was included in the statistics. These showed that the company had beaten the European average target of 130 g/km five years ahead of it being implemented. Earlier this month, Fiat announced it would equip its 500 model with a new eco-friendly green fuel engine in an attempt to step up emissions reductions. Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1098 A fashion designer has created an Arctic catwalk to try to demonstrate the issue of global warming. Karl Lagerfield showed his latest collection at the Grand Palais in Paris, with a backdrop of a giant melting iceberg. Invites received by fashionistas such as Lindsay Lohan and Vanessa Paradis featured a sketch of the endangered polar bear. To create the Arctic landscape, 240 tonnes of ice was needed. The clothes the models wore were also adapted for the eco-theme. Chanel`s classic tweed suit was reinforced with fur-trimmed sleeves and hems. In keeping with the environmentally-friendly theme, the designer also included fake fur. `There wasn`t any real fur, it`s all fake. The word `synthetic` is horrible, fake fur used to be hideous but there`s been enormous progress,` Mr Lagerfield said. The last collection of fashion designer Alexander McQueen, who died last month, was also shown at Paris Fashion Week. Intricate detailing, dramatic capes and gothic designs featured in his autumn/winter 2010 line. Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1099 Fuel consumption and emissions can be reduced by medium and heavy duty commercial trucks being made from aluminium rather than steel, according to Alcoa`s division manager for product design and development Todd Summe.Speaking at the National Truck Equipment Association`s Green Truck Summit in St. Louis, Mr Summe suggested aluminium `offers the commercial vehicle industry tremendous advantages to reduce costs, while increasing its sustainability`, Purchasing.com reported.According to Mr Summe, aluminium can eliminate 30 tonnes of lifecycle carbon dioxide emissions and increase the payload of weight-constrained heavy trucks by 3,300 pounds.Aluminium has reduced factory emissions by 86 per cent between 1990 and 2006 and Mr Summe has a goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.Switching to aluminium for cab structures, doors, forged wheels, frame cross members and fuel tanks are among the light weighting options in large trucks.At the Green Truck Summit the NTEA also announced the formation of a new affiliate division called the Green Truck Association (GTA). Once it launches later this spring, the GTA will help improve the market for green truck applications. Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1096 Energy company RWE npower will spend #163;100 million to help it reduce its carbon dioxide emissions and boost capacity at its Little Barford gas-fired power station. The upgrade project in Cambridgeshire will be carried out by US-based GE Energy and is hoped to slash the plant`s emissions by around 40,000 tonnes a year. It is also expected the changes will help to increase the capacity at the plant to 700 MW, up from its current 680 MW electricity generation capacity. `Modern gas-fired power stations are already the cleanest fossil fuelled power stations. This project will increase power output as well as cutting the station`s carbon footprint - ensuring we will be in the best position to provide reliable power generation into the future,` said Kevin McCullough, chief technical officer for RWE npower. The upgraded GE Energy turbines will begin commercial operations by the third quarter of 2012, the UK arm of German utility RWE revealed. RWE npower serves around 6.6 million customers and produces over ten per cent of the electricity used in England and Wales. Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1097 Bush pilot Don Ross is cycling 6,000 miles from Fairbanks in Alaska to Washington in an attempt to raise awareness of climate change.He is also hoping his bike ride will encourage people to use their cars less and make them aware of the need to find alternatives to fossil fuels, The Salt Lake Tribune reported.`We really need to create a clean, renewable fuel so we can break our addiction to fossil fuel and use less, and leave something for our children,` he told the paper.Mr Ross became aware of the evidence of climate change whilst flying around the Arctic National Wildlife Reserve. It was here that he experienced milder winters and warmer summers and witnessed open water where ice should be.The retired navy jet pilot is hoping he will reach Washington by April 22nd, which is Earth Day.Earlier this month, London mayor Boris Johnson pledged to cut carbon emissions by 2025 through initiatives that encourage walking and cycling. He said his Cycle Safety Action Plan would explore the main factors causing bicycle accidents and find ways to reduce them. Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1095 PepsiCo is trying to cut the carbon emissions created through the production of its Tropicana drink by experimenting with different fertilizers.The company is working with two agricultural companies #151; Yara International and Colorado-based Outlook Resources #151; to test low-carbon fertilizers at one of its production farms in Bradenton, Florida, Time reported.If successful, the green fertilizers could reduce the carbon emissions of the company`s citrus growers by up to 50 per cent and lower the total carbon footprint of Tropicana orange juice by as much as 20 per cent.Yara and Outlook are trying to reduce the need for natural gas in their fertilizer by experimenting with calcium-based alternatives that would completely eliminate nitrous-oxide emissions.Earlier this year, Tropicana became the first US brand to be Carbon Trust-certified. In late January, the company announced it had formed a partnership with the government-backed independent organisation to certify the carbon footprint of several of its products including Tropicana. Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1094 Builders carrying out green retrofits will be critical to meeting the government`s targets for cutting carbon emissions, according to an expert. Gordon Miller, founder of whatgreenhome.com, also showed his support for the Warm Homes, Greener Homes strategy. The scheme hopes that by 2020 it will have offered eco-upgrades to seven million households through initiatives such as pay-as-you-save. Mr Miller backs the strategy as it provides long-term loans to cover the cost of carrying out green home improvements.He explained: `Clearly, retrofitting and bringing the existing homes up to speed is absolutely critical if we are going to meet our own emissions targets and reduce CO2 emissions.` Customers are willing to make long-term savings despite the high prices of renewable technologies such as solar panels. This month, energy and climate change secretary Ed Milliband announced details of the green loans scheme which will see loans made available from 2012. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1092 Gardeners are being urged to stop using peat-based compost in an attempt to cut carbon emissions. Diarmuid Gavin, the star of the BBC`s Gardeners` World, has been drafted in by the government to help persuade the public to use a peat-free alternative. Peat is present in almost half of all compost sold by garden centres. If amateur gardeners were to stop using peat compost it would not only cut their carbon footprint but protect the biodiversity and wildlife in lowland raised bogs. According to Mr Gavin, consumers` concern about what they can do to protect the environment is at a record high. `Using peat-free products in the home and garden is one of the simplest, yet most effective ways that people can make a positive environmental impact and reduce their carbon footprint,` he added. Amateur gardeners are responsible for using around 70 per cent of the UK`s peat and an estimated half a million tonnes of carbon dioxide is emitted every year as a result of peat extraction from sites in the UK to use in horticulture. Recycling promotion organisation WRAP`s composter advisor Peter Hill recently shared his tips for a peat-free garden on The Guardian`s website. Peat-free composts are ideal for potting up established seedlings but need different handling to peat, he explained. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1093 La Madre is making efforts to offset it carbon footprint by introducing carbon-neutral hot cross buns this year. The boutique baker anticipates that production will double and other products will be launched by Christmas. A selection of boutique outlets, cafes and restaurants are supplied by the baker, which is based in Geelong, Australia. The Carbon Reduction Institute was called upon when the company expanded last year, to advise on the best ways Le Madre could reduce its carbon footprint, By purchasing carbon credits from Karnatake Renewable Energy Project in India, the baker is able to offset its production. La Madre owner Anna Spurling announced the firm is aiming to produce more than 10,000 carbon-neutral buns. She said: `La Madre Bakery is taking a holistic approach to its business, of which looking after the environment plays a significant role.` Another company keen to cut its carbon footprint is Tesco. The supermarket recently trialled the use of plastic bottles for its spirits range to reduce emissions from packaging. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1091 The International Maritime Organisation is moving closer to introducing a carbon regulation for the shipping industry.According to a senior industry official, efforts are being made to introduce a carbon tax to encourage energy-efficient ships, Emirates Business 24-7 reported.Jacob Sterling, general manager for Sustainability at Maersk Line, told the news provider that the organisation is working with the council to have a carbon dioxide regulation for shipping.`It should be done in a way to encourage efficient shipping. If we have an efficient ship then we don`t have to pay as much as those with inefficient ships. This is the major industry-wise initiative that is going on right now,` he explained.Maersk, which is one of the world`s biggest shipping firms, plans to cut emissions by 20 per cent by 2017 and five of its units are already carrying out tests on a large container vessel in the hope that it will cut CO2 emissions and diversify fuel supply.The company is also part of Clean Cargo Working Group, which is a group of container shipping firms that discuss setting standards for efficiency and CO2 reductions in the industry. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1089 Rivers could be used to generate electricity for nearly a million homes if up to 26,000 hydropower turbines were built in the UK, according to a report.The Environment Agency believes that more than three per cent of the UK`s electricity demand could be met by the water wheels.According to the government body`s study, there is untapped potential across England and Wales for generating energy from rivers.It would cost around #163;4 billion to build all of the turbines, which would be paid for by the private operators of the individual schemes.At least 5,000 sites around England and Wales have been identified as suitable for small to medium scale schemes to be built.`With the government`s new feed-in tariff for renewably generated electricity, hydropower could become an attractive income generator for hydropower developers, if environmental safeguards are met,` head of climate change and sustainable development at the Environment Agency, Tony Grayling, said.The Environment Agency is a non-departmental public body that aims to protect the environment and promote sustainable development. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1090 A government report has revealed that basic efficiency improvements could reduce national emissions and save businesses over $700 million (#163;421 million).The assessment of nearly 200 large energy users discovered improving efficiency could stop almost 6.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from being emitted, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. This would amount to a 1.1 per cent reduction in the national carbon footprint each year and the energy savings could be used to power 1.4 million homes for a year.National emissions would drop by almost five per cent if the largest companies improved efficiency by 15 per cent, according to industry group the Energy Efficiency Council.Council chief executive, Rob Murray-Leach, told the paper: ``Economic purists have been telling us that if there were $100 notes lying around, industry would have already picked them up. This report shows that companies have blind spots - sometimes you have to help them find the $100 notes.`Earlier this month, Marks amp; Spencer announced it intends to be the world`s most sustainable retailer by 2015, adding 80 new pledges to its existing ethical plan. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1088 Tesco is trialling the use of plastic bottle for its brand of spirits in an attempt to cut carbon emissions from its packaging.As part of its initiative, the company will also introduce lightweight glass wine bottles.The new bottles weigh 300g and are 30 per cent lighter than its previous lightest own-label bottles.By switching its own-label brandy from glass to plastic bottles, the supermarket has already managed to reduce its packaging by 86 per cent.Due to the success with its brandy packaging, the company has been inspired to carry out the glass to plastic switch across its entire spirits range.It is also currently working in collaboration with its suppliers to try to cut the packaging of products.`Tesco is always breaking new ground with innovative approaches to packaging,` Lucy Neville-Rolfe, executive director at Tesco, said.Last month, the retailer opened the world`s first zero carbon supermarket. The Cambridgeshire-based supermarket boasts eco-friendly features such as a combined heat and power plant which runs on bio fuels from renewable sources. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1086 Van and car hire company Sixt has launched its electric vehicle hire scheme in London to help drivers reduce their carbon footprint.Under the Sixt rent a car scheme, the Fulham branch of the company will be the first of the outlets to offer the zero emissions cars for hire.As part of the drive to lower emissions, the firm will introduce a range of Ev`ie Citroen models.The 5-door Citroen vehicle, which has a range of 75 miles and a top speed of 60mph, can be topped up from a domestic power point for as little as 95p.In addition to helping save the environment, the scheme will reduce drivers` fuel and operating costs.Sixt is an international vehicle rental company, offering car and van hire in 3,500 locations and 90 countries. It offers a service with over 26,000 vehicles from more than 150 rental locations in the UK. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1087 The University of Portland (UP) has announced its Climate Action Plan to cut carbon emissions, joining over 600 universities nationwide that have drafted similar plans.Its three-phase plan aims to result in the university becoming carbon neutral by 2040, The Beacon reported.Efforts made by UP will be made in conjunction with the American College amp; University Presidents` Climate Commitment.Through this, colleges and universities will be called on to adopt leadership roles regarding the reduction of their emission of greenhouse gases.`The very fact that we`re putting a stake in the ground is a great thing because the urgency of the climate issue is not going away,` Bill Barnes, business professor and chair of PACOS, told the paper.UP`s Presidential Advisory Committee on Sustainability has now begun drafting a strategy and timeline to help it address climate change as an institution.The strategy will focus on changing practices that contribute to the problem of greenhouse gas emissions. Its first phase will include UP neutralizing carbon emissions directly occurring from sources owned or controlled by the university.Elsewhere, schools in North Lincolnshire could be encouraged to reduce their carbon footprint by the council ranking them in order of their energy efficiency, This is Scunthorpe reported. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1085 The Jumeirah Beach Hotel has achieved carbon emission reductions thanks to the installation of a new ABB engineering technology.Due to the technology, the hotel has become more environmentally responsible and energy-efficient, Trade Arabia reported.The venue`s heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system allows it to ensure its guests and colleagues are comfortable and safe by providing temperature and humidity control, fresh air and building pressure control.Before the new technology, the hotel`s system had relied on motors that ran at fixed speeds and did not allow for varying demand for power depending on the time of day or environmental conditions.Such motors, which run at fixed speeds, can cause higher energy consumption as HVAC systems account for more than 60 per cent of a hotel`s total energy consumption.Keith Tose, director of Engineering at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, told the news site: `Considering this is only the first phase of the installation, we#146;re very impressed with the huge reductions in energy consumption that we#146;ve experienced.`By switching to ABB variable speed drives, the hotel has cut energy consumption and reduced harmful carbon dioxide emissions by 35 per cent per year.Earlier this month, the Guardian published a list of the top ten eco ski lodges and hotels, which included Alta Terra in France and Monte Rosa Mountain Refuge in Switzerland. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1084 Indonesia and Australia have unveiled their multi-million dollar initiative to cut greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in Sumatra.Immediate threats to the Indonesian island will be addressed by the Sumatra Forest Carbon Partnership, which is worth $30 million (#163;19.9 million).The UN hopes the scheme will start from 2013 as part of a broader climate pact to succeed the existing Kyoto Protocol.Indonesia-Australia Forest Carbon Partnership coordinator Neil Scotland told AFP: `The partnership in Jambi is a demonstration activity, which is a pilot project to show how you can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in practice.`The country is currently one of the highest emitters of greenhouse gases due to its rapid deforestation by legal and illegal loggers.Indonesia plans to reduce its emissions by 26 per cent by 2020. Last year Reuters reported that the nation will make deeper cuts if rich countries were to provide it with funding. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1082 Ferrari has announced new environmentally-friendly models at the Geneva Motor Show.The company`s California will become the first supercar to offer a Stopamp;Start engine, which helps to save money and cut emissions.Fuel consumption is reduced by six per cent thanks to the engine and carbon dioxide emissions are lowered to 280g/km, which Ferrari says is less than some family cars.Also unveiled at the show was the organisation`s HY-KERS, which is based on its 599 GTB Fiorano.The experimental vehicle demonstrates the hybrid solutions the company is developing, including batteries below the floorpan and a compact electric motor.Over 100 horsepower is produced by the electric motor and algorithms are included to control torque, traction and braking.The company aims to have the technology as an option across its entire range of cars by 2015. According to automotive intelligence company JATO Dynamics, the growth in popularity of eco-friendly vehicles is helping to drive down average carbon emissions around Europe. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1083 Homeowners will have the chance to take out long-term green loans to use for energy efficient property improvements under new government plans.The money can be used for energy-saving measures in homes such as insulation, solar panels and double glazing. Loans taken out will be repaid through consumers` energy bills.In addition to saving consumers money, the plan would help reduce carbon emissions and allow the country to get closer to meeting its climate change targets.By 2020 the government hopes to save 29 per cent of carbon emissions from homes in the UK.As well as enabling seven million British households to benefit from upgrades, the scheme will create 65,000 jobs in the green homes industry, according to energy secretary Ed Miliband.Already 500 homes in areas such as Birmingham, Sunderland and Stroud have tested a #163;4 million pilot for the Pay As You Save scheme.This week, Mr Milliband announced the government wants councils to play a larger part in energy generation. He believes that if local authorities were to sell electricity generated by them through renewable sources it would encourage the development of local renewable electricity projects. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1081 A lower-carbon option will be available for homeowners thanks to the launch of new domestic gas boilers that can simultaneously generate electricity and heat.The micro-combined heat and power (micro CHP) units look like normal wall-hung boilers but generate heat as well as producing electricity as a by-product.Conventional electricity generation can be inefficient as heat is wasted in the power station, with as little as 35 per cent of the energy in the fuel burned in the plant reaching homes.The new Ecogen device creates enough electricity for a one-bar electric fire as a byproduct of heat generation.Although larger devices similar to the micro CHP have been available for some time, the new units are the first to be comparable in size to a conventional boiler.The Ecogen by Baxi will be launched at London`s Ecobuild show and will go on sale at the beginning of April through British Gas.Last month, the government announced that since January nearly half of the vouchers made available as part of its boiler scrappage scheme have been snapped up. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1079 Fuel-efficient driving should become a mandatory part of the driving test, according to a new campaign from the CBI.Tackling Climate Change Closer To Home hopes to cut consumers` transport emissions and motoring costs.Fuel costs would be cut by five to ten per cent if drivers were to adopt more energy-efficient motoring techniques as part of the driving test, the group highlighted.In its campaign to make consumers reduce their carbon footprint in the home and car, the CBI also calls for council tax rebates for householders who improve their energy efficiency and the extension of the boiler scrappage scheme to white goods such as fridges.A new website called My Carbon Savings has also been launched by the organisation to encourage consumers to do more to become environmentally friendly.The CBI is a lobbying organisation for UK business on national and international issues that works with the UK government, international legislators and policymakers to help companies compete effectively. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1080 Climate change may extend the pollen season and lengthen the time that people with allergies such as hay fever suffer, according to a study.Doctors from Italy that carried out the 26-year study discovered that an increased amount of pollen in the air was extending later into the year.Pollen counts were carried out during the allergy season and the length of time each of the five types of pollen lasted.The research was focused in Italy`s Bordighera region between 1981 and 2007.Dr Walter Canonica, who helped carry out the study, told Reuters: `By studying a well-defined geographical region, we observed that the progressive increase of the average temperature has prolonged the duration of the pollen seasons of some plants and, consequently, the overall pollen load.`The most notable of the plant species was the parietaria, which had a pollen season that began 80 days earlier at the end of the study period than it did at the beginning of the research.Elsewhere, climate change has been seen to affect coffee crops. Higher temperatures have forced some producers to move to prized higher ground. Tue, 2 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1077 A new energy-saving device has been launched that aims to cut electricity bills and can be fitted to most electrical systems.The imop can be used on industrial and commercial appliances that consume electricity such as heaters, motors and fluorescent lighting.When attached, the device makes it run more efficiently. It also helps lower carbon emissions and maintenance costs.Minimise, the company behind the device, claims that the imop can cut electricity bills by as much as 25 per cent.Managing director Paul West points out that governments are putting increasing pressure on companies to reduce carbon emissions.`It is likely that financial penalties will be imposed. By installing imop products using the Carbon Trust loan scheme, businesses can safeguard themselves against such future costs, effectively for free,` he told Green Wise Business.Energy and Climate Change secretary Ed Milliband has also been promoting environmentally friendly measures. Last month, he visited Manchester to launch new energy-saving electricity meters in the Northern Quarter, Crains Manchester Business reported. Tue, 2 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1078 APM Terminals has announced that its carbon dioxide emissions from its network of terminals dropped by eight per cent in 2009 when compared to 2008 levels.The decrease in emissions was achieved through `aggressive measures to improve fuel economy`, PortWorld News reported.Introducing environmentally sustainable terminal operating practices over the past year were also a factor in the cuts.`Currently we have 80 to 100 environmental projects ongoing, but we need to further accelerate the best practice sharing process to maximize energy reductions,` APM Terminals senior director of sustainability Henrik Kristensen said.Each of the company`s terminals is assessed for fuel efficiency and other factors in environmental impact, receiving an environmental report card.In order to improve environmental performance in the industry, cooperation between the leading terminal operators on creating standardisation in the measurement of carbon footprints is needed, according to the firm.APM Terminals operates a global terminal network of 50 terminals, providing port management and terminal operations to over liner shipping and port customers. Tue, 2 Mar 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1076 China has announced plans to outline goals for greenhouse gas emissions and monitoring rules for regions and sectors in its next five-year plan.In addition to tax and financial incentives, governmental guidance and related laws and regulations will be issued to help reduce emissions.China has also said that renewable and clean energy should make up a greater share of the country`s energy needs and goals will also be set for forest planting and management.In November the Chinese government pledged to cut the amount of carbon dioxide emitted to make each unit of national income by 40 to 45 per cent by 2020, when compared to 2005.China`s top economic planning body the National Development and Reform Commission also revealed in a recent Standing Committee report that a series of support policies to promote the use of non-fossil, renewable energies including wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and nuclear power will be launched.These will aim to increase its proportion of primary energy consumption to about 15 per cent by 2020 from 9.9 per cent at the end of last year.However, last month China`s top climate change negotiator Su Wei said that China has no intention of capping greenhouse gas emissions for the time being. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1074 Retailer Wal-Mart is urging its suppliers to cut their greenhouse gas emissions by 20 million metric tonnes by the end of 2015.To help it measure reduction, the company is joining forces with the Environmental Defence Fund and other environmental experts.Although Wal-mart has said it will not force suppliers to cut their emissions, it will work with them on projects to help them reduce both costs and emissions.Consumer products company Procter amp; Gamble has shown its support by working with Wal-Mart on its environmental efforts and sustainability plans.The company`s emission reduction goal is the equivalent of removing 3.8 million cars from the road for a year.Efforts the organisation has made to cut its carbon emissions in the past include working with suppliers to reduce packaging.Last week chief executive officer (CEO) and president Mike Duke said Wal-Mart needs to push for greater efficiency to maintain a competitive edge as it expands globally amid higher energy costs.In July last year the New York Times reported on the company`s plans to include information about a products` carbon footprint on their tags. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1075 Reynolds High School in the US has been doing its bit for the environment by introducing gardening and educational activities to transform areas of the school into micro-ecosystems.The Green Spaces Project has seen staff, students and donors getting involved in environmental activities, the Times Colonist reported.`We want to get kids connected with using our land and our space to grow food,` teacher Heather Coey, who started the project, told the paper.Going carbon-neutral and reaching carbon emissions goals is one motivation behind the project, alongside the passion of the school`s students.Reynolds High School was the first in its school district to run the waste management pilot project, which started with replacing rubbish bins in one hallway with a bin for compostable materials and a sorting tower.Last month the Gazette Series reported on Blue Coat Primary School, in Wotton-under-Edge, UK, which has installed a wind turbine to reduce emissions and make the children more aware of sustainability. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1073 Sainsbury`s has announced a scheme that plans to help dairy farmers measure their carbon footprints and aims to reduce emissions by up to ten per cent.This is the first scheme to measure the carbon footprint of any agricultural organisation and it has been certified by the government advisory body, the Carbon Trust.Individual audits have been completed of the retailers 325 farms in its Dairy Development Group by White Gold, owned by AB Agri, which aims to ensure the highest standards in dairy production are achieved by its clients.Improvements have been recommended to Sainsbury`s, including better use of manure and fertiliser to improve crop nutrition and feed efficiencies linked to yield.It was found that, surprisingly, the farms with the highest yielding herds of cows, were not necessarily the ones that produced the lowest carbon emissions.White Gold`s audit will run over three years, with the recommendations reducing carbon emissions on the farms by an estimated ten per cent per year. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1072 Cutting VAT to five per cent would mean a `greener and more energy efficient housing stock`, research conducted by Experian has shown.The government`s current Zero Carbon Homes scheme is not enough to tackle the carbon emissions by 2016, as it would take more than 130 years to replace all existing houses with zero carbon ones.Reducing VAT would mean homeowners could afford to refurbish their houses to make them more energy efficient, said Richard Diment, director general of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).He said building zero carbon homes would have a limited effect on carbon emissions as house building in the UK is at its lowest rate since 1946.UK housing stock is responsible for 27 per cent of the total emissions in the UK, so reducing VAT to five per cent on housing repair, maintenance and improvement could generate #163;1.23 billion to be used over the next decade for energy efficiency measures.This money could be used to ensure 174,000 more homes had energy efficient boilers and were fully insulated between 2010 and 2019, leading to a reduction of up to 332,000 tonnes of CO2. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1071 A hundred nations have signed up to the Copenhagen Accord since the climate change summit in December.Each of the countries has agreed to work towards a goal of limiting a rise in world temperatures to less than two degrees C. However, a number of nations, including China, India and Russia, have yet to offer their full commitment, reports Reuters.The US has pledged to lower its CO2 emissions by 17 per cent compared to 2005 levels by 2020, while European Union nations will lower their emissions by 20 per cent, or 30 per cent if others act.Japan will lower its carbon emissions by 25 percent as part of a `fair and effective international framework` and New Zealand will aim for a reduction of between ten and 20 percent `if there is a comprehensive global agreement`.Other nations who have stated they wish to be associated with the accord include Croatia, Norway, Canada, Australia and Monaco.A number of developing nation have also pledged support including Brazil, South Africa and South Korea.According to the news provider, the United Nations has said the emissions vows are not enough to keep temperature rises below two degrees C Wed, 24 Feb 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1069 Carbon counting is as important to UK shoppers as checking food products` calories, it has been claimed.Research by the Carbon Trust highlighted that a quarter of respondents` shopping habits have been influenced by products` carbon footprints.It also revealed that 86 per cent of consumers want their favourite brands to help combat the threat of climate change by reducing their carbon footprint and almost half (43 per cent) are actively seeking information about the carbon impact of the products they buy.Euan Murray from the Carbon Trust said: `People are increasingly looking for simple ways to reduce their carbon footprint, without sacrificing on price, taste or convenience. They want to protect the environment, but are often confused about how they can make a difference.`Earlier this year, research by by Newcastle Business School of Northumbria University highlighted that 72 per cent of consumers would like to see carbon labels on the food they buy. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1070 Londoners are doing more than ever to reduce their carbon footprints, according to the Environment Agency.The body`s latest London State of the Environment report highlighted that household recycling has increased since last year`s report from 25 per cent to 29 per cent, while the average amount of water used per person has fallen.It was also noted that the amount of municipal waste sent to landfill is declining.`Although London`s carbon footprint is lower than the UK footprint, climate change is a challenge we cannot afford to ignore as six out of the top 20 hottest years on record occurred since 2000. This report shows that people need to continue to make strides to help manage and protect the capital`s vital resources,` Clive Coley, Environment Agency regional strategy manager, said.People living in London could have the option to choose greener taxis in the coming years, as Lotus and Intelligent Energy are developing new black cabs which run on hydrogen fuel cells. Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1067 Taxis in the capital could be running on hydrogen fuel cell technology in time for the 2012 London Olympics, in a bid to lower carbon emissions, it has been claimed.Trials of the vehicles, which look just like regular black cabs, are currently underway and will feature cutting-edge technology from Lotus under the bonnet.The taxis, which have been developed by Intelligence Energy, can hit speeds of 81mph, go from 0-60mph in 14 seconds and can travel 250 miles on a full tank of hydrogen.London`s deputy mayor Kit Malthouse said that there are plans to have around 20 to 50 vehicles in operation around the city as well as six hydrogen filling stations located around the capital.`With fleets you can deploy a little infrastructure, which you can build up with the more fleets you have, rather than going straight to consumers who might be wondering where the next filling station is,` Henri Winand of Intelligent Energy told the Guardian.Earlier this month, it was reported that Britain`s Eco City Vehicles is rolling out an electric version of the Mercedes-Benz Vito taxi, which will be tested on the capital`s roads later this year. Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1068 Edinburgh University students and staff have pledged to slash their carbon emissions by ten per cent this year, it has been reported.According to the education centre, it has managed to cut CO2 emissions by ten per cent in the past five years, but is hoping to accelerate the reduction in 2010, reports the Scotsman.The institution`s focus on reducing on-campus carbon emissions, which account for one fifth of the university`s total carbon footprint, has been shifted to the environmental impact of its 37,000 students and members of staff.Vice-principal Mary Bownes told the news provider: `We have invested heavily in energy efficiency projects, but we seek to engage our most valuable resource - our staff and students - with this issue, too.`Meanwhile, Edinburgh University has exceeded its 2008-09 recycling targets thanks to the contribution of its staff.Almost 1,500 tonnes of waste materials including paper, cardboard, electrical equipment and food waste were recycled or reused #150; an increase on the previous year`s figure of 1,200 tonnes. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1066 Transport minister Lord Adonis has lent his support to a proposed carbon emissions monitoring initiative put forward by the Freight Transport Association (FTA).According to the minister, the issue of emissions from UK fleets - which account for 30 per cent of total domestic transport emissions - needs addressing immediately if the Department for Transport is to meet its strict climate change targets.Rachel Dillon, the FTA`s climate change manager, said: `Together with the DfT we will develop a robust and consistent carbon measurement and reporting method that will be fair, accurate and eminently useful in the interests of mitigating the sector`s environmental impact.`If the initiative is introduced, Britain`s businesses #150; including the 23,000 registered members of the FTA #150; would be obliged to record their carbon emissions and make them available to an independent auditor.On the continent, Spanish industry minister Miguel Sebastian called for a common electric car strategy to be introduced in EU countries. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 9:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1064 British Airways is teaming up with US firm Solena to create Europe`s first green jet fuel production plant.The firms will construct the new facility in London`s East End.When it is finally producing fuel in 2014, the facility will generate 16 million gallons of carbon neutral fuel every year.The plant will process an estimated 500,000 tonnes of landfill waste per annum #150; including business and household rubbish.BA`s chief executive Willie Walsh said the new plant will help BA slash its carbon emissions by as much as 50 per cent by 2050.He said: `We believe it will lead to the production of a real sustainable alternative to jet kerosene.`London mayor Boris Johnson has backed the plan, saying: `We are working to bring together more organisations in this way to harvest the capital`s rubbish.`Yesterday (Monday, February 15th), the former chief executive officer of Shell said the oil industry needs clear, government-backed incentives if it is reduce its impact on the environment. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 9:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1065 Entrepreneur Richard Branson has launched a new carbon emissions initiative in Vancouver, Canada.The Virgin boss` Carbon War Room ramped up its fight against climate change in the city by challenging governments across the globe to rise to the challenge of cutting emissions and reducing their reliance of fossil fuels, reports the Vancouver Sun.Branson`s Carbon War Room is looking for ten cities to take part in a 30-month pilot scheme, which will see businesses and local authorities being given the financial means to improve their energy efficiency projects.According to Branson, Vancouver is `an obvious choice` for the new initiative, the paper states.`Vancouver has actually walked the talk - or [in] this city should I say cycle the talk - reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels while the population has grown 30 per cent,` Branson said.Branson claimed that investing in energy efficiency measures will actually provide returns in the future. The multi-billionaire heads up the UK Peak Oil Task Force, which warns there could be a global oil crunch as early as 2015. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 9:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1062 The EU has claimed that the best option for reducing the carbon emissions of the region`s shipping market would be to use a cap and trade scheme.According to a new report from the European Commission, entitled Technical Support for European Action to Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from International Maritime Transport, even under the best possible scenarios carbon emissions would increase in the sector as a result of growth in the sea trade, reports Carbon Positive.`Even if efficiency gains were to be higher than expected, and all the cost-effective abatement options identified in this report implemented, emissions would still probably continue to increase,` the report said.Five solutions to the problem were put forward in the report; a cap and trade scheme, a baseline and credit scheme, a carbon tax/bunker fuel levy, mandatory efficiency standards and voluntary action, the news provider states.The first option was favoured by the report`s authors.Just this week, UK transport minister Lord Adonis called for a new carbon emissions monitoring scheme to be put in place for the country`s fleet sector. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 9:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1063 A number of churches in Devon are attempting to slash their carbon footprints this Easter, it has been reported.During Lent, a new initiative in the Diocese of Exeter will see churches switch off lights and turn down the heating, reports the BBC.According to the news provider, the churches in the region are encouraging parishioners to set up car-sharing schemes so they can reduce the environmental impact of their travel to and from places of worship.Martyn Goss, who works on the environmental impact of churches in the diocese, told the BBC that they were planning on slashing carbon emissions by 42 per cent in the coming decade.He added: `We have some quite strong targets to aim towards.`Last week, North Lincolnshire Council announced that it was investing #163;1 million in cutting its greenhouse gas emissions and expects to reduce them by a third, This is Scunthorpe reported. Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1060 Major oil companies need the right environmental incentives to ensure they tackle major climate change issues like the reduction of carbon emissions and the development of renewable energy technologies, it has been claimed.Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, former BP chief executive Lord Browne said: `I have always believed the oil majors #150; like all companies #150; should be doing more. But companies need to have the right carrots and sticks in place from governments.`When questioned about whether he thought BP was guilty of scaling back its environmental commitments, Lord Browne said: `I don`t think that BP has rowed back from tackling climate change and I very much hope that it does not move away from my position.`Last year, BP closed its alternative energy office in London, cut spending on renewable energy by #163;500 million and withdrew from the UK onshore wind sector #150; although it is continuing to invest in wind energy in the US.A recent report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory showed that wind power could be used to generate 20 per cent of the eastern US` electricity. Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1061 An eco-friendly fire station has been opened in London by mayor of London Boris Johnson.The station, in Harold Hill in Romford, features an innovative water collection system, Mayor Watch reported.Other environmentally-friendly elements of the station include solar panels and energy saving boilers that will allow it to produce 43 per cent less carbon emissions than a normal fire station.Mr Johnson said that he was excited to be opening the first new fire station to be built in London in the last decade.`Slashing energy consumption in our public buildings is a sure-fire way to not only reduce the capital`s carbon emissions but also cut fuel bills helping us to save hundreds of thousands of pounds every year,` he added.Chair of the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority Brian Coleman was also present at the opening of the station, which recently became operational.Elsewhere another environmentally-friendly fire station has recently opened in Naperville in the US.A $30,000 (#163;19,200) Energy Efficiency Block Grant was awarded by the Illinois Clean Energy Foundation to install LED lights and a further $37,059 grant was given to fund a geothermal heating and cooling system. Sat, 13 Feb 2010 12:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1058 The National Trust has announced plans to reduce its use of fossil fuels by half over the next decade.By cutting back on its use of fossil fuels the trust hopes to cut the carbon emissions from energy used for electricity and heat by 45 per cent.The private landowner is hoping that the move will help it achieve its goal of reducing its energy consumption by 2020.Fiona Reynolds, director general of the National Trust, said: `The trust has a responsibility to look after the special places in our care for ever, requiring us to make long term decisions that will protect them for future generations to enjoy.`The reduction in carbon emissions is greater than the government`s target of a reduction of 34 per cent in emissions by 2020.It is hoped that the reduction will help slash the amount spent on fuel from the current #163;6 million that is spent in the UK every year to heat and power buildings.The National Trust is a charity that is independent of the government, which relies on membership fees, donations and legacies, and revenue raised from its commercial operations. Sat, 13 Feb 2010 12:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1059 Director publishers Sensis has announced that Australia`s White and Yellow Pages print and online directories have been certified carbon neutral through the Australian government`s Greenhouse Friendly programme.This will be achieved by the company offsetting its directories` carbon emissions through Greenhouse Friendly accredited providers and projects in Australia.It makes up part of the firm`s commitment to climate change announcement and allows Sensis to identify the aspects of the business that have the greatest environmental impacts and work out how to reduce them in the long term.From this month Sensis will offset emissions generated through the complete lifecycle of its directories, such as their production, use, disposal and distribution.`With this announcement, the millions of Australians who use our directories each week can be assured Sensis is committed to playing our part in combating climate change and working to reduce our carbon emissions,` Sensis chief executive officer Bruce Akhurst said.The company has been committed to becoming environmentally friendly for some years. In 1991 it introduced a directory recycling programme, which has seen the number of directories recycled increase from four per cent in 1999 to the 96 per cent that are currently being recycled. Sat, 13 Feb 2010 12:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1057 A new computer system has been developed that will allow commercial fishers in Queensland in Australia to measure their carbon emissions.The new programme was produced in coordination with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, ABC News reported.A range of different factors are calculated by the system, which also suggests how to reduce the fisher`s carbon footprint.`It`s looking at all elements of your operation, from fuel use through to energy generation on the vessel, to how you process and how you pack your products,` president of the Queensland Seafood Industry Association Michael Gardiner told the news site.According to the United Nation Food and Agriculture Organization, the world`s fishing fleets account for between 0.2 and 0.6 per cent of global carbon emissions.Currently there are affordable hydrogen generators that can increase fuel efficiency by 20 per cent, until viable alternative energy sources are perfected, Juneau Empire reported. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1056 In an effort to cut its greenhouse gas emissions, North Lincolnshire Council is investing #163;1 million.The plan is expected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by a third, This is Scunthorpe reported.Millions of pounds are also expected to be saved by schools, vehicles and buildings such as leisure centres through the scheme.All council buildings will also be fitted with electricity metres and drivers will attend eco-driving courses.Funding will also be made available for energy saving schemes councillor Bernard Regan revealed.`As an authority we`re not just responsible for our own energy consumption, we`re responsible for the energy consumption of every person in North Lincolnshire,` he told the paper.According to the councilor, it is monitoring that is causing an issue and this can be resolved by changing the attitude of the council.Half of the investment will be provided by the council and half will be borrowed from loan company Salix, which provides loans exclusively for energy saving projects.This week Birmingham City Council also showed it is committed to cutting carbon emissions when it signed up to the 10:10 campaign, which aims to cut emissions by ten per cent this year. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1055 The production of five staple crops in Sub-Saharan Africa will be reduced by climate change, according to US research.Maize, sorgum, millet, groundnut and cassava will all be reduced by between eight and 22 per cent, environmentalresearchweb reported.There is also a five per cent chance that yields could fall by over 27 per cent, according to researchers at Stanford University and Columbia University.David Lobell of Stanford University told the site: `The results are not as disastrous as some have claimed, but they are definitely big enough to suggest that major adaptations are needed in this region.`The research also discovered that most of the countries that produce the most crops are projected to have the greatest losses due to climate change.As a result the conclusion was drawn that well-fertilised modern seeds are more susceptible to heat-related losses.Without adaptation such as improved and expanded irrigation systems and rainwater technologies, a negative impact will be felt in Sub-Saharan Africa.Researchers at Kenya`s Coffee Research Foundation also revealed that climate change is affecting Kenyan coffee production due to the unpredictable rainfall patterns and excessive droughts, Daily Nation reported. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1054 Spain is pushing for a common strategy for electric cars following a meeting held between European Union (EU) ministers.The informal discussion in San Sebastian resulted in Spain`s industry minister Miguel Sebastian later commenting that the electric car `has been born today in Europe`, EU Observer reported.He added: `Obviously there are lots of questions ...issues of legal security, validation, the safety of the vehicles themselves ...and cost.`Spain is calling for the EU commission to create a common strategy in May, as national plans differ throughout Europe due to countries using different technologies that are not always compatible.The Spanish minister also wants electric cars to be a part of the economic strategy over the next ten years, to help boost the auto sector, reduce unemployment and also cut carbon emissions.This Mercedes-Benz revealed that its Smart Fortwo cdi car now emits only 86g/km as engineers have shaved 2g/km of CO2 off its emissions figure. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1052 Red meat production in Australia has been found to be more carbon-efficient than was first believed.A study carried out by the University of New South Wales has found that carbon emissions from sheep and cattle production in Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia are among the lowest in the world.The three-year Life Cycle Assessment Study found that sheepmeat produced 7-8kg of carbon emissions equivalent per kg of meat. For beef, values ranged from 8-11kg.Eating red meat three times a week causes 164kg to 158kg of carbon emissions a year, according to the report. This is far less than previous claims of 1.5 tonnes of carbon emissions being produced from red meat.`Most Australian cattle and sheep are raised in a natural environment feeding on pastures with little or no use of fertilisers and it is unfortunate that until now inaccurate and exaggerated figures have been used,` Meat and Livestock Australia managing director, David Palmer, said.Meat and Livestock Australia is a producer-owned company that provides research and development and marketing services to the red meat industry. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1053 Redditch Council has committed to reduce its carbon emissions by joining a national campaign.The council has said that it will cut its carbon dioxide emissions by up to ten per cent, Redditch Advertiser reported.Now it has signed up to the 10:10 campaign, the authority will encourage individuals, businesses and organisations to do their bit to tackle climate change.`Being part of this campaign will not only help save carbon dioxide, which is good for everyone, it will also save money for the council as we aim to bring down our energy and fuel bills,` Ceridwen John, climate change manager, told the paper.Councillor Carole Gandy also revealed that there are a number of initiatives residents can contact the council about to help cut their carbon footprint including and grants for installing renewable technology such as solar panels.Currently 56,000 individuals, 2,000 businesses, 1,000 schools and nearly 1,500 organisations have signed up to the 10:10 project to try and cut carbon emissions. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1051 China`s northern port of Tianjin has launched a small-scale energy intensity trading scheme today (Tuesday, February 9th).Opened with three pilot sales, the scheme is believed to be the first step towards a national carbon emission cap trading scheme, reports Reuters.Citigroup Global Markets and Gazprom Marketing and Trading were the first companies to pick up emissions allowances in the region.The Carbon Emission Allowances were for the equivalent of CO2 emissions created from the burning of 4,500 tonnes of coal and, after validation, the deal will be worth more than 500,000 yuan (#163;47,000).Speaking to the news provider, Arreon, which has helped create the Chinese emissions cap scheme, said: `The traded unit is carbon emission credits, but it comes from the energy intensity target.`Earlier this month, Canada informed the United Nations that by 2020 it hopes to have cut its carbon emissions by 17 per cent when compared with figures from 2005. Tue, 9 Feb 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1050 The world`s fourth largest steelmaker POSCO has announced that it will reduce its carbon footprint by cutting emissions from producing crude steel.A carbon emissions reduction target of nine per cent by 2020 based on the last three years levels has been set by the South Korean company.At South Korea`s 7th Green Growth Committee meeting chairman Joon-yang Chung announced that POSCO will cut emissions in manufacturing each metric tonnes of melted iron from the current 2.18 mt to 1.98 mt by 2020.In December last year the company said that it will invest seven trillion won (#163;3.89 billion) in alternative energy by 2018.The sectors it would invest in include synthetic natural gas, wind power generation, fuel cells and smart grid technology.Mr Chung said: `The most important thing for (stopping) climate change is to act swiftly and voluntarily. POSCO will continue to work hard to cut emissions and take the lead in green businesses.` Tue, 9 Feb 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1048 Over the next six years zero-carbon schools are going to be built across the UK, schools secretary Ed Balls has revealed.At least four pilot zero-carbon schools are planned to be in operation in each government region before 2016.The aims of the new schools are to help cut the carbon footprints of schools and also their energy bills.It has been announced that the country`s ecotowns will be among the first areas to showcase zero-carbon schools.Around five per cent of the #163;60 million funding announced for the first wave of ecotowns is being provided by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.`With schools contributing around two per cent towards the UK`s carbon footprint, we have a moral responsibility to reduce this and so last week we announced our plans to help schools be greener,` schools minister Vernon Coaker said.The chair of the Zero Carbon Task Force Robin Nicholson has also highlighted the importance of schools in helping to meet wider carbon targets, with schools in England being responsible for the same amount of emissions as Manchester and Birmingham combined, eGov monitor reported. Tue, 9 Feb 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1049 A high-level green adviser is to be recruited by the Conservative government in Canada, to keep Ottawa in line with the US`s climate plans.Environment minister Jim Prentice hopes that the adviser will develop the climate change policy in Canada and keep up to date with emerging climate change initiatives by the private sector, The Star reported.The policy adviser will also be expected to find niche areas of opportunity for Canada in the US and tap into personal and business contacts south of the border.Later this month the successful applicant will be announced. They will then help to make sure the views on how to cut emissions that Canada holds are heard by other countries.`The objective of this project is to gain ongoing, in-depth, analytical insight into developments related to United States climate change and air pollution policy,` the job description says.Last week, yet another example of the effects of climate change was reported. Conservation scientists announced that climate change is resulting in decreasing numbers of Canadian wolverines. The news comes as a surprise as the animal is known for its strength and tenacious character. Mon, 8 Feb 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1047 Officials in Aurora are preparing to approve final revisions to a document that details the city`s plans for the next five years.On the agenda are achieving financial stability and reducing its carbon footprint, Aurora Sentinel reported.Every ten years city officials and residents re-evaluate the goals and priorities of the city so they reflect the current social and economic environment.The most recent plan is slated for adoption by the end of the month, although it does not include any major expansion objectives.In 2007 a study carried out by the University of Colorado-Denver measured the city`s greenhouse gases.It discovered that the four biggest emissions sectors were commercial, residential, vehicle fuel and emissions associated with the production of food.Following the study, city officials set a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by ten per cent by 2025.`We think that`s achievable. It`s a reasonable goal,` John Fernandez, manager of comprehensive planning in the city`s planning department said.Elsewhere, a scientific network that was recently set up by India`s environment ministry has also been doing its bit to tackle climate change.The country`s prime minister has announced that it will contribute formally to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Guardian reported. Mon, 8 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1045 A new study has linked the 30-year drought in Western Australia with Antarctica`s heavy snowfall.Principal research scientist Tas van Ommen said that it is proof that man-made greenhouse gases have triggered dramatic climate change, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.A direct link has been found between snowfall in eastern Antarctica and rainfall in the southwest of Australia by the Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre in Tasmania.The centre discovered that heavier snowfall in Antarctica causes less rain to fall in Australia.A study of 750-year-old ice-core samples allowed the conclusions to be drawn by Mr van Ommen.`Large scale atmospheric circulation in recent decades seems to have stepped up in a way that brings extra warm, moist air to Antarctica - with extra snowfall - and at the same time the recirculation of cold, dry air up towards Western Australia,` he explained.Mr van Ommen also highlighted that this has led to reduced rainfall and made a significant contribution to the drought in south western Australia.Earlier this month, AlterNet reported that Australia had been suffering its worst heat wave n record, with the temperature exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit for three days running for the first time. Mon, 8 Feb 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1046 The Abu Dhabi Yacht Show (ADYS) has made a commitment to reduce the carbon footprint of this year`s event, which takes place at the end of this month.Its initiative complies with the United Arab Emirates` Ecological Footprint Programme, which helps to develop policies to reduce the country`s carbon footprint, AlBawaba reported.A greenhouse gas test will be carried out at the show by emissions reductions company EcoVentures.As well as measuring the event`s carbon footprint, the test will also act as a benchmark for future shows.The Abu Dhabi Yacht Show has an aim is to reduce its carbon emissions by 100 per cent by 2012.Group director of Informa Yacht Group (IYG) Franck Dailles said: `Our commitment to reduce the carbon footprint of this year`s edition is a contribution to the efforts of the Abu Dhabi Government to help create a more sustainable future for the emirate.`IYG, which is the organiser of ADYS, is the business division that encompasses all of the yachting and boating events owned by Informa. Sat, 6 Feb 2010 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1044 The government has announced the 12 UK communities that have won up to #163;500,000 to install green technologies including solar panels and hydro turbines.Awarded by the government`s Low Carbon Community Challenge, the grants will be used to cut carbon emissions while also saving money on energy bills.`The huge enthusiasm for the Low Carbon Communities Challenge demonstrates that local people are passionate about building a low carbon future in the UK,` Joan Ruddock, energy and climate change minister said.She said that the winners will act as a `test bed for green action` and that in order to meet the target of becoming almost zero carbon by 2050, creative initiative of local communities is essential.The 12 winning communities included those from Hook Norton, Ashton Hayes, Easterside and Halton.Another winning community from Whitehill-Bordon in East Hampshire hopes to build on its green status by making the money available to people in the area in the form of loans. These can be used by residents to install energy efficiency measures and renewable technologies.The Low Carbon Communities Challenge is a two-year research programme designed to test delivery options for achieving carbon emission cuts at community level. Sat, 6 Feb 2010 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1043 Technology will play an important role in cutting carbon emissions, according to a report from Cisco and Greenbang.Although companies in the UK recognise that investing in technology for carbon monitoring and measuring will be crucial to reducing the country`s carbon footprint, few showed willingness to pay to do so.Cost savings were mentioned by 60 per cent of participants as the most important factor in encouraging firms to invest in energy monitoring. Legislation was only cited as important by 24 per cent of respondents.Less than half of the companies taking part in the survey that said they believe smart technologies will help with carbon reductions have actually deployed them in their firms.`There is still a lack of strong leadership and education around carbon once the message filters down to mid-management and the general public,` Greenbang founder Dan Ilet said.Under a new legislation due to come into force in April, all companies that spend over #163;500,000 a year will need to monitor and report emissions.Greenbang tracks development affecting global business leaders who are working towards a low-carbon future. Sat, 6 Feb 2010 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1042 The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has published proposals for a pioneering renewable heat incentive (RHI) scheme.Through the scheme, which is due to begin in April next year, people that generate heat themselves will be paid.It is hoped that it will increase the use of woodfuel, biogas, solar thermal and heat pumps to heat offices and homes.A reward of #163;1,000 a year would be given to a semi-detached house that has installed a ground source heat pump. In addition the household would make a saving of #163;200 a year if it was used instead of heating oil.As well as cutting carbon emissions, the DECC believes that those involved will see lower their bills as well as receiving the cash reward.Renewable heat could contribute 12 per cent towards the UK`s European Union renewable energy target, according to the DECC.A consultation has been launched which seeks views on the proposed scheme, with a deadline for submitting responses set as April 26th. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1040 Shops selling batteries will now be required to provide in-store recycling bins due to the introduction of new European Union (EU) laws.Any store that sells more than 32kg of batteries a year will have to accept old batteries for recycling, in attempts to cut carbon emissions by lowering the need to produce new batteries.Only three per cent of portable batteries are recycled in the UK at present and the EU Batteries Directive hopes that by 2016 this will be increased to 45 per cent.The new laws also hope to reduce the amount of toxic chemicals that leak into the soil from batteries that are thrown away and end up in landfill sites.`This new legislation will make it easier for consumers to do the right thing whilst ensuring retailers fulfil their part of the bargain,` environment secretary Hilary Benn said.Earlier this year, Exeter mayor John Winterbottom launched a new recycling scheme in the city providing low energy light bulb and portable battery recycling facilities to stores, This is the West Country reported. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1041 Chester Zoo is doing its bit to help combat climate change by holding a special conference.The event, which is to be hosted by the zoo`s director general Gordon McGregor Reid and Bristol zoo director Jo Gipps, will also include a panel of experts, Chester Chronicle reported.Sponsored by Chester-based solicitors Hill Dickinson, the free event will be held in the zoo`s lecture hall on March 18th.`The meeting will have a call to action for attendees but zoos also have to take responsibility; globally they have an annual audience of 600 million people and are in an ideal position to explain that extinction is forever,` Chester Zoo`s head of discovery and learning Stephen McKeown said.He also spoke of the urgency that surrounds climate change and that awareness needs to be raised at local, regional and national levels.Last month Chester Zoo announced a #163;225 million Natural Vision plan to help to boost Cheshire`s economy, the Ellesmere Port Pioneer reported. The project is anticipated to create 650 jobs and draw 2.2 million visitors to the area. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1038 India has committed to reduce its carbon emissions by between 20 and 25 per cent in 2020, when compared to 2005`s levels.The country`s environment and forests ministry revealed that the efforts will not include the agricultural sector.Specific measures for the reduction have not yet been revealed but it is known that the commitment is voluntary and not legally binding.The commitment makes up part of an earlier agreement decided in at the Copenhagen climate change summit that set developing countries a deadline of the end of January to announce their non-binding, voluntary carbon reduction actions.To help slow the increase of emissions, the country will adopt cleaner technologies. It will join other nations such as China, which have also promised to slash their carbon emissions.According to a research paper published by GlobalData, India is the fourth largest greenhouse gas emitter in the world because the majority of its electricity is produced from conventional sources such as coal. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1039 Birmingham City Council, the UK`s largest council, has come on board the national 10:10 campaign that aims to cut carbon emissions by ten per cent this year.So far the campaign has received support from 125 councils in the UK that serve a total of 21.4 million people.`Birmingham is a genuine heavyweight when it comes to the sustainability agenda, meaning we fully support 10:10, which aims to make a rapid short-term cut in carbon emissions,` deputy leader of Birmingham City Council Paul Tilsley said.He also revealed that Birmingham has a longer term goal to cut its carbon emission by 60 per cent by 2026, when compared to 1990 levels.So far 2,103 businesses and 1,105 schools, universities and colleges have signed up. Sony UK, Royal Mail UK and T-Mobile are among the organisations that have joined the campaign along with councils.Blackburn Council has also recently announced that it will be signing up to the campaign after already investing in energy efficient measures such as combined heat and power boilers. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1036 A new project that hopes to reduce carbon emissions, along with families` energy bills, has been launched in the Cook Islands.The project, from the Cook Islands National Energy Committee, was launched by the deputy prime minister, Radio New Zealand International reported.It aims to encourage households to produce energy using wind power and solar panels.James Beer, chairman of the Energy Committee, explained that if homeowners create more energy than they need the extra will be place on the main power grid. Cash will then be given to the homeowners as a reward.`At the moment we`re paying about 72 cents, which is about five to six hundred per cent more than most countries in our region,` he said.This week the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) also published proposals for a pioneering renewable heat incentive (RHI) scheme.People that generate heat themselves will be paid through the scheme, which is due to start in April 2011. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1037 Singapore Airline has completed the first multi-sector demonstration green flight, which saved over ten tonnes of fuel.The green flight, which was operated by the Asia and Pacific Initiative to Reduce Emissions (ASPIRE) programme, also reduced carbon emissions by over 33 tonnes.One of the measures that were carried out to make the flight from Los Angeles to Singapore via Tokyo green was that recycled water was used for the engine wash.Before the aircraft took off, a ground electrical supply was also used to power it and after it had taken off, the plane was allowed an unrestricted climb to enable it to reach its peak altitude as soon as possible.The airline claims that the Boeing 747-400 service was one of the most environmentally-efficient flights over the North Pacific.`The route an aircraft takes, the altitude at which it flies and the weather it encounters all affect the amount of fuel it burns and the carbon dioxide emitted,` Singapore Airlines` senior vice-president Gerard Yeap said.Making aviation more environmentally friendly was explored at an exhibition at Singapore Changi Airport, which was launched by Changi Airport Group (CAG) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).New technologies such as algae-based biofuels, solar power and fuel cells that could help in the development of a carbon emission-free plane in the next 50 years, also featured at the event. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1034 Greenhouse gas emissions decreased by almost two per cent in 2008 in the UK, according to official figures from the government.The drop in greenhouse emissions is also far greater than the targets set under the Kyoto Protocol, an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.Emissions of the six greenhouse gases covered by Kyoto fell 1.9 per cent in 2008, the final figures from the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) showed.Climate change minister Joan Ruddock believes that the greenhouse gas emissions statistics are encouraging.`We are now clearly exceeding our Kyoto target of 12.5 per cent below 1990 levels. UK emissions are now 19.4 per cent below 1990 levels without emissions trading or 22 per cent including emissions trading,` she said.Ms Ruddock also commented that the year-on-year reductions in the UK `set an example in the world community`.Carbon dioxide is the main greenhouse gas and accounted for around 85 per cent of all UK emissions in 2008. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1035 Tesco has opened the doors to its first zero carbon supermarket as part of its larger plan to become carbon neutral by 2050.The store, which is located in Cambridgeshire in the UK, has a timber frame instead of steel.To reduce lighting bills it features skylights and sun pipes and its heat and power is generated by a power plant that uses renewable bio-fuels.Doors on the store`s refrigerators are also environmentally friendly as they save energy and do not feature harmful HFC refrigerant gases.`It shows that you can dramatically alter how much carbon you use and life can go on,` Tesco chief executive Terry Leahy said.The supermarket also revealed that it plans to spend more than #163;100 million over the coming year with green technology companies.A planning application for a supermarket in Whittlesey town centre has been submitted by the organisation, the Cambs Times reported. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1033 A new website has been launched that focuses on helping skiers and snowboarders reduce carbon emissions produced by travelling to ski slopes.The Save Our Snow (SOS) site provides information on how to find local ski bus services, arrange ride sharing and reduce carbon emissions through changing winter driving habits, Ski Rebel reported.Organic energy and nutrition foods and drinks maker Clif Bar is behind the SOS site, which also features a free iPhone application that informs skiers of the different ways ski resorts in North America are trying to fight climate change.Ricardo Balazs, sports marketing experience manager for Clif Bar, points out that global warming is the most severe threat for winter sports.`We want to help skiers and riders rethink how they reach the summit. We all can drive less, have more fun and help save the planet,` he told the site.According to the National Ski Areas Association, winter sports lovers make over 57 million visits to US ski resorts each season, with the environmental impact of travelling to the slopes being greater than the impact made in the resort.Yesterday another project aiming to reduce carbon emissions was initiated. The Earth Hour project, which has already seen more than 250 cities sign up to turn off their lights for an hour on March 27th was officially launched at an event which involved a one hour mini switch off taking place. Mon, 1 Feb 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1031 Canada has informed the United Nations that by 2020 it is aiming to cut its carbon emissions by 17 per cent compared to 2005 levels as part of the Copenhagen Accord on climate change.Nations had been asked to report by the end of January whether they would associate themselves with the accord and join the efforts to draft a successor to the Kyoto Protocol, an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.The target, which was announced by environment minister Jim Prentice, aligns Canada with the United States, which announced its objective two days earlier.Mr Prentice told a press conference: `This is in keeping with our commitment, as I indicated in the days leading up to Copenhagen and afterwards, to align our policies with those of our continental partner.`He also revealed that Canada wants a binding international treaty that builds upon the agreement reached in Copenhagen.Lanka Business Online has also recently reported that the Maldives has voluntarily pledged to slash carbon emissions by 100 per cent by 2020, the deepest reduction promised by any country yet under an international accord. Mon, 1 Feb 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1032 A new enzyme product is to be launched in the first quarter of this year that will allow a transport fuel to be produced from agricultural waste.Steen Riisgaard, chief executive of Danish biotech company Novozymes, said that the enzyme Cellic has already been trialed on a limited basis by US ethanol producer POET, Reuters reported.`It`s going to be ready in commercial quantities. You have to be able to do it at a big scale. We are building a facility at a new factory in Nebraska just for this purpose,` he told the site.The alternative transport fuels that could be produced thanks to the enzyme would reduce dependence on imported oil and would help to cut carbon emissions linked to burning fossils fuels.Mr Riisgaard revealed that he believes there will be a strong demand for the product in China as senior executives at oil firm said they would receive credit for increasing energy efficiency and making use of low-carbon fuels.Last month the company revealed that it had achieved a stronger-than-expected rise in fourth-quarter net profit and expects sales and earnings to increase this year. Mon, 1 Feb 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1030 The government in Bangkok is looking to introduce measures to cope with the anticipated impacts of climate change, according to the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB).Speaking at a seminar held by the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Office, state planning agency officials revealed that the temperature is forecast to increase by 1.9 degrees Celsius in 2020 compared to today, the Bangkok Post reported.Senior adviser in policy and planning at the NESDB Thanin Pa-Em believes that in order to avoid becoming reliant on coal and gas, diversification of power production is needed.Also making up part of the global warming action plan to reduce Bangkok`s emissions by 15 per cent per year by 2012 are attempts to relieve traffic congestion and reduce air pollution.Jatin Kapoor who is in charge of operations in Southeast Asia at Indian consultancy Emergent Ventures International, believes that energy costs will continue to decrease as technology improves. For example, electricity costs from solar power have fallen up to six per cent annually for the past 15 years.Last month, the Bangkok Post reported that major Asian economies such as China, South Korea and Japan have been embracing carbon credit trading, with Korea taking the leading role in terms of low-carbon growth. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1028 New plans unveiled by the government will see four completely zero-carbon schools built by 2016, along with other measures to monitor their energy and carbon performance.Schools secretary Ed Balls revealed that the government is promising to cut emissions from new schools by 80 per cent by 2013 when compared to 2002 building standards.`With the schools estate emitting around 9.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide #150; about two per cent of total UK greenhouse gases #150; for the first time ever we have looked at the ambition of making schools zero carbon,` he said.The UK`s schools estate contributes around 15 per cent of public sector carbon emissions, Mr Balls highlighted.A #163;12 million investment programme will also take place to promote the installation of free smart meters in schools that display their energy use in real time. The energy meter initiative will be managed by schools delivery agency Partnerships for Schools.This month, a survey from the Carbon Trust discovered that energy savings could be made by businesses in the UK. It found that small and medium-sized companies could reduce their energy costs by up to 30 per cent a year but they are unaware of the potential for savings, Reuters reported. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1029 In an attempt to try to reduce carbon emissions, in April Seoul will begin testing a carbon emission trading system.The private sector will be encouraged to voluntarily join the efforts along with the government running the system for 54 public companies, the Korea Herald reported.As part of the scheme, the government will set a standard emission volume for each participating firm.These companies will then be offered carbon emission rights for free, enabling them to emit 90 per cent of their standard volume and therefore seek an emission reduction of ten per cent.An annual carbon emission reduction of 38,000 tonnes is anticipated if all of the 54 organisations meet the reduction target.This month it was also reported that in an attempt to reduce fossil fuel imports, South Korea`s rural development corporation will build 83 eco-friendly power plants.Korea Rural Community Corporation said that the plan includes the construction of 57 small hydroelectric power station, 20 win power and six solar energy plants by 2016. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1026 The trial run of India`s first monorail car that will make up part of the Mumbai project has been successful.Scomi Engineering, the Malaysia-based company behind the car, will now work on a sustainable transit system that is expected to be used by 300,000 commuters a day.It is anticipated that the monorail will cut back on 200 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every day.The structure will also be quieter than alternative modes of transport, not obstruct sunlight and not trap excessive emissions.`This test run in Mumbai reiterates the commitment towards meeting key milestones as per the requirements of our client. Additionally, it also highlights the expertise and reliability of Scomi in providing a high class urban transit system,` president of Scomi India, Suhaimi Yaacob told Bernama.Scomi, which is mainly known as a global service provider in the oil and gas industry, is looking for partners to tap the monorail industry in India, Business Standard reported. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1027 A selection of workshops taking place at St Joseph and St Theresa Catholic Primary School will see students involved in activities such as measuring carbon footprints and participating in a solar scrapheap challenge.The workshops will make up part of a larger campaign to help fight climate change, the Lichfield Blog reported.Scientists from Keele University and climate experts at Staffordshire County Council have organised the range of activities.Mike Maryon, Staffordshire County councillor and Cabinet member for Highways and Environment, believes that the workshops provide a way to educate young people about climate change.`Young people are one of the key groups we want to work with to tackle climate change. They hold the key to the future and giving them information now will help them to shape the world to be more sustainable,` he told the blog.Support will also be given to teachers regarding the ways that climate change and sustainability can be incorporated into their lessons.Elsewhere in the UK, pupils from Tickenham Primary School have been doing their bit for the environment by meeting with minister for culture and tourism Margaret Hodge to discuss the climate change barometer project they have been working on. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1025 Kevin Rudd, Australia`s prime minister, is to reintroduce his cap-and-trade plan to parliament next week.His Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS), which includes an emissions trading scheme was rejected when it went before parliament in August last year.`This is the most efficient way of us addressing climate change in this country. We will put it in the House of Representatives and we will debate and we will vote on it,` deputy prime minister Julia Gillard said in an interview on ABC Radio.In order to cut its greenhouse gases by five per cent in the next decade, Australia is proposing to introduce carbon trading by next year.If it is not rejected in its third attempt Mr Rudd`s bill would see the country begin trading carbon permits by mid-way through next year, starting in the first year with a flat price of $10 (#163;5.6) a tonne.If world leaders are unable to agree to dramatically cut greenhouse gas emissions, the number of extreme bushfires in Australia will increase by 300 per cent by 2050, according to a report commissioned by Australia`s fire fighters. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1024 The repairing of the Antarctic ozone hole could be increasing the temperature in the southern hemisphere, according to British scientists.Research carried out at the University of Leeds has explored the effects that the healing of the ozone hole could have on global temperatures.It was discovered that moist, brighter-than-usual clouds were formed by the hole, which shielded the Antarctic region from warming produced by greenhouse gas emissions over last 20 years.Ken Carslaw, a professor at the university, said: `The recovery of the hole will reverse that. Essentially, it will accelerate warming in certain parts of the Southern Hemisphere.`The main factors causing the hole included the use of chlorofluorocarbons that are found in refrigerants and aerosol cans.Meteorological data, including global wind speeds, that was recorded between 1980 and 2000 was used in the study.The Antarctic ozone hole is an area of the Antarctic stratosphere that appears when strong westerly winds start to circulate around the continent during the Antarctic spring, from September to early December. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1023 Students from Tickenham Primary School have met with Margaret Hodge, the minister for culture and tourism, to discuss climate change.The students spoke about the climate change barometer project they have been working on at Goblin Coombe Environment Centre.Through the project, the effects of climate change on the natural history of the woodland has been studied whilst giving local schoolchildren a better grasp of the woodland eco system.Kingshill, Golden Valley, Grove Junior and Wraxall Primary School were among the other schools involved in the Find Your Talent project.This week the BBC reported about another group of students who were doing their bit to fight climate change.Six pupils from Wales were chosen to raise awareness of climate change in the country as part of a competition launched by the Welsh Assembly government.They will spend a year working on their projects and participating in the government`s climate change commission where they will meet politicians and environmental experts. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1021 The British public need to be made more aware of how they can help to fight climate change, according to celebrity gardener and TV presenter Alan Titchmarsh.Mr Titchmarsh has encouraged environmental experts to inform Brits about the subject of climate change and the ways in which they can cut their environmental impact.Talking to the Express he said: `We all know what we shouldn`t do - drive unnecessarily, waste energy. Now we want to know the positive things we can do like planting things and improving the environment.`The television presenter has also spoken out about how people have become frightened of gardening after generations of sitting in offices.Although he recognises that Britain has a strong tradition of gardening he believes that Brits have lost the skills of gardening.Mr Titchmarsh is fronting a new campaign with Bamp;Q to encourage people to spend more time in their gardens. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1022 Bankers, politicians and the business elite who are attending this week`s World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos have been told that limousines and sports utility vehicles will not be allowed access to special security areas.Organisers of the conference have revealed that the green credentials of vehicles will be checked on arriving at the forum.Cars that give off more than 230 grams per kilometre of carbon dioxide or consume over nine litres of fuel per 100 kilometres will not receive a green sticker allowing them to certain areas of the event.`A lot of people have downsized their cars already. Last year we had a lot of SUVs turn up, but this year we#146;ve already seen a lot of hybrid cars, vehicles with smaller engines and people sharing minibuses,` a spokesperson for the forum told the Times.Those attending this year`s forum include HSBC chairman Stephen Green, Deutsche Bank chief executive Josef Akerman and Citigroup`s Vikram Pandit.The WEF is an independent organisation that aims to engage leaders in partnerships to shape global, regional and industry agendas that will improve the economy. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1020 The Sustainable Development Commission, the government`s independent adviser on sustainable development, has proposed that average speed cameras should be fitted on all UK motorways.Carbon emissions would be cut from the speed cameras` installation that would ensure that motorists stick to the 70 mph limit, the commission`s report claimed.Instead of measuring a car`s speed at a fixed point, average speed cameras measure it over a prolonged distance.If the proposal was to go ahead, it would result in a reduction of 1.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, according to the commission.Department for Transport figures have shown that 52 per cent of motorists are ignoring the 70 mph speed limit.In the report, it called for a `clear timetable` for the introduction of Intelligent Speed Adaptation technology, which takes away control of the vehicle`s speed from the driver.This month a report from the Sustainable Development Commission says innovations in information communications technology such as videoconferencing and increased connectivity on public transport could have an important impact on improving fuel consumption and safety. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1018 According to Nike`s corporate social responsibility report, the footwear manufacturer reduced the emissions of its supply chain by four per cent in 2009 compared to the previous year.Despite not setting itself any carbon reduction targets yet, the company`s total greenhouse gas footprint was 1.53 million tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2009, compared to 1.6 million in 2008.`Our preference is to achieve climate neutrality through a combination of energy efficiency and the purchase of more direct forms of renewable energy, through onsite applications and other means,` the report said.Mark Parker, president and chief executive officer at Nike, said that making the business more sustainable benefits its customers `who expect products and experiences with low environmental impact`.The firm has introduced a programme to monitor the carbon footprint of its factories and allow improvements to be made.End user education and automated shutdown software has enabled the company`s IT carbon footprint to be reduced and video conferencing and teleconferencing has helped to cut back on business travel.In 2007 Nike was recognized for its leadership in climate change solutions by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). It was one of 12 major corporations in the WWF`s Climate Savers Programme that were on course to eliminate at least ten million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually by 2010. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1019 Buildings throughout the UK could be demolished in a bid to meet new carbon emission standards.Developments dating back to the 1960s and 70s are among those which may be torn down to make way for greener buildings.Speaking to the Times, Paul Morrell, the government`s chief construction adviser, said: `In the 60s, everything was built cheaper, faster and nastier. `If you are going to try to fix buildings, then really you won`t have too many problems with anything built earlier than the 50s or after the 80s.`Areas such as Newcastle city centre, Slough and Aylesbury are likely to be targeted.According to the British Property Federation, property is responsible for 50 per cent of the UK#146;s carbon emissions. The government is aiming for all new commercial buildings developed from 2018 to be zero-carbon.Last week, it was reported that the US`s first mandatory state-wide building codes have been adopted by officials in California. The Calgreen regulations are aimed at helping California achieve its target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 33 per cent by 2020. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1016 Budget airlines offer the most sustainable travel, producing low levels of carbon emissions.According to research from flight comparison website Liligo.co.uk, a couple flying from London to Venice and returning a week later would have a carbon footprint of 977kg with Alitalia.However, when flying with low cost airline Ryanair the same couple would have a smaller carbon footprint of 410kg.Similarly the research found that a flight from London to Zurich with Aer Lingus has a carbon footprint of 688kg per couple, whereas with easyJet this carbon footprint would be reduced to 277kg.The lower carbon footprint of those travelling with low cost airlines is a result of such airlines producing up to 35 per cent less carbon emissions per passenger than full service companies.Budget airlines` softer carbon footprints are thanks to their newer fleets, higher densities of seats and direct flights.Earlier this month, airline Air France introduced a new economy class seat which it claims will save 1,700 tonnes of fuel a year, the Independent reported. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1017 Schools in Lancashire are being encouraged to reduce their energy use to help the region meet carbon emissions targets.According to a report from the Lancashire Telegraph, research revealed that 53 per cent of the county council`s emissions come from schools, leading education bosses to suggest that every school should sign up to the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme.The county council has set a target to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30 per cent by 2013 and schools are aiming to cut their emissions by the same amount by 2019.Under the scheme, the schools will be given help to reduce their emissions, including cash for energy meters, new boilers and insulation.Schools will also be asked not to use heating on weekends or after hours, request an annual statement from energy suppliers, reduce energy consumption and read meters regularly.Last week, it was reported that members of Cornwall Council`s cabinet have given the green light to a scheme which will see 50 schools in the area cut carbon emissions by installing solar panels. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1015 The environmental impact of travelling to and from airports is being assessed in a major study.Research being carried out by the universities of Loughborough, Cranfield and Leeds, with funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council aims to establish the size of carbon footprint created by travel to and from the hubs.The study, which is the first of its kind, will look at innovative measures such as setting up audio/video facilities at airports so that people can see off their families without leaving home, and putting luggage-drop facilities in city centres and train stations, making it easier to travel to airports by public transport. Project leader Dr Tim Ryley of Loughborough University commented: `Travelling to and from airports #133; has a big impact, but no-one has yet quantified it or identified how to reduce it. This study will address that gap in our understanding.`Last week, the government launched the second phase of its Carbon Offsetting Facility, which will target emissions from public sector organisations. Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1014 Wind power could be used to generate 20 per cent of the electricity used by households and businesses in eastern US.According to a report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), this would also need an investment of up to $90 billion (#163;55.4 billion).David Corbus, NREL project manager for the study, said: `20 per cent wind power is an ambitious goal, but this study shows that there are multiple scenarios through which it can be achieved.`For 20 per cent of the eastern half of the grid, wind towers would need to be installed on land and sea and around 23,000 miles of new power lines would be required to carry electricity to the cities.A new innovation in wind power, the foldable and portable wind turbine, was also announced this week.Created by a design collective, the Eolic generator is intended for use on construction sites and other locations that are difficult to reach. Sat, 23 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1013 Two car manufacturers have managed to achieve a target for carbon emissions that is below the 130g/km of carbon dioxide target set by the European Union (EU) for 2012.Toyota has managed to achieve 127.9g/km and Fiat is not far behind with 129.7 g/km. In third place and just short of the EU target is Mini with 131.7 g/km.Throughout 2009, carbon emissions from new cars decreased by 5.6 per cent when compared to 2008, according to environmental website cleanandgreencars.co.uk.Jay Nagley, publisher of the site, said: `The fact that two mainstream car manufacturers have now met the target means that no major car company has an excuse if it cannot reach 130 g/km by 2012.`Mr Nagley revealed that cleanandgreencars.co.uk has calculated that half of the reductions made from cars last year were as a result of the scrappage scheme.Following on from its car scrappage scheme, the government introduced its boiler scrappage scheme earlier this month.In the new scheme, households are offered #163;400 to scrap old boilers and upgrade to a more energy efficient model. Sat, 23 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1011 The second phase of the Carbon Offsetting Facility (GCOF) has been launched by the UK government.With a focus on offsetting emissions mainly from government air travel, the second phase will also aim to target emissions from public sector organisations.Although there is a possibility for an extension until March 2013, it will cover emissions generated between April 2009 and March 2012.Joan Ruddock, minister of state at Department of Energy and Climate Change believes that offsetting has a legitimate role to play in managing emissions that cannot be reduced or avoided.``Today`s launch of the second phase of GCOF shows that government is committed to addressing its carbon impact where emissions from air travel are a consequence of carrying out essential government business,` she said.Phase one of the GCOF aimed to meet the government`s commitment to offset official and ministerial air travel emission in central government.This resulted in the government purchasing 305,000 Certified Emissions Reduction credits from Trading Emission between April 2006 and March last year.In an attempt to cut the carbon emissions produced by the aviation sector, European aircraft manufacturer Airbus is going to test biofuels as an alternative to normal jet fuel.The company believes that the fuel would be more environmentally friendly as it would not be derived from food crops, require farmland or use excessive fresh water. Sat, 23 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1012 Supermarket Sainsbury`s is switching from tins to cartons to package its tomatoes to reduce the amount of packaging and carbon emissions.The company`s Basics range of tinned tomatoes will move to cardboard cartons, cutting what it claims will be 500 tonnes of packaging every year.As its biggest selling non-fresh item, 22 million tins of its Basics tomatoes are sold every year.By replacing the tins with cartons, the company will be closer to achieving its target of reducing packaging by a third before 2015.`This type of carton is a strong challenger to the traditional tin can in many ways and may well pose a threat to its dominance over the coming years,` Stuart Lendrum, Sainsbury`s head of packaging said.He also points out that by packaging tomatoes in cartons, customers` lives will be made easier as they will take up less space in cupboards.Sainsbury`s has also pledged to switch all its fridges to CO2 refrigeration technology by 2030. It has already earmarked 135 stores for conversion by 2014, which is expected to cut the company`s carbon footprint by about one third, Environmental Leader reported. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1010 Tourists at Sir Bani Yas Island resort in Abu Dhabi will soon be travelling on two zero-emission electric buses that are due to be introduced.The 50-passenger coaches, which have been ordered from the US by the Tourist Development amp; Investment Company (TDIC), will be used to ferry people around the Arabian wildlife sanctuary.Lee Tabler, chief operating officer at TDIC, is proud to be world pioneers in the environmental initiatives to reduce the amount of carbon emissions that are taking place in Abu Dhabi.`Bringing the world`s first zero-emission buses to operate on Sir Ban Yas Island is a perfect example of what an environmentally-conscious tourism industry should be like,` he said.The buses, which are due to be introduced in March this year, have been manufactured specially to suit the climate in the Middle East and as well as offering low maintenance costs and zero carbon emissions they boast low noise and vibration levels.Other schemes being carried out in Abu Dhabi to reduce its carbon footprint include the Masdar initiative, a multi-million dollar global platform launched in 2006 that aims to increase the development and investment in renewable energy. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1008 Selby Council has set itself a goal to slash its carbon emissions by ten per cent, or 200,000 kilograms of emissions, by March 2011.The plan is part of the council`s commitment to help fight climate change, the York Press reported.`We see our role as a leader in terms of how the authority can reduce the carbon emissions of its own activities as well as supporting both residents and businesses to access the information they need to reduce their own carbon footprint,` chairman of the council`s environment board Chris Metcalfe told the paper.Areas that the organisation hopes to focus on are the carbon emissions created by staff travel and waste and cleaning services.Alterations that have been made to the refuse collection service in the area have already helped to cut Selby`s carbon footprint.Energy-saving features such as natural ventilation, solar panels and low flow taps will be incorporated into the council`s new building to help reduce emissions.A survey carried out by interactive marketing company Acxiom in 2008 discovered that 51 per cent of households in Selby are concerned about global warming and are taking steps to reduce their energy waste. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1009 Six energy advisers are to be appointed by a community project in Edinburgh to inform people about how they can cut their carbon emissions and fuel costs.Pioneering work to assist families in reducing their energy costs and tackle climate change is already underway by the North Edinburgh Trust, the Scotsman reported.The new advisers will come from the local community to focus on environmental issues in the area.`The North Edinburgh Trust`s own research has shown that households in the area can benefit from energy use reductions of up to almost half, and make huge savings on their costs, banishing for many the threat of fuel poverty,` trust chief executive Jackie McKenna told the newspaper.Ms McKenna believes that the energy adviser team will help spread the message that by cutting emissions households can make substantial savings.Another carbon cutting initiative Scotland is taking part in was also reported this week. According to the Daily Record, car manufacturer Mazda is to ship cars directly to Scotland in an aim to slash its carbon emissions by almost 500 tonnes a year. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1007 Fibre-optic cables reduce the amount of carbon dioxide produced by around 85 per cent, a study carried out by telecommunications service provider Etisalat has found.In its study on the efficiency of fibre-optic next-generation infrastructure, it was also discovered that the new infrastructure that has been deployed across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), could cut the energy required by the network by 73 per cent.Etisalat has invested in fibre-optic infrastructure to reduce the amount of emissions produced by communications activities from businesses and individuals.In the company`s study, 5,000 homes in the UAE that were connected by fibre-optic networks were compared with homes serviced by the firm`s legacy infrastructure.The study discovered that the fibre-optic system required less power and fuel to keep the buildings operational as it only required facilities to manage the network to be built at 12km intervals.For the legacy system these were needed to be built ever 2.5km, which increased the maintenance and staff transport required.This week Etisalat also announced that it would increase its stake in the company`s Indian joint venture Etisalat DB to 50 per cent from the current 45 per cent. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1005 The mayor of Torbay has shown his support for a campaign to help fight global warming at a meeting of his cabinet.Nick Bye has backed the 10:10 campaign, which aims to reduce the carbon emissions of the council, residents and businesses in the area by ten per cent by the end of the year, This is South Devon reported.Mr Bye has said he will sign up to the campaign, which was put forward by councillors Steve Darling and Colin Charlwood.In the motion, which was put forward by the councillors last month, it was highlighted that without severe reductions in greenhouse gas emissions the world will suffer drought, flooding and famine, with the poorest countries being worst affected.`Some of these countries are already suffering from the effects of climate change. This is an issue of social justice as well as a call to take environmental action,` it explained.At the cabinet meeting Mr Bye said that cutting carbon emissions made economic sense and pointed out that Torbay is well on the way to meet its reduction target. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1006 Eastern Australia experienced a decline in greenhouse gas emissions from energy production last year as the amount of coal burnt decreased.The increasing role of gas in generating electricity is seen as a factor in the decrease of emissions.In the Climate Group`s 2009 Greenhouse Indicator Annual Report it was found that in Australia`s eastern states, greenhouse emissions from energy use had fallen by 1.8 per cent last year, which also means that 5.5 million tonnes of emissions were avoided.Chief executive of the Australian Pipeline Industry Association (APIA) Cheryl Cartwright highlighted that without government assistance, natural gas has already proven its benefits to the environment.Ms Cartwright also pointed out that if all coal-fired electricity generation was replaced by natural gas-fired electricity, greenhouse emissions in Australia would be cut by 20 per cent.`Of course, we are not suggesting that this can or should happen immediately, but the figure certainly demonstrates the benefits of natural gas - the world`s lowest emission fossil fuel,` she told OilVoice.The news comes in the same week that Wards Auto reported that Australia has proposed tougher tailpipe-emissions standards. The proposed rules would reduce a new vehicle`s maximum hydrocarbon emissions by up to 50 per cent. Wed, 20 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1003 Members of Cornwall Council`s Cabinet have given a scheme the go-ahead that will help 50 Cornish schools reduce their carbon emissions by installing solar panels.A three-year low interest loan scheme will be set up using #163;1.4 million the Cabinet has agreed to allocate.Schools taking part in the solar panel scheme will be granted loans of up to #163;28,000 and will be able to use the loans to provide their share of match funding for the national Low Carbon Building Programme.The programme provides grants for installing microgeneration technologies for homes and public sector buildings such as schools, hospitals and housing associations.Commenting on the solar panel scheme, Julian German, the Cabinet member for Waste and the Environment, said: `Cornwall Council is already taking the lead in tackling the issue of climate change in the UK and this exciting and imaginative scheme is another example of the council taking action rather than just talking about the problem.`Solar panels will be provided at 50 schools through the grant, generating around 9,000 kwh of electricity for each school year. This will allow each school to save four tonnes of carbon and #163;850 in electricity costs. Wed, 20 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1004 Livestock farming makes up over half of agricultural emissions, according to a new report published by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Food Climate Research Network (FCRN).In addition to accounting for 57 per cent of agricultural emissions, livestock farming was also found to be responsible for three-quarters of land use change emissions.The new report #150; How Low Can We Go: An assessment of greenhouse gas emissions from the UK food system and the scope for reduction by 2050 #150; also discovered that the food we eat accounts for 30 per cent of the UK`s carbon footprint.Original estimates put this figure at 20 per cent, but as the study has incorporated land use change overseas the percentage has increased. The report concludes that to meet the proposed target of keeping the temperature rises below two degrees, carbon emissions from the food industry will need to be cut by at least 70 per cent by 2050.`We now know enough to conclude that the food system contributes very substantially to the problem of climate change. We also know enough about where and how the impacts arise to start doing something about them,` head of the FCRN Tara Garnett said. Following the finding from government figures that livestock emissions are responsible for four per cent of the UK`s carbon footprint, fast food chain McDonald`s has launched a research project to help the UK beef industry cut its carbon footprint. Wed, 20 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1002 The US`s first mandatory state-wide building codes have been adopted by officials in California.The California Building Standards Commission voted unanimously to approve the nation`s first mandatory building code which will take effect from January next yearDubbed Calgreen, the regulations will require every building in the state to reduce water usage by 20 per cent and instead of sending its construction waste to a landfill, half of it must be recycled.The measures are being put in place to help California in achieving its target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 33 per cent by 2020.Commercial buildings will also need to have separate water meters for outdoor and indoor water use and mandatory air conditioner, heat and mechanical equipment inspections will take place for commercial buildings of over 10,000 square feet.`We applaud the state of California for being the first state in the country to raise the floor on acceptable, green building standards,` Jason Hartke, vice president of Washington-based national policy for the US Green Building Council, told the Christian Science Monitor.This week material producer Bayer MaterialScience showed its support for a proposal by the United Nations Environment Programme for a globally consistent common carbon metric for buildings, saying it would provide a common language for measuring the energy efficiency of buildings. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 20:38:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1001 A research centre based in Yorkshire has launched and will show businesses the benefits of green living, develop new technologies and research projects needed for a low-carbon economy.Natural sciences, social sciences and engineering academics from Leeds, York, Sheffield and Hull universities are working alongside regional development agency Yorkshire Forward to create the #163;50 million climate change research centre.Yorkshire Forward has contributed #163;5.7 million to the project, which will help to achieve greenhouse gas emissions targets in Yorkshire.The Centre for Low Carbon Futures (CLCF) was launched at the Palace of Westminster at an event that was hosted by York MP High Bayley.Tom Riordan, Yorkshire Forward chief executive, believes that CLCF will put the Yorkshire region at the `forefront of low carbon technologies`.`It will allow Yorkshire and Humber`s businesses to address low-carbon challenges and access cutting edge solutions which will help them exploit the opportunities arising from climate change,` he said.Climate change proposals drawn up by local authorities in North Yorkshire are also due to be sent to the government for possible inclusion in new environmental laws, the Darlington and Stockton Times reported. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 20:38:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=999 A pavilion that will feature at this year`s Shanghai World Expo will be China`s first public building to have zero carbon emissions.The flour-floor pavilion will be located in the Urban Best Practice Area of the Expo, which will run from May until October and is expecting 70 million people to visit.All of the electricity produced at the complex will come from solar, wind, water energy and even food scraps that have decomposed.Visitors to the pavilion will be able to eat the plates, forks and knives as well as the food served there.Chen Shuo, chief of the pavilion, told the Shanghai Daily: `It sounds funny that visitors can eat their plates and other tableware, but actually they are seriously reducing carbon emissions.`Other innovative ideas outlined in the design plan for the development include a bar where all visitors will be required to return their bottles after they have finished drinking. These will be used as decorations with different lighting effects.Interactive devices will also be featured in the pavilion at which visitors can type in information such as the distance they have travelled and using which means of transport to calculate their carbon emissions.Last week, hotel and restaurant group Whitbread announced that it plans to build a second green hotel and its first low-carbon restaurant. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 20:38:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=1000 Carbon Advice Group (www.carbonadvicegroup.com) enables individuals, businesses and organizations to make money by selling carbon credits directly from their own websites. Carbon Advice Group has over 1000 Carbon Partners worldwide. Why not take a few minutes to check out the website and join up as a Carbon Partner? It costs nothing to join and takes just two minutes to get started. CEO Matthew Sullivan says: We have created a mechanism for people who are not part of the banking community or other carbon trading networks to become directly involved in the carbon markets and start selling carbon credits to their customers and earn commission at the same time. Using a carbon calculator customised with their own logo, individuals and businesses can find out how much carbon dioxide they generate each year, how to reduce these emissions and offset what`s left. They can also set up their own carbon trading website, linked to their main website. Your customers can see what you are doing to reduce and offset your carbon emissions. You can also give them the opportunity to calculate, reduce and offset their emissions through your own website. Visitors to your website can buy carbon credits to offset their own carbon footprint or donate money to environmental charities of their choice. You get commission on every carbon credit sold on your website. By empowering visitors to your website to do something about their carbon footprint your company sends a clear message that you are taking your environmental responsibilities seriously. But, its how you bundle things thats the interesting bit. If you are involved in goods and services delivery that has a high carbon footprint, it makes it possible to balance it out. Or, your customers might say as a large purchaser of your product I want you to donate a certain amount of carbon credits to a project of my choice. It enables you to engage with your customers via the web with a common environmental message. Further details: Carbon Advice Group Plc Berkeley Square House Berkeley Square London W1J 6BD www.carbonadvicegroup.com Press enquiries: Press@carbonadvicegroup.com Telephone: +44 (0)207 127 4732 Contact: Matthew Sullivan Mon, 18 Jan 2010 20:38:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=998 A rural house council house in Norfolk has had a refit to make it more environmentally friendly, the Green Building Press reported.The makeover is part of the Greening-the-Box (GTB) initiative, which hopes to show how houses that are difficult to heat and council properties can be transformed into energy efficient properties that have low fuel bills.All of the house`s windows have been double-glazed to reduce heat loss and its solid nine inch external walls have been clad with an extra 100mm of extruded polystyrene insulation.Other features of the house include 600mm of quilted recycled plastic insulation in the roof and passive stack and cross ventilation to cool the building.SEArch (Sustainable Ecological Architecture) introduced the initiative, which has been adopted by Wherry Housing Association in partnership with Broadland District Council.Founder and Managing director of SEArch Jeremy Harrall said: `The idea is to see GTB rolled out nationally. We would love to see more housing associations and local authorities take it on, and the British Council has already expressed an interest in implementing the scheme in sub-Saharan Africa.`Elsewhere in the UK, North Ayrshire Council has cut its carbon footprint by using two fuel efficient Hayter liquid petroleum gas lawnmowers. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=997 Cement producer Cemex is addressing the problem of global warming by aiming to reduce its carbon emissions.The company is reducing its carbon footprint by shifting to renewable energy and using biomass as inputs t its kilns, the New York Times reported.`We are preparing ourselves for a carbon-constrained world. We#146;re stabilizing the costs of fuel and tying ourselves to lower emission methods,` Luis Farias, the company`s senior vice president for energy and climate change told the paper.The company has also started to investigate new technologies to capture, store and recycle carbon dioxide.Mr Farias also said that 18 per cent of the company`s electricity will come from renewable energy resources this year, compared to three per cent in 2009.The main reason for this change is the 250-megawatt wind farm that has been built in Mexico, which will produce a quarter of Cemex`s electricity in the country. Power is also being provided to the organisation by a hydroelectric energy project in Panama. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=995 The Scottish island of Eigg has been awarded a green energy prize of #163;300,000 for constructing a renewable electricity grid.Residents of the island, which has a population of only 95, installed the combined wind, solar and hydro-powered electricity supply to make them completely self-sufficient in generating electricity.The renewable grid has allowed the community to reduce carbon emissions by a third over a year.Two other winners have received rewards from the #163;1 million Big Green Challenge fund from the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA).`The success of the project proves that when communities are incentivised, empowered and supported they become a compelling force in solving some of society#180;s biggest challenges,` NESTA`s chief executive Jonathan Kestenbaum said.NESTA is governed by an independent board of trustees that lead the organisation in its practical programmes, investments and research to tackle the country`s social and economic challenges. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=996 A new version of Renault`s Clio car has been released, which boasts the car manufacturer`s lowest carbon footprint.With carbon emissions of 98g per kilometre, the Clio dCi 86 Renault Eco, also includes improvements to the engine, tyres and aerodynamics.The previous model of the car produced 17g per kilometre more carbon emissions than the new version.In addition to reduced emissions, the new Clio Eco offers low fuel consumption and will retail at the same price as the current model. It also features a 1.2 TCe 100 petrol engine with CO2 emissions of 129g per kilometre.The car, which will be available in three and five-door versions in the UK later this year, was unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show yesterday.Renault claims that the car represents its commitment to `attaining a leadership position in CO2 emissions by 2015`.Also making its world debut at the Brussels Motor Show was Citroen`s all-electric four-seat city car. The C-Zero model produces no CO2 emissions and its engine is powered by a lithium-ion battery system. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=994 Japanese prime minister Yukio Hatoyama and environment minister Sakihito Ozawa joined celebrities at an event to launch the Challenge 25 campaign.The campaign aims to promote Japan`s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 per cent by 2020 from its levels in 1990, Kyodo reported.Celebrities at the event, which was held at Mr Hatoyama`s office, included actor Yuzo Kayama, soccer coach Takeshi Okada and actress Ueto Okada.An international symposium is being organised by Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) and Hyogo Prefectural Government. The event, which is to be held on January 23rd at the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art in Kobe, Japan, will see Asia-Pacific scientists, policy-makers and stakeholders discussing issues and recent developments surround a low carbon society.Scientific activities and measures that can be taken to help promote a low-carbon society will also be on the agenda at the Challenge 25 Beyond Borders-Promoting a Low Carbon Society event. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=993 Fast food company McDonald`s has launched a three-year carbon auditing study into methane emissions from cattle in 350 farms across the UK.The scheme aims to find new ways of producing beef that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.Alongside consultant E-CO2 Project, McDonald`s will be testing out new feeding and farming techniques at the participating farms.Steve Easterbrook, McDonald`s UK chief executive, said the organisation has been working for some time to reduce carbon emissions in many areas.`We are very excited by the development of this ground-breaking project, which we are piloting in the UK and which will help drive further reductions in our beef supply chain. At the same time, it should also deliver real financial benefits to the farmer,` he added.Emission levels that are collected during the project will be published in staged, with the first results expected for release in April.In September 2007, the Carbon Trust worked alongside McDonald`s in a number of ways to help it cut carbon. The fast food company aimed to increase its green credentials by using waste from its restaurants to generate power. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=992 Electricity and gas markets regulator Ofgem has been told by a consumer panel that it must ensure companies reduce their carbon emissions.The panel, which consisted of 100 people from all over the UK, highlighted `being green` as one priority, Low Carbon Economy reported.Securing resources for future generations and ensuring that warmth is affordable for poor people were also highlighted as important by the panel.Ofgem created the Consumer First Panel in 2008 as part of its Consumer First Programme that it set up in March 2007 to help it better understand the needs of energy customers.Sarah Harrison, Ofgem`s senior partner for sustainable development, believes that the Consumer First Panel provides valuable insights that help shape the company`s decisions.`The panel`s views will help Ofgem`s work to promote sustainable energy solutions and deliver low carbon initiatives such as the roll out of smart meters,` she told Low Carbon Economy. Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=991 Pupils and teachers are saving money while cutting carbon emissions by switching off school computers.Ensuring that equipment that is not in use is turned off allowed Glebelands School in Surrey to save #163;12,000 a year, the Guardian reported.In a larger school called Thomas Deacon Academy in Peterborough these energy savings were even higher, at #163;30,000 a year.It is not just the money-saving benefits driving the change in schools. Kingswood School in Bath has switched to Eco-quiet computers that use two-thirds less energy than traditional desktop PCs.The school has also set up an eco-group to encourage reducing carbon emissions by turning of equipment that is not in use. `Computers are very much part of our world but we can`t destroy the planet and leave nothing for our children,` Kingswood pupil Tamsin Ireland told the Guardian.Last month, All Business reported on Proctor School in Minnesota where students had formed a group called the Green Bandits that wanted to develop a system to run several computers off one drive, resulting in an 80 per cent reduction in energy use. Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=989 Technology provider Alcatel-Lucent is leading a consortium that aims to cut carbon emissions produced by telecoms networks by a factor of 1,000 within five years.The company, which provides solutions to deliver voice, data and video communication services, plans to do through a research project that will look into producing a technology that will make telecoms networks more energy efficient.Mobile phone operators such as China Mobile, Telefonica and ATamp;T made up the consortium, which was awarded endorsements from governments in countries such as France and the UK.However, companies including Ericsson, Nokia and Huawei Technologies are yet to back the Green Touch project.Bell Labs, Alcatel-Lucent`s research laboratories, is leading the consortium, whose members also include research laboratories at a selection of universities.Elaine Weidman, Ericsson`s vice-president for sustainability issues, told the Financial Times: `We need to have concrete targets to take care of our own carbon footprint. That is why what Alcatel-Lucent has done is commendable.` Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=990 A new consortium of major telecommunication industry players is hoping to slash the amount of energy used by the industry.Green Touch, which is a collaborative initiative spearheaded by Bell Labs, along with 14 other operators, could dramatically cut the carbon footprint of the industry sector.One of the group`s goals is to roll out next generation networking equipment over the course of the next five years, reducing carbon emissions as a result.Bell Labs head of research Gee Rittenhous claimed that the minimum acceptable reduction in energy for the sector is one ten thousandth of the industry`s total energy consumption.He said: `We expect information and communication technology (ICT) usage to dramatically increase as other industries use networks to reduce their own carbon footprints.`This naturally leads to an exponential growth in ICT energy consumption which we, as an industry, have to jointly address.`Another green growth industry will be the carbon market, which is expected to treble in size over the next four years, according to a new study from ABI Research. Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=988 Cuts to carbon emissions in the UK could be `meaningless` unless a global deal on reducing businesses` environmental impacts is achieved.However, the country must set an example to the rest of the world by pushing ahead with domestic reductions, it has been claimed.According to the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC), the British government needs to boost its efforts to prove to other nations that it is serious about achieving an international agreement on carbon emissions reduction.The EAC said that the target for carbon cuts by 2020 should be increased from 34 per cent to 42 per cent reduction on 1990 levels.Tim Yeo, the committee`s chairman said: `We must send a clear signal to developing countries that we are serious about making an international deal work #150; by meeting our own targets more quickly.`The slower our progress, the less credibility we will have internationally.` Last week, environment secretary Hilary Benn announced plans to add carbon footprint labels to supermarket food to make consumers more aware of the environmental impact their weekly shop has. Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=987 One of the world`s first carbon-free perfumes has been launched by Blue Marble Energy (BME) and Seattle-based couture perfumery Sweet Anthem.BME is a US company that is committed to cutting carbon emissions by using hybridized bacteria to generate biochemical and bioenergy products.James Stephens, chief science officer at the organisation, believes the potential outlets for its chemicals are vast.`Fragrance is just one of many examples in which carbon neutral, renewable biochemicals can directly replace polluting petrochemicals in high value products,` he explained.The carbon-neutral fragrance, called EOS, is petrochemical-free and contains only bioderived organic materials.Blue Marble Energy`s bioesters, which are derived from certified organic brewery grain, are also used in the perfume. All other ingredients are locally sourced from organic, sustainable, or wild harvested materials distributors. Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=986 UK energy, utilities and materials companies in the FTSE 100 could stop the country meeting its target to reduce emissions.For the UK to meet the level of emissions reduction it hopes for by 2020, energy firms will need to double their efforts to cut greenhouse gases, a report from the Carbon Disclosure Project said.`If we continue on this trajectory, we will not deliver in line with government requirements for 2020, until 2030,` the report explained.Paul Dickenson, chief executive of the project, emphasised the importance for the sectors that are responsible for nearly 90 per cent of FTSE 100 reported emissions to set aggressive reduction targets.It was also discovered through the report that the materials sector which is responsible for over 25 per cent of emissions will be to blame for a 1.5 per cent increase in emissions.Almost 90 per cent of the FTSE 100`s total emissions was also found to be generated by only 24 energy, materials and utilities firms, which will need to increase their annual reduction rate from 1.2 per cent to 2.4 per cent to meet the government`s targets.The Carbon Disclosure Project is an independent not-for-profit organization that audits the greenhouse gas emissions of companies. Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=985 The UK government has announced its plans to clearly mark what the carbon footprint of food sold in supermarkets is on labels.Information such as the product`s country of origin and how much energy has been used will feature on labels.Environment secretary Hilary Benn has already warned that in future foods such as red meat which are less carbon intensive will need to be eaten more.`Over the years ahead we are likely to see more information about how things are produced and what the carbon impact is,` he said at the Oxford Farming Conference.At the conference Mr Benn highlighted the importance of targeting food production and consumption, which accounts for nearly a third of Europe`s carbon emissions.Companies such as Tesco and Pepsi have already started to display carbon reduction labels on the packaging of certain products, ahead of the government`s plans. These show the amount of carbon produced in growing the food and in its packaging and transportation. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=983 The Welsh Assembly Government has given a #163;1.3 million cash boost to Wrexham to help it reduce its carbon footprint by investing in environmentally-friendly projects.Energy-efficient street lights and domestic boilers are some of the items the money will be spent on, the Daily Post North Wales reported.Council officials have set a target of cutting carbon emissions by 50 per cent in the next five years and as a result save the authority #163;19 million.Wrexham`s strategic and performance director Phil Walton believes the funding allows them to make `a major in-road` into the area`s targets.`It is very good news for Wrexham and in terms of funding for these projects it puts us in a very good position,` he told the newspaper.He also explained that the money would go towards changing the energy conservation budget of the council into a recycling model.Last month Wrexham MP Ian Lucas did his bit to promote energy efficiency when he test-drove a new Mini electric car that would help cut carbon emissions. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=984 A voluntary scheme led by the Freight Transport Association (FTA) has been launched to discuss how to measure and reduce the logistics sector`s carbon footprint.The Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme (LCRS) has received support from some of the leading members of the FTA.It aims to find the best way to record, report and reduce carbon emissions produced by the freight transport sector.FTA president Stewart Oades believes that climate change is too important to ignore and he looks forward to working with the Department for Transport to develop a `robust and consistent` carbon measurement and reporting method.`We take our environmental responsibility very seriously and FTA has positioned itself at the vanguard for carbon reporting and, subsequently, reducing its footprint,` he explained.LCRS members will be required to submit their fuel data for FTA to analyse under the scheme in order to create a picture of the carbon footprint of the logistics sector. This will then be used to form the government`s reduction policy.The FTA represents the transport interests of firms moving goods by rail, road, sea and air. It also consigns over 70 per cent of sea and air freight and over 90 per cent of the freight moved by rail. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=982 Hospitals and prisons are the worst producers of carbon emissions, according to a recent survey on greenhouse gas emissions from public offices in England and Wales.The government`s assessment involved 28,000 buildings in public ownership being surveyed, including some of the country`s most famous sites.A total of nearly 14 million tonnes of carbon dioxide were found to be emitted in a year from the buildings surveyed. This figure was 17 per cent higher than previous estimates.The list of top carbon emitters included New Scotland Yard, the Tate Modern and the Palace of Westminster.It was also discovered that eight out of the ten highest carbon emitting buildings were hospitals, with the worst being the Royal London in Whitechapel. The worst prisons were found to be the Grove young offenders institute in Dorset and Pentonville prison in London, both emitting over 16,500 tonnes a year.Following the survey, the prison service has said it is spending #163;4.5 million on measures such as automatic meter reading and insulation to reduce emissions by three per cent a year for the next five years. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=979 Massachusetts, along with ten other eastern American states, has agreed to develop a regional programme by next year to help cut carbon emissions from vehicles.The state will explore a low-carbon fuel standard, although it is not committed to a specific programme.Other states that have signed the agreement include Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Rhode Island. All but one of the states are members of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) which was set up to regulate the level of emissions from power plants using a cap-and-trade programme.The RGGI, which is the first mandatory, market-based carbon emissions reduction programme in the US, hopes that by setting a carbon price for emissions, plant owners will be encouraged to reduce their greenhouse gases.In the memorandum, it was proposed that the states look into a method of establishing trading credits for transport fuels, as seen in the RGGI`s programme, to cut emissions.A proposed framework for the programme has been requested to be completed by early next year. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=980 The Planning Commission is to set up an expert group to suggest how India can move towards a low-carbon economy. Led by economist Kirit Parikh and former United Nations under secretary general Nitin Desai, the group will draw up a plan of how carbon emissions can be reduced in the country without having an impact on its economic growth.The group may propose steps that can be put in place by the middle of the five-year plan, which will run from 2012 until 2017, minister of state for Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh told the Indo-Asian news Service (IANS).Last month, Indian officials calculated that the country would cut its carbon footprint by 24 per cent by 2020, when compared to levels in 2005, if the National Action Plan on Climate Change targets were met.After China, the US and Russia, India is the world`s largest emitter of greenhouse gases. Its per capita emission is over a tonne of carbon dioxide a year.The country would also be one of the worst affected areas by the effects of greenhouse gases, which include raising sea levels and storms. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=981 A plan is being put in place to help reduce carbon emissions in Ryedale, North Yorkshire.Schools in the county will be targeted as part of the strategy to reduce the effects of climate change, the Malton Mercury reported.`As well as applying energy saving measures to schools and other services over which we have direct control, the strategy also sets out to encourage the wider community of North Yorkshire to do its best to tackle climate change,` Carl Les, executive member for corporate services at the council told the paper.North Yorkshire County Council has approved the steps that will be taken, which includes a carbon reduction officer being employed to advise schools on how they can cut their emissions.Last month a pilot scheme was started in the area that hoped to meet the government`s long-term goal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.The scheme aimed to cut down on the number of garden waste bins being that were emptied during the winter by collecting bins one a month instead of fortnightly. This would mean that the distance travelled by lorries to collect the waste would reduce and in turn so would the pollution caused. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=978 Throughout 2009 Iggesund Paperboard reduced fossil carbon dioxide emissions by 65 per cent at Iggesunds Bruk mill.The paper manufacturer produced 63,000 tonnes less carbon emissions as part of its plan to use more biofuel and cut energy consumption last year.Guy Mallinson, business director sales at the company, said that even before the move, Iggesund Paperboard`s business operations were robust and sustainable.`Almost 95 per cent of Iggesund Bruk`s energy consumption is from biofuel and we have one more investment step left before our vision of a paperboard mill totally free of fossil CO2 will be a reality,` he said.The reductions in emissions came from a combination of energy savings and investments in increased capacity for biofuel use.Iggesund Paperboard has a long-term approach to the environment and evaluates environmental aspects when making any investment decision, Mr Mallinson explained.Part of its long-term programme has been the company`s energy supply, which is based on heat from its own production processes. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=977 The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Scotland has called for free loft insulation in every home in Scotland.It makes up part of a three-pronged approach set out by the group in response to a Scottish government consultation on Scotland`s Energy Efficiency Action Plan that ended yesterday.WWF Scotland believes that urgent action is called for as the current policies will deliver just nine per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2020 instead of the 42 per cent target it was aiming to reach.`Home energy use accounts for over a third of Scotland`s greenhouse gas emissions, so if we are to meet the targets, the Scottish government must act urgently to make all Scottish homes low-carbon,` Elizabeth Leighton, senior policy officer at the group, said.She also proposed that house-by-house eco-refurbishment should take place across Scotland along with a commitment to minimum energy-efficiency standards for private housing occurring within five years.Last month Scotland was commended for its efforts in cutting carbon emissions when the BBC reported on the approval of plans for a wind farm in East Renfrewshire to increase in size. The Scottish government said the growth would result in the support of 200 jobs and powering of 275,000 homes. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=975 Large companies in France that produce high levels of carbon emissions will be disciplined under new carbon tax legislation.Over 1,000 companies will be penalised in relation to how much pollution they create and the amount of competition their sector contends with, French economy minister Christine Lagarde told French newspaper Les Echos.According to European Union rules, emissions at these sites will have to be reduced by 21 per cent by 2020.`We are working on the possibility of applying reduced rates and of putting in place other incentive mechanisms or platforms,` Lagarde explained to the paper.Under legislation that was due to come into play from January 1st, the companies would have been exempt from paying the carbon tax. However this was annulled just before it was to come into force.The previous version of the bill, which was announced by president Nicolas Sarkozy in September last year, but the Constitutional Council argued it had too many exemptions for companies such as oil refineries and power stations. A new legislation is currently being put together for the carbon tax to be presented to the cabinet on 20th January. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=976 Following the success of its car scrappage scheme, a new boiler scrappage initiative has been announced by the government which aims to encourage people to replace their old boilers.It is hoped that the scheme will help to reduce carbon emissions as domestic heating makes up 14 per cent of the UK`s emissions.New A-rated boilers will use less fuel than older G-rated models as they have rated efficiencies of 90 per cent or higher. This will mean that not only running costs are reduced but emissions are cut too.Those applying to the scheme will receive a #163;400 voucher to put towards the cost of a new more energy-efficient boiler, if their old boiler is G-rated.The #163;50 million scheme, which is funded by the taxpayer, will benefit those in England only. It is expected that 125,000 homes with G-grade boilers will reap the rewards of the scheme.`Today`s announcement will slash household energy bills and carbon emissions while providing an important boost for the British heating industry,` UK prime minister Gordon Brown said as he launched the scheme.He also explained that it will help secure 250,000 jobs across small and medium businesses involved in boiler manufacture, sales and installation. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=973 The carbon emissions trading market will increase over the next four years as a result of more companies taking measures to reduce their carbon emissions.According to a new market study by market intelligence company ABI Research, the global carbon market will more than treble by 2014 from its levels in 2008.It will reach nearly $400 billion (#163;250 billion), compared to $118 billion in allowances traded in 2008.From the research, the company also anticipates that between last year and 2014, $14.6 billion will be invested in 73 new carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) projects, which prevent 146 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.CCS allows the industries responsible for the heaviest pollution to make use of new technologies to capture the carbon dioxide they have generated and store it safely for long amounts of time.Atakan Ozbek, the author of the study, said: `One of the major findings of the study is an increasing interconnection between CCS and the Carbon Emissions Trading market, as carbon credits accrued from CCS plants will be traded at carbon exchanges, generating additional revenue for CCS project developers.`A recent study from Columbia University`s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory has suggested that offshore basalt formations may be the ideal choice for a sequestration reservoir of carbon dioxide captured from power plants in the United States` Northwest and East Coast. Thu, 7 Jan 2010 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=974 A pilot carbon emissions trading scheme is to be launched in South Korea at the start of 2010, the country`s government has confirmed.The ministry for the environment in the region has confirmed that a trial initiative will run from January, after it received applications for the scheme from over 600 private and public sector bodies.According to Reuters, trading will be based in local areas initially, before being moved to the Korea Exchange from 2011.In a statement quoted by the news provider, the ministry said: `The scheme is designed to meet the country`s mid-term emission reduction target and connect with international carbon market.`Details of the project have come after Jong-Whan Noh, president of South Korea Carbon Finance, told the Carbon Market Developments Across Asia event that the country was keen to get started on the issue.The Bangkok Post reports that the conference was held as part of the United Nations summit on climate change in Copenhagen. Sat, 2 Jan 2010 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=972 Light emitting wallpaper could be developed to cut carbon emissions by replacing traditional light bulbs in the next few years.LOMOX, the company that is developing the technology that stimulates chemicals to produce light using an electrical current, has been awarded a #163;454,000 grant from the Carbon Trust to help integrate the technology into homes and businesses. Organic light emitting diodes would be coated onto a thin film covering the wallpaper. It can also be used for appliances such as flat screen televisions and mobile phones.It is expected that by using the light emitting wallpaper, it will be 2.5 times more efficient than energy saving light bulbs.Ken Lacey, chief executive of LOMOX, said that the firm hopes that the technology will be available to screen and lighting producers by 2012. It will then be developed for use outdoors.He also explained that the development was a result of a growing need to develop lower carbon lights that will comply with the increasingly strict European Union efficiency standards for lighting.Lomox was set up in the UK in December 2007. Last year the company also filed patents and established its laboratory at the OpTIC Technium technology centre for research and product development in north Wales. Thu, 31 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=971 Energy bills could rise as a result of falling carbon prices that are paid by heavy polluters.Money will not be spent to build costly nuclear reactors and clean coal prices at the current carbon price, energy suppliers E.ON and Centrica have said.Currently prices are about #128;12 (#163;10) a tonne of carbon but, according to experts, a price near to #128;40 is required to build new nuclear reactors. Lower prices give companies less motivation to invest in reducing their greenhouse gas output. A spokesman for E.ON told the Guardian that government action is essential or firms will not invest until electricity prices increase.`Power prices would go through the roof #150; they would have to get at a level where we think `there`s money to be made`. But we will get very, very tight [on security of supply]. It`s the worst case scenario,` he explained.The news follows the prices for carbon permits for December 2010 on Europe`s emissions trading market dropping by ten per cent last week.It also comes after the decision at the Copenhagen climate change summit not to stick to the proposed target of a 30 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2020. Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=970 Two companies that invest in low-carbon energy companies have agreed to merge.Closed-end investment company Trading Emissions and Leaf Clean Energy, which invests in clean-energy firms that are mainly in North America, are to join forces.The all-share deal will create the largest carbon-focused company in London, with a market capitalisation of around #163;600 million. Once merged, the company will feature a portfolio of renewable energy projects and carbon credits in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the US.#147;As the US carbon market evolves, many of the investments we make will start generating carbon credits. So, we`ll have two complementary skill sets #151; trading carbon and investing in low-carbon companies,` Neil Eckert, who will be chairman of the combined company, told the New York Times.He also explained that the deal will allow the merged company to be elevated to the main board of the London Stock Exchange from the junior alternative investment market segment both companies currently trade in.Leaf Clean Energy, which is based in the Cayman Islands, and Trading Emissions, based on the Isle of Man, specialise in investing in renewable energy projects involving renewable sources such as wind, solar, biomass, ethanol, biodiesel and hydropower. Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=968 NASA and Google are to launch a programme to allow pollution from carbon dioxide and deforestation to be measured.The launch of NASA`s $280 million (#163;174.9 million) science satellite called Orbiting Carbon Observatory failed in February when it fell into the Antarctic waters.However NASA earth sciences chief Michael Freilich said that, with funding, it could create a $330 million copy of the satellite in under three years.Steve Pacala, director of the Princeton Environmental Institute, believes that a satellite such as NASA`s is crucial for accurate measurements and providing information about the level of emissions each individual power plant produces, which is `crucial to the cap-and-trade programs to reduce carbon emissions`.Google has also rolled out Earth Engine, a new programme which allows countries free access to satellite and other data to keep track of how much forest has been saved. It is expected to be ready in time for the next climate change conference in Mexico next year.Brian McClen, vice president of engineering for the Google Geo Group, demonstrated the programme at this year`s climate change conference in Copenhagen. `The science is out there, but the ability to run it on large numbers of machines by countries in previous years who couldn`t afford it is now possible,` he told Associated Press. Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=969 A low-carbon community in Wales has won a #163;350,000 grant to build a centre for research and education on low-carbon lifestyle.The building will make up part of the Lammas project, which already features nine families living in eco-smallholdings in North Pembrokeshire.It has been chosen as one of ten UK low-carbon communities to receive a grant from Whitehall Department of Energy and Climate Change.`The UK has the most ambitious emissions reduction commitments in the world and communities like this will help to develop the policies we need in the future to make the successful transition to a low-carbon economy,` energy and climate change minister Joan Ruddock told Wales Online.As well as being used to launch the Lammas` low-impact housing initiative, the community hub will promote carbon-positive food and fuel.Over 300 communities had registered their interest in the competition and the ten winning projects will use the money they have received to help them save energy and cut emissions by buying items such as community wind turbines, solar panels, heat pumps, insulation and green transport. Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=967 Carbon emissions from the government estate have dropped by ten per cent in the last financial year compared to 1999 levels.The improvements were a result of an increase in recycling, fewer emissions from vehicles and a reduction in waste and water consumption, an Office of Government Commerce`s (OGC) report explained.Central government departments have a target to increase energy efficiency per sq m by 15 per cent by 2010 compared to 1999 levels. The report revealed that a reduction of 17 per cent has already been achieved and the government expects a further drop of 23.7 per cent by 2010-11.`Reducing total CO2 emissions will remain a key priority. There are firm plans for immediate, medium and long-term improvements, supporting the achievement of sustainable operations on the government estate targets and to improve display energy certificate ratings,` the report said.Next year the government`s plans to reduce its carbon footprint include a #163;20 million investment in innovative low carbon energy-efficiency technologies to cut emissions and energy bills.It has also committed the country to cutting carbon emissions by 34 per cent by 2020 and 80 per cent by 2050. Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=966 Staff at Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA) are using woodchips to keep the offices warm.The new environmentally-friendly heating system has helped the authority, which is located in Grassington, to reduce its carbon footprint.All of the wood fuel used in the biomass boiler is produced from local sustainably managed woodlands in Yorkshire.`Wood chippings are a renewable fuel while conventional fuels are not, so the big benefit is that, by burning them rather than fossil fuel, we are cutting our carbon emissions and so reducing our carbon footprint #150; helping us to reach our target,` said William Weston, the YDNPA`s member champion for climate change.The authority first showed its commitment to helping fight climate change when it joined over 200 other organisations in supporting the Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change in 2007. One of the measures Copenhagen is hoping will help it reduce its CO2 emissions by 20 per cent by 2015 is switching power and heat generation fully from coal to biomass, or more specifically wood chips. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=965 Asian countries are supporting carbon credit trading in their own countries and across borders.China, South Korea and Japan have all backed the approach, which is used to control pollution by providing economic incentives for reducing emissions of pollutants, the Bangkok Post reported.`South Korea is eager to create a good carbon market,` Jong-Whan Noh, president of South Korea Carbon Finance, told the Carbon Market Developments Across Asia event, held at the United Nations climate change conference in Copenhagen.Low-carbon growth was adopted by South Korea three years ago, which has helped to lead the way for other developments to reduce carbon emissions.Japan has also proposed cutting greenhouse gases by 25 per cent under 1990 levels by 2020 and a carbon credit market will be developed by the country. China has also been taking measures to reduce its carbon footprint by looking into the new Tianjin Climate Exchange. Companies are encouraged to reduce greenhouse gases by selling their credits through the platform.The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has also been making efforts towards cutting emissions by providing support to expand the use of wind power throughout remote communities in Asia. By 2020 the bank estimates that small wind power systems will avoid 1.25 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year and serve at least 2.5 million poor people. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=964 A Bangalore-based company that produces electric bikes will be rewarded in the form of carbon credits.With the support of Swiss consulting group Grutter Consultants, Eko Vehicles has estimated an annual reduction of 386,889 tonnes of carbon dioxide.The company has already sold 18,000 electric scooters over the last four years, with each one saving up to 0.4 tonnes of carbon per year.Anil Ananthakrishna, chairman and chief executive officer at Eko Vehicles, told DNA Money:`The company will be getting carbon credits equal to earnings of $4 million (#163;2.5 million) over a ten year crediting period.`Grutter Consulting has seven clients that are benefitting from the carbon offsets business model. It is also in talks with at least five other clients keen on cashing in on carbon credits. Other electric bike manufacturers that are in the process of registering themselves with the United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change include Hero Electric, Delhi-based Lohia Automobiles and Ahamedabad-based Electrotherm. The governing body is involved in reducing carbon emissions around the world. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=963 Peugeot has confirmed its commitment to reduce the carbon footprint of its cars to provide a future of sustainable mobility.The car manufacturer revealed that half of its vehicles sold in the first nine months of 2009 have emission levels under 130g/km. It also said that 47.5 per cent of the firm`s worldwide sales have a low carbon footprint by being under 140 g/km.Reductions in the carbon emissions from Peugeot cars have been possible through a variety of technologies such as naturally aspirated petrol engines with variable valve timing and particulate filters.Almost all of the automobiles from the car manufacturer have these technologies integrated, proving that efforts are being made to make its products greener.The company`s new electric car, the iOn, will be released at the end of next year. Inverness council leader Michael Foxley told the BBC that he would be keen to see vehicles in use.`I can certainly envisage a time when electric vehicles replace conventional petrol or diesel cars and vans in areas of the Highlands,` he said. Fri, 18 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=962 The US will work with Malaysia to help it with its pledge to reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change.At the climate change summit in Copenhagen, Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak announced that the country had agreed to a 40 per cent cut in carbon dioxide emissions by 2020.It would only make the reduction if it was given support from the developed world to reach its target.At the conference he also revealed that Malaysia is committed to making sure at least 50 per cent of its land remained as forests.`We have seen prime minister Najib`s announcement in Copenhagen. Our aim is to work with Malaysia and other developing nations to achieve ambitious objective,` James Keith, the US ambassador to Malaysia, said.Mr Keith explained that the US is seeking a global agreement that would include commitments to cut emissions and finding a way to verify any cuts made. The deal would also ensure that technological and financial help was given to developing countries. Fri, 18 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=960 The targets for global carbon emission reduction by 2020 that have been set by the European Union (EU) and UK government are not enough, Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC) has said.Environmental data analysed by the professional services firm showed that the basic targets to cut emissions by 20 per cent by 2020 would result in an overshoot equivalent to one year`s emissions of carbon.The more ambitious end of the pledges, which would see a reduction of 30 per cent, would exceed by the same amount as six months worth of emissions by 2020.Richard Gledhill, global leader, climate change and carbon market services at PwC, said the basic pledges would `leave us some considerable way short of the low carbon pathway`.`To make sure the sum of the parts adds up to the whole, we need an effective monitoring, reporting and verification regime. This is likely to be a contentious issue next week, but mustn`t be fudged,` he added.The company`s analysis is based on a target for 2020 of 40 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. This is consistent with the most ambitious of three scenarios put forward by Lord Stern earlier this month in his review for the government that set out the cost of tackling climate change. Fri, 18 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=961 A scheme from the Conservative party will cut carbon emissions, save families money and create significant employment.In the proposed green deal, every home in Britain would be entitled to energy efficiency improvements up to #163;6,500, shadow energy and climate change secretary Greg Clark told the Guardian`s. The money would then be paid back by the families over time.This would follow an independent assessment of the work that is necessary and the money it would save. In addition, it would make sure the savings in energy bills were greater than the cost of paying back the amount borrowed.The Conservatives have investigated why Britain`s homeowners were not making great efforts to make their homes warmer.`We found good reasons for their inaction: not knowing where to start; not having a trusted supplier to carry out the work; and not having the cash to pay for the upfront costs,` Mr Clark said.A national scheme would not only have an effect on carbon emissions, it could directly create 36,000 jobs in installing and surveying and a further 42,000 in the energy efficiency supply chain.The Conservatives announced this week that if the party was to be elected next year the mayor of London and 14 local councils would pilot the green scheme. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=958 UK prime minister Gordon Brown has called for richer states such as the US and European countries to offer the maximum reductions in emissions.In his speech to the 192 delegate countries at the Copenhagen climate change summit, Mr Brown also demanded more ambition from poorer nations; saying that they should show a `significant reduction from business as usual`.When he arrived at the summit Mr Brown said: `Over the next three days the leaders of almost every nation on earth will gather in Copenhagen. Their role; their opportunity; their responsibility: to shape the future of humanity. It is a defining moment.`The prime minister used the speech to urge agreement around six principles. These included cutting emissions from developed nations by 80 per cent by 2050 and preventing global temperatures from rising by more than two degrees on pre-industrial levels. Mr Brown recognised it was unlikely that a detailed agreement would be made at the summit and has therefore set a deadline of a year for any political agreements drawn up at the conference to be changed into legally-binding deals. This has increased from the original six-month deadline he recently proposed. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=959 Prince Charles spoke about how the #147;survival of the species#148; was in peril due to climate change at the United Nations (UN) climate change summit in Copenhagen.During his speech the royal warned world leaders at the event that they had only seven years to save the world.He also pointed out that even though reducing poverty, increasing food production, combating terrorism and sustaining economic development are crucial, it is becoming apparent that rapid climate change will make these issues difficult to address.`The conclusion I draw is that the future of mankind can be assured only if we rediscover ways in which to live as a part of nature, not apart from her,` Prince Charles said.Prime minister Gordon Brown also spoke at the conference, warning of the huge costs to our standard of living if we do not tackle climate change.The effects Mr Brown highlighted included a reduction in the national income of up to 20 per cent and an economic catastrophe `equivalent in this century to the impact of two world wars and the great depression in the last`. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=957 A foundry in Wales that has cut its carbon emissions has made a saved #163;110,000 in energy costs in one year.In June last year die-casting and engineering company Melloy invested in green technology that allowed it to reduce emissions by 600 tonnes, the BBC reported.As well as a desire to reduce emissions, Melloy`s decision to invest in greener technology was influenced by ever changing energy prices. This urged managing director Neil Barren to make changes to save the firm money.The company, which is based in Pontypridd, received help from Carbon Trust Wales (CTW) to slash its emissions by 45 per cent.Through a loan and the CTW`s support, the organisation was able to become more energy-efficient by upgrading its furnace linings and installing 18 recuperative burner furnaces.`Any business taking steps to reduce carbon emissions is doing a good thing,` CTW`s Mike Batt told the BBC.Mr Batt spoke of the `fantastic opportunity` a climate deal at the summit in Copenhagen offers businesses in Wales to save money and take advantage of the developing green economy, reported Wales Online. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=956 China has opposed the idea that carbon tariffs should be forced on goods made in the developing world.Under the proposed US law, tariffs would be imposed by 2020 on imports of various goods from nations such as China that are seen as not cutting their emissions enough.`We will always oppose any practice of establishing trade barriers under the guise of protecting the global environment,` Yu Qingtai, China`s climate change ambassador said.Commerce ministry spokesman Yao Jian is also against the measure, saying it would `restrict trade and economic development` and could harm poorer countries. Last week Carol Guthrie, a spokeswoman for the US Trade Representative`s office, said that the country had declared its total support in taking `early action` to ease up trade in products which shrink down greenhouse gas emissions.The trade official also said that the US believes it can stimulate good progress in broader world trade talks on environmental goods and services, Reuters reported. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=955 Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd has said it is necessary for emissions reductions to be made in all areas of the Australian economy.The cutbacks will need to extend further than forestry and agriculture to achieve ambitious carbon reductions of 25 per cent by 2020.In order for these changes to be made in all sectors of the economy, Mr Rudd believes a trading scheme to be the most efficient method. This involves offering economic incentives for those that are successful in cutting back their emissions.Mr Rudd, who flew to the climate change summit in Copenhagen yesterday, has said that the proposals made by all other nations to cut carbon emissions are insufficient.The prime minister hopes that a ``binding operational agreement`` will be produced at the conference which would evolve into a greenhouse gas-reduction treaty.However, opposition leader Tony Abbott said Australia does not need an emissions trading scheme such as Mr Rudd`s. He believes changing land use rules and introducing measures on renewable energy and energy efficiency would reduce emissions. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=954 Ocean acidification from rising levels of carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere causes substantial `irreversible` damage to ocean ecosystems, a study released by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) shows.As seas and oceans absorb around a quarter of the CO2 released by human activities, ocean acidity could rise by 150 per cent by 2050.This is 100 times quicker than any change in acidity the marine environment has seen in the last 20 million years.The effects could result in endangering biological systems that cannot adapt to the sudden changes and could take tens of thousands of years to recover from.Among other findings, the study discovered that rising ocean acidification will result in approximately 70 per cent of cold water corals, a main shelter and feeding ground for some fish species, being exposed to corrosive waters by 2100.Ahmed Djoghlaf, executive secretary of the CBD, has urged for attention to be given to this issue at the global climate change debate in Copenhagen.`Ocean acidification is irreversible on timescales of at least tens of thousands of years and substantial damage to ocean ecosystems can only be avoided by urgent and rapid reductions in global emissions of CO2,` he said. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=953 Northern Ireland environment minister Edwin Poots has highlighted the importance of securing a global deal at the climate change summit in Copenhagen to reduce carbon emissions. He believes participation of the most polluting nations is needed at the event.Mr Poots, who is attending the conference this week, will be updated on the progress that has been made there by secretary of state for energy and climate change Ed Milliband.The minister is combining fact-finding visits to Danish waste management facilities with attendance at events linked to the summit in Copenhagen. As Mr Milliband is leading negotiations on behalf of the UK, Mr Poots felt it was important to show his support in the `very difficult task` of reducing global emissions.`In the run up to the event I have emphasised the need for any deal reached to be truly global,` the minister said.Brian Wilson, member of legislative assembly at the Green Party, welcomes the environment minister`s decision to attend the United Nations conference. Mr Poots` predecessor, Sammy Wilson, failed to do so `when he refused to attend the Bali Climate Change talks in 2007`, according to Mr Wilson. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=952 Fuel efficiency and operational improvements could lead to a 30 per cent reduction in carbon emissions per seat km flown, according to a report from the Committee on Climate Change (CCC).In January the government adopted a target to reduce UK aviation emissions back to 2005 levels in 2050, when the committee was asked to assess the options for emissions reduction in an aviation report.The report has urged for a cap to be placed on emissions as currently the government will not hit its targets if aviation growth exceeds 60 per cent between now and 2050.According to the committee, in 2050 sustainable biofuels may also account for 10 per cent of aviation fuel that is used, while engine and airframe design innovation will lead to improvements in fuel efficiency.Lord Turner, chair of the independent body, believes that the production of CO2 from aircraft must be included within the strategy to tackle climate change.`We have set out options for achieving the government`s target that aviation emissions in 2050 should not exceed 2005 levels. Given the likely pace of technological progress a demand increase of up to 60 per cent but no more could be compatible with the government`s target,` he explained.It was originally anticipated that with no runway capacity constraints and no carbon price, the number of passenger journeys would rise by 200 per cent in the next 40 years relative to 2005 levels, which is a stark contrast to the CCC`s suggested growth limit. Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=950 UK prime minister Gordon Brown will travel to the United Nations (UN) climate change conference in Copenhagen tomorrow, two days earlier than planned.It is hoped that by meeting other world leaders at the summit, such as Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd and the prime minister of Norway Jens Stoltenberg, progress will be made towards producing a political agreement.`The prime minister is concerned that the commitments on the table in Copenhagen remain short of those required,` a Downing Street source said.Mr Brown is arriving early for the meetings to try to put together a combined package of emissions reduction and financial commitments which can achieve an agreement that would limit the expected global temperature rise to two degrees Celsius, reported the Metro.This has been an issue of much contention at the summit with some countries and small island nations saying that their regions could not survive such temperature increases.The UN climate conference in Copenhagen, which runs until December 18th, is reported to be making progress toward agreeing a new global framework for regulating carbon emissions and mitigating the breakdown of global climate systems. Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=951 Two US senators have revealed an alternative proposal to the cap-and-trade legislation to limit global warming emissions.In a cap-and-trade programme, a government or regulatory body sets a limit on the amount of environmental degradation in an area. Companies or individuals can then trade permits or credits to meet the cap.The new bill introduced by senators Maria Cantwell, a Washington Democrat, and Susan Collins, a Maine Republican, would focus on producers and importers of fossil fuels such as utilities and oil refineries, instead of placing carbon limits on most major polluters.In the new, more streamlined scheme, known as cap-and-dividend, regulated companies would have to buy permits for their carbon dioxide emissions from the government in monthly auctions.Taxpayers would be refunded 75 per cent of the revenue made from the auctions to offset higher energy costs. The remaining money would be used for clean energy research and development and energy efficiency.The proposed alternative climate bill follows days after a plan was announced to promote renewable energy and nuclear power by senators John Kerry, Joe Lieberman and Lindsay Graham. Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=949 The `heat is turned up` for climate changeNext year is set to see the heat turned up as the world battles against climate change, according to research.Scientists at the Met Office have predicted that the world`s temperature will be around 0.6 degrees C over the 1961-90 average.The Met Office Hadley Centre carries out climate change research and is responsible for advising the government, with part of the work that it carries out funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).Although record temperatures are not a definite for next year, the situation will be reviewed as more information becomes available.Recently released data states that this year is anticipated to be the fifth-warmest year in records that date back as far as 1850.Defra exists to help people adjust to the necessary changes for bringing about a low-carbon future with a resource-efficient economy. It strives to facilitate a healthy environment and sustainable society. Sat, 12 Dec 2009 11:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=948 Yesterday (December 10th) marked the first meeting of the Forum for a Just Transition.The purpose of the forum is to make sure the UK industry conversion to being low-carbon creates windows of opportunity, in the fight to cut CO2 emissions.It combines consumer, industry and trade unions in order to carry out discussions.Pat McFadden, business minister who chaired the meeting, said: `The Forum for a Just Transition will help us work to ensure all people have a stake in the low-carbon economy and the opportunities it brings.``That is why the Government has announced investment of up to #163;240 million.`Investment money is set to be spent on marine and wind power, with an extra #163;30 million for low-carbon transport - which brings the total for this area to #163;430 million.Mr McFadden added that the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Centre (NAMC) in Sheffield has been established in order to assist firms with attaining required standards for supplying components to the nuclear industry. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=946 A Glasgow school was keen to share its climate change tips with the international development minister Mike Foster yesterday (December 10th).Working with a partner educational establishment in Malawi, the school has been raising funds for a solar roof panel.Mike Foster said: `The money that they have raised for solar panels in Malawi is a great example of how schools in developed and developing countries can work together to make a difference.`He highlighted that it is of particular importance considering this week has marked the commencement of talks about climate change in Copenhagen, acknowledging it is `good to see` action being taken to help the environment.What was clear to the representative was that by working together the two schools were making a positive impact on their surroundings locally, but also globally.Thanks to the Global School Partnerships Programme, Govan High School pupils have been able to meet up with the students from Malawi.According to the British Council, teachers throughout Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean are finding out that partnerships through the global school scheme not only bring about new chances for learning but also bring global issues into the classroom. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=947 To reduce carbon emissions, discussions at the Copenhagen conference this week have leant towards a new strategy.Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation plans after Kyoto will be working towards an effective way of reporting and tracking their CO2 emissions.The loss of tropical forest amounts to around 17 per cent of the world`s carbon dioxide emissions.The Woods Hole Research Centre (WHRC) is responsible for the commencement of a new programme, set to focus on coming up with `spatially consistent pan-tropical data`.As a three-year plan the idea is that it will also assist in carbon stock and forest cover monitoring.Josef Kellndorfer, an associate scientist at the WHRC, said: `Japan`s cloud-penetrating ALOS/PALSAR sensor has greatly advanced satellite-based forest observation. Jaxa`s Kyoto and Carbon Initiative has been instrumental in pushing a global radar-based data acquisition and observation strategy since 2006.`The Phased Array type L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (PALSAR) is an active microwave sensor that attains day-and-night observations that are cloud-free using L-band frequency. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=944 Soil could take away additional amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.In the US the forests in 48 states are said to potentially be able to provide storage for three to seven billion metric tons of carbon.To find out the amount of carbon possible to store in soil and forests, US Geological Survey (USGS) scientists investigated maps detailing historical vegetation pre human changes, alongside those of vegetation that could occur without natural disturbances such as pests, drought and fire.Ken Salazar, secretary of the Interior, said: `Carbon pollution is putting our world and our way of life in peril.`By restoring ecosystems and protecting certain areas from development, the US can store more carbon in ways that enhance our stewardship of land.`He added that using the natural resources can help to reduce global warming.USGS scientists discovered that conterminous US stores 17 billion metric tons in forests and 73 billion metric tons of carbon in soil.These figures add up to 50 years worth of the states` present CO2 emissions.USGS`s mission is to provide reliable information of a scientific nature to help understand and describe the Earth. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=945 Recent research has made in depth studies into how grasslands react to climate change.The Grassland Science`s researchers at the Technische Universitaet Muenchen (TUM) have taken up the issue for the first time.Horns of Alpine ibex from Switzerland and 150-year-old hay from the UK were the two elements to provide the scientists with their answers.Professor Hans Schnyder commented on the difficulties that conducting the research presented.He said: `The grassland vegetation we work with is grazed or dies off in a matter of months and decomposes.`To discover how the water use efficiency is altered in grassland the expert had to discover a grassland time series which would compare to that of trees, hence the team turning to the Museum of Natural History in Bern`s Alpine ibex horn collection.As ibex horns have annual rings they were able to use their samples to make conclusions about temporal changes in the grassland where the ibex had grazed - in the Bernese Alps.The scientists concluded that as the CO2 emissions in the atmosphere went up, plants increased their water storage potential.TUM sets out to execute cutting-edge research on an international scale. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=943 Today (December 10th) could mark the beginning of an important occasion for Essex residents in the battle against climate change.As the government is proposing a nuclear power station in the area, the locals are being given the opportunity to have their say at a consultation event.With the UK looking to develop new ways to secure the future of power supply and cut down on CO2 emissions, nuclear power is said to be a necessary measure in some instances.The event will provide those living in the Essex area to have their say about the impact of the station being built in their community.Energy and climate change minister Lord Hunt commented: `As we head towards a global agreement to tackle climate change the UK needs to transform its energy sector, replacing old infrastructure with high tech, low-carbon energy sources.`His praise for nuclear power was that it is cost-effective, reliable and low-carbon, hence being vital to the new mix for Britain`s energy supply.Following on from the government`s announcement of a number of proposed nuclear power station sites, the Department for Energy and Climate Change - created in 2008 - launched its 15 week consultations with the public in those areas. Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=942 An additional wave of government funding is set to boost the UK towards a green recovery.Today (December 10th) the Chancellor detailed his pre-budget report which is anticipated to seal the UK`s title as a climate change leader.In the announcement the government representative stated that four Carbon Capture and Storage technology commitments of a commercial scale would be committed to.Ed Miliband, secretary of state for energy and climate change commented that the battle for this generation is overcoming climate change.He stated: `We have a unique opportunity, as we recover from the global economic downturn, to ensure that the UK builds a low carbon economy fit for the future.`Other spending will come in the way of assisting those who are in need of insulation and heating for the home with #163;200 million dedicated to making good headway in terms of energy-efficiency.The provision of Renewables Obligation Certificates (ROC) to accredited offshore wind installations was included in the government mix. A ROC certificate provides accreditation for UK generated renewable electricity for licensed suppliers. Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=940 The European Investment Bank (EIB) has made a EURO 718 million commitment to assist Turkey to combat climate change.EIB`s money will be used to assist with energy and the environment plans alongside transport initiatives in the country.Matthias Kollatz-Ahnen, the organisation`s vice-president, commented: `Efficient infrastructure in transport, energy and environment is key to the development and prosperity of Turkey and its accession process to the European Union.`He added that as the EU`s bank the organisation is keen to demonstrate its commitment to Turkey.Today`s funding was in relation to Turkey`s infrastructure and the country`s dedication to progressing the potential of renewable power.Additional state funding for the Turkish State Railways brings the total commitment by EIB to a sum of EURO 850 million.The Turkish State Railways money provided additional support needed for Turkey`s main transport corridor between Ankara and Istanbul.EIB was created as a result of the Treaty of Rome in 1958 so it could become the EU`s long-term lending financial institution. Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=941 The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has highlighted the assistance it is able to offer as the United Nations COP15 talks on climate change commenced this week.More than 60 countries have called up its services in order to assess whether they should introduce the use of nuclear power - set up originally as Atoms for Peace in 1957 as part of the United Nations group.Gasses, that bring about climate change are able to be reduced with the right type of technology, according to the organisation.Part of the IAEA`s role is to make sure new countries adopting the use of such power do so in a secure, safe and peaceful way.The IAEA helps member states carry out environmental and energy analysis independently in order to come up with national power plan strategies.It helps with the training of national experts and the transfer of analytical and planning tools.Through such activities the organisation assists countries in deciding on what their energy mix should be and if it should include nuclear power.By promoting water resource management and sustainable agricultural production it is assisting members to compensate for some of the effects of climate change. Wed, 9 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=939 Yesterday (December 8th) marked the announcement of a new wave of government funding to secure a low-carbon future in the fight against climate change.The #163;60 million package is set to be invested in the North East and follows on from a Corus announcement last week regarding job cuts.Lord Mandelson, business secretary, said: `Following the announcement that Corus will mothball its Redcar plant we must act to secure long term employment in sustainable manufacturing in the region.`He added that the government`s reaction along with the investment from the Regional Development Agency (RDA) would not only sustain current industry but be responsible for creating new opportunities.As a result of Corus` plans to dispose of 1,700 jobs the government has taken the initiative to prioritise some projects to secure investment and support workers at the location.The newly proposed plan from the government is expected to create 3,000 new jobs and mean the continuation of a further 10,000 jobs in the long-term.Mr Mandelson claims that the Teeside area has both the infrastructure and workers to ensure it can compete in future low-carbon manufacturing and government action is supporting this belief.RDAs work to provide prosperity to regions that they serve and act as strategic leaders #150; delivering the views of those who live and work in each region of the UK. Wed, 9 Dec 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=938 To try and highlight how we can combat climate change a micro Eco-Rally was launched yesterday (December 8th).It was set to coincide with the beginning of the Copenhagen talks which commenced for COP15.The team of eco drivers set off from London at 05:00 GMT for Copenhagen to prove that you do not have to fly everywhere. They were scheduled to arrive at their destination at 22:00 GMT.Organised by Revolve Global, the journey involved Organic Power, Honda and Revolve Technologies.Revolve was responsible for the first eco-rally to be launched in 2007 by HRH Prince Charles.As well as being filmed, those who are technologically savvy could follow the event on social networking site Twitter.COP15 talks are scheduled to continue until December 18th with some stating that they mark the globe`s last opportunity to save our world from the effects of climate change.The occasion marks the 15th United Nations talks on global warming issues. Wed, 9 Dec 2009 11:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=937 Waste has been cited as playing an important role in climate change, according to the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA).This month the organisation produced a White Paper, relating to climate change.It is ISWA`s mission to come up with professional and sustainable waste programmes by training, education, research, certification and knowledge sharing methods.ISWA`s paper stated that it is possible to reduce CO2 emissions by simply managing waste better.An example used to verify this was that in the European Union an estimated 18 per cent of the Kyoto CO2 reduction target could be accounted for by municipal waste management.The document also highlighted that 20 per cent of Clean Development Mechanism programmes for CO2 emissions are waste initiatives.In order to achieve the greatest impact it was suggested that governments focus on eradicating open waste dumping by improving collection services and coming up with eco-friendly ways of working as alternatives #150; such as sustainable landfills.The major feature of the Kyoto Protocol is that the targets set by it are binding for the countries signed up. Tue, 8 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=936 A new set of animals are having to combat the effects of climate change, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).Yesterday (December 7th) the organisation released a list detailing animals who could be under threat.The new report is entitled Species Feeling the Heat: Connecting Deforestation and Climate Change and was released at the same time as climate change talks commenced in Copenhagen for COP15.Dr Steven E Sanderson, president and chief executive officer of the WCS, said: `The image of a forlorn looking polar bear on a tiny ice floe has become the public`s image of climate change in nature, but the impact reaches species in nearly every habitat in the world`s wild places.` The document states that deforestation has a role to play in terms of climate change as it is responsible for almost 20 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions.Deforestation therefore accounts for more emissions than all of the trains, cars, planes, ships and trucks in the world combined.By safeguarding the habitats of wildlife and animals themselves, the WCS claims that the planet can be protected from global warming. Tue, 8 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=934 A snowflake`s structure could be telling when it comes to the ozone layer`s depletion and climate change causes, according to scientists at one educational establishment.Travis Knepp, of Purdue University has been studying the winter-wonder in order to gain insight about the ozone situation in the Arctic.He said: `A lot of chemistry occurs on ice surfaces. By better understanding the physical structure of the snow crystal - how it grows and why it takes a certain shape - we can get a better idea of the chemistry that occurs on that surface.` Mr Knepp - of the university which has its main campus in West Lafayette in Indiana - has been exploring why sharp transitions in shape happen in snowflakes at varying temperatures.The expert conveyed that many people will be aware of ozone depletion in both the South and North poles but highlighted what they may not understand is that `ozone levels decrease significantly at ground level` which he states is of importance.Ground-level ozone provides the atmosphere with the ability to clean itself - according to Mr Knepp - being toxic to vegetation and humans at high concentrations.As complex chemical reactions occur regularly on the surface of the snow, he states that certain chemicals are released which lessen the ground level of ozone - and how quickly the reactions occur is partly limited by the surface area of snow crystals. Tue, 8 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=935 A new agreement has been signed to help in the fight against climate change.It will mean that #163;5 million in new grants becomes available for research on technology for offshore wind farms.As well as the UK eight other countries have put their names to the integrated offshore grid agreement in the Irish and North seas today (December 7th).Lord Hunt, the energy and climate change minister who signed the documentation on behalf of Britain, said: `We`re already the world leader in offshore wind here in the UK and today`s announcements bring new funding and expert direction to grow this vital new industry.`He added that the new agreement will facilitate working together with other countries to achieve the common goal of expanding the EU`s renewable energy supplies.Mr Hunt also revealed the appointment of Professor Bernard Bulkin as the expert chair of Department of Energy and Climate Change`s (DECC) Office for Renewable Energy Deployment and the next round of Low Carbon Energy demonstration capital grants for Vestas.The DECC was established in 2008 and currently has three overall objectives #150; to ensure Britain becomes low-carbon, assure an international agreement on climate change at Copenhagen is achieved and that energy is affordable, secure and efficient. Mon, 7 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=932 Today (December 7th) marked the launch of climate change talks in Copenhagen.Alongside the discussions getting underway, the second reading of the government`s Energy Bill also took place in the Commons, with homeowners in specified cities set to participate in a #163;4 million Pay As You Save scheme.Ed Miliband, energy and climate change secretary, said: `The next two weeks in Copenhagen are crunch time for the planet. The UK has taken a lead in putting solutions on the table throughout the process so far and I`ll not rest until we have the most ambitious, effective and fair deal possible.`Under the Pay As You Save initiative, homeowners in Stroud, the London Borough of Sutton, Sunderland and Birmingham will try out new methods to finance energy makeovers for the entirety of their homes.The scheme will provide the opportunity for homeowners to invest in microgeneration technologies and energy-efficiency without incurring any upfront costs.It is thought that around 500 homes will take part in the trial which will lead to conclusions on how to fund the rest of the country`s eco makeover under the government`s plan to ensure 22 million properties become more-energy efficient.COP15 talks will run until December 18th and marks the 15th of the United Nations` climate change conferences Mon, 7 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=933 Christine Chapman, member of the National Assembly for Wales and Committee of the Region`s rapporteur, has recently spoken out about a document that seeks to combat climate change.What the representative expressed concern at was the lack of local government involvement highlighted in EU2020, as she believes this to be imperative.She stated: `I have highlighted the importance of an EU-wide cohesion policy, both in terms of the benefits it provides in supporting flexible and targeted actions on the ground #133; which place local and regional partnerships at the heart of delivering the funds.`The EU2020 plan was announced last month by Jose Manuel Barroso and represents a consultation process that is set to go on until January 15th next year.It states that the successor of the Lisbon agenda will be a `greener#146;, more social strategy that will set the foundations for sustainable, long-term, crisis-resistant growth`.This sentiment of the announcement mirrored Ms Chapman`s own plans which she terms as a `sustainable Europe strategy` which serves to make sure that economic growth is conditional to the safeguarding of the environment.In spring of 2010 the commission intends to present a formal EU2020 proposal. Mon, 7 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=931 Financial institutions have come together in order to fight climate change.The group of international heads made a statement urging a `comprehensive agreement` to be reached at the Copenhagen conference (COP15).A joint announcement came from IMF and the Multilateral Development Banks. Alongside this came the message that the group would be responsible for their own targets in achieving greener ways of working.Donald Kaberuka, president of the African Development Bank, said: `The impact of climate change on Africa is already evident. It adds a significant additional burden to existing challenges of poverty.`He added that the country is in urgent need of more resources to maintain growth and protect both its forests and lakes.The leaders highlighted that they are committed to facilitating the development and transfer of climate-friendly technology and assistance with developing nations adapting to climate change.COP15 will mark the biggest international political talks on climate change that have ever been held, commencing from December 7th to the 18th.It is anticipated that the event will attract 15, 000 participants this year. Sat, 5 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=930 Europeans have spoken out to make it clear that climate change is one of the greatest dangers we face.The conclusion came as a result of a recent Eurobarometer survey, published today (December 2nd).Margot Wallstrom, vice-president of the European Commission, said: `The message of the European citizens is clear: the fight against climate change must remain a top priority of EU action.`She added that fighting back against the economic recession and climate change are both important battles.Results of the survey showed that 63 per cent of respondents cite climate change as very serious, with just ten per cent stating it is not a serious problem. It was only poverty that came higher in the list of world problems scoring 69 per cent, with the number of people citing climate change as the most serious problem facing the world right now - totalling 47 per cent.The Eurobarometer was carried out as a result of the European Commission. The body has been monitoring public opinion since 1973 in order to assist its decision-making processes. Sat, 5 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=928 The European Commission outlined its high expectations for the Copenhagen conference on climate change today (December 2nd).It stated that the agreement must be `ambitious and comprehensive`.Jose Manuel Barroso, commission president, said: `In Copenhagen world leaders must take the bold decisions needed to stop climate change from reaching the dangerous and potentially catastrophic levels projected by the scientific community.`He added that the event will provide a chance to create the roadmap for a low-carbon society and presents the ideal opportunity for us to make sure that we work to ensure that global warming does not exceed 2 degrees C.Mr Barroso suggested that such activities would serve to foster innovation and also the growth of green collar jobs.The European Union is setting out to ensure that the agreement, which will succeed the Kyoto Protocol in 2013, is both ambitious and legally binding.In was back in 1997 that the Kyoto Protocol was adopted, entering into force in February 2005. Sat, 5 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=929 A new Green Bus Fund is setting out to cut CO2 emission in cities.The initiative comes from the Department of Transport (Dft) which will provide #163;30 million in order to ensure an estimated 349 vehicles have hit the UK`s roads by 2012.Sadiq Khan, transport minister, said: `Both the environment and British industry is receiving a major boost from this #163;30 million fund. It gives the initial support needed to stop the rise in bus CO2 emissions we`ve seen over the last ten years.`Low carbon buses emit a third less emissions and use 30 per cent less fuel than a conventional bus - meaning they can play a crucial role in combating climate change.It is thought that the more of these types of buses that are purchased by local authorities and operators the cheaper the cost of buying them will become, which will have a positive impact on the low carbon bus market.According to the DfT, 21 per cent of Britain`s total domestic greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to transport. Sat, 5 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=926 A low carbon economy is on the agenda of one car manufacturer which is working towards cutting CO2 emissions.Yesterday (December 2nd) BMW held a conference in Berlin relating to sustainable travel.Ian Lucas stated that low carbon creates a `tremendous economic opportunity` for businesses.The representative from the sixth biggest car manufacturer stated that there is a trend towards thinking of cutting emissions as incidental but it really translates to changing everything we do.It is not simply a case of using a different type of lightbulb and it must therefore extend to the running of factories and so forth.Mr Lucas highlighted that the distance between what is trying to be achieved and the success rate or doing so, stating that consumers need to be convinced it is the right thing to do.He concluded by saying that although BMW has devised three methods for making the UK low-carbon in the future it is imperative that on top of this partnerships are formed - nationally and locally #150; with businesses and governments.BMW claims to be the first firm to carry out its own sustainable value report, the results of which showed that although there has been a marked increase in vehicle production, energy consumed per vehicle made had gone down in the past five years. Sat, 5 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=927 The government has announced a new initiative this week to help combat climate change.In a bid to boost the civil nuclear industry Lord Mandelson outlined a package for the North West and Yorkshire areas.The business secretary detailed motions that are geared towards enabling British businesses to take up opportunities in what was termed as a `rapidly expanding sector`.It was noted that the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (NAMRC) would be led by the University of Sheffield, to be based in South Yorkshire.The NAMRC is supported by #163;15 million from the government and forms part of the Low Carbon Industrial Strategy commitment.Lord Mandelson stated: `We know that we have to make the transition to a low carbon future, and the government is determined to ensure that British businesses get the support they need to seize the business opportunities.`Rolls Royce will be the lead industrial partner which will see both the University of Sheffield and Manchester University`s Dalton Nuclear Institute working together.The Dalton Nuclear Institute claims to encompass a wide portfolio of capabilities in nuclear research fields. Sat, 5 Dec 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=925 Temperature increases in the sea at Kuwait Bay may be indicative of climate change.After testing it has been discovered that the water`s current temperature rise per decade is around three times more accelerated than the global average.The findings come as a result of research from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).Dr Thamer Al-Rashidi, a researcher from the National Oceanography Centre, said: `Because the waters of Kuwait Bay are well mixed by the tides, measurements of sea surface temperature can be used to assess temperature trends over time in the bay as a whole.`The official and his team discovered that Kuwait Bay`s sea surface temperature increased at 0.62 degrees C every ten years.He stated that approximately one third of the temperature increase is as a result of global climate change.The IPCC is currently making preparations for its fifth assessment report on climate change, which forms one of the organisation`s key functions. The last such report was published in 2007. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=924 A government announcement today (December 1st) is set to the spur the UK towards a greener future.John Healey, housing minister, detailed how #163;135 million of government funding could be used to ensure Britain meets targets for building more greener homes and reducing CO2 emissions as a consequence.The money will be sourced from the Housing and Planning Delivery Grant (HPDG) for the building of properties in the Yorkshire and Humber area and serves to top up the #163;100 million that area officials were given in 2008.Council applications for the grants within the awarded local authority regions must demonstrate they are providing plans and land to build up the number of available and suitable properties now and in the future.The funding is intended to build green homes for families both in the private and public sector, with councils having identified a minimum of five-year`s worth of suitable sites for the proposed housing that are ready to be used right away.Only yesterday (November 30th), energy and climate change minister, Lord Hunt commented on the need for the UK to tackle climate change as talks commenced over the building of a new Suffolk power plant.He stated that low carbon energy will be key alongside nuclear power in securing future energy supply for the UK. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=923 Eco projects are to be provided support by a well-known banking organisation, it was announced today (December 1st).South African renewable energy schemes will be boosted by a #128;40 million (#163;36.3 million) loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB).Plutarchos Sakellaris, the bank`s vice-president responsible for activities in the country, said: `This loan is part of the EIB`s continued strong commitment to promoting economic development across South Africa. Working closely with FirstRand Bank to increase electricity generation capacity and promote use of renewable energy.`It marks the fourth payment to South Africa which has been sourced from the EIB. It is said to adhere to objectives set out by bodies including the European Union (EU), relating to energy-efficiency goals which will be vital for the development of the country`s economy.The EU currently consists of 27 member countries which have given some of their lawmaking authority over to the body.Projects that will be focused on as a result of the new financial agreement include assistance for renewable energy schemes and residential energy-efficiency installations, alongside cogeneration with the money being used for a number of climate change mitigation actions. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=922 A new carbon credits initiative is creating millions of jobs.The Australian model is being given the credit of having widespread global potential as it uses indigenous fire management techniques.In the past three years, the West Arnhem Land Fire Abatement (WALFA) initiative has been responsible for the reduction of CO2 type emissions by 488,000 tonnes in Northern Australia.On average 140,000 tonnes of this can be sold as credits on an annual basis on the carbon exchange market.Joe Morrison, chief executive officer of WALFA, stated: `The many compelling side benefits of the initiative include the protection of biodiversity, cultural heritage and landscapes of global importance.`It has been anticipated that the project will create 200 jobs from the offset and it is thought that a similar type of project could be adopted in Africa.The model works by controlling the early dry season fires and is supported by modern-day technology. The result is reducing wildfires in the late dry season whilst also maximising the protection of biodiversity.Alongside WALFA, the North Australian Indigenous Land and Sea Management Alliance (NAILSMA) has managed to raise millions of dollars from the Australian government towards to assist with Indigenous land managers` projects.NAILSMA is an `unincorporated bioregional forum for Indigenous land and sea managers across North Australia`. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=920 Climate and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has spoken out about the need for a focus on climate change with the Copenhagen conference drawing ever closer.He said: `Every day, in any way we can, we will be pushing every country to show the necessary ambition for the agreement we need.`The MP added that it was imperative for Copenhagen to succeed but to do this there must be public pressure and the same from politicians.Last week the government committed #163;50 million to assist more than 60 of the poorest countries in the world with tackling climate change by facilitating essential research.The money is for the production of the Climate and Development Knowledge Network, which has been funded by the Department for International Development.At the time Douglas Alexander, secretary of state for international development, stated: `For this funding to make the biggest difference, recipient governments need the detailed research which rich nations take for granted to make their decisions.`He added that it was for this very same reason that the UK has chosen to found such a `groundbreaking network`. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=921 An aircraft control representative has spoken about the need for further action to be taken to cut back on effects of climate change.John Stewart, spokesperson for the Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise (HACAN), commented on whether more action needs to be taken to cut back on CO2 emissions.He said: `It certainly does. Emissions from aircraft are the fastest growing source of CO2 emissions.`More needs to be done [both] in developing cleaner planes.`The representative added that it is necessary to cut back on the number of planes actually in the skies to be able to achieve the airlines targets for reducing pollution.According to a press release by the International Civil Aviation Organisation earlier this month, a worldwide framework has been adopted after a recent conference.It formed part of an additional ongoing campaign to cut down on the effects that aviation emissions have.HACAN represents the biggest voluntary European body which campaigns for people who suffer due to the paths of flights. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=918 One expert has stated that energy grids could be part of the answer to the UK`s supply of energy.John Barwise, chairman of the Cumbria Green Business Forum, commented on the research that has been carried out by Greenpeace on energy grids.He said: `The Greenpeace research into transboundary smart grid electricity #133; should be given serious consideration. `But before we start spending billions of pounds on supplementing the energy we are using, we should deal with the energy we are wasting.`The representative added that energy efficiency is paramount for the `political agenda of every nation` at the Copenhagen conference next month.Last week the Department of Energy and Climate Change stated that there would be new rules relating to the connection of power plants to the UK`s power grid, which was highlighted in August.Ed Miliband, climate change secretary, said that there have been some issues with getting renewable energy suppliers connected to the grid, which is a high priority to rectify for the government.He added that in order to be able to combat climate change such projects must be linked to grid as soon as possible. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=919 Tibet`s exiled Buddhist leader the Dalai Lama urged world governments to make fighting global warming a priority. During talks in Sydney, he said combating climate change needed to take centre stage on both personal and national fronts. The Dalai Lama noted that reducing carbon emissions was taking the back seat to economic issues because elected administrations felt the pressure to favour the interests of the country over those of the planet. He asserted: `That ... should change. The global issue should be number one. In some cases in order to protect global issues, some sacrifice of national interest is needed. `The spiritual leader went on to say: `Taking care of the environment should be a part of our daily lives` and gave examples of how he attempts to reduce his carbon footprint in his own day-to-day life. His comments came on the heels of a debate in Australian government on if a CO2 emissions trading scheme should be the nation`s key climate change policy. A Nielsen poll in the Sydney Morning Herald found 66 per cent of Australians supported such a framework in their country, with 25 per cent being opposed. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=916 One representative has spoken out on the methods that need to be implemented in order to reduce CO2 emissions caused by planes.John Stewart, spokesperson for Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise commented that cutting the number of domestic flights would be a good step on the road to cutting CO2 emissions.He said: `I think if that was to happen there would be a good alternative, such as affordable rail services. But [domestic flights] do need to be phased out.`It was also noted that the expansion of airports creates problems with emissions, which Mr Stewart claimed is an example of the government trying to have its cake and eat it.The professional stated that it is not possible to both cut CO2 emissions and expand airports as the two do not go together.Last week easyJet called for a tougher stance on airline emissions in order to achieve a 40 per cent reduction in gases emitted from the next generation of aircraft.It was suggested that such a measure could be implemented in three stages, commencing with short-haul aircrafts first of all. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=917 Past periods of regional cold and warm patches could be vital in helping predict the effects of climate change, it has been claimed.Experts from Penn State University in the US have concluded that phenomenon such as the El Nino effect and the so-called North Atlantic Oscillation in the Northern hemisphere`s jet stream are linked to previous regional warm and cold periods.`Studying the past can potentially inform our understanding of what the future may hold,` suggested Michael Mann, professor of meteorology at the university.It is hoped that by studying these phenomena and how they have been linked to previous cold and warm intervals could help experts understand how they are likely to react to man-made climate change.Meanwhile, China has announced this week that it has for the first time set targets on tackling climate change and pollution in its own country.The state has long held out against setting targets to cut its pollution, but has now agreed to cut carbon dioxide emissions per unit of gross domestic product by up to 45 per cent by 2020 compared to 2005 levels.The move is considered to be an important breakthrough in getting one of the world`s largest polluters to tackle its contribution to man-made climate change. Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=915 It has been announced today (November 27th) that the euro area`s Business Climate Indicator (BCI) improved for the month.Such a rise has been attributed to a wider improved sentiment from managers.The majority of companies report higher production expectations.In October of last year it was reported that the BCI dropped to values that had not been witnessed since 2001.At the time, this was attributed to subdued industrial activity.It was commented about the decline that it `was fairly sharp for managers` production expectations and assessment of total order books and export order books`.For any businesses which want to work towards making their carbon footprint less in the future, the Carbon Trust website can help.It contains information that relates to not just small businesses - and can direct you with information on how to go about obtaining interest-free loans to make your company eco-friendlier.Good news comes with the fact that the loan limit has also been doubled now to #163;500,000 - available to large firms which do not come under the Carbon Reduction Commitment. Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=912 A new department to assist developing countries to tackle climate change was announced today (November 27th).The Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) will come about as a result of #163;50 million funding from the Department for International Development (DFID) for a five-year period.Secretary of state for international development, Douglas Alexander, said: `For this funding to make the biggest difference, recipient governments need the detailed research which rich nations take for granted to make their decisions.`He added that this was exactly the reasoning underpinning the new network #150; attempting to assist both poor and rich countries in fighting climate change together.The CDKN will centre around a number of well-regarded organisations in the climate sector from across the globe. Services provided to the network will mostly come from global partners.Mr Alexander added that when the Copenhagen talks commence, the UK will put up a hard fight to ensure that a good finance deal is achieved for developing nations.Part of the DFID`s role is to make sure that British aid for the world`s poorest countries is made the most of. Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=913 Next week will mark the twelfth Eu-China Summit relating to climate change.The occasion will take place in Nanjing on Monday November 30th.China`s delegation will be lead by premier Wen Jiabao on the date, which will also focus on the present economic climate combined with other international issues.One of the European representatives due to attend the event is the president of the European Commission, Jose Manuel Barroso.He commented on the expectations of the occasion, saying: `From this EU-China Summit we intend to send a strong message on our shared determination to face and overcome together global challenges.`The representative highlighted that the event comes just seven days before the United Nations Copenhagen conference about climate change - and only a matter of one day before the Lisbon Treaty`s entry intro force.Mr Barroso added: `There is a lot we can achieve together also in economic recovery - and the reform of international financial structures.`The Lisbon Treaty was signed in December two years ago by 27 member states. Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=914 Yesterday (November 25th) saw the inauguration of a new wind farm by officials.The site near Mons in Belgium now hosts the first park in the world to have giant seven MW wind turbines and is sure to help towards cutting CO2 emissions for the future.Andris Piebalgs, energy commissioner, said: `Estinnes is a milestone on our ambitious road to sustainable energy.`All those having worked hard to bring this project forward should take pride today in their achievements, and take courage for the work ahead.`The project received in the region of #128;3.3 million (#163;3 million) from the 7th Framework and was co-financed by the European Commission.As the biggest turbines that have ever been put into operation on a worldwide scale, the Enercon E-126 seven MW machines at the newly-opened park required the use of 1,600 tonne crawler cranes to facilitate their installation.For use of smaller turbines, the UK is said to be the ideal location according to the Energy Saving Trust, as 40 per cent of all European wind energy blows over the country. Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=911 Newly released research today (November 26th) has revealed that some small businesses are finding it hard to reduce their carbon footprint.The findings from Abbey and Alliance amp; Leicester Business Banking showed that 42 per cent of such companies want to become greener but are being held back.Of those questioned 26 per cent put environmental issues high on their agenda.A reason given for hindering eco developments was expensive costs, with 17 per cent of respondents stating finance was a key issue.The research found that overall 98 per cent of firms have taken at least some course of action in the name of combating climate change, 18 per cent more firms when compared to last year`s figures.Such figures mean that on average each company has spent #163;1,000 on becoming greener as an organisation, some of the examples being by inputting renewable energy sources.Other actions that were noted were simple things like turning off equipment after use.For businesses wanting to reduce their carbon footprint, advice can be found on the Carbon Trust website. Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=910 With climate change on the forefront of the UK`s agenda there are a number of programmes of research ongoing - and one has just fallen foul to crime.It has been said that a thorough enquiry will be instigated after a security breach at an East Anglian climatic research unit this month.A representative from at the University of East Anglia commented on the impact of the event after it was hit.He said: `We are aware that information from a server used for research information in one area of the university has been made available on public websites. This information has been obtained and published without our permission.`The official added that the educational establishment is currently taking actions to investigate having already contacted the police and commenced its own internal enquiries.Climatic research has led to a number of suggestions on how to combat climate change in the UK but businesses can help too by carbon offsetting overseas.Other ways to reduce your carbon footprint include taking measures such as heat recovery, according to the Carbon Trust.This allows for the capture of waste heat energy in order to make use of it again. Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=909 Today (November 25th) saw the announcement of a new energy efficiency partnership set to be launched soon and working towards reducing CO2 emissions.It seeks to promote investment in such initiatives by starting with the Eastern Partnership region in Ukraine.Eastern Europe`s need for improved energy efficiency is well reported, as further measures are said to be needed in order to hit the challenges head on.Benita Ferrero-Waldner, commissioner for external relations and European neighbourhood policy for the European Commission, said: `Ukraine has a fantastic potential to save energy and energy efficiency represents Ukraine`s single best opportunity to improve its energy security by reducing its import dependency.`She added that implementing modest investments could bring about significant results for the country.The representative also commented that she hoped Ukraine experiences regarding energy savings would enable it to see the all round benefits #150; for the planet, consumer and economy.The partnership will commence after it is announced at a donor conference on November 26th.It has been organised by the Swedish Presidency of the EU and the European Commission to take place in Stockholm.The EU currently has 27 member countries. Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=908 One government official has announced today (November 25th) that health should be at the forefront of climate change concerns.Today`s Lancet report was expected to outline the risk of damage to our health that climate issues pose.Some of its key findings state that housing insulation can lessen the number of deaths from both extreme heat and cold.By changing practices for farming - to decrease the amount of livestock and how much meat we consume - would benefit us as less fat intake would be the result of eating less meat.Health secretary Andy Burnham was set to speak at today`s launch, expected to highlight how climate change can cause malaria due to increasing temperatures #150; spreading up mountains.Mr Burnham said: `Climate change can seem a distant, impersonal threat - in fact, the associated costs to health are a very real and present danger. `Health ministers across the globe must act now to highlight the risk global warming poses to the health of our communities.`Carbon dioxide is one of the main climate change-causing greenhouse gases, according to the Energy Saving Trust. Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=907 A government announcement today (November 24th) has marked out the UK`s future on zero carbon homes.In a bid to tackle climate change it has decided that Britain`s homes must too become more efficient.John Healey, housing minister, said that the new standards would add `real momentum to change and radically rethink how we design our towns and homes for the future`.Measures included in the bill address the installation of better windows and insulated walls so draughty homes will become history.It is expected that not only will the action on improving properties result in cutting down on the energy they lose but it will mean savings for home owners to the tune of #163;150 each year in some cases.New standards are set from 2016 with #163;10 billion being invested by the government to get green technology and skills off to a head start.Other methods of tackling climate change include carbon offsetting, which has been top of Australia`s agenda this week.Martijn Wilder, head of the global climate change team for Baker and McKenzie, commented to Reuters after Sydney chose to revise its carbon offsetting scheme this week.He said: `The really key interesting thing is that agricultural offsets are in and that is quite significant.` Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=905 A new green strategy has been initiated today (November 24th) which will work towards tackling climate change and reducing CO2 emissions.Its purpose is to ensure that the EU moves forward to `deliver greener and socially inclusive growth`.Entitled EU2020, it seeks to build on the work already done in the Lisbon Strategy.Jose Manuel Barroso, commission president, said: `EU 2020 means the EU working together over the next decade to overcome some of the toughest economic challenges that Europe has ever faced.`He added that this includes working towards combating climate change among other matters.A deadline for the consultation responses has been set for January 15th of next year, after which the new commission will set about forming a proposal for the Spring European Council.There are many ways in which individuals and businesses can work towards combating climate change and reducing CO2 emissions, by opting into carbon offsetting schemes and simply managing energy usage more efficiently.Organisations such as the Carbon Trust can help with advice and tips for cutting down business energy usage. It states that by just revising your energy management firms could save up to 20 per cent on power. Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=906 Half of CO2 emissions have been found to reside in locations such as forest ecosystems and oceans, according to the latest edition of Nature Geoscience.Published findings conducted by researchers of a book-keeping project created a balance of the greenhouse gases for Europe for the first time recently.It found that the resulting net CO2 sink stands at is 274 million tonnes of carbon per year for the European continent, which represents 15 per cent of emissions from burning fossil fuel.As ecosystems are managed as a land management by-product it means that there are other powerful greenhouse gases released from the likes of crop fertilisers and the impact of such emissions previously has been neglected.The research was led by Professor Detlef Schulze. He said: `These findings show that if the European landscape is to contribute to mitigating global warming, we need a new, different emphasis on land management.`He added that the landscape must be managed in order to decrease the emissions.According the Carbon Trust, the Clean Tech sector - working towards low-carbon technologies - could be valued at around #163;127 million by 2015. The organisation is set to be responsible for 15 such projects this year. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=903 A new campaign is set to target climate change issues and encourage people to reduce their CO2 emissions.Launched by Act on CO2, the images displayed on billboards are set to show a very different picture of the UK if action is not taken by individuals.Joan Ruddock, energy and climate change minister, said: `These posters will be appearing in streets across England, bringing the issue of climate change to our doorsteps.`She added that as there are only 13 days before the Copenhagen talks start, it is ever more important that everyone is well informed about the threats that climate change poses.A poll carried out recently by the Department of Energy and Climate Change showed that 74 per cent of people would take immediate action now if they were certain it would affect the lives of their children.It was thought by 52 per cent of respondents that individual actions can make a difference.There are also services that can be obtained relating to building design advice which can help businesses, provided by the Carbon Trust.Such assistance gives advice about procuring energy-efficient buildings and making the right decisions relating to the correct technology for the building and maintenance. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=904 A new energy bill has created a carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiative, tipped to support the creation of demonstration projects and future funding. Introduced in parliament yesterday (November 20th), it will also contribute to the research and development of clean coal technologies, which energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband said could eventually bring up to #163;4 billion a year into the UK economy. The bill is also aimed at supporting disadvantaged consumers with their fuel bills in a bid to help all households adjust to the shift towards a low-CO2 future.Mr Miliband said this would help residents adapt their habits to changing energy markets. `It will ensure that consumers can be confident that British energy is sustainable and secure,` he explained, adding: `[The transition] will be a challenge but this bill will allow us to ... make the shift fairer for all.` According to the Carbon Trust, businesses could also stand to benefit from environmentally friendly retro-fitting and information.The organisation estimated they could save #163;2.5 billion a year through upgrades and information. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=901 Creating a global network of `Climate Innovation Centres` in which wealthy nations could share their low-carbon technologies with developing ones should be a priority, it has been suggested.The UK`s Carbon Trust and the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi will present this idea in the November issue of National Resources Forum: A United Nations Sustainable Development Journal. Head of international development at the Carbon Trust Cath Bremmer said certain nations had a responsibility to share their skills in the collective fight against global warming.`Through Climate Innovation Centres we would create collaborations between countries so that companies with new climate change solutions receive support to develop and test their technologies to meet the local needs,` she explained. Last week, the Carbon Trust announced they would be advising South Korea - the ninth biggest CO2 emitter in the world - to reduce its carbon footprint. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=902 Climate change and recent warm summers have been cited as a factor for the accelerating ice cap mass loss in Greenland.Jointly authored by Professor Jonathan Bamber of the University of Bristol, a new study in the Science publication found the ice sheet in this region is disappearing at an increasing rate.From 2006 to 2008, 273 cubic kilometres of water vanished - representing an annual global sea level rise of 0.75 millimetres annually. Overall, there is enough water in the ice sheet to cause the planet`s sea level to go up by a total of seven metres.Professor Bamber said the research - conducted via satellite observations and a regional atmospheric model - demonstrate that Greenland`s mass loss has been accelerating for over a decade.`The underlying causes suggest this trend is likely to continue in the near future,` he added.According to official figures from the country`s tourist organisation, temperatures in Greenland do not exceed 10 degrees C, even in high summer. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=899 An industry figure has warned of ambiguously positive research findings being allowed to take the pressure off lawmakers. Toddington Harper, managing director of LowCarbonEconomy.com responded to reports of the ocean having a greater CO2 absorption capacity than previously believed by urging caution. He feared reports from Bristol University suggesting the ocean absorbed much more CO2 than thought would have a negative effect on government efforts to fight climate change. `I wonder why such a controversial report has been published at this time,` he commented, adding: `The worst thing to happen now would be for anybody to take [the] pressure off. That is very dangerous.`The author of the study Dr Wolfgang Knorr also said his data should not have any impact on climate negotiations, as there were `uncertainties in the data`. Mr Harper pointed out that even if findings that the sea was an unbeatable carbon sink were true, there would be many other factors to consider. Bleached corals and increased acidity could be a few unanticipated by-products of allowing the ocean to consume unlimited CO2 output. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=900 The companies of the future - who may be using carbon credits to help them achieve their CO2 emissions reduction goals - will need IT upgrades to be truly energy efficient, it has been suggested. Nick Robinson, technical operation lead at Cisco, said the technology businesses need to reach their targets is already in the development pipeline. The coming years should see IT being integrated with office management systems to allow organisations to supervise their output. `It will have a massive impact on how buildings consumer energy,` he explained, adding that this area represented a research and development priority for Cisco. Mr Robinson went on to note this would be a needed service as some 5,000 UK companies will be affected by the carbon reduction commitment legislation due to come into effect in April of the coming year. Known as the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme, it will impose a cap-and-trade mechanism and reward good performance. It will also rank participants and as Mr Robinson said: `If you are advertising yourself as being a green business ... you don`t want to be appearing at the bottom of that list.` Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=897 A comprehensive record detailing the temperature fluctuations of the last decade in the US has provided physical evidence of global warming, scientists have said. Investigators at the National Center for Atmospheric Research, along with other organisations, compiled registered temperature shifts from the past ten years and found the number of record highs outpaced the record lows. Lead author Gerald Meehl said: `Climate change is making itself felt in terms of day-to-day weather in the United States. The way these records are being broken show how our climate is already shifting.` The model that resulted from their studies also predicted that if no fundamental changes are made, temperatures will increase an estimated twenty-fold by 2050. Findings were compared to the overall trends gathered from the last six decades. Research from Georgia Tech recently posited that half of the global warming that has occurred in the US since 1950 is down to alterations in land use and deforestation. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=898 A new computer model could be instrumental in leading the energy efficient future of the transport sector. The Spatially and Temporally Resolved Energy and Environment Tool, or Street, could help structure low-carbon vehicle research and development as well as public policy, its owner has claimed. Shane Stephens-Romero asserted his model was sophisticated enough, for example, to calculate all the criteria necessary to predict what impact a 75 per cent switch over to hydrogen fuel cell cars would have on the environment in the state of California. He said Street takes into account the total carbon footprint of this fuel`s creation and transport and could calculate what percentage of total vehicles would need to be run on alternative fuels in order to get carbon emissions down to a desired level. The electric car industry is one sector that could stand to benefit from this type of technology.Manufacturers have recently come under criticism from EU lobby group Transport and Environment for claiming their vehicles were zero emissions.The organisation asserted such cars were not truly carbon neutral once the CO2 output created by their fabrication and transport was taken into account. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=895 It is renewable energy - but not as we know it.A global pool of engineering talent has produced seven new wind turbine prototypes tipped to make a difference in the push towards power diversification. New designs featured on Carbon Trust`s shortlist following an international competition include floating turbines anchored to the sea bed and tripod structures that look like spiders. The goal was to offer an innovative take on a wind energy solution that could contribute to overcoming the main challenges facing the goal of getting 15 per cent of power from renewable sources by 2020 - one of which is cost-effectiveness. Director of the marine estate at the Crown Estate Rob Hastings applauded the results as a step forward in the renewables project. `The Crown Estate ... hopes that these new designs reduce capital and investment costs required to deliver offshore wind as an alternative, secure energy supply,` he commented. Among other obstacles currently being worked on by scientists and engineers is the problem of how to keep turbines from disrupting aviation radar signals. The Department of Energy and Climate Change recently gave #163;5.15 million towards research in this area. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=896 Soon, any homeowner, business or any other organisation may be able to pursue their own renewable energy solutions to reduce their carbon footprint.Housing and planning minister John Healey introduced proposals this week that, if accepted, would see any home bypass the red tape of local planning to install on-site wind turbines or charging stations for their electric cars. Mr Healey relayed research findings that half of the UK#146;s CO2 emissions came from buildings and for this reason any owner had to feel encourage to offset their carbon output in the most effective way possible.`The people who want to greenproof their homes should get a helping hand, not a stop sign,` he added. His department is hoping to compensate for the loosening of local authority regulations with strict guidelines concerning size, visual impact, location and noise levels. Energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband recently voiced a similar proposal and called on government officials to overhaul planning procedure. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=893 The world must become carbon neutral by the end of the century or face `dangerous` climate change, Met Office research has suggested. Scientists based their models on `widely acknowledged` intelligence identifying a two-degree C rise in global temperatures as being the most the earth is allowed without suffering serious environmental upheaval. The findings represent the culmination of five years` worth of research, revealed at a climate change symposium in Exeter this week. Director John Mitchell said: `This latest research emphasises the necessity to make drastic cuts in emissions as quickly and as soon as possible if we are to avoid dangerous climate change.`He went on to remark the findings also highlighted the importance of the upcoming Copenhagen negotiations. Recent Met Office studies recently found that if carbon emissions continued to rise unchecked, global temperature could increase by four degrees C within the next 90 years. Head of climate impacts Dr Richard Betts said that well before this deadline, those alive today would experience the effects of `major climate change`. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=894 Oceans as carbon sinks are becoming less able to absorb emissions because of rising acidity levels, scientists have discovered. Columbia University researchers found its ability to take in CO2 had already declined by ten per cent since 2000 and this trend was set to continue.Lead author Samar Khatiwala said this should serve as a wake-up call to those who were depending on carbon sinks such as oceans and forests to take the pressure off the need to change. `What our ocean study #133; suggests is that we cannot count on these sinks operating in the future as they have in the past and keep on subsidising our ever-growing appetite for fossil fuels,` he asserted. Scientists at the University of East Anglia recently called attention to the gap in knowledge concerning these carbon sinks.They found that the rate of CO2 output was far outstripping its rate of natural absorption and should in no way be considered a way of offsetting. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=890 Despite the predicted slowing effect of the global financial crisis on CO2 emissions, recent research revealed these grew by two per cent in 2008.Scientists at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organsiation (CSIRO) and the Global Carbon Project discovered that although output had lessened because of the economic setback, it was still increasing. CSIRO`s Dr Mike Raupach warned that following recovery, the growth was on track to get worse.`The current growth in carbon dioxide emissions is closely linked to growth in gross domestic product,` he explained. He went on to confirm the current rate was dangerous.`Emissions [are] continuing to track close to the worst-case scenario of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change,` he warned. Dr Raupach recommended accelerating the `global effort` to reduce CO2 output.Also included in the research findings was the realisation that carbon sinks were not as effective as other recent studies had made out. Bristol University had published a report suggesting the oceans and forests were much better at absorbing carbon than previously thought. However, the lead author Dr Wolfgang Knorr stressed the results should not be interpreted as an excuse for relaxing on the matter of reducing emissions. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=891 Carbon sinks should not be used as a rationale for slowing the global efforts to reducing CO2 emissions, scientists have pleaded. Researchers at the University of East Anglia said it was currently unknown how much carbon oceans and forests were able to absorb - and for this reason they must not be interpreted as a helping hand in the fight against global warming. University of East Anglia professor Corinne Le Quere said this was a priority area of study so that countries could effectively quantify the effectiveness of carbon offset efforts. `The only way to control climate change is though a drastic reduction in global CO2 emissions,` she explained. Her comments followed the publication of the university`s research suggestion carbon output from fossil fuels had risen by 29 per cent since 2000. Managing director of LowCarbonEconomy.com Toddington Harper recently echoed the opinion that relying on natural absorption of CO2 emissions was highly irresponsible.He pointed out the effect of all this intake on sea life was unknown. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=892 A new molecular blueprint has identified the worst offenders for climate change - and it is not necessarily carbon. Nasa, in conjunction with Purdue University, discovered that certain chemicals have a greater ability to trap radiation within the earth`s atmosphere, thus contributing to global warming. Fluorine, chlorofluorocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorcarbons, sulfur and nitrogen fluorides are the greenhouse gases (GHGs) that stood out for their impact. Co-author professor Joseph Francisco noted these were all mainly industrial chemicals.He said this research, because it identifies the biggest offenders on a molecular level could be used to test new elements before they go on the market. They went on to explain that what makes carbon emissions the most worrying was their sheer quantity as opposed to these other GHGs, which are very harmful but commonly created in smaller amounts. However, scientists at Michigan State University recently warned that more of these chemicals might unwittingly be created through the harvesting of biomass for biofuels in the future. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=889 Previous studies had estimated it took ten years to change over, but professor William Patterson at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada said it was much more `sudden`. `It would be the equivalent of taking Britain and moving it to the Arctic over the space of a few months,` he explained. And the culprit was climate change - the melting of the ice barrier containing an inland sea that once covered much of Canada. The bursting of the freezing reservoir and its resulting changes to ocean temperature and salinity disrupted the Gulf Stream - which is responsible for bringing warmer weather to much of the northern hemisphere. One year may have sufficed to plunge the world into a 1,300-year-long ice age - and scientists suggest the melting of the Greenland polar cap could do the same. Recent research from the University of Bristol has suggested this glacial sheet should be thawing at a faster rate than previously thought. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=887 US president Barack Obama expressed pessimism in regards to world nations` ability to establish binding CO2 emissions caps in time for the Copenhagen summit. During a meeting in Singapore, he said countries` should postpone `unrealistic` limits and aim instead for a broader political agreement.Host Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Denmark`s prime minister, pitched a deferral strategy along these lines, saying it was not too late to plan for generalised targets and commitments. `Given the time factor and the situation of individual countries we must, in the coming weeks, focus on what is possible and not let ourselves be distracted by what is not.`Extending the deadline could give Barack Obama time to get the two-thirds senate majority he needs to get proposed US cap-and-trade legislation ratified. However, Sky News quoted energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband as being critical of this type of compromise.`A political commitment without number is not satisfactory,` he allegedly said. Whatever is agreed upon or discussed in Copenhagen will be picked up again in Mexico in 12 months` time. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=888 A EU carbon credit loophole could mean the rise of electric cars could actually increase CO2 emissions, a study has suggested. New research from European lobby group Transport and Environment has asserted there are two legislative factors that could mean more energy-efficient vehicles may contribute to climate change more than fight it. Firstly, when the EU was drawing up carbon targets last December, it allowed for the inclusion of `supercredits` - which mean manufacturers can still sell gas-guzzling cars as long as they offset this by offering electric autos. Secondly, as these vehicles use electricity that often comes from coal, they do not merit the label of having zero emissions they have been given in the credit scheme. Director Jos Dings said: `The game for policymakers is cutting emissions and reducing our dependence on oil, not promoting electric cars. The EU must not take its eye off the ball again and get distracted by technological hype.` In response to the report, the chief executive of Liberty Electric Cars Barry Shrier said the alternatives deserved to be favoured because they were cleaner. The Guardian`s Business Green quoted him as saying these vehicles could achieve near CO2 neutrality once the electricity sources were decarbonised. Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=885 Including the use of biofuel in the EU`s carbon emissions reduction contingency plan is a serious mistake, a lobby group has warned. Transport and Environment has said the current blueprint for achieving the recommended ten per cent CO2 output cuts by 2010 is deeply flawed for its dependence on biomass - but it is not too late to turn it around. In a report published this week, the organisation revealed that the conversion of land necessary to produce enough raw material for this type of energy might in itself do more harm than it would offset. The group pointed out that preliminary EU studies on the subject had not taken into account the ecological impact of an `unprecedented increase in the intensity of farming` biofuel dependence would entail. Research from Georgia Tech recently revealed findings suggesting some 50 per cent of the global warming that has already occurred in the US may have been down to the kind of land use change Transport and Environment is talking about. Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=886 Conserving green areas could be a more important element of carbon offsetting than previously believed, research has suggested. Scientists at Georgia Tech discovered areas that have suffered the most from severe warming are the same ones that have seen trees and greenery largely disappear since 1950.Author Brian Stone relayed findings suggesting as much as half of the climate change that has occurred in the US could be attributable to shifts in land use.He urged legislators to complement laws introducing cap-and-trade techniques and carbon credits with wide-scale conservation efforts including the planting of trees in urban areas to act against what he calls the green loss effect. Mr Stone also said ecologically sound architecture might also be an important factor in the fight against global warming and as such, local governments had a big role to play. In the UK, energy and climate secretary Ed Miliband recently urged law-makers to loosen up the planning processes to allow communities to fast-tracked environmentally friendly housing projects. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=883 Past incidences of global warming may have be the cause of centuries-long droughts in California, research has suggested. Climate models developed by scientists at University of California-Davis linked the thawing of Arctic ice caps with long dry spells.They did this by studying 20,000-year-old stalagmites, which co-author Isabel Montanez said are similar to the rings of a tree in their capacity to store environmental information. Although the connection between the two bodies is indefinite, their studies suggest the melting of the polar permafrost shifts high-altitude winds north, moving rain away from California. Ms Montanez noted: `If there is a connection to Arctic sea ice then there are big implications for us in California.`The melting of the polar ice caps would have other implications including sea level rise and a rise in carbon emissions.Scientists at the University of Alaska recently released findings suggesting thawing could release nearly one billion tons of CO2 that has been stored for the past millennia. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=884 Assigning carbon rationing on an individual level would be the most effective way to fight climate change, the Environment Agency will argue today (November 9th).Chairman Lord Smith will promote personal CO2 credit allocation at the organisation`s annual conference in London.The former culture secretary called this alternative `fairer`, because it would avoid carbon taxes making services such as air flights prohibitively expensive for low earners.Also, it would allow citizens to `judge how they want to develop their own quality of life in a sustainable way`.He is also expected to argue that the scheme would help raise awareness of each person`s carbon footprint and stimulate research and development in low-carbon products. Previous studies from the Institute for Public Policy Research suggested public favour for Personal Carbon Trading could be greater than believed. Lead author of the study Matthew Lockwood said those polled seemed receptive to its transparency and fairness but expressed preference that it be administrated through a `trusted third partner` instead of a government department. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=881 Global warming will have a hitherto unforeseen effect on plant life in arid parts of the world, scientists have discovered. Researchers at Cornell University have proven that climate change will lead to reduced nitrogen content in soil - which will make the earth in dry areas unable to support most life. Lead author Carmody McCalley suggested models designed to predict future weather adjustments be altered to include this effect. The threat of nitrogen escaping from the earth is two-fold, she went on to explain. `We`re on a trajectory where plant life in arid ecosystems could cease to do well,` Ms McCalley observed.But the other risk was of what would happen when this substance began to leave the ground in increasing volumes. This is expected to not only contribute to low-level ozone and pollution but also compound the greenhouse effect that is responsible for heating up the planet. Recent Nasa studies determined that the less nitrogen was present in soil, the slower the rate of plant photosynthesis and the greater the risk of erosion and water run-off. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=882 Onshore wind farms are poised to see a big boost in coming years, it has been suggested. Some #163;1.4 billion worth of loans from HM Treasury, the Department of Energy and Climate Change and the European Investment Bank in collaboration with three UK-based banks has been made available for these initiatives.Chancellor Alistair Darling applauded the move as an `essential` part of building towards Britain`s low-carbon future.`As the government continues to push for a global agreement on climate change at Copenhagen it is even more important that we live up to our responsibilities,` he added. The department today (November 10th) hosted a forum in the city aimed at enabling wind farm developers and banks to begin brokering deals. Aeolian energy recently got another boost from the government in the form of a #163;5.15 million research grant intended to solve the problem of the structures` interference of aviation radar. This is currently the number-one cause of sector projects being deemed unviable, so the success of the study could be instrumental in promoting wind as a power source. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=878 The Scottish government has revealed its Carbon Management Plan, aimed at reducing their CO2 emissions.Developed in conjunction with the Carbon Trust, the scheme is intended to help achieve a 20 per cent cut in output by 2014.Transport, waste and energy will be the main areas to benefit from a slew of new initiatives aimed at fighting climate change. A recent annual report on the environmental performance of the Scottish government was published at the same time as the plan and highlights areas needing improvement. Waste was found to have been reduced and recycling increased, but a six per cent growth in business travel emissions was also registered despite the government using video conferencing more. Minister for rransport, infrastructure and climate change Stewart Stevenson said: `Leading by example extends to the whole of the public sector - collectively we can make a big difference.`The Carbon Trust recently contributed to the fight against global warming by giving #163;18 million in the research and development of clean technologies. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=879 Public sector organisations will be able to take advantage of #163;51.5 million in interest-free loans to reduce their carbon emissions by making use of energy efficient technology. This move is predicted to not only help fight climate change but save the taxpayer some #163;14 million per year. Access to 80 different types of clean technologies to lower CO2 output volumes, including infrastructure upgrades, will be facilitated through the loan. The Carbon Trust said this was an important step in getting hospitals, schools, leisure centres and government agencies on track to sign the Carbon Reduction Commitment this April. Another important aspect of this move is setting a precedent for the rest of the public sector, chief executive Tom Delay explained. `Many organisations have already taken bold action on climate change and we hope their example inspires many more in the public sector to follow suit,` he commented. One body to have recently collaborated with the agency is the Scottish government, which recently unveiled its Carbon Management Plan.The scheme is expected to facilitate a 20 per cent CO2 emission cut by 2014. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=880 Energy and climate secretary Ed Miliband has presented an environmental guideline intended to inform strategy for Britain`s low-carbon future, which included an overhaul of the planning process.The secretary went on to explain making these procedures more agile and responsive was an important part of acting quickly.He made the point that with global warming an ever more pressing threat, the country did not have years to wait before implementing change. Mr Miliband called the current process a barrier, saying: `It serves neither the interests of energy security, the interests of the low-carbon transition nor the interests of people living in areas where infrastructure may be built.`These new measures come on the heels of a parliamentary presentation by a cross-sector coalition including Friends of the Earth and the Town and County Planning Association.Arguing that renewable energy overhaul would start on local government level, the group urged the wholesale reform of the planning process. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=876 Britain is on the right track for honouring its renewable energy commitments and should maintain gas import levels at 2010 levels for the rest of the decade, it has been suggested. Energy and climate secretary Ed Miliband said this while presenting six draft policy statements on energy to the House of Commons. The proposals recommended favouring the `trinity of fuels of our low carbon future: renewables, nuclear and clean fossil fuels`. Mr Miliband explained aggressively investing in these technologies would be necessary to preparing Britain for the years to come. He said: `Change is also needed for energy security. In a world where our North Sea reserves are declining, a more diverse low-carbon energy mix is a more secure energy mix.`Nuclear should be actively pursued, the secretary went on to recommend. This message echoed Mr Miliband`s recent announcement that with the three potential new nuclear operators currently poised to entre the UK market, the future could see all 26 million British homes powered with coal-free energy. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=877 A total of 18.61 million bids were received for Britain`s auction of 4.2 European Union carbon emissions credit permits, Reuters has reported. The government raised some #128;59.64 million (#163;36 million) for the UK Treasury.Yesterday (October 5th) was the seventh auction at the permits, called EU Allowances, were evaluated at #128;14.20 per tonne by France`s BlueNext exchange BNXCO2-2. Since last November, the news source revealed, the government has auctioned off 29 million such units - and is planning to sell some 48.4 more from now to April 2011. In related news, the European Climate Exchange body has dismissed as `misguided` allegations by Friends of the Earth that the rapid expansion of the carbon market could lead to a collapse resembling that of the sub-prime financial implosion. Chief executive officer at the EU agency Patrick Birley was quoted by Greenwise Business as saying: `Carbon trading is a very simple and transparent activity that is conducted in the UK on a regulated exchange and is under the supervision of the Financial Services Authority.` Fri, 6 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=875 The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has signed up to the 10:10 campaign and pledge to cut carbon emissions by ten per cent in 2010. Minister Joan Ruddock said this move was an important element of setting an example for other bodies and individuals to follow. `DECC is cementing its leadership role in championing energy efficiency,` she explained.She went on to note it was an important part of communicating the UK`s commitment to the fight against global warming to other world governments. DECC highlighted the improvements it has already made. Among these is a reduction by 90 per cent of its gas use and electricity by 22 per cent. The 10:10 campaign was inaugurated last month and has since recruited businesses, government agencies, celebrities and communities to the cause. Its stated its aim is `to unite every sector of British society behind one simple idea: that by working together we can achieve a 10 per cent cut in the UK`s carbon emissions by 2010`. Fri, 6 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=874 The impact of air pollution on childhood asthma proven by a recent study suggests climate emissions have a serious impact on young people`s health. Researchers at the University of Southern California discovered nine per cent of these breathing disorders in youths could be attributable to transport-related fumes. Children who grew up in proximity to pollutant output were much more likely to contract the illness, as well as asthma-related bronchitis, principal investigator Dr Rob McConnell found. `These results [show] a much larger impact of air pollution on ... healthcare than previously appreciated,` he explained. Dr McConnell went on to explain that often the most severe cases were the ones that resulted from living near a road - a discovery he said was `remarkable`. Recent research from the University of Michigan also found that exposure to these airborne pollutants could contribute to heart disease. The report partly drew on research studying the morality rates in Salt Lake City before and after the closing of a nearby steel mill. Thu, 5 Nov 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=873 Businesses should take advantage of current economic climate to cut CO2 emissions, it has been suggested. Deputy director of the Aldersgate Group Andrew Raingold suggested following today`s cost-cutting trends could be a good way to prepare for a low-carbon tomorrow. Being proactive about moving into a more energy-efficient future was the only smart move today because `it`s going to happen anyway`, he asserted. `It`s just a question of how quickly and the quicker the transition the greater the benefits in terms of businesses grasping the low-carbon opportunities,` he explained. Mr Raingold said this would happen fast mainly because of how ambitious government targets of an 80 per cent cut by 2050 are. His comments came in response to the publication of a study by Institute of Public Policy Research warning that unless the British workforce became more climate ready, it could find itself unable to compete in tomorrow`s global economy. Among points made in the paper was that businesses need to be environmentally aware. Thu, 5 Nov 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=871 Peterborough Renewable Energy has received a green light from the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) for a new plant at Storey`s Bar Gate. The centre will generate 80 mw of clean power from biomass and waste - including glass, plastic and metal.DECC minister David Kidney said initiatives such as these were needed in order to get on track to meeting the government`s carbon emissions targets. Goals include getting 15 per cent of power from renewable sources by 2020 - and Mr Kidney said biomass could be expected to account for as much as a third of that. `This plant will provide reliable, low-carbon energy for years to come,` he commented, adding: `Meeting our target means we have to follow the east of England`s example and build more plants like this.`A recent study from the University of California in Merced suggested biomass could be a more effective fuel than ethanol. Thu, 5 Nov 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=872 Disney has announced it wants to participate in the battle against climate change.The company has begun by contributing some $7 million (#163;4.2 million) to forest conservation projects - a move that is expected to keep nearly four million tons of CO2 emission from being released into the atmosphere. Peru and the Congo are two countries that will see existent woodland areas conserved or added to. Biological diversity as well as reducing carbon emissions is said to be the priority for Disney. According to chairman of Conservation International Peter Seligmann, this commitment `represents the largest single corporate contribution ever made to reduce emissions from deforestations`. The company claimed these projects are part of a move towards eventually becoming carbon neutral - meaning they will offset their CO2 output.In 2007, it created a department dedicated to inventorying greenhouse gas emissions generated by corporate activities.The following year, global employees of the firm were recruited into the Green Standard Programme, designed to encourage eco-friendly behaviour on the part of Disney workers. Wed, 4 Nov 2009 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=869 Organisers of the 2010 winter Olympics in Vancouver are aiming to offset all of the CO2 emissions generated by the event - all 268,000 tonnes of it. The Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) revealed it was already on track to compensate for the 118,000 tonnes of output directly linked to the games.Now it is requesting cooperation from the hundreds of spectators, media and sponsors planning to attend to cover indirect production. Reuters gave the example of what kind of collaboration this would entail.The news agency revealed that to send one of their reporters from London to Vancouver to cover the 17-day event would produce some 2.5 tonnes of CO2 - and they would need carbon credits worth about #163;35 to offset it.British Columbian minister of state for climate action John Yap said he hoped the efforts would set an example.`The Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will ... establish a carbon neutral legacy for future games,` he commented. Wed, 4 Nov 2009 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=870 Global warming may be having an affect on deep marine life, studies have suggested. Researchers at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) found various transformations have already taken place on the ocean floor due to climate change.Among factors provoking biological upheaval thousands of metres below the waves are shifts in wind-driven upwelling, delivery of nutrients via dust storms and the depth at which surface water mixing occurs. The report detected big changes in fish population, with certain species in number doubling - while others disappear.As one of the first investigations into this unique ecosystem, a lack of background knowledge means the precise cause of these organic fluctuations remains largely unknown. The authors called attention to the need for further research so as to amend the oversight of not including deep-sea carbon cycling in current climate models. Another side effect of global warming causing concern in the scientific community is that of oceanic acidification. The University of California in Santa Cruz has been investigating how changing chemical levels is impacting marine life and has already revealed that shellfish have been negatively impacted by this phenomenon. Wed, 4 Nov 2009 14:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=868 The famous snows of the Tanzanian ice fields of Kilimanjaro could disappear in the next two decades, research has shown. Scientists at Ohio State University found evidence indicating the glaciers have not been this affected by climate change in the past 11,700 years.It was also determined that 85 per cent of the ice had gone between 1912 and 2007.Paleoclimatologist Lonnie Thompson said studies at Kilimanjaro demonstrated the same reactions as other geologically similar features - and this was a cause for concern.`The fact that so many glaciers throughout the tropics and subtropics are showing similar responses suggests an underlying common cause,` she explained.Dr Thompson went onto say the changes were attributable to the effects of global warming and that they appeared to be speeding up.Indeed, research revealed that 26 per cent of the ice that was present in 2000 when the studies began had disappeared by this year.Recently, investigation into the geological history of the Greenland ice sheet gave scientists at the University of Copenhagen a new insight into how sensitive frost bodies are to temperature changes. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=865 Climate change is causing many types of fish - many of which are commercially and culturally important - to flee towards the northern hemisphere, scientists have found. Researchers from the US National Marine Fisheries Service found stocks such as cod, haddock and several types of flounders were leaving the American coasts and heading towards Canada. Co-author of the study Janet Nye explained: `During the last 40 years, many familiar species have been moving into [cooler or] deeper waters than where they traditionally have been found.`She added: `They all seem to be adapting to changing temperatures.`Ms Nye went on to predict this phenomenon would become more marked as waters continued to heat up. This would have a noticeable impact on restaurants and markets, which would see many popular fish become unavailable. Data from as far back as 1850 was analysed to give the researchers a balanced perspective. Recently, a study from the University of Copenhagen predicted `large extinction events` of marine life caused by global warming. Scientists predicted `long-term ocean oxygen depletion in response to CO2 emissions from fossil fuels`. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=866 The homes of the future could have a smaller carbon footprint following a government initiative to encourage housing construction with renewable materials. A grant from the Department of Energy and Climate Change worth #163;5 million has been earmarked to promote the building of residential property that is both affordable and environmentally sustainable. Minister Joan Ruddock said: `The new homes of the future ... will use less energy and keep heat in. By reducing carbon emissions in this way we can help to prevent dangerous climate change from happening.`Three housing projects of nearly 200 residences have already been conceived to `educate` developers on using new materials - such as hemcrete, hemp insulation and timber frames.Among other features of the changed properties will be smart meters, designed to track energy use.Consumption and CO2 output will continue to be monitored after residents move into the houses. The department recently announced the investment of #163;20 million in the research and development of innovative energy efficiency techniques. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=867 The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has claimed cuts in public spending could menace the UK`s carbon emissions targets. Commenting on the results of a report carried out by LEK Consulting on the benefits of investing in construction projects, CBI warned that this should not be an area in which government attempts to save on funding. Deputy-director general John Cridland asserted financing in these areas should be considered a smart decision. `A strong economy needs fit-for-purpose schools and hospitals and it will be the construction industry that builds the new transport and energy infrastructure needed to shift to a low-carbon economy,` he explained. Likewise, the government was urged by the chairman of the body`s construction council John McDonough not to slip on investing in young, skilled workers for the future - as they would be in important asset in shaping a more energy efficient future, he noted. The Department of Energy and Climate Change has recently made a series of investments in research and development of carbon offset technologies. Geothermal energy was the latest renewable to get a #163;6 million boost from the government body. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=864 Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Sikh leaders attended a meeting hosted by the Archbishop of Canterbury to take a stand on carbon emissions. These religious representatives - which included members of the Baha`I, Jain and Zoastrian faith - produced a statement addressing their political counterparts on the subject of climate change. In it, the signatories declared there was a `moral imperative to tackle the causes of global warming`. The statement also asserted: `We all have a responsibility to learn how to live and develop sustainably in a world of finite resources.`Addressed to those who will be participating in the Copenhagen Climate Change Summit, which will take place in 40 days` time, the message urged politicians to act in the planet`s interest. In related news, the United Nations has announced it will be sponsoring a 9,000-kilometre rail journey from Kyoto to Copenhagen. Likewise, some 400 negotiators and campaigners will be arriving in the Danish capital by the `climate express` train from Brussels. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=862 With around two months to go until the Copenhagen summit, some 180 nations are meeting in Barcelona this week with the goal of producing a workable proposal to structure the global fight against climate change. As a basis for their negotiations, they have a 180-page document, created during previous meetings in New York and elsewhere. However, as time runs out, key figures such as the German chancellor Angela Merkel have expressed doubt as to whether the countries will be able to agree in time. She was quoted as saying: `It is realistic to say that in Copenhagen we will not be able to conclude a treaty, but it is important to lay down a political framework which will be the basis of the treaty.`Funding has been the main issue and while no amounts have been agreed, the general consensus so far is that half will come from public spending and the other half from the carbon credit market and private investments. Connie Hedegaard, Danish minister for climate and energy, stressed the importance of commitment to carbon targets.`Failure is the only thing we cannot afford.` Tue, 3 Nov 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=863 India is the right place to witness the success of a new version of the UN`s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), it has been suggested. Under the scheme, investors in clean and renewable energy projects are awarded carbon offset credits, which they can then sell on to help other countries meet their CO2 emissions targets. The new version, entitled Programme of Activities (PoA), will employ the same principle but is designed to be more flexible and fast-acting than the original CDM. By grouping similar projects together, PoA is hoped to make up for what Reuters reported was CDM`s main shortcoming - the slow and expensive process of approving single pilots. Chandra Shekhar Sinha, head of environmental markets in Asia for JP Morgan, told the news source: `India`s the best place for PoAs. There`s a lot of hunger to do these renewable projects because they know the government is committed.` The hope is that these impetus will lead to revolutionary developments, which will in turn see those parts of the country that are cut off from the electricity grid benefit from renewable energy. So far, some 398 projects have been registered with the CDM executive board in India alone. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=860 Greenhouse gases (GHG) could be mixing in a way that may be contributing to the acceleration of climate change, scientists have found. Researchers at Nasa discovered that one key interaction involved methane and carbon monoxide, which are emitted from vehicles, landfills, industrial activity and livestock. These were found to be consuming hydroxyl, which is the chemical responsible for producing sulphate - a reactive particle that cleanses the atmosphere of so many pollutants that it is called a `scrubber` in the scientific community. It was discovered by the project model that global methane emissions had caused a decrease of 26 per cent in hydroxyl. This unleashed the former`s capacity for warming by 20 to 40 per cent over current estimates. Co-author Drew Shindell summarised: `More methane means less hydroxyl, less sulphate and more warming.` He added: `Our new findings suggest these gases have a significantly more powerful warming impact than previously thought.` Research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology revealed the threat of accelerated methane gas emissions due to the melting of permafrost in the Arctic region. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=861 Nuclear power will be an integral part of tomorrow`s power sources, the Renewable Energy Centre has claimed. A spokesperson for the organisation said it is safer than it has been perceived and is much cleaner than fossil fuels. `Renewable energy such as wind and wave power will hopefully provide a large contribution but we will also need to rely on nuclear power to cope with energy demands,` she explained to Reuters. Her comments came in response to the publication of a report from the Department of Energy and Climate Change announcing the entry of a third potential nuclear operator on the UK market. This move was accompanied by plans for the creation of new power stations capable of creating up to 16 gigawatts of electricity and meeting the needs of all 26 million UK homes, the department secretary Ed Miliband said. He commented this was `further proof` of Britain`s commitment to a low-carbon and investment-friendly economy. Mon, 2 Nov 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=859 Parliament will today (October 27th) consider changing the planning process to ensure it meets carbon emissions parameters. The proposals are backed by 30 different organisations and will be presented by housing minister John Healey. Members of the Planning and Climate Change Coalition include the Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) and Friends of the Earth, as well as the country`s leading developers. Among desired policy changes would be renewable energy goals for local government, a training programme to educate administrators on climate change threats and the creation of a technical body to oversee progress. TCPA energy policy manager Kate Henderson said building intelligently and sustainably could make a big difference in the fight against global warming. She noted: `The planning system can play a key part in tackling climate change by ensuring we get the right amount of renewable energy [and] by encouraging zero-carbon development.` TCPA chief executive Gideon Amos noted that local government has been showing a positive attitude towards eco-towns - a view he said was necessary to the success of the schemes. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=858 Levels of carbon emissions in the ocean could be harming shellfish, scientists have discovered. Clams, bay scallops and eastern oysters were among the sea creatures studied by researchers at Stony Brook University`s School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences and were found to have suffered the effects of enhanced acidification. Professor Chris Gobler explained during the past century the oceans have absorbed almost 50 per cent of CO2 emissions and that many organisms are very sensitive to this gas. The chemical disruption to their environment could affect their ability to form shells, greatly jeopardising their capacity for survival, he added. Profession Gobler went on to note that if current predictions for CO2 concentrations at the end of the century are proven to be accurate, shellfish could be endangered to the point of suffering a 50 per cent decline in population. Ocean acidification is included in the Stockholm Resilience Centre`s list of key ecological boundaries that must not be crossed because of the danger of irreversible damage. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=856 The UK is on track to miss `by a wide margin` the 2010 carbon emissions reduction goals, it has been suggested. Research from Cambridge Econometrics found Britain will also fall short of the long-standing target of 15 per cent renewable energy use for total power needs by 2020. These shortcomings come despite the discovery that the study found the economic recession should largely contribute to lowering CO2 emissions levels. Co-editor of the report professor Paul Ekins urged greater commitment to targets, saying: `It is imperative for UK credibility in this area that the 2020 targets do not [fail], but this requires strong action soon`. Predicted carbon budget failings for the third period - 2018 to 2020 - were also anticipated, but this could change if Britain increases its current use of renewables. Some policy-makers could be banking on innovated technology development to move energy efficiency projects along. Recently, the Carbon Trust injected #163;18 million of additional funding into this area of research and secretary of state for energy and climate change Ed Miliband has called attention to his department`s commitment to furthering carbon capture and storage studies. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=857 A retired civil engineer has undertaken a one-man fight against climate change - by creating glaciers. By building ten glaciers so far and with funding to make more, Chewang Norphel has saved farmers in the Leh district from the early effects of global warming, according to the Hindustan Times. Over the past 22 years he has reportedly been recruiting the aid of villagers to divert melting water to strategic areas in the mountains. After freezing overnight, these reservoirs will not thaw until summer - when the agricultures below need the resource the most. Mr Norphel told the news source that at age 74 he wished to educate as many people as possible on the technique so that it can continue to serve India`s agrarian community. According to the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the Himalayan glaciers could be extinct by the year 2030 if melting continues at the current rate. They supply an estimated 500 million people in northern India with water, the organisation`s report on Himalayan Ecology reported. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=854 Climate change could cause a further threat to endangered animals, it has been suggested. Penn State University researchers studied the effects of the El Nino-related weather variations on groups of primates. Co-author professor Eric Post explained many of the creatures were dying as a result of atmospheric fluctuation. `The study suggests that the consequences of such intensification of ENSO (El Nino Southern Oscillation) could be devastating for several species of New World monkeys,` he asserted. Among threats were altered vegetative responses that affected primate diet. One year saw the leaves they mature especially quickly - and develop monkey-resistant toxins before they could be eaten because of this. Seed production and flowering rhythms were also among factors that saw significant drops in population during the period of study. Although the cause of El Nino and La Nina warm water currents are not fully understood, they are widely believed to be responsible for the most devastating weather-related dramas of the past decade. Their effects are also predicted to worsen with further global warming. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=855 Sea levels rose three times faster during the 20th century than they did in the previous 500 years, scientists have discovered - and this may have been caused by humans. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania quantified the difference while studying the North Carolina coastline. They also determined the change mostly occurred between 1879 and 1915, which they said suggested a link to the industrial revolution. Lead author Andrew Kemp explained how his team used radio metric isotopes and stratigraphic age markers to record the increase. He also noted this evolution seemed consistent with changes recorded in the Atlantic coast. Among suggestions put forward in the study was that the yearly rise of three to 3.3 millimetres was related to the melting of the Greenland ice sheet. Recently, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released estimations that the ocean could swell up to between 18 and 76 centimetres above current levels. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=851 The United Nation`s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has accepted the full participation of the European Commission (EC) in its meetings. Although the EC will not vote on decisions, it will be able to use its status of enhanced observer to introduce proposals and speak for or against measures. The IPCC agreed to amend its policy on membership rights this week in Bali. Environment commissioner for the EC Stavros Dimas expressed optimism about the collaboration, saying that in the run-up to the Copenhagen summit, the two organisations need to combine their influence. He went on to say the EU had contributed great amounts of funding for research and on different climate cooperation efforts, adding that the IPCC also has an important role to play in combating global warming. `Fundamentally, the agreement that we need in Copenhagen shall be guided by science developed by the IPCC,` Mr Dimas explained. The organisation was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 along with Al Gore to acknowledge their work in raising awareness of climate change. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=852 Some 66 per cent of Brazilians feel fighting global warming should be prioritised even if it is at the expense of economic development, according to a survey. The poll by the Brazilian National Confederation of Industry also revealed some 92 per cent believe that global warming is already happening and 84 per cent are worried about it. In results relayed by press agency Xinhua, the biggest worry for nearly all the respondents was reported to be the destruction of the Amazon rainforest. Brazil will host a summit in Manaus on November 26th that is to be attended by the region`s political and commercial leaders. Drawing up an agreement on carbon emissions reductions to replace the Kyoto Protocol when it expires in 2012 will be on the agenda. They will also discuss how to best present proposals in Copenhagen on reducing deforestation of the Amazon by 80 per cent. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:45:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=853 The Green Fiscal Commission will today (October 26th) unveil the results of a three-year study and propose a new green tax.Some #163;150 billion should be the target and could be achieved by imposing a #163;3,300 levy on new cars as well as a household energy tax. Commission director professor Paul Ekins told Sky News taking this money and investing it in low-carbon technology could be the only way for Britain to catch up to its European neighbours with regard to fighting climate change. `They`ve started to build the kind of competitive #133; businesses of the future that will be absolutely essential for exports and for our own domestic industries,` he explained.Professor Ekins went on to say this move was a vital step in becoming a major player `in a world which is taking climate change seriously`. The argument for this tax will be presented by Mr Ekins as well as Lord Adair Turner, Greg Barker MP (Conservative), Chris Huhne MP (Liberal Democrats) and Dr Alan Whitehead MP (Labour) today at the Portcullis House. Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=849 US president Barack Obama has condemned what he called a `marginalised` population of people who do not believe climate change is a threat. Speaking at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he called attention to the importance of an upcoming congressional decision to formalise cap and trade legislation. `There are going to be those who #133; make cynical claims that contradict the overwhelming scientific evidence when it comes to climate change,` he was quoted by the Associated Press as saying. His comments came in response to findings from a Pew Research Center study revealing 35 per cent of Americans believed global warming to be a `very serious` problem, down from 44 per cent in April 2008. When asked if they thought there existed `solid evidence` of climate change, the respondents registered a drop of 14 percentage points - from 71 per cent to 57 per cent - in those who agreed. Some 17 per cent of Americans believe global warming is `not a problem`, a finding that could potentially influence the US` contribution to treaty formation during the up-coming Copenhagen summit. Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=850 Scientists have revealed information they say could rubbish claims that climate change is a naturally occurring phenomenon. Evidence given in a Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) paper relayed University of Buffalo findings suggested the weather changes mankind is currently experiencing is `unprecedented`. Co-author Dr Jason P Briner explained the discovery of unique glacial sediments that have been able to offer `rare` paleoclimate information registering atmospheric variations over the past 200,000 years. He noted that while warmer spells have previously been part of the earth`s cycle, they were due to `well-understood` orbit patterns - and were nothing like those appearing at the midpoint of the twentieth century. `The whole ecosystem has now shifted and #133; is different from those seen during nay of the past warm intervals,` Dr Briner explained. Global warming, even if hardly perceptible at the moment, could already be contributing to an environmentally different future for mankind.Recent findings from researchers at the Institute for Chemical Bioengineering in Zurich, Switzerland, found that glacial melting was releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere at an `accelerated rate`. Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=848 Reducing carbon emissions is essential but not the final answer to combating global warming - other greenhouse gas emissions must also be tackled, scientists have asserted. University of California Berkeley researcher Stacy C Jackson has called on world leaders to address the contribution of soot, ozone and methane during the upcoming Copenhagen climate talks. After studying the life span and impact of these pollutants, she concluded in a policy piece published in the Science journal that these emissions should also be regulated. She explained: `All the things we have been observing ... suggest that the near term is of concern, in addition to the long term.`Short and medium-lived pollutants account for half of our near-term impact. They are not a secondary source`. Ms Jackson went on to recommend leaders draw up a different treaty aimed at tackling these types of emissions. One source of methane gas that has been worrying scientists is deep sea vents.According to Massachusetts Institute of Technology researcher Ruben Juanes, the melting of permafrost could be liberating this gas - which he said speeds up global warming about 20 times more quickly than CO2. Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=846 India and China have released a signed agreement confirming they will focus efforts on fighting climate change but will not commit to specific caps.The statement expressed the worry that too-strict reduction targets would unfairly affect their respective productive capacities. Both countries demonstrated a united front, with India`s environment minister Jaram Ramesh saying there was `no difference` between their positions on global warming. It was noted the two nations do not believe they should be expected to make as many sacrifices as the first world.`[There are] differentiated responsibilities, in particular that developed countries should take the lead in and continue reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and providing #133; support to developing countries,` the statement read. Among points made in the agreement was the need for help with the technology that could aid them in controlling their CO2 output while maintaining the production rhythm that would allow them to grow. The EU recently offered to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30 per cent by 2020 and 95 per cent by 2050 if the Copenhagen summit sees the creation of a coherent pact on climate change. Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=847 A renewable power source in the form of deep geothermal energy has been tipped by the government as a possible key to meeting carbon emissions reduction targets. Upon announcing the ear-marking of #163;6 million to fund research in this field, energy and climate change minister Lord Hunt said this technology could potentially meet two per cent of the UK`s annual demand. `Deep geothermal energy is an exciting and innovative technology that could provide clean, low carbon and renewable power and heat for the UK,` he added. Lord Hunt went on to note following the lead of the US and Australia in diversifying power supply could help to wean Britain off dependence on imported fossil fuels. The current operating geothermal energy station - the Southampton District Energy Scheme - has been functioning for years and saves an estimated 11,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. Another body to invest heavily in this form of power is Google, which last year ago contributed more than $10 million (#163;6.05 million) to the study of this technology. Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=844 Using biofuels as renewable energy to counter the effects of global warming could actually have an adverse effect, scientists have claimed. Researchers from Michigan State University said current rating systems for CO2 and other greenhouse gases was erroneous and inconsistent.Co-author Phil Robertson said relative legislation should be rethought for this reason, despite how hugely promising using biofuels was as a way of countering climate change. He explained that depending on which crop is used, varying amounts and concentrations of greenhouse gas can be released by using biomass as an energy source. `If we miscalculate the carbon benefits, we may find out later that our policies and practices are counterproductive - that they don`t have the positive impact #133; we want them to have,` he added. However, Princeton scientist and lead author Tim Searchinger said the error was `serious, but readily fixable` - and further research to development quantification techniques was urgently needed. Recently, studies detailing the possibility of using rubbish for biofuel were published by industry experts from the National University of Singapore. Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=845 The European commissioner for the Environment, Stavros Dimas, has welcomed the newly-published conclusions laying out the European Union`s position on climate change going into the upcoming Copenhagen conference. With world leaders due to meet in the Danish capital in December, the European Council has drawn up a number of key points it wishes to see nations discuss. These include the establishment of a new longer-term goal for carbon emission reductions across the EU zone as well as the introduction of revised targets for emissions from the global aviation and maritime industries. Welcoming the development, Stavros Dimas said: `Reaching an international agreement is a formidable political challenge, but we are still on the right track. `And I repeat that it is more important than ever for the EU to assert its leadership role: our citizens want it, and so do our partners in the rest of the world.`These latest conclusions will be further discussed at a meeting of the European Council due to be held in Brussels at the end of this month. Meanwhile, Todd Stern, US Special Envoy for Climate Change has suggested that President Obama may not attend the Copenhagen talks. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 9:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=843 Funding to help deprived areas of London achieve carbon neutral growth and tackle climate change has been announced by Boris Johnson, Mayor of London. The money, which will also have regeneration benefits in east London, has come from a joint investment scheme involving the London Development Agency, the London Waste and Recycling Board and the European Regional Development Fund. Named Jessica - the Joint European Support for Sustainable Investment in City Areas - the investment of #163;100 million aims to not only help the capital city with its carbon emission reduction target but will also create 1,000 jobs in some of the poorest areas of London. `This collaboration ... spearheads the European Investment Bank`s (EIB) strong commitment to supporting sustainable urban regeneration, promoting energy efficiency and cutting carbon emissions in the current financial and economic crisis,` said vice-president of the organisation responsible for policy in the UK, Simon Brooks.A combined initiative between the European Investment Bank, the Council of Europe Development Bank and the Commission, Jessica provides support for regeneration and urban development projects to European Union members. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 9:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=840 The government will be setting an example to the rest of the country by being at the forefront of a major investment programme designed to improve the energy efficiency of its buildings.Of the #163;405 million set aside in the annual budget report to reduce carbon emissions and promote Britain as a leader in eco-manufacturing, #163;20 million will be spent on introducing energy-efficiency measures into central government departments.`We know it`s important to show leadership in this area - if we want everyone else to retrofit their homes, it`s important government buildings also get some treatment,` explained Joan Ruddock, minister for energy and climate change. The aim of the investment is to lower the amount spent within central government on energy bills as well as reducing its carbon footprint. Copenhagen will be the host city of the UN conference in December where a global policy for tackling climate change will be discussed. It will replace the Kyoto Protocol which is set to end in 2012. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 9:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=841 Failing to keep climate change to under two degrees C will have a significant impact on water availability and agricultural productivity, while increasing the likelihood of natural disasters, according to a new map released by the government.Foreign secretary David Miliband, climate and energy secretary Ed Miliband and the UK`s chief scientist Professor John Beddington launched the document at the Science Museum today (October 22nd) just 45 days before international climate change talks begin in Copenhagen.Harmful effects of global warming outlined by the map include extreme temperatures and drought, the risk of forest fire and sea level rise.Mr Ed Miliband commented: `The stakes couldn`t be any higher at the Copenhagen talks in December. Britain`s scientists have helped to illustrate the catastrophic effects that will result if the world fails to limit the global temperature rise to two degrees.` Last week, prime minister Gordon Brown told the Major Economies Forum in London that the problem of climate change must be addressed immediately. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 9:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=842 Although Canadians are working to tackle climate change on a local level, more support is needed in the form of government policies, a former politician has stressed. Charley Beresford, writing for the Vancouver Sun, said that climate change was considered by the majority of Canadian citizens as a `high priority issue`, but this was not necessarily reflected in the actions of authorities. `While some provincial governments are making moves in the right direction, the Canadian government`s performance on climate protection has been very weak,` she explained. Ms Beresford noted that Finland has set a carbon emission reduction target of 80 per cent by 2050 from 1990, compared to just three per cent by 2020 in Canada. She called on the Canadian government to `make a fresh start` in terms of climate change action, starting with the UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen in December. The Copenhagen event will set a new global policy on tackling carbon emissions, which will replace the soon-to-expire Kyoto Protocol. Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=839 The European Union should move quickly on carbon credit trading, it has been claimed. RWE npower`s head of environmental strategy John McElroy was quoted by Reuters as saying the Emissions Trading Scheme was a `very high priority` and should be treated as such. Addressing delegates at the Environmental Finance conference in London, Mr McElroy urged Brussels forward on both developing a common EU platform and phasing out free allocations to high-carbon industries. `We would like to get auctioning by 2011,` he said, adding: `We need access to these allowances to allow us to hedge`. Mr McElroy also accused the EU of dragging their feet on the matter of carbon capture and storage (CCS). He noted that while Britain was ahead of the EU on developing a CCS framework, the United States, Canada and Australia were ahead in the race to achieve the first successful demo on a commercial-scale.Recently, the energy and climate change secretary echoed the opinion that CCS should be a priority area in the years to come. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=837 Scientists have found an explanation in global warming for the mysterious increase of organic pollutants ten years after PCB output regulations saw levels lower.The Swiss Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering has determined climate change has seen glaciers such as those in the Alps melt at a quickening rate and this is liberating persistent organic pollutants, including dioxins, into the air. `Considering ongoing global warming and accelerated massive glacial melting predicted for the future, our study indicates the potential for environmental impacts,` said co-author Christian Bogdal. PCBs, organochlorine pesticides and synthetic musk fragrances were all discovered in glacial sediment in the report entitled Blast from the Past: Melting Glaciers as a Relevant Source for Persistent Organic Pollutants. Many of these emissions decreased during the 1980s and 1990s, which the researchers attributed to regulatory changes and product improvement.However, an upsurge in chemical levels can be determined to have started occurring from the late 1990s. Some of these substances where recently found by researchers at the Rigshospitalet University in Denmark to be traceable in breast milk and linked to testicular cancer. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=838 Aviation radar issues have been largely to blame for the shelving of most of the current wind turbine projects.New research set to begin this week is aimed at solving this problem and is expected to help set the UK on its path of using renewables for a third of its electricity needs by 2020. Energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband announced today (October 20th) that this #163;5.15 million project could free up a five gigawatts of wind energy that was being held up because of these aviation complaints. He said that with the bulk of renewable energy objectives set to come from wind, this research would constitute something of a breakthrough.`We are making very good progress - it took the UK 14 years to build our first one gigawatt of wind and we`ve now passed the four-gigawatt mark, with the last gigawatt added in just a year`. Set to conclude in 2011, a further 5.5 energy units is expected to be liberated during the early stages of development. According to the UK Wind Energy Database, 2,690 turbines are currently operational, producing a total of 3,898.949 megawatts of energy. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=835 Switching to renewable energy sources could reduce the need for energy by two-thirds, researchers have determined. Mark Jacobson, a Stanford University environmental engineer, has teamed up with University of California-Davis researcher Mark Delucchi to publish an optimistic report on the prospects for an energy-efficient global economy. Making the shift to wind, solar and hydroelectric sources would dramatically alter global needs and see 13,000 new or existing coal plants become obsolete. `Just by changing our infrastructure we have less power demand`, Mr Jacobson explained. However, excessive supply would not necessarily be an issue - according to the engineer, the exclusive and effective use of wind energy had the potential to produce five to 15 times more that is needed to charge the entire world. Report findings relayed a belief in the effectiveness of these renewables. An excerpt read: `Given the inherent variability of wind speed and sunshine, can these sources consistently produce enough power? The answer is yes.`Britain already provides the equivalent of 2,180,093 homes with their 2690 turbines, according to the UK Wind Energy Database. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=836 An ecosystem services evaluation has put a value of about $130,000 to $1.2 million (#163;732 million) on each hectare of reef.Diversitas has published the results of findings from research that aims to estimate the financial worth of different biospheres.One of the targets of the Cambridge-based project entitled The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) is to identify the rates of return on investment in conservation.Lead author and economist Pavan Sukhdev noted conserving coral reefs by limiting CO2 emissions could make financial sense - as related services currently have an annual estimated value of $172 billion. Among the more impressive worth-quantifications were rivers. With a cost-benefit ratio of 15.5, these natural features could offer a 27 per cent return on investment - while grasslands could render as much as 79 per cent. In terms of anti-inundation infrastructure, planting mangroves in Vietnam is thought to have saved some $7.3 million in dyke maintenance. According to a recent report from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and relayed by the EU`s press service, a two-degree increase in carbon emissions would see the majority of the world`s coral reefs die off. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=833 Of all the mediums, television may carry the least impact when it comes to raising awareness of the threats of climate change. A study from George Mason University entitled Media Use and Global Warming Perceptions: A Snapshot of the Reinforcing Spirals, revealed exposure through the telly to issues related to CO2 emissions had little to no influence on a viewer`s concern about these issues. Lead author professor Xioquan Zhao said knowledge gleamed through mediums such as newspapers and the web, on the other hand, was more likely to have an effect on the way an individual considers climate change. `Unlike many other social issues with which the public may have first-hand experience, global warming is an issue that many come to learn about through the media,` he explained. Mr Xioquan went on to note that the primary source of exposure to this matter was the news. The professor called for further research to `harness this powerful educational function`. An advert created by the Department of Energy and Climate Change in the UK and first aired last week has, however, targeted the television-watching population.In it, a father tells his daughter of the `terrible` threats of climate change for today`s children. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=834 Yorkshire is set to be an important location in Britain`s drive to reduce its carbon footprint.The European Commission has backed plans to build the UK`s first coal-fired power station in Hatfield, near Doncaster, and it will be equipped with carbon capture and storage technology.Some #163;164 million is to be given as EU funding for the project - and it is thought that the British government will match this figure.Chris Davies, Liberal Democrat MEP, commented on the advantages such technology could have in the region.`A network of pipelines connecting power plants and major industrial installations in the area could allow us to divert 70 million tonnes of CO2 annually within 15 years,` he stated. `Yorkshire is the best location in Britain from which to start CCS development.`Work on the Hatfield plant is due to begin next year and is planned to be completed in 2015.Meanwhile, climate change and energy secretary David Miliband last week said firm targets are needed by a number of countries in order to reduce carbon emissions. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=832 The problem of climate change must be addressed now #150; otherwise it will be too late.Prime minister Gordon Brown delivered this warning at the Major Economies Forum in London and alerted government`s from 17 of the world`s biggest carbon dioxide emitting countries that there is `no plan B`.He pointed out that Britain runs the risk of experiencing frequent droughts and a greater number of floods.It is also possible that the European heatwave of 2003 #150; which killed over 35,000 people #150; could become increasingly common, added Brown, who went on to say an agreement had to be made about how to tackle the issue in Copenhagen this December. He stated: `If we do not reach a deal at this time, let us be in no doubt - once the damage from unchecked emissions growth is done, no retrospective global agreement, in some future period, can undo that choice.`In conclusion, the prime minister urged his fellow leaders to work together and make a decision in Copenhagen. Delegations from 192 countries will meet in the Danish capital in December for a two week summit in an attempt to establish a new global treaty on climate change. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=831 Firm targets are needed from various countries if global carbon emissions are to be reduced, David Miliband is reported to have said this week.The climate change and energy secretary spoke in London ahead of UN talks in Copenhagen, according to the Guardian.He explained that not only does the US need to confirm its position on the effort and commitment to solve this environmental problem, China must also make a `substantial contribution`.The planet`s annual carbon emissions need to decrease by a total of about 30 gigatonnes in the next 41 years, Mr Miliband added.Moreover, temperature increases must stabilise at two degrees C if climate change catastrophes are to be averted.`Numbers are essential at Copenhagen,` he remarked.`We are going all out to get them #133; Targets for 2050 are important, but it`s more important to have near-term targets.`Mr Miliband is also reported to have told the Times that president Barack Obama`s presence in Copenhagen is likely to have a positive effect on the chances of talks reaching a successful conclusion. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=830 The sink of atmospheric carbon dioxide in Arctic lands and seas could diminish and lead to climate change happening at an accelerated rate than predicted, a new study suggests.According to a review paper from the US Geological Survey and the University of Alaska at Fairbanks, this area has been responsible for up to 25 per cent of the planet`s carbon sink since the Ice Age.But recent global warming trends, which are exacerbated in the Arctic, could lead to the region becoming an actual source of carbon dioxide, David McGuire and his colleagues found.Carbon deposited into permafrost could be released at a quicker rate if climate change at the pole continues, the report said.In addition, thawing permafrost would make the Arctic Ocean more increasingly waterlogged and spur the growth of organisms responsible for producing methane - a potential consequence Mr McGuire said could definitely quicken the rate of global warming.`If the response of the arctic carbon cycle to climate change results in substantial net releases of greenhouse gases, this could compromise mitigation efforts that we have in mind for controlling the carbon cycle,` he added. The study was published in the Ecological Monographs journal, which is issued quarterly. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=829 A total of 14 grants have been awarded for the study of climate change and the relationship between humans and the environment.The funding from the US National Science Foundation (NSF) aims to support projects on topics such as Chicago`s ecosystems and sustainable water use.`Research in this programme is leading to a new view of the relationship between humans and complex environmental systems - the systems that support life on Earth,` explained Alan Tessier of the biological science directorate at the NSF.One of the climate change-focused initiatives set to use some of the financing will be led by Julie Winkler of Michigan State University.She plans to use the global sour cherry sector - chosen due to its sensitivity to extreme weather patterns - to create and analyse an international method of undertaking climate change assessments.Meanwhile, recent news from the NSF included the receipt of the national medals for science, technology and innovation.A ceremony at the White House earlier this month saw president Barack Obama award the accolades to various scholars from across North America. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=828 A finance initiative aimed at stimulating energy efficiency projects in the Netherlands has been given the green light.The European Commission approved an updated version of the Dutch Green Funds Scheme, after having initially approved it three years ago.Individual taxpayers who make investments in funds that are at least 70 per cent directed towards supporting green projects can receive exemptions thanks to the deal.This has not changed as part of the new DGFS layout - the commission said amendments were made to adapt the agreement to cover experience obtained throughout the last decade and incorporate developments in policy and environmental technologies.`I am satisfied that the revised Green Funds Scheme will contribute to the EU efforts for a greener economy,` EU competition commissioner Neelie Kroes explained. `The fund has proven in the past an effective catalyst for environmentally-friendly and energy efficient investments in the Netherlands.`In related news, earlier this week saw a statement from the European Investment Bank announce a new #128;10 million credit line designed to enhance environmental projects in French Polynesia. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=827 Road pricing in the UK will lead to energy efficient transport networks at a more effective rate than fuel duty.This is according to Ben Lane, the managing editor of eco-friendly auto information resource WhatGreenCar.com.He said rather than just hike the price of petrol, a nationwide road pricing system is a better idea, as it will decrease the country`s carbon footprint.Mr Lane`s comments follow the publication of a report by the Climate Change Committee, which said mandatory eco-driving lessons, rigid speed limits and tolls should be introduced to help meet carbon emission targets.WhatGreenCar.com is supporting such recommendations, but brought up one potential area of concern.`The one thing that seems to be missing is the investment needed in public transport. It`s one thing getting people out of their cars but what do they get on?` Mr Lane asked.He went on to suggest ay that current public transport networks offered in the UK are poor. Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=826 Energy efficient technologies in French Polynesia will be eligible for financial assistance thanks to a deal signed this week.The European Investment Bank (EIB) announced that a credit line of #128;10 million has been set up with the Societe Generale Banque de Polynesie, aimed at increasing the availability of funding in the sector.In turn, this will hopefully provide the means to respond to a greater consumer demand for environmental services and systems, a statement from the EU said.Overall, the aim is to display the commercial viability of such ecologically-focused schemes and provoke more investment in sustainable development.`Environmental projects eligible for financial assistance under this package include renewable energy, energy efficiency, pollution abatement technology and environmental municipal services,` it was added.At the end of last month, the EIB launched a lending facility for small and medium-sized businesses in eastern Europe.President of the bank Phillippe Maystadt said the move was a crucial step to help stabilise borrowing on the continent. Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=824 Thinking creatively about how to dispose of waste is just one of the ways Britain can face the challenge of climate change.According to John Denham, secretary of state for communities and local government, councils can play a bigger role in this objective by participating in the journey to becoming a `zero-waste nation`.He commented as environment secretary Hilary Benn - who is also the Labour MP for Leeds Central - laid down guidelines and targets to help the country deal with waste. These included six new locations across the country for the development of innovative ideas regarding how to cut down on rubbish in the community.In addition, England needs to reduce the amount of waste it sends to landfill in the next decade by half. And in 2010, a consultation on what substances and materials to ban from these sites will begin.Local authorities should offer complete collection facilities for all recyclable items by 2020, the plans added.`Aiming for zero waste is the way we have to think to get us to where we need to be,` Mr Benn explained. `Using new technologies will help us to reuse things #133; and businesses can apply the technology at their fingertips to design innovative products that use less resources.` Wed, 14 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=825 Brussels has reiterated the need for member states to commit `unconditionally` to cutting carbon emissions to at least 20 per cent below 1990 levels over the next 11 years in the run-up to December`s Copenhagen summit. The United States, Croatia and Turkey were finger-pointed as the only three nations that had failed so far to make a formal pledge. In this regard, the Bangkok agreements have been something of a disappointment in terms of achieving the binding compromises the EU feels is necessary to effective commitment.However, the statement from Brussels did point out that the resulting negotiating text was an improvement on the pre-existing contracts. The memo urged these states to commit to targets in time for the Copenhagen summit, which was called a `rare opportunity for global action`. Also repeated was the will to increase these cuts by ten percentage points if other industrialised nations follow suit. US senator Barbara Boxer was recently quoted as suggesting a climate change bill could be voted through in time for the December date. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=822 Revenue from the European Emission Trading System will contribute to financing the development of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) in the zone. In addition to the #128;1.05 billion (#163;940 million) allotted by the European Economic Recovery Plan, 300 million allowances under the credit exchange framework will go towards financing demonstration projects. At the third ministerial meeting of the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum in London, the EU presented a pack of regulatory and financial guidelines. Meanwhile, the commission has launched an industrial initiative to undertake the construction of approved proposals. The statement from the meetings said this three-pronged approach should be effective in mobilising and deploying this technology as quickly as possible so as to `significantly reduce CO2 emissions from Europe`s power generation`. EU energy commissioner Andris Piebalgs urged dynamism in accelerating the commercialisation of the scheme. `Public authorities must continue to support promoting the development and deployment of CCS technologies if we want to be successful in fighting climate change,` he stated. Secretary of state for energy and climate change Ed Miliband has announced that CO2 sequestration was a prerequisite to the UK continuing to use coal for energy. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=823 The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has called on the government to facilitate the creation of a market capable of driving tomorrow`s low-carbon economy. Director of Business Environment Dr Neil Bentley highlighted the role of the private sector in environmental advances but said they needed an encouraging regulatory framework. There was a will among market leaders to invest in renewables and energy efficient industries, he said.`However, we have already seen cases of firms delaying investment because of uncertainty about government policy,` Dr Bentley noted.CBI needed National Planning Statement as well as regulatory and funding details for projects such as the clean coal demonstration plants.Government, businesses and consumers would ultimately have to all work together to achieve ecological targets, he added. His comments came in response to the Committee on Climate Change`s paper entitled Meeting Carbon Budgets - The Need for a Step Change.The report echoed the call for aggressive policy-making and warned that the recession may have been the cause of the past year`s reduction in emissions instead of a sustainable difference in the UK`s CO2 footprint. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=819 A 2010 deadline for a significant reduction in the rate of loss of biodiversity will be totally missed, it has been announced by scientific think tank organisation Diversitas. Despite having been agreed upon in 2003 by some 123 world ministers, ecological changes in the biosphere have continued to accelerate, Georgina Mace of Imperial College, London said. Ms Mace noted that not making good on this commitment implicated the failure to meet other targets, such as the UN Millennium Development Goal to improve the lot of the world`s most vulnerable by 2015.`It is hard to imagine a more important priority than protecting the ecosystem services underpinned by biodiversity,` she said. However, she added: `The situation is not hopeless #133; meaningful action should have started years ago [but] the next best time is now.`Recent research from the US department of energy found that dwindling biodiversity would cause global warming predictions to be worse than previously thought. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=820 Results from an adapted climate change model have suggested global warming could occur faster than originally anticipated.The US department of energy`s study incorporated the nitrogen cycle for the first time into a global carbon cycle simulation model and found rates could be accelerated due a changing biosphere. A previous failure to consider plant nutrient requirements had warped the predictions, lead author Peter Thornton explained.He noted a lower volume of plants and a higher rate of decomposition of existing greenery due to higher temperatures would in turn contribute to a higher concentration of atmospheric CO2 emissions. Not only is this new outcome tracking more complete, but it is more precise, Mr Thornton asserted. `We`ve shown that if all of the global modelling groups were to include some kind of nutrient dynamics, the range of model predictions would shrink.` In related news, the European Commission has called on member states to agree on a unified smart metering system to better track state-by-state emissions by 2010. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=821 High levels of denial among the general population in regards to global warming has called for public education campaigns, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has claimed. A survey revealed only one in five (18 per cent) of respondents believe the phenomenon will have an effect on the next generation`s lives. `The results show that people don`t realise that climate change is already underway and could have very severe consequences for their children`s lives,` energy minister Joan Ruddock asserted.Fewer than half (48 per cent) believe they can do something to contribute to changing it, which Ms Ruddock condemned as being damaging.She said that with more than 40 per cent of the UK`s CO2 emissions being linked to individual lifestyle choices, the potential for change here was `huge`. This announcement followed DECC`s publication of new guidelines for businesses to reduce their emissions. One of the new measures to be adopted from 2011 is the mandatory trading of carbon credits. Fri, 9 Oct 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=818 Global warming is set to trigger a major shift in fishing sources - which could provoke a food shortage crisis in tropical areas, a study has found. Researchers at the University of British Columbia and Princeton discovered lower latitude regions would suffer a drop of up to 40 per cent in catch potential, a shortfall that could be potentially grave for these populations. Lead author William Cheung said: `Many tropical island residents rely heavily on the oceans for their daily meals. These new findings suggest there`s a good chance this important food source will be greatly diminished due to climate change.`This is the first major study to examine the potential effects of global warming on ocean food supply. Shifting distribution patterns could, however, benefit high-latitude countries - which could see catch increase by 30 to 70 per cent. By 2055, nations such as Norway, Greenland, Alaska and the east coast of Russia would see supply soar while Indonesia, the US, Chile and China would feel the biggest loss in this source. Scientists from Stanford University have also found climate change could contribute to severe crop losses in the world`s poorest regions. Fri, 9 Oct 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=817 The Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme includes plans for making organisations trade carbon credits from 2011. Government guidelines to help businesses reduce their CO2 emissions were unveiled this week by the Department of Energy and Climate Change - and trading was included as a principal element of reaching the goals. Minister Joan Ruddock said the move would be beneficial to all participating bodies. `Large organisations have huge potential to achieve cost-effective energy efficiency savings. There are clear benefits from positive, immediate action to ackle climate change.`Mandatory carbon credit trading will be gradually implemented after companies have spent the 2010-2011 year reporting their emissions.This step is considered important to smoothing the transition to a low-carbon, cap-and-trade future. Businesses are expected to reduce their emissions by 34 per cent of 1990 levels before the year 2020.This will contribute to the wider goal of from the Department of Energy and Climate Change of reducing nationwide emissions by ten per cent in the year 2010. Fri, 9 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=816 A EU investment of #128;50 billion (#163;45.8 billion) will be needed in the next decade to finance low-carbon technologies, the European Commission has stated. This funding - which will necessitate a tripling of annual contributions to alternative energy research and development - will come from different sources both private and public, national and union level. A risk-taking attitude among investors and coordinated political action could be a perfect combination to see a new era of energy efficiency take place, the commission noted. The money would be used for all stages of implementation the roadmaps drawn up with the collaboration of industry and the researching community. A total of six priority areas have been identified - wind, solar, electricity grids, bioenergy, carbon capture and storage and sustainable nuclear fission. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change has called attention to the important role technological development will play in fighting global warming. Fri, 9 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=815 A new tool launched this week launched by the European Commission (EC) aims to provide data and results relating to investment in low-carbon technologies.The internet-based Strategic Energy Technologies Information System (Setis) is designed not just to serve as an accessible source of up-to-date information but to disseminate methodologies widely used to support the EU`s research blueprint, said European commissioner Janez Potocnik.Focused on Ramp;D investment, the analysis encompasses low-carbon innovations proposed as European Industrial Initiatives such as solar power, smart grids and photovoltaics. In addition, it offers interactive tools able to compare production costs and maximum potential for such engineering.`Setis monitors low-carbon technologies and helps determine where best to invest resources and coordinate action in EU interest,` Mr Potocnik added.Also in the news this week was a call from the EC for another #128;50 billion in funding for low-carbon technologies.Mr Potocnik said the finance was needed urgently to make the economy greener, develop new growth areas and ensure the EU`s competitiveness. Fri, 9 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=814 Governments must anticipate the population displacement and global migration likely to be caused by global warming. This is the aim of the Foresight projects from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Research will attempt to predict the impact of climate change on populations. Professor John Beddington, the government`s chief scientific advisor and head of the Office for Science, said the issue was of utmost importance.`A growing and increasingly urban population, coming out of poverty, a changing climate and pressures on land and water mean environmental migration is becoming a pressing policy concern.`He went on to say leading academics and political leaders were actively contributing to the project. A report from the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations in Paris recently posed the question of what would happen to the citizens of a country that disappeared due to rising sea levels. The resulting `ghost states` would engender a host of hitherto unseen difficulties on a cultural and diplomatic level. Fri, 9 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=813 Climate change and energy consumption might be issues people are more aware of if they install a smart meter.This is according to Peter Jenkins, head of communications and public affairs at the Energy Retail Association. He said the products will `revolutionise` consumer attitudes towards power.Not only do smart meters show households how much energy they are consuming in real time, but also mark the end of estimated bills and give people more control over their expenditure.Mr Jenkins added that the gadgets will enable homeowners `to look at their energy use today and compare it with what they used the day before, week before, month before and even the year before`.His comments follow plans from the Department of Energy and Climate Change in May of this year proposing that all homes have smart meters installed by 2020.At the time, department secretary Ed Miliband said it was a large scheme that would require a system able to bring good value for all parties involved. Thu, 8 Oct 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=811 Green roofs could help communities and cities with their carbon offset strategies, a new study claims.Michigan State University found that filling rooftop containers with plants and dirt can remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.Discovery News added that green roofs are able to provide lots of benefits, such as lower air-conditioning and heating costs by providing absorption and insulation qualities respectively.The vegetation can provide habitat for animals and there is also the capacity to cut air and noise pollution, the website said.`Green roofs appeal to cities because they soak up rainwater, making excess storm water less likely to flood sewage systems and inflate sewage treatment costs,` it added.When the study was published, East Lansing newspaper the State News cited it for statistics showing that some 55,000 tons of carbon in an urban area populated by about one million people could be captured by a green roof. Thu, 8 Oct 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=812 The planet has a `50-50 chance` of stopping climate change to make it stabilise just above the increase of two degrees C.According to a new report by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), global carbon emissions need to drop immediately for this to happen.MIT`s joint programme on science and global change policy co-director Ron Prinn is co-author of the study and said the two degrees C limit marks the prevention of some of the more catastrophic climate change effects, such as the disruption of natural ecosystems.But without changes made soon, the global temperature will rise by up to seven degrees C, the researchers found, although even moderate policies and behaviour amendments can make a difference.`Relatively loose constraints on emissions reduce greatly the chance of an extreme temperature increase, which is associated with the greatest damage,` the report concluded.Meanwhile, the Department of Energy and Climate Change recently unveiled new guidance aimed to help businesses monitor and reduce their carbon emissions.The advice is hoped to provide assistance to companies so they can lead the way to a low-carbon economy. Thu, 8 Oct 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=809 Consumers are making big structural changes to their houses to help to reduce carbon emissions.This is according to Michael Holmes, co-presenter of Channel Five`s I Own Britain`s Best Home. He said current trends in the property industry suggest a move towards eco-conscious living.People are much more concerned about the environment and the effects of inefficient equipment, he added, highlighting ground source heat pumps and insulation as tools that can reduce a home`s running costs and carbon emissions.The former is `more energy efficient than using a boiler`, Mr Holmes explained. `That`s quite a significant change.`Recent Lloyds TSB Insurance statistics found that more than a million homeowners undertook work on their properties last year, without using the services of a professional.Mr Holmes` comments follow proposals made this summer by the UK Green Building Council on a pay-as-you-save scheme that would see consumers given loans of up to #163;10,000 for eco-friendly improvements. Thu, 8 Oct 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=810 Arctic ice reduction has had its third highest year on record and scientists have confirmed an overall decline of 11.6 per cent each decade.Nasa satellite images also detected shrinking levels of the thicker kind of ice that is capable of surviving summers. Josefino Comiso, sea ice expert at the space organisation`s National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC), said alterations in the volume could see wide-spread effects.`The oceans are crucial to earth`s climate system #133; if you change ocean circulation, you change the world`s climate,` he explained. Diminishing ice levels will not only have affects on global temperatures but also on sea life.Mr Comiso warned changes could have grave consequences for fishing stock. The comments are based on 30 years of scientific observation, but the expert said further study was necessary to fully understand what is triggering the changes. Director of NSIDC Mark Serreze confirmed the generalised downward trend in Arctic ice volume.`We still expect to see ice-free summers sometime in the next few decades.` Thu, 8 Oct 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=807 Power plants and the burning of fossil fuel could combine with naturally occurring emissions to precipitate climate change, a scientist has claimed. Renyi Zhang, professor of atmospheric sciences at Texas Aamp;M University, said the hydrocarbon emissions typically found in dense clusters above wooded areas and jungles could become potentially damaging when combined with man-made sulphur dioxide.This fog - often called the blue haze for its occasional visible quality - can ultimately contribute a substantial part of air pollution.`The chemistry of earth`s atmosphere can be directly affected by these aerosols.`He added: `It`s a problem that can have global consequences.`The project was funded by the US Department of Energy and was contributed to by the Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, among other bodies. Further research has been called for. Precipitation is another area that can be affected by these particles - and China is one country that may already be seeing this occur. Reports have found that greenhouse gases could cause rainfall in certain regions to be reduced. Thu, 8 Oct 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=808 Newly-published guidance for businesses on measuring and reducing carbon emissions will help them save money.This is according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, which has created the advice in collaboration with the Department of Energy and Climate Change.Organisations will be able to use the tips to set targets and monitor their rate of greenhouse gas emissions.The guidance also goes into detail about what being carbon neutral actually means.Environment secretary Hilary Benn explained businesses have a chance to lead the UK`s climate change objectives.He added that measuring emissions was an important step in doing so.`By reducing them, organisations can save money on energy costs and resource efficiencies - as well as maintaining a competitive edge through strengthening their green credentials,` Mr Benn said.Joan Ruddock, energy minister, also commented, suggesting that UK companies can help to inspire markets in other countries.Meanwhile, the Renewable Energy Association remarked earlier this week on the government`s pledge to provide an additional #163;20 million in capital support for the sector.Communications manager Jemma Robinson said the money was a welcome move, especially for the development of technology in the renewables industry. Fri, 2 Oct 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=806 The main reason why UK carbon emissions have decreased in the last few decades is because of exported manufacturing, an expert has claimed.Professor David MacKay is chief energy scientist for the government and was quoted by the BBC as speaking unofficially in an interview recorded prior to the commencement of his role.According to the news provider, he said the idea of Britain reducing its carbon footprint is `an illusion`.In fact, the country produces fewer emissions because other countries now produce the items that it previously manufactured.`Other countries make stuff for us so we have naughty, naughty China and India out of control with rising emissions - but it`s because they are making our stuff for us now,` he explained.However, a spokesman for the Department of Energy and Climate Change said the generally accepted rule is that emissions from manufacturing belong to the nation that produced them.Meanwhile, earlier this year saw Professor MacKay write an article for the Guardian on large-scale renewables.He said the UK needs an energy strategy that `adds up`. Fri, 2 Oct 2009 16:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=805 Investment in research and development (Ramp;D) in renewable energy products should be a priority area, a specialist has said. Jemma Robinson, communications manager at the Renewable Energy Association (REA) applauded Ed Miliband`s recent announcement that these technologies would get #163;20 million in venture capital support.`Access to finance is a key issue #133; increased investment is urgently needed in order for us to achieve our mandatory 2020 EU targets,` she noted. Funding is required to support emerging technologies as are measures to promote the participation of individuals, communities and businesses, the specialist added. Ms Robinson went on to call attention to the expectations that autumn will bring confirmation of the #163;400 million in European Investment Bank money for this purpose. The #163;20 million allocated is part of a total of #163;405 million announced in the budget to support low carbon initiatives.Within this is #163;90 million set aside to fund carbon capture pilot projects. Fri, 2 Oct 2009 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=803 US industries and power stations could enter a carbon credit trading scheme to achieve a proposed cut of 20 percent in CO2 emissions by 2020 if a new bill is passed. This goal would imply an increase of three percentage points up from the current restrictions of 17 per cent, which were approved by the house of senate earlier this year. Democrat John Kerry, one of the authors of the bill, said he hoped to get it put into motion in time for the Copenhagen summit. `Unless we act decisively, climate change could become a threat multiplier, a lit match on the kindling of an already dangerous world,` he was quoted by Bloomberg News as saying. Companies would be able to purchase and sell emissions credit for the first time. Big polluters such as refineries and factories would be targeted by the law. The bill passed through the House of Representatives with a seven-vote margin. Fri, 2 Oct 2009 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=804 The government`s chief energy scientist David MacKay has told the BBC that figures revealing carbon emissions in the UK had been halved since 1990 were `an illusion`. He said the origin of the miscalculation came from ignoring the percentage of the UK`s carbon footprint that `lives abroad`. Professor MacKay called attention to the hypocrisy of current criticism of certain developing nations.`Other countries make stuff for us so we have naughty, naughty China and India out of control with rising emissions but it`s because they are making our stuff for us now,` he explained. The scientist went on to point out that in terms of historic polluting, Britain was in the top three with the US and Germany. His comments came in response to a recent report partly funded by the Department of Energy and Climate Change, which found harmful greenhouse gas levels had dropped by nearly 50 per cent in the past 17 years in the UK. Fri, 2 Oct 2009 10:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=802 A draft consultation on the cost of adapting to two different global warming scenarios for developing countries has been released by the World Bank. If the prediction of a rise in sea levels is correct, the cost of aiding in a nation`s adjustment to a post-climate change world would be $100 billion (#163;62.6 billion). The `dry` scenario - in which ocean levels would remain where they are - would necessitate $75 billion in aid. Katherine Sierra, the bank`s vice-president for Sustainable Development, said preparation now could be `critical` for the future.`Huge additional infrastructure costs, as well as drought, disease and dramatic reductions in agriculture productivity` are among the spending nations could expect. David Vaughan, a glaciologist with the British Antarctic Survey, recently called for the scientific community to undertake an investigation into whether mankind can expect a rise in global temperatures to cause higher levels of sea water. Analysing bedrock would reveal if it was exposed to the sun 125,000 years ago, when not only was the earth hotter but the oceans were four metres up from today`s coasts. If it was found to have been in contact with the sun`s rays, this would indicate that the ice had melted during that time and a `wet` scenario could be considered likely. Thu, 1 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=801 Foundations are being laid for a voluntary cap-and-trade scheme in China - and the country may do it before the US does, insiders have claimed.Philippe Chauvancy, direct of BlueNext, was quoted by Business Green as saying cap-and-trade schemes could be central to the positioning of the two biggest emitters in the run-up to the Copenhagen negotiations. `I really think China might even get there first,` he said, adding: `They have the money, the resources and the will to do it.`Meanwhile, he predicted a US carbon credit trading programme could need two years to be implemented, partly because of the legislative hurdles of checks and balances in the American congress.However, Mark Kenbar, policy director at the Climate Group told the news source he believed American industry was `waking up to the opportunities` in this new market and could soon be lobbying effectively. President Hu Jintao promised during the recent United Nations summit on environmental issues to cut emissions by a `notable margin` by 2020. Thu, 1 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=799 World leaders have committed to putting $100 billion (#163;62.6 billion) towards meeting carbon emissions targets. Summarising the achievements of the United Nations summit on climate change, secretary-general Ban Ki-moon revealed the commitment among an additional #128;5 billion to #128;7 billion pledged by the EU. Limiting global temperature rise to no more than two degrees C was another goal set #150; although countries that are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change will be pushed to a stricter 1.5 degree C limit by 2020.Mr Ki-moon praised the collective efforts, saying: `We laid a solid foundation toward Copenhagen.`Notable commitments such as Japan`s self-imposed deadline of 2020 to reduce carbon emissions levels to 25 per cent of 1990`s rates were also mentioned, and the director-general called the move `bold and ambitious`. He said next week`s meeting in New York would be an important stage in `building the bridge` to December`s Copenhagen summit. Thu, 1 Oct 2009 8:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=800 India has indicated it will develop nuclear power as a way of cutting carbon emissions. Speaking at a Delhi conference, prime minister Manmohan Singh suggested plans for the country to pursue a nuclear future had come on the heels of a deal with the US. `This will sharply reduce our dependency on fossil fuels and will be a major contribution to global effort to combat climate change,` he reported. Funding was not mentioned but the figure of nearly 500,000 megawatts was set as a 2050 goal. This announcement followed a statement from India`s environment minister Jairam Ramesh this week suggesting the country would not consider limiting production in the name of global warming.He was quoted as saying rich nations should first cut their `lifestyle emissions` before expecting poorer states to compromise their development. India is the sixth biggest emitter of greenhouse gases and is not bound to reduce them by the Kyoto protocol. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:28:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=797 The United Nations climate chief Yvo de Boer has said countries of the Asia-Pacific need extra support as they stand to bear the brunt of the effects of global warming. Bangkok talks should focus on this as a `key element` of any new climate treaty to come out of the international meeting, he was quoted by Agence France-Presse as saying. Mr de Boer called attention to the natural disasters in the region - with the Ketsana storm`s Vietnam and Filipino victims being `the most recent tragic example`.`The impacts are likely to become more intense over time,` he stated.`Reducing disaster risks and increasing the climate resilience is a necessity for this region,` the executive added. Negotiations in Bangkok are aimed at concretising a new climate pact before the international summit in Copenhagen at the end of this year. Reticence among richer nations to commit to aid has been a feature of talks and was recently condemned by the chief US negotiator, Jonathan Pershing.He said developing states would need to see a strong gesture from the first world before following suit. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:28:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=798 Replacing gasoline with a waste-based derivative could reduce global carbon emissions by 86 per cent, new research has claimed.Scientists from the National University of Singapore and ETH Zurich have produced a study suggesting processed waste biomass could be turned into what is called second-generation combustibles, such as cellulosic ethanol.Co-author Hugh Tan said the study - published in Global Change Biology: Bioenergy - had uncovered `a promising clean energy solution`. `If developed fully this biofuel could simultaneously meet part of the world`s energy needs, while also combating carbon emissions and fossil fuel dependency,` he explained. The professor went on to assert this material could become an elemental part of the renewables sector for decades to come. Biofuel was recently used in the Petit Le Mans car race by Yorkshire driver Guy Smith, who told the Press newspaper that despite coming in seventh, he won the race for calling attention to tomorrow`s clean energy needs. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:28:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=795 A recent study calling attention to how harmful air pollutants can travel through the globe has also highlighted the affect global warming will have on known emissions patterns. The US-based National Research Council`s report tracked contaminated air mass as is travelled from the north-west of America to east Asia - in eight days. Co-author and chief executive officer of Aerodyne Research Charles Kolb said these patterns were difficult to quantify but their impact were `significant from regulatory and public health perspectives`. For example, the report estimated a 20 per cent reduction in ozone-harming emissions in the northern hemisphere could save 500 US residents from a premature death due to cardiopulmonary complications. The gaps in knowledge are likely to grow with climate change, the statement said, as altering temperatures will affect patterns of both emission and deposition. Invisible air pollution was recently called a silent killer by researchers at the King`s College London, which estimated 24,000 premature deaths could be attributed to harmful emissions. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:28:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=796 As about a quarter of CO2 is household-generated, local action will be key to reaching emissions targets, the government has said.This is why it is giving #163;10 million to the 20 most energy efficient communities. Energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband said: `We`re searching for communities across the country to kick start the low carbon revolution #133; so that everyone can play their part in tackling climate change`. He went on to note this move would demonstrate the UK`s commitment to battling global warming in the run-up to the Copenhagen summit. Participants will receive expertise and financing from the Carbon Trust and the Energy Saving Trust, among other bodies. What they do with these resources is hoped to become a `blueprint` for other towns in Britain. This measure forms part of the UK Low Carbon Transition Plan.Among the goals included in the guideline are energy efficient makeovers for seven million homes, a 50 per cent reduction in the amount of gas imported, green jobs for more than 1.2 million people and working towards renewable sources for 40 per cent of electricity. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=794 A failure to sufficiently cut CO2 emissions could lead to a four degree C rise in global temperatures by the end of the century, results from Met Office research have shown.Dr Richard Betts, head of climate impacts at the office`s Hadley centre, said this rise would provoke major changes in rainfall, sea levels and land temperatures - some of which could begin to occur during our lifetime. Precipitation could drop by as much as 20 per cent and territories in Africa could see an increase of ten degree C. `Together these impacts will have very large consequences for food security, water availability and health,` he warned.Dr Betts went on to note that a rapid decline in carbon emissions over the next decade could help avoid this scenario. However, improvements may not be felt until some time after changes have been made because of carbon`s long lifespan. Met Office results from their climate change projections also consistently indicate an overall global warming in years to come. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=791 Certain greenhouse gas levels have been nearly halved in the past 17 years in the UK, a report from an environmental consultant group has shown. The study, funded by the Department of Energy and Climate Change, the Scottish Government, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Northern Ireland Department of Environment found that while overall CO2 only fell by 8.5 per cent, other gases such as methane fell by upwards of 50 per cent. Nitrous oxide dropped by 47 per cent during that period, and hydrofluorocarbons went down by 38.7 per cent. The latter drop was attributed to better emissions control at production plants.Increased installation of combined cycle gas turbines in the power generation sector was thought to be the main driving force behind the drop in carbon dioxide. These figures come on the heels of a report from Dr Rajendra Pachauri, chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.He recently told audiences at a UN summit that further rises in current levels of greenhouse gases could lead to an increase of 6.4 degrees C by the end of the century. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=792 A research project could elucidate the concrete risks of the polar ice caps melting due to climate change, scientists have suggested. David Vaughan, glaciologist with the British Antarctic Survey, said the world`s geological history could hold the key to quantifying the danger faced by humanity. He relayed findings from studies indicating that 125,000 years ago, not only was the weather warmer but the seas were four metres higher.Analysing bedrock would reveal if the ice sheets remained solid during that time or if the rise was due to a large collapse in glacial bodies.The former explanation would be a huge relief, he asserted, while the latter is likely to set off alarm bells. In related news, Atiq Rahman, executive director of the Bangladesh Centre for Advance Studies, recently called attention to the menace of global warming on residents of coastal cities. He noted the livelihoods of many people were already being affected by the phenomenon and shared estimates with the Financial Times that 35 million people would be displaced by rising sea levels Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=793 The UK is poised to lead the way on pioneering the carbon capture and storage (CCS) technique, the government has said. The European Commission and government figures from 23 countries will be present at next month`s Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum, which will be hosted by the UK and Norway. Energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband suggested putting regulations in place to harness the potential of this option was a priority.`Without CCS there is no solution to climate change #133; the meeting in London will be a pivotal part of moving the discussion on CCS forwards,` he added. Current projections would have the North Sea floor storing more than 100 years` worth of carbon emissions. A recent research project from the Scottish Centre for Carbon Storage estimated this area could hold at least 22 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide. Professor Stuart Haszeldine, from the University of Edinburgh, responded to the results by urging government officials to build five CCS platforms by 2016. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:44:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=790 London is the sixth worst city for greenhouse gas, a new report has suggested. In an American Chemical Society study aimed at finding out which factors determine a city`s CO2 emissions, the English capital was on the heels of New York City, in terms of per capita. Among substances tracked were carbon dioxide and methane - two that contribute to global warming. Of the ten metropolitan bodies, Denver, Colorado topped the list, with Barcelona coming in at the bottom rung. The causes of this difference are the subject to be explored in a piece due to appear in the Environmental Science amp; Technology journal, which is set to published on October 1st. Among elements studied were heating, transportation, electricity and waste.During this week`s UN forum on climate change, China offered to commit to `aggressive` greenhouse gas reduction targets. Only one Asian city figures in the top ten, with Bangkok coming in forth after a third-place tie between Toronto and Cape Town. Sat, 26 Sep 2009 22:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=788 Shipping industry figures have responded positively to a discussion paper proposing emissions trading scheme to be imposed in the sector. The director for Business Environment for the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Dr Neil Bentley said: `Shipping is an industry which will require a global mechanism such as emissions trading to manage its growth in a low-carbon world.`He went on to say the move would create a `level playing field` between competitors. This point of view was echoed by shipping minister Paul Clark, who said trading carbon credit was the most `effective` way to handle greenhouse gases. Among proposals included in the discussion paper - entitled A Global Cap-and-Trade to Reduce Carbon Emissions from International Shipping - was having 100 per cent of permits auctioned off.Head of Transport at the UK branch of the World Wildlife Fund said this could encourage a positive competitive element between the sector and its aviation counterpart. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently announced industry intentions to halve carbon emissions by 2050. Sat, 26 Sep 2009 22:37:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=789 A statement issued by a group of 28 environmental scientists has outlined nine boundaries, which if crossed could damage the earth beyond repair. Published in Nature, the statement warned humanity was already dangerously close to this point of no return.Johan Rockstrom, director of participating body the Stockholm Resilience Centre, said: `To continue to live and operate safely, humanity has to stay away from critical hard-wired thresholds in earth`s environment.`Boundaries include stratospheric balance, chemical pollution and ocean acidification. Three of these - criteria nitrogen emissions, climate change and biological diversity - may have already been transgressed - which poses extreme threat due to the interconnectivity of the parametres. Current extinction rates are 100 to 1,000 times what could be considered natural, according to the report. The Australian Research Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies also used the statement to call attention to the circumstances of this microcosm.Allowing the CO2 levels to increase would be `hugely detrimental` to millions of people who depend on the biosphere for life, it asserted. Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=787 Investors have a pivotal role in getting world leaders to commit to a shift towards a low-carbon economy, an industry figure has said.Vicki Bakhshi, associate director of governance and sustainable investment at F+C, asserted that a united front among businesses and investors against global warming could be important in the run-up to the Copenhagen negotiations.Decisive legislative action and policy-making would allow these organisations to set the mechanism in motion by unlocking `trillions` of dollars worth of investment to encourage the development of new technologies. Ms Bakhshi expressed the hope that world leaders would make use of the momentum being demonstrated in the commercial and finance sector, which she said `have made their views very clear`. `Investors responsible for some $13 trillion (GBP622 billion) of assets called for a clear policy framework that will commit to a shift towards a low-carbon economy,` she explained. Another sector to call for government-guided reorientation was construction. The director of external affairs for the Federation of Master Builders recently expressed the organisation`s awareness of the importance of re-directing efforts towards more energy efficient practices. Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=786 The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced industry intentions to halve CO2 emissions by 2050.Announced at the United Nations forum on climate change in New York - which is happening at the moment - is in fact a preview of proposals to be put forward at December`s Copenhagen talks.Giovanni Bisignani, chief executive office and director-general of the organistaion, called the targets `tough` and `aggressive`. `Climate change is a global problem. Aviation is a global industry - we need a global approach for this industrial sector if we are to deal with [global warming] effectively,` he added. The current strategy includes improving infrastructure, technology and shortening air routes and will also call on government-level management to make changes.Mr Bisignani noted that the Single European Sky air traffic management programme in Europe, along with NextGen in the US could save up to 41 million tonnes of carbon annually. Air flight activities are currently estimated to be responsible for three per cent of global emissions levels - though traffic is expected to double by 2020. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=785 Despite recent indications that China may not be willing to participate in aggressive cuts in carbon emissions, president Hu Jintao has announced at the UN forum on climate change that a `notable` decrease figured in government plans. Though no specific capping goals were identified, United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon was quoted as saying the president`s admission had made success in the upcoming Copehagen talks much more likely.`Finally, we are seeing a fall in some of the frozen positions that have prevented governments from moving forward,` Mr Ki-moon noted. Global media had been left guessing as to what the country`s position would be after Mr Hu was reported as publicly placing the blame for rising global temperatures on rich nations.Also, the Guardian recently relayed a report from China`s Energy Research Institute.The study concluded that the global reduction target of two degrees C currently being espoused by governments was `unrealistic` for the country. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=784 Renewable energy sources harnessing marine power are being actively pursued, the Carbon Trust has announced. Bidding is open for #163;22 million in finance from the Trust in the framework of the Marine Renewables Deployment Fund. Energy and climate change minister Lord Hunt said these projects were an integral part of government`s response to climate change as the potential for using these technologies was so great in the UK.`[This fund] will help marine projects get off the drawing board and into the water, taking them a vital step closer to commercial viability,` he noted. Research by the Carbon Trust suggests that Britain could lead the global wave power market. One quarter of technological projects currently being developed are in the UK, the organisation reported. A recent event highlighted the need for further investigation when an 80-tonne wave power generator on an offshore trial run capsized off the coast of Suffolk. If salvaged, this device could generate enough electricity to power 60,000 homes. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=783 San Francisco International Airport has become the first airport to sell carbon offset credits from kiosks as well as through the internet. Once passengers determine their verified emission reductions - or how much they should offset based on their flight details - they can purchase units either from the Conservation Fund`s Garcia River Forest Project or the San Francisco Carbon Fund.The former specialises in the protection of native forests as well as in the regulation of sustainable and certified wood products. Passengers who contribute to the San Francisco Carbon Fund would be helping a publicly-owned, ecologically-friendly biodiesel project called Dog Patch Biofuels that is expected to offset as much 660,000 pounds of CO2 within the first year. John L Martin, director of the airport, suggested this was a good way for travellers to take action by reducing their carbon footprint and the establishment would continue to seek out other methods. `This is one of many projects at the airport that will have real, substantive impact on reducing greenhouse gases,` he said.A cap for airline emissions is expected to be pushed for at the upcoming Copenhagen summit. Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=782 Drivers of the Hummer - a high-consumption 4x4 vehicle - have a moralistic defense for using cars that contribute more than others to harmful carbon emissions, a report has suggested. Researchers from the universities of Innsbruck, Wisconsin and York discovered a deep-seated justification in pro-use attitudes towards the controversial vehicle. Findings published in the Journal of Consumer Research registered the presence of American cultural myths based on themes such as the conquering of the frontier and rugged individualism. The authors wrote: `We found that [American drivers of these automobiles] consider Hummer driving a highly moral consumption choice #133; it is possible to claim the moral high ground.`Findings also pointed out the US identity feature of going against the established moral current. This consumer habit had been echoed elsewhere in the new world - Chilean newspaper El Mercurio recently relayed reports revealing that citizens buy more SUVs now than they have ever before. Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=781 Scientists from the German Aerospace Center have unveiled `promising` data on current trends in ozone layer depletion.Diego G Loyola R explained how years of observing atmospheric fluctuations from satellites revealed the improvement. `We found a global slightly positive trend of ozone increase of almost one per cent per decade in the total ozone from the last 14 years - a result that was confirmed by comparisons with ground-based measurements,` he explained. Complementary research from the Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden also identified the years between 1979 and 1997 as when the layer suffered the heaviest damage. The Montreal Protocol - which introduced legislative limits on emissions of the gases causing the thinning - was put into action in 1987. UN group OzonAction recently pointed out how effective the coining of the phrase `the hole in the ozone layer` had been at raising public awareness.Head of the group Rajendra Shende proposed to Guardian writer Jonathan Watts that global warming could be renamed global burning to benefit from the same attention-grabbing power evoked by the 90s term. Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=780 Changing the phrase global warming to something more emotive such as global burning could be more effective to in motivating governments and the public to change, it has been suggested.This point was the subject of a recent presentation by Rajendra Shende, the head of UN group OzonAction.She told Guardian writer Jonathan Watts that the re-naming renaming could harness the same collective will that coining the imaginative phrase `hold hole in the ozone` achieved in the 80s.`It made people feel there was a hole in the roof of their home,` Ms Shende said.Mr Watts reminded this awareness was instrumental in eventually outlawing the harmful CFC particles with the Montreal protocol in 1989.Relaying the points of Ms Shende`s report, the writer noted that instrumental in effecting the change was a high-level political will, cooperative measures between developing and developed nations and `an early, binding commitment to take action that sent a clear signal to the markets and industry`. Maybe, he said, the campaign to fight climate change needs a forceful term everyone can rally around. The term is not totally new - it was used by NASA as far back as 1997 in an article about deforestation. Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=779 Changing the phrase global warming to something more emotive such as global burning could be more effective in motivating governments and the public to change, it has been suggested.This point was the subject of a recent presentation by Rajendra Shende, the head of UN group OzonAction.She told Guardian writer Jonathan Watts that the renaming could harness the same collective will that coining the imaginative phrase `hole in the ozone` achieved in the 80s.`It made people feel there was a hole in the roof of their home,` Ms Shende said.Mr Watts reminded this awareness was instrumental in eventually outlawing the harmful CFC particles with the Montreal protocol in 1989.Relaying the points of Ms Shende`s report, the writer noted that instrumental in effecting the change was a high-level political will, cooperative measures between developing and developed nations and `an early, binding commitment to take action that sent a clear signal to the markets and industry`. Maybe, he said, the campaign to fight climate change needs a forceful term everyone can rally around. The term is not totally new - it was used by NASA as far back as 1997 in an article about deforestation. Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=778 Figures relaying the impact of public expenditure on global greenhouse gas emissions have been published alongside the budget for the first time in the world - by the Scottish government.With the publication of the first Carbon Assessment of the Draft Spending Plans for 2010/2011, the body aims to provide an understanding on the implications for CO2 emissions in the budgeting process. Cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth John Swinney asserted the country was committed to being a world leader on the matter of climate change with this `significant [and] experimental` scheme. `It is vital to have analysis available to help inform critical decisions on how to take appropriate action during these challenging economic times,` he explained. The administration also issued a report proposing different ways of assessing the carbon footprint of governmental policies and reiterated its target reduction of at least 80 per cent of current emissions by 2050. Energy minister Jim Mather recently commented that `renewable energy is driving Scotland`s economic recovery`. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=777 Construction companies that adopt low-carbon practices will be `one step ahead` when coming out of the recession, an industry figure has said. Brian Berry, director of external affairs for the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), asserted the organisation was well aware of the importance of investing in energy efficient and low-impact building projects. `This is where the new opportunities are going to be as we pull out of the recession,` he explained.Mr Berry went on to note the need for new skills and new technology as well as increased demand to fully embark in this direction.The director also urged industries to `think about its processes #133; in terms of innovation and creativity`. As far as demand, he recognised a uniform will on a political level to create a low-carbon built environment but asserted real change would ultimately rely on consumer demand. His comments came in response to Peter Mandelson`s recent announcement that he was commissioning a review of the sector`s prospects for growth in a low-carbon future. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=776 A new method aimed at detecting the emissions of harmful particles that contribute to global warming is being developed by scientists, the American Chemical Society has reported.In an article entitled Identifying the molecular origin of Global Warming, researchers described how beyond carbon dioxide, gases such as fluorine that are found in items ranging from carpeting to electronics could also contribute to climate change.I think err on the side of caution and state this study is to appear in Journal of Physical Chemistry A, a weekly publication.The study explained that this detection method would analyse more than a dozen chemicals that affect the atmosphere in different ways - a control manufacturers have never had to consider. `It is hoped that the results from this study will be used in the design of more environmentally friendly materials`, the team concluded. The effects of these emissions were the result of a recent study by the University of Alaska Fairbanks, which noted a lengthening of seasons and disruption in Arctic animal life due to precocious melting of snow. Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=775 A statement released at the launch of a Chinese report on climate change prospects has declared that the carbon emissions reduction target of two degrees C is `unrealistic` for the country. Deputy chief of the Energy Research Institute, Dai Yande, said that even best case scenarios including solar energy and carbon capture technology would probably not see the nation adhere to limits advised by governments and scientists. In a statement relayed by the Guardian, Mr Dai blamed rich nations for failing to practice what they preach.`Twenty per cent of the world`s population takes 80 per cent of wealth and emits 70 per cent of greenhouse gases,` he noted. Even the least ambitious scenario was `unlikely` to be realised due to economic constraints and production demands, the researcher said.While the statement does not represent official policy, it is expected to be influential on Chinese positioning during the upcoming Copenhagen summit. A recent study from Harvard University found that China could meet all of its energy needs using wind power alone by 2030. Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=774 The UK needs to play catch-up in renewable energy, an industry figure has said.John Barwise, chairman of the Cumbria Green Business Forum, asserted - `We desperately need to rebuild the UK`s power industry and to invest now in training and skills, especially in new technologies, to ensure a sustainable power resource in the UK for future generations.`This shortcoming was attributed to lack of government support in the 80s, privatisation of utilities and an excessive dependence on gas and oil in the 90s. Mr Barwise also drew attention to the UK`s leading role in the field during the 1970s, pointing out that most of today`s cleantech and human resources for the sector come from overseas. His comments came in response to the government`s Renewable Energy Strategy, which stated that the two principal challenges in current policy-making are climate change and energy supplies.Goals include 20 per cent of energy coming from such sources by 2020. Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=772 People are more likely to reduce their carbon footprint because of economic incentive - and not concern for the environment, an industry figure has said.Gordon Miller, founder of whatgreenhome.com, asserted that appealing to consumers` sense of civic responsibility would not be effective.`The overwhelming majority of people are motivated by money rather than environmental issues, especially in these though economic times,` he noted.However, people are not indifferent and do want to slow climate change if it is convenient and financially logical to do so, Mr Miller clarified. Even high-return schemes such as the installation of solar thermal or photovoltaics in the home were not convincing homeowners because of their high purchase cost and payback time.This example is in spite of government incentives such as #163;2,500 toward the installation of these devices. Mr Miller applauded a new #163;5 billion initiative recently proposed by the UK Green Building Council that would see sums of up to #163;10,000 offered in the form of low-interest loans to pay for energy efficient improvements to the home. Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=773 China has reported a sharp rise in birth defects and an expert has been quoted as blaming pollution.`Chemical and toxic emissions impact the health of the parents, so it is likely they also impact the health of an unborn baby,` explained Ren Aiguo, director of the reproductive health institute at Peking University. Many regions such as Beijing and Zhejiang have recorded a near doubling of babies born with physical abnormalities. The industrial hub of Guangdong reported birth defects rose from 186 to 246 per 10,000 births over a four-year period. State media noted that women choosing to have children later in life could also be influencing the upsurge and the Beijing municipal health bureau`s report was quoted as attributing it in part to improved monitoring capacities and diagnostic techniques. The government report did, however, mention environmental pollution as a possible cause. Pollution from coal-fired power stations was recently linked to a dramatic increase in the rate of birth defects in Punjab by the Observer. Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:55:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=771 Global warming could affect UV radiation levels - and northern countries would bear the brunt of the consequences, a study has found.Physicists at the University of Toronto determined that 21st century climate change will shift the distribution of ozone, causing a 20 per cent increase in UV radiation during spring and summer in the south and a nine per cent decrease of it in northern territories such as Canada and Scandinavia.Researcher Theodore Shepherd called on the scientific community to undertake further research on the effects of stratospheric changes including less UV radiation, as the negative impact of high UV radiation has already been widely studied due to ozone depletion.The team gave the example of lower levels provoking vitamin D deficiencies in northern populations. A past study from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that low levels of the important vitamin increased the risk of developing and dying from colon cancer. Wed, 16 Sep 2009 21:55:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=770 A London-based environment and energy consultancy - the first to monitor, reward and penalise the carbon footprint of its staff - has announced the expansion of its Personal Carbon Tracking Scheme.David Symons of WSP declared that the two-year programme had been a success and had even given the brand a competitive edge in recruitment. `[The company] is now aiming to expand the scheme to cover employees in offices around the world and in the different business divisions of WSP,` he explained. Mr Symons` comments followed an exclusive report of the experiment by the Times, which included anecdotes concerning the employees involved.Among case studies was the managing director who began cycling to work every day but exceeded his limit by flying to his holiday home in South Africa and was fined the maximum of #163;100. The news source reported that the overall carbon footprint of participants fell by ten per cent in the first year and that the company is discussing the incentive-based scheme with several FTSE 100 companies.The Institute for Public Policy Research (ippr) recently said population-wide personal carbon trading (PCT) schemes could be a viable plan B as a way of reducing carbon emissions should current measures fail. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=769 Scientists from the Met Office Hadley Centre have found that a ten-year hiatus in warming is common and a current one may be masking dangerous increases in greenhouse gas concentrations.Jeff Knight, lead author of the study, claimed that the low rise in temperature over the last decade is attributable to the possibility that the 1999-2008 decade was one in which a warming slowdown was due to occur.The study found this phenomenon - called internal climate variability - was present in about one in every eight decades. Research from the National Science Foundation has estimated a total increase in temperatures of about 1.4 C since the industrial revolution due to human activity. Further rises are likely to have been masked by this cooling, but the revised decadal forecast predicts renewed warming from 2010.Commenting on the findings, head of climate change advice at the Met Office Vicky Pope asserted: `We cannot be complacent. Other signals of climate change are increasing as fast or even faster than ever.` Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=768 The past year`s simple changes to Whitehall`s IT system have saved enough carbon dioxide to fill almost 2,500 Olympic-sized swimming pools, the government has announced.During the Greening Government ICT conference in London, cabinet office minister Angela Smith relayed this figure and claimed that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is responsible for up to 20 per cent of carbon emissions created by their offices, generating about 460,000 tonnes a year.She likened the output to that of `a million households in a month or a jumbo jet flying around the world more than a thousand times`.The changes involved 18 steps and included simple actions such as turning off all machines at night, using and reusing longer-lasting equipment, increasing server efficiency and making double-sided printing a default option. Government IT efforts recently came under scrutiny, however, when the Met Office`s #163;30 million supercomputer - created to predict global warming - was found to emit 12,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=767 Carbon capture and storage (CCS) could play a significant role in tackling climate change - and trials should begin as soon as possible, an energy campaigner has said.Nick Rau, from Friends of the Earth, asserted that CCS could be helpful for buying time while energy markets adapt to the demands of climate change.CCS is potentially capable of holding at least 22 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide and storing 100 years` worth of CO2 emissions under the North Sea`s ocean floor.`CCS could help reduce UK emissions while we shift our energy supplies from dirty fossil fuels to clean, renewable sources such as wind, tidal and wave,` he explained.Mr Rau went on to call for `massive and urgent investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency and green technology`. The campaigner`s comments echo those of professor Stuart Haszeldine from the University of Edinburgh, who recently condemned the government for not acting more quickly on the matter.While speaking at the University of Surrey in Guildford, the academic asserted that the government should be pushed to build five of these platforms by 2016. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=765 Scientists have called for increase awareness of the effects of global warming on the Arctic biosphere.In a paper to be published in Science journal, co-author Syndonia Bret-Harte, associate professor of biology at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, outlined the gaps in knowledge of current ecological risk and called for increased climate change research.Among the effects noted in the study were lengthening of seasons, increased melting leading to the deaths of newborn seal pups by destroying their under-snow birthing chambers and dozens of unknown factors whose effects `warrants increased attention`. Ms Bret-Harte warned that while the global effects of warming on the poles was abstractly observed on a global level, `what is understudied is the living component of the Arctic and that includes humans`. UN chief Ban Ki-moon recently revealed while addressing world leaders that he was frightened by the evidence of global warming as it is witnessed in the Arctic. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=766 The latest low carbon competitiveness index from London consultancy Vivid Economics has placed the UK in third position, after France and Japan.Ranking is based on three factors - current performance, rate of progress and the scale of challenges faced.`The UK [has] been able to combine GDP growth with improvements in carbon productivity,` the report read. However, Britain was pinned along with Brazil and South Korea as needing to improve their rate of carbon productivity growth by almost one per cent to meet implied targets.The paper concluded by offering the examples of Mexico, South Africa and Germany to show that `improvements in carbon productivity need not be at the expense of economic growth, in either developed or industrialising economies`. In related news, British consultancy firm Maplecroft`s recent climate change risk report 2009-10 claimed Australians have the highest per capita sum of CO2 emissions, while Britons came in at number 155 out of 166 countries considered. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=763 The Institute for Public Policy Research (ippr) has warned that the personal carbon trading (PCT) scheme being considered by the government would not be the best way to reduce carbon emissions - but it may be a necessary plan B.Drawing an estimated administration cost of #163;1.4 billion a year to administer, this scheme would be an expensive option, as well as one that risks being unpopular, the institute commented.However, the organisation noted that if current measures fail, it could be a suitable alternative.Matthew Lockwood, associate director at ippr, said that the public `carbon literary` would have to be greatly improved to anticipate for this eventuality.`We can lay the ground work now by giving people much better information about the carbon they are emitting, whether at home or at the petrol pump,` he suggested.The scheme has its proponents - Stuart Capstick, a researcher on PCT at Cardiff University`s School of Psychology recently told the Guardian this measure would be more effective than voluntary individual action. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=764 French president Nicolas Sarkozy has announced a green tax to be imposed on households next year in a bid to reduce CO2 emissions.The move has made the country the first major economy to take this step. He said the new levy on oil, gas and coal consumption was aimed at getting both individuals and companies to change their behaviour and urged other countries to follow suite.Electricity has been exempted as most of it comes from carbon-free nuclear energy.`There is no other choice. There is only one planet, a single world and we have a shared responsibility,` the statesman was quoted as saying.As of 2010, the charge will be 17 euros (about #163;15) per tonne of carbon dioxide. The first European country to impose such a tax was Finland. Sweden and Denmark followed suit a year later in 1991. A bid to impose a carbon cap on all airlines operating in the European Union is set to come into effect in 2012.Point Carbon has said that the move could cost offending airlines #128;1 billion (#163;874 million) in emissions trading. Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=762 A scientist has warned after studying the effect of global warming on the Arctic that the region `as we know it may soon be a thing of the past`.Eric Post, associate professor of biology at Penn State University observed trauma among several species caused by rapidly receding sea ice coverage - said to have been declining by 45,000 square kilometres per year over the past two to three decades.Mr Post asserted. `It seems no matter where you look - on the ground, in the air or in the water - we`re seeing signs of rapid change.`The heat-induced collapse of under-snow birthing chambers is killing off newborn bear pups and has already set them on the path of extinction, the researcher declared.Other species to suffer include the ivory gull, Pacific walrus and several types of seals. Findings include a reduction of almost 30 per cent in plant productivity due to vegetation damage following a winter warming episode. Conclusions echoed another recent study by researchers from the University of Helsinki, which reported that climate change is progressing faster in the Arctic than anywhere else on earth. Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=761 A cost-benefit analysis of ways to reduce carbon emissions has found that between all the cleantech and bio-engineering proposals, contraception may actually be among the most effective. CO2 could be reduced by one tonne for every $7 (#163;4.2) spent on family planning, the London School of Economics (LSE) report claimed.This is compared to $32 spending on low-carbon technologies.Conclusions from the study, which was commissioned by environmental charity Optimum Population Trust (OPT), included recommending these types of initiatives as one of the primary methods for reducing emissions.According to the United Nations, these programmes could reduce unplanned births by about 72 per cent.`It`s always been obvious that total emissions depend on the number of emitters, as well as their individual emissions,` said Roger Martin, chairman of the OPT at LSE. The study discovered that stemming unwanted pregnancies could prevent at least 34 giga tonnes of carbon dioxide being released into the air. A new OECD publication revealed that teenage pregnancy in Britain was one of the worst among developed countries. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=760 Scientists have predicted climate change could lead to `large desynchronisations` in plant behaviour.Researchers Dr Malcolm Clark and Professor Roy Thompson studied 119 years` of records from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and over 200 years` of registered climate fluctuations to create a model for predicting the impact of global warming on organic life in 2080.They found that for every one degree C increase in temperature, spring flowering could begin 11 days earlier.With recent climate change projections estimating a median surface warming of 5.2 degrees, certain elements of the biosphere could come into springtime two months early, causing `large desynchonisations`, they reported. Mr Thompson noted: `For forests, just one week`s difference to the start of growth makes a big difference to timber production.`A different study from the National Science Foundation recently established that human activity could well be the likely culprit for what has already resulted in a climate difference of 0.7 C since the industrial revolution. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=759 The latest argument for renewable and efficient energy comes with the discovery that inhaling air pollutants can serve as an `invisible catalyst` to heart disease.Researchers at the division of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Michigan found that inhaling pollution for just two hours provoked a significant rise in diastolic blood pressure.Lead author Dr Robert D Brook said that while this could pose little threat to healthy people, the one in three Americans that have hypertension could be at grater risk of several kinds of heart failure and disease. `In people with underlying coronary artery disease, this small increase may actually be able to trigger heart attack or stroke,` he explained, adding: `[This] really bolsters #133; the importance of maintaining air quality for human health.A recent study, funded by the Wates Foundation, estimated that air contamination was responsible for 24,000 premature deaths and thousand of hospitalisations every year. Wed, 9 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=758 Schemes to capture and store 100 years` worth of CO2 emissions under the North Sea`s ocean floor are not being properly supported by the government, it has been claimed. According to a report entitled Opportunities for CO2 storage around Scotland - by the Scottish Centre for Carbon Storage - underwater carbon storage is a very real option and could hold at least 22 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide.However, professor Stuart Haszeldine, from the University of Edinburgh, condemned the government for not acting on the matter. He accused the leadership of being reticent over the commercial potential such projects could have.`We`re doing the usual British thing of being faint hearted when it comes to making a business out of something,` he added.For the proponent of the plan, the fact that there is only one trial project established for 2014 is a case of too little, too late. Audiences at the University of Surrey in Guildford heard the professor say: `What I`m pushing for is the government to get on with it and build five of these platforms by 2016.`Matthias Ruete, director general of the European Commission`s transport and energy department, told EurActiv that carbon storage could be the `third leg` of CO2-free power production after renewable energy sources and nuclear. Wed, 9 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=757 The US environmental protection agency has made standards on TV qualifications more rigorous and they now need to be 40 per cent more energy efficient than before.Televisions will have to use less power when turned on without affecting quality of image and must also consume less when downloading programme guide data.These new regulations will provide the same reduction in carbon emissions as about three million cars on an annual scale, the agency said.Changes could also offer potential savings of $2.5 million (#163;1.5 million) in American households over the course of 12 months.Upgrades will be the norm from May 1st 2010.In that year, the body estimates, 19 million widescreen TVs will be delivered to American homes.The British Retail Consortium recently called on the UK government to introduce a domestic appliance scrappage scheme, offering money to consumers every time they traded-up to a more energy efficient model. Tue, 8 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=756 A specialist who has said that the current goals for CO2 emissions reduction are too far off and `too removed from individual experience` is calling for personal carbon trading (PCT).Stuart Capstick, a researcher on PCT at Cardiff University`s School of Psychology, told the Guardian that setting a number for a fair amount of carbon for an individual to consume would be more effective that today`s voluntary individual action.Indeed, a recent Guardian-commissioned poll found that although 85 per cent of people accept the threat of global warming and climate change, only 33 per cent would accept some kind of financial sacrifice such as a pay-per-mile road charging scheme. `We`re trying to take peoples` minds off long-term targets like 2020 and focus on the immediate need for action on climate change,` Mr Capstick explained.PCT would see each individual allocated a set number of carbon credits, which could then be bought or sold based on a market model just as carbon trading happens with businesses now.The debate is open - in London on September 11th, the Institute for Public Policy Research will launch a report on the prospects of this scheme. Featured speakers will include MP Simon Hughes, Simon Roberts from the Centre for Sustainable Energy and Nick Eyre from the Environmental Change Institute. Tue, 8 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=755 London mayor Boris Johnson`s recent announcement that ten London boroughs have been awarded funding to become low carbon areas has been enthusiastically welcomed by one of the recipients. One of the areas to be nominated, Brixton, has several projects in the pipeline, according to Sally Prentice, cabinet member for environment for Lambeth council.Among priorities are cutting fuel consumption and creating programmes that businesses and households will get involved in. Cllr Prentice added: `We all have to raise our game and act now if we are to avert climate change`.Mr Johnson announced on September 3rd that the ten boroughs would be awarded #163;200,000 to `pioneer energy-busting measures`.Saying he wants London to be a green city, the mayor expressed hope that these projects could set an example to the others.Among the other boroughs chosen were Barking Town Centre, Peckham and Queen`s Park. Mon, 7 Sep 2009 19:9:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=754 India has announced plans to reduce CO2 emissions and start a sort of carbon credit trading scheme in the run-up to the Copenhagen summit.Director-general of the bureau of energy efficiency, Ajay Mathur, told Reuters that the prime minister had approved a plan to cut the country`s use of fossil fuel by five per cent within six years.The strategy will target industrial operations, imposing lower emissions goals according to the current energy efficiency of 714 sites.Failure to meet the target could result in a fine.`That way both the best and the worst have to improve,` Mr Mathur said.The news source also reported that a certificate trading scheme operating on a national level is being discussed.Climate change secretary Ed Miliband recently told the Guardian he though that India could play an important role in the upcoming summit meeting.`India has very stretching targets on solar energy, on renewable energy #133; I think India wants to be a deal maker not a deal breaker in Copenhagen,` he claimed. Mon, 7 Sep 2009 19:9:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=752 A new framework for reducing carbon emissions is necessary - and a global consensus is more important than ever, John Prescott has said.Former UK climate negotiator told the Guardian that getting every country involved in CO2 reduction goals at the upcoming Copenhagen talks - while more pressing than ever before - would also be more difficult than in previous years.This was because political realities are more complex and more nations are involved than they were at the 1997 Kyoto talks.However, he praised an increased awareness of the issue, which is being taken more seriously by world governments than it has in recent years.`The reality is that [countries have] found a rationing process #133; the world will have nine billion people by 2050. If you still want growth and prosperity, do you keep the model you have now? It`s immoral.`Mr Prescott recently told the Independent that Europe`s current goal of an 80 per cent cut in emissions by 2050 may not be enough to convince countries like China and India to commit to real change.He said that 90 per cent would show these countries that richer nations were willing to make a real sacrifice. Mon, 7 Sep 2009 19:9:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=753 The last decade was the hottest of the previous two millennia and marked an abrupt reversal of a thousand-year-long cooling trend, scientists have found.In what they say proves human impact, researchers at the National Science Foundation (NSF) found that summer temperatures had been cooling at a rate of about 0.2 degrees C from the start of the first millennium but stopped during the industrial revolution.In the last ten years the Arctic temperatures have averaged 0.7 degrees C higher than would have been in line with previous meteorology, the report found.Study member Gifford Miller, of the University of Colorado, said that because industrial activity is the culprit for the changes witnessed, they can only expect a continuation of the trend into the next century.`Consequently, Arctic warming will continue to exceed temperature increases in the rest of the northern hemisphere, resulting in accelerated loss of land ice and an increased rate of sea-level rise, with global consequences,` he explained.UN chief Ban Ki-moon recently told governments he was frightened by the evidence of global warming in the artic. Fri, 4 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=751 Carbon targets are set too low to save one of the Earth`s check style guide not sure if in this context it`s earth most biologically diverse habitats, scientists have declared.A statement released by the Institute of Zoology, IPSO and the Royal Society called for urgent action to stop temperature-induced coral bleaching.The campaign based its plea on findings by J.E.N JEN Veron former Chief Scientist LC of the Australian Institute of Marine Science entitled Is the Great Barrier Reef on Death Row? Full stopIn the study he found that climate change is already killing off organisms living on the Great Barrier Reef and many others. The report stated that the damage began when atmospheric carbon emissions exceeded 320ppm (parts per million).The campaign statement informs that today`s level is 387ppm. It warned: `Proposals to limit CO2 levels to 450ppm will not prevent the catastrophic loss of coral reefs from the combined effects of climate change and ocean acidification.`These concerns have been echoed by the Australian government, who which recently released a similar document describing the threat global warming is posing to coral reefs and the importance of the decisions made in years to come on its fate. Fri, 4 Sep 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=750 Responding to a government report stating that Britain may face power cuts resembling those of the `70s, British Eco Energy has called for a significant increase in awareness of renewable energy resources.The spokesperson said that this was a necessary target not only because of the threat of power cuts, but for the greater goal of reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change.He warned that if alternative sources stayed out of the mainstream much longer, the chances of meeting these objectives were `very slim`.A spokesperson from the Department of Energy and Climate Change said the option was not being neglected by the government.`We`re already seeing the benefit of putting extra incentives behind renewables,` he added.The study forecasted the need to cut around 3,000MW hours per year by 2017 - the equivalent of the entire city of Nottingham being without electricity for a day.These numbers took into account an EU directive designed to limit pollution and acid rain which will shut down nine oil and coal-fired power plants by 2015. Thu, 3 Sep 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=747 Scientists have expressed worries that mounting temperatures coupled with melting artic permafrost could set off the release of underground methane gas reserves.Once the gas is released, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) warned that global warming would happen 20 times faster than it would under the effects of CO2 alone.This is because the former would trap much more of the Earth`s heat radiation, the team noted.Lead author Ruben Jaunes, assistant professor in Energy Studies in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, said: `This could have implications for our understanding of the Earth`s carbon cycle and global warming.`The report, which appeared in the Journal of Geophysical Research, expressed fears that underground stores of the gas could already be escaping through vents in the ocean floors of frozen regions.UN chief Ban Ki-moon addressed the specific threat of melting polar ice caps releasing methane gas to a meeting of heads of state this week, saying: `We are heading towards an abyss.` Thu, 3 Sep 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=748 UK energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband has urged New Delhi to back a climate change deal.In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, the government official said that India could work with Britain to exploit the potential of renewable and clean energy.He added that New Delhi was well positioned to profit from carbon credit trade and called on other nations to convince the country of the benefit of supporting the deal.The project #150; to be presented at December`s global summit on climate change in Copenhagen #150; would aim at cutting carbon emissions by 80 per cent and global warming by two per cent by the year 2050, the paper reported.`It`s got to be a deal they can say helps Indian development and doesn`t hinder it, which says you can grow but in a low carbon way, with significant commitments to cut carbon in the west,` Mr Miliband explained.India`s environment minister Jairam Ramesh recently released a report projecting a near tripling of the country`s greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2030. Thu, 3 Sep 2009 17:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=749 A report entitled Crime is in the Air from the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies at King`s College London has accused government officials of not doing enough to stem lethal levels of air pollution.The study, funded by the Wates Foundation, estimated that air contamination is responsible for 24,000 premature deaths and thousands of hospitalisations every year.Also suggested in the paper was the possibility of the EU legal action against the UK government #150;which was said to be one of Europe`s worst polluters - for breaching contamination levels.Over 20 British cities were found to be emitting twice the safe levels established by the World Health Organisation.Professor Reece Walters said that punishments for commercial polluters were `appallingly disproportionate to the harm caused`.`The existing regulatory systems prioritise trade and economic prosperity over public safety and this is totally unacceptable,` she added.The authors declared that this problem required `urgent attention` in the run-up to the 2012 Olympic Games. In related news, the Met Office`s recent purchase of a supercomputer worth #163;30 million #150; created to anticipate climate change #150; has been found to be a big polluter #150; emitting 12,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. Wed, 2 Sep 2009 21:40:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=746 Unless civilisations start drastically reducing their carbon emissions mankind will be forced to rely on unpredictable and unproven geo-engineering technologies to survive, a panel of scientists has concluded.Researchers from the Carnegie Institution`s department of global ecology warned that dependence on these remedies could become necessary all while being potentially very dangerous.Professor John Shepherd, who chaired the study, said: `Some geo-engineering techniques could have serious unintended and detrimental effects on many people and ecosystems #150; yet we are still failing to take the only action that will prevent us from having to rely on them.`Among the threats outlined by the team was the melting of polar ice caps - causing both rapid sea level rise and the release of `catastrophic` quantities of methane gas - and changing rainfall patterns that could provoke global crop failures.Bio-engineering proposals for fighting climate change recent made the news, when the Institution of Mechanical Engineers introduced drafts for mechanical trees designed to absorb several thousand times more CO2 than real trees. Wed, 2 Sep 2009 21:40:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=744 What the US federal government can do to help businesses reduce their carbon footprint has been the subject of an IBM-commissioned report outlining strategies and suggestions for the governing body.Author Nicole Darnall, a professor at George Mason University, said she has written a `road map` for the new administration to promote green production and commerce.The environmental protection agency needs to be more active in helping companies undertake changes in their ecological attitudes, she added, as the key issue is to convince commercial organisations that becoming more energy efficient is in their best interest.`We need stronger leadership that emphasises both the company`s and consumer`s role in creating a cleaner, greener economy,` she declared.Among Ms Darnall`s recommendations is the implementation of a mandatory environmental product label policy, which would provide information such as the natural resources, energy consumption and waste occasioned in the making of a product.UK government has been making similar gestures - the Department of Energy and Climate Change kicked off the 10:10 campaign this week, aimed at facilitating a general ten per cent reduction in carbon emissions by the year 2010.UK government has been making similar gestures - the Department of Energy and Climate Change kicked off the 10:10 campaign this week, aimed at facilitating a general ten per cent reduction in carbon emissions by the year 2010. Wed, 2 Sep 2009 21:40:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=745 An insurance provider has called on the government to allow air travellers who offset their CO2 emissions to be exempt from paying Air Passenger Duty (APD).Perry Wilson, founder of InsureandGo, told Travel Weekly that the more people who offset their travel, the `easier it is for [organisations] to stand up to the government on APD`. Mr Wilson condemned a lack of transparency on how exactly the APD was going to contribute to cutting emissions, and added that he regarded active credit acquisition as the more responsible option.`This way we know it goes to carbon offsetting,` he explained.A recent survey by national campaign Flying Matters found that three-quarters of participants regarded the APD #150; due to be launched this November and next year - as just another stealth tax.The group criticised the initiative as elitist, saying it would keep 44 per cent of people from going on holiday.According to their calculations, after the tariff is applied in full force in 2010 a family of four flying economy will have to pay #163;180 pounds more in tax. Tue, 1 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=743 A new campaign from the energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband intends to cut household emissions and move towards the government`s 10 per cent reduction goal by 2010.According to the department, around 90,000 homes in some of the poorest areas of the UK are to join its London headquarters and the 1.2 million homes last year which received some form of insulation to fight climate change.Mr Miliband said this programme included a #163;350 million sum to be spent by energy companies over the next three years to deliver whole house and street makeovers to reduce the carbon footprint of the most disadvantaged households and help these residences to save up to #163;300 per year.`By signing up to the 10:10 campaign, I hope people will be sending a broader message to governments round the world,` he added.The 10:10 campaign was launched at London`s Tate Modern on September 1st and featured public commitments to meet the campaign goal from dozens of public and private organisations. Tue, 1 Sep 2009 19:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=742 Scientists have been to study what has been called the Great Pacific Ocean Garbage Patch floating 1,000 miles off the coast of California.Among the masses of plastic waste, the Scripps Environmental Accumulation of Plastic Expedition (Seaplex) also found nets in which sea creatures had been trapped.Some debris even contained fish that usually live as deep as 700 meters under the ocean surface, they reported.Linda Goad, programme director in the National Science Foundation`s Ocean Sciences Division, said the project was important to increasing understanding of this important problem.`We hope that Seaplex will result in increased awareness of a growing issue,` she added.The chief scientist of the expedition, Miriam Goldstein, expressed amazement at what they saw out there.`Finding so much plastic there was shocking,` she revealed.The trip substantiated the existence of this almost legendary island, which consists of pollution carried by ocean currents getting trapped in the North Pacific Gyre.Last week, Katsuhiko Saido, a chemist at Nihon University, Chiba, Japan, told the American Chemical Society that the plastic does undergo a sort of decomposition process, releasing toxic chemicals that could potentially disrupt the functioning of hormones in animals and marine life. Fri, 28 Aug 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=741 The government`s announcement that renewable energy sources would be given priority access to the UK`s power grid has been welcomed by the British Wind Energy Association (BWEA).Energy and climate secretary Ed Miliband has changed the previous system which saw the energy grid filled on a first come, first served basis, saying that energy efficient alternatives needed to be promoted in order to tackle climate change and provide sustainable sources of energy. A spokesperson for BWEA said: `Historically, the grid has been one of the key barriers to the development of renewable energy. We welcome today`s announcement.`The person went on to say that the association would be working with the government to get projects moving.According to the Department of Energy and Climate Change, of the 60 plus GW of new generation capacity waiting to be connected to the grid, 17 GW are from renewable sources.The government said it hoped to have the new power stations connected and running by June next year. Fri, 28 Aug 2009 18:0:00 GMT http://www.carbonadvicegroup.com/news_article.php?ID=740 A bio-engineering proposal to tackle climate change using mechanical trees has