Sustainability


SiteWise Tool Assesses Environmental Footprint of Cleanups

Navy mandates the use of new assessment tool, co-developed with Battelle, in feasibility studies at all of its remediation sites.

Feds Leverage Tech Know-how to 'Green' 5 State Capitals

EPA, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide sustainable design assistance to Boston, Jefferson City, Hartford, Charleston and Little Rock.

Algae Aqua-Culture Technology to Use Stimulus for Biodigester Plant

The company's technology turns wood chips and algae into methane and organic fertilizer.

More home-brewed solar energy systems may be closer to reality.

MIT Scientist Says New Catalyst May Speed Development of Personal Power

The catalyst has been licensed to Sun Catalytix, which envisions developing safe, super-efficient versions of the electrolyzer, suitable for homes and small businesses, within two years.

Innovative State Policy for Energy Efficiency Creates Jobs Investments

A new report from the Center for American Progress and EnergyRM indicates that a robust program of smart policy incentives and investments could make a big difference for businesses looking to invest in the growth of clean energy jobs.

Katrina Exposed Key Failures in Disaster Response, Report Says

The Institute for Southern Studies report says the federal government still hasn't properly responded to the problems on the Gulf Coast caused by Hurricane Katrina.



GE, NRMRL to Develop Platform for Water Distribution

In a cooperative research and development agreement, the team will try to increase the effectiveness of the municipal drinking water distribution network for delivery of better quality water while using less energy.

Infrared Drying Could Save Energy for Pulp and Paper Industry

Students from Saint Martin's University found that less heat is lost using flat ceramic infrared electric emitters in research supported by Puget Sound Energy.

New Fuel Economy Labels to Take GHG Emissions into Account

The Department of Transportation and EPA are offering two proposals for public comment: a letter grade to communicate a vehicle’s overall fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions performance or a label similar to the current one that uses miles per gallon but adds comparison data on fuel economy and emissions.

Neighborhood design

A 'Prefurbia' Development Solution

In a multi-part series of articles, Rick Harrison, president of Rick Harrison Site Design Studio, will explain some of the problems in land development today and how innovative methods collectively known as "Prefurbia" can help to overcome them.

Landowner and Excavator Failed to Contact Corps of Engineers for Dam

The landowner and the company he hired to perform excavation to create an earthen dam will pay a $30,000 civil penalty.

surburban sprawl

Commentary: Opportunities for Rebuilding New Orleans

Patrick Phillips, chief executive officer of the Urban Land Institute, notes progress but cautions against suburban sprawl.

Fish and Wildlife Targets Spread of Invasive Mussels in the West

Invasive mussels can clog water intake and delivery pipes and dam intake gates, among other thiings.

Veolia Water to Manage Hollister's New Water Reclamation Facility

Veolia Water North America has signed a public-private partnership contract with Hollister, Calif., for its 2.1-million-gallons-per-day membrane bioreactor facility.

Biden Highlights Energy, Smart Grid in ARRA Analysis

More than $100 billion from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has been offered to innovative and transformative program investments, including some in the transportation, renewable energy and smart grid sectors.

Fewer Worker Deaths in Solid Waste Industry, DOL Says

The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries reports that 19 solid waste collection workers died on the job in 2009, down from 31 fatalities in 2008.

West Basin Grants Will Help Local Businesses Install HETs

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation awarded nearly $300,000 to the California district to help conserve water by using high efficiency toilets.