Environmental Archives
January 28, 2013
'Energy efficiency' Green Deal launched by government
Householders are to be offered long-term loans to help make their homes more energy efficient and cut bills under a new government scheme.
Continue reading " 'Energy efficiency' Green Deal launched by government "
December 13, 2012
New nuclear plant, Hinkley Point C, design unveiled
The design for the first UK nuclear power stations to be built for 25 years will be granted approval later.
Continue reading " New nuclear plant, Hinkley Point C, design unveiled "
September 21, 2012
MPs' call to halt Arctic drilling amid safety concerns
A committee of MPs has called for a halt on drilling for oil and gas in the Arctic until safety is improved.
Continue reading " MPs' call to halt Arctic drilling amid safety concerns "
September 4, 2012
'Unprecedented threat' for UK trees from pests
UK trees are facing an "unprecedented level of threat" from pests and diseases, the Forestry Commission has warned.
Continue reading " 'Unprecedented threat' for UK trees from pests "
August 28, 2012
West Africa forest biomass 'on rise despite drought'
The carbon storage capacity of protected forests in West Africa has increased despite the region suffering a 40-year drought, a study suggests.
Continue reading " West Africa forest biomass 'on rise despite drought' "
August 8, 2012
Effort set to track air pollution
The largest and most comprehensive effort to research air pollution in Britain is underway in London and the skies above it.
Continue reading " Effort set to track air pollution "
June 28, 2012
Europe refuses UK air pollution reprieve
Government plans to delay air pollution improvements in 12 UK areas have been refused by the European Commission, which says air quality must improve.
Continue reading " Europe refuses UK air pollution reprieve "
June 22, 2012
Rio summit: Little progress, 20 years on
On the final day of the UN sustainable development summit in Rio, UN chief Ban Ki-moon has urged governments to eliminate hunger from the world.
Continue reading " Rio summit: Little progress, 20 years on "
June 21, 2012
Rio+20: Progress on Earth issues 'too slow' - UN chief
The UN sustainable development summit in Rio de Janeiro has formally opened with a warning from UN head Ban Ki-moon that progress on the issue is too slow.
Continue reading " Rio+20: Progress on Earth issues 'too slow' - UN chief "
Rio+20: Agreement reached, say diplomat
Negotiators have agreed a text to be approved by world leaders meeting this week in Rio in a summit intended to put society on a more sustainable path.
Continue reading " Rio+20: Agreement reached, say diplomat "
June 19, 2012
Healthy forests key for green growth, says UN report
The world's forests, if managed properly, can help deliver a strong and durable global green economy, a UN report has concluded.
Continue reading " Healthy forests key for green growth, says UN report "
June 18, 2012
Rio+20: Prince Charles in climate change warning
The Prince of Wales has warned of the "catastrophic" consequences of inaction on issues such as climate change, at a UN sustainability conference in Brazil.
Continue reading " Rio+20: Prince Charles in climate change warning "
Rio+20 deal weakens on energy and water pledges
Governments are set to weaken pledges on boosting access to water and energy after a new draft negotiating text was issued at the Rio+20 meeting.
Continue reading " Rio+20 deal weakens on energy and water pledges "
June 13, 2012
Nations at odds on Rio+20 earth summit
The final round of negotiations leading up to next week's Rio+20 summit begins on Wednesday with countries very much at odds on key issues.
Continue reading " Nations at odds on Rio+20 earth summit "
June 6, 2012
MPs criticise 'green' EU farm-subsidy conditions
EU plans for "green" farm-subsidy rules will reduce European food production and are likely to harm the environment, a Commons committee has warned.
Continue reading " MPs criticise 'green' EU farm-subsidy conditions "
IPPR think tank urges clarity over green policies
Ministers must send clear signals that they believe in new forms of green technology if they want companies to invest in them, a think tank has said.
Continue reading " IPPR think tank urges clarity over green policies "
May 23, 2012
Nuclear waste store gains public backing
The search for an underground storage site for high-level nuclear waste is likely to go ahead in Cumbria after a poll showed residents are in favour.
Continue reading " Nuclear waste store gains public backing "
April 30, 2012
London 2012: UN head backs 2012 green efforts
The head of the UN's Environment Programme has backed the green measures adopted by the 2012 Olympic Games.
Continue reading " London 2012: UN head backs 2012 green efforts "
April 24, 2012
US introduces $60 LED light bulb
A prize-winning light bulb that lasts for 20 years is going on sale in the US on Sunday - also known as Earth Day.
Continue reading " US introduces $60 LED light bulb "
Renewables 'help jobs and growth'
The renewable energy industry supports 110,000 jobs in the UK and could support 400,000 by 2020, a report says.
Continue reading " Renewables 'help jobs and growth' "
April 18, 2012
MPs warn UK pollution outsourcing
Carbon emissions from goods imported and consumed in the UK are rising faster than the domestic fall in greenhouse gases, MPs say.
Continue reading " MPs warn UK pollution outsourcing "
April 17, 2012
Green home improvements proposals 'dropped'
Plans to make anyone carrying out a loft or garage conversion pay more for environmental upgrades "will not happen", Downing Street sources say.
Continue reading " Green home improvements proposals 'dropped' "
April 3, 2012
New UK attempt to capture carbon
A renewed attempt to develop ways of making power stations greener is set to be unveiled by the government.
Continue reading " New UK attempt to capture carbon "
March 19, 2012
Just 2% believe coalition is 'greenest government', survey suggests
Just 2% of the UK public believe they live under the "greenest government ever", according to an opinion poll.
Continue reading " Just 2% believe coalition is 'greenest government', survey suggests "
March 16, 2012
Chevron halts production after leak at Brazil oil field
The US oil company Chevron says it has temporarily halted production operations in Brazil after a fresh oil leak was discovered.
Continue reading " Chevron halts production after leak at Brazil oil field "
March 14, 2012
EU brings farms and forests into low-carbon plans
The EU has called on European governments to include data on CO2 emissions from farming and forestry in their efforts to tackle climate change.
Continue reading " EU brings farms and forests into low-carbon plans "
January 25, 2012
Government cut to solar tariffs blocked as appeal fails
The government has failed in an appeal against a decision which blocked its attempts to reduce solar subsidies.
Continue reading " Government cut to solar tariffs blocked as appeal fails "
Magnetic soap could help in oil spill clean-ups
An international team of scientists has demonstrated the first soap that responds to magnets.
Continue reading " Magnetic soap could help in oil spill clean-ups "
November 22, 2011
People's showering habits revealed in survey
A survey, using innovative technology, has offered an insight into people's showering habits.
Continue reading " People's showering habits revealed in survey "
November 14, 2011
UK air pollution 'puts lives at risk'
The government's failure to meet EU standards on air pollution is "putting the health of UK residents at risk", says the Environmental Audit Committee.
Continue reading " UK air pollution 'puts lives at risk' "
October 25, 2011
Public supports geo-engineering ideas, study suggests
There is strong support among the public in the US, UK and Canada for more research on geo-engineering technology, a study has suggested.
Continue reading " Public supports geo-engineering ideas, study suggests "
October 9, 2011
Car-free Sunday for smog-struck Milan
The northern Italian city of Milan banned all traffic from its streets for 10 hours on Sunday in an attempt to reduce smog.
Continue reading " Car-free Sunday for smog-struck Milan "
September 16, 2011
'Most environmentally aware' firms highlighted
A report has identified 16 companies from across the developing world that are best showing how to grow profits at the same time as actively tackling environmental and social challenges.
Continue reading " 'Most environmentally aware' firms highlighted "
September 14, 2011
Diamond Jubilee: Woodland Trust to create new woodland
The Woodland Trust is to plant six million trees and create hundreds of new woodlands to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee next year.
Continue reading " Diamond Jubilee: Woodland Trust to create new woodland "
September 3, 2011
Obama scraps tighter smog rules
US President Barack Obama has scrapped proposals to tighten rules on air pollution.
Continue reading " Obama scraps tighter smog rules "
September 1, 2011
Shoppers bulk buy 60-watt incandescent bulbs as EU ban comes into place
First it was the 100-watt, then the 75-watt and now it's the turn of their dimmer relative the 60-watt incandescent light bulb to disappear from British shop shelves forever.
Continue reading " Shoppers bulk buy 60-watt incandescent bulbs as EU ban comes into place "
August 5, 2011
Nigeria Ogoniland oil clean-up 'could take 30 years'
Nigeria's Ogoniland region could take 30 years to recover fully from the damage caused by years of oil spills, a long-awaited UN report says.
Continue reading " Nigeria Ogoniland oil clean-up 'could take 30 years' "
July 26, 2011
India announces environment regulator
India will set up an environment regulator to bring in a "complete change" in the process of granting clearances for industries.
Continue reading " India announces environment regulator "
April 11, 2011
Nitrogen pollution 'costs EU up to £280bn a year'
Nitrogen pollution from farms, vehicles, industry and waste treatment is costing the EU up to £280bn (320bn euros) a year, a report says.
Continue reading " Nitrogen pollution 'costs EU up to £280bn a year' "
Carbon emissions linked to Europe's hay fever rise
Carbon dioxide emissions may be raising pollen counts in European cities, according to a continent-wide study.
Continue reading " Carbon emissions linked to Europe's hay fever rise "
March 23, 2011
Budget paints in green and brown
A minimum price for carbon and more cash for the Green Investment Bank (GIB) are among the Budget's tools to encourage a UK green energy expansion.
Continue reading " Budget paints in green and brown "
February 1, 2011
EU presses UK over London air pollution
The UK government has just weeks to convince EU officials that it will meet European clean air standards in London, if it is to avoid a court case.
Continue reading " EU presses UK over London air pollution "
January 20, 2011
Germany ahead of UK in green growth
Research by the Carbon Trust shows that Britain's business leaders believe that the UK is falling behind Germany in taking up the green business opportunities.
Continue reading " Germany ahead of UK in green growth "
October 28, 2010
Licences for oil and gas cut back to protect wildlife
Licensing of oil and gas exploration in UK waters has been cut back by the UK government in its bid to ensure protection of marine wildlife.
Continue reading " Licences for oil and gas cut back to protect wildlife "
September 30, 2010
Environment suffers in planned quango cull
Documents leaked to the press last week reveal environmental organisations will be hardest hit by the government's axe.
Continue reading " Environment suffers in planned quango cull "
Environmental concern over Sri Lanka nuclear plans
Environmentalists in Sri Lanka have expressed concern over government plans to build a nuclear power plant by 2025.
Continue reading " Environmental concern over Sri Lanka nuclear plans "
September 3, 2010
Technique to trace persistent CFCs
Ultrafine measurements of atmospheric gases could help track down persistent sources of CFCs thought to be slowing the recovery of the ozone layer.
Continue reading " Technique to trace persistent CFCs "
August 13, 2010
Energy efficiency ratings to be compulsory for home sales
EU legislation means that from 2012 all homes for sale will require an energy efficiency rating to be carried out upfront.
Continue reading " Energy efficiency ratings to be compulsory for home sales "
August 2, 2010
WWF says sorry to Saudi Arabia over vandalism
Environmental group WWF has apologised to Saudi Arabia after one of its workers vandalised the country's nameplate at a climate conference.
Continue reading " WWF says sorry to Saudi Arabia over vandalism "
July 23, 2010
UK government axes its sustainability watchdog
The UK government is to stop funding the Sustainable Development Commission (SDC), its independent environmental watchdog and advisory body.
Continue reading " UK government axes its sustainability watchdog "
July 19, 2010
Environment quangos to be cut, says Caroline Spelman
Environment quangos will be cut as part of coalition spending reductions, the environment secretary has indicated.
Continue reading " Environment quangos to be cut, says Caroline Spelman "
June 21, 2010
Ridge clue to Antarctic ice loss
The discovery of an underwater ridge in West Antarctica could help explain why there has been an acceleration in the ice flowing from a glacier in the area.
Continue reading " Ridge clue to Antarctic ice loss "
June 16, 2010
Water CO2 calculator for UK homes goes online
A website that helps people to work out how much CO2 is being emitted to heat water in their homes has gone online.
Continue reading " Water CO2 calculator for UK homes goes online "
June 14, 2010
Experts double estimate of BP oil spill size
As many as 40,000 barrels (1.7 million gallons) of oil a day may have been gushing out from a blown-out Gulf of Mexico well, doubling many estimates.
Continue reading " Experts double estimate of BP oil spill size "
Festivals put green issues higher up the bill
Reaching over his left shoulder, Melvin Benn unscrews the light bulb and begins bashing it against the table in front of him.
Continue reading " Festivals put green issues higher up the bill "
June 9, 2010
Gestures reveal 'green fakers', says psychologist
There are many "green fakers" who only pretend to be eco-friendly, claims a psychologist who has been studying what is revealed by body language.
Continue reading " Gestures reveal 'green fakers', says psychologist "
June 4, 2010
UK receives 'final warning' over air pollution
The European Commission has threatened to take the UK to the European Court of Justice over air quality breaches.
Continue reading " UK receives 'final warning' over air pollution "
May 6, 2010
Gulf oil spill: First leak capped, says BP
BP has managed to seal the smallest of the three leaks spilling oil into the Gulf of Mexico, the company says.
Continue reading " Gulf oil spill: First leak capped, says BP "
April 30, 2010
Oil 'reaches' US Gulf Coast from spill
The US Coast Guard is investigating reports that oil has started washing ashore on the Gulf Coast from a leaking offshore well.
Continue reading " Oil 'reaches' US Gulf Coast from spill "
April 26, 2010
Oil rig spill off Louisiana could threaten coastline
There are fears of an environmental disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, as efforts to clear up an oil spill have been suspended because of bad weather
Continue reading " Oil rig spill off Louisiana could threaten coastline "
April 21, 2010
Swazi awarded for poacher murder expose
A Swazi lawyer has won a prestigious environmental award for her work exposing the extra-judicial killings of suspected poachers by game rangers.
Continue reading " Swazi awarded for poacher murder expose "
April 20, 2010
UK water use 'worsening global crisis'
The amount of water used to produce food and goods imported by developed countries is worsening water shortages in the developing world, a report says.
Continue reading " UK water use 'worsening global crisis' "
April 19, 2010
Bolivia hosts talks on rights of Mother Earth
Delegates are gathering in the Bolivian city of Cochabamba for a grassroots alternative to last year's UN climate change summit in Copenhagen.
Continue reading " Bolivia hosts talks on rights of Mother Earth "
April 15, 2010
Calls to reduce light pollution 'backed by CPRE survey'
Most people feel their view of the night sky is spoiled by artificial light, a survey suggests.
Continue reading " Calls to reduce light pollution 'backed by CPRE survey' "
April 6, 2010
FSB calls for better information for firms to go green
The Government needs to provide better information to small businesses to help them go green, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said this week.
Continue reading " FSB calls for better information for firms to go green "
March 22, 2010
European Commission clamps down on PM10 particles
The European Commission has revealed that it is pursuing infringement proceedings against five countries that have failed to comply with the EU's air quality standards for dangerous airborne particles known as PM10. These particles, emitted mainly by industry, traffic and domestic heating, can cause asthma, cardiovascular problems, lung cancer and premature death.
Continue reading " European Commission clamps down on PM10 particles "
March 19, 2010
Green skills shortage highlighted by report
The first research into skills shortages in park and other open space management roles reveals a worrying lack of trained staff.
Continue reading " Green skills shortage highlighted by report "
March 13, 2010
Aldersgate chairman outlines evolving markets and policy drivers
The general election will not dramatically shape the future of environmental policy, regardless of the outcome and the UK's efforts to stimulate environmental markets are likely to be eclipsed globally by the direction decided on by the USA.
Continue reading " Aldersgate chairman outlines evolving markets and policy drivers "
February 26, 2010
Vast iceberg 'may disrupt ocean currents'
A vast iceberg which broke off the Antarctic continent this month could disrupt the world's ocean currents and weather patterns, scientists warn.
Continue reading " Vast iceberg 'may disrupt ocean currents' "
February 16, 2010
Government warned over Heathrow pollution
Wandsworth Council has warned that the government could face daily fines after allowing air pollution at Heathrow to breach European limits.
Continue reading " Government warned over Heathrow pollution "
February 3, 2010
Free green building advice for London businesses
Businesses in London are being offered free advice on how to improve the environmental performance of the buildings they own or operate from.
Continue reading " Free green building advice for London businesses "
New civil enforcement powers for green watchdogs
For the first time in the UK two green watchdogs have been given civil enforcement powers to help them in the fight against environmental crime.
Continue reading " New civil enforcement powers for green watchdogs "
November 19, 2009
Newcastle 'greenest' British city
Newcastle upon Tyne has been named as Britain's greenest city in a think tank's annual study.
Continue reading " Newcastle 'greenest' British city "
November 11, 2009
Money does grow on trees
Investors looking to make a profit from the latest environmental technology are putting their cash into trees.
Continue reading " Money does grow on trees "
October 26, 2009
'Freezer plan' bid to save coral
The prospects of saving the world's coral reefs now appear so bleak that plans are being made to freeze samples to preserve them for the future.
Continue reading " 'Freezer plan' bid to save coral "
October 7, 2009
Warning over River Trent cyanide
The deadly chemical cyanide and a quantity of raw sewage have leaked into a 30-mile stretch of the River Trent in Staffordshire.
Continue reading " Warning over River Trent cyanide "
September 22, 2009
UK rivers failing new EU standard
Three-quarters of rivers in England and Wales fall below a new European environmental standard, according to a report from the Environment Agency.
Continue reading " UK rivers failing new EU standard "
September 18, 2009
Green groups urging joint action
Eight of the UK's leading environmental groups have joined forces to urge political parties to adopt a joint approach on green issues.
Continue reading " Green groups urging joint action "
September 15, 2009
Research suggests nitrous oxide has significant ozone-depleting potential
According to a team of US researchers from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), nitrous oxide is the single most important man-made substance reducing ozone in the atmosphere.
Continue reading " Research suggests nitrous oxide has significant ozone-depleting potential "
September 3, 2009
Green pledge campaign launches
A new environmental campaign, backed by a variety of businesses and celebrities, is launching on Tuesday.
Continue reading " Green pledge campaign launches "
September 1, 2009
Health and safety issues prevent small companies acting on enviromental concerns
Dealing with employment issues, as well as health and safety, is preventing small businesses from acting on their environmental concerns, and saving money in the process, the Forum of Private Business (FPB) and the UK200Group warned this week.
August 26, 2009
Trees advance in a warming world
Trees around the world are colonising new territories in response to higher temperatures.
Continue reading " Trees advance in a warming world "
August 21, 2009
Plastics break down fast in ocean
Plastics decompose with surprising speed in the oceans, releasing contaminants into the water, according to new research.
Continue reading " Plastics break down fast in ocean "
August 17, 2009
Green domain sparks war of words
The battle to take control of a new internet domain aimed at environmental groups has escalated.
Continue reading " Green domain sparks war of words "
July 23, 2009
£1bn plan to electrify rail line
A £1bn plan to electrify the main rail route between London and Swansea has been announced by the government.
Continue reading " £1bn plan to electrify rail line "
July 8, 2009
Eco-school opens on Anglesey
Green building techniques are at the heart of the design of a new school on the Welsh island of Anglesey.
Continue reading " Eco-school opens on Anglesey "
July 3, 2009
Mixed results for green IT goals
A majority of public sector employees do not know about environmentally friendly IT targets set out in government's Greening ICT Strategy.
Continue reading " Mixed results for green IT goals "
July 2, 2009
Reduced environmental permit costs will benefit small businesses
Environment Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick, has said that small and medium-sized businesses will benefit from the reduced regulatory charges announced by the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Continue reading " Reduced environmental permit costs will benefit small businesses "
Mobile pollution sensors deployed
Cyclists, buses, cars and even pedestrians will become mobile pollution detectors in an initiative launched on Tuesday.
Continue reading " Mobile pollution sensors deployed "
July 1, 2009
Sears tower to get $350m green makeover
The iconic Sears Tower is to be transformed into a beacon of sustainability with a multi-million dollar green makeover.
Continue reading " Sears tower to get $350m green makeover "
EU votes to limit emissions from polluters
Tough new rules on European emissions have been agreed by senior politicians at a summit in Luxembourg.
Continue reading " EU votes to limit emissions from polluters "
Most complete Earth map published
The most complete terrain map of the Earth's surface has been published.
Continue reading " Most complete Earth map published "
June 29, 2009
Agency launches "Only Rain Down The Drain" campaign
The Environment Agency is to launch a campaign at the Lincolnshire Show next week aimed at preventing pollution through surface water drains. The campaign's symbol will be a yellow fish bearing the message "Only Rain Down The Drain".
Continue reading " Agency launches "Only Rain Down The Drain" campaign "
June 25, 2009
London's pollution causing decreased lung capacity in children
Early findings from a study underway at the Centre for Paediatrics at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry indicates that the lung capacity of 8- and 9-year-olds is 5% worse in London than the national
standard, probably as a result of the air particles created by traffic pollution.
Continue reading " London's pollution causing decreased lung capacity in children "
June 19, 2009
Report claims shiftworkers recieve 'second class safety'
A new report by an academic at the University of Stirling claims that shiftworkers in the UK are facing serious health risks and receiving "second class safety" because the HSE "clocks off" outside normal office hours.
Continue reading " Report claims shiftworkers recieve 'second class safety' "
June 10, 2009
Mixed election results for Greens in UK and Ireland
The Green Party was all but wiped off the political map in Ireland in this week's elections, though it enjoyed a slight resurgence in the UK.
Continue reading " Mixed election results for Greens in UK and Ireland "
June 8, 2009
Environment Agency is 'greenest public sector organisation'
The government agency tasked with keeping business on the straight and narrow when it comes to environmental performance has shown it can practice what it preaches, according to the Sunday Times Green List.
Continue reading " Environment Agency is 'greenest public sector organisation' "
May 19, 2009
Go green boss Martin Heatley's £8,500 expenses claim
A Council's ‘Go Green' boss has come under fire for clocking up thousands of pounds in mileage – in his gas guzzling 4x4.
Continue reading " Go green boss Martin Heatley's £8,500 expenses claim "
May 18, 2009
London Eye to be 'eco-friendly'
The London Eye will become more environmentally friendly under a £12.5m upgrade, its operator has claimed.
Continue reading " London Eye to be 'eco-friendly' "
May 11, 2009
Obama keeps Bush polar bear rules
The US government has opted to retain a Bush-era rule that limits protection for polar bears from the effects of global warming.
Continue reading " Obama keeps Bush polar bear rules "
April 13, 2009
City air pollution 'shortens life'
It has taken a quarter of a century, but US researchers say their work has finally enabled them to determine to what extent city air pollution impacts on average life expectancy.
Continue reading " City air pollution 'shortens life' "
March 19, 2009
Global crisis 'to strike by 2030'
Growing world population will cause a "perfect storm" of food, energy and water shortages by 2030, the UK government chief scientist is warning.
Continue reading " Global crisis 'to strike by 2030' "
January 30, 2009
'Green' light bulb fears rejected
The government has rejected claims that partially-sighted people will suffer when new low energy light bulbs are introduced across the UK.
Continue reading " 'Green' light bulb fears rejected "
January 29, 2009
Government wins third runway vote
The government has won a vote over plans for Heathrow's third runway - but saw its majority cut to just 19.
Continue reading " Government wins third runway vote "
January 27, 2009
Emperor penguins face extinction
Emperor penguins, whose long treks across Antarctic ice to mate have been immortalised by Hollywood, are heading towards extinction, scientists say.
Continue reading " Emperor penguins face extinction "
January 19, 2009
State of the World 2009 published
The State of the World reports of the Worldwatch Institute have evolved into a useful source of information on the state of the planet and the links between human systems, ecosystems and natural resources.
Continue reading " State of the World 2009 published "
January 14, 2009
Euro MPs back pesticide controls
The European Parliament has voted to tighten rules on pesticide use and ban at least 22 chemicals deemed harmful to human health.
Continue reading " Euro MPs back pesticide controls "
January 8, 2009
Green parking plan to be extended
A London council has announced plans to extend a scheme that charges the most polluting vehicles more to park.
Continue reading " Green parking plan to be extended "
January 7, 2009
EA and Oxfam urge people to donate
During the festive season, the Environment Agency and Oxfam have been urging people in the UK to ensure their unwanted clothes, books and household items are donated to charity shops. They claim such charitable action can also help the environment.
Continue reading " EA and Oxfam urge people to donate "
US vows 'huge' marine protection
The US is to establish what it calls "the largest area of protected sea in the world" around its Pacific islands.
Continue reading " US vows 'huge' marine protection "
December 15, 2008
Envirowise warns against "greenwash"
Sustainable business expert, Envirowise, has warned companies not to get carried away by "greenwash", ie building a pro-environment image and "talking up" the environmental credentials of a product, service or process without providing appropriate evidence.
Continue reading " Envirowise warns against "greenwash" "
December 1, 2008
Environment Agency launches anti-pollution campaign
The Environment Agency has launched an anti-pollution campaign following a series of pollution incidents at the Holton Heath Industrial Estate near Poole Harbour.
Continue reading " Environment Agency launches anti-pollution campaign "
November 20, 2008
Fat cat ministers' £7m car bill
Government fat cats spend £7.16million a year on chauffeur-driven ministerial cars. And each one costs an average £73,000 to run – that's 15 times more than the average motorist's bill!
Continue reading " Fat cat ministers' £7m car bill "
October 29, 2008
Earth on course for eco 'crunch'
The planet is headed for an ecological "credit crunch", according to a report issued by conservation groups.
Continue reading " Earth on course for eco 'crunch' "
October 23, 2008
Two jailed over Ivorian pollution
A court in Ivory Coast has sentenced two people to 20 years and five years in jail for dumping hundreds of tonnes of toxic waste in Abidjan in 2006.
Continue reading " Two jailed over Ivorian pollution "
October 10, 2008
Transport remains a major source of air pollutants
Road transport remains the single main source of a number of harmful pollutants, according
to a recent report from the European Environment Agency.
Continue reading " Transport remains a major source of air pollutants "
September 30, 2008
Barack Obama and John McCain on climate change, energy and science
To find out where Republicans and Democrats stand Presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain were invited by Nature magazine to answer a range of questions on science, energy and climate change.
Continue reading " Barack Obama and John McCain on climate change, energy and science "
September 24, 2008
UN forecasts boom in 'green jobs'
The UN says millions of new jobs will be created worldwide over the next few decades by the development of alternative energy technologies.
Continue reading " UN forecasts boom in 'green jobs' "
September 10, 2008
London mayor appoints green Tsar
A director of Transport for London's policy unit is to take charge of the environmental brief at City Hall, with the aim of delivering on the raft of green commitments made by the mayor.
Continue reading " London mayor appoints green Tsar "
Small businesses save £58m by going green
The combined savings made by businesses using the government-backed environmental advice website NetRegs are in the region of £58m.
Continue reading " Small businesses save £58m by going green "
September 3, 2008
Beijing air measures 'must stay'
Beijing residents are becoming increasingly vocal about their demands to keep emergency measures introduced for the Olympic Games.
Continue reading " Beijing air measures 'must stay' "
August 27, 2008
Wind farms put pressure on bats
Bats are at risk from wind turbines, researchers have found, because the rotating blades produce a change in air pressure that can kill the mammals.
Continue reading " Wind farms put pressure on bats "
August 18, 2008
Prince 'must prove anti-GM claim'
The environment minister has challenged Prince Charles to prove his claim that GM crops could cause a global environmental disaster.
Continue reading " Prince 'must prove anti-GM claim' "
August 14, 2008
Carbon footprint enters the dictionary
"Carbon footprint", "eco-village" and "electrosmog" are among the new environmental terms which have made it into the latest Chambers Dictionary.
Continue reading " Carbon footprint enters the dictionary "
August 13, 2008
Charles in GM 'disaster' warning
Companies developing genetically modified crops risk creating the biggest environmental disaster "of all time", Prince Charles has warned.
Continue reading " Charles in GM 'disaster' warning "
August 4, 2008
Brazil launches rainforest fund
Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva has launched an international fund to protect the Amazon rainforest and help combat climate change.
Continue reading " Brazil launches rainforest fund "
July 29, 2008
Lingering pollution worries China
China has admitted it could introduce further emergency measures to cut air pollution during the Olympic Games.
Continue reading " Lingering pollution worries China "
July 18, 2008
Climate change: US environmental agency delays emissions regulation until end of Bush term
The US environmental protection agency (EPA) announced today that no action will be taken to regulate carbon emissions while George Bush remains president.
July 9, 2008
Beijing 'failing pollution test'
Just a month before the start of the Beijing Olympics, the city is still failing to meet international air quality standards, the BBC has found.
Continue reading " Beijing 'failing pollution test' "
June 9, 2008
Natural lab shows sea's acid path
Natural carbon dioxide vents on the sea floor are showing scientists how carbon emissions will affect marine life.
Continue reading " Natural lab shows sea's acid path "
June 5, 2008
Images reveal 'rapid forest loss'
High-resolution satellite images have revealed the "rapid deforestation" of Papua New Guinea's biodiversity rich rainforests over the past 30 years.
Continue reading " Images reveal 'rapid forest loss' "
May 27, 2008
Row over UK involvement in Environmental Transformation Fund
A row has erupted over the question of the UK's international funding for developing countries via its Environmental Transformation Fund (ETF).
Continue reading " Row over UK involvement in Environmental Transformation Fund "
May 25, 2008
Defra: living within our environmental means is more important than ever
Publishing his department's Annual Report, Environment Secretary Hilary Benn reaffirmed Defra's commitment to helping people live within their environmental means and acknowledged the role of staff in some key achievements over the past year.
Continue reading " Defra: living within our environmental means is more important than ever "
May 23, 2008
Japan environment chief says industry may face tough pollution limits
Japan will have to impose carbon taxes and other tough measures on the industrial sector to meet its long-term goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the environment minister said Wednesday.
Continue reading " Japan environment chief says industry may face tough pollution limits "
May 9, 2008
London's air quality 'not improved' by congestion charge
The London congestion charge has done little to improve air quality in the capital, researchers said today.
Continue reading " London's air quality 'not improved' by congestion charge "
May 3, 2008
Fungi to fight 'toxic war zones'
Fungi could help clean up toxic war zones, scientists at a Scottish university have discovered.
Continue reading " Fungi to fight 'toxic war zones' "
April 3, 2008
Greens fear 'weak' Marine Bill
The government is due to publish its long-awaited Marine Bill, designed to regulate better the various activities taking place in UK waters.
Continue reading " Greens fear 'weak' Marine Bill "
March 30, 2008
Cities switch off for environment
Cities around the world have been turning out the lights for an hour to highlight the threat of climate change.
Continue reading " Cities switch off for environment "
Call for curbs on Antarctic ships
Environmental campaigners are calling for greater restrictions on shipping around Antarctica in order to prevent damage to its unique ecosystems.
Continue reading " Call for curbs on Antarctic ships "
March 28, 2008
Warning on plastic's toxic threat
Plastic waste in the oceans poses a potentially devastating long-term toxic threat to the food chain, according to marine scientists.
Continue reading " Warning on plastic's toxic threat "
March 19, 2008
Londoners support congestion charge
The majority of Londoners are in favour of Mayor Ken Livingstone's decision to charge up to £25 for high-emissions vehicles within the congestion charge zone, according to a new survey.
Continue reading " Londoners support congestion charge "
March 13, 2008
US tightens air quality standards
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US is tightening air quality standards in an effort to help improve public health.
Continue reading " US tightens air quality standards "
March 10, 2008
Thou shall not pollute, Vatican decrees
Polluting the environment, and becoming ridiculously wealthy while doing so, are two of the new deadly sins unveiled by the Vatican.
Continue reading " Thou shall not pollute, Vatican decrees "
March 3, 2008
China to log its worst polluters
China has begun an ambitious project to survey the country's major sources of pollution.
Continue reading " China to log its worst polluters "
Report claims transport ploicy is bad for environment and motrorist
A new report published by the Green Alliance and the Campaign for Better Transport claims that the method used by the authorities to decide whether to give transport projects the go-ahead is bad for the environment and bad for the motorist.
Continue reading " Report claims transport ploicy is bad for environment and motrorist "
February 28, 2008
Coventry City Council planning new Coventry forests
Coventry City Council has issued a rallying call to 'green up' Coventry by planting 10,000 trees a year.
Continue reading " Coventry City Council planning new Coventry forests "
Green Radiohead avoid Glastonbury
Radiohead say they will not play at Glastonbury this summer because poor public transport to the festival has a negative impact on the environment.
Continue reading " Green Radiohead avoid Glastonbury "
February 13, 2008
'Gas guzzlers' C-charge up to £25
The highest polluting vehicles will pay a daily charge of £25 to enter the congestion charge zone, London Mayor Ken Livingstone has announced.
Continue reading " 'Gas guzzlers' C-charge up to £25 "
February 6, 2008
Europe push for greener aviation
Some of the biggest names in European industry have begun a public-private partnership with the EU to produce greener aircraft.
Continue reading " Europe push for greener aviation "
January 23, 2008
UK 'to ignore' EU pollution plea
The government will ignore a plea from the EU to create a clean technology fund from a levy on pollution.
Continue reading " UK 'to ignore' EU pollution plea "
January 7, 2008
Britons rather lose weight than save planet
When it comes to making new year's resolutions, Britons are more worried about losing weight than saving the planet, according to a new survey.
Continue reading " Britons rather lose weight than save planet "
January 3, 2008
Green fatigue and ambivalence in overloaded world?
British people are now convinced about the dangers of global warming but are either baffled about how to stop it or are ignoring the issue.
Continue reading " Green fatigue and ambivalence in overloaded world? "
January 2, 2008
Beijing 'meets pollution target'
Officials in China's capital Beijing say clear skies on the last day of the year mean that Beijing has surpassed an air pollution target for 2007.
Continue reading " Beijing 'meets pollution target' "
Low emission zones for Italy & Germany
Three German cities introduced legislation against the most-polluting cars yesterday, barring them from downtown districts marked as environmental zones and drivers will have to pay a "pollution charge" to enter Milan's city centre from Wednesday in what the Italian financial capital bills as a trend-setting way to cut smog.
Continue reading " Low emission zones for Italy & Germany "
November 15, 2007
Eco-ruin 'felled early society'
One of Western Europe's earliest known urban societies may have sown the seeds of its own downfall, a study suggests.
Continue reading " Eco-ruin 'felled early society' "
November 10, 2007
Being 'green' is now a socially acceptable norm
The main motivation for an environmentally friendly lifestyle is guilt about harming the environment, reveals a new report published by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Continue reading " Being 'green' is now a socially acceptable norm "
November 9, 2007
Minister urges small businesses to think about the environment
A Government minister has said that it is vital that all small businesses in Ireland focus on corporate social responsibility and sustainable business practices.
Continue reading " Minister urges small businesses to think about the environment "
November 5, 2007
Most ready for 'green sacrifices'
Most people say they are ready to make personal sacrifices to address climate change, according to a BBC poll of 22,000 people in 21 countries.
Continue reading " Most ready for 'green sacrifices' "
October 31, 2007
Time magazine names eco-heroes
Time magazine has published its annual list of the year's heroes - but this year the line-up has focused on those dedicated to the environment.
Continue reading " Time magazine names eco-heroes "
October 30, 2007
Fireworks displays told to go green
Families and organisers of fireworks displays are being urged to make their November 5 celebrations as green as possible.
Continue reading " Fireworks displays told to go green "
October 29, 2007
Irish EPA offers funding for environmental technologies
Companies and researchers from Ireland have been invited to bid for research funding to help them develop new environmental technologies.
Continue reading " Irish EPA offers funding for environmental technologies "
France promises green revolution
Nicolas Sarkozy, the French President, has put a moratorium on the growing of genetically-modified crops and has announced plans to ban energy-wasting lightbulbs along with a raft of other concessions to the environment in a move which is supposed to put France in the vanguard of 'green' states on the international stage.
Continue reading " France promises green revolution "
France promises green revolution
Nicolas Sarkozy, the French President, has put a moratorium on the growing of genetically-modified crops and has announced plans to ban energy-wasting lightbulbs along with a raft of other concessions to the environment in a move which is supposed to put France in the vanguard of 'green' states on the international stage.
Continue reading " France promises green revolution "
October 26, 2007
Natural decline 'hurting lives'
Continuing destruction of the natural world is affecting the health, wealth and well-being of people around the globe, according to a major UN report.
Continue reading " Natural decline 'hurting lives' "
October 22, 2007
Construction of UK's first High Occupancy Vehicle motorway lane underway
Work has begun on a new pilot scheme to build the first section of a dedicated high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane on a UK motorway.
Continue reading " Construction of UK's first High Occupancy Vehicle motorway lane underway "
October 18, 2007
Environment Agency targets car washes
Car washes are the latest aspect of motoring to come under the environmental spotlight.
Continue reading " Environment Agency targets car washes "
October 16, 2007
Lack of clear guidance preventing small firms going green
Limited access to information, a lack of incentives and confusion over where to go for advice are stopping small businesses from becoming more environmentally-friendly, according to HSBC.
Continue reading " Lack of clear guidance preventing small firms going green "
October 15, 2007
UK supermarkets 'must go greener'
Supermarkets have gone "greener", but still need to do more to help customers reduce their environmental impact, according to a report.
Continue reading " UK supermarkets 'must go greener' "
Darling attacked on green agenda
Ministers have been accused of inadequate and inconsistent leadership over green issues in a strongly-worded attack by a leading environmentalist.
Continue reading " Darling attacked on green agenda "
October 8, 2007
Protesters block airport lounge
A group of about 12 environmental protesters has blocked an entrance to the departure lounge at Manchester International Airport Terminal Three.
Continue reading " Protesters block airport lounge "
October 3, 2007
US refinery agrees $48m to reduce pollution
An American oil refiner has agreed to invest more than $48m to upgrade pollution controls at three of its facilities.
Continue reading " US refinery agrees $48m to reduce pollution "
October 1, 2007
Top corporates come clean on how green their products are
Several leading companies have agreed to act as guinea pigs in a Government-backed scheme to highlight the carbon footprint of their products.
Continue reading " Top corporates come clean on how green their products are "
September 27, 2007
China dam 'catastrophe' warning
China's Three Gorges Dam could trigger an environmental catastrophe unless emerging problems are treated urgently, senior officials have warned.
Continue reading " China dam 'catastrophe' warning "
September 23, 2007
Lib-Dems claim green taxes "lowest for 25 years"
The Liberal Democrats claim that official figures they have obtained show that green taxes have fallen for the seventh successive year and are now at their lowest level of gross domestic product (GDP) for a quarter of a century.
Continue reading " Lib-Dems claim green taxes "lowest for 25 years" "
September 21, 2007
Businesses push for green accreditation
The number of UK businesses achieving environmental accreditation has grown significantly, new research has revealed.
Continue reading " Businesses push for green accreditation "
September 14, 2007
Ten 'most polluted places' named
A list of the world's most polluted places has been published by a US-based independent environmental group.
Continue reading " Ten 'most polluted places' named "
September 13, 2007
£1.2m to turn white van man green
Government has announced it will be spending an extra £1.2m on its Safe and Fuel Efficient Drivers (SAFED) scheme, targeting van drivers.
Continue reading " £1.2m to turn white van man green "
September 11, 2007
Tories would put up green taxes
David Cameron is set to announce plans for reform which would see an increase in green taxes levied and the proceeds used to reduce taxes elsewhere, was his party elected.
Continue reading " Tories would put up green taxes "
August 30, 2007
Early Opening for Antarctic Ozone Hole
The hole in the Antarctic ozone layer has emerged earlier than usual this year, but it is not yet clear whether the eventual annual depletion of the naturally occurring gas that filters out
cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) radiation will be as bad as recent years, the United Nations meteorological agency announced today.
Continue reading " Early Opening for Antarctic Ozone Hole "
August 22, 2007
Progress on pollution mixed – Chinese regulators
Environmental regulators in China have published pollution statistics which show that while some progress is being made at curbing the rise of certain pollutants, other toxic chemicals are still on the increase in the country.
Continue reading " Progress on pollution mixed – Chinese regulators "
August 17, 2007
Beijing trials car reduction plan
Beijing is noticeably less congested following the start of a four-day scheme to take 1.3 million vehicles off the road.
Continue reading " Beijing trials car reduction plan "
August 10, 2007
Black cabs hit back in congestion row
The manufacturer of London's black cab taxis has hit back at assertions that its vehicles should no longer be exempt from the congestion charge.
Continue reading " Black cabs hit back in congestion row "
August 8, 2007
Possible price hike for C-Charge gas guzzlers
Drivers of the most polluting cars could face paying over three times the current rate for London's congestion charge - an lose their exemption if they live within the boundaries of the chargeable zone.
Continue reading " Possible price hike for C-Charge gas guzzlers "
Europe seeks to turn environmental challenges into opportunities
The European Commission has launched a consultation to look at ways of turning environmental challenges into opportunities for industry.
Continue reading " Europe seeks to turn environmental challenges into opportunities "
August 2, 2007
BAA Proposed Injunction 'draconian' - London Mayor
An attempt to ban environmental activists from protesting at Heathrow Airport during the busy holiday period could be quashed, if London Mayor Ken Livingstone has his way.
Continue reading " BAA Proposed Injunction 'draconian' - London Mayor "
August 1, 2007
US border fences 'an eco-danger'
Mexico has urged the US to alter its plans for expanded fences along their shared border, saying they would damage the environment and harm wildlife.
Continue reading " US border fences 'an eco-danger' "
July 27, 2007
UK trade association challenges new Air Quality Strategy
Tackling air pollution on a local level is "crucial" if the UK wants to meet national air quality objectives set out by government, say the Environmental Industries Commission (EIC).
Continue reading " UK trade association challenges new Air Quality Strategy "
Environment Agency aims for greener pension fund
A pension fund management company noted for environmentally-friendly investment is to help handle the Environment Agency's £1.5 billion retirement savings.
Continue reading " Environment Agency aims for greener pension fund "
July 26, 2007
UK and France push for VAT cut on green goods
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and French President Nicolas Sarkozy have made a joint call for reduced value-added tax rates for products which are less environmentally damaging than their alternatives.
Continue reading " UK and France push for VAT cut on green goods "
Counting the cost of England's floods
Tax concessions and insurance payouts will go some way towards easing the heartbreak of those whose homes and businesses have been flooded in the worst weather for more than half a century, but how much will the crisis cost UK plc?
Continue reading " Counting the cost of England's floods "
July 25, 2007
Patio heater use 'set to double'
The number of patio heaters in gardens in Britain is expected to almost double over the next year, despite environmental fears, a report suggests.
Continue reading " Patio heater use 'set to double' "
July 23, 2007
Chinese local government ignoring national green agenda
While Beijing strives to appear to balance the economic and environmental needs of China, it's business as usual for many officials working in the provinces.
Continue reading " Chinese local government ignoring national green agenda "
July 18, 2007
Ryanair's green claims criticised
Ryanair has been ordered not to repeat an advertisement that played down the impact of aviation on the environment.
Continue reading " Ryanair's green claims criticised "
July 14, 2007
Bradshaw causes stink over nappies
There is 'little to no difference' in terms of environmental impact when it comes to choosing between cloth and disposable nappies, the former waste Minister has suggested.
Continue reading " Bradshaw causes stink over nappies "
July 11, 2007
Environmental sector set to flourish - Minister
Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks has told a gathering of industry insiders that he expects to see the British environmental sector boom in coming years as the wider business community comes to accept the pressing need for reduced emissions, waste and pollution.
Continue reading " Environmental sector set to flourish - Minister "
July 9, 2007
New funds to increase flood protections
The new Environment Secretary, Hilary Benn, has made a statement to Parliament confirming an increase in spending by the Government on flood risk management and flood defences, with spending due to rise from around £600 million in 2007 to £800 million by the end of the Comprehensive Spending Review period of 2010/11.
Continue reading " New funds to increase flood protections "
Boeing unveils Dreamliner plane
US plane manufacturer Boeing has unveiled its 787 Dreamliner - the firm's first all-new jet since 1995. It is the only big commercial aircraft made mostly of carbon fibre rather than aluminium and is billed as the most environmentally friendly ever built.
Continue reading " Boeing unveils Dreamliner plane "
June 30, 2007
Community service to benefit the environment
The traditional penal work of rock breaking and sewing of mail bags might be long gone but conservation schemes and carbon reduction initiatives are now taking their place as the type of activity convicted criminals can be expected to engage in as they pay their debt to society.
Continue reading " Community service to benefit the environment "
June 19, 2007
Contract signed on Earth observer
The European Space Agency (Esa) has ordered up the first bespoke spacecraft in its new global monitoring programme.
Continue reading " Contract signed on Earth observer "
June 14, 2007
Review confirms the need to reduce pollution from industrial installations
Emissions of certain industrial pollutants in the European Union are still increasing, according to a review published earlier this week by the European Commission and the European Environment Agency.
Continue reading " Review confirms the need to reduce pollution from industrial installations "
June 12, 2007
Consumers swayed by businesses’ environmental credentials
Businesses are being urged to implement environmental policies after a recent survey found that 70 per cent of consumers would boycott companies that do not reduce their impact on the environment.
Continue reading " Consumers swayed by businesses’ environmental credentials "
June 11, 2007
Oil companies must pay spills - Philippines
The Filipino government has introduced a law which will require all major companies which ship oil through the island nation's waters to pay into a fund which can be used to tackle future spills.
Continue reading " Oil companies must pay spills - Philippines "
June 10, 2007
Particulates tracked by satellite
American scientists have been using satellites to help gauge the levels of airborne particulate matter in an effort to build up a broader picture than might be possible with widely-scattered monitoring stations.
Continue reading " Particulates tracked by satellite "
June 8, 2007
World celebrates the environment
This week saw a host of celebrations around the world commemorating World Environment Day, June 6.
Continue reading " World celebrates the environment "
June 4, 2007
Europe gears up for Green Week
A beautiful Belgian park has been transformed to play host to an exhibition of some of the environmental inventions and gadgets which could shape our future, as the European Commission prepares for its annual Green Week.
Continue reading " Europe gears up for Green Week "
Consumers say 'greenness' matters
Most consumers claim that the green credentials of an item will influence their decision on whether or not to buy it, according to a survey on environmental branding.
Continue reading " Consumers say 'greenness' matters "
June 1, 2007
New EU chemical law takes effect
Legislation requiring the safety testing of tens of thousands of chemicals - many in everyday use - has come into effect across the EU.
Continue reading " New EU chemical law takes effect "
May 14, 2007
Thumbs up for London's Low Emission Zone
Polluting lorries are to be targeted by Ken Livingstone's latest attempt to improve London's air quality.
Continue reading " Thumbs up for London's Low Emission Zone "
May 12, 2007
China shuts down 3,000 polluters
Chinese authorities have closed down over 3,000 companies for violations of laws designed to limit industrial pollution.
Continue reading " China shuts down 3,000 polluters "
How green is Blair's legacy?
As Tony Blair looks forward to retiring to the back benches, green campaigners and politicians have lashed out at the legacy he leaves behind, but has his reign been as bad for the environment as they would have us believe?
Continue reading " How green is Blair's legacy? "
May 9, 2007
Canada tightens net on marine polluters
The newly-elected Canadian government has announced plans to beef up its regulation of marine pollution, bringing the country's laws in line with the toughest international standards.
Continue reading " Canada tightens net on marine polluters "
May 3, 2007
'Green eye' tech centre launched
A new space innovation centre in the UK will lead the development of novel technologies to monitor our planet.
Continue reading " 'Green eye' tech centre launched "
April 27, 2007
IT industry 'as polluting as aviation'
The global IT and communications industry produces as much carbon emissions as aviation, US analysts have said.
Continue reading " IT industry 'as polluting as aviation' "
April 25, 2007
Save water and energy, business will be told
Cutting water consumption is often overlooked by business in the rush to drive down carbon emissions but companies are missing a trick, according to an organisation set up to provide environmental advice to the private sector.
Continue reading " Save water and energy, business will be told "
April 24, 2007
Demolition derby leads to pollution fine
An IT company has been fined £124,000 after it torched cars used in a demolition derby put on as corporate entertainment.
Continue reading " Demolition derby leads to pollution fine "
April 23, 2007
Small solutions to transport woe benefit environment
Small is often beautiful when looking for projects which could help Britain's transport system going into meltdown, and that is good news for the environment.
Continue reading " Small solutions to transport woe benefit environment "
April 19, 2007
French postal service to go electric
La Poste, France's state-owned mail service, has announced plans to replace a significant chunk of its fleet with electric vehicles - making it the largest single supporter of the technology in the world.
Continue reading " French postal service to go electric "
April 18, 2007
Ethanol cars may not be healthier
Ethanol vehicles may have worse effects on human health than conventional petrol, US scientists have warned.
Continue reading " Ethanol cars may not be healthier "
April 16, 2007
Yangtze pollution 'irreversible'
Large parts of China's longest river, the Yangtze, have been irreversibly polluted, state media quotes a report as saying.
Continue reading " Yangtze pollution 'irreversible' "
April 5, 2007
Lenovo tops eco-friendly ranking
Chinese computer maker Lenovo has topped a ranking of the world's most eco-friendly electronics firms.
Continue reading " Lenovo tops eco-friendly ranking "
April 3, 2007
US 'must regulate car pollution'
The highest court in the US has ruled that the government was wrong to say it did not have the power to regulate exhaust gases from new cars and trucks.
Continue reading " US 'must regulate car pollution' "
March 28, 2007
Environmental campaign groups have had a mixed reaction to Gordon Brown's 2007 Budget
The WWF have produced an environmental report card for the Chancellor, which concluded that while the Chancellor passed his environmental test, he did so with a "must try harder" B- "Eco grade" overall.
March 26, 2007
Massive fine for polluting refinery
A refinery in Memphis, Tennessee has agreed to pay $2.2 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Clean Air Act.
Continue reading " Massive fine for polluting refinery "
March 21, 2007
Budget promotes green homes and cars
Gordon Brown's 2007 Budget, widely heralded as green long before its publication on Tuesday, focused on energy efficient homes and cars but critics said it failed to seriously take on climate change.
Continue reading " Budget promotes green homes and cars "
March 20, 2007
Budget report 'not green enough'
The chancellor's pre-Budget report fell far short of measures needed to tackle global warming seriously, an influential committee of MPs has said.
Continue reading " Budget report 'not green enough' "
March 17, 2007
Call for Spain strawberry boycott
A campaign group has urged consumers to avoid buying strawberries grown in Spain in winter because, it says, they damage the environment.
Continue reading " Call for Spain strawberry boycott "
March 12, 2007
Oil companies agree to work on environmental impact
The oil and gas industry has become the latest sector in the USA to sign up to a voluntary agreement designed to reduce its environmental impact.
Continue reading " Oil companies agree to work on environmental impact "
Parties battle over green agenda
Chancellor Gordon Brown and Conservative leader David Cameron will battle for leadership of the green agenda as they outline rival visions.
Continue reading " Parties battle over green agenda "
Light pollution 'masking stars'
A growing number of people are unable to see the night sky because of glare from poorly-designed outdoor lights in built up areas, a survey suggests.
Continue reading " Light pollution 'masking stars' "
March 8, 2007
Whitehall 'fails on eco-targets'
UK government departments failed to meet targets on cutting carbon emissions, waste and water use last year, a watchdog's annual report says.
Continue reading " Whitehall 'fails on eco-targets' "
March 6, 2007
Global impact of Asia's pollution
Industrial pollution coming from Asia is having a wider effect on global weather and climate than previously realised, research suggests.
Continue reading " Global impact of Asia's pollution "
March 5, 2007
Environment important for News Zealand's consumers
Almost three-quarters of New Zealand shoppers claim would walk away from a product if they did not approve of its manufacturer's environmental performance.
Continue reading " Environment important for News Zealand's consumers "
Capitalists keen to cash in on clean tech
Investment in environmental technologies doubled last year, according to research published by leading finance houses.
Continue reading " Capitalists keen to cash in on clean tech "
March 2, 2007
Many Britons 'too busy to care' about environment
While most Britons believe they are clued up on environmental issues, as many as one in five is too busy to care.
Continue reading " Many Britons 'too busy to care' about environment "
February 26, 2007
Huge polar study about to begin
The largest polar research programme for 50 years gets under way this week.
Continue reading " Huge polar study about to begin "
February 24, 2007
No tax breaks for toxics urge NGOs
Environmental groups are calling on India and Japan not to pave the way for simple shipment of toxic materials as the two countries hammer out a trade agreement which will see duty dropped on a wide range of goods.
Continue reading " No tax breaks for toxics urge NGOs "
Polish vote on controversial road
Poland will hold a referendum in its north-eastern region on whether to build a controversial road through an environmentally protected area.
Continue reading " Polish vote on controversial road "
February 22, 2007
Meacher to feature in Labour leadership race
Former Environment Minister Michael Meacher is set to challenge Chancellor Gordon Brown as leader of the Labour Party when Tony Blair steps down later this year.
Continue reading " Meacher to feature in Labour leadership race "
February 14, 2007
Ivory Coast toxic clean-up offer
Dutch-based oil trading group Trafigura is to pay the Ivorian government $198m (£102m) for a clean-up and inquiry after a"toxic waste" incident in 2006.
Continue reading " Ivory Coast toxic clean-up offer "
February 2, 2007
Environmental advisor sacked for being too green
Canada's eco-tsar has been sacked after calling on the government to take more action to address climate change.
Continue reading " Environmental advisor sacked for being too green "
January 29, 2007
Prince wins environmental award
The Prince of Wales has picked up an environmental award on the latest stage of his three-day tour of the US with his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall.
Continue reading " Prince wins environmental award "
January 28, 2007
Maximum penalty for Songhua polluter
The company responsible for the notorious 2005 benzene spill in China's Songhua River has been given the maximum fine allowed under environmental law.
Continue reading " Maximum penalty for Songhua polluter "
January 18, 2007
Chinese official urges eco-action but people apathetic
The vast majority of Chinese people think pollution is harming their health but few know how to report an environmental incident, nor would they bother doing so if they did.
Continue reading " Chinese official urges eco-action but people apathetic "
Futuristic automated bus unveiled
A model of a futuristic driverless bus which promises to cut pollution and congestion has been unveiled.
Continue reading " Futuristic automated bus unveiled "
January 16, 2007
Protection urged for UK sea life
Conservation scientists have identified eight "biodiversity hotspots" around Britain's coast which they say ought to be priorities for protection.
Continue reading " Protection urged for UK sea life "
People need incentives to bring green habits to work
While most employees make attempts to save energy and recycle at home, their environmental conscience tends to be less active once they get to work.
Continue reading " People need incentives to bring green habits to work "
January 12, 2007
Environmental stocks rocketed in 2006
The value of leading environmental technology companies almost tripled during the course of 2006, according to an organisation which tracks the value of eco-friendly firms.
Continue reading " Environmental stocks rocketed in 2006 "
January 11, 2007
Ivorian toxic waste victims to seek compensation
British lawyers representing victims of toxic waste contamination that left ten people dead and thousands ill in Cote d'Ivoire have started gathering evidence against the London-based shipping company behind the incident.
Continue reading " Ivorian toxic waste victims to seek compensation "
China fails environment targets
China is failing to meet new targets on energy efficiency and pollution emissions, officials said.
Continue reading " China fails environment targets "
January 10, 2007
Ganges too polluted for religious gathering
Hindu holy men could boycott a ceremony at the pinnacle of their religious calendar because the Ganges, the focus of the festival, is too polluted to bathe in.
Continue reading " Ganges too polluted for religious gathering "
January 7, 2007
'No proof' organic food is better
There is no evidence organic food is better for you than conventional food, minister David Miliband has said.
Continue reading " 'No proof' organic food is better "
January 6, 2007
Drill ban sought for Alaskan park
Legislation has been tabled in the United States aimed at making a ban on oil drilling at a wildlife refuge in Alaska permanent.
Continue reading " Drill ban sought for Alaskan park "
December 29, 2006
Eco-resolutions for a lean and green New Year
Staying fit, healthy and wealthy in the New Year while at the same time saving the planet is made easier with a green resolution list from Friends of the Earth.
Continue reading " Eco-resolutions for a lean and green New Year "
Eco-resolutions for a lean and green New Year
Staying fit, healthy and wealthy in the New Year while at the same time saving the planet is made easier with a green resolution list from Friends of the Earth.
Continue reading " Eco-resolutions for a lean and green New Year "
December 27, 2006
Promoting Water Efficiency in Homes
Proposals for minimum standards of water efficiency in new homes and commercial buildings in England and Wales have been published.
Continue reading " Promoting Water Efficiency in Homes "
Town 'too polluted' to take more homes
A scheme in Sowerby Bridge has stalled because the town has become a pollution hot spot. And there are fears that future developments in parts of Hebden Bridge and Halifax could also be affected by the new planning rules.
Continue reading " Town 'too polluted' to take more homes "
December 18, 2006
EA propose changes to effluent rules
The Environment Agency has launched a new consultation proposing to change the way that businesses, industries and organisations that discharge effluent into rivers and coastal waters are regulated.
Continue reading " EA propose changes to effluent rules "
December 13, 2006
New European chemical law passed
The European Parliament has backed a deal, reached with EU governments, on wide-ranging legislation to control the use of toxic chemicals in industry.
Continue reading " New European chemical law passed "
December 11, 2006
Nissan drives green car programme
Nissan Motor has revealed plans for a hybrid bio-ethanol powered car, as it sets about rebranding itself as an environmentally friendly carmaker.
Continue reading " Nissan drives green car programme "
December 7, 2006
'Green' tax plans fail to impress
Environmental taxes announced by Chancellor Gordon Brown have failed to impress opposition parties, businesses and green campaigners.
Continue reading " 'Green' tax plans fail to impress "
November 23, 2006
Plastic paper to 'cut' emissions
Toshiba has developed a printer that uses plastic "paper" that can be re-used hundreds of times.
Continue reading " Plastic paper to 'cut' emissions "
Environmental industries vital for 21st century society - Minister
The Minister with responsibility for climate change issues has praised the progress of the UK's environmental sector and said it will play a key role in years to come.
Continue reading " Environmental industries vital for 21st century society - Minister "
November 22, 2006
Defra defends use of consultants as Lib Dems lash out at overspend
The Liberal Democrats has accused cash-strapped Defra of squandering millions on unnecessary consultants' fees but the department has hit back, claiming the money was well spent.
Continue reading " Defra defends use of consultants as Lib Dems lash out at overspend "
November 14, 2006
Study hopeful for world's forests
A new technique for measuring the state of the world's forests shows the future may not be as bad as previously feared.
Continue reading " Study hopeful for world's forests "
Eco-industry not about green wash - Dimas
European Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas has dismissed arguments that doing business more sustainably hurts the wallet or that leading corporations with CSR policies are only trying to 'green wash' their activities.
Continue reading " Eco-industry not about green wash - Dimas "
November 13, 2006
Highland garages told to improve lax pollution control
The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) is blitzing garages in the Highlands to ensure they have adequate spill protection measures in place.
Continue reading " Highland garages told to improve lax pollution control "
October 29, 2006
Miliband draws up green tax plan
Environment Secretary David Miliband has confirmed the government is holding discussions on tackling climate change using green taxes.
Continue reading " Miliband draws up green tax plan "
October 27, 2006
BAE goes big on 'green' weapons
Reduced-lead bullets and recyclable explosives are among the developments being put forward by arms manufacturer British Aerospace (BAE) as part of a major investment in ecologically-sound weaponry.
Continue reading " BAE goes big on 'green' weapons "
October 26, 2006
Petrol stations to recycle fumes
Busy petrol stations will be obliged to fit technology akin to a giant extractor fan in a bid to recycle wasted fumes and cut pollution.
Continue reading " Petrol stations to recycle fumes "
EU to punish environmental crimes
The EU has urged tough sanctions on companies that break a ban on shipping toxic waste to developing countries.
Continue reading " EU to punish environmental crimes "
October 24, 2006
Ozone hole is 'biggest on record'
This year's Antarctic ozone hole is the largest on record, according to US government scientists.
Continue reading " Ozone hole is 'biggest on record' "
October 19, 2006
World's pollution hotspots mapped
A US-based environmental charity has documented what it calls the 10 most polluted places on the planet.
Continue reading " World's pollution hotspots mapped "
October 17, 2006
Sulphur and nitrogen emissions continue to fall in western Europe
Western Europe and the Scandinavian members of the EU have seen a sharp drop in many airborne pollutants over the past 15 years, as the effect of years of air quality legislation are felt.
Continue reading " Sulphur and nitrogen emissions continue to fall in western Europe "
October 16, 2006
Firms 'slow' on green standards
Many large UK firms do not have systems in place to become more environmentally friendly despite good intentions on the issue, research has claimed.
Continue reading " Firms 'slow' on green standards "
October 11, 2006
Cabbie exhaust filters 'harmful'
New exhaust filters fitted to London's black cabs increase emissions, a group of drivers has claimed.
Continue reading " Cabbie exhaust filters 'harmful' "
October 10, 2006
Massive grant for traffic pollution monitoring
A new research project costing over £4 million will see universities across the UK team up to measure traffic's impact on air quality.
Continue reading " Massive grant for traffic pollution monitoring "
Polluter should pay every day, says top Chinese official
Polluting industrial facilities should be fined daily until they meet legal emissions standards, according to the chairman of China's national Environmental & Resources Protection Committee.
Continue reading " Polluter should pay every day, says top Chinese official "
October 9, 2006
Planet enters 'ecological debt'
Rising consumption of natural resources means that humans began "eating the planet" on 9 October, a study suggests.
Continue reading " Planet enters 'ecological debt' "
October 6, 2006
Endgame approaches for REACH debate
They have been seven years in the making, but the chemical regulations billed as the most complicated piece of legislation ever to come out of the EU will soon be completed.
Continue reading " Endgame approaches for REACH debate "
October 4, 2006
Cement firm fined for polluting
A cement plant's owners have been fined £400,000 after homes were polluted.
Continue reading " Cement firm fined for polluting "
Green taxes needed to fight "hot war" say Tories
Stepping up the green rhetoric at their conference in Bournemouth this week, the Conservatives have been keen to show that they are the best bet for the environment while maintaining their traditional position as the business party.
Continue reading " Green taxes needed to fight "hot war" say Tories "
October 3, 2006
UN to study Lebanon environment
A team of experts co-ordinated by the UN is beginning an investigation into how the recent conflict with Israel has damaged Lebanon's environment.
Continue reading " UN to study Lebanon environment "
October 2, 2006
Major manufacturers commit to greening products
Following pilot projects sponsored by the European Commission two continental manufacturing giants have agreed to keep up the good work.
Continue reading " Major manufacturers commit to greening products "
September 24, 2006
Binding targets needed to save water
Water companies are saving no more than a mug of water per customer per year because of their failure to invest in household water efficiency, a report from an influential Labour think tank says.
Continue reading " Binding targets needed to save water "
September 23, 2006
School bus pollutants tackled
A fleet of school buses in Manchester has been fitted with anti-pollution devices in a bid to protect children from potentially deadly airborne particles.
Continue reading " School bus pollutants tackled "
September 22, 2006
Lib Dems fight for green votes
Britain's politicians were fighting over 'green' votes again this week, with the Lib Dems making green taxes a central theme of their annual conference and calling the increasingly green-tinged Tories a "glorified advertising agency."
Continue reading " Lib Dems fight for green votes "
September 21, 2006
Arms company on target for eco-friendly bullets
British weapons manufacturer BAE Systems is working on lead-free bullets and a range of other environmentally friendly armaments in an effort to reduce battlefield contamination and health risks for the armed forces.
Continue reading " Arms company on target for eco-friendly bullets "
September 20, 2006
Borough boosts business with BEST practice
A London borough has joined the growing number of local authorities taking steps to ensure businesses in their ward are getting the best possible environmental advice.
Continue reading " Borough boosts business with BEST practice "
September 18, 2006
Government quits over toxic waste scandal
The Prime Minister of the Ivory Coast has sacked his entire cabinet in what is the first instance of a government being brought down by an environmental scandal.
Continue reading " Government quits over toxic waste scandal "
September 15, 2006
Lebanon to sue Israel over air raid oil spill
The Lebanese Government has announced it plans to sue Israel for compensation for the oil spill which occurred during hostilities between the two countries when Israeli planes bombed a coastal power station, destroying its oil tanks and releasing their contents into the Mediterrenean.
Continue reading " Lebanon to sue Israel over air raid oil spill "
Trade unions must help save the planet - Miliband
Environment Minister David Miliband has told the TUC's annual congress that trade unions have a key role in the fight against climate change.
Continue reading " Trade unions must help save the planet - Miliband "
September 12, 2006
China ups tempo on pollution prosecutions
In an apparent attempt to demonstrate patience is wearing thin on pollution, China's Environmental Protection Agency has launched a series of high-profile prosecutions across the country.
Continue reading " China ups tempo on pollution prosecutions "
September 7, 2006
From atomic bomb site to nature reserve
A site once used for tests leading to the creation of the world's first atomic bomb has been made into a nature reserve in one of the most unusual regeneration projects in recent years.
Continue reading " From atomic bomb site to nature reserve "
August 24, 2006
Milan targets smog with road pollution toll
Milan is to follow in London's footsteps and introduce a congestion charge in an attempt to tackle severe air pollution and traffic jams, as road pricing measures are branded a worldwide environmental success.
Continue reading " Milan targets smog with road pollution toll "
August 23, 2006
Ozone hole stable, say scientists
Leading scientists in the United States say the hole in the ozone layer of the Earth's atmosphere above the Antarctic appears to have stopped widening.
Continue reading " Ozone hole stable, say scientists "
August 22, 2006
Top 100 eco-dilemmas for Britain
The impact of wind farms on eco-systems and the UK species likely to be wiped out by climate change were among Britain's top 100 ecological questions, as identified by environmental policy-makers in an innovative academic experiment.
Continue reading " Top 100 eco-dilemmas for Britain "
August 21, 2006
NOx drops but NO2 things aren't the same
Boffins puzzled by rising levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) despite a drop in nitrous oxide pollution in urban areas have published a report into what might be causing the phenomenon and are inviting others to comment on their ideas.
Continue reading " NOx drops but NO2 things aren't the same "
New standard in the ISO14000 stable
The International Standards Organisation has released a new tool designed to help businesses communicate their environmental credentials.
Continue reading " New standard in the ISO14000 stable "
August 16, 2006
Triple spills rival Exxon Valdez disaster
An oil spill caused by the Israeli bombing of a Lebanese power station during fighting has become just one of three major spills threatening the world's seas this week.
Continue reading " Triple spills rival Exxon Valdez disaster "
August 11, 2006
EU warns Poland over environment
Poland could face legal action and EU penalties for failing to "adequately protect" its natural habitats, a European Commission official has said.
Continue reading " EU warns Poland over environment "
August 9, 2006
Bright idea fails to generate spark of enthusiasm
Environmentalists urging the people of Hong Kong to switch off their lights in protest over the city's terrible air quality were disappointed by the limited response to their call.
Continue reading " Bright idea fails to generate spark of enthusiasm "
Campbell urges environment action
Lib Dem leader Sir Menzies Campbell has urged people to make greater use of energy efficient light bulbs - even though he does not have any himself.
Continue reading " Campbell urges environment action "
August 8, 2006
EA to get more coastal protection powers
The Environment Agency would take the lead in managing both sea flood risk and coastal erosion, taking over some responsibility from local authorities, under changes proposed in a Defra consultation on Monday.
Continue reading " EA to get more coastal protection powers "
'Damage is done' to Lebanon coast
Lebanon's coastline could take up to 10 years to recover from a massive oil spill, the nation's environment minister has said.
Continue reading " 'Damage is done' to Lebanon coast "
August 3, 2006
Ecological vibe at green festival
For all their hippy image, festivals are not necessarily good for the environment.
Continue reading " Ecological vibe at green festival "
August 1, 2006
Environmental 'crisis' in Lebanon
The United Nations Environment Programme (Unep) has expressed its "grave concern" about oil pollution in Lebanese coastal waters.
Continue reading " Environmental 'crisis' in Lebanon "
July 31, 2006
Employees take green habits to work
Environmentally conscious employees are helping companies keep carbon emissions, and costs, down by keeping in mind energy expenditure as they would in their own homes.
Continue reading " Employees take green habits to work "
July 27, 2006
Concern for Newbury bypass snail
A wildlife group says a species of snail that almost halted the building of the controversial Newbury bypass has become extinct on a nearby site.
Continue reading " Concern for Newbury bypass snail "
July 25, 2006
Ozone pollution monitoring goes online
For the first time internet users can monitor and track ground level ozone all over Europe at the click of a mouse.
Continue reading " Ozone pollution monitoring goes online "
July 18, 2006
China plan to protect environment
China plans to spend 1.4 trillion yuan ($175bn) over the next five years on protecting its environment.
Continue reading " China plan to protect environment "
July 14, 2006
New powers for London Mayor give clear steer for environment
Ken Livingstone may not have quite got the independent city state he jokingly claimed to have wanted, but Westminster proposals giving more self governance to the capital will transfer a raft of new powers to the Mayor and Greater London Authority, many of which will impact on environmental policy.
Continue reading " New powers for London Mayor give clear steer for environment "
July 11, 2006
Finns focus on environment during EU presidency
Finland wants the European Union to take a closer look at what it considers the most pressing environmental concern facing the planet - the unsustainable consumption of natural resources - and that means businesses will be expected to boost their efficiency.
Continue reading " Finns focus on environment during EU presidency "
July 7, 2006
EU ban on toxic electrics kicks in
A European directive banning a range of poisonous metals and chemicals from use in electrical and electronic devices came into effect at the beginning of July, promising to deliver a slightly healthier environment and population.
Continue reading " EU ban on toxic electrics kicks in "
July 1, 2006
EA waters down 'low impact' criteria
New regulations will make it easier for industrial installations to qualify as having a low environmental impact - leading to reduced charges from the Environment Agency.
Continue reading " EA waters down 'low impact' criteria "
June 30, 2006
Cool light leads to greener chips
A technique that could lead to cheap, environmentally-friendly microchips has been developed by UK researchers.
Continue reading " Cool light leads to greener chips "
June 26, 2006
Humans 'destroying coastal life'
Human activity has had a devastating effect on coasts since Roman times, research suggests.
Continue reading " Humans 'destroying coastal life' "
June 15, 2006
New lobby urges Government to wake up to green business opportunities
A lobby group launched this week has handed Government a report which argues that the environment vs competitiveness debate is a red herring and sustainable business is vital for economic growth.
Continue reading " New lobby urges Government to wake up to green business opportunities "
June 14, 2006
Pollution diagnostics hit city streets
New equipment to monitor the impact of traffic on urban pollution is to be demonstrated to experts in London next week.
Continue reading " Pollution diagnostics hit city streets "
Homes to be energy-saving rated
Every house sold in England and Wales will be given an energy efficiency rating like those found on electrical goods, the government will announce.
Continue reading " Homes to be energy-saving rated "
June 13, 2006
USA leads coalition to scupper chemical laws
Diplomats from around the world are asking the EU to rethink its controversial chemical laws which they say will disrupt trade while failing to protect the environment.
Continue reading " USA leads coalition to scupper chemical laws "
NASA's green science budget slashed and burned
NASA has been hacking away at its budget for environmental research projects in a recent round of book balancing, but says its Shuttle programme is still on track
Continue reading " NASA's green science budget slashed and burned "
June 12, 2006
Major US bank promotes green transport
A leading US high street bank is offering cash incentives to employees who purchase a hybrid vehicle.
Continue reading " Major US bank promotes green transport "
Promise the Earth for World Environment Day
Environmentalists attempted to smash a world record in Trafalgar Square on Monday in an effort to promote World Environment Day.
Continue reading " Promise the Earth for World Environment Day "
June 5, 2006
'Eco-ebay' gets royal seal of approval
A Belgian Prince is doing his bit for the environment by promoting a website designed to stimulate the market for recycled materials and the goods which are made from them.
Continue reading " 'Eco-ebay' gets royal seal of approval "
May 31, 2006
Pollution risks Yangtze's 'death'
The Yangtze, China's longest river, is "cancerous" with pollution, reports in the country's state media have said.
Continue reading " Pollution risks Yangtze's 'death' "
May 26, 2006
Rainforests 'still at great risk'
Most of the world's managed rainforests are still in great jeopardy with only 5% being treated in a sustainable way, a new report has said.
Continue reading " Rainforests 'still at great risk' "
May 23, 2006
Thinking beyond students in education for environmental technology
Education in environmental disciplines does not have to end when you leave the college gates and at the ET show in Birmingham the Open University's Dr Gordon Wilson talked about why continuing training and building up skills is vital for those in the industry.
Continue reading " Thinking beyond students in education for environmental technology "
May 22, 2006
River agency fined for pollution
River watchdog the Environment Agency has been fined £7,500 for polluting the River Exe, in Somerset.
Continue reading " River agency fined for pollution "
May 15, 2006
Triple show comes to Birmingham
The UK's biggest ever gathering of environment professionals is set to kick off in Birmingham this week.
Continue reading " Triple show comes to Birmingham "
May 10, 2006
Buncefield pollution minimal, concludes report
The latest report from the ongoing investigation into the explosion at the Buncefield oil depot last December says the environmental impact of the incident is not major.
Continue reading " Buncefield pollution minimal, concludes report "
Cabinet reshuffle means all change at Defra
Last week's cabinet clear out has left Defra with an almost entirely new line up of Ministers, with Ben Bradshaw the only one to escape the change.
Continue reading " Cabinet reshuffle means all change at Defra "
May 8, 2006
Weapons test site contamination needs more research
Research into the soil contamination of the UK's biggest weapons testing site will need several years' detailed research to complete, the Ministry of Defence has said.
Continue reading " Weapons test site contamination needs more research "
Builders target green belt land
Green belts around cities are under threat from companies buying up protected greenfield land for house-building, the Local Government Association has warned.
Continue reading " Builders target green belt land "
May 5, 2006
Miliband fills Beckett's shoes
Following Environment Minister Margaret Beckett's elevation to the foreign office in today's cabinet reshuffle, high flier David Miliband has been promoted to the role of Secretary of State for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs.
Continue reading " Miliband fills Beckett's shoes "
May 3, 2006
EA experiment raises questions over incinerator emissions
Trials of new technology designed to sample dioxin emissions have suggested existing techniques may miss the whole picture.
Continue reading " EA experiment raises questions over incinerator emissions "
April 25, 2006
Green mini-car to beat congestion
A tiny, three-wheeled car that could help solve city congestion has been demonstrated at the University of Bath.
Continue reading " Green mini-car to beat congestion "
April 19, 2006
Lib Dem leader bids Jaguar adieu
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Menzies Campbell says he has given up his beloved Jaguar car to highlight his commitment to the environment.
Continue reading " Lib Dem leader bids Jaguar adieu "
April 18, 2006
Wales consults on measures to cut air pollution
The Welsh Assembly Government has set out a package of measures designed to cut down on air pollution.
Continue reading " Wales consults on measures to cut air pollution "
April 10, 2006
Green TV channel goes on air
The world's first environmental broadband TV channel is now on air - and online - with films and programmes on everything from NO2 emissions around airports and offshore wind farms to "carbon speed dating."
Continue reading " Green TV channel goes on air "
April 9, 2006
More must be done to clean freshest air 'since industrial revolution'
Road tolls, cleaner technologies and leaving the car in the garage have all got a part to play in efforts to reduce air pollution, extend the average lifespan and cut costs of medical treatment, according to the Government.
Continue reading " More must be done to clean freshest air 'since industrial revolution' "
April 6, 2006
Public procurement favours 'cheapest and most polluting'
Government may claim to be putting the environment somewhere near the top of its agenda, but the reality is different, according to the Environmental Industries Commission. In a letter to Jonathon Porritt, chairman of the Sustainable Development Commission, the EIC says that in most cases, public sector building projects procure the cheapest and most polluting option; contain virtually no specific energy efficiency requirements in tender documents and in the vast majority, are awarded to the lowest bidder.
Continue reading " Public procurement favours 'cheapest and most polluting' "
April 4, 2006
Industrialists fight funding cut to eco-innovation
Environmentalists and industrialists are pleading with the European Commission not to slash funding for eco-innovation as it prepares to set its annual budget.
Continue reading " Industrialists fight funding cut to eco-innovation "
April 3, 2006
Environment 'key to aid policy'
More than 40 environmental and aid groups are calling on the UK Government to put the environment at the heart of its international development policy.
Continue reading " Environment 'key to aid policy' "
Green homes sell better, survey shows
Seven out of ten UK homebuyers would pay more for an energy-efficient home, and almost half are prepared to invest an extra £5-10,000 in an eco-house with advanced energy and water-saving features, new research reveals.
Continue reading " Green homes sell better, survey shows "
More mobile society makes bigger footprint on environment
Our increasingly mobile lifestyles come with a cost and as the number of journeys made by Europeans continues to rise we are causing more damage - and it is the environment which is picking up the tab.
Continue reading " More mobile society makes bigger footprint on environment "
March 30, 2006
No blank cheque to fight London air pollution
Efforts to clean London's air should be welcomed, but should not be embraced before setting a reasonable price tag.
Continue reading " No blank cheque to fight London air pollution "
March 28, 2006
Lula attacks rich on environment
Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva has criticised richer countries for not providing enough money to help preserve the variety of life on Earth.
Continue reading " Lula attacks rich on environment "
March 23, 2006
London's construction rush overlooks environment
In a rush to meet London's demand for new houses, the Mayor is not meeting his own environmental objectives, a London Assembly report claims.
Continue reading " London's construction rush overlooks environment "
"Europe must be at forefront of eco-innovation" - Dimas
Europe's Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas has told industrialists they must grasp the opportunities offered in developing eco-innovation and remain world leaders in the fast-growing field.
Continue reading " "Europe must be at forefront of eco-innovation" - Dimas "
How green was Brown's Budget?
Prudent politician that he is, Gordon Brown was unlikely to adopt the mantle of Swampy for his 10th Budget, despite the heavy trailing of its green tinge.
Continue reading " How green was Brown's Budget? "
March 20, 2006
Most UK airports miss EU pollution targets
The majority of British airports are way of target when it comes to keeping levels of nitrogen dioxide within safe limits, according to a new study.
Continue reading " Most UK airports miss EU pollution targets "
One stop shop to explain REACH regulations
The Chemical Industries Association has launched an online tool designed to explain at the click of a mouse what companies need to do to comply with the REACH regulations and how much it is likely to cost them.
Continue reading " One stop shop to explain REACH regulations "
February 27, 2006
Sunshine state goes green on gadgets
California is considering introducing new laws that would ban the use toxic materials in electronic devices such as mobile phones and iPods.
Continue reading " Sunshine state goes green on gadgets "
Britons could stomach green taxes says poll
According to a poll published last week the British public are ready to accept taxes that encourage environmentally friendly behaviour.
Continue reading " Britons could stomach green taxes says poll "
February 24, 2006
EU and US to cooperate in curbing car air conditioning emissions
Europe and America are to harmonise testing and engineering standards to curb emissions of greenhouse gases from car mobile air conditioning (MAC) systems, the European Commission announced today.
Continue reading " EU and US to cooperate in curbing car air conditioning emissions "
February 21, 2006
State of wildlife sites improving
Efforts to improve the condition of England's most important wildlife and geological sites appear to be paying off, a new report shows.
Continue reading " State of wildlife sites improving "
February 18, 2006
Bottled water big business but bad for environment
A surge in the global consumption of bottled water may be good news for those who are selling it but all too often the picture is less rosy for the environment and communities in parts of the developing world where drought is already commonplace.
Continue reading " Bottled water big business but bad for environment "
February 13, 2006
Tax and trading play increasing role in protecting environment
Market-based instruments are playing an increasing role in reducing damage to Europe's environment.
Continue reading " Tax and trading play increasing role in protecting environment "
February 6, 2006
Summit focuses on chemical usage
Environment ministers from around the world are meeting in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to discuss the rising use of man-made chemicals.
Continue reading " Summit focuses on chemical usage "
February 5, 2006
Birmingham public quizzed on air quality
Officials in the West Midlands are trying to engage the typical 'man in the street' to seek his views on air pollution and what might be done to reduce the problem.
Continue reading " Birmingham public quizzed on air quality "
Business can benefit from REACH
While Europe's efforts to implement coherent chemicals regulation within its borders have often looked like a battle of environmental concerns against those of industry the new-look rules might actually be good for business too.
Continue reading " Business can benefit from REACH "
January 29, 2006
Rain gardens 'cut city pollution'
"Rain gardens" can dramatically cut the amount of pollution in urban storm water, according to a study by US researchers.
Continue reading " Rain gardens 'cut city pollution' "
January 23, 2006
EU attempts to green our cities
Proposals for the European Union's latest environmental strategy published this week have been met with a lukewarm reception from campaigners.
Continue reading " EU attempts to green our cities "
January 21, 2006
Shell accused of hypocrisy over wildlife comp sponsorship
Oil giant Shell has come under attack from campaign group Friends of the Earth for its financial backing of an environmental photography competition.
Continue reading " Shell accused of hypocrisy over wildlife comp sponsorship "
January 17, 2006
Sensors watch Barrier Reef coral
With the fragile ecology of coral reefs around the globe increasingly under pressure, scientists on Australia's Great Barrier Reef are establishing a network of sensors to better understand this beautiful part of the underwater world.
Continue reading " Sensors watch Barrier Reef coral "
January 16, 2006
Arsenic threat to soil and groundwater from fences and decking
Arsenic from treated timber used in some decking, fencing and utility poles is likely to leach into the environment for decades, new research has found, posing a grave threat to ground water and soil.
Continue reading " Arsenic threat to soil and groundwater from fences and decking "
Activists balk at EPA plans to streamline pollution reporting
American activists are engaged in a last-ditch battle to persuade the Environment Protection Agency to scrap plans to relax obligations on companies to publish details of pollution they produce.
Continue reading " Activists balk at EPA plans to streamline pollution reporting "
January 13, 2006
British filmmaker killed in Kenya
Kenyan police are hunting the killers of British filmmaker and naturalist Joan Root, who was killed in an attack on her home in Naivasha.
Continue reading " British filmmaker killed in Kenya "
Light pollution soon to be criminal
Stargazers are celebrating victory as new rules to curb light pollution come into play.
Continue reading " Light pollution soon to be criminal "
January 12, 2006
Booming nations 'threaten Earth'
Earth lacks the water, energy and agricultural land to allow China and India to attain Western living standards, a US think-tank has warned.
Continue reading " Booming nations 'threaten Earth' "
January 9, 2006
More pollution gloom for China
As China braces itself for the impact of the third major spill of toxic pollutants in recent months, state officials have announced a multi-billion pound budget to combat river pollution over the next five years.
Continue reading " More pollution gloom for China "
January 6, 2006
Hybrid drivers cash in on premium insurance rates
A major motor insurer has promised hybrid drivers a 10% discount on their premiums in the USA.
Continue reading " Hybrid drivers cash in on premium insurance rates "
Population size 'green priority'
Solving the Earth's environmental problems means addressing the size of its human population, says the head of the UK's Antarctic research agency.
Continue reading " Population size 'green priority' "
December 22, 2005
$10m fine for 'magic pipe' pollution ship
A shipping company has been fined a record US$10m after sailors deliberately pumped huge quantities of oily sludge into the Atlantic.
Continue reading " $10m fine for 'magic pipe' pollution ship "
MPs fairly happy with Defra's performance
Politicians charged with summing up Defra's performance over 2005 believe the department has had a good year but that there is still plenty of room for improvement in some key areas.
Continue reading " MPs fairly happy with Defra's performance "
December 21, 2005
EA to dish out eco-ASBOs
Environmental criminals such as fly tippers and vandals are to face the same restrictive punishment as anti-social yobs.
Continue reading " EA to dish out eco-ASBOs "
Kennedy attacks Tory green claims
Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy has used a key speech on the environment to attack Conservative leader David Cameron's green credentials.
Continue reading " Kennedy attacks Tory green claims "
December 19, 2005
Environmental prize for UN chief
UN secretary-general Kofi Annan has been given one of the most prestigious environmental awards, the Zayed Prize.
Continue reading " Environmental prize for UN chief "
Farms in £25m water clean-up plan
A £25m scheme to help farmers reduce the pollutants that run off their land is being launched by the government.
Continue reading " Farms in £25m water clean-up plan "
December 16, 2005
Buncefield blast: environmental impact likely to be limited
Despite producing the largest explosion in Europe since the end of the bombing raids of the Second World War and releasing a plume of dirty black smoke clearly visible for miles around, Hertfordshire's oil depot inferno seems unlikely to cause lasting environmental harm.
Continue reading " Buncefield blast: environmental impact likely to be limited "
December 13, 2005
Pollution tracked after oil blast
Environmental experts are monitoring pollution across southern England as a plume of smoke from the Hertfordshire fuel depot blasts drifts south.
Continue reading " Pollution tracked after oil blast "
December 12, 2005
Pollution prompts public holiday
Pollution in the Iranian capital Tehran has become so bad the Government announced a two-day holiday in an attempt to reduce traffic on the city's streets.
Continue reading " Pollution prompts public holiday "
Arctic orcas highly contaminated
Killer whales have become the most contaminated mammals in the Arctic, new research indicates.
Continue reading " Arctic orcas highly contaminated "
December 9, 2005
Cameron to focus on environment
Conservative leader David Cameron is trying to underline his green credentials by setting up a policy group on the environment.
Continue reading " Cameron to focus on environment "
Europe's pollution hotspots shown
Dutch scientists are putting together remarkable maps showing pollution over Europe and other regions of the globe.
Continue reading " Europe's pollution hotspots shown "
December 8, 2005
Red bus revamp for green living
Falling asleep on the bus is about to become easier as a new scheme providing short-term housing aboard double deckers is to be launched.
Continue reading " Red bus revamp for green living "
December 7, 2005
Delay expected in ozone recovery
It could take far longer than expected for the ozone "hole" over Antarctica to repair itself, scientists have said.
Continue reading " Delay expected in ozone recovery "
December 5, 2005
'Pollution = WMD' - Lord May
Britain's top scientist was on characteristically forthright form this week, describing the potential impact of pollution and climate change as akin to using weapons of mass destruction.
Continue reading " 'Pollution = WMD' - Lord May "
December 2, 2005
Urban view 'rules green debate'
People living in towns and cities are dominating the environmental debate and overlook the opinion of rural dwellers, a leading botanist has said.
Continue reading " Urban view 'rules green debate' "
November 23, 2005
Energy boom alarms Russian Greens
"Do you know what is the brightest place on Earth in satellite images?" asks Aleksey Yablokov, leader of the new Green Russia party.
Continue reading " Energy boom alarms Russian Greens "
MEPs 'scaremongered to vote no'
Manufacturers used scaremongering tactics to persuade MEPs to vote against banning harmful gases, a politician has complained.
Continue reading " MEPs 'scaremongered to vote no' "
November 19, 2005
Korea plans to halve sewage discharged to sea
South Korea has outlined plans to halve the amount of sewage discharged into the sea by 2011.
Continue reading " Korea plans to halve sewage discharged to sea "
November 16, 2005
Greens fear chemical law dilution
Environmentalists complained on Tuesday that a key European law on the control of chemicals is being watered down.
Continue reading " Greens fear chemical law dilution "
Dams destroy environment, group warns
Dams are continuing to cause excessive environmental damage despite recommendations from the World Commission on Dams to ensure environmental consideration.
Continue reading " Dams destroy environment, group warns "
November 15, 2005
UK sites in acid rain 'recovery'
Some of the UK's most environmentally sensitive upland lakes and streams are recovering from the impact of acid rain, the government has said.
Continue reading " UK sites in acid rain 'recovery' "
Deforestation slowing - UN
The speed of global deforestation is showing signs of slowing down because of new planting and natural forest extension, according to new figures.
Continue reading " Deforestation slowing - UN "
November 14, 2005
UN warns on Iraq environment fate
Derelict factories, military scrapyards and battle sites across Iraq pose a threat to the environment and to public health, the United Nations has said.
Continue reading " UN warns on Iraq environment fate "
Blair 'failing' over environment
Environmental charity WWF UK has severely criticised the government for what it says is a lack of action on climate change and the environment.
Continue reading " Blair 'failing' over environment "
November 11, 2005
Stripped down company law seen as threat to environment
Planned reforms designed to streamline Britain's company law have sparked anger from NGOs which claim deregulation means less protection for the environment.
Continue reading " Stripped down company law seen as threat to environment "
November 7, 2005
Petrol pump fumes to be targeted
Petrol fumes which escape into the atmosphere as motorists fill up at the pumps - adding to summer smog - are to be targeted in a government crackdown.
Continue reading " Petrol pump fumes to be targeted "
October 25, 2005
Errant Italy feels EC wrath over eco-law abuse
Italy has found itself under fire from Brussels as it becomes the latest target of the European Commission's campaign to crack down on alleged breaches of environmental law and lax reporting from Member States.
Continue reading " Errant Italy feels EC wrath over eco-law abuse "
October 21, 2005
Amazon 'stealth' logging revealed
Scientists from Brazil and the US say new research suggests deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon has been underestimated by at least 60%.
Continue reading " Amazon 'stealth' logging revealed "
October 17, 2005
New MCERTS to cover dioxin emissions
A national scheme that gives pollution monitoring equipment a clean bill of health and certifies its accuracy and reliability has been expanded to cover two dioxin monitors.
Continue reading " New MCERTS to cover dioxin emissions "
The Houses of Parliament have been slammed for failing to reduce their environmental impact.
In a new report to coincide with MP's return to Westminster after the summer recess, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary Norman Baker MP accuses Parliament of hypocrisy in failing to play their part in efforts to tackle climate change and other environmental concerns.
October 13, 2005
Logging: No impact on big floods
Deforestation and logging do not increase the risk of major floods, according to a new report.
Continue reading " Logging: No impact on big floods "
October 11, 2005
Millions 'will flee degradation'
There will be as many as 50 million environmental refugees in the world in five years' time.
Continue reading " Millions 'will flee degradation' "
October 3, 2005
All organisations urged to adopt an EMS
Government officials have expressed disappointment that industry has not taken to environmental management systems in the same way it has adopted other voluntary standards encouraging good practice such as the Charter Mark and Investors in People.
Continue reading " All organisations urged to adopt an EMS "
September 26, 2005
Slow progress on environment from SMEs
Small businesses are largely unaware of their responsibilities and the help and advice available to them, according to the Environment Agency.
Continue reading " Slow progress on environment from SMEs "
September 22, 2005
Pesticide protection 'inadequate'
The public needs more protection from farming pesticides, a report warns.
Continue reading " Pesticide protection 'inadequate' "
September 19, 2005
Lobbyists take REACH to the line
As the latest version of proposals to regulate the chemical industry are thrashed out by Euro diplomats, lobbyists from both sides of the fence continue to fight their corner.
Continue reading " Lobbyists take REACH to the line "
September 13, 2005
Major overhaul for pollution regulations
A major review of the way British authorities protect the environment is in the pipeline.
Continue reading " Major overhaul for pollution regulations "
August 31, 2005
Major ozone loss over Antarctic
New readings from the European satellite Envisat suggest that this year's southern hemisphere ozone hole may be one of the largest on record.
Continue reading " Major ozone loss over Antarctic "
August 26, 2005
Deforestation of Amazon 'halved'
Brazil's government has announced estimates suggesting that deforestation of the Amazon rainforest has fallen by 50% this year.
Continue reading " Deforestation of Amazon 'halved' "
August 17, 2005
Tyre burning licence challenged
Campaigners fighting to stop tyre burning trials at a cement plant in Warwickshire are taking their case to the Court of Appeal.
Continue reading " Tyre burning licence challenged "
August 11, 2005
City is going for gold in green awards
Coventry is going for gold in a global contest to find the world's most environmentally improved city.
Continue reading " City is going for gold in green awards "
Noise maps expand across England
Residents of most of the major towns and cities in England will soon be able to see just how noisy their areas are.
Continue reading " Noise maps expand across England "
August 10, 2005
Research questions role of forests
British scientists may be about to upset one of the most cherished tenets of conservation: that trees save water.
Continue reading " Research questions role of forests "
August 8, 2005
Cleaner air bid in move on snarl-ups
Traffic congestion is creating poor air quality at a busy Coventry thoroughfare.
Continue reading " Cleaner air bid in move on snarl-ups "
August 4, 2005
Shuttle crew see damage on Earth
Discovery Commander Eileen Collins described on Thursday how widespread environmental destruction on Earth is highly visible from the shuttle.
Continue reading " Shuttle crew see damage on Earth "
August 1, 2005
Fears over environment protection in WTO trade talks
Governments are planning to use the World Trade Organisation (WTO) talks taking place in Geneva this week to dismantle a wide range of national laws protecting the environment, campaigners have alleged.
Continue reading " Fears over environment protection in WTO trade talks "
Use ASBOs to deter environmental crime Agency urges
Anti-Social Behaviour Orders should be used to prevent environmental crime, the Environment Agency said this week.
Continue reading " Use ASBOs to deter environmental crime Agency urges "
July 29, 2005
Vegas - set to run dry by 2055?
Las Vegas is world-renowned as a city of fantasy, flaunting its reputation for excess.
Continue reading " Vegas - set to run dry by 2055? "
July 22, 2005
Ireland defiant over its environmental record after brush with EU
Irish environment minister Dick Roche has defended his country's record after the EU announced it would be chasing the nation up on five breaches of environmental law.
Continue reading " Ireland defiant over its environmental record after brush with EU "
July 19, 2005
Host of EU states face court for environmental lapses as France nets massive fine
Brussels has launched a barrage of legal action as members lag behind on legislation which should have been written into national statute books months ago - and France has been fined millions of Euros for flagrantly ignoring fishing laws.
July 15, 2005
Birds carry pollution to Arctic
Sea birds are transporting industrial and agricultural pollutants to the Arctic, according to new research.
Continue reading " Birds carry pollution to Arctic "
July 12, 2005
EU cracks whip over environment
The European Commission has issued a final warning to several EU member states for failing to comply with EU rules on the environment.
Continue reading " EU cracks whip over environment "
June 30, 2005
Felling plan to save native trees
Millions of conifers and other non-native trees are to be felled in the next 20 years to regenerate indigenous trees in England's woodland.
Continue reading " Felling plan to save native trees "
June 28, 2005
Air travel bill targets pollution
New controls aimed at tackling noise and pollution caused by air travel are expected to be backed by MPs.
Continue reading " Air travel bill targets pollution "
Air travel bill targets pollution
New controls aimed at tackling noise and pollution caused by air travel are expected to be backed by MPs.
Continue reading " Air travel bill targets pollution "
June 24, 2005
Scotland could bag new eco-tax
Mike Pringle MSP has unveiled his new Members Bill to put a tax on plastic bags given away in Scotland.
Continue reading " Scotland could bag new eco-tax "
Tyre burning trials could restart
Rugby Cement is hoping to restart its tyre buring trials after they were halted in the summer of last year.
Continue reading " Tyre burning trials could restart "
June 22, 2005
Green issues 'not top priority'
Environment Secretary Margaret Beckett is having to fight to stop ministers neglecting green issues in the quest for jobs, the Liberal Democrats say.
Continue reading " Green issues 'not top priority' "
June 20, 2005
Targets to cut aviation pollution
New targets to reduce the environmental impact of air travel are being launched by the UK's aviation industry.
Continue reading " Targets to cut aviation pollution "
June 9, 2005
Environment 'needs more effort'
England and Wales have been given a "green health check" in a 13-page document from the Environment Agency.
Continue reading " Environment 'needs more effort' "
June 7, 2005
Doubts over rural watchdog plans
Government plans for a new rural watchdog may not protect the countryside from damage, environmental pressure groups have warned.
Continue reading " Doubts over rural watchdog plans "
June 3, 2005
Experts fear for Europe's plants
A list of the 800 most important sites for wild plants in central and Eastern Europe has been published by the charity, Plantlife International.
Continue reading " Experts fear for Europe's plants "
June 1, 2005
ET launched by Environment Agency boss
The Environment Agency's chief executive Baroness Barbara Young launched ET 2005 on Tues, May 24 with a speech about the importance of industry participation in efforts to clean up the planet.
Continue reading " ET launched by Environment Agency boss "
May 28, 2005
Free trade will have adverse effect on environment says report
Liberalisation of trade rules as proposed in the World Trade Organisation's current Doha negotiating round would damage the environment and contribute to climate change, a study has found.
Continue reading " Free trade will have adverse effect on environment says report "
May 25, 2005
'Increasing threat' to green belt
Green belt land protecting countryside from urban sprawl is increasingly being threatened by government initiatives, rural campaigners have said.
Continue reading " 'Increasing threat' to green belt "
May 23, 2005
Earth's species feel the squeeze
If we continue with current rates of species extinction, we will have no chance of rolling back poverty and the lives of all humans will be diminished.
Continue reading " Earth's species feel the squeeze "
May 19, 2005
No green winner in nappy debate
Whether parents use disposable or cloth nappies makes little difference to the environment, a report has concluded.
Continue reading " No green winner in nappy debate "
Amazon destruction accelerating
The Amazon rainforest is being destroyed at near record levels, according to new figures released by the Brazilian government.
Continue reading " Amazon destruction accelerating "
May 18, 2005
Plans to protect UK countryside
Plans to better protect and manage wildlife and habitats and to increase support for rural communities have been unveiled in the Queen's Speech.
Continue reading " Plans to protect UK countryside "
May 9, 2005
British plants fighting for space
Britain has made good progress in trying to preserve some of its rarest wild plants, but it has largely failed to halt widespread species decline.
Continue reading " British plants fighting for space "
Cleaner air makes brighter skies
The amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface is increasing, two new studies in Science magazine suggest.
Continue reading " Cleaner air makes brighter skies "
May 4, 2005
Ban on toxic chemicals reviewed
An international summit has opened in Uruguay to review an international treaty banning some of the most dangerous man-made chemicals.
Continue reading " Ban on toxic chemicals reviewed "
May 3, 2005
Soil quality threat to EU farming
European farming is being threatened by declining soil quality, particularly in eastern states, according to a report.
Continue reading " Soil quality threat to EU farming "
Greenpeace co-founder Hunter dies
Canadian co-founder of the Greenpeace environmental group Bob Hunter has died aged 63 after battling prostate cancer.
Continue reading " Greenpeace co-founder Hunter dies "
April 27, 2005
Trade used as excuse to attack EU green legislation
European laws protecting the environment, social well-being and health could come under attack at international trade discussions, Friends of the Earth (FoE) Europe has warned this week.
Continue reading " Trade used as excuse to attack EU green legislation "
Report hangs US 'greenwashers' out to dry
America's ten worst "greenwashers" have been identified and accused of targeting consumers, investors and policy makers alike by a Green Life report this week.
Continue reading " Report hangs US 'greenwashers' out to dry "
Chinese business shows green conscience
Many of China's biggest companies are intent on improving environmental standards and practises, according to a survey conducted by conservation organisation WWF.
Continue reading " Chinese business shows green conscience "
April 25, 2005
Blair 'to debate nuclear power'
A re-elected Labour government would put nuclear power back on the agenda in an effort to meet targets on climate change, government sources have said.
Continue reading " Blair 'to debate nuclear power' "
April 21, 2005
Residents lose cement works case
Campaigners have lost their High Court battle to stop pollution from a cement plant in Rugby.
Continue reading " Residents lose cement works case "
April 20, 2005
Piste pressure on alpine plants
The impacts of ski piste preparation on alpine plants are long-lasting and greatest at higher altitudes, Swiss researchers report.
Continue reading " Piste pressure on alpine plants "
April 19, 2005
EU seizes on Washington report to press US on climate change
European officials made another attempt to put the US under pressure on climate change yesterday, as a delegation from the European Union met senior officials in Washington to discuss co-operation on environmental issues.
Continue reading " EU seizes on Washington report to press US on climate change "
April 18, 2005
EU pollution deaths cost billions
The European Union could save up to 161 billion euros a year by reducing deaths caused by air pollution, the World Health Organization has said.
Continue reading " EU pollution deaths cost billions "
April 15, 2005
Commission adopts eco-design Directive despite claims it lacks ambition
The European Parliament has formally adopted the Directive on the eco-design of energy using products, despite claims by environmental groups that the directive lacks ambition
Continue reading " Commission adopts eco-design Directive despite claims it lacks ambition "
EU pollution deaths cost billions
The European Union could save up to 161 billion euros a year by reducing deaths caused by air pollution, the World Health Organization has said.
Continue reading " EU pollution deaths cost billions "
April 8, 2005
Flood risk must be addressed
Several London boroughs are unaware that they are at risk from serious flooding and defences could easily be breached, according to environmental experts.
Continue reading " Flood risk must be addressed "
April 5, 2005
Baroness Barbara Young Set to Open ET 2005
Baroness Barbara Young, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, has been confirmed to declare ET 2005 officially open.
Continue reading " Baroness Barbara Young Set to Open ET 2005 "
April 4, 2005
Warning on nuclear waste disposal
Proposals to send Britain's nuclear waste into space or to the bottom of the sea are impractical, a government advisory committee has warned.
Continue reading " Warning on nuclear waste disposal "
March 30, 2005
Study highlights global decline
The most comprehensive survey ever into the state of the planet concludes that human activities threaten the Earth's ability to sustain future generations.
Continue reading " Study highlights global decline "
March 24, 2005
Lib Dem hits out at green lobby
Environmental campaigners have come under fire from the Liberal Democrats for failing to make enough protests in the run up to the general election.
Continue reading " Lib Dem hits out at green lobby "
March 23, 2005
Brazilian wetlands 'under threat'
A wetland area in Brazil hosting rare animals and plants could be destroyed by farming, urban development and climate change, a UN report has warned.
Continue reading " Brazilian wetlands 'under threat' "
March 22, 2005
Beach litter 'unacceptably' high
A survey of nearly 300 UK beaches has found a piece of litter for every 50cm (20 inches) of coastline studied.
Continue reading " Beach litter 'unacceptably' high "
March 21, 2005
G8 to tackle illegal timber trade
Environment and development ministers from the G8 group of leading countries have committed themselves to tackling the problem of illegal logging.
Continue reading " G8 to tackle illegal timber trade "
Industry must lead to reduce London's ecological footprint
London's ecological footprint is more than twice the size of the UK, and if everyone lived as Londoners do, it would take over three planets to support them, a shock report has revealed.
Continue reading " Industry must lead to reduce London's ecological footprint "
March 2, 2005
Scheme to reward 'green' farmers
Farmers will be rewarded for protecting the environment under a new initiative launched by the government on Thursday.
Continue reading " Scheme to reward 'green' farmers "
February 25, 2005
Pact to curb mercury is rejected
World governments have concluded an agreement on reducing production and use of the toxic heavy metal mercury.
Continue reading " Pact to curb mercury is rejected "
February 24, 2005
Firm escapes action over emission
No action will be taken against a firm over a malfunction that released dust from its Rugby cement plant.
Continue reading " Firm escapes action over emission "
February 23, 2005
Kenya urged to ban plastic bags
Kenya has been urged to ban flimsy plastic bags to rid the country of a growing public health hazard.
Continue reading " Kenya urged to ban plastic bags "
February 11, 2005
New eco-friendly labelling for cars
A new colour-coded label will appear on all new cars as of July this year, to help buyers assess the climate change impacts of different cars. It will also show that, increasingly, better environmental performance means lower road tax and lower running costs.
Continue reading " New eco-friendly labelling for cars "
MPs speak out on environmental crime
"Environmental compliance barely registers with far too many businesses and why should it when they know their illegal actions are likely to remain undetected and largely unpunished?" Peter Ainsworth MP, chairman of the Environmental Audit Committee, said at the launch of its second report on corporate environmental crime.
Continue reading " MPs speak out on environmental crime "
February 7, 2005
Pure water washes greener
Gas-free water cleans greasy stains without soap.
Continue reading " Pure water washes greener "
January 31, 2005
Arctic ozone may drop to new low
The coming weeks could bring the most severe thinning of the ozone layer over northern Europe since records began.
Continue reading " Arctic ozone may drop to new low "
January 26, 2005
New campaign to counter CBI-led deregulation lobby
Scare-mongering by polluting industries on the costs of cleaning up is making the Government back-pedal on environmental protection - prompting a major new campaign launched today by the Environmental Industries Commission (EIC) to counter the "environmental deregulationists".
Continue reading " New campaign to counter CBI-led deregulation lobby "
January 24, 2005
City pollution levels below UK average
Air pollution levels in Coventry are well below the national average according to a study by respiratory physiotherapists.
Continue reading " City pollution levels below UK average "
January 21, 2005
Arctic rivers 'flowing faster'
The amount of fresh water entering the Arctic Ocean from the rivers that feed it is increasing, UK scientists report.
Writing in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, they say the increase is caused in part by human activities and is an early sign of climate change.
Continue reading " Arctic rivers 'flowing faster' "
January 20, 2005
Gadget growth fuels eco concerns
Technology firms and gadget lovers are being urged to think more about the environment when buying and disposing of the latest hi-tech products.
Continue reading " Gadget growth fuels eco concerns "
January 14, 2005
New 'green' award launched for environment-friendly buildings
Channel NewsAsia reports from Singapore the Government has launched a Green Mark scheme to encourage developers and building owners to come up with environment-friendly buildings.
Continue reading " New 'green' award launched for environment-friendly buildings "
January 3, 2005
Uzbeks promise smelter clean-up
A senior official at one of Central Asia's pollution hotspots has promised a clean-up will be completed by 2010.
Continue reading " Uzbeks promise smelter clean-up "
December 15, 2004
UK to keep foreign nuclear waste
The Government has decided to bury Japanese, German, Italian, Spanish, Swiss and Swedish nuclear waste in Britain as a money-making venture to help pay for the UK's own unresolved nuclear waste problems.
Continue reading " UK to keep foreign nuclear waste "
December 6, 2004
HSBC bank to go carbon neutral
HSBC is the first big bank to commit to going carbon neutral as it seeks to reduce its environmental impact.
Continue reading " HSBC bank to go carbon neutral "
November 17, 2004
Climate change 'ruining' Everest
Environmentalists are calling for Mount Everest to be put on a UN danger list because of global warming.
Continue reading " Climate change 'ruining' Everest "
November 3, 2004
Neglected sewers threaten floods
Raw sewage discharges into UK rivers and homes will get worse unless the water regulator Ofwat approves major repairs to pipes, a leading academic has warned.
Continue reading " Neglected sewers threaten floods "
October 29, 2004
Tidal wave threat 'over-hyped'
The risk of a landslide in the Canary Islands causing a tidal wave (tsunami) able to devastate America's east coast is vastly overstated.
Continue reading " Tidal wave threat 'over-hyped' "
DIY store levies bag 'tax'
Shoppers are to be charged extra for using plastic bags for the first time in the UK in a pilot scheme designed to protect the environment by discouraging consumers from using them.
Continue reading " DIY store levies bag 'tax' "
October 27, 2004
Green taxes 'would hit poor most'
Poor families would be hardest hit by "green" taxes designed to protect the environment, research suggests.
Continue reading " Green taxes 'would hit poor most' "
October 26, 2004
Iraq sulphur fire breaks records
A fire at an Iraq chemical plant has caused the largest recorded man-made release of sulphur dioxide, experts say.
Continue reading " Iraq sulphur fire breaks records "
October 18, 2004
Drivers urged to buy 'green' cars
Four out of five drivers would buy a "green" car if they had a financial reason to do so, a new report has claimed.
Continue reading " Drivers urged to buy 'green' cars "
UK boost for biomass fuel crops
The UK is to encourage the production of biomass, crops grown specially for use as environmentally-friendly fuels.
Continue reading " UK boost for biomass fuel crops "
October 15, 2004
Marathon recycling after race
Thousands of water bottles dumped along the streets of Cardiff by athletes taking part in the recent marathon have been recycled.
If the bottles had been laid end to end, there would have been enough to circle the circumference of the Millennium Stadium 10 times.
Continue reading " Marathon recycling after race "
October 14, 2004
BT gets behind renewable energy
British Telecom has announced a three-year plan to get all of its energy needs from renewable sources - the biggest such project in the world.
Continue reading " BT gets behind renewable energy "
October 13, 2004
Targets 'hamper recycling effort'
Government policy undermines efforts to improve the UK's recycling record, a sustainable development charity says.
Continue reading " Targets 'hamper recycling effort' "
October 8, 2004
Pollutants 'in children's blood'
Environmental campaigners are warning potentially dangerous chemicals are present in children's blood.
Continue reading " Pollutants 'in children's blood' "
October 7, 2004
Web map to show risk of flooding
The Environment Agency is launching a £30m online map to tell homeowners in England and Wales for the first time what flooding risks they face.
Continue reading " Web map to show risk of flooding "
October 3, 2004
Multi-million clean-up plan for the Thames
The River Thames is to get a multi-million-pound clean- up after ministers were embarrassed by a series of pollution incidents that killed wildlife and threatened the health of river users.
Continue reading " Multi-million clean-up plan for the Thames "
September 30, 2004
Defra announces three-year waste research strategy
Defra's Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Howard Dalton, announced a new research strategy to help the Government's sustainable waste management policy.
Continue reading " Defra announces three-year waste research strategy "
September 29, 2004
Recycling just 7% of total waste spending
Recycling and waste minimisation activities represent just 7.2% of the total spent on waste services in England and Wales, according to new figures.
Continue reading " Recycling just 7% of total waste spending "
September 27, 2004
Recycling campaign launched
A multi-million pound effort to persuade Britons to get serious about recycling is being launched today.
Continue reading " Recycling campaign launched "
September 21, 2004
Looking to the hydrogen horizon
Demand for oil is soaring, and with it the price - currently $46 a barrel. Discoveries of new reserves are getting thinner and the cost of production is rising, especially in the older fields
Some believe we are reaching the beginning of the end of the oil epoch. But, they say, hydrogen cars could offer a route out of the problem.
Continue reading " Looking to the hydrogen horizon "
The battle for DR Congo's wildlife
Despite the Democratic Republic of Congo's shaky peace, her five World Heritage site national parks and their wildlife and unique ecosystems remain endangered.
Continue reading " The battle for DR Congo's wildlife "
September 17, 2004
Climate change affecting UK seabirds
UK seabirds' breeding attempts in 2004 have been disastrous, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds says, with industrial fishing and climate change largely to blame.
Continue reading " Climate change affecting UK seabirds "
September 15, 2004
Tree project to target under-16s
A campaign is being launched on Wednesday which aims to plant a new tree for every under-16 in Britain.
Continue reading " Tree project to target under-16s "
UN to help tackle Iraq pollution
The United Nations Environment Programme (Unep) has said it will help Iraq clean up the toxic pollution caused by a decade of conflict.
Continue reading " UN to help tackle Iraq pollution "
September 14, 2004
Company quizzed on sewage release
Thames Water is to be questioned on its decision to pump about 600,000 tons of raw sewage into the River Thames during August's torrential rain.
Continue reading " Company quizzed on sewage release "
September 13, 2004
Environmentalist fury over oil spill at Shell pipeline site
Shell's £6 billion Sakhalin oil pipeline has not even been built yet, but it has already caused a damaging oil slick that has enraged environmentalists and could force potential lenders to pull funds.
Continue reading " Environmentalist fury over oil spill at Shell pipeline site "
September 8, 2004
UK 'will fail pollution targets'
The UK will fail to meet key objectives on reducing air pollution, resulting in further damage to human health, a leading expert has said.
Continue reading " UK 'will fail pollution targets' "
September 6, 2004
Plutonium traced in British soil
Traces of plutonium from American nuclear tests in Nevada 50 years ago appeared in British soil soon after, scientists will reveal on Monday.
Continue reading " Plutonium traced in British soil "
September 2, 2004
The return of the countryside
If you want an illustration of the changing face of European agricultural policy, take a trip to Otmoor in Oxfordshire.
Continue reading " The return of the countryside "
September 1, 2004
Water quality fails EU standards
Most rivers, lakes, estuaries and coasts in England and Wales are unlikely to meet new EU regulations on water quality, conservationists say.
Continue reading " Water quality fails EU standards "
August 29, 2004
Acid oceans spell doom for coral
The increasing acidity of the world's oceans could banish all coral by 2065, a leading marine expert has warned.
Continue reading " Acid oceans spell doom for coral "
August 25, 2004
'Heat-proof' glass could save on air-con
A new coating for glass that can keep the heat from the sun out, saving on air-conditioning costs, has been developed by scientists in London.
Continue reading " 'Heat-proof' glass could save on air-con "
August 20, 2004
Clean-up works on Norfolk Broads
Several Norfolk Broads have been given a clean bill of ecological health after more than a century of stagnation.
Continue reading " Clean-up works on Norfolk Broads "
August 19, 2004
Huge waves eroding British coast
Storm waves over 20m high are getting bigger, more frequent and eroding Britain's Atlantic coast, experts say.
Continue reading " Huge waves eroding British coast "
August 10, 2004
Pollution 'kills 1,000 fish'
An investigation is underway into a pollution incident which killed around 1,000 fish in a south Wales river.
Continue reading " Pollution 'kills 1,000 fish' "
Nature 'mankind's gravest threat'
Giant tsunamis, super volcanoes and earthquakes could pose a greater threat than terrorism, scientists claim.
Continue reading " Nature 'mankind's gravest threat' "
August 9, 2004
Prozac 'found in drinking water'
Traces of the antidepressant Prozac can be found in the nation's drinking water, it has been revealed.
Continue reading " Prozac 'found in drinking water' "
August 3, 2004
Acid rain 'could have benefits'
Acid rain pollution could be helping to slow down global warming, a study carried out in Scotland has found.
Continue reading " Acid rain 'could have benefits' "
August 2, 2004
Putting green cars to the test
Vehicle emissions are one of the major contributors to global warming, but truly environmentally friendly cars remain scarce. Just how good are those green vehicles currently available?
Continue reading " Putting green cars to the test "
July 30, 2004
Minister unveils flooding plans
Plans to tackle the growing problems of flooding and coastal erosion in England due to global warming have been published by the government.
Continue reading " Minister unveils flooding plans "
July 29, 2004
British Energy rapped for environmental breaches
British Energy, the country's biggest operator of nuclear power stations, breached environmental regulations 21 times during 2003 and has been told that its failures are "unacceptable".
Continue reading " British Energy rapped for environmental breaches "
July 27, 2004
UN plan to save Iraq's marshlands
The United Nations has announced a major project to help restore the lost marshlands of Iraq, which supported the ancient way of life of the Marsh Arabs.
Continue reading " UN plan to save Iraq's marshlands "
Increase in pollution fines
Eleven company directors were personally fined up to £20,000 for pollution incidents last year, about four times as many as five years ago, according to Government figures.
Continue reading " Increase in pollution fines "
July 26, 2004
Eco-friendly homes in demand
Home buyers want to know how their homes rate for energy efficiency and running costs, with 84% prepared to pay an extra 2% on the purchase price for an eco-friendly home, according to research published today.
Continue reading " Eco-friendly homes in demand "
July 22, 2004
Local people 'to preserve nature'
The potential for indigenous people to help curb the destruction of forests is being overlooked by the international community, according to a report.
Continue reading " Local people 'to preserve nature' "
July 20, 2004
Amazon fires raise CO2 threat
Burning of the Amazon rainforest has made Brazil one of the world's top 10 polluters, raising pressure on the government to curb destruction of the jungles, scientists say.
Continue reading " Amazon fires raise CO2 threat "
July 16, 2004
Europe's slow climate change progress
The European Union's climate emissions fell only slightly from 2001 to 2002, the European Environment Agency (EEA) says.
Continue reading " Europe's slow climate change progress "
Museum has flush of inspiration
London's Science Museum could use its toilets to help power its building and cut electricity bills.
Continue reading " Museum has flush of inspiration "
Ocean CO2 could 'harm marine life'
Nearly 50% of the carbon dioxide that humans have pumped into the atmosphere over the last 200 years has been absorbed by the sea, scientists say.
Continue reading " Ocean CO2 could 'harm marine life' "
Olympic Games damaging environment
Organisers of the Olympic Games in Athens have destroyed vital wildlife habitats, a trail of destruction which is threatening to spread to nearby mountains, the WWF said today.
Continue reading " Olympic Games damaging environment "
July 15, 2004
Pro-whaling alliance planned
As the International Whaling Commission (IWC) experiences deadlock between countries for and against the resumption of commmercial whaling, Japan is making plans to establish a new pro-whaling alliance.
Continue reading " Pro-whaling alliance planned "
Olympic Games damaging the environment
Organisers of the Olympic Games in Athens have destroyed vital wildlife habitats, a trail of destruction which is threatening to spread to nearby mountains, the WWF said today.
Continue reading " Olympic Games damaging the environment "
July 14, 2004
Green fuels set for breakthrough
Motorists who feel a pang of guilt every time they fill their tanks with pollutant-laden fossil fuels may soon find that they no longer have an excuse for not switching to cleaner alternatives.
Continue reading " Green fuels set for breakthrough "
US pollution may damage UK health
Polluted air from America could be damaging the health of people in Britain, experts fear.
Continue reading " US pollution may damage UK health "
July 13, 2004
Government to increase environmental spending
The Government has increased the environment budget from £3.2 billion this year to £3.5 billion.
Continue reading " Government to increase environmental spending "
July 12, 2004
Pollution "changes sex of fish"
A third of male fish in British rivers are in the process of changing sex due to pollution in human sewage, research by the Environment Agency suggests.
Continue reading " Pollution "changes sex of fish" "
July 10, 2004
Satellite to study Earth's 'Aura'
The US space agency launches Aura - a satellite designed to check the health of the Earth's atmosphere - on Sunday.
Aura will peer through the stratosphere and the troposphere, right down to the air we breathe on the ground.
Continue reading " Satellite to study Earth's 'Aura' "
July 9, 2004
Britons urged to count jellyfish
A vast army of jellyfish has invaded the seas around Britain as holidaymakers take to the beach and the water.
Continue reading " Britons urged to count jellyfish "
First emissions trading plans approved
Plans within the European Union (EU) to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) pollution through "emissions trading" have advanced.
Continue reading " First emissions trading plans approved "
July 8, 2004
UK may need more nuclear power plants
The Prime Minister has told a committee of MPs that the only way to meet the UK's promises on tackling climate change may mean it has to opt for nuclear power.
Continue reading " UK may need more nuclear power plants "
July 7, 2004
Offshore wind farm given the go-ahead
Welsh Assembly Members have backed a controversial plan for a large wind farm off the south coast of Wales.
Continue reading " Offshore wind farm given the go-ahead "
July 6, 2004
Church backing for climate change plan
The Church of England has declared its support for a challenging proposal to tackle the threat of climate change.
Continue reading " Church backing for climate change plan "
July 5, 2004
Airlines should pay for environmental impact
A study published today says the rise in demand for air travel is one of the most serious environmental threats facing the world.
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July 2, 2004
Welsh councils have increased recycling
Welsh local authorities have been congratulated for a 56% increase in recycling municipal waste last year.
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June 29, 2004
Europe faces weather risk
The European Environment Agency (EEA) claims that climate change is affecting the whole environment, from the plight of glaciers to plants' growing seasons.
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June 28, 2004
EC pilots project to "green" consumer goods
As part of the European Union's (EU) Integrated Product Policy (IPP), the European Commission (EC) has selected Nokia and Carrefour for two pilot projects aimed at "greening" consumer goods throughout their entire lifecycle.
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June 24, 2004
Air pollution damages lungs of unborn babies
The World Health Organisation has said that air pollution can damage the lungs of children even before birth.
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