11.19.13
Oil Spill
BP releases Gulf of Mexico environmental data
Houston Chronicle
Posted on November 18, 2013 at 12:05 pm by Collin Eaton
HOUSTON — BP on Monday released a massive amount of environmental data it
uses in its efforts to clean up the Gulf of Mexico, where the company's
Macondo well spilled millions of barrels of oil in 2010.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2013/11/18/bp-releases-gulf-of-mexico-environmental-data/
State
Hercules files motion to dismiss part of lawsuit
Hattiesburg American
Hercules, Inc. and Ashland, Inc. have filed a motion to dismiss part of a
U.S. District Court lawsuit brought against them by the City of Hattiesburg
in late September.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131119/NEWS01/311190014/Hercules-files-motion-dismiss-part-lawsuit
National
Colorado to Tighten Drilling Rules
Wall Street Journal
By RUSSELL GOLD
Updated Nov. 18, 2013 8:39 p.m. ET
Colorado unveiled new measures to reduce airborne emissions from oil and
natural-gas operations amid worries by state residents that increased
drilling would hurt the environment or their health.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303755504579206413230149896?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Opinion
Recycling really does pay off
Editorial – Clarion Ledger
Communities throughout Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties have an
opportunity to work together on an economic development project that could
create jobs, provide new services for residents and improve the
environment.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131119/OPINION01/311190004/Recycling-really-does-pay-off
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Monday, November 18, 2013
News Clippings 11/18/13
11/18/2013
Oil Spill
D'Olive Watershed Worries get BP Fine Money
WKRG
DAPHNE, Alabama - Now, one environmental disaster may mean the salvation of
another.
Soon to be flowing into the D'Olive Creek watershed almost 7 million
dollars.
http://www.wkrg.com/story/23984411/dolive-watershed-worries-get-bp-fine-money
Projects are a positive step
Editorial – Houma Courier
Published: Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 4:57 p.m.
Local coastal projects in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes are benefitting
from $14 million in fine money from BP and Transocean due to the 2010 oil
spill in the Gulf.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20131116/OPINION/131119674/1211/news01?Title=Projects-are-a-positive-step
Editorial: More oil-spill money
Pensacola News Journal
Two news items caught our attention Friday: The city of Pensacola will
receive $2 million from BP, while the five Gulf states will split $113
million in oil-spill money.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131116/OPINION/311160002/Editorial-More-oil-spill-money
State
Lake Serene dam fix could cost $1M
Hattiesburg American
The story
In August and September 2012, Hurricane Isaac spawned storm systems that
dumped more than a foot of rain on the Pine Belt.
The heavy rains saturated the earthen barrier between Oak Grove and Stump
lakes in the Lake Serene system in Lamar County, causing about a 100-yard
section of the downstream embankment to slough off like heavy icing sliding
off a slanted slice of cake.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170031/Lake-Serene-dam-fix-could-cost-1M?nclick_check=1
Pascagoula has $400,000 in grants to help turn around vacant properties
sun herald
BY TAMMY LEYTHAM
November 17, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- The city of Pascagoula has funds available that could help
landowners who want to develop a vacant building or site.
The city has received two Brownfields grants -- for $200,000 each -- from
the EPA to be used for environmental assessments, one for petroleum sites
and the other for hazardous waste, said Jen Dearman, the city's community
and economic development director.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/17/5123257/pascagoula-has-400000-in-grants.html?sp-tk=39828A6BB8CD2D1F50D23B3BDFA9357BB582DA18A34547F9EE96975604F508E03C908C7ACEF24BF552A794F62CABD0A902B976F33690FCA4ED95F0D4FC07E60555D5805B5F7F0288F6955886A249C8D2486A5FC9F9179FBF38CEFAD95FBD1F3670E9C03349397CA74972487FDB8A8A28F0DC1BE7740E1281FCB0689AC8748C0D0641F02EA2435994268375D7765DFBB873F8904048F83F4C05D3CC76F773CB03B3A56D7E
Money going in the trash: Not enough interest in recycling to justify
costs, officials say
Not enough public interest to justify the costs, officials say
Clarion Ledger
Mississippians throw $210 million a year in the garbage, and then we spend
another $70 million to bury it.
Recycling advocates will tell you that's money wasted. Studies will tell
you these are opportunities lost.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170017/Money-going-trash-Not-enough-interest-recycling-justify-costs-officials-say
Natchez wins recycling award
The Associated PressNovember 18, 2013
NATCHEZ, MISS. — The Mississippi Recycling Coalition has recognized the
city of Natchez's curbside recycling program as New Program of the Year.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/18/5124094/natchez-wins-recycling-award.html
MDEQ awards assistance grant to Golden Triangle
WTVA
ACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
has awarded the Golden Triangle Solid Waste Management Authority a solid
waste assistance grant of $36,675 that will be used to host a household
hazardous waste collection event on April 26, 2014.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/MDEQ-awards-assistance-grant-to-Golden-Triangle/vlI_xPVlCU2J5yoJGcRrxQ.cspx
Harrison Co. Utility Authority to name new contractor in December
WLOX
GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) -On March 25, 2013, the Harrison County Utility
Authority held a special meeting where Attorney Jim Simpson announced the
termination of SH Anthony's multi-million dollar contract.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23983328/harrison-co-utility-authority-to-name-new-contractor-in-december
Investigation underway into Chevron's deadly fire in Pascagoula
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -What caused a deadly fire at Chevron Refinery in
Pascagoula is still a mystery. State, local and federal investigators were
at the refinery all day Friday searching for clues in this accident. The
person killed was 46-year-old Tonya Graddy of Semmes, Alabama. Chevron
workers and community members are in shock.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/investigation-underway-into-chevrons-deadly-fire-in-pascagoula
Chevron fire reminds officials how dangerous the refinery can be
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -Authorities have identified the only victim of the
Chevron plant fire as 49-year-old Tonya Grady, of Alabama. She had worked
at the refinery for five years. Fire crews from Chevron managed to get the
blaze under control, but Jackson County fire crews were on site to back
them up.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23985206/chevron-fire-reminds-jackson-county-officials-how-dangerous-refinery-can-be
Alabama woman killed in Chevron's Pascagoula Refinery explosion
Sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON
November 16, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- An early-morning explosion and fire Friday at the Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery killed a plant operator, sent up a huge plume of smoke
and rattled windows and doors of homes in nearby neighborhoods.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/16/5119756/alabama-woman-killed-in-chevrons.html
Starkville home to largest solar array in Mississippi
Commercial Dispatch
November 16, 2013 10:22:32 PM
William Browning - wbrowning@cdispatch.com
STARKVILLE -- For years and years the guys behind Synergetics were
interested in solar power but never pulled the trigger.
http://www.cdispatch.com/news/article.asp?aid=28917
Gulf Coast Research lab restocks south Mississippi rivers with striped bass
fingerlings
The Associated Press
November 18, 2013 at 5:47 AM
JACKSON, Mississippi -- A coastal research agency and the Mississippi
wildlife department have programs ongoing to restock Mississippi rivers and
streams with fish.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/gulf_coast_research_lab_restoc.html#incart_river
New Leadership Works To Get Troubled DMR Back On Track
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 17 NOV 2013 11:02PM
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is trying to get back on
track after 10 former DMR employees, including the previous director of the
agency, allegedly embezzled more than $1 million in state funds starting in
2006. Seven of those employees are now facing criminal charges too.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/new_leadership_works_to_get_troubled_dmr_back_on_track
Pension results: Better or not?
Accounting makes both scenarios true
AP
Mississippi's public employee pension fund saw its financial position
improve last year.
Or it didn't.
http://www.clarionledger.com/viewart/20131118/NEWS01/311180012/Pension-results-Better-not-
National
For First Time, E.P.A. Proposes Reducing Ethanol Requirement for Gas Mix
NY Times
By MATTHEW L. WALD
WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed
reducing the amount of ethanol that is required to be mixed with the
gasoline supply, the first time it has taken steps to slow down the drive
to replace fossil fuels with renewable forms of energy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/16/us/for-first-time-epa-proposes-reducing-ethanol-requirement-for-gas-mix.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Hitting the Brake on Ethanol
Government Proposes Easing Level of Corn-Based Additive Required in
Gasoline
Wall Street Journal
By TENNILLE TRACY And KEITH JOHNSON
Updated Nov. 15, 2013 7:47 p.m. ET
WASHINGTON—The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed for the
first time to ease an annual requirement for ethanol in gasoline, saying
that levels mandated in a 2007 law are difficult, if not impossible, to
meet.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579195910936634756?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Obama touts clean energy agenda
The HIll
By Cameron Joseph
President Obama focused on energy independence in his weekly address,
following a week dominated by the chaotic rollout of his signature
healthcare law.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190483-obama-touts-clean-energy-agenda
House Republicans tell EPA to step down on new power plant rules
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Leaders from the House Energy and Commerce Committee called on the
Environmental Protection Agency to withdraw its proposed greenhouse gas
standards for new power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190464-house-republicans-tell-epa-step-down-on-carbon-rules
Opinion
Big Ethanol Finally Loses
The political fuel is losing support as its costs and harm grow.
Wall Street Journal
Nov. 17, 2013 6:07 p.m. ET
It's not often that the ethanol lobby suffers a policy setback in
Washington, but it got its head handed to it Friday. The Environmental
Protection Agency announced that for the first time it is lowering the
federal mandate that dictates how much ethanol must be blended into the
nation's gasoline. It's about time. It's been about time from the moment
the ethanol mandate came to life in the 1970s.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579198081681248494?mod=trending_now_5
Press Releases
EPA Proposes 2014 Renewable Fuel Standards
Proposal Seeks Input to Address "E10 Blend Wall," Reaffirms Commitment to
Biofuels
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today proposed
for public comment the levels of renewable fuels to be blended into
gasoline and diesel as required by Congress under the Energy Independence
and Security Act of 2007. Developed with input from the U.S. Department of
Energy and U.S. Department of Agriculture, the proposal seeks public input
on annual volume requirements for renewable fuels in all motor vehicle
gasoline and diesel produced or imported by the United States in 2014. The
proposal seeks to put the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program on a steady
path forward – ensuring the continued long-term growth of the renewable
fuel industry – while seeking input on different approaches to address the
"E10 blend wall."
"Biofuels are a key part of the Obama Administration's "all of the above"
energy strategy, helping to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, cut
carbon pollution and create jobs," said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.
"We have made great progress in recent years, and EPA continues to support
the RFS goal of increasing biofuel production and use. We look forward to
working with all stakeholders to develop a final rule that maintains the
strength and promise of the RFS program."
The proposal discusses a variety of approaches for setting the 2014
standards, and includes a number of production and consumption ranges for
key categories of biofuel covered by the RFS program. The proposal seeks
comment on a range of total renewable fuel volumes for 2014 and proposes a
level within that range of 15.21 billion gallons. Specifically, EPA is
seeking comment on the following proposed volumes:
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Category |Proposed Volume a | Range |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
|Cellulosic biofuel | 17 mill gal | 8-30 million gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Biomass-based | 1.28 bill gal | 1.28 billion gallons |
| diesel | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Advanced biofuel | 2.20 bill gal |2.0-2.51 billion gallons|
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Renewable fuel | 15.21 bill gal | 15.00-15.52 billion |
| | | gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
|aAll volumes are | | |
|ethanol-equivalent,| | |
|except for | | |
|biomass-based | | |
|diesel which is | | |
|actual | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
Nearly all gasoline sold in the U.S. is now "E10," which is fuel with up to
10 percent ethanol. Production of renewable fuels has been growing rapidly
in recent years. At the same time, advances in vehicle fuel economy and
other economic factors have pushed gasoline consumption far lower than what
was expected when Congress passed the Renewable Fuel Standard in 2007. As a
result, we are now at the "E10 blend wall," the point at which the E10 fuel
pool is saturated with ethanol. If gasoline demand continues to decline, as
currently forecast, continuing growth in the use of ethanol will require
greater use of higher ethanol blends such as E15 and E85.
The Obama Administration has taken a number of steps to allow or encourage
the use of these higher ethanol blends. In 2010, EPA approved E15 for use
in vehicles newer than model year 2001 and developed labeling rules to
enable retailers to market E15. In addition, since 2011, USDA has made
funding available through the Rural Energy for America Program to support
deployment of "flex-fuel" pumps that can dispense a range of ethanol
blends. The 2014 proposal seeks input on what additional actions could be
taken by government and industry to help overcome current market
challenges, and to minimize the need for adjustments in the statutory
renewable fuel volume requirements in the future. Looking forward, the
proposal clearly indicates that growth in capacity for ethanol consumption
would continuously be reflected in the standards set beyond 2014. EPA looks
forward to further engagement and additional information from stakeholders
as the agency works in consultation with the Departments of Agriculture and
Energy toward the development of a final rule.
The renewable fuels program was developed by Congress in an effort to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand the nation's renewable fuels
sector while reducing reliance on foreign oil. The standards determine how
much renewable fuel a refiner or importer is responsible for, and are the
standards designed to achieve the national volumes for each type of
renewable fuel.
Today, in a separate action, EPA is also seeking comment on petitions for a
waiver of the renewable fuel standards that would apply in 2014. EPA
expects that a determination on the substance of the petitions will be
issued at the same time that EPA issues a final rule establishing the 2014
RFS.
Once the proposal is published in the Federal Register, it will be open to
a 60-day public comment period.
More information on the standards and regulations:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/regulations.htm
More information on renewable fuels:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/index.htm
Oil Spill
D'Olive Watershed Worries get BP Fine Money
WKRG
DAPHNE, Alabama - Now, one environmental disaster may mean the salvation of
another.
Soon to be flowing into the D'Olive Creek watershed almost 7 million
dollars.
http://www.wkrg.com/story/23984411/dolive-watershed-worries-get-bp-fine-money
Projects are a positive step
Editorial – Houma Courier
Published: Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 4:57 p.m.
Local coastal projects in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes are benefitting
from $14 million in fine money from BP and Transocean due to the 2010 oil
spill in the Gulf.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20131116/OPINION/131119674/1211/news01?Title=Projects-are-a-positive-step
Editorial: More oil-spill money
Pensacola News Journal
Two news items caught our attention Friday: The city of Pensacola will
receive $2 million from BP, while the five Gulf states will split $113
million in oil-spill money.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131116/OPINION/311160002/Editorial-More-oil-spill-money
State
Lake Serene dam fix could cost $1M
Hattiesburg American
The story
In August and September 2012, Hurricane Isaac spawned storm systems that
dumped more than a foot of rain on the Pine Belt.
The heavy rains saturated the earthen barrier between Oak Grove and Stump
lakes in the Lake Serene system in Lamar County, causing about a 100-yard
section of the downstream embankment to slough off like heavy icing sliding
off a slanted slice of cake.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170031/Lake-Serene-dam-fix-could-cost-1M?nclick_check=1
Pascagoula has $400,000 in grants to help turn around vacant properties
sun herald
BY TAMMY LEYTHAM
November 17, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- The city of Pascagoula has funds available that could help
landowners who want to develop a vacant building or site.
The city has received two Brownfields grants -- for $200,000 each -- from
the EPA to be used for environmental assessments, one for petroleum sites
and the other for hazardous waste, said Jen Dearman, the city's community
and economic development director.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/17/5123257/pascagoula-has-400000-in-grants.html?sp-tk=39828A6BB8CD2D1F50D23B3BDFA9357BB582DA18A34547F9EE96975604F508E03C908C7ACEF24BF552A794F62CABD0A902B976F33690FCA4ED95F0D4FC07E60555D5805B5F7F0288F6955886A249C8D2486A5FC9F9179FBF38CEFAD95FBD1F3670E9C03349397CA74972487FDB8A8A28F0DC1BE7740E1281FCB0689AC8748C0D0641F02EA2435994268375D7765DFBB873F8904048F83F4C05D3CC76F773CB03B3A56D7E
Money going in the trash: Not enough interest in recycling to justify
costs, officials say
Not enough public interest to justify the costs, officials say
Clarion Ledger
Mississippians throw $210 million a year in the garbage, and then we spend
another $70 million to bury it.
Recycling advocates will tell you that's money wasted. Studies will tell
you these are opportunities lost.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170017/Money-going-trash-Not-enough-interest-recycling-justify-costs-officials-say
Natchez wins recycling award
The Associated PressNovember 18, 2013
NATCHEZ, MISS. — The Mississippi Recycling Coalition has recognized the
city of Natchez's curbside recycling program as New Program of the Year.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/18/5124094/natchez-wins-recycling-award.html
MDEQ awards assistance grant to Golden Triangle
WTVA
ACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
has awarded the Golden Triangle Solid Waste Management Authority a solid
waste assistance grant of $36,675 that will be used to host a household
hazardous waste collection event on April 26, 2014.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/MDEQ-awards-assistance-grant-to-Golden-Triangle/vlI_xPVlCU2J5yoJGcRrxQ.cspx
Harrison Co. Utility Authority to name new contractor in December
WLOX
GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) -On March 25, 2013, the Harrison County Utility
Authority held a special meeting where Attorney Jim Simpson announced the
termination of SH Anthony's multi-million dollar contract.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23983328/harrison-co-utility-authority-to-name-new-contractor-in-december
Investigation underway into Chevron's deadly fire in Pascagoula
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -What caused a deadly fire at Chevron Refinery in
Pascagoula is still a mystery. State, local and federal investigators were
at the refinery all day Friday searching for clues in this accident. The
person killed was 46-year-old Tonya Graddy of Semmes, Alabama. Chevron
workers and community members are in shock.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/investigation-underway-into-chevrons-deadly-fire-in-pascagoula
Chevron fire reminds officials how dangerous the refinery can be
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -Authorities have identified the only victim of the
Chevron plant fire as 49-year-old Tonya Grady, of Alabama. She had worked
at the refinery for five years. Fire crews from Chevron managed to get the
blaze under control, but Jackson County fire crews were on site to back
them up.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23985206/chevron-fire-reminds-jackson-county-officials-how-dangerous-refinery-can-be
Alabama woman killed in Chevron's Pascagoula Refinery explosion
Sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON
November 16, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- An early-morning explosion and fire Friday at the Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery killed a plant operator, sent up a huge plume of smoke
and rattled windows and doors of homes in nearby neighborhoods.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/16/5119756/alabama-woman-killed-in-chevrons.html
Starkville home to largest solar array in Mississippi
Commercial Dispatch
November 16, 2013 10:22:32 PM
William Browning - wbrowning@cdispatch.com
STARKVILLE -- For years and years the guys behind Synergetics were
interested in solar power but never pulled the trigger.
http://www.cdispatch.com/news/article.asp?aid=28917
Gulf Coast Research lab restocks south Mississippi rivers with striped bass
fingerlings
The Associated Press
November 18, 2013 at 5:47 AM
JACKSON, Mississippi -- A coastal research agency and the Mississippi
wildlife department have programs ongoing to restock Mississippi rivers and
streams with fish.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/gulf_coast_research_lab_restoc.html#incart_river
New Leadership Works To Get Troubled DMR Back On Track
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 17 NOV 2013 11:02PM
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is trying to get back on
track after 10 former DMR employees, including the previous director of the
agency, allegedly embezzled more than $1 million in state funds starting in
2006. Seven of those employees are now facing criminal charges too.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/new_leadership_works_to_get_troubled_dmr_back_on_track
Pension results: Better or not?
Accounting makes both scenarios true
AP
Mississippi's public employee pension fund saw its financial position
improve last year.
Or it didn't.
http://www.clarionledger.com/viewart/20131118/NEWS01/311180012/Pension-results-Better-not-
National
For First Time, E.P.A. Proposes Reducing Ethanol Requirement for Gas Mix
NY Times
By MATTHEW L. WALD
WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed
reducing the amount of ethanol that is required to be mixed with the
gasoline supply, the first time it has taken steps to slow down the drive
to replace fossil fuels with renewable forms of energy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/16/us/for-first-time-epa-proposes-reducing-ethanol-requirement-for-gas-mix.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Hitting the Brake on Ethanol
Government Proposes Easing Level of Corn-Based Additive Required in
Gasoline
Wall Street Journal
By TENNILLE TRACY And KEITH JOHNSON
Updated Nov. 15, 2013 7:47 p.m. ET
WASHINGTON—The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed for the
first time to ease an annual requirement for ethanol in gasoline, saying
that levels mandated in a 2007 law are difficult, if not impossible, to
meet.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579195910936634756?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Obama touts clean energy agenda
The HIll
By Cameron Joseph
President Obama focused on energy independence in his weekly address,
following a week dominated by the chaotic rollout of his signature
healthcare law.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190483-obama-touts-clean-energy-agenda
House Republicans tell EPA to step down on new power plant rules
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Leaders from the House Energy and Commerce Committee called on the
Environmental Protection Agency to withdraw its proposed greenhouse gas
standards for new power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190464-house-republicans-tell-epa-step-down-on-carbon-rules
Opinion
Big Ethanol Finally Loses
The political fuel is losing support as its costs and harm grow.
Wall Street Journal
Nov. 17, 2013 6:07 p.m. ET
It's not often that the ethanol lobby suffers a policy setback in
Washington, but it got its head handed to it Friday. The Environmental
Protection Agency announced that for the first time it is lowering the
federal mandate that dictates how much ethanol must be blended into the
nation's gasoline. It's about time. It's been about time from the moment
the ethanol mandate came to life in the 1970s.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579198081681248494?mod=trending_now_5
Press Releases
EPA Proposes 2014 Renewable Fuel Standards
Proposal Seeks Input to Address "E10 Blend Wall," Reaffirms Commitment to
Biofuels
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today proposed
for public comment the levels of renewable fuels to be blended into
gasoline and diesel as required by Congress under the Energy Independence
and Security Act of 2007. Developed with input from the U.S. Department of
Energy and U.S. Department of Agriculture, the proposal seeks public input
on annual volume requirements for renewable fuels in all motor vehicle
gasoline and diesel produced or imported by the United States in 2014. The
proposal seeks to put the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program on a steady
path forward – ensuring the continued long-term growth of the renewable
fuel industry – while seeking input on different approaches to address the
"E10 blend wall."
"Biofuels are a key part of the Obama Administration's "all of the above"
energy strategy, helping to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, cut
carbon pollution and create jobs," said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.
"We have made great progress in recent years, and EPA continues to support
the RFS goal of increasing biofuel production and use. We look forward to
working with all stakeholders to develop a final rule that maintains the
strength and promise of the RFS program."
The proposal discusses a variety of approaches for setting the 2014
standards, and includes a number of production and consumption ranges for
key categories of biofuel covered by the RFS program. The proposal seeks
comment on a range of total renewable fuel volumes for 2014 and proposes a
level within that range of 15.21 billion gallons. Specifically, EPA is
seeking comment on the following proposed volumes:
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Category |Proposed Volume a | Range |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
|Cellulosic biofuel | 17 mill gal | 8-30 million gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Biomass-based | 1.28 bill gal | 1.28 billion gallons |
| diesel | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Advanced biofuel | 2.20 bill gal |2.0-2.51 billion gallons|
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Renewable fuel | 15.21 bill gal | 15.00-15.52 billion |
| | | gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
|aAll volumes are | | |
|ethanol-equivalent,| | |
|except for | | |
|biomass-based | | |
|diesel which is | | |
|actual | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
Nearly all gasoline sold in the U.S. is now "E10," which is fuel with up to
10 percent ethanol. Production of renewable fuels has been growing rapidly
in recent years. At the same time, advances in vehicle fuel economy and
other economic factors have pushed gasoline consumption far lower than what
was expected when Congress passed the Renewable Fuel Standard in 2007. As a
result, we are now at the "E10 blend wall," the point at which the E10 fuel
pool is saturated with ethanol. If gasoline demand continues to decline, as
currently forecast, continuing growth in the use of ethanol will require
greater use of higher ethanol blends such as E15 and E85.
The Obama Administration has taken a number of steps to allow or encourage
the use of these higher ethanol blends. In 2010, EPA approved E15 for use
in vehicles newer than model year 2001 and developed labeling rules to
enable retailers to market E15. In addition, since 2011, USDA has made
funding available through the Rural Energy for America Program to support
deployment of "flex-fuel" pumps that can dispense a range of ethanol
blends. The 2014 proposal seeks input on what additional actions could be
taken by government and industry to help overcome current market
challenges, and to minimize the need for adjustments in the statutory
renewable fuel volume requirements in the future. Looking forward, the
proposal clearly indicates that growth in capacity for ethanol consumption
would continuously be reflected in the standards set beyond 2014. EPA looks
forward to further engagement and additional information from stakeholders
as the agency works in consultation with the Departments of Agriculture and
Energy toward the development of a final rule.
The renewable fuels program was developed by Congress in an effort to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand the nation's renewable fuels
sector while reducing reliance on foreign oil. The standards determine how
much renewable fuel a refiner or importer is responsible for, and are the
standards designed to achieve the national volumes for each type of
renewable fuel.
Today, in a separate action, EPA is also seeking comment on petitions for a
waiver of the renewable fuel standards that would apply in 2014. EPA
expects that a determination on the substance of the petitions will be
issued at the same time that EPA issues a final rule establishing the 2014
RFS.
Once the proposal is published in the Federal Register, it will be open to
a 60-day public comment period.
More information on the standards and regulations:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/regulations.htm
More information on renewable fuels:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/index.htm
Friday, November 15, 2013
News Clippings 11/15/13
11.15.2013
Oil Spill
DEQ announces first three South Mississippi programs to be funded from BP
oil spill money
Sun Herald
BY KAREN NELSON
MOSS POINT -- The head of Mississippi's Department of Environmental Quality
chose a bend in the Escatawpa River as a backdrop when she announced plans
for $7.5 million in restoration projects along the Coast.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/14/5114950/deq-announces-three-multi-million.html
BP millions awarded for coastal restoration projects
WLOX
MOSS POINT, MS (WLOX) -Preserving wetlands, counting birds and addressing
flooding concerns. Those are among the restoration initiatives that will be
funded with the first money from the BP criminal settlement.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23969001/bp-millions-awarded-for-coastal-restoration-projects
MDEQ receives $8.2 million of an expected $356 million for Gulf restoration
projects
Mississippi Press
April M. Havens
November 14, 2013 at 1:49 PM
MOSS POINT, Mississippi -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality has received $8.2 million from the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation to fund three conservation projects on the coast, leaders
announced at an afternoon press conference.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/mdeq_receives_82_million_of_an.html#incart_river
Mississippi Receives $7.5 Million for Restoration Projects
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 14 NOV 2013
Mississippi has received $7.5 million for three projects intended to repair
environmental damage caused by the 2010 BP oil spill.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/mississippi_receives_7.5_million_for_restoration_projects
M.D.E.Q. Works to Restore the Coast
WXXV
Monies by BP and Transocean are finally being allocated. A big announcement
was made today regarding three conservation projects. The Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality (M.D.E.Q.) announced the holders of the
funding. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (N.F.W.F.) will give 8.2
million to launch the projects.
http://www.wxxv25.com/news/local/story/M-D-E-Q-Works-to-Restore-the-Coast/pDmSZ6sDqEm59t89Peqrig.cspx
Gulf states get first $113M from oil spill fines
AP
JACKSON – The five states that border the Gulf of Mexico are getting $113
million to improve the environment, the first small chunk of $2.5 billion
that BP and Transocean were fined as a result of criminal pleas last year
following the 2010 Gulf oil spill.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/viewart/20131115/NEWS01/311150013/Gulf-states-get-first-113M-from-oil-spill-fines
First round of BP coastal restoration funding announced with Alabama
receiving $12.6M, Mississippi $7.5M
Press-Register
Marc D. Anderson
November 14, 2013 at 6:19 PM
In a step toward fulfilling BP's obligation to the Gulf states following
the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation on Thursday awarded $113 million in funding for 22 coastal
restoration projects in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
http://blog.al.com/live/2013/11/first_round_of_bp_coastal_rest.html
National foundation awards Louisiana first $68 million from BP, Transocean
criminal fines for coastal restoration
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 2:02 PM
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Thursday (Nov. 14) said it
awarded $67.9 million in planning and design money for two Louisiana
barrier island restoration projects and a major sediment diversion, part of
the state's coastal restoration and storm surge protection Master Plan.
http://www.nola.com/weather/index.ssf/2013/11/national_fish_and_wildlife_fou.html#incart_river
Pensacola to receive $2 million in BP cash
Pensacola News Journal
The City of Pensacola will receive more than $2 million in the first round
of projects to be funded from criminal fines levied against BP and
Transocean after the 2010 Gulf oil spill, city officials announced today.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131115/NEWS01/311150027/Pensacola-receive-2-million-BP-cash
$4.19 million earmarked for Apalachicola oyster industry
By ZACK McDONALD | The News Herald
Published: Thursday, November 14, 2013 at 19:35 PM.
PANAMA CITY — The first wave of relief is on its way following the 2010
Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the form of $15.7 million along the
Panhandle, officials announced Thursday.
http://www.newsherald.com/news/business/4-19-million-earmarked-for-apalachicola-oyster-industry-1.235065
State
Detonation, fire kills one at Chevron Pascagoula Refinery
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -WLOX News has confirmed a deadly fire at Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery. Chevron officials tell us one person is dead. That
employee's family has been notified. However, Chevron is not releasing the
victim's name yet.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/one-dead-in-overnight-fire-at-chevron-pascagoula-refinery
Chevron Pascagoula Refinery reports early-morning explosion, fire, 1
fatality at processing unit
Mississippi Press
Gareth Clary
November 15, 2013 at 7:16 AM
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- An explosion and fire at the Chevron Pascagoula
Refinery Friday morning killed one employee and injured another, according
to authorities.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/chevron_pascagoula_refinery_re.html#incart_river
One dead in fire at Chevron's Pascagoula refinery
sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON AND PATRICK OCHS
PASCAGOULA -- The Chevron Pascagoula Refinery has confirmed that a 2 a.m.
fire in one of its processing units killed a worker.
Alan Sudduth, spokesman for Chevron in Mississippi, said "refinery teams
responded, the site is secure and there is no danger to the community.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116922/one-dead-in-fire-at-chevrons-pascagoula.html
Audubon transfers 22 endangered cranes from New Orleans rearing facility to
Mississippi refuge
Benjamin Alexander-Bloch
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 5:04 PM
Audubon Nature Institute staff this week bid adieu to 22 critically
endangered Mississippi sandhill cranes after having helped breed them, then
rear them in New Orleans during the birds' first 6 months of life.
On Thursday, the last fledglings left the Species Survival Center on the
West Bank and arrived at the only place on earth where the cranes are still
found in the wild: the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge
in Jackson County, Miss.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/11/audubon_transfers_22_endangere.html#incart_river
Regional
TVA closing 8 coal units at plants in Ala. and Ky.
BY TRAVIS LOLLER
Associated PressNovember 15, 2013
The nation's largest public utility is shuttering eight coal-fired boilers
at plants in Alabama and Kentucky, and more reductions could be in store
over the next few years.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116816/tva-closing-8-coal-units-at-plants.html
National
EPA assailed on power plant regulations
The Hill
A slew of Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee asked an
Environmental Protection Agency official essentially the same question
Thursday: What planet are you on?
GOP lawmakers blasted the EPA's proposed climate rules for new power plants
at a hearing, arguing that the rule forces coal plants to use
carbon-trapping technologies that aren't ready for prime time.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190269-epa-assailed-on-power-plant-carbon-regs
Rep. Smith targets EPA use of 'secret science'
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) plans to introduce legislation in the coming
weeks that would stop the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from using
"secret science" as a basis for regulation.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190319-rep-smith-to-introduce-bill-stopping-epa-use-of-secret-science
House readies vote to thwart 'fracking' regs
The Hill
By Ben Geman
The House will likely vote next week on GOP bills that would block Interior
Department regulation of oil and gas "fracking" and set new deadlines for
drilling permit approvals.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190324-house-readies-vote-to-thwart-fracking-regs
EPA chief: Fuel mandate safe for cars
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Environmental Protection Agency chief Gina McCarthy said on Thursday she
remains confident that the gasoline blend for the 2014 renewable fuel
mandate is safe for vehicles.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190258-epa-chief-renewable-fuel-mandate-safe-for-cars
Press Releases
Mississippi Emerging as Regional Leader in Energy Efficiency
Portfolio of Policies and Programs Could Meet 13% of Electricity and 10% of
Natural Gas Demand, Create 32,000 Jobs, and Generate $4.3 billion in
Economic Growth by 2025
In the last year, Mississippi has advanced a suite of policies that have
the state poised to become a regional leader in energy efficiency efforts,
and could save the state billions while creating thousands of jobs. These
findings come from a new report released today by the American Council for
an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE), A Guide to Growing an Energy-Efficient
Economy in Mississippi.
In October 2012, Gov. Phil Bryant released his energy plan, Energy Works:
Mississippi's Energy Roadmap. The plan signaling the state's intent to
aggressively develop its vast energy resources, including energy
efficiency, in order to spur economic development. The proactive leadership
in the state, both public and private, has helped catapult Mississippi to
the most improved state in the country in this year's State Energy
Efficiency Scorecard. Only a year ago, Mississippi ranked last place in
ACEEE's annual Scorecard, which ranks states according to their efforts to
save energy.
"One of the goals of Energy Works is expanding Mississippi's energy
capacity through efficiency, and we are proud to see these efforts pay
off," Gov. Bryant said. "Energy is one of Mississippi's most important
resources. Increased efficiency will help improve the competitiveness of
Mississippi's businesses, attract new companies to the state, and improve
the reliability of our energy system."
"Governor Bryant and leaders across the state have made laudable strides,
enacting a number of intelligent, common-sense policies that will help to
stimulate the local economy and meet the growing energy needs of the state
for years to come," said ACEEE executive director Steven Nadel.
ACEEE's report concludes that through these policies Mississippi could
create 32,000 jobs and free up $4.3 billion over the next decade.
"There is a significant opportunity for energy efficiency savings in
Mississippi, and our report is intended as a guide to help inform the
process of capturing as much of this opportunity as possible over the next
10 years," said Max Neubauer, senior policy analyst and lead author of the
report. "The report outlines a comprehensive---but not exhaustive---set of
strategic energy efficiency policy and program opportunities that
Mississippi and its utilities can consider when developing their
portfolios. The report also offers insight into prudent regulatory policy
that will help ensure that Mississippi gets the most out of its future
investments."
Mississippi is quickly moving forward with energy efficiency investments,
spurred by state policies and existing utility energy efficiency programs.
In October, the Tennessee Valley Authority and Severstal, an auto-grade
steel manufacturer, celebrated the successful completion of energy
efficiency improvements to Severstal's facility in Columbus, Miss. The
improvements will save Severstal approximately $1.6 million in energy costs
annually and save enough energy to power 2,000 homes.
"The progress we've seen in the past year is a direct result of Governor
Bryant's focused leadership in this area," said Karen Bishop, director of
the Mississippi Development Authority's Energy and Natural Resources
Division. "We are working closely with the private sector and our utility
partners, as well as state agencies and local governments, and I expect
that Mississippi will continue to rise in the ACEEE Scorecard rankings in
the coming years."
Mississippi's efforts will serve as an example for other states to emulate.
The policies and programs developed and administered by state agencies and
utilities will guide efforts elsewhere, expediting greater economic
development throughout the region.
To read the report visit: http://aceee.org/research-report/e13m
About ACEEE: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy acts as a
catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies,
investments, and behaviors. For information about ACEEE and its programs,
publications, and conferences, visit aceee.org.
###
EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Testimony Before House Committee on
Science, Space and Technology
WASHINGTON – As prepared for delivery.
Good morning Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Johnson, and other
distinguished members of the Committee. I am pleased to be here to talk
about the central role science plays at the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
Let me begin by stating that science is and has always been the backbone of
the EPA's decision-making. The Agency's ability to pursue its mission to
protect human health and the environment depends upon the integrity of the
science upon which it relies. I firmly believe that environmental policies,
decisions, guidance, and regulations that impact the lives of all Americans
must be grounded, at a most fundamental level, in sound, high quality,
transparent, science.
Because we rely so heavily on science to meet our mission on behalf of the
American people, it must be conducted in ways that are transparent, free
from bias and conflicts of interest, and of the highest quality, integrity,
and credibility. These qualities are important not just within our own
organization and the federal government, but across the scientific
community, with its long established and highly honorable commitment to
maintaining strict adherence to ethical investigation and research. That's
why the agency has established—and embraced—a Scientific Integrity Policy
that builds upon existing Agency and government-wide policies and guidance
documents, explicitly outlining the EPA's commitment to the highest
standards of scientific integrity. And that commitment extends to any
scientist or organization who wishes to contribute to our efforts. All
EPA-funded research projects, whether conducted by EPA scientists or
outside grantees and collaborators, must comply with the agency's rigorous
quality assurance requirements.
To ensure that we have the best possible science, we are committed to
rigorous, independent peer review of the scientific data, models and
analyses that support our decisions. Peer review can take a number of
forms, ranging from external reviews by the National Academy of Sciences or
the EPA's federal advisory committees to contractor-coordinated reviews.
Consistent with OMB guidance, we require peer review for all EPA research
products and for all influential scientific information and highly
influential scientific assessments.
Among the external advisory committees is the EPA Science Advisory Board
(SAB). SAB reviews are conducted by groups of independent non-EPA
scientists with the range of expertise required for the particular advisory
topic. We invite the public to nominate experts for SAB panels and to
comment on candidates being considered by the EPA for SAB panels. The EPA
evaluates public comments and information submitted about SAB nominees. The
EPA reviews experts' confidential financial information to ensure that
there are no conflicts of interest.
SAB peer reviews are conducted in public sessions in compliance with the
open-government requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The
public is invited to attend and to provide oral and written comments for
consideration by the SAB. Public comments help to ensure that all relevant
scientific and technical issues are available to the SAB as it reviews the
science that will support our environmental decisions.
Another example is the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC)
which provides independent advice to the EPA Administrator on the science
that supports the EPA's National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The CASAC
reviews the EPA's Integrated Science Assessments which deliver science in
support of the Clean Air Act.
Thanks to the science behind the implementation of the Clean Air Act, we
have made significant and far-reaching improvements in the health and
well-being of the American public. In 2010 alone, EPA estimates that
programs implemented pursuant to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990
avoided 160,000 premature deaths millions of cases of respiratory problems
such as acute bronchitis and asthma attacks; 45,000 cardiovascular
hospitalizations; and 41,000 hospital admissions. These improvements have
all occurred during a period of economic growth; between1970 and 2012 the
Gross Domestic Product increased by 219 percent.
Through a transparent and open process, we have also committed to enhancing
the Agency's Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) assessment program.
A strong, scientifically rigorous IRIS Program is of critical importance,
and the EPA is in the process of: 1) enhancing the scientific integrity of
assessments; 2) enhancing the productivity of the Program; and 3)
increasing transparency so that issues are identified and debated early in
the process. In 2009, the EPA made significant enhancements to IRIS by
announcing a new 7-step assessment development process. Since that time,
the National Research Council (NRC) has made recommendations related to
enhancing the development of IRIS assessments. The EPA is making changes to
the IRIS Program to implement the NRC recommendations. These changes will
help the EPA produce more high quality IRIS assessments each year in a
timely and transparent manner to meet the needs of the Agency and the
public. A newly released NRC report is largely supportive of the enhanced
approach the EPA is taking to develop the IRIS assessment for inorganic
arsenic.
As I mentioned in my opening statement, science is the backbone of our
decision-making and our work is based on the principles of scientific
integrity and transparency that are both expected and deserved by the
American people. I am proud of the EPA's research efforts and the sound use
of science and technology to fulfill the EPA's mission to protect human
health and safeguard the natural environment.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I am happy to
answer any questions you may have at this time.
Oil Spill
DEQ announces first three South Mississippi programs to be funded from BP
oil spill money
Sun Herald
BY KAREN NELSON
MOSS POINT -- The head of Mississippi's Department of Environmental Quality
chose a bend in the Escatawpa River as a backdrop when she announced plans
for $7.5 million in restoration projects along the Coast.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/14/5114950/deq-announces-three-multi-million.html
BP millions awarded for coastal restoration projects
WLOX
MOSS POINT, MS (WLOX) -Preserving wetlands, counting birds and addressing
flooding concerns. Those are among the restoration initiatives that will be
funded with the first money from the BP criminal settlement.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23969001/bp-millions-awarded-for-coastal-restoration-projects
MDEQ receives $8.2 million of an expected $356 million for Gulf restoration
projects
Mississippi Press
April M. Havens
November 14, 2013 at 1:49 PM
MOSS POINT, Mississippi -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality has received $8.2 million from the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation to fund three conservation projects on the coast, leaders
announced at an afternoon press conference.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/mdeq_receives_82_million_of_an.html#incart_river
Mississippi Receives $7.5 Million for Restoration Projects
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 14 NOV 2013
Mississippi has received $7.5 million for three projects intended to repair
environmental damage caused by the 2010 BP oil spill.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/mississippi_receives_7.5_million_for_restoration_projects
M.D.E.Q. Works to Restore the Coast
WXXV
Monies by BP and Transocean are finally being allocated. A big announcement
was made today regarding three conservation projects. The Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality (M.D.E.Q.) announced the holders of the
funding. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (N.F.W.F.) will give 8.2
million to launch the projects.
http://www.wxxv25.com/news/local/story/M-D-E-Q-Works-to-Restore-the-Coast/pDmSZ6sDqEm59t89Peqrig.cspx
Gulf states get first $113M from oil spill fines
AP
JACKSON – The five states that border the Gulf of Mexico are getting $113
million to improve the environment, the first small chunk of $2.5 billion
that BP and Transocean were fined as a result of criminal pleas last year
following the 2010 Gulf oil spill.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/viewart/20131115/NEWS01/311150013/Gulf-states-get-first-113M-from-oil-spill-fines
First round of BP coastal restoration funding announced with Alabama
receiving $12.6M, Mississippi $7.5M
Press-Register
Marc D. Anderson
November 14, 2013 at 6:19 PM
In a step toward fulfilling BP's obligation to the Gulf states following
the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation on Thursday awarded $113 million in funding for 22 coastal
restoration projects in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
http://blog.al.com/live/2013/11/first_round_of_bp_coastal_rest.html
National foundation awards Louisiana first $68 million from BP, Transocean
criminal fines for coastal restoration
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 2:02 PM
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Thursday (Nov. 14) said it
awarded $67.9 million in planning and design money for two Louisiana
barrier island restoration projects and a major sediment diversion, part of
the state's coastal restoration and storm surge protection Master Plan.
http://www.nola.com/weather/index.ssf/2013/11/national_fish_and_wildlife_fou.html#incart_river
Pensacola to receive $2 million in BP cash
Pensacola News Journal
The City of Pensacola will receive more than $2 million in the first round
of projects to be funded from criminal fines levied against BP and
Transocean after the 2010 Gulf oil spill, city officials announced today.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131115/NEWS01/311150027/Pensacola-receive-2-million-BP-cash
$4.19 million earmarked for Apalachicola oyster industry
By ZACK McDONALD | The News Herald
Published: Thursday, November 14, 2013 at 19:35 PM.
PANAMA CITY — The first wave of relief is on its way following the 2010
Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the form of $15.7 million along the
Panhandle, officials announced Thursday.
http://www.newsherald.com/news/business/4-19-million-earmarked-for-apalachicola-oyster-industry-1.235065
State
Detonation, fire kills one at Chevron Pascagoula Refinery
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -WLOX News has confirmed a deadly fire at Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery. Chevron officials tell us one person is dead. That
employee's family has been notified. However, Chevron is not releasing the
victim's name yet.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/one-dead-in-overnight-fire-at-chevron-pascagoula-refinery
Chevron Pascagoula Refinery reports early-morning explosion, fire, 1
fatality at processing unit
Mississippi Press
Gareth Clary
November 15, 2013 at 7:16 AM
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- An explosion and fire at the Chevron Pascagoula
Refinery Friday morning killed one employee and injured another, according
to authorities.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/chevron_pascagoula_refinery_re.html#incart_river
One dead in fire at Chevron's Pascagoula refinery
sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON AND PATRICK OCHS
PASCAGOULA -- The Chevron Pascagoula Refinery has confirmed that a 2 a.m.
fire in one of its processing units killed a worker.
Alan Sudduth, spokesman for Chevron in Mississippi, said "refinery teams
responded, the site is secure and there is no danger to the community.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116922/one-dead-in-fire-at-chevrons-pascagoula.html
Audubon transfers 22 endangered cranes from New Orleans rearing facility to
Mississippi refuge
Benjamin Alexander-Bloch
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 5:04 PM
Audubon Nature Institute staff this week bid adieu to 22 critically
endangered Mississippi sandhill cranes after having helped breed them, then
rear them in New Orleans during the birds' first 6 months of life.
On Thursday, the last fledglings left the Species Survival Center on the
West Bank and arrived at the only place on earth where the cranes are still
found in the wild: the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge
in Jackson County, Miss.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/11/audubon_transfers_22_endangere.html#incart_river
Regional
TVA closing 8 coal units at plants in Ala. and Ky.
BY TRAVIS LOLLER
Associated PressNovember 15, 2013
The nation's largest public utility is shuttering eight coal-fired boilers
at plants in Alabama and Kentucky, and more reductions could be in store
over the next few years.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116816/tva-closing-8-coal-units-at-plants.html
National
EPA assailed on power plant regulations
The Hill
A slew of Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee asked an
Environmental Protection Agency official essentially the same question
Thursday: What planet are you on?
GOP lawmakers blasted the EPA's proposed climate rules for new power plants
at a hearing, arguing that the rule forces coal plants to use
carbon-trapping technologies that aren't ready for prime time.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190269-epa-assailed-on-power-plant-carbon-regs
Rep. Smith targets EPA use of 'secret science'
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) plans to introduce legislation in the coming
weeks that would stop the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from using
"secret science" as a basis for regulation.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190319-rep-smith-to-introduce-bill-stopping-epa-use-of-secret-science
House readies vote to thwart 'fracking' regs
The Hill
By Ben Geman
The House will likely vote next week on GOP bills that would block Interior
Department regulation of oil and gas "fracking" and set new deadlines for
drilling permit approvals.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190324-house-readies-vote-to-thwart-fracking-regs
EPA chief: Fuel mandate safe for cars
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Environmental Protection Agency chief Gina McCarthy said on Thursday she
remains confident that the gasoline blend for the 2014 renewable fuel
mandate is safe for vehicles.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190258-epa-chief-renewable-fuel-mandate-safe-for-cars
Press Releases
Mississippi Emerging as Regional Leader in Energy Efficiency
Portfolio of Policies and Programs Could Meet 13% of Electricity and 10% of
Natural Gas Demand, Create 32,000 Jobs, and Generate $4.3 billion in
Economic Growth by 2025
In the last year, Mississippi has advanced a suite of policies that have
the state poised to become a regional leader in energy efficiency efforts,
and could save the state billions while creating thousands of jobs. These
findings come from a new report released today by the American Council for
an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE), A Guide to Growing an Energy-Efficient
Economy in Mississippi.
In October 2012, Gov. Phil Bryant released his energy plan, Energy Works:
Mississippi's Energy Roadmap. The plan signaling the state's intent to
aggressively develop its vast energy resources, including energy
efficiency, in order to spur economic development. The proactive leadership
in the state, both public and private, has helped catapult Mississippi to
the most improved state in the country in this year's State Energy
Efficiency Scorecard. Only a year ago, Mississippi ranked last place in
ACEEE's annual Scorecard, which ranks states according to their efforts to
save energy.
"One of the goals of Energy Works is expanding Mississippi's energy
capacity through efficiency, and we are proud to see these efforts pay
off," Gov. Bryant said. "Energy is one of Mississippi's most important
resources. Increased efficiency will help improve the competitiveness of
Mississippi's businesses, attract new companies to the state, and improve
the reliability of our energy system."
"Governor Bryant and leaders across the state have made laudable strides,
enacting a number of intelligent, common-sense policies that will help to
stimulate the local economy and meet the growing energy needs of the state
for years to come," said ACEEE executive director Steven Nadel.
ACEEE's report concludes that through these policies Mississippi could
create 32,000 jobs and free up $4.3 billion over the next decade.
"There is a significant opportunity for energy efficiency savings in
Mississippi, and our report is intended as a guide to help inform the
process of capturing as much of this opportunity as possible over the next
10 years," said Max Neubauer, senior policy analyst and lead author of the
report. "The report outlines a comprehensive---but not exhaustive---set of
strategic energy efficiency policy and program opportunities that
Mississippi and its utilities can consider when developing their
portfolios. The report also offers insight into prudent regulatory policy
that will help ensure that Mississippi gets the most out of its future
investments."
Mississippi is quickly moving forward with energy efficiency investments,
spurred by state policies and existing utility energy efficiency programs.
In October, the Tennessee Valley Authority and Severstal, an auto-grade
steel manufacturer, celebrated the successful completion of energy
efficiency improvements to Severstal's facility in Columbus, Miss. The
improvements will save Severstal approximately $1.6 million in energy costs
annually and save enough energy to power 2,000 homes.
"The progress we've seen in the past year is a direct result of Governor
Bryant's focused leadership in this area," said Karen Bishop, director of
the Mississippi Development Authority's Energy and Natural Resources
Division. "We are working closely with the private sector and our utility
partners, as well as state agencies and local governments, and I expect
that Mississippi will continue to rise in the ACEEE Scorecard rankings in
the coming years."
Mississippi's efforts will serve as an example for other states to emulate.
The policies and programs developed and administered by state agencies and
utilities will guide efforts elsewhere, expediting greater economic
development throughout the region.
To read the report visit: http://aceee.org/research-report/e13m
About ACEEE: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy acts as a
catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies,
investments, and behaviors. For information about ACEEE and its programs,
publications, and conferences, visit aceee.org.
###
EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Testimony Before House Committee on
Science, Space and Technology
WASHINGTON – As prepared for delivery.
Good morning Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Johnson, and other
distinguished members of the Committee. I am pleased to be here to talk
about the central role science plays at the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
Let me begin by stating that science is and has always been the backbone of
the EPA's decision-making. The Agency's ability to pursue its mission to
protect human health and the environment depends upon the integrity of the
science upon which it relies. I firmly believe that environmental policies,
decisions, guidance, and regulations that impact the lives of all Americans
must be grounded, at a most fundamental level, in sound, high quality,
transparent, science.
Because we rely so heavily on science to meet our mission on behalf of the
American people, it must be conducted in ways that are transparent, free
from bias and conflicts of interest, and of the highest quality, integrity,
and credibility. These qualities are important not just within our own
organization and the federal government, but across the scientific
community, with its long established and highly honorable commitment to
maintaining strict adherence to ethical investigation and research. That's
why the agency has established—and embraced—a Scientific Integrity Policy
that builds upon existing Agency and government-wide policies and guidance
documents, explicitly outlining the EPA's commitment to the highest
standards of scientific integrity. And that commitment extends to any
scientist or organization who wishes to contribute to our efforts. All
EPA-funded research projects, whether conducted by EPA scientists or
outside grantees and collaborators, must comply with the agency's rigorous
quality assurance requirements.
To ensure that we have the best possible science, we are committed to
rigorous, independent peer review of the scientific data, models and
analyses that support our decisions. Peer review can take a number of
forms, ranging from external reviews by the National Academy of Sciences or
the EPA's federal advisory committees to contractor-coordinated reviews.
Consistent with OMB guidance, we require peer review for all EPA research
products and for all influential scientific information and highly
influential scientific assessments.
Among the external advisory committees is the EPA Science Advisory Board
(SAB). SAB reviews are conducted by groups of independent non-EPA
scientists with the range of expertise required for the particular advisory
topic. We invite the public to nominate experts for SAB panels and to
comment on candidates being considered by the EPA for SAB panels. The EPA
evaluates public comments and information submitted about SAB nominees. The
EPA reviews experts' confidential financial information to ensure that
there are no conflicts of interest.
SAB peer reviews are conducted in public sessions in compliance with the
open-government requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The
public is invited to attend and to provide oral and written comments for
consideration by the SAB. Public comments help to ensure that all relevant
scientific and technical issues are available to the SAB as it reviews the
science that will support our environmental decisions.
Another example is the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC)
which provides independent advice to the EPA Administrator on the science
that supports the EPA's National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The CASAC
reviews the EPA's Integrated Science Assessments which deliver science in
support of the Clean Air Act.
Thanks to the science behind the implementation of the Clean Air Act, we
have made significant and far-reaching improvements in the health and
well-being of the American public. In 2010 alone, EPA estimates that
programs implemented pursuant to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990
avoided 160,000 premature deaths millions of cases of respiratory problems
such as acute bronchitis and asthma attacks; 45,000 cardiovascular
hospitalizations; and 41,000 hospital admissions. These improvements have
all occurred during a period of economic growth; between1970 and 2012 the
Gross Domestic Product increased by 219 percent.
Through a transparent and open process, we have also committed to enhancing
the Agency's Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) assessment program.
A strong, scientifically rigorous IRIS Program is of critical importance,
and the EPA is in the process of: 1) enhancing the scientific integrity of
assessments; 2) enhancing the productivity of the Program; and 3)
increasing transparency so that issues are identified and debated early in
the process. In 2009, the EPA made significant enhancements to IRIS by
announcing a new 7-step assessment development process. Since that time,
the National Research Council (NRC) has made recommendations related to
enhancing the development of IRIS assessments. The EPA is making changes to
the IRIS Program to implement the NRC recommendations. These changes will
help the EPA produce more high quality IRIS assessments each year in a
timely and transparent manner to meet the needs of the Agency and the
public. A newly released NRC report is largely supportive of the enhanced
approach the EPA is taking to develop the IRIS assessment for inorganic
arsenic.
As I mentioned in my opening statement, science is the backbone of our
decision-making and our work is based on the principles of scientific
integrity and transparency that are both expected and deserved by the
American people. I am proud of the EPA's research efforts and the sound use
of science and technology to fulfill the EPA's mission to protect human
health and safeguard the natural environment.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I am happy to
answer any questions you may have at this time.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)