Cool Cities Climate Action Plan Forum: Links

Visit:
www.coolmayors.org or
Cool Cities Climate Action Plan Forum:
http://coolcities.us/forum/viewforum.php?f=11

Golden Gate's ZEB

In partnership with AC transit, the East Bay transit agency, Golden Gate Transit will soon be receiving a zero- emission, hydrogen fuel cell bus, shortened to ZEB, for demonstration runs.
Email events@goldengate.org or call 511, and request the Green brochure for more information.

California to ban raw milk? Take action today

A new proposed rule in California (AB 1735) will ban raw milk sales as of January 2008.
All key assembly representatives support overturning AB 1735.
However, your assemblymen have expressed concern that we do not have the support of the California Secretary of Agriculture, Mr. A.G. Kawamura.
He appears to be the last raw milk challenge standing.

Contact the CA Secretary of Agriculture immediately!

Please call him today and send out as many letters and faxes as possible.

A.G. Kawamura Secretary of Food and Agriculture

1220 N St., Suite 400

Sacramento, Ca.  95814

(916) 654-0321 or (916) 654-0433
Fax: 916-654-0403

The message to him should be very strong, yet respectful. The talking points we suggest may sound harsh but they reflect the truth (see "Background" below). The Secretary needs to know what has happened on his watch:

---Certain corrupt staff members within CDFA have personal prejudice against raw milk. They have participated and conspired in an illegal, secret, and silent process to deny California consumers their access to raw milk.

---Demand that the Ag Secretary use his power to immediately suspend or reverse AB 1735 and the "less-than-10 coliform" standard for raw milk in California.

---Demand that the CDFA staff who misrepresented raw milk science and snuck the groundless coliform standard into AB 1735 be dismissed immediately.

Background:

We have discovered that certain staff members in CDFA actually committed crimes by "introducing negative language into a bill which would be applied to an industry which it regulates." This is outrageous illegal activity; it defies written administrative policy and must not be tolerated within CDFA. The normal legal process requires CDFA to bring any legislative language to the attention of the governors office prior to contacting an assembly committee. CDFA misrepresented facts, claiming AB 1735 was so insignificant that it could be handled "as a consent item"  and did not require discussion or debate. Other substantial and material misstatements of fact also occurred to keep AB 1735 secret and silent.

This is the big event we have all been working towards. It may be the last effort needed to overcome AB 1735. Please call today and send your letters.

Organic Consumers Association <ronniecummins@organicconsumers.org> wrote:

about biofuels

Congress set to increase automotive mileage standards for the first time in decades

Washington, DC - By a vote of 235 to 181 the House today passed H.R. 6, The Energy Independence and Security Act, one of the most significant overhauls of our nation's energy policy in decades.  The legislation, which will help move the nation towards a responsible energy policy, includes increased mileage standards for automobiles, a commitment to increase the development of renewable energy sources, and a bi-partisan proposal put forth by Bay Area Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey and Congressman Roscoe Bartlett (R-MD) relating to the research and development of biofuels.  Woolsey's proposal would ensure that as the cultivation of biofuels continues to grow, their production is done in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.

"Biofuels have the potential to diversify our energy needs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but only if we pursue this path with a full understanding of the implications of biofuel production and processing," Woolsey said. "That's why my proposal specifies that in producing and developing new sources of biofuels we must ensure that their production is sustainable, and result in lower greenhouse gas emissions."

The cornerstone of the new energy policy is the first increase in fuel efficiency standards since 1975, ensuring that cars and trucks receive a minimum of 35 miles per gallon by 2020.  Not only will such an increase save American families money at the pump, on average between $700 and $1,000 annually, but it will be the environmental equivalent of removing 28 million of today's cars and trucks from our roads.

The legislation also includes a landmark mandate to ensure that 15% of our nation's electricity comes from renewable energy sources by 2020.  This mandate, coupled with increased efficiency standards for household appliances, will result in massive consumer savings of between $13-18 billion by 2020, and will reduce our nation's global warming emissions by at least 84 million metric tons per year by 2020.  Such a reduction is the equivalent of taking an additional 10-15 million vehicles off the road, and is aided by $9 billion in tax incentives aimed to spur the production of renewable energy sources and provide tax incentives to consumers who choose more efficient vehicles and appliances.

"When it comes to much of what's being proposed in this legislation, the nation is just catching up to some of the projects going on in Marin and Sonoma Counties, which are leading the way when it comes to environmental responsibility," Woolsey said.  "Many of our firms and public works projects are experimenting and developing environmentally friendly projects using cutting edge technologies such as buses that run on liquefied natural gas, increased efficiency standards in our building codes, clean and renewable energy resources at The Geysers, increased usage of solar energy by our local public utility firms, and building sustainable electric cars.

"But this bill raises the bar nationwide, setting higher standards for all of us, and all I can say is 'it's about time.'  It's about time that we have a nationwide renewable energy standard, such as the one I've put forth for biofuels, since renewable energy opportunities are available not just in Marin and Sonoma Counties, but in every corner of this nation.  This bill will help us invest in those opportunities, and make them work for a cleaner future for our children."

Part of that investment must come from the development, and commercialization, of alternative energy sources.  That's why the legislation provides funding for the research and development of alternatives such as solar; wave; geothermal; and hydrogen energy sources.

In addition to the production of alternative energies, the bill focuses on energy savings.  Besides those seen by increased appliance and automotive efficiency, the legislation calls for increased standards in the building sector, as well as in the energy usage in federal and public buildings.

"This is a good bill and we can only hope that the Senate will help get it to the President's desk," Woolsey said.

COOL CITIES ADVANCED GHG INVENTORY SOFTWARE TRAINING.

Hello Everyone

I am pleased to announce we will be holding the much anticipated ADVANCED Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory and ICLEI Clean Air and Climate Protection Software (CACPS) Training before the end of the year. We have teamed up with a technical expert from ICLEI to bring this training to Cool Cities. Creating GHG emissions inventories are a critical step in reducing GHGs, so we look forward to having you participate.

If you have attended the introductory training from Cool Cities on GHG Inventories and CACPS, and foresee the possibility that you will play a role in helping your city collect and synthesize the data necessary to complete your municipal or community wide GHG inventory, then this webcast training is for you!  If you would to gain a more in depth knowledge of GHG Inventories for local governments and communities, then this webcast is also for you!

The training will be more involved than past trainings because of the volume of material that we will cover, but you will learn about the CACP Software function in much greater detail, as well as strategies for collecting and working with GHG emissions data.  This training is also appropriate for city staff that may be working to complete a GHG Inventory. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions about the training: stephanie.cutts@sierraclub.org

We will be holding another introductory training on GHG inventories early in the New Year, as well as another opportunity for the advanced training.

ADVANCED GHG INVENTORY AND ICLEI SOFTWARE TRAINING
When: Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Time:   7 - 10 pm ET, 6 - 9 CT, 5 - 8 MT, 4 -7 PT  *NOTE: We have allotted 3 hours, but plan on going through content in 2 hours and then opening up for about 30 minutes of questions and answers. We can use the whole time if we need it.
Technology Requirements: Computer with internet access and a telephone (Webcast details will be distributed before the training)
Instructors: Alex Ramel, Program Officer, ICLEI and Stephanie Cutts, Policy Analyst, Cool Cities
RSVP: Please respond to Stephanie Cutts, stephanie.cutts@sierraclub.org by FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14



Stephanie Cutts
Policy Analyst, Cool Cities Campaign
Global Warming and Energy Program
Sierra Club
stephanie.cutts@sierraclub.org
http://coolcities.us


Stephanie.Cutts@sierraclub.org wrote:

Re: [thizzled] from Natural Logic: Green Tomorrow

Thanks, Gil
[http://www.natlogic.com]

"Join futurist Jamais Cascio for a stimulating exploration of how the sustainability revolution will transform our politics, our economics, and our lives. . . . "This webinar is part of the ongoing Carbon Neutral Learningâ„¢ program from Natural Logic, bring you engaging, practical, up-to-date guidance from leading practitioners." Series host: Gil Friend, Natural Logic CEO. Register now! Date: December 20 Time: Session begins at 1:00pm ET (12:00pm CT, 11:00am MT, 10:00am PT) Length: 60 minutes Cost: $129 per session (per location, not per person - feel free to gather your colleagues around a computer and a speakerphone) About the presenters "Jamais Cascio is co-founder of WorldChanging.com and a founding fellow at the Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies. "Cascio writes about the intersection of emerging technologies and cultural transformation, focusing on the importance of long-term, systemic thinking. "He speaks around the world on issues including the global environment, technological transformation, and political change. "In 2003, Cascio co-founded http://www.WorldChanging.com, the award-winning website identifying models, tools, and ideas for building a "bright green" future. "In March, 2006, he started http://www.OpenTheFuture.com as his online home. "Cascio presently serves as a research affiliate at the Institute for the Future, as Director of Impacts Analysis for The Center for Responsible Nanotechnology, and as a Senior Associate at Natural Logic. "Gil Friend is president and CEO of Natural Logic, Inc., a sustainability consulting firm helping clients build economic advantage through exceptional environmental performance. . . . Friend blogs at http://blogs.natlogic.com/friend." Carbon Neutral Learningâ„¢ Natural Logic PO Box 119 Berkeley, California 94701 510-248-4940 www.NatLogic.com

--
Posted By carl macki to thizzled at 12/07/2007 02:01:00 PM

Re: Carl, The Environment Thanks You

This year Goodwill of San Francisco, San Mateo and Marin Counties was able to: Divert over 17 million pounds of waste from landfill through reuse and recycling. Recycle & refurbish 59,863 computers, through our partnership with Dell, Inc. Prevent 844,478 pairs of shoes from going into the waste stream. Find new readers for 1,640,968 books. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! You can even fill out a donation form online ahead of time, to ensure those end-of-the-year tax credits. We accept almost anything in good, clean, working condition. As a guideline, if you would give it to a friend or hand it down to a relative, it's perfect for Goodwill! Thank you for your continued support, Goodwill Industries of San Francisco, San Mateo & Marin Counties	Our Mission & Van Ness store is now open.   Come visit us at: 1580 Mission Street San Francisco, CA
(Click to view this message in a browser) Donations are tax deductable. For more information, call (415) 575-2116 or visit sfgoodwill.org.

Goodwill Industries of San Francisco San Mateo And Marin Counties 1500 Mission Street San Francisco, California 94103

from Goodwill Industries Goodwill_Industries@mail.vresp.com

Re: BOOK LAUNCH: Green Building for Dummies

Green Building for Dummies <events@organicarchitect.com> wrote:

RSVP NOW

ORDER THE BOOK

PRESS RELEASE

 

Tuesday, December 11, 2007
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

You're invited:
BOOK LAUNCH PARTY: "Green Building for Dummies"

Join architect and author Eric Corey Freed for the launch of his new book, "Green Building for Dummies."

Eric will be signing copies of the book while you drink and mingle with all of the green gliterati.

LOCATION: Temple SF Nightclub, 540 Howard Street (between First and Second), San Francisco
COST: Free
RSVP: dummies.eventbrite.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To unsubscribe from: Green Building for Dummies, just follow this link:

http://www.ecotecture.com/cgi-bin/mojo/mojo.cgi?f=u&l=dummies&e=carlmacki@yahoo.com&p=5724

Click this link, or copy and paste the address into your browser.

Ethanol discussion thread from change.org

from change.org an interesting and exciting new website and idea:

A New Step in the Ethanol Revolution?

via www.esnips.com posted by Danny M. 5 months ago visit site

"Brazilian government-funded researchers said they have perfected a method of producing cellulosic ethanol that drastically reduces the cost of processing. At this point, the assertion is unconfirmed. But should it prove true, the world could well be peeking over the horizon at a massive geopolitical, not to mention economic, shift. Cheap ethanol -- meaning cheap enough to compete favorably with gasoline -- is one of those world-changing technologies that comes only once in a generation."

I was particularly struck by the geopolitical shift this would lead to - the countries that could produce the most ethanol are NOT the countries that currently supply the world's energy needs. Countries like Ukraine, France, India, and especially Brazil and the United States would dominate the new energy industry. Countries like Mexico, Argentina, Canada, and Russia would also do pretty well. Meanwhile, many of the countries currently in OPEC would face an economic catastrophe.

It's also worth noting, "According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if one takes into account all production and transport for gasoline and ethanol, cellulosic corn-based E85 reduces the greenhouse gas output by 15 percent to 20 percent."

GrowninMarin.org

This website provides access to info about Marin County farms, ranches, and businesses that provide organic, farm fresh, fruit, vegetable and animal products. You may discover new Farmers’ Markets, our County's agricultural bounty and where to go to visit the farms you want to patronize.

growninmarin

USGBC LEED Workshops

USGBC Homepage Events Calendar Education Resources

Register Now!
Spaces are still available in these upcoming LEED workshops. Visit the USGBC Web site to register today!

LEED for General Contractors/Construction Managers (8:30am to 12:30pm)
December 14, 2007: Albuquerque, NM

Energy Modeling for LEED for New Construction Projects (8:30am to 12:30pm)
December 5, 2007: Sacramento, CA

LEED for Homes Technical Review (8:30am to 5:00pm)
December 7, 2007: Albuquerque, NM

LEED for Existing Buildings Technical Review (8:30am to 5:00pm)
December 7, 2007: Sacramento, CA

LEED for New Construction Technical Review (8:30am to 5:00pm)
December 19, 2007: Riverside, CA
January 11, 2008: San Francisco, CA
January 17, 2008: Tacoma, WA
January 30, 2008: Novato, CA
February 7, 2008: Tucson, AZ
February 22, 2008: Orange, CA

***
For full workshop descriptions please visit the USGBC Workshop Descriptions page on our website.

To learn more about the U.S. Green Building Council and LEED, please visit our homepage at www.usgbc.org.

We hope to see you at the next workshop in your area!

USGBC Workshop Registration fees:

LEED for New Construction, Existing Buildings, Commercial Interiors, and Schools Technical Reviews (Full-day)
Early Registration Fees:
$345 National Member and $445 Non-Member
Late Registration Fees:
$375 National Member and $495 Non-Member*

LEED for Homes Technical Review (Full-day)
Early Registration Fees:
$225 National Member and $275 Non-Member
Late Registration Fees:
$255 National Member and $325 Non-Member*

All Half-day Workshops
Early Registration Fees:
$175 National Member and $225 Non-Member
Late Registration Fees:
$205 National Member and $275 Non-Member*

*Please note that late registration rates take effect one week prior to workshop date.

Sending several employees to a workshop?
If you have 10-14 employees that are going to attend the same workshop, you may receive a 10% discount while 15 or more attendees may receive a 15% discount on each individual registration fee. Prior to registration please contact workshop@usgbc.org for more information and to receive a discount code to use when registering as the discount is not retroactive.

Re: Which Eco Celebrity Are You, Home Green Home and More....

National

November 14, 2007
Current Issue • Product Reports • Tips • Green Home Makeover • Smart Shopper's Cards
Home Green Home: The Recycled House Is green building only for the rich? In the premier post of our new eco-reno blog, Kathy Shorr sticks to a budget as she revamps her house made from other people's junk. More>> Which Eco Celebrity Are You? We just couldn't resist. With all the celebrities jumping on the hybrid bandwagon, we thought we'd let you see how you stack up. More>> 10 Questions for House Hunters In this buyer's market, know what to ask to find the most energy-efficient, healthy and eco-friendly home. More>> Tip of the Week: Detecting Radon Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., but with proper maintenance and a good detector, there's no need to worry. More>> Products A-Z: Bathroom Surface Cleaners Steamy showers can lead to polluted lungs if you're using a not-so-green cleaner to cut through mildew and soap scum. Breathe easy with these safer scrubs. More>>   Email us at info@thegreenguidecom.

from Grist: Hillary Clinton: Green Energy Plan

As I receive them I will be posting the green positions of various cadidates. They are in no special order. The posting of these messages does not indicate an endorsement. I am doing it for reference purposes and to educate myself and others. I do recommend you check out Grist directly. Carl Macki

Hillary Clinton's climate and energy plan

The full text of Clinton's plan

Posted by David Roberts at 9:36 AM on 05 Nov 2007

Read more about: Hillary Clinton | politics | climate | energy | elections | presidential race 08

Tools: print | email | + digg | + del.icio.us | + reddit | + stumbleupon

Here is Hillary Clinton's comprehensive new climate and energy plan, just introduced:

-----

Powering America's Future: Hillary Clinton's Plan to Address the Energy and Climate Crisis

Hillary understands that we face two immense energy and environmental challenges: a growing climate crisis, and an increasing reliance on foreign oil that is driving up energy costs for Americans. She also knows that Americans have always demonstrated the will and the ingenuity to confront the problems of their times, from the New Deal, to the Cold War, to the Space Race. Today, global warming and dependence on foreign oil are two of the biggest challenges of our time, and as President, Hillary will set three big goals to meet them:

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% from 1990 levels by 2050 -- the level necessary to avoid the worst impacts of global warming.
• Cut foreign oil imports by two-thirds from projected levels by 2030.
• Transform our carbon-based economy into an efficient green economy, creating at least 5 million jobs from clean energy over the next decade.

Hillary Clinton's plan to promote energy independence, address global warming, and transform our economy includes:

• A new cap-and-trade program that auctions 100% of permits alongside investments to move us on the path towards energy independence;
• An aggressive, comprehensive energy efficiency agenda to reduce electricity consumption 20% from projected levels by 2020 by changing the way utilities do business, catalyzing a green building industry, enacting strict appliance efficiency standards, and phasing out incandescent light bulbs;
• A $50 billion Strategic Energy Fund, paid for in part by oil companies, to fund investments in alternative energy. The SEF will finance one-third of the $150 billon ten-year investment in a new energy future contained in this plan;
• Doubling of federal investment in basic energy research, including funding for an ARPA-E, a new research agency modeled on the successful Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
• Aggressive action to transition our economy toward renewable energy sources, with renewables generating 25% of electricity by 2030 and with 60 billion gallons of home-grown biofuels available for cars and trucks by 2030;
• 10 "Smart Grid City" partnerships to prove the advanced capabilities of smart grid and other advanced demand-reduction technologies, as well as new investment in plug-in hybrid vehicle technologies;
• An increase in fuel efficiency standards to 55 miles per gallon by 2030, and $20 billion of "Green Vehicle Bonds" to help U.S. automakers retool their plants to meet the standards;
• A plan to catalyze a thriving green building industry by investing in green collar jobs and helping to modernize and retrofit 20 million low-income homes to make them more energy efficient;
• A new "Connie Mae" program to make it easier for low and middle-income Americans to buy green homes and invest in green home improvements;
• A requirement that all publicly traded companies report financial risks due to climate change in annual reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and
• Creation of a "National Energy Council" within the White House to ensure implementation of the plan across the Executive Branch.

see more

from the SF Chronicle November 14 2007

Links to check out:

http://nextten.org/

"Next 10 is an independent, nonpartisan organization that educates, engages and empowers Californians to improve our state's future.Next 10 is an independent, nonpartisan organization that educates, engages and empowers Californians to improve our state's future."

"The Green Innovation Index is a new report by Next 10 that analyzes key economic and environmental indicators to help us better understand the role green innovation plays in reducing greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming while growing our economy. "

http://aceee.org
Consumer guidelines on less greenhouse emissions and energy use in general.

http://consumerenergycenter.org
Tips on a more efficient home.

Jacque Fresco

Jacque Fresco

a nonagerian radical futurist
presents his vision for a culture shift with The Venus Project, a resource based economy not based on scarcity, i.e., money rationing. For specifics, please visit http://www.thevenusproject.com/

 

GreenerBuildings :: November 9, 2007

The resource center for environmentally responsible building development
News    |    Tools    |    Organizations    |    Books    |    About GreenerBuildings.com
NOVEMBER 9, 2007 Special GreenBuild Conference Issue Greetings from the U.S. Green Building Council's GreenBuild Conference in Chicago. This special issue brings you news and developments announced here amid the 20,500 or so souls gathered at McCormick Place West. As it seems to do every year, GreenBuild unleashes a flurry of new products, initiatives, and partnerships aimed at commercial and residential builders, developers, architects, and their myriad allied companies and organizations. The excitement here is palpable. The green building industry has now reached maturity, with every major buildings-related company now thinking about, if not actively engaged in, green building products, projects, and practices. (The maturity of the industry is also reflected in the widely expressed sentiment that GreenBuild has gotten too big -- every plenary and breakout session turns people away due to lack of space -- and that the model may need to be reconsidered. It's all good, of course, and just minor growing pains in the life of a movement that has become a very big market. -- Joel Makower, Executive Editor P.S.: As always, a full-color, graphic version of this newsletter is available online. THIS ISSUE'S SPONSOR Want to be a GreenerBuildings News sponsor? Click here. GreenBuild Roundup Day Two: Codes, Carpets and Certificates The second day of the 2007 GreenBuild Conference and Expo brought new green building codes from the city of Portland, Ore., new guidelines for certifying sustainable carpet products, and the release of the first of the new LEED for Homes certificates. Aldo Leopold Legacy Center Wins FSC Award The FSC will honored the Baraboo, Wis., project Thursday at the GreenBuild Conference and Expo. Seventy-eight percent of the wood used for the project was FSC-certified, the majority of which was harvested on site. GreenBuild Roundup, Day One: Partnerships, Studies and Awards Former President Bill Clinton kicked off GreenBuild's opening day by announcing projects with the city of Chicago and GE Real Estate. Two studies released at the event show green building is fueled by client demand and is driving up occupancy rates while GLI Systems, Rain Tube won the 2007 Sustainable Product Award. Milliken, EnOcean Among BuildingGreen's Top 10 Products for 2007 For its annual list of the top 10 green building products, unveiled at the GreenBuild conference, BuildingGreen singled out products including formaldehyde-free particleboard, Cradle to Cradle-certified wall coverings, energy efficient dishwashers and ultra-low-flush urinals. GreenBuild Day Zero: New Websites, New Tools, New Building Designs One day prior to today's grand opening of GreenBuild 2007, the U.S. Green Building Council announced a redesigned home website and a million-dollar new education website, while CertainTeed released a reference guide for green products and Whirlpool unveiled a collection of 3D sustainable home designs. What GreenBuild is Bringing to Chicago World-class speakers, a multitude of panels on every topic imaginable, awards ceremonies and product announcements: here's what to expect at next week's Greenbuild 2007, the country's biggest gathering of green buildings professionals in a city that's striving to be the greenest of them all. > MORE HEADLINES Tools & Resources Green Building Studio Carbon Neutral Design Tools Green Building Studio V3.0 is an updated web service that is geared toward the designers of carbon neutral buildings. Its carbon neutral building check can predict the feasibility of a building reaching carbon neutral status using local grid emission data. > MORE TOOLS & RESOURCES	FEATURED BOOK The Philosophy of Sustainable Design by Jason F. McLennan Part Sustainable Design 101 and part manifesto, this book lays the groundwork and philosophical basis of the green architecture movement, helping people to understand and shape the ways that sustainable design will become the future of all design. > BUY IT! | READ MORE FEATURED EVENT Asian International Real Estate Expo and Conference Host: Conference and Expo Promotion, Inc. Date: Dec 6-10, 2007 Location: Manila, Philippines The First Asian International Real Estate Expo & Conference (AIREEC) 2007 will bring to Asia real estate developers, practitioners, trade organizations, speakers, investors, professionals, government sectors and end-users, gathering nearly 10,000 participants and 400 corporations from 54 different countries. SUBMIT YOUR EVENT YOUR AD HERE! Become a GreenerBuildings News sponsor or advertiser, reaching tens of thousands of businesses every week. Click Here to receive more information. Please e-mail content queries to the Editor.
GreenerBuildings.com is produced by Greener World Media, Inc. Copyright 2006. All rights reserved. Disclaimer | About Us | Privacy Policy

Copperfield's Books Event Reminder

Greetings,

Saturday, November 3, 7pm
Books a la Carte Series
LENNY RICE and BRIGID CALLINAN
Fondue
Please welcome authors Lenny Rice, head cheese-monger for Petaluma's Cowgirl Creamery, and Brigid Callinan, pastry chef and teacher, who will demonstrate and provide taste samples of recipes from their new blessedly uncomplicated and authentic book Fondue, which is sure to inspire many a feast of melty cheese, chocolate, and caramel delights.
Copperfield's Books
140 Kentucky Street
PETALUMA
Tele.: 707-762-0563

Hope to see you all there!

Warm regards,

Sandra

Sandra Sheffield
Events Coordinator
Copperfield's Books

County's 'Green' Plan Blasted

Supervisors OK 'green' countywide plan
by Brad Breithaupt
Article Launched: 11/06/2007 05:57:23 PM PST

Marin Independent Journal

"A blueprint for Marin's growth that officials contend charts a long-term plan for the county to do its share in combating global warming won unanimous approval Tuesday from county supervisors.

"Supervisors hailed the countywide plan, in the works for more than seven years, for tackling climate change. It includes a litany of "green" requirements for new development, ranging from policies that restrict all-night outdoor lighting to requiring new large commercial buildings to encourage workers to take transit.

"But the League of Women Voters of Marin County said the plan falls far short of meeting Marin's housing need, pushing housing to surrounding counties and forcing workers into longer pollution-causing commutes.

"Donna Bjorn, the league's president, blasted supervisors for "environmental hypocrisy."

"The plan will guide development in Marin's unincorporated areas.

"While it reduces commercial and residential growth allowed under a 1994 plan, it foresees construction of 1.1 million square feet of commercial development and 1,091 houses over 30 years.

"The issue that dominated debate was development of the St. Vincent's School for Boys and Silveira ranchlands north of San Rafael. more

San Francisco Green Festival

GREEN GOES MAINSTREAM

Green Festival Celebrates 5th Year in San Francisco

(San Francisco, CA) November, 2006 – Green Festival, a joint project of Global Exchange and Co-op America, and widely known “party with a purpose,” kicks off its fifth year in San Francisco on November 10th at the Concourse Exhibition Center.

Due to the extraordinary success of last year’s festival, a third show day has been added to the event and will bring together more than 100 speakers, 400 green national and local businesses and an anticipated audience of 35,000.

Maintaining its position as the largest and most authentic sustainability event in the world, Green Festival continues to stay at the forefront of bringing leading-edge green products, innovations, services and information into people’s lives and communities.

With a stringent screening process designed by Co-op America, Green Festival ensures all exhibitors meet the best practices for green businesses.

As a joint project of the two non-profit organizations, Global Exchange and Co-op America, Green Festival brings individuals, businesses and investors together to work cooperatively in creating positive economic solutions for communities and the environment

This year’s Green Festival will continue to celebrate the positive impact of sustainable living, eco/organic products for personal health and wellness and the importance of critical initiatives such as recycling, global citizenship and renewable energy.

“Since starting Green Fest in 2002 we have seen an incredible shift in green living as well as a seminal shift in the green economy,” says Kevin Danaher, Executive Director, Global Exchange. “As we celebrate our fifth year in San Francisco we have watched our attendance go from 13,000 in the first year to an anticipated 35,000 this year.

"Consumers are hungry to experience all aspects of green living there is to offer. In business there are now two relevant greens: the bottom line green and the environmental green. Companies are learning they can make better profits by protecting nature and saving our resources than by destroying the environment – we’re witnessing a much different different kind of economy.”

Attendees will experience great “how-to” workshops, attend green career sessions, eat delicious organic cuisine, drink organic beer and wine and “vote with their dollars" when shopping at the many exhibitor booths.

Festival attendees of all ages can also enjoy other highlights including live music performed by some of today’s most influential global artists or a festive walk through some of the hugely popular event areas such as The Power Foods Pavilion, Outdoor Tea Garden, Green Living Workshop and The Fair Trade Pavilion.

Featured local exhibitors include Annie’s Homegrown, SustainLane, Blue Sky Shipping, Branch Home, Household Green Mill, Ecolution and TransFairUSA.

With the tremendous crowd enthusiasm for such past speakers as William McDonough, Woody Harrelson, Julia Butterfly Hill, Arianna Huffington and Cindy Sheehan, this year’s speaker line up which will include Alice Walker, Dr. David Suzuki, Amy Goodman, John Robbins, Medea Benjamin and Tom Hayden, is expected to draw the largest crowds to date.

Green Fest is the perfect place to build cultural bridges, save the planet, grow the green economy and begin healthier, greener ways of living.

SAN FRANCISCO HIGHLIGHTS WILL INCLUDE:

• Socially Responsible Investing
• Fair Trade and Eco Shopping (Green Gear)
• Music Stage featuring live local acts
• Green Living Workshops
• Natural Home and Garden Hall
  
• Organic Dining , The Organic Beer and Wine Pavilion & The PowerFoods Pavilion
• Green Building/Energy & Renewal Energy
• Green Careers
• Eco Tourism & Eco Fashion
• Green MBA Programs
• Bike Valets

For more information about Green Festivals, please visit www.greenfestivals.org

About Co-op America
Co-op America is a not-for-profit membership organization founded in 1982. Our mission is to harness economic power—the strength of consumers, investors, businesses, and the marketplace—to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society. www.coopamerica.org

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

Weekly Grist

Forward to a friend | View in browser | Search Grist | Sent to carlmacki@yahoo.com (change / unsubscribe)
ADVERTISEMENT
TOP STORY Seven Days, Seven Ways Easy ways to cut your energy use, one day at a time -- as seen on the Today show Cutting your energy use and helping to curb climate change don't have to be daunting prospects, as Grist prez Chip Giller explained yesterday morning on NBC's Today show. He laid out a simple scheme with one easy, energy-saving step for each day of the week. (And of course we've got lots more tips where those came from.) [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] new in Grist: Easy ways to cut your energy use, one day at a time watch for yourself: See Chip on Today Like to read Grist, but don't like bringing your laptop into the bathroom? Grist is leaping off the screen and onto the page with a handbook for making it through life with your sanity -- and values -- intact. Order your copy now of Grist's first ever book and save 32%: Wake Up and Smell the Planet: The Non-Pompous, Non-Preachy Grist Guide to Greening Your Day. NEWS Dropping (Fatty) Acid Organic food healthier than non-organic, research finds Who woulda thunk: Organic food is healthier than pesticide-ridden food, according to preliminary results of a four-year study funded by the European Union. Researchers found that organic nosh contained more antioxidants (yum!) and fewer fatty acids (ew!) than non-organic. Organic milk was found to have up to 80 percent more antioxidants than conventional cow juice, as well as higher amounts of vitamin E. Organic wheat, tomatoes, cabbage, onions, and lettuce had up to 40 percent more antioxidants than their conventional counterparts, and potatoes, kiwi fruit, and carrots were found to have higher levels of vitamin C. The study -- the largest of its kind to date -- is ongoing, and final results are expected to be published over the next year; the research has yet to be peer-reviewed. Advocates hope the research will sway Britain's Food Standards Agency to change its current advisory that "the balance of current scientific evidence does not support" the contention that organic food is more nutritious than conventional. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] sources: BBC News, The Independent, Daily Mail see also, in Grist: Organic farming creates more jobs, U.K. study finds see also, in Grist: A special series on food and farming This Rocks! U.S. House passes groundbreaking mining bill The U.S. House of Representatives has, in a fit of sanity, voted to make mining companies pay royalties on minerals they dig up on public land. By a vote of 244-166, the House last week approved the Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act, which would reform a 135-year-old law that President Ulysses S. Grant signed to encourage development in the West. Unchanged since 1872, it allows mining companies to buy land for as little as $2.50 an acre. The new legislation would also put new environmental controls on mining and set up a cleanup fund. Mine-state lawmakers got a tad dramatic. "This legislation hurts, perhaps even kills, the domestic mining industry and with it the towns and communities in western Nevada and rural America," said Rep. Dean Heller (R-Nev.). (After all, oil and gas companies have to pay similar royalties, and they're barely scraping by.) The legislation is groundbreaking (ha!), but don't get too excited: The bill faces a tougher battle in the Senate, and the White House has threatened to veto. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] sources: Reuters, Associated Press see also, in Grist: Mining-law reform bill could change rules for mines on public land The Weight of Water U.S. states face water shortages The catastrophic California wildfires got all the press, but it's worth paying attention to an equally intimidating but slower-moving threat: water shortages. From Georgia to Massachusetts, Florida to New York, the Great Lakes to the West, U.S. states are getting thirstier. In fact, the government predicts that at least 36 states will face challenges from inadequate water supplies within five years, thanks to a combination of rising temperatures, drought, population growth, sprawl, waste, and overuse. "Is it a crisis? If we don't do some decent water planning, it could be," says Jack Hoffbuhr of the American Water Works Association. Officials hope that measures such as water recycling, efficiency, and desalination will save the day. In the meanwhile, local officials are tightening their grasp on any available supplies, and debates over how to address the problem are simmering. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] sources: Associated Press, Chicago Tribune, Agence France-Presse, The Boston Globe, The New York Times And It Came to Pass America's Climate Security Act passes first legislative hurdle A climate bill that would require mandatory cuts to U.S. carbon emissions has passed its first legislative hurdle, successfully enduring a hearing of a congressional subcommittee. America's Climate Security Act made it through the Subcommittee on Private Sector and Consumer Solutions to Global Warming and Wildlife Protection (or, as we say around the office, SubPSCSGWWP) on a 4-3 vote. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who tried to spice up the bill with more environmentally friendly provisions at the hearing, ultimately voted against its passage due to, among other things, its relatively weak targets for reducing emissions: reductions of up to 19 percent below 2005 levels by 2020 and 63 percent cuts by 2050. But despite its weaknesses, some green groups talked up the bill's significance in the hopes that as it navigates the legislative process, it'll get tougher on climate change and coddle polluting industries less. The SubPSCSGWWP vote means the bill will soon be debated by the full Environment and Public Works Committee. Committee Chair Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) has said she will press for a vote before the end of the year. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] sources: The Hill, Associated Press, Reuters, MarketWatch see also, in Gristmill: Tracking Lieberman-Warner: What's next? A Tip of the ICAP New partnership hopes to jumpstart global carbon market A whole slew of countries and states have signed on to a new International Carbon Action Partnership, with a goal of sharing knowledge about and standardizing best practices for what they hope will become a global cap-and-trade system. Participants include members of the Western Climate Initiative and Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, as well as various European countries and New Zealand. "By working together we can make our shared vision of a global carbon market a reality," said British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Added California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, "Just because you don't see Washington leading on this issue don't assume that America is shirking its responsibilities." Zing! [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] sources: Associated Press, Reuters, Bloomberg, The New York Times see also, in Gristmill: A new int'l org works toward a global carbon market, leaves U.S. federal gov't out What Is This Feeling We're Feeling? U.S. mayors hit Seattle to plot climate strategy and get a dose of hope More than 100 mayors from across the U.S. gathered in Seattle late last week to share lessons from their efforts to address climate change, producing the world's first climate conference that didn't lead to a spike in Prozac sales. Perhaps it was the uncharacteristic sunshine in the Emerald City, but mayors could barely contain their excitement about the vistas that had opened up when they stopped viewing climate change as, in Bill Clinton's words, "castor oil," and instead starting seeing it as an unprecedented opportunity to make their cities cleaner, greener, and more economically vibrant. While they were there, mayors heard from Al Gore (by satellite), Clinton, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Clinton announced that his Clinton Climate Initiative partnership with big cities to create a buying pool for green and energy-efficient products would be expanded to more cities. Bloomberg came out strong for a carbon tax in a bold national policy speech that (re-)sparked rumors of a presidential bid. Fun and hope were had by all. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] new in Gristmill: Reports from the U.S. Mayors Climate Conference source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer Action Pact Public hits the streets to rally for global-warming action Speaking of this strange "hope" thing, Saturday's Step It Up 2 rallies brought out thousands of Americans across the U.S. who called for action against climate change. Following up on the first Step It Up rallies in April, this latest round of activism spurred some 1,000 gatherings in all 50 states. From gorilla-suited speakers in San Francisco to presidential candidate John Edwards keynoting in New Orleans, citizens came together to urge creation of more "green-collar" jobs, a moratorium on new coal plants, and an 80 percent reduction of U.S. greenhouse-gas emissions by 2050. Meanwhile, 5,500 enthusiastic high-school and college students gathered for an all-weekend Power Shift climate conference in Maryland, and yesterday trekked en masse to Capitol Hill for a day of global-warming lobbying. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] sources: San Francisco Chronicle, USA Daily, Battle Creek Enquirer, The Ithaca Journal, Iowa City Press-Citizen, Diamondback Online straight to the action: Step It Up 2007, Power Shift 2007 Read more news ... GRIST COLUMNS AND FEATURES Local Motion Green career tips for locavores Enviros all over are taking the "think globally, act locally" message to heart, choosing to seek out local food supplies. But they're not stopping there; "locavores" are also hitting the job market, searching for green careers right in their own communities. Eco-job expert Kevin Doyle reports on this trend and offers strategic tips for job-hunting near home. And hey, speaking of job-hunting near home, you can now job hunt from home via the Grist website. We're hosting our own jobs board, giving you direct access to socially and environmentally conscious employers with progressive, green-leaning job opportunities. The good news: You can find a rewarding job that fits your eco-values. The bad news: You've got no more excuses -- so hop to it! [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] new in Grist: Remake a Living new in Grist: Green Jobs Board Howdy Rudy A look at Rudy Giuliani's environmental platform and record Do you know where Rudy Giuliani stands on green issues? Neither do most other smart folks. The former New York City mayor and now front-running Republican presidential candidate doesn't talk much about the environment. He likes to bring up the importance of energy independence, which he ties to national security, but he doesn't connect the dots as to what it might mean for climate change. So we've dug through his speeches, his platform, his record, and his garbage can to bring you the lowdown on Giuliani's environmental stances. Well, OK, not really his garbage can. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] new in Grist: A look at Rudy Giuliani's environmental platform and record in Grist: A special series on the presidential race and the environment Strip Tease On power strips Q. Hi Umbra, Around the table at lunch today, my colleagues and I were discussing ways to conserve and be more energy efficient ... If our TV, stereo, space heater, and cell phone chargers are plugged into a power strip, how much electricity is the power strip drawing (even if it has been flipped off)? Do we have to unplug the power strip too? Lily Lewison Seattle, Wash. A. Dearest Lily, No, no, the power strip is there to save us from the arduous unplugging. In fact, I believe this labor-saving device is completely responsible for ... Read the rest of Umbra's answer. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] new in Grist: On power strips Botched Alaska An unseasonably warm night and a doomed-to-melt dessert What do oil spills, climate change, and meringue have in common? They all converged recently in the kitchen of Roz Cummins, whose attempt to make her patented Baked Alaska met with more than a few hitches. Still, she pulled it off, and offers some tips for the rest of us -- as well as a recipe for a vegan pumpkin cake that puts the perfect seasonal spin on this elegant dessert. [ email | discuss | + digg | + del.icio.us ] new in Grist: An unseasonably warm night and a doomed-to-melt dessert	THE GRIST LIST From Timberlake to Tank. JT donates to an Aussie wildlife fund, and bodily fluids become the fuel of the future. Sign up to get The Grist List each week by email. OPINION & ANALYSIS Here to stay. Why I don't agree with James Kuntsler about peak oil and the "end of suburbia." by Joseph Romm The other black gold. U.S. investors make a killing off of Chinese coal. by Tom Philpott Friedman asks the wrong question. It's not whether we're responsible, but whether we're prepared that counts. by David Roberts The Whole Foods behemoth. Trade consultancy: Whole Foods will "consolidate supply chains." by Tom Philpott Post-Kyoto international climate policy. Two analysts argue for ditching Kyoto and finding something better. by David Roberts Climate equity. From citizens of nation states to citizens of the world. by Saleemul Huq Great Lakes water wars. Race to make the Earth look like the Moon. by Jon Rynn Industry's plan for us. The many ways big money seeks to avoid reducing fossil-fuel use. by Peter Montague Lock box? Should Gore get arrested protesting coal? by David Roberts Bali burning. Amazing helicopter footage of Greenpeace in the Indonesian peat bogs. by Glenn Hurowitz Loony behavior. Mercury pollution is driving loons crazy. by Erik Hoffner Peak oil: More than cars. Progressive pundits don't seem to be fully grappling with the oil problem. by David Roberts Newt? Seriously? On Gingrich's new conservative environmentalism. by David Roberts Growing cooler. Can urban planners save the earth? by Eric de Place Grow locally, manufacture locally. Manufacturing a new economy. by Jon Rynn The Achilles heel of nuclear power. Nuclear plants require lots of water in an increasingly dry world. by Joseph Romm When in drought ... Why can't legislators connect nuclear power and water shortages? by David Roberts Bush names a new USDA chief. The former governor of North Dakota loves biofuel and GMOs. by Tom Philpott Baby got Amtrak. Could intercity public transit finally be getting some support from Congress? by David Roberts McKibben on waste-heat recovery. A very promising climate-change solution with an image problem. by Erik Hoffner China's immoral energy policy: Part I. China's coal policy is breathtaking (literally). by Joseph Romm China's immoral energy policy: Part II. The efficient alternative to coal power in China. by Joseph Romm High crop prices, more chemicals. All hail the biofuel boom. by Tom Philpott 'Mideast Oil Forever?': Part I. Drifting toward disaster. by Joseph Romm 'Mideast Oil Forever?': Part II. The coming oil crisis. by Joseph Romm 'Mideast Oil Forever?': Part III. Abandoning the solution. by Joseph Romm 'Mideast Oil Forever?': Part IV. The renewables revolution. by Joseph Romm 'Mideast Oil Forever?': Part V. Pollution prevention and preparing for the future. by Joseph Romm This week in ocean news ... Iraqi catches shark, blames America. by Andrew Sharpless MORE NEWS The Fire This Time. Researchers quantify U.S. wildfire carbon emissions. Suffer the Little Children. Pediatricians warn climate-change health effects worse for kids. I Pity the Fuel. Oxfam warns Europe's biofuel boom likely to worsen plight of world's poor. MORE GRIST STORIES Season's Bleatings. Umbra advises on corporate holiday cards. Want to listen to the Weekly Grist instead? Check out the Weekly Grist podcast, one more fabulous way to enjoy the week's top environmental news! Listen or subscribe. Subscribe to Grist newsletters. Unsubscribe from this newsletter, or several at once. Update your email address, zip code, and other information. Get help with your subscription questions, learn how to keep Grist out of your spam folder, and more. SUPPORT GRIST Support nonprofit, independent environmental journalism. Donate to Grist.

Grist: Environmental News and Commentary ©2007. Grist Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Gloom and doom with a sense of humor®. Grist, 710 Second Avenue, Suite 860, Seattle, WA 98104 USA Phone 206.876.2020 | Fax 253.423.6487 | grist@grist.org