News from 23 March 2009 on edie

Spend more on trees and less on roads – advisors to Government

Bodies set up to advise Government on the built and natural environment are calling for a shift in emphasis on public spend, with more cash needed for green spaces and urban tree planting.

Gasification plant to join Thames eco-cluster

A high-tech energy-from-waste plant is the latest facility to join the line up of business planned for a business park designed to showcase sustainable industries on the Thames Estuary.

Government warned zero carbon housing target “unrealistic”

The UK government's target for all new homes to be zero carbon-emitting by 2016 is "unrealistic", property professionals warned this week (March 19).

US could save billions through national energy efficiency law

The US could save almost $170 Billion with a national law requiring utility companies to foster more efficient customer electricity and gas use, energy campaigners say.

Environmentalist uproar at EU climate cash failure

Green campaigners have criticised European leaders after they failed to commit cash to help developing countries cut carbon emissions, at a meeting last week.

Chernobyl animal life in decline, researchers say.

Animal life in the area contaminated by radiation after the Chernobyl nuclear reactor explosion two decades ago is still declining, researchers say.

EU to cut farmers’ red tape

The European Union has said it wishes to reduce the amount of red tape for farmers.

Ireland to phase out inefficient light bulbs

Ireland could soon see a change to its lighting in houses and buildings across the country.

Changes to pollution laws could cost pig farmers

There have been suggestions that proposed new European laws on pollution could have an adverse effect on the farming industry.

Europe’s water consumption ‘unsustainable’

Experts have warned that Europe's current levels of water extraction and consumption cannot be sustained in the long term.

Minister warns developers to avoid hedgerows in summer

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government John Gormley has moved to remind developers of their responsibility towards hedgerows and vegetation on uncultivated land.

Environmentalists disappointed by World Water Forum

NGOs have lashed out at what they see as a lack of progress at the World Water Forum in Instanbul last week, saying not enough countries are signing up to an international treaty that could secure water supplies in many parts of the world.

Day: 23 March 2009