Day: 16 March 2001

Flood plain drainage blamed for severity of Eastern Europe floods

Conservationists believe that the draining of ancient flood plains and deforestation have aggravated current flooding across Eastern Europe.

Insurance industry could drive climate change initiatives

The insurance industry needs to develop in response to climate change, in order to assist the global society in controlling greenhouse gas emissions, and to take advantage of new opportunities, says a new report by a major UK insurance body.

Indian factory suspends operations amid allegations of mercury poisoning in tourist resort

Greenpeace has accused Unilever of negligence over mercury poisoning in a South Indian tourist resort, whilst the factory in question has suspended production.

Innovative councils already far exceed Government 2010 recycling target

A number of councils with imaginative recycling strategies are already far exceeding the Government’s target of 30% recycling by 2010, according to a new report by a UK recycling campaign group.

Environmental Impacts of PVC not excessive compared to alternatives

Although polyvinyl chloride (PVC) does affect the environment, the effects are not excessive when compared to those of commonly used alternatives, according to a new report commissioned by the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR).

New recycling website should help to cure companies’ ignorance

Over 90% of companies asked were unable to give information on recycling of packaging, according to a survey by the organisers of the UK’s first ever user-friendly recycling online database, which will assist companies in fulfilling their recycling obligations.

Governments seek strategies to battling invasive alien species, estimated to be the second main cause of extinction of native life.

Officials from 180 nations have met to examine how best to detect, eradicate, and control the species which threaten the native plants and animals and the ecosystems of many nations.

Two million English homes and buildings at risk of flooding

A National Audit Office report shows that up to two million homes and buildings in England are in areas at risk of flooding and suggests that changes may have to be made to the system of river categorisation.

Planning process must take into account sewer flood risk

The planning process needs to involve the sewerage industry, in order to prevent future sewage spills, says the national water watchdog.

Agriculture must make more progress towards environmental sustainability

The environmental impacts of agriculture are still of major public concern, although in a number of countries detrimental effects have been reduced, according to a new report published by a major international governmental organisation.

Government and lottery give over £105 million to renewable energy

The Government has announced a further £55.5 million for renewable energy, with £50 million more being donated by the National Lottery, on top of the Prime Minister’s announcement of £100 million for renewables last week.

Natural rainforest the size of England and Wales combined may be disappearing annually.

A new study disputes a recent UN assessment which claimed that there has been a 20% drop in the rate of deforestation since 1995.

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