Day: 12 November 1999

Plutonium that was accidentally sent to UK given “richter” reading

An inquiry into the accidental transportation of plutonium to the UK from Belgium has given the incident a 2 "reading" on the International Nuclear Events range. A reading of 7 indicates the worst possible nuclear event.

Nitrogen Oxides from ships are cooling atmosphere

Research shows the emissions of nitrogen oxides from ocean-going ships can significantly change levels of gases such as ozone and hydroxyl radical, resulting in a cooling effect, especially in the North Atlantic region.

AUSTRALIA: Aluminium smelting industry is a net economic drain

A study has shown that if the aluminium smelting industry were to stand by its threat and depart from Australia, the country's economy would benefit. It would also reduce Australia's greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions by 6.5%.

National Trust members vote to ban peat

A resolution to ban the use of peat at all National Trust properties was carried at the UK heritage organisation's AGM in Belfast.

Comments sought on international energy overview

A large-scale report on global energy options for a sustainable future is in draft stage, with feedback and corrections urgently requested.

Data shows that M4 Bus Lane speeds up travel times

The dedicated bus lane on the M4 motorway between Heathrow and Central London has actually decreased journeys rather than slowing them down. Data from the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) proves that John Prescott's highly-criticised pilot project is working.

AUSTRALIA: Possibly highest greenhouse gas emissions in the world

A study of greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions by the world's industrialised countries has shown that Australia, not the USA, contributes most to global warming per capita.

Sewage gas to power World Wildlife Fund’s UK office

The UK branch of the World Wildlife Fund has decided to practice what it preaches and has signed a deal with the Renewable Energy Company (REC) to power its head office with locally-generated renewable energy.

GM committee publishes rules for next year’s UK trials

The committee in charge of the UK's trials of GM crops has reviewed the 1999 trials and issued recommendations for next year. These include allowing for some sites to be trashed by GM protesters without invalidating the trials as a whole.

UK planning policy all in one place

The UK Government has created a website that gathers together all planning policy guidance. In addition to official policy documents, the site included key statements to Parliament on planning.

UK fuel tax earmarked for public transport but automatic fuel tax increases dropped

The UK Chancellor's commitment to annual and automatic fuel tax increases has come to an end, but he has stated that above-inflation revenue from future fuel tax increases will be ring fenced for spending on public transport and roads modernisation.

UK Climate Change Levy: renewables, CHP granted exemption but revenue will be lower than forecast

The UK Chancellor has published his Pre-Budget Report with details of changes to the proposed Climate Change Levy. Pressure from industry has led to a levy rate reduction and an increased discount for energy-intensive sectors.

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie