News from 26 March 1999 on edie

AUSTRALIA: Cleaner energy from coal

Clean, cheap, greenhouse friendly energy obtained by burning coal while it's still underground could be a major power source for Australia in the new millennium, says the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).

Swedish institute proposes brominated flame retardants ban

Concentrations of brominated flame retardants in mother's milk have doubled since 1992 and with a voluntary phase-out failing to get results, it is time to ban PBDE and PBB, says the Swedish Chemicals Inspectorate.

Lobbyists call for green commitment in next EC President

Seven European environmental umbrella organisations have called upon the EU heads of government today to ensure that the next EC President they name will make a solid commitment to establishing environmental objectives and policies at the heart of the EU.

Aquatic chemists share Stockholm Water Prize

The 1999 Stockholm Water Prize, worth $150,000, is to be shared for the first time with Professors Werner Stumm and James Morgan the joint recipients.

French water giant doubles size with US acquisition

In a massive deal for the water industry, French communications and utilities giant Vivendi has snapped up US Filter (USF) for a cool $6.2Bn.

News in brief

UK news briefs

Lobby groups call for Lindane ban following leaked report

The UK government is being urged to ban the sale of the pesticide lindane, following the leaking of an EU report recommending that the chemical be suspended from sale.

New programme aims to stabilise unsafe mining land

A new initiative to tackle unsafe mines, the Land Stabilisation Programme, was launched this week by Regions and Regeneration Minister, Richard Caborn.

Ofwat proposes higher standards and compensation for water companies

The UK water regulator Ofwat has published proposals intended to improve minimum standards of service for water customers and increase the compensation payable if these standards are not met.

DETR consults on pesticides tax/charge scheme

DETR has published the results of a research project on the design and impact of a possible tax on pesticides, and is asking for views on issues raised in the report.

Brown’s green budget

IEM looks at industry's reaction to the green budget

Hall of Shame flushes out water polluters

The Environment Agency's first Hall of Shame has flushed water companies guilty of polluting the environment out into the open.

Day: 26 March 1999