rom the ships will more than double, to 2.1 million tons a year. It is being estimated that the new standards, proposed in July and set to be finalized by Dec. 17, would prevent up to 33,000 premature deaths a year from problems such as heart disease, respiratory illness and cancer.
The agency wants to require vessels to switch by 2015 from viscous bunker fuel, which contains about 30,000 parts per million sulfur, to fuel that contains no more than 1,000 parts per million. Trucks are required to use fuel with no more than 15 ppm sulfur, and by 2015 locomotives, bulldozers and barges will have similar limits.
Great Lakes shipping industry officials say the cost of the new fuel and the engine overhauls needed to burn it would undermine their competitive edge and shift commodity transport to rail and truck. The Lake Carriers' Association believes the rule would cost U.S. and Canadian ships an extra $210 million a year for fuel. Out of a U.S. fleet of 65, they predict that 13 steamships with 429 mariners would be scrapped and that 13 ships with old diesel engines might face premature retirement.
Currently, some in Congress are considering the prospect of attaching language to the annual Interior and Environmental Appropriations Bill that could halt implementation of the rule and have delayed moving the bill as they seek to influence EPA. (Wash Post, 10/23/09)
More information: EPA Oceangoing Vessels
Four Reasons To Join The "Go Green" Movement
Everyday you hear something on the television or radio promoting the green movement. You decide that there's no reason not to join on the bandwagon and give the "go green" movement a try. After all, it's a popular idea that's gaining more and more ground with environmentalists and common folk.
There are many benefits to be had when you "go green". For instance, you improve your life as well as those around you. You also improve the planet by using fewer resources the Earth has to offer by using other resources that doesn't require taking something out of the Earth.
Remember that whatever comes from the Earth will have an impact on everyone. You can make an impact by making sure you don't cause further damage to it and keeping it at its natural beauty.
What "go green" tactics can you do? You can start by saving energy in your home or at work, plant or purchase organic products and use alternative fuel sources to heat and cool down your home. There is much you can do in the way of going green safely; all you have to do is start the process.
Why is there the overwhelming desire to go green? Here are four reasons to join the "Go Green" movement.
Reason 1 - Way To Safer, Healthier Living
Any non-organic household products will need to be removed from the home. Obviously these ingredients are dangerous to your health as well as to the environment. Consider using organic or natural ingredients to clean your home and clothes in lieu of these harsh, popular chemicals.
Reason 2 - Clean Environment For The Air and Water
When you don't use harsh chemicals to clean your home, wash your car or fix your makeup/hair, you get cleaner air and water. You also won't be dumping chemicals into the water system, which can have a long-term effect on the system. When you avoid using aerosol or other toxins, you keep the air healthy to breathe.
Reason 3 - Saving Money When You Go Green
Believe it or not, you can save plenty of money when you go with the "Go Green" movement. For instance, avoid leaving on lights when you leave a room. By doing this, you can lower the cost of your energy bill.
What else can you do to save energy? One way is to avoid leaving on computers and televisions for an extended period of time.
Another way you can help the movement is to recycle. If you have items you no longer want but are still in very good condition, consider giving it away or use it in a different way instead of sending it to the landfill.
Reason 4 - Eco-friendly Trendy Lifestyle
When you decide to go "green", you may change your décor to match the new lifestyle. Purchase items that employ greener tactics such as solar 