Changing Arctic Affecting Air, Ocean, and Everything in Between
"Despite the fact that summer 2009 had more sea ice than in 2007 or 2008, scientists are seeing drastic changes in the region from just five years ago and at rates faster than anticipated. The findings were presented today in the annual update of the Arctic Report Card, a collaborative effort of 71 national and international scientists.
“The Arctic is a special and fragile place on this planet,” said Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., under secretary for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. “Climate change is happening faster in the Arctic than any other place on Earth — and with wide-ranging consequences. When I visited the northern corners of Alaska’s Arctic region earlier this year, I saw an area abundant with natural resources, diverse wildlife, proud local and native peoples — and a most uncertain future. This year’s Arctic Report Card underscores the urgency of reducing greenhouse gas pollution and adapting to climate changes already under way.”"
Arctic Report Card found here.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Country Analysis Brief: Azerbaijan
"With oil production in decline in most countries outside OPEC, Azerbaijan is seen as one of the few non-OPEC countries capable of increasing its output significantly over the next few years. However, conflicting claims over the maritime and seabed boundaries of the Caspian Sea have yet to be agreed among the 5 littoral states (Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan). An agreement on the division of the Caspian's rich oil and natural gas resources would open up new areas of exploration."
"With oil production in decline in most countries outside OPEC, Azerbaijan is seen as one of the few non-OPEC countries capable of increasing its output significantly over the next few years. However, conflicting claims over the maritime and seabed boundaries of the Caspian Sea have yet to be agreed among the 5 littoral states (Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan). An agreement on the division of the Caspian's rich oil and natural gas resources would open up new areas of exploration."
Education Employees Comprise Majority of State and Local Government Workforce
"At 8.9 million, education workers accounted for more than half of the 16.7 million state and local government full-time equivalent employees nationwide in 2008, according to new data released by the U.S. Census Bureau.
State and local governments had a 1.4 percent increase in employment from 2007. Local governments — which include counties, cities, townships, special districts and school districts — accounted for 12.3 million full-time equivalent employees in 2008, compared with 4.4 million full-time equivalents that were employed by state governments..."
"At 8.9 million, education workers accounted for more than half of the 16.7 million state and local government full-time equivalent employees nationwide in 2008, according to new data released by the U.S. Census Bureau.
State and local governments had a 1.4 percent increase in employment from 2007. Local governments — which include counties, cities, townships, special districts and school districts — accounted for 12.3 million full-time equivalent employees in 2008, compared with 4.4 million full-time equivalents that were employed by state governments..."
U.S. Crude Oil, Natural Gas, and Natural Gas Liquids Proved Reserves, 2008
"The Energy Information Administration's (EIA) estimates of proved reserves of natural gas and crude oil as of the end of 2008 tell very different stories about apparent changes in the availability of these two energy resources in the United States. Proved reserves are those volumes of oil and natural gas that geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions. Proved reserves of natural gas rose enough not only to replace production, but also to grow by almost 3 percent over 2007, largely due to continued development of unconventional gas from shales (see Table 1). In contrast, even though discoveries of crude oil rose for the third year in a row, proved reserves of crude oil fell by more than 10 percent. Under Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules for determining reserves that have been in effect since 1982, operators assessed their 2008 reserves based on what they could produce with reasonable certainty at the market price on the last day of the year. Under updated SEC rules issued in 2008 that take effect in 2010, operators will instead use an average of first-day-of-the-month prices throughout the year, which is less sensitive to volatility in prices, in developing their reserves estimates. The SEC's new rules would have shown an increase in oil prices in 2008 compared to 2007, rather than the significant decline in the year-end 2008 price relative to the year-end 2007 price. Under the new rules, there would likely have been a smaller drop (or possibly even an increase) in crude oil proved reserves."
"The Energy Information Administration's (EIA) estimates of proved reserves of natural gas and crude oil as of the end of 2008 tell very different stories about apparent changes in the availability of these two energy resources in the United States. Proved reserves are those volumes of oil and natural gas that geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions. Proved reserves of natural gas rose enough not only to replace production, but also to grow by almost 3 percent over 2007, largely due to continued development of unconventional gas from shales (see Table 1). In contrast, even though discoveries of crude oil rose for the third year in a row, proved reserves of crude oil fell by more than 10 percent. Under Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules for determining reserves that have been in effect since 1982, operators assessed their 2008 reserves based on what they could produce with reasonable certainty at the market price on the last day of the year. Under updated SEC rules issued in 2008 that take effect in 2010, operators will instead use an average of first-day-of-the-month prices throughout the year, which is less sensitive to volatility in prices, in developing their reserves estimates. The SEC's new rules would have shown an increase in oil prices in 2008 compared to 2007, rather than the significant decline in the year-end 2008 price relative to the year-end 2007 price. Under the new rules, there would likely have been a smaller drop (or possibly even an increase) in crude oil proved reserves."
State Indicator Report on Fruits and Vegetables, 2009
"The State Indicator Report on Fruits and Vegetables, 2009 provides for the first time information on fruit and vegetable (F&V) consumption and policy and environmental support within each state.† Fruits and vegetables, as part of a healthy diet, are important for optimal child growth, weight management, and chronic disease prevention.1,2 Supporting increased F&V access, availability, and reduced price are key strategies towards the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) goal of improved F&V consumption and thus improved nutrition among all Americans..."
"The State Indicator Report on Fruits and Vegetables, 2009 provides for the first time information on fruit and vegetable (F&V) consumption and policy and environmental support within each state.† Fruits and vegetables, as part of a healthy diet, are important for optimal child growth, weight management, and chronic disease prevention.1,2 Supporting increased F&V access, availability, and reduced price are key strategies towards the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) goal of improved F&V consumption and thus improved nutrition among all Americans..."
FDIC Adopts Guidance on Prudent Commercial Real Estate Loan Workouts
"The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), in coordination with the other member Agencies of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), adopted a policy statement today supporting prudent commercial real estate (CRE) loan workouts. This policy statement stresses that performing loans, including those that have been renewed or restructured on reasonable modified terms, made to creditworthy borrowers will not be subject to adverse classification solely because the value of the underlying collateral declined.
This policy statement provides guidance to examiners, and financial institutions that are working with CRE borrowers who are experiencing diminished operating cash flows, depreciated collateral values, or prolonged delays in selling or renting commercial properties. It also recognizes that during these difficult economic circumstances, continued credit availability to businesses, especially small businesses, is challenging, even where borrower performance has been acceptable. This policy statement reflects the appropriate balance of prudent credit practices and meeting legitimate credit needs..."
"The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), in coordination with the other member Agencies of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), adopted a policy statement today supporting prudent commercial real estate (CRE) loan workouts. This policy statement stresses that performing loans, including those that have been renewed or restructured on reasonable modified terms, made to creditworthy borrowers will not be subject to adverse classification solely because the value of the underlying collateral declined.
This policy statement provides guidance to examiners, and financial institutions that are working with CRE borrowers who are experiencing diminished operating cash flows, depreciated collateral values, or prolonged delays in selling or renting commercial properties. It also recognizes that during these difficult economic circumstances, continued credit availability to businesses, especially small businesses, is challenging, even where borrower performance has been acceptable. This policy statement reflects the appropriate balance of prudent credit practices and meeting legitimate credit needs..."
Friday, October 30, 2009
Lower Premiums, Stronger Businesses: How Health Insurance Reform Will Bring Down Costs for Small Businesses
"Across the country, America’s businesses are struggling as the cost of health care continues to skyrocket. Premiums for employer-based health insurance have more than doubled since 2000, a growth rate three times that of wages.1 By 2025, one in every four dollars in our nation’s economy will be spent on health care2 – money that could have been invested in our nation’s businesses. Rising health care costs cut into employee wages and impede hiring and business growth.
Small businesses, the backbone of job creation in our economy, are disproportionately burdened by the financial strains caused by rising health care costs.3 On average, small businesses pay up to 18 percent more than large firms for the same health insurance policy. 4 This difference is due in part to high broker fees (which can be up to 10 percent of premiums),5 and health plan administrative costs that are three to four times those in the large group market.6 These higher costs discourage small businesses from covering their employees. In a recent national survey, nearly three-quarters of small businesses that did not offer benefits cited high premiums as the reason..."
"Across the country, America’s businesses are struggling as the cost of health care continues to skyrocket. Premiums for employer-based health insurance have more than doubled since 2000, a growth rate three times that of wages.1 By 2025, one in every four dollars in our nation’s economy will be spent on health care2 – money that could have been invested in our nation’s businesses. Rising health care costs cut into employee wages and impede hiring and business growth.
Small businesses, the backbone of job creation in our economy, are disproportionately burdened by the financial strains caused by rising health care costs.3 On average, small businesses pay up to 18 percent more than large firms for the same health insurance policy. 4 This difference is due in part to high broker fees (which can be up to 10 percent of premiums),5 and health plan administrative costs that are three to four times those in the large group market.6 These higher costs discourage small businesses from covering their employees. In a recent national survey, nearly three-quarters of small businesses that did not offer benefits cited high premiums as the reason..."
Estimates of the Prevalence of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009, United States, April–July 2009
"Through July 2009, a total of 43,677 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza A pandemic (H1N1) 2009 were reported in the United States, which is likely a substantial underestimate of the true number. Correcting for under-ascertainment using a multiplier model, we estimate that 1.8 million–5.7 million cases occurred, including 9,000–21,000 hospitalizations...
"Through July 2009, a total of 43,677 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza A pandemic (H1N1) 2009 were reported in the United States, which is likely a substantial underestimate of the true number. Correcting for under-ascertainment using a multiplier model, we estimate that 1.8 million–5.7 million cases occurred, including 9,000–21,000 hospitalizations...
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
October 24, 2009- President Obama Signs Emergency Declaration for H1N1 Flu
"Authority
Section 1135 of the Social Security Act [42 USC §1320b–5] permits the Secretary of Health and Human Services to waive certain regulatory requirements for healthcare facilities in response to emergencies. Two conditions must be met for the Secretary to be able to issue such “1135 waivers”: first, the Secretary must have declared a Public Health Emergency; second, the President must have declared a National Emergency either through a Stafford Act Declaration or National Emergencies act Declaration. If these conditions are met, then healthcare facilities may petition for 1135 waivers in response to particular needs, and only within the geographic and temporal limits of the emergency declarations...'
Read the official Declaration
"Authority
Section 1135 of the Social Security Act [42 USC §1320b–5] permits the Secretary of Health and Human Services to waive certain regulatory requirements for healthcare facilities in response to emergencies. Two conditions must be met for the Secretary to be able to issue such “1135 waivers”: first, the Secretary must have declared a Public Health Emergency; second, the President must have declared a National Emergency either through a Stafford Act Declaration or National Emergencies act Declaration. If these conditions are met, then healthcare facilities may petition for 1135 waivers in response to particular needs, and only within the geographic and temporal limits of the emergency declarations...'
Read the official Declaration
Monday, October 26, 2009
Crime Against People with Disabilities, 2007
"Presents the first findings about nonfatal violent and property crime experienced by persons with disabilities, based on the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The report includes data on nonfatal violent victimization (rape/sexual assault, robbery, aggravated and simple assault) and property crime (burglary, motor vehicle theft, theft) against persons with disabilities in 2007. It compares the victimization experience of persons with and without disabilities, using population estimates based on the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS). Data are presented on victim and crime characteristics of persons with and without disabilities, including age, race and gender distribution; offender weapon use; victim injuries; and reporting to the police.
Highlights include the following:
Persons with disabilities were victims of about 47,000 rapes, 79,000 robberies, 114,000 aggravated assaults, and 476,000 simple assaults.
Age-adjusted rate of nonfatal violent crime against persons with disabilities was 1.5 times higher than the rate for persons without disabilities.
Females with a disability had a higher victimization rate than males with a disability; males had a higher rate than females among those without a disability."
"Presents the first findings about nonfatal violent and property crime experienced by persons with disabilities, based on the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The report includes data on nonfatal violent victimization (rape/sexual assault, robbery, aggravated and simple assault) and property crime (burglary, motor vehicle theft, theft) against persons with disabilities in 2007. It compares the victimization experience of persons with and without disabilities, using population estimates based on the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS). Data are presented on victim and crime characteristics of persons with and without disabilities, including age, race and gender distribution; offender weapon use; victim injuries; and reporting to the police.
Highlights include the following:
Persons with disabilities were victims of about 47,000 rapes, 79,000 robberies, 114,000 aggravated assaults, and 476,000 simple assaults.
Age-adjusted rate of nonfatal violent crime against persons with disabilities was 1.5 times higher than the rate for persons without disabilities.
Females with a disability had a higher victimization rate than males with a disability; males had a higher rate than females among those without a disability."
The Department of Defense’s Use of Private Security Contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan:
Background, Analysis, and Options for Congress
"The United States is relying on contractors to provide a wide variety of services in Iraq and
Afghanistan, including security. Private firms known as Private Security Contractors (PSCs) are
hired to protect individuals, transport convoys, forward operating bases, buildings, and other
economic infrastructure, as well as train security forces. While DOD has previously contracted
for security in Bosnia and elsewhere, it appears that in Iraq and Afghanistan DOD is for the first
time relying so heavily on armed contractors to provide security during combat or stability
operations. As of June 2009, there were over 18,000 armed private security contractors in Iraq
and Afghanistan. Recent contracting trends indicate that the number of such contractors may
continue to increase..."
Background, Analysis, and Options for Congress
"The United States is relying on contractors to provide a wide variety of services in Iraq and
Afghanistan, including security. Private firms known as Private Security Contractors (PSCs) are
hired to protect individuals, transport convoys, forward operating bases, buildings, and other
economic infrastructure, as well as train security forces. While DOD has previously contracted
for security in Bosnia and elsewhere, it appears that in Iraq and Afghanistan DOD is for the first
time relying so heavily on armed contractors to provide security during combat or stability
operations. As of June 2009, there were over 18,000 armed private security contractors in Iraq
and Afghanistan. Recent contracting trends indicate that the number of such contractors may
continue to increase..."
Afghanistan: Politics, Elections, and Government Performance
"The Afghan government’s limited writ and widespread official corruption are helping sustain a
Taliban insurgency, and have fed pessimism about the Afghanistan stabilization effort. President
Hamid Karzai has previously been able to confine ethnic disputes to political competition by
engaging in compromises with major faction leaders, combined with occasional moves to weaken
them. This strategy has enabled Karzai to focus on trying, with limited success to date, to win
over disillusioned members of his ethnic Pashtun community, some of whom are tolerating or
even supporting Taliban insurgents. Despite the measurable loss of confidence in Karzai, many
Afghans consider their country’s difficulties as beyond his control, and he was still went into the August 20, 2009, as the favorite. Turnout was lower than expected, particularly in Karzai’s homeprovinces in the south, and the final but uncertified results, released September 16, 2009, show him at 54.6%. However, there have been widespread charges of fraud not only from his Tajik
main opponent, Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, but also from a U.N.-backed Electoral Complaints
Commission that is investigating the charges. It is likely to take until October 7, 2009 until
a result is certified, and a major question is whether Karzai would still have a high enough (50%+)total to avoid a second-round runoff. Whether or not he has enough votes, observers in
Afghanistan say the two main contenders might try to avoid ethnic or political violence through
a negotiated settlement..."
"The Afghan government’s limited writ and widespread official corruption are helping sustain a
Taliban insurgency, and have fed pessimism about the Afghanistan stabilization effort. President
Hamid Karzai has previously been able to confine ethnic disputes to political competition by
engaging in compromises with major faction leaders, combined with occasional moves to weaken
them. This strategy has enabled Karzai to focus on trying, with limited success to date, to win
over disillusioned members of his ethnic Pashtun community, some of whom are tolerating or
even supporting Taliban insurgents. Despite the measurable loss of confidence in Karzai, many
Afghans consider their country’s difficulties as beyond his control, and he was still went into the August 20, 2009, as the favorite. Turnout was lower than expected, particularly in Karzai’s homeprovinces in the south, and the final but uncertified results, released September 16, 2009, show him at 54.6%. However, there have been widespread charges of fraud not only from his Tajik
main opponent, Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, but also from a U.N.-backed Electoral Complaints
Commission that is investigating the charges. It is likely to take until October 7, 2009 until
a result is certified, and a major question is whether Karzai would still have a high enough (50%+)total to avoid a second-round runoff. Whether or not he has enough votes, observers in
Afghanistan say the two main contenders might try to avoid ethnic or political violence through
a negotiated settlement..."
Income and Poverty Among Older Americans in 2008
"Older Americans are an economically diverse group. In 2008, the median income of individuals aged 65 and older was $18,208 but incomes varied widely around this average. One-fourth of Americans 65 and older had incomes of less than $11,139 in 2008, while another one-fourth had incomes of $33,677 or more. Older Americans receive income from a variety of sources, including earnings, pensions, personal savings, and public programs such as Social Security and Supplemental Security Income. This report provides information from the March 2009 Current Population Survey on the number of elderly individuals and households who received income from each of these sources in 2008 and the amount of income received by individuals and households. Income from each source is reported as the annual amount received in 2008..."
"Older Americans are an economically diverse group. In 2008, the median income of individuals aged 65 and older was $18,208 but incomes varied widely around this average. One-fourth of Americans 65 and older had incomes of less than $11,139 in 2008, while another one-fourth had incomes of $33,677 or more. Older Americans receive income from a variety of sources, including earnings, pensions, personal savings, and public programs such as Social Security and Supplemental Security Income. This report provides information from the March 2009 Current Population Survey on the number of elderly individuals and households who received income from each of these sources in 2008 and the amount of income received by individuals and households. Income from each source is reported as the annual amount received in 2008..."
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Model 2010 Fuel Economy Guide
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) produce the Fuel Economy Guide to help car buyers choose the most fuel efficient vehicle that meets their needs. The Guide is published in print and on the Web at www.fueleconomy.gov. For additional print copies, please call the EERE Information Center at 1-877-337-3463 or mail your request to EERE Information Center, 20440 Century Boulevard, Suite 150, Germantown, MD 20874.
Fuel Economy Estimates Each vehicle in this Guide has two fuel economy estimates:
► A city estimate that represents urban driving, in which a vehicle is started in the morning (after being parked all night) and driven in stop-and-go traffic
► A highway estimate that represents a mixture of rural and interstate highway driving in a warmed-up vehicle, typical of longer trips in free-flowing traffic..."
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) produce the Fuel Economy Guide to help car buyers choose the most fuel efficient vehicle that meets their needs. The Guide is published in print and on the Web at www.fueleconomy.gov. For additional print copies, please call the EERE Information Center at 1-877-337-3463 or mail your request to EERE Information Center, 20440 Century Boulevard, Suite 150, Germantown, MD 20874.
Fuel Economy Estimates Each vehicle in this Guide has two fuel economy estimates:
► A city estimate that represents urban driving, in which a vehicle is started in the morning (after being parked all night) and driven in stop-and-go traffic
► A highway estimate that represents a mixture of rural and interstate highway driving in a warmed-up vehicle, typical of longer trips in free-flowing traffic..."
Flu Myths and Realities
"Vaccines that contain thimerosal are unsafe for children and pregnant women.”
It is safe for children and pregnant women to receive a flu vaccine that contains thimerosal.
Thimerosal is a very effective preservative that has been used since the 1930s to prevent contamination in some multi-dose vials of vaccines. There is no convincing evidence of harm caused by the low doses of thimerosal in vaccines, except for minor reactions like redness and swelling at the injection site.
The 2009-H1N1 influenza vaccines that FDA has licensed will be manufactured in several formulations, including pre-filled, single-dose syringes and nasal sprayers along with multi-dose vials. Only multi-dose vials of seasonal influenza vaccine will contain thimerosal to prevent potential contamination after the vial is opened. Single-dose units, however, will not require the use of thimerosal as a preservative. You may request this form of the vaccine if it is available. In addition, the nasal spray version of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine is produced in single-units and will not contain thimerosal..."
"Vaccines that contain thimerosal are unsafe for children and pregnant women.”
It is safe for children and pregnant women to receive a flu vaccine that contains thimerosal.
Thimerosal is a very effective preservative that has been used since the 1930s to prevent contamination in some multi-dose vials of vaccines. There is no convincing evidence of harm caused by the low doses of thimerosal in vaccines, except for minor reactions like redness and swelling at the injection site.
The 2009-H1N1 influenza vaccines that FDA has licensed will be manufactured in several formulations, including pre-filled, single-dose syringes and nasal sprayers along with multi-dose vials. Only multi-dose vials of seasonal influenza vaccine will contain thimerosal to prevent potential contamination after the vial is opened. Single-dose units, however, will not require the use of thimerosal as a preservative. You may request this form of the vaccine if it is available. In addition, the nasal spray version of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine is produced in single-units and will not contain thimerosal..."
Thursday, October 22, 2009
The Clock is Ticking:A Progress Report on America’s Preparedness to Prevent Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism
"The United States is failing to address its most urgent threat—biological proliferation and terrorism—concluded a report issued today by the bipartisan Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism. The Commission also felt the Obama Administration has given appropriate high-level attention to the nuclear threat but noted the challenges loom large.
The Commission cited a range of missteps on biosecurity that lead to its conclusion: No senior-level advocate for biosecurity in the Administration, attempted funding “raids” on two critical biopreparedness programs, and lack of appropriate disease surveillance..."
"The United States is failing to address its most urgent threat—biological proliferation and terrorism—concluded a report issued today by the bipartisan Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism. The Commission also felt the Obama Administration has given appropriate high-level attention to the nuclear threat but noted the challenges loom large.
The Commission cited a range of missteps on biosecurity that lead to its conclusion: No senior-level advocate for biosecurity in the Administration, attempted funding “raids” on two critical biopreparedness programs, and lack of appropriate disease surveillance..."
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Recovery Through Retrofit
"Making American homes and buildings more energy efficient presents an unprecedented opportunity for communities throughout the country. The Recovery Through Retrofit Report builds on investments made in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) to expand the home energy efficiency and retrofit market. Home retrofits can potentially help people earn money, as home retrofit workers, while also helping them save money, by lowering their utility bills. By encouraging nationwide weatherization of homes, workers of all skill levels will be trained, engaged, and will participate in ramping up a national home retrofit market.
There are almost 130 million homes in this country. Combined, they generate more than 20 percent of our nation's carbon dioxide emissions, making them a significant contributor to global climate change. Existing techniques and technologies in energy efficiency retrofitting can reduce home energy use by up to 40 percent per home and lower associated greenhouse gas emissions by up to 160 million metric tons annually by the year 2020. Furthermore, home energy efficiency retrofits have the potential to reduce home energy bills by $21 billion annually, paying for themselves over time.
By implementing Recovery Through Retrofit’s recommendations, the Federal Government will lay the groundwork for a self-sustaining home energy efficiency retrofit industry. This Report provides a roadmap of how the Federal Government can use existing authorities and funds to unlock private capital and mobilize our communities..."
"Making American homes and buildings more energy efficient presents an unprecedented opportunity for communities throughout the country. The Recovery Through Retrofit Report builds on investments made in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) to expand the home energy efficiency and retrofit market. Home retrofits can potentially help people earn money, as home retrofit workers, while also helping them save money, by lowering their utility bills. By encouraging nationwide weatherization of homes, workers of all skill levels will be trained, engaged, and will participate in ramping up a national home retrofit market.
There are almost 130 million homes in this country. Combined, they generate more than 20 percent of our nation's carbon dioxide emissions, making them a significant contributor to global climate change. Existing techniques and technologies in energy efficiency retrofitting can reduce home energy use by up to 40 percent per home and lower associated greenhouse gas emissions by up to 160 million metric tons annually by the year 2020. Furthermore, home energy efficiency retrofits have the potential to reduce home energy bills by $21 billion annually, paying for themselves over time.
By implementing Recovery Through Retrofit’s recommendations, the Federal Government will lay the groundwork for a self-sustaining home energy efficiency retrofit industry. This Report provides a roadmap of how the Federal Government can use existing authorities and funds to unlock private capital and mobilize our communities..."
Wipe Out Lead Poisoning
"October 18 -24 is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week"
" National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 18-24, is set aside to educate parents and children about the dangers of lead exposure, especially lead-based paint hazards in housing.
Lead poisoning is the number one environmental hazard threatening children in the United States -- affecting more than 300,000 children who are less than six years old. Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born, and children who appear healthy can also have high levels of lead in their bodies. The behaviors and rapid growth of children less than six years old make them more likely to be harmed by lead.
The household use of lead-based paint was banned after 1978. Millions of homes in EPA’s Region Pacific Southwest region, which includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories, still contain hazardous amounts of lead in layers of old paint. Such paint can poison children when removed or disturbed by renovations. Children are exposed to lead by eating paint chips or by ingesting lead-contaminated house dust or soil through hand-to-mouth contact..."
"October 18 -24 is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week"
" National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 18-24, is set aside to educate parents and children about the dangers of lead exposure, especially lead-based paint hazards in housing.
Lead poisoning is the number one environmental hazard threatening children in the United States -- affecting more than 300,000 children who are less than six years old. Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born, and children who appear healthy can also have high levels of lead in their bodies. The behaviors and rapid growth of children less than six years old make them more likely to be harmed by lead.
The household use of lead-based paint was banned after 1978. Millions of homes in EPA’s Region Pacific Southwest region, which includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories, still contain hazardous amounts of lead in layers of old paint. Such paint can poison children when removed or disturbed by renovations. Children are exposed to lead by eating paint chips or by ingesting lead-contaminated house dust or soil through hand-to-mouth contact..."
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Preparing for the Flu: A Communications Toolkit for Federal Workers
"The purpose of Preparing for the Flu: A Communication Toolkit for the Federal Workforce is to provide information and communication resources to help federal agencies and employees implement recommendations from CDC in planning and responding to the 2009–2010 Influenza Season.
The toolkit includes:
Questions and answers about how federal agencies can respond to the 2009–2010
influenza season
Quick reference for federal agencies on 2009–2010 influenza season planning
and response
One fact sheet for federal agencies
Action Steps to Keep Your Federal Workforce Healthy
Two fact sheets for employees
Ten Ways You Can Stay Healthy at Work
Five Things You Can Do to Help Prevent the Spread of Flu
Three e-mail templates for federal agencies to send to employees
Flu Season is Starting. Get Ready Now!
If You Are Not Feeling Well
Staying Healthy
Additional communication resources for federal agencies
Additional Web resources for federal agencies"
"The purpose of Preparing for the Flu: A Communication Toolkit for the Federal Workforce is to provide information and communication resources to help federal agencies and employees implement recommendations from CDC in planning and responding to the 2009–2010 Influenza Season.
The toolkit includes:
Questions and answers about how federal agencies can respond to the 2009–2010
influenza season
Quick reference for federal agencies on 2009–2010 influenza season planning
and response
One fact sheet for federal agencies
Action Steps to Keep Your Federal Workforce Healthy
Two fact sheets for employees
Ten Ways You Can Stay Healthy at Work
Five Things You Can Do to Help Prevent the Spread of Flu
Three e-mail templates for federal agencies to send to employees
Flu Season is Starting. Get Ready Now!
If You Are Not Feeling Well
Staying Healthy
Additional communication resources for federal agencies
Additional Web resources for federal agencies"
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Federal Citizen Information Center
"For more than 35 years, the Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC) has been a trusted one-stop source for answers to questions about consumer problems and government services. Consumers can get the information they need in four ways: by calling toll-free 1 (800) FED-INFO, through printed publications and online through various social media channels and FCIC's family of websites:
USA.gov
Pueblo.gsa.gov
Kids.gov
Consumeraction.gov
GobiernoUSA.gov
"For more than 35 years, the Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC) has been a trusted one-stop source for answers to questions about consumer problems and government services. Consumers can get the information they need in four ways: by calling toll-free 1 (800) FED-INFO, through printed publications and online through various social media channels and FCIC's family of websites:
USA.gov
Pueblo.gsa.gov
Kids.gov
Consumeraction.gov
GobiernoUSA.gov
EPA Issues Final Aircraft Drinking Water Rule
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is issuing a final rule to ensure that safe and reliable drinking water is provided to aircraft passengers and crew. The rule provides multiple-barrier protection through requirements for coliform sampling, best management practices, corrective action, public notification, monitoring and operator training. It will better protect the public from illnesses caused by microbiological contamination.
"This rule is a significant step forward in protecting people’s health when they travel," said Peter S. Silva, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Water. "EPA has taken this step to make sure the public has drinking water that meets standards, both in the air and on the ground."
The final aircraft drinking water rule tailors existing health-based drinking water regulations to fit the unique characteristics of aircraft public water systems. Aircraft public water systems are subject to the requirements of the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWRs) under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The rule amends NPDWRs for these systems, building on existing aircraft operations and maintenance programs..."
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is issuing a final rule to ensure that safe and reliable drinking water is provided to aircraft passengers and crew. The rule provides multiple-barrier protection through requirements for coliform sampling, best management practices, corrective action, public notification, monitoring and operator training. It will better protect the public from illnesses caused by microbiological contamination.
"This rule is a significant step forward in protecting people’s health when they travel," said Peter S. Silva, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Water. "EPA has taken this step to make sure the public has drinking water that meets standards, both in the air and on the ground."
The final aircraft drinking water rule tailors existing health-based drinking water regulations to fit the unique characteristics of aircraft public water systems. Aircraft public water systems are subject to the requirements of the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWRs) under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The rule amends NPDWRs for these systems, building on existing aircraft operations and maintenance programs..."
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Fuel Economy Estimates for 2010 Vehicles
Find gas mileage estimates for new cars and truck from 1984 through 2010.
Find gas mileage estimates for new cars and truck from 1984 through 2010.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe Room For Your Home or Small Business
"Having a safe room in your home or small business can help provide "near-absolute protection" for you and your family or your employees from injury or death caused by the dangerous forces of extreme winds. Near-absolute protection means that, based on our current knowledge of tornadoes and hurricanes, there is a very high probability that the occupants of a safe room built according to this guidance will avoid injury or death. A safe room can also relieve some of the anxiety created by the threat of an incoming tornado or hurricane. Our knowledge of tornadoes and hurricanes and their effects is based on substantial meteorological records as well as extensive investigation of damage to buildings from extreme winds. All information contained in this publication is applicable to safe rooms for use in homes as well as in small businesses..."
Also available as a cd-rom product:
HS 5.120:Sh 4/2008/CD
Taking Shelter from the Storm: building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business., 3rd edition.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, August 2008
"Having a safe room in your home or small business can help provide "near-absolute protection" for you and your family or your employees from injury or death caused by the dangerous forces of extreme winds. Near-absolute protection means that, based on our current knowledge of tornadoes and hurricanes, there is a very high probability that the occupants of a safe room built according to this guidance will avoid injury or death. A safe room can also relieve some of the anxiety created by the threat of an incoming tornado or hurricane. Our knowledge of tornadoes and hurricanes and their effects is based on substantial meteorological records as well as extensive investigation of damage to buildings from extreme winds. All information contained in this publication is applicable to safe rooms for use in homes as well as in small businesses..."
Also available as a cd-rom product:
HS 5.120:Sh 4/2008/CD
Taking Shelter from the Storm: building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business., 3rd edition.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, August 2008
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Majority of Americans not Meeting Recommendations for Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
"No U.S. state is meeting national objectives for consumption of fruits and vegetables, according to the first report to provide state–by–state data about fruit and vegetable consumption and policies that may help Americans eat more fruits and vegetables.
“State Indicator Report on Fruits and Vegetables, 2009”was released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Healthy People 2010 objectives aim for at least 75 percent of Americans to eat the recommended two or more daily servings of fruit, and for at least 50 percent of Americans to eat the recommended three or more servings of vegetables daily. However, CDC surveys indicate that only 33 percent of adults meet the recommendation for fruit consumption and 27 percent get the recommended servings of vegetables. The statistics are even worse for high school students – 32 percent report eating at least two servings of fruit daily and 13 percent say they eat at least three servings of vegetables each day..."
"No U.S. state is meeting national objectives for consumption of fruits and vegetables, according to the first report to provide state–by–state data about fruit and vegetable consumption and policies that may help Americans eat more fruits and vegetables.
“State Indicator Report on Fruits and Vegetables, 2009”was released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Healthy People 2010 objectives aim for at least 75 percent of Americans to eat the recommended two or more daily servings of fruit, and for at least 50 percent of Americans to eat the recommended three or more servings of vegetables daily. However, CDC surveys indicate that only 33 percent of adults meet the recommendation for fruit consumption and 27 percent get the recommended servings of vegetables. The statistics are even worse for high school students – 32 percent report eating at least two servings of fruit daily and 13 percent say they eat at least three servings of vegetables each day..."
EPA Finalizes the Nation’s First Greenhouse Gas Reporting System/Monitoring to begin in 2010
"On January 1, 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will, for the first time, require large emitters of heat-trapping emissions to begin collecting greenhouse gas (GHG) data under a new reporting system. This new program will cover approximately 85 percent of the nation’s GHG emissions and apply to roughly 10,000 facilities.
“This is a major step forward in our effort to address the greenhouse gases polluting our skies,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “For the first time, we begin collecting data from the largest facilities in this country, ones that account for approximately 85 percent of the total U.S. emissions. The American public, and industry itself, will finally gain critically important knowledge and with this information we can determine how best to reduce those emissions.”
EPA’s new reporting system will provide a better understanding of where GHGs are coming from and will guide development of the best possible policies and programs to reduce emissions. The data will also allow businesses to track their own emissions, compare them to similar facilities, and provide assistance in identifying cost effective ways to reduce emissions in the future. This comprehensive, nationwide emissions data will help in the fight against climate change..."
"On January 1, 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will, for the first time, require large emitters of heat-trapping emissions to begin collecting greenhouse gas (GHG) data under a new reporting system. This new program will cover approximately 85 percent of the nation’s GHG emissions and apply to roughly 10,000 facilities.
“This is a major step forward in our effort to address the greenhouse gases polluting our skies,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “For the first time, we begin collecting data from the largest facilities in this country, ones that account for approximately 85 percent of the total U.S. emissions. The American public, and industry itself, will finally gain critically important knowledge and with this information we can determine how best to reduce those emissions.”
EPA’s new reporting system will provide a better understanding of where GHGs are coming from and will guide development of the best possible policies and programs to reduce emissions. The data will also allow businesses to track their own emissions, compare them to similar facilities, and provide assistance in identifying cost effective ways to reduce emissions in the future. This comprehensive, nationwide emissions data will help in the fight against climate change..."
CIA Opens Center on Climate Change and National Security
"he Central Intelligence Agency is launching The Center on Climate Change and National Security as the focal point for its work on the subject. The Center is a small unit led by senior specialists from the Directorate of Intelligence and the Directorate of Science and Technology.
Its charter is not the science of climate change, but the national security impact of phenomena such as desertification, rising sea levels, population shifts, and heightened competition for natural resources. The Center will provide support to American policymakers as they negotiate, implement, and verify international agreements on environmental issues. That is something the CIA has done for years. “Decision makers need information and analysis on the effects climate change can have on security. The CIA is well positioned to deliver that intelligence,” said Director Leon Panetta.
The Center will assume responsibility for coordinating with Intelligence Community partners on the review and declassification of imagery and other data that could be of use to scientists in their own climate-related research. This effort draws on imagery and other information that is collected in any event, assisting the US scientific community without a large commitment of resources..."
"he Central Intelligence Agency is launching The Center on Climate Change and National Security as the focal point for its work on the subject. The Center is a small unit led by senior specialists from the Directorate of Intelligence and the Directorate of Science and Technology.
Its charter is not the science of climate change, but the national security impact of phenomena such as desertification, rising sea levels, population shifts, and heightened competition for natural resources. The Center will provide support to American policymakers as they negotiate, implement, and verify international agreements on environmental issues. That is something the CIA has done for years. “Decision makers need information and analysis on the effects climate change can have on security. The CIA is well positioned to deliver that intelligence,” said Director Leon Panetta.
The Center will assume responsibility for coordinating with Intelligence Community partners on the review and declassification of imagery and other data that could be of use to scientists in their own climate-related research. This effort draws on imagery and other information that is collected in any event, assisting the US scientific community without a large commitment of resources..."
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