With significant federal action on global warming apparently on hold until at least January 2009, a September vote of the International Code Council (ICC) in Minneapolis could provide a real boost nationwide in the effort to make new building construction more energy efficient.  At the September meeting, the ICC will vote on a package of measures that would make the International Energy Conservation Code 30% more energy efficient.  The Code is the benchmark used by many government agencies nationwide when reviewing plans for new structures.  Accordingly, the U.S. Conference of Mayors, which has endorsed the package, is urging its member cities to send the maximum number of ICC delegates it can to the meeting so the package passes.

New Report Calls Global Warming a National Security Threat

The consequences of excessive carbon dioxide pollution are usually discussed in terms of their impact on the environment and public health.  Now, a new report commissioned by CNA Insurance, and developed with the input of 11 retired admirals and generals, calls global warming a challenge to our national security as well.  One of the main reasons is global warming is considered a “threat multiplier” that further destabilizes regions that already are volatile.

Low-Cost European Airlines Becoming Source of Global Warming Pollution

Despite high fuel prices, a group of European airlines is offering trips within the continent for as little as $16 round trip, less than the cost of a train ticket.  The result?  A huge boom in discount airline passenger levels, and a surge in global warming pollution.  Commercial aviation already is the fastest-growing source of carbon dioxide pollution, surging 5% every year, according to the European Environment Agency.

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