WEEK 13 - Planning For Sustainability

http://www.tucsoncitizen.com/ss/related/111757

Other states eclipse Arizona's efforts to lure solar industry

This article discusses the state initiatives taken to entice solar companies to locate in their states. Located in the Sonoran Desert, Arizona has an opportunity to capitalize on their natural habitat including large amounts of sunlight. As Wheeler states, “For the purposes of sustainability planning, state or provincial governments often have key roles to play in overseeing land use planning, transportation systems, environmental protection, equity and the formation of municipal governments” (Wheeler, 125). State governments play a very important role in implementation of initiatives which aid the greater picture of sustainability. For example, the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) that have been initiated in 24 states, are renewable energy goals set for states. Arizona has an RPS goal of 15% by the year 2025. Yet, Arizona has lost to the competition of other states in the battle to gain solar manufacturers. Most competition for the solar industry comes from other western states. Some of which have used tax incentives to lure the solar industry base to their state. “Oregon, for instance, offers a 50 percent tax credit to pay construction costs for renewable-energy equipment manufacturers. Development officials say it has helped them land seven international solar manufacturers in two years. Most of those companies had considered coming to Arizona.” In addition, New Mexico has provided tax benefits in addition to reimbursement for job training, and aid in infrastructure needs. "When I was in Phoenix, we didn't consider New Mexico competition," said Jim Colson, a former economic-development official for New Mexico, Glendale and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. "That has shifted. Now, New Mexico doesn't consider Phoenix competition."

Phoenix has until now relied on climate and population growth to drive industry. Yet, their lack of incentives and high property taxes has veered renewable energy companies away from Arizona. Sen. Barbara Leff, from Paradise Valley mentions, "If you're a company and you are trying to decide what state to move to, and some states are embracing you with open arms and you've got Arizona saying, 'We are not doing anything,' which one are you going to pick?"

Due to the new administration making steps to engage the environmental realm with the economic stimulus package has brought the alternative energy industries to a new arena. Yet, some companies tend to locate near their industry hubs. Arizona, needs to make a hard and steady attempt to become one of the hubs, or we may lose out on these high-paying manufacturing jobs. The Senate Bill 1403, is currently in the Arizona Senate seeks to bring incentives to solar companies to locate in Arizona. This includes “a 10% income-tax credit on capital investment which would be paid out over 5 years”. The incentives are no where close to as striking as the Oregon Tax Credits. Yet, it also looks at the workers benefits. The company must pay 80% of premiums and provide health care coverage to its employees. In addition, a majority of jobs must pay 25 percent more than the median wage in the state.

Peter Green, president and chief executive of Advent Solar in Albuquerque and a former executive with ON Semiconductor in Phoenix, does not seem optimistic. He agrees that even if the tax-incentives bill passes, the state lacks the strong political backing, the money for sweeteners such as infrastructure improvements, and the word-of-mouth industry buzz that help foster a solar industry.

The issue of increased solar energy consumption and thus a larger solar industry job force can be addressed at both a federal and city level. The federal level could create a national mandate of increased solar consumption. However, at the State level, as Wheeler mentions “certain relatively progressive states, or states with particularly serious problems, can at times go much further than a national government in developing policy and programs” (125) The city level could also create policies and programs for the energy crisis. In the case of solar energy, a municipality may have better luck at gaining residents’ support for environmental stewardship in the form of renewable energy sources. Efforts such as creating environmental organizations and groups at the city level will gain both knowledge and enthusiasm for solar projects. Although municipalities have the opportunity to create policies and programs more generally cater towards their communities’ circumstances, State policies and programs can affect a larger amount of people.

I believe that in this case, the State level is has a better chance of having a larger effect on the increase of renewable energy. The city level can only do so much, but the state level can aid in luring multiple renewable energy companies to the state. This would in turn, aid in economic restructuring and a new possible vision of the state. Although the State governments should create the framework for the future of renewable energy, the local level should work pro-actively to connect and add to the policies and programs set out by the state. With this in mind, the State level should build the framework while the local level can add programs to support the framework. Once again, education at the local level can gain support and enthusiasm for topics such as renewable energy sources.

Week 12 - Tools for Sustainability Planning

How Green is My Orange?
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/22/business/22pepsi.html

This article falls under the category, “Tools for Sustainability Planning-Ecological Footprint Analysis”. Yet, it also relates to the International Planning Issue of Global Warming. The tool of a measuring a carbon footprint, finds the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the ozone by producing a product, in this case orange juice. This tool can help to address the depletion of the Earth’s ozone layer while giving businesses a simple measurement of carbon dioxide emissions that they can attempt to reduce. As Bryan Lembke mentions, “If you don’t measure it, you can’t improve it.”. Wheeler points out that “Many key elements of urban sustainability, especially involving equity, livability, and social well-being are virtually impossible to incorporate into such a quantitative model.” However, these quantitative models are tools to give people a visual understanding of the affects that they have on the planet.

Within the article, author Andrew Martin describes that the company PepsiCo has done a carbon footprint analysis on Orange Juice. PepsiCo hired professionals to measure emissions from the orange juice processing behaviors; such as the factory work and transportation of the juice. All companies are affected by this type of process. Once one company promotes a low-carbon product, a trend may occur where all companies will have to also address their carbon output. “As public concern grows about the fate of the planet, companies will find themselves under pressure to perform such calculations”


Wheeler mentions “the usefulness of such statistics is questionable. What does one do with such figures?”(95). Although talking about the ecological footprint, the carbon footprint can also be related. The calculations “can become tremendously complex spreadsheet exercises.” Instead of finding the equivalent amount of land that would be required to produce resources, the carbon footprint finds the about of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere when producing a product. Each footprint gives humans a measurable quantity that they are able to visualize. The findings of PepsiCo was “the equivalent of 3.75 pounds of carbon dioxide are emitted to the atmosphere for each half-gallon carton of orange juice”

Wheeler reveals that the footprint analysis “seems to be a limited sustainability planning tool with applications more useful in public education than in specific policy making”(95). In my mind, education is still a powerful tool for sustainability, the more we know about our effects on the planet and ozone. This knowledge may be a key in providing people with enthusiasm and encouragement to improve our destructive habits. These tools may result in only knowledge about how each action affects the environment. The results may be action to mitigate the impact, even if these actions seem small, they still make a difference.






Article 2
Europe Wants U.S. to Join Carbon Trading Market
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/24/business/worldbusiness/24greenhouse.html

4-6 paragraph analysis of the sustainability issue that is outlined in the article.

This article falls under the category of “International Planning Issues”. Wheeler mentions that “Sustainability issues at an international scale are numerous and many by now well known”(108). Global warming is one of the areas where international agreements have been made to jointly combat the problem. In this article by James Kantar, it is announced that “the European Commission will call on the United States to create a trans-Atlantic system of carbon trading to limit greenhouse gas emissions and to press for the establishment of similar markets in developed countries”.

Wheeler describes the prior international agreements including the Kyoto Accords, surrounding global warming as “one area in which the world’s nations and other institutions can be said to be planning jointly.” However, there has not been much success from these international agreements such as the Kyoto Accords. In 2000, George W. Bush renounced any affiliation to the agreement in the Kyoto Accords. Other nations such as Germany have reduced emissions close to the Kyoto target. The United States have unfortunately not held up their end of the bargain. In 2000, “the US was 14.2 percent above the 1990 carbon dioxide emissions. Adding the United States to the list countries that have actively tried to reduce emissions will be a powerful tool for globalization of the fight against global warming.

In the article mentioned, Kantar talks about a climate treaty that will be discussed in Copenhagen this December. This treaty will be presented to take place of the Kyoto protocol which first phase will expire in 2012. A “strategic bilateral partnership with the United States, to create a trans-Atlantic carbon market” is at the heart of this new treaty.
Kantar also mentions that past efforts to gain global action on climate change have been hindered mostly because of the United States insisting on emission limits for countries such as China and India. Those countries believed that they had the right to improve their standard of living by industrialization (108). To create this central carbon market, the United States involvement is critical. However, this article mentions the debate on adopting market based system approaches or implementing a tax to limit gases that impose a threat on the ozone. The Obama administration must be willing to accept this treaty and form an international market based system approach or else this treaty will not be effective. To fight global warming effectively, it must be a global effort. It is unfortunate that the Kyoto agreement did not set targets for developing nations. However, will a global effort, this problem will can be addressed more thoroughly. The global warming challenge presented in this article is only one sustainability subject that should be addressed internationally. Wheeler also mentions that issues such as loss of biodiversity, depletion of fossil fuels, and other nonrenewable resources, damage to the Earth’s oceans, overpopulation, global inequities, and various forms of violence and welfare should also be at the top of the agenda (108).

Week 11: Sustainability

1. How do you believe sustainability should be defined for policy-making?

Stephen Wheeler mentions in his book, Planning for Sustainability, that the term sustainability has become “…one of those inevitable expressions that so neatly encapsulate what many people are thinking that it quickly becomes ubiquitous. Yet the conceptual roots of the term sustainability go far deeper and have to do with the evolution of human attitudes towards the environment within Western culture” (19). In addition he mentions that “ most sustainability advocates throw up their hands when faced with the definition question and fall back on the Brundtland formulation”(24) The Brundtland Commission defines sustainable development as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”(24). This definition is vague when it comes to policy making. It tends to address both weak sustainability and strong sustainability without defining how to meet the needs of the future. My view is that sustainability needs to be redefined in terms of policy-making to incorporate meeting criteria needed to create a more sustainable world today, while also being able to alter policies for the betterment of future. Because policy making for the future is a difficult task to gain popularity votes, the definition of sustainability must address both generations while looking deeply at our goals for the present generation. In my mind, sustainability for policy making should be defined as creating and maintaining holistic conditions that address the goal of social, economic, and environmental equity of today while also addressing possible future needs to the best of our scientific knowledge.

2. What are the difficulties associated with making sustainability a policy goal?

As Solow mentions “Sustainability is a problem precisely because each of us knows or realizes that we can profit at the expense of the future rather than at the expense of our contemporaries and the environment” (183). With the same view as Solow, it is difficult to get citizens and voters to act voluntarily on something that they will probably not see results of in their lifetime. As a policy goal, one difficulty is encouraging people with selfish mindsets to invest with time, money and energy into a possible outcome in a formless future. With the cluster of different values and outlooks on sustainability, the difficulty relies in establishing one goal, one focus that all citizens agree upon. This is echoed by the many definitions of sustainability presented in Planning for Sustainability, by Wheeler. How can citizens agree on sustainability as a policy goal, if we cannot agree on one definition of the term sustainability

3. If you had to design a practical framework to help a state environmental agency(e.g. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality) achieve ecological, economic and social sustainability, what would that framework look like? A. For example, how would you include citizens? How would you include experts? Which experts would you include?

Designing a practical framework to help a state agency can be complex. A proportional goal of environmental values, social values and economic values must be in sight when developing such a framework. To start I would appoint a panel of experts to address the current state problems. These experts would be a mix of government officials, as well as scientific, economic, environmental, and social professionals. With a motley mix of professionals a thorough understanding of each problem can be clarified. For each problem, education must be set in place. Without knowledge equity in the social realm will be completely lost. In addition, the panel should hold frequent meetings to gain insight from surrounding communities and other professionals about the issues at hand. With the integration of experts and the community, environmental problems will be addressed more carefully without a tendency to lean towards one realm or another. Thus, the environment, economy and social realms will all benefit from this framework.

4. Voters and politicians often want short term results, but many argue that sustainable development calls for a long-term policy plan. How do we take the long term view that sustainable development requires in this political environment?

According to Solow, our future is “inevitably vague”. We cannot determine the technological capacities, or future values of the next generations, thus planning for the future is a difficult task. It is human nature to act first for our own survival. Thus, the short term policies that address air quality, health issues, and economic certainties are often at the forefront of our minds as voters and politicians. However, has become apparent that our actions of today will greatly affect future generations. By degrading the environment for economic gains, our future for humanity is appearing grim. In order to accommodate both generations in our policy plans, we must begin with holistic short term needs which voters will hold as important values, while also leaving flexibility to address future needs. A holistic approach to short term planning will address the problems of today while also addressing the social, economic, and environmental implications that it will cause in the future.

Week 10: FRAMEWORK

The condition of our nation’s school facilities can have an immense impact on the ability of our children to learn and the quality of education they receive. By improving our schools and making upgrades using green technology, this legislation will create new jobs and help improve student health, learning ability, and productivity.

- U.S. Rep. Dave Loebsack (D-IA), a member of the Education and Labor Committee

VALUES FRAMEWORK

1. Does the issue stem from a behavior fundamental to our lifestyle?

Cohen defines civilization as “a term defined as human mastery over other species, and the development of surplus wealth and leisure time needed for thought, reflection, and the transmission of learning.”(13) Our current behavior fundamental has been conspicuous consumption. The environment has been a victimized by the increasing focus of consumerism.

Cohen mentions that although we may need humans to return to nature, in our consumerist world, it will be very difficult to change the billions of people who have become dependent on their materialistic lifestyle. Cohen states, “Other values we hope to achieve such as equity, justice, family, and education also preclude a radical redefinition of our relationship to the biosphere.”(13). The Green Schools Act will aid this reformation of education interrelated with the natural world.

2. Does the problem (or proposed solution) raise fundamental issues of conflicting values?

Creating a healthier environment for teaching and learning seems like a pragmatic goal. However, different values may be of conflict. With today’s economy, and its affects on education, $20 billion over the course of 5 years seems to be quite extravagant to some who believe that this act is not warranted. Some believe that this money should be going towards previous programs that are underfunded, such as the No Child Left Behind and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Others believe that this act is not throwing money away, and it will in fact improve education, economy, and the environment. By the use of sustainable design in schools, strides are made towards environmental protection while improvements in the economy are found by creating demand into a faltering U.S. construction industry. Contributing to the solution for global warming by encouraging more energy efficiency as well as the use of renewable energy recourses may cater towards the environmentalist, however economic and public health gains are visible. I think that the fundamental values of this bill are only conflicting when one fails to see the economic gains through the use of sustainable design of schools.

POLITICAL FRAMEWORK:

1. What is the status of the issue on the policy agenda.

HR. 58 “The Green Schools Act” was introduced to the 111^th Congress on January 6^th, 2009. Currently it has been referred to Committee to deliberate, and revise it before it goes into general debate.

A previous bill, H.R. 6065: Green Schools Act, was introduced to the 110^th Congress on May 15, 2008 and referred to the House of Education and Labor. Because it was not passed before the end of the 110^th session, it was cleared from the books.

2. Does the issue act independently of other political issues, or does it cluster with other key issues?

In general, the Green Schools Act is an independent political issue to “green schools”. However, it can be clustered with previous issues that combat environmental degradation through the use of environmental design practices. Such bills that could be clustered are; The Green Building Continuing Education Act, which requires that green building courses be included in mandatory courses for architects who are seeking re-licensure and The Green Building Standards Act, which required all building construction funded in whole, or in part, by the state must meet stringent green building standards. However, the Green Schools Act, does not require the schools to participate in the act. It simply helps fund those who will undergo the further step to make their school compliant with some or all of the green building standards.

3. In the U.S. context, which level of government is considered primarily responsible for addressing the issue (state, federal, or local)?

The local government is primarily responsible for addressing this issues relating to the Green Schools Act. Funding from the EPA is allocated to the local education agencies for projects for green school construction and improvements.

A local educational agency is defined in 20 USC 7801 as a

“public board of education or other public authority legally constituted within a State for either administrative control or direction of, or to perform a service function for, public elementary schools or secondary schools in a city, county, township, school district, or other political subdivision of a State, or of or for a combination of school districts or counties that is recognized in a State as an administrative agency for its public elementary schools or secondary schools” (26 A)

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY FRAMEWORK

1. Is there scientific certainty about the cause and effects of the problem?

With global warming at the heart of this initiative, the effect of the Green Schools Act will be the prevention of unnecessary production of millions of tons of CO2. It is fact that buildings are the largest contributors to US CO2 productions. Architecture 2030 a nonprofit, non-partisan and independent organization established in response to othe global warming crises notes, “Data from the US Energy Information Administration illustrates that buildings are responsible for almost half (48%) of all energy consumption and GHG emissions annually; globally the percentage is even greater. Seventy-six percent (76%) of all power plant-generated electricity is used just to operate buildings. Clearly, immediate action in the Building Sector is essential if we are to avoid hazardous climate change.” (Architecture 2030 accessed at http://architecture2030.org/current_situation/building_sector.html 03.26.09)

According to the Green Schools Act, funding will be provided to local education agencies, up to $10,000 per project for improvements or construction of green schools. The technologies used are based on the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building School Rating System, which is based on the LEED for New Construction rating system. The LEED standards were developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

2. Are the control or mitigation technologies widely available, and do we have experience with their management?

The LEED Rating System is widely available and is becoming increasingly credible with the passing years. In addition, but the Environmental Protection Agency and the USGBC are very reliable associations. Thus, the improvements and construction will be managed well in order to receive the funding.

POLICY DESIGN FRAMEWORK:

1. What is the mix of incentives and disincentives used to influence behavior to reduce damaging the environment?

Government will help fund half of the project cost; if 50 percent of the costs of the project will be paid from non-Federal sources; up to $10,000 dollars. The incentive here is for schools to invest more in the renovation or development of schools, now. This way they get help with funding from the EPA, while also being able to observe the energy savings and long term effects of green design. By upgrading schools to green design standards, both the school and the community benefit. A healthier place to teach and learn is created with low energy costs to keep running.

2. What type of progress away from the problem or towards a solution is the policy design likely to generate, and why?

This solution should aid in getting the ball rolling for “green educational improvements”. Costs have been a barrier to many school districts who would like to implement green standards into their everyday school atmosphere. In addition, health will likely improve if this act is used properly to upgrade deteriorating or unsafe schools. Lastly, with reduction in CO2 emissions from buildings, we will find ourselves pulling away from the ever apparent global warming crisis, by finding solutions to mitigate the causes.

MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

1. How much experience do we have in addressing this issue or others that share its characteristics?

Green Building has recently been given a rating system. LEED has been evolving over the past few years and is now at Version 3. The ever evolving rating system takes advantage of new technologies while maintaining a steady focus on energy efficiency and the reduction of CO2 emissions. As for experience, green design practices are becoming more popular and thus more utilized. There has been previous Acts, such as various Green Building Standards Acts, which are enacted by the state government and requires buildings that are owned or leased by the state to be LEED certified or comply with certain energy-efficient building standards. Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines include

Sustainable site improvements
Water conservation strategies and/or systems
Energy conservation strategies or systems
The use of sustainable materials
Strategies or systems that improve indoor environmental quality

Due to the years of experience, I think that we have much experience addressing the issue of green building. I believe that incorporating greed design in our school system will only help to educate more people about the many benefits of green design.

2. Do we know how to manage this kind of procedure or is it something we still need to learn?

Due to the previous green building procedures already discussed, I think that this is something that we know how to manage. It can be only beneficial to our education system in the United States.

Week 9 - International Trade, Population and Environmental Regulation

General Questions:

Do you think that the currently developing countries have the right to exploit forests (and other natural resources) as Europe and the United States did to increase their economic well being?

I believe that currently developing countries do have the right to exploit forests and other natural resources only to the extent at which it takes to sustain their own well being. It is the economic reasons that the United States used mass exploitation of natural resources for maximum profit. The excessive exploitation was the cause of much environmental degradation in the United States. Perhaps if the amount of exploitation was rationed our natural resources wouldn’t have been used so lavishly. It would be hard to ration the extent of exploitation of national recourses for developing countries, especially after the US exploited at such a high rate for economic gains. If we are supposed to lead by example, the United States have done a poor job. As a result, I think that currently developing countries may have the “right” to exploit forest to increase their economic well being. Yet, I am hopeful that they will not use these resources so hastily without thinking of the consequences.

What expectations do you think industrialized nations should have for developing nations in the climate change debate? Should equity between industrialized and developing countries be a goal in this debate?

I think that industrialized nations should have the expectations that developing nations will attempt to contribute to the reduction of emissions or will use some sort of regulation to reduce pollution. Equity is an unobtainable goal. However, because industrialized nations are now feeling the strains of the mass exploitation of natural resources, they should expect the developing nations to learn from the industrialization nation’s mistakes, and start incorporating environmental awareness in economic decisions.

What if a developing nation values economic development more than slowing down global warming? Should they be required to participate in reducing emissions?

It is inevitable that developing nations will value economic development more than slowing down global warming. This is due to the fact that education often has a correlation with income. The developing nations are usually less educated that those industrialized nations. Although their priorities may be economic development, I do believe that they should be required to participate in reducing emissions. Emission reduction should be a national attempt. Due to the fact that industrialized nations produce more waste and pollutants than currently developing nations; perhaps it is rational that developing nations should have to meet standards less rigid than those that are set in placed for the more wealthy nations.

Conversely, what expectations should developing nations have for industrialized nations?

Because education is a main reason that the poor are less likely to participate in environmental programs, I believe that the developing nations should have the expectation for industrialized nations to educate them in ways to become more environmentally conscious. In addition, they should expect industrialized nations to provide aid to help start environmental programs or associations.

Final Project Topic: Green Schools Act

Green Schools Act
HR 58 IH
111th CONGRESS

Objective: To promote green schools.

Humans have unknowingly broken away from their natural habitat. In the past century, we have managed to invent technologies that have since shaped the world. While we greatly abuse to our natural habitat for the most profitable outcome, we neglect to notice that our relationships with each other as well as relationships with nature have shattered. It is a great loss. The natural elements and landscapes of our native land are rarely known by name. And what used to be a home is now merely house. Humans have changed the world without right cause. Unfortunately, we have not yet come to the common realization we are connected to the natural world, we share the same planet and rely on it for life. It is our connections with nature and essentially the larger scale of things that brings us back to reality. We have to share this planet with all living creatures. If we do not learn to coexist we are simply aiming ourselves for destruction.

“Ecological design is not reducible to a set of technical skills. It is anchored in the faith that the world is not random but purposeful and stitched together from top to bottom by a common set of rules. It is grounded on a belief that we are part of the larger order of things and that we have an ancient obligation to act harmoniously within those larger patterns. It grows from the fact that we do not live by bread alone and the effort to build a sustainable world must begin by designing one that first nourishes the human spirit.” (Orr, 30)

I chose to do my final paper on the Green Schools Act. This bill is based on the opportunity to promote green construction and improvement to educational facilities.
This includes but is not limited to, grants (up to $10,000 per project) established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to aid in promoting green school construction and improvements. The construction methods, systems, technologies, or facility improvements that are to be used are based on the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines. Such initiatives include:

Sustainable site improvements
Water conservation strategies and/or systems
Energy conservation strategies or systems
The use of sustainable materials
Strategies or systems that improve indoor environmental quality

With respect for nature and each other, there is a possibility to build great educational facilities integrating this respect. Teaching our children about the environment through example is an important key to creating an environmentally aware society. With this act, education by example is created by incorporating the use of ecological design in educational facilities. Essentially a new respect for all of creation and a realization of the harmony created between space, humans, and nature will be understood and embedded within the students who learn at the green educational facilities.

Sources:
Orr, D. (2007) The Nature of Design: Ecology, Culture and Human Intention
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?c111:2:./temp/~c111PPDN7Q::

Minority Neighborhoods Health Risk Heightened

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE:
Minority Neighborhoods at Risk

In minority neighborhood, kids’ risk of cancer soars
By Howard Witt and Tribune Senior Correspondent July 29, 2007

WEBLINK:
http://archives.chicagotribune.com/2007/jul/29/news/chi-pollute_bdjul29

Manchestera Texas, a suburb in the midst of a Houston’s most toxic industrial zone, is seeing the repercussions of industrial pollution at length. Experiencing health problems including cancer, the residents of this 90% Hispanic, low-income, working class neighborhood are starting to see signs of the industrial zone, Houston Ship channel bearing a toll on the community. One resident Rosario Marroquin, has lived in Manchestera her whole life and has witnessed the cancer outbreak; her own 6 year old son, Valentin, has just started his leukemia treatments. Marroquin states “The factories were here fist, and I understand that…I understand that we need all this industry for our nation’s economy. But when you look at the pain of a child in the hospital, why can’t these plants do something better, invest more money in pollution controls?”(Witt, 2007). Residents of city of Manchestera, are just some of the many residents that are at jeopardy due to Environmental injustice. Evan Rinquist mentions that a number of studies in the 1980’s concluded that “minority neighborhoods generally experienced worse air quality, worse water quality, more landfills, more sources of toxic pollution, more hazardous waste sites, and weaker enforcement of environmental regulations.” (Vix, 239)

To address the cases in Houston, the University of Texas School of Public Health published a study of children living within a 2 mile radius of the Houston Ship Channel, an area heavily industrialized. In this study it was found that children who live within this radius have a “56 percent greater risk of contracting acute lymphocytic leukemia than children living farther away.” (Witt, 2007). This is not just a local problem; environmental justice issues such as this one are also a national problem. “Risk associated with environmental degradation and hazards are not always proportionate to all people and communities. Environmental justice is considered fair treatment for all people regarding environmental laws, regulations, and policies.” (www.epa.gov)

Rinquest shows that through studies such as Ken Sexton et al. “Air Pollution Health Risks: Do class and Race Matter?”, minority “residents are much more likely than white residents to live in areas with unhealthy levels of air pollutants.”(Vix, 244). Greater environmental health risks are associated with those people with greater exposure to facilities and pollution(Vix, 255). Consequently, Witt states that in EPA data analyzed by the Associated Press in 2005, it was found that “blacks are 79% more likely than whites to live in neighborhoods where industrial pollution is suspected of posing the greatest health danger.” Environmental injustices dealing with pollutants and minority residents associated health risks can be seen in the cases similar to the Manchestera Texas.

The argument in most cases is that the industries were there first and the residents came second. As an example, the Houston Ship Channel region case, the industrial petrochemical facilities were established during World War II, in a time where the area was highly unpopulated. The rebuttal is that the presence of industries often has a negative effect on housing property values, thus attracting low income families to the area. Unfortunately, political power of the minority, low-income communities is often lacking. Thus, the minority, low income community is stuck, with not enough money to move away from the situation and not enough political power to change the situation.

David Konisky mentions that “Communities with high levels of political capacity (that is, wealth, education, group organization skills are more likely to overcome free rider problems and pressure government into strictly enforcing environmental laws”(Konisky, 106). Because political power is a often a function of wealth, education, group organizational skills and frequent participation in the political process; low income minority neighborhoods, often lack political power(Rinquest 249). Thus, the government enforcement is often less stringent without the community interference. Community outreach coordinator for Mothers of Clean Air explains, “It is very easy for industry and the politicians to wear down these communities because they don’t believe they have a right to anything better, and many people are afraid to come forward and complain”(Witt, 2007). Yet, the children of the surrounding communities are developing illnesses that will be with them their entire lives.

States, such as Texas have the power to set their own standards for toxics; unfortunately, Texas has not done anything in the absence of federal standards. However, the Mayor of Houston, Bill White is advocating for stiff fines on industrial plants that do not reduce their toxic emissions. Due to the strong opposition from the petrochemical industry, White has agreed to the formation of an “an industry-government commission” to aid in voluntary emission reductions. Although optimistic, to eliminate the possibility of less stringent laws in the minority neighborhoods, White threatens that if the plants do not comply voluntarily then he will be forced to resurrect his proposed ordinance dealing with strict fines. Reductions of emissions may be costly to the industrial plants, but it can be done. It is hopeful, that with the reductions, health risks associated with living in proximity to the plants will decrease.

Week 5 - Contingent Valuation

It is important to note that contingent valuation should be used on issues that are more local in nature and do not need to rely on science for policy decision making. Some issues that would benefit from both cost-benefit analysis and contingent valuation are recreational opportunities in rivers or streams, biodiversity restoration and appraisal of brownfields. Contingent valuation can be used to understand the view of the public on each of the issues at hand. For example, the public may see recreational opportunities in their local river very differently from those who are proposing the recreation. They may also be able to bring a new vision of the area to the project. Biodiversity restoration can also have advantages when using contingent valuation. The public may be able to bring light to the loss of biodiversity at the local level.

Contingent Valuation should not be used with issues in which extreme scientific research is needed. One example is the issue regarding damage control of industrial pollution in lakes or streams. For this particular issue, science must be involved to accurately access the extremity of the problem and its’ possible health implications. The public’s view, although important, could not accurately understand the public health implications of the pollution. Contingent Valuation in this case could do more harm than good. An example broader in scope is global warming. Again, in this example, science takes precedence in the decision making platform. Because the cause and effects of global warming are not well defined, it would be difficult for the public to create their own opinions in the issue. In both of these examples, we must rely on science to bear the weight and reliance of the environmental issue.

Week 4 - Knowledge is Power

I believe that as public managers or environmental planners, it is our duty to inform the public of the science to environmental issues at hand. It has been confirmed that including the public in the decision making process can, when being presented as a holistic approach, create an outcome more suitable to the public. In turn involving the public can create relationships between the project, project leaders, and the public. The format of information needs to be accessible to all classes to eliminate the possibility of exclusion. Thus, it can not be only web, media, or telephone based. A public meeting prior to the starting date of the environmental process should be available. In addition, handouts should be given to the affected community and even affected region, for initial educational value of the project. These should include where to find additional information on the subject.

When educating the public on the environmental issue, additional alternatives may be able to be found through public involvement. As the public grows more attached to the issue, they will be more likely to give insight into what matters to the public locally and regionally. In turn, a collective solution could be derived to maintain a relationship between all parties. Giving the public knowledge, is also giving them authority. This frightens many planners and managers. However, we need to look at environmental issues through holistic approaches, not just a one time attempt to mitigate implications on the environment. Educating the public can only bring us closer to the goal of creating a place where environmental, social, and economic realms can be seen as not as conflicting interest but as complementary interests.

Week 3 - Op Ed

Most environmental critics have been tough on President Obama’s administration and its collaboration between environmental and economic policies. In reality, the administration has done an admirable job of contributing to environmental awareness and stewardship while also using environmental reform to support economic gains for the United States citizens. It is known that the “U.S. government is able to produce significant environmental gains through public policies” (Vix, 28). To really understand just how much Obama has contributed in the short time, the past 40 years of environmental policy making must be understood. This article illustrates, in a short version, the past administrations and different presidential approaches to environmental awareness, support, and efficacy.

“Until about 1970 the federal government played a sharply limited role in environmental policy making – public land management being a major exception”(Vix, 11). The 1st Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970. With Earth Day came the widespread concern for quality of life and environmental protection. The President during this “environmental decade” of the 1970s was Nixon. It was during this time period that a number of federal environmental policies and legislation were put into force. The 1st of 19 pieces of environmental legislation passed during 1970’s was the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) which forced environmental awareness to be evaluated in each decision making process. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established by Nixon in 1970 to attempt to revitalize environmental degradation and to steer Americans to make environmentally conscious decisions.

President Carter’s administration, the environmental mentality remained. Environmental agencies existing and new began to further their environmental support. Through Jimmy Carter’s reign the importance of environmental concerns in America was heavily reiterated. It was within President Carter’s term that America’s first national energy policy was created to address a concern for the U.S. dependence of foreign oil. The energy policy established a national petroleum reserve.

Ronald Reagan was next to take office. His presidency began in a time of high inflation and unemployment. He switched focuses from environment to economics and is coincidentally most famous for his “Reaganomics”. During this period environmental action lacked tremendously. In fact, to reduce government spending, almost all of the 1970’s environmental policies were reevaluated. The EPA’s budget was radically reduced and they were asked to rewrite rules and procedures to be more favorable to businesses practices. On the other hand, there was some environmental good that came out of the Reagan administration. Environmental forces in the nation such as grass root and national groups formed and gained support to create additional environmental activism.

Environmental action in the Administration was in dire need from the drought that Reagan Administration had created. George Bush Sr. took a stronger approach to environmental policy than Reagan. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 were a sign of the start of what turned out to be a moderate attempt for increased environmental advocacy. However, with the Bush administration taking a more “Reagan” approach to environmental policies, his term qualified as moderate environmentalism at best.

Hope for environmental activism came again during the Clinton Administration. President Clinton and Vice President Al Gore, a key leader in environmental awareness, were eager to implement new environmental policies based primarily on science. Clinton and Gore tried to find ways that the environment could support economy instead of oppose it. However, most of their ideas were not taken well by congress which had a good number of conservative environmental appointees. In the end, most of Clinton’s notable environmental progress was through preservation acts.

George W. Bush was less concerned with conservation and protection. Similar to Reagan, Bush Jr. was interested in the economic impacts of environmental regulation. Environmental action during his reign was done through the states and local governments. California, a progressive environmental state, passed regulations for greenhouse gas emissions in 2004. Unfortunately, the EPA later stopped California and other states from enforcing environmental regulations for pollutants. Among other things the Bush administration continued to weaken already established regulations and reduced budgets for environmental agencies. Much of this was due to the conservative environmental appointees. A glimpse of hope was apparent as Vice President Dick Cheney was asked to write a national energy plan. Sadly, most of the outcome was industry induced with little focus on science. Through findings, it has been learned that the Bush administration had edited many documents to bend the recommendations into alignment with his new environmental policies. The economic downward spiral in the U.S. made the gap between environmental agendas and economic agendas even further dispersed.

President Obama came into office when America had been hurt the most. With servicemen still overseas, the economy at a low point, and environmental degradation showing a sure sign on global warming, Obama took a chance and promised much to the American people. He was aware of the battle ahead, but was willing to face it head on. He began by fighting for bipartisan support has gained just that. The Congress has been collaborative on environmental policies and the new era of “bipartisanship” is beginning to shown light on a brighter future for Americans.

Unlike Reagan, Obama found a connection between the environment and economics. Obama gave the state and local governments back the power to regulate emissions while also setting an aggressive goal for automakers. His approach was to mandate the auto companies in the U.S. to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles with hopes to find jobs for so many Americans who had been displaced. Understanding that economic concerns are real, his stimulus package created a number of green jobs, putting Americans to work as well as educating the public on environmental awareness. With the economy showing signs of upward progress, America began to regain hope. Incentives for the buying locally, as well as the use of green products, homes, and jobs, have put a higher demand on green thinking. Over the last 4 years, the use of solar and wind power in the United States has increased 12%. His collaboration with environmentalist and scientist is admirable as well as his focus on both economy and the environment. Some compare Obama to the period of Nixon and Carter. Yet, the threats to the environment today are much more alarming than those of the 70s. Thus, new policies, leadership, and innovative thought should be acknowledged.

I ask the critics: In a time of war and despair, did Obama not find peace and hope? Perhaps Obama’s term will not be felt until after he has gone but it will be felt. His fight during his term was hard and relentless. Picking Americans up from the bottoms and showing them a future. Perhaps the improvements were not great considering how far we had fallen. Yet, the positive effects of the Obama Administration on environmental gains are inevitable.

Source: Vig, N. and M. Kraft, Eds . (2005). Environmental Policy: New Directions for the 21`st Century, CQ Press.

Week 2 - Environmental Policy - Obama

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/27/us/politics/27calif.html?ref=earth
Obama Directs Regulators to Tighten Auto Rules (January 27, 2009)

The main focus of this article was the regulation of vehicle emissions. I believe that the most interesting point of the article was the Obama quote mentioning that his orders were made “to ensure that the fuel-efficient cars of tomorrow are built right here in America.” I had recieved a mass e-mail the other day that hit close to home mentioning an American's daily routine, and the area which the products used were manufactured. (i.e. toothbrush, hair dryer, car, ipod, lap top, cell phone, etc.) None of the products were made in America, and the American went to bed wondering why he was having such a hard time finding a job in America. I believe that the Obama standpoint on making environmentally concious products HERE, is a great start for America. We are far behind the trend, and have paid a lower penny to have our daily products shipped to us, neglecting to think of the environmental impacts of the shipment process.

The auto industry was Obama's focus. Yet, he was sure to mention that the finiancial troubles of the auto industry would be taken into account when asking the auto manufactures in the U.S. to take on such a task. As he states, “Our goal is not to further burden the struggling American auto industry, but rather to make a major step toward addressing global warming by cleaning up the American transportation fleet." In my opinion, it is reassuring to see an initiative to bring environmental awareness to a forefront.