The purpose of this study is to assess worldwide environmental-related issues in order to identify and analyze events that might trigger future international environmental treaties, conventions, or protocols and/or modifications to the existing ones.
Your views on these items and/or your suggestions of additional items are most welcome. Please email Elizabeth Florescu at millennium-project@igc.org.
The Millennium Project defines environmental security as environmental viability
for life support, with three sub-elements:
· preventing or repairing military damage to the environment,
· preventing or responding to environmentally caused conflicts, and
· protecting the environment due to its inherent moral value.
For an organization of the items in cathegories around the structure of this definition, please download the MsWord document ES-scanning-07.doc --items identified between August 2002 and June 2007, or ES-2006-07.pdf for items identified between July 2006-June 2007.
For a complete version of the monthly reports with Military Implications, see
the Army Environmental Policy Institute web page http://www.aepi.army.mil/rpt-weei.html
Following below, the items are organized by the months they were identified--updated
monthly.
2007
July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
April 2007
March 2007
February 2007
January 2007
2006
December 2006
November 2006
October 2006
September 2006
August 2006
July 2006
June 2006
May 2006
April 2006
March 2006
February 2006
January 2006
2005
December 2005
November 2005
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
June 2005
May 2005
April 2005
March 2005
February 2005
January 2005
2004
December 2004
November 2004
October 2004
September 2004
August 2004
July 2004
June 2004
May 2004
April 2004
March 2004
February 2004
January 2004
2003
December 2003
November 2003
October 2003
August-September 2003
July 2003
June 2003
May 2003
April 2003
March 2003
February 2003
January 2003
2002
December 2002
November 2002
October 2002
September 2002
August 2002
Tougher Law of the Sea Regulations Suggested for Marine Genetic Resources
The UN Open-ended Informal Consultation Process on Oceans and the Law of the
Sea produced some recommendations for improving the management and protection
of marine genetic resources, including designing enforceable regulations along
with liabilities and responsibilities related to marine genetic resources; increasing
protection of the marine environment from the effects of man-made factors; and
encouraging collaborative research, access and use of marine resources in areas
beyond national jurisdiction. Although the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea
is recognized as the legal framework for all activities in the oceans and seas,
there is disagreement on how the Convention applies to marine genetic resources
in areas outside national jurisdictions. The G-77 group of developing countries
and China consider marine genetic resources “common heritage of mankind”;
while Japan, the U.S. and some other developed countries argue that they fall
under the provisions relating to the high seas. The debate will continue in
2008 at the UN Ad Hoc Open-ended Informal Working Group on issues relating to
the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity beyond areas
of national jurisdiction.
Sources:
United Nations Open-ended Informal Consultative Process on Oceans and the Law
of the Sea http://www.un.org/Depts/los/consultative_process/consultative_process.htm
States Reach Partial Agreement on Marine Genetic Resources at UN Talks
http://www.newsletterarchive.org/2007/06/30/180929-STATES+REACH+PARTIAL+AGREEMENT+ON+MARINE+GENETIC+RESOURCES+AT+UN+TALKS
Countries Address Marine Genetic Resources at UN Talks http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=23037&Cr=Law&Cr1=Sea
Uncertainty Hindering Management of Marine Genetic Resources, UN Meeting Told
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=23072&Cr=law&Cr1=sea
New Policies for Addressing Climate
Change
Corporate CEOs Pledge Actions on Climate Change at UN Global Compact
Summit
More than 150 CEOs signed the “Caring for Climate” platform at the
UN Global Compact Summit held in Geneva July 5-7, including 30 from the Fortune
Global 500. The pledge called for companies to reduce their carbon emissions
and meet energy-efficiency targets, and called on governments to establish post-Kyoto
market mechanisms to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Sources:
Companies pledge at U.N. to cut carbon burdens http://www.reuters.com/article/ousiv/idUSL0654572920070706
Participants Pledge to Pursue More Sustainable, Inclusive Economy http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/eco119.doc.htm
Caring For Climate: The Business Leadership Platform (text of the statement)
http://www.unglobalcompact.com/docs/issues_doc/Environment/CaringforClimate_27June.pdf
Companies Commit to Reducing Climate Risks http://www.worldwatch.org/node/5194
Regional Initiatives for Climate Change
EU Climate Change Policy
The European Commission launched a six-month public debate on approaches for
adapting to climate change. Citizens, Parliaments, Member States and international
partners will contribute views along the lines set by the Green Paper “Adapting
to Climate Change in Europe - Options for EU Action” launched in June
2007 [see last month’s report item on Climate Change]. The results, available
at the beginning of 2008, will be considered in policymaking and setting priorities
for developing a EU adaptation strategy by the end of 2008.
Meantime, UK Foreign Secretary, David Miliband, listed climate change among
the UK Foreign Office’s ten ‘strategic priorities’, on a par
with consequences of extremism, radicalization, and conflict. He noted that
climate change might become the “new raison d’être”
for the EU, as “one of the greatest threats to our future prosperity and
security… Creating an Environmental Union is as big a challenge in the
21st century as peace in Europe was in the 1950s” he said.
Asia-Pacific to Increase Responses to Climate Change
Anticipating that Asia and the Pacific could be one of the regions most severely
affected by climate change, a two-day meeting organized by the UN and other
international agencies focused on identifying strategies, business models, and
financial frameworks to reduce the impact of climate changes and promote clean
energy while pursuing economic growth. Recommendations were made by government
policymakers, business leaders, academics, and representatives of NGOs from
across the region. Meanwhile, Australia’s opposition Labor Party announced
that it would give its poorer neighbors $US132 million to address impacts of
climate change.
Sources:
Adaptation to climate change: it may be a matter of survival! Stavros Dimas,
Member of the European Commission, responsible for environment
http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=SPEECH/07/457&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
Climate change: Europe must take adaptation measures to lessen impacts of current
and future warming
http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/07/979&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
Adapting to Climate Change –Launching a public debate on options for EU
Action http://ec.europa.eu/environment/climat/pdf/eccp/adapting.pdf
New Diplomacy: Challenges for Foreign Policy (Rt Hon David Miliband MP, Foreign
Secretary)
http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029391647&a=KArticle&aid=1184751108322
Asian-Pacific countries discuss responses to climate change at UN-backed meeting
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=23270&Cr=climate&Cr1=change
Asia-Pacific Examines Ways to Scale Up Responses to Climate Change http://www.unescap.org/unis/press/2007/jul/g29.asp
Australia's opposition ties Pacific climate to security http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/news/stories/s1987423.htm
EC Proposal for Water Pricing
The European Commission released a green paper proposing a water framework
directive to deal with possible future water scarcity and assure sustainable
water use in Europe. Feedback on specific proposals for pricing water on the
“user pays” principle is expected from both the European Council
and the Parliament. The EC warns that water shortage and drought might become
the norm in Europe by 2070.
Source:
Commission opens debate on EU water scarcity http://www.theparliament.com/EN/News/200707/58fe829f-2224-462f-a5bc-81eadd80e13e.htm
Water scarcity and droughts in Europe: Commission addresses key challenge http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/07/1121&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
Water policy in the European Union http://ec.europa.eu/environment/water/quantity/scarcity_en.htm
EU Preparing New Directives on Waste Management and
Water Quality
The EU Environment Council reached political agreement on revising the EU's
waste legislation––combining three existing laws: the Waste Framework
Directive, the Hazardous Waste Directive, and the Waste Oils Directive into
a more clear but comprehensive new Directive––and on managing water
quality by improving standards and control systems and limiting pollution from
hazardous substances.
Source:
Environment: Commission welcomes Council agreements
http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/07/970&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
Technological Breakthroughs with Environmental Security
Implications
Polymer Dielectric Promises Higher Energy Storage
North Carolina State Univ. physicist Vivek Ranjan and colleagues have discovered
that combining the polymer polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with chlorotrifluoroethylene
(CTFE)–– another polymer— produces a dielectric material that
may allow capacitors to store up to seven times more energy than those currently
in use.
Source:
Unique Material May Allow Capacitors to Store More Energy http://news.ncsu.edu/releases/2007/July/123.html
Synthetic Biology to Combat Harmful 'Biofilms'
A team of researchers from MIT and Boston University has genetically engineered
an E. coli bacteriophage to produce an enzyme that degrades the biofilm that
the bacterium often produces and which interferes with the action of the phage.
The researchers applied this technique to E. coli biofilms, (producing a hundred-fold
phage performance improvement) but they believe that their approach can be used
with many other bacteria. For example, it might be possible for a modified anthrax
bacteriophage to be sprayed on an area affected by anthrax, and then wiped off.
Sources:
Team builds viruses to combat harmful 'biofilms' http://www.physorg.com/news102951008.html
Nano-based Solar Cell Material Offers Inexpensive Alternative
Scientists at New Jersey Institute of Technology's Department of Chemistry and
Environmental Sciences have developed an inexpensive polymer solar cell material
that can be painted or printed on flexible plastic sheets. The material uses
a carbon nanotube complex combined with buckyball fullerenes, and offers a cost
advantage over purified silicon. [See also Biologically Based Dyes Dramatically
Lower Solar Cell Costs in April 2007 and Photonic Crystal Provides
50% Cost Reduction in March 2007 environmental security reports.]
Source:
NJIT Researchers Develop Inexpensive, Easy Process To Produce Solar Panels http://www.njit.edu/publicinfo/press_releases/release_1040.php
Tiny Cantilevers Detect Contaminants
Prof. Anja Boisen and colleagues at the Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology,
Technical University of Denmark, have created a detection device for contaminants,
based on the change in resistance of a cantilever, 40×200 microns in size,
when a contaminant molecule or bacterium binds to its antibody-coated surface
and bends it. A variation works by using a similar element as the lid of a pigment-containing
box, so when the strip bends, it releases a detectable color.
Source:
Using Nanotechnology to Detect Contaminants in Food and Water http://www.azonano.com/news.asp?newsID=4535
Rapid molecular detection of food- and water-borne diseases http://www.sgm.ac.uk/pubs/micro_today/pdf/080703.pdf
Magnetic Resonance Provides Short-range Power Source
Marin Soljacic of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has developed a
technique for transmitting electric power at usable efficiency over distances
of a few meters, using tailored oscillating electric and magnetic fields. Dr.
Zhong Lin Wang and colleagues at the Georgia Institute of Technology have succeeded
in using nanotechnology to produce an electric generator that can be embedded
in the human body and may have the potential, when fully developed, of producing
usable amounts of power from such mechanical sources as the pulsation of the
arterial system. The combination offers locally produced, locally consumed,
and environmentally friendly electricity.
Source:
Cutting the last cord could resonate with our increasingly gadget-dependent
lives http://www.sciencenews.org/articles/20070721/bob8.asp
Nanogenerator Could Draw Energy from Human Blood http://news.softpedia.com/news/Nanogenerator-Could-Draw-Energy-from-Human-Blood-60580.shtml
New Software with Environmental Security
Implications
NASA-Developed Model to Help Reduce Famine
Researchers from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center have developed a computer
model to anticipate food shortages brought on by drought, combining data from
satellite remote sensing of crop growth, and food prices.
Source:
NASA Researchers Find Satellite Data Can Warn of Famine http://www.nasa.gov/lb/centers/goddard/news/topstory/2007/famine_data.html
Software Package Monitors Buildings' Power
The Sun Flow Monitor System software package marketed by Live Data Systems,
Inc., Branchburg NJ, monitors a building’s power sources, conventional
or alternative, and its building management systems. This new software produces
reports, which can aid in minimizing the structure’s environmental demand.
Source:
New Software Helps Gauge Buildings' Energy Use, Emissions http://www.greenbiz.com/news/news_third.cfm?NewsID=35457
Company site: http://s205030653.onlinehome.us/
Updates on Previously Identified Issues
OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Agrees to Advance Work on Environmental
Security Strategy
Further to last month’s item on the OSCE Environmental Security Strategy:
the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly passed the resolution to support efforts of
OSCE’s 56 participating States and 11 Partners “to tackle environmental
security threats and thus to promote stability;” to continue work, “to
develop an Environmental Security Strategy for the Organization to be debated
at the OSCE Ministerial Council in November in Madrid;” to recommend that
“the OSCE works closely together with OSCE participating states as well
as national and other international organizations experienced in the field of
environmental security; and “Calls upon OSCE participating countries to
develop their own environmental security strategies.”
Source:
Kyiv Declaration of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and Resolutions Adopted
at the Sixteenth Annual Session; Kyiv, 5 to 9 July 2007 http://www.oscepa.dk/admin/getbinary.asp?FileID=1733
Resolution on Environmental Security Strategy http://www.oscepa.dk/admin/getbinary.asp?FileID=1733
Annual Sessions & Declarations http://www.oscepa.dk/index.aspx?articleid=+376+376
EC's WEEE Directive Goes into Effect in UK in July 2007
The European Commission's Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
entered into effect in the United Kingdom on July 1, 2007, after having been
effective in the rest of Europe since August 2005. The WEEE Directive is a framework
concerning electrical and electronic appliances disposal in order to minimize
impacts of this kind of waste on the environment. Among other stipulations,
the directive requires that all such devices manufactured in the EU bear a label
requiring mandatory recycling. [See also E-waste Management Directive Came
into Effect on August 13, 2005 in August 2005 environmental security report]
Sources:
New obligations for end-of-life IT equipment http://www.business4brunch.com/content/view/207/25/
The IT Chief's Guide to WEEE http://greenercomputing.com/reviews_third.cfm?NewsID=35442
EU Waste Shipment Legislation Came into Force in July 2007
The EU legislation on transboundary shipments of waste adopted in 2006 came
into effect July 12, 2007. The regulation establishes a legal framework to ensure
that waste is properly handled from the time it is shipped to the time it is
disposed of or recovered at destination, and bans the export and/or disposal
of hazardous waste to certain countries. The new law replaces the 1993 waste
shipment regulation, stipulating a more clear and simplified framework, as well
as more severe enforcement measures. [See also EU to Increase Environmental
Regulations Enforcement in October 2006, Toxic Waste Disposal of Global
Growing Concern in September 2006, and other related items in previous
environmental security reports.]
Sources:
Environment: new EU waste shipment legislation comes into force today http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/07/1078&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
Regulation (EC) No 1013/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2006/l_190/l_19020060712en00010098.pdf
Waste shipments http://ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/shipments/legis.htm
Arctic Access, Territorial Claims, Energy Resources and Environmental
Management
Global warming is expected to increase access to the Northwest Passage and other
Arctic areas. Canada announced the construction of up to eight Polar Class 5
Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships and the establishment of a deep-water port in the
far North. A Canadian opposition party and some Canadian analysts say Canada
should do much more to assure its sovereignty over the area. The status of some
Canadian Arctic waters is not clear among the relevant neighboring counties
with varying territorial claims in the Arctic. Russia planted its flag on the
seabed 4.2 km below the North Pole to strengthen its claims over a large Arctic
area. [See also The Disputes over the Northern Territories Set to Continue
in June 2007, New Canadian Strategies for Monitoring the Northwest Passage
in August 2006, and Arctic Northern Passage Opens New International Issues
of Regulation in February 2006 environmental security reports.]
Source:
Ottawa buying up to 8 Arctic patrol ships http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2007/07/09/arctic-cda.html
Arctic patrol ship purchase met with skepticism http://www.cbc.ca/canada/north/story/2007/07/10/north-shipreax.html
The Coming Conflict in the Arctic. Russia and the United States to Square off
over Arctic Energy Reserves http://www.russiaprofile.org/page.php?pageid=International&articleid=a1184076124
Russia plants flag under N Pole http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6927395.stm
Accelerating Synthetic Biology Applications Need Better Monitoring
and Regulation
Recently, there were some significant synthetic biology advances, such as the
Genome transplant by the J. Craig Venter Institute (transforming one type of
bacterium into another by transplanting of donor chromosome into the host),
and MIT and Boston University built viruses to combat harmful 'biofilms' (see
item 5.2 above). These developments increased the discourse around security
issues related to synthetic biology, thus intensifying the regulations debate.
International treaties such as the Convention on Biological Diversity might
need to be revised in view of the new synthetic biology field. Along the same
line, the International Consortium for Polynucleotide Synthesis appeals for
improved regulation and surveillance of DNA synthesis products. They propose
an oversight framework to improve biosecurity in the gene-synthesis sector,
to prevent ill-intentioned individuals from accessing and using such materials.
[See also Futuristic Nanotech and Synthetic Bioweapons Regulation in
November 2006 and ETC Report Warns of the Threat of Synthetic Biology and
Calls for Global Regulations in January 2007 environmental security reports.]
Sources:
Synthetic Biology 3.0 http://www.innovationwatch.com/choiceisyours/choiceisyours-2007-07-15.htm
First Bacterial Genome Transplantation Changes One Species To Another http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/06/070628232413.htm
Genome Transplantation in Bacteria: Changing One Species to Another http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/1144622
Scientists Build Bacteria-Killing Organisms From Scratch http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2007/07/designer-virus-.html
NBICS and the Convention on Biological diversity (CBD) http://politicsofhealth.org/wol/2007-06-30.htm
Government Oversight Sought for Gene Synthesis http://www.nti.org/d_newswire/issues/2007_7_23.html#6805AC84
DNA synthesis and biological security http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/v25/n6/abs/nbt0607-627.html;jsessionid=A7690C7549ADA0D4A2EC6D17EA7BCE2D
IAEA to Improve Nuclear Security in 35 Countries
The EU contributed €7 million to IAEA’s Nuclear Security Fund to
improve nuclear security in 35 countries, including 27 in Africa. The focus
will be to secure radioactive materials and sites at risk of sabotage and improve
capabilities to detect and respond to illicit trafficking in some African countries,
including Ghana, South Africa, Morocco, Nigeria, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and
Zambia. The program will also work to strengthen national legislation and regulatory
infrastructures related to nuclear and radioactive material in––among
other countries ––Azerbaijan, Cape Verde, Comoros, Croatia, Swaziland,
and the Former Yugoslavia Republic of Macedonia. Despite the latest contribution,
“IAEA’s nuclear security programme remained 90 per cent funded through
unpredictable and heavily conditioned voluntary contributions,” notes
IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei.
Source:
Nuclear Security in Africa Gets €7 Million Boost http://www.iaea.org/NewsCenter/News/2007/nuclsecafrica.html
Climate Change Research
Melting Glaciers
Ice caps and glaciers contribute 60% of the ice melting that is one cause of
increasing sea levels. According to scientists from the University of Colorado-Boulder's
Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, INSTAAR, and the Russian Academy of
Sciences, the rate has been accelerating over the past decade and 28% of this
comes from Greenland, and 12% from Antarctica.
In the Andes, many of the lower glaciers might be gone over the next decade
or so, raising concerns over water and power supplies, and thus affecting economic
development and the fight against poverty in the region––mainly
in Peru.
Scientists observing the modifications in Greenland are also warning of fast
paced melting and increasing temperatures in the region. Arctic climatologist
Konrad Steffen who spent the past 18 springs on the Greenland ice cap, noted
that over the last decade, the average winter temperature rose by 7ºF,
and cracks and ice quakes are more frequent, as if Greenland is “coming
apart.” The Greenland Climate Network established by Steffen serves climate
scientists worldwide and is one of the main instruments used by scientists from
60 nations participating in interdisciplinary research focusing on the Polar
Regions, during the International Polar Year.
The Chinese Academy of Sciences reports that the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau is
warming at 0.7ºF a decade, and that the 18,000 square mile area covered
by glaciers has shrunk by 30% over the past decades, threatening to dry up the
Yellow River and thus causing more droughts, sandstorms and desertification.
The Chinese government already had to relocate some of the local population.
Rising Sea Level
During the recent meeting at the UN Open-ended Informal Consultation Process
on Oceans and the Law of the Sea, Indonesia said it has lost 26 islands to climate
change.
A team of scientists from the University of Colorado-Boulder's Institute of
Arctic and Alpine Research, INSTAAR, and the Russian Academy of Sciences estimates
that by 2100 accelerating melt of glaciers and ice caps could cause 0.1–0.25m
(4–9.5 inches) additional sea level rise. This rise might be doubled if
the expansion of ocean water warming is factored in.
Sources:
Glaciers Dominate Eustatic Sea-Level Rise in the 21st Century
http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/1143906
(abstract; full text by subscription only)
http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/1143906/DC1
(supporting online material)
Glaciers and Ice Caps Quickly Melting Into the Seas http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/jul2007/2007-07-20-03.asp
Glacial melting poses potentially costly problems for Peru and Bolivia http://www.economist.com/world/la/displaystory.cfm?story_id=9481517
Konrad Steffen: The Global Warming Prophet http://www.popsci.com/popsci/environment/6661e3568cc83110vgnvcm1000004eecbccdrcrd.html
Warming of glaciers threatens millions in China http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2007/08/01/MN2VRAKIH2.DTL
United Nations Open-ended Informal Consultative Process on Oceans and the Law
of the Sea http://www.un.org/Depts/los/consultative_process/consultative_process.htm
States Reach Partial Agreement on Marine Genetic Resources at UN Talks
http://www.newsletterarchive.org/2007/06/30/180929-STATES+REACH+PARTIAL+AGREEMENT+ON+MARINE+GENETIC+RESOURCES+AT+UN+TALKS
Asia-Pacific Examines Ways to Scale Up Responses to Climate Change http://www.unescap.org/unis/press/2007/jul/g29.asp
North American Trilateral Agreement for Energy Security and the Environment
Energy ministers for Canada, Mexico and the U.S. endorsed the first trilateral
agreement on energy science and technology––a framework designed
to enhance North American energy security and environmental protection. It focuses
on cooperation in energy science and technology to increase energy efficiency
and advance clean energy technologies across North America and the world. Energy
security will also be high on the agenda of the North American Leaders’
Summit to be held August 20-21 in Montebello, Quebec.
Source:
North American Energy Ministers Take Further Action on Energy Security and the
Environment http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/media/newsreleases/2007/200766_e.htm
Nanotechnology Safety Issues
Some noteworthy nanotech-related events include:
The European Commission (EC) invites comments on the proposed Recommendation
on a Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Research.
The Commission intends to collect views on the safe development of NST from
a broad audience, ranging from research, industry, civil society, policy and
media, and the general public.
The UK’s Royal Society and a group of other organizations have begun an
initiative to develop a "Responsible NanoCode" for businesses working
with nanotechnologies. According to Nanowerk, "The aim of the Code will
be to establish a set of internationally relevant principles which outline good
practice for businesses involved in all aspects of these emerging technologies
and their applications including research, development, manufacturing, distribution
and retailing." The code will be developed by a working group of representatives
from a variety of stakeholders.
A U.S. Congressional bill ‘To ensure the development and responsible stewardship
of nanotechnology’ was referred on July 31, 2007 to the Committee on Science
and Technology, and in addition to the Committees on Ways and Means, Energy
and Commerce, and Homeland Security.
A "Pollution Prevention through Nanotechnology" conference will be
held September 25-26, 2007, in Arlington, VA. The forum is organized by EPA
to improve understanding of nanotechnology and to “encourage responsible
development of nanotechnology that prevents pollution.”
Source:
Entry point to the survey (managed via Sinapse(r) communication system)
http://ec.europa.eu/sinapse/sinapse/index.cfm?fuseaction=login.guestform&redirect=cmtypubdischome.home&CMTY_ID=4E10DF9B-C446-4B22-214E55DE322F72D9&cmty_disc_id=9C2891B3-D043-41F9-2DD3F3E6174CBA7A&request=1
Responsible nanotechnology code for business to be developed http://www.nanowerk.com/news/newsid=2252.php
H.R.3235. Title: To ensure the development and responsible stewardship of nanotechnology
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:HR03235:@@@T
Pollution Prevention through Nanotechnology Conference: September 25-26, 2007
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/nano/nano-confinfo.htm
Reports Suggested for Review
Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2007
Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2007–– Analysis
of Trends and Issues in the Financing of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
in OECD and Developing Countries is a report by UNEP Sustainable Energy
Finance Initiative and New Energy Finance organization. It is an overview of
the financial aspect of the current status of sustainable energy development,
with regional and sectoral trends. The analysis is intended for stakeholders
and policy makers with involvement in sustainable energy.
Source:
Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2007–– Analysis of
Trends and Issues in the Financing of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
in OECD and Developing Countries http://www.unep.org/pdf/SEFI_report-GlobalTrendsInSustainableEnergyInverstment07.pdf
Renewable Energy Projects May Face New Scrutiny
According to a paper published in Inderscience's International Journal of Nuclear
Governance, Economy and Ecology, some renewable energy sources might not be
so green and might even be damaging to the environment. The paper’s author,
Jesse Ausubel, Director of the Rockefeller University's Program for the Human
Environment in New York, focuses primarily on land use efficiency of the various
alternatives (e.g. wind, biomass, hydro), and points to nuclear as the best
choice from the standpoint of minimizing environmental footprint.
Source:
Renewable energy wrecks environment, scientist claims http://www.world-science.net/othernews/070724_renewable.htm
UN Nuclear Terrorism Convention Enters into Force on July 7, 2007
The International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism
enters into force on July 7, 2007; about two years after Member States adopted
it, in April 2005. It is one of the measures to reduce risks posed by nuclear,
biological, and chemical weapons, and is the 13th international instrument on
terrorism. The Nuclear Terrorism Convention creates an international legal framework
that will help countries enhance their nuclear security and collaborate to prevent
terrorist groups from gaining access to nuclear material. It should also add
strength to the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. As of the end of June, the
Convention has 115 signatories and 23 Parties.
Sources:
International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism http://untreaty.un.org/ENGLISH/bible/englishinternetbible/partI/chapterXVIII/treaty19.asp
Ban Ki-moon welcomes new agreement to defeat nuclear terrorism http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22892&Cr=nuclear&Cr1=
UN Security Council Adds Natural Resources Management and Environmental Issues to Future Peacekeeping Missions
A Security Council session dedicated to assessing the link between natural
resources and conflict concluded that efforts should increase to improve natural
resources management––mainly in failed or vulnerable states––so
that their use contributes to post-conflict recovery, rather than fueling conflict.
Monitoring and certification systems similar to the Kimberley Process Certification
Scheme––concerning “conflict diamonds”––should
be developed or emulated to stop illegal exploitation of resources, which triggers,
exacerbates, or maintains conflict. The Council report added: In the case of
peacekeeping and peacebuilding, the Council should ensure that the root causes
of conflicts and the role of resources as a contributing factor were addressed
in peace agreements as a way of ensuring that countries did not relapse into
the vicious cycle of conflict. Therefore, in order to be more successful, peacekeeping
operations should include an environmental and natural resources management
dimension.
Source:
Security Council Underscores Need for Peacekeeping Mandates to Consider Helping
States Prevent Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources from Fuelling Conflict
http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sc9060.doc.htm
UNEP Warns No Peace in Sudan without Environmental
Management Plan
The UNEP report Sudan Post-Conflict Environmental Assessment underscores that
the conflict-torn region is unlikely to achieve a lasting peace unless it switches
to sound natural resources management. Desertification and deforestation, spread
of deserts southwards, increased pressure by unsustainable agriculture, and
environmental degradation exacerbated by oil exploitation all contribute to
increasing scarcity of resources, the main cause of the Sudan conflict. The
report emphasizes that if these problems are not quickly and appropriately addressed
the conflict might spread.
Sources:
Darfur conflict heralds era of wars triggered by climate change, UN report warns
http://environment.guardian.co.uk/climatechange/story/0,,2109490,00.html
Environmental Degradation Triggering Tensions and Conflict in Sudan http://www.unep.org/Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?DocumentID=512&ArticleID=5621&l=en
International Crisis Group to Debate
Considering Climate Change Variable in Conflicts
The International Crisis Group, which tries to prevent conflicts by monitoring
vulnerable regions based on indicators such as political instability, began
in June to debate whether to include climate change as a new variable in its
analysis.
Source:
Rainfall records could warn of war http://environment.newscientist.com/channel/earth/mg19426064.500?DCMP=NLC-nletter&nsref=mg19426064.500
(by subscription)
World Health Organization: Stress Environmental Impact on Human Health
The World Health Organization published a report showing correlation between
disease and environmental factors for the first time at country levels. The
analysis reveals that reducing environmental risks including pollution, unsafe
water, ultraviolet radiation, and climate change could save 13 million lives
per year. WHO estimates that in some countries, more than one third of the disease
burden could be prevented through environmental improvements. Each country profile
provide an overview of the health risks caused by the specific environmental
situation of the country, thus helping policy making in setting priorities for
disease prevention.
Sources:
New country-by-country data show in detail the impact of environmental factors
on health http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2007/pr30/en/index.html
China’s Climate Change and S&T Action Plan
China launched its first national climate change program in June 2007. Although
it does not include mandatory caps on emissions, it shows a strong commitment
to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The program highlights some major targets
and actions to achieve them by 2010: reducing energy consumption by about 20%
per GDP unit; increasing the share of renewable energy to 10% of the primary
energy supply; keeping emissions of nitrous oxide from industrial processes
at 2005 levels; increasing reforestation by 20%, and increasing international
cooperation. The program notes that “China’s energy efficiency is
about 10% lower than that of the developed countries, and its per unit energy
consumption of energy-intensive products is about 40% higher than the advanced
international level. Science and technology are the ultimate resort for humankind
to tackle climate change.” In view of this, the Chinese Ministry of Science
and Technology has released an action plan for the science and technology (S&T)
aspects of China's new climate change initiative.
Note: The Chinese State Environmental Protection Administration report released
in June reveals a continuous deterioration of air and water quality in Chinese
cities despite national efforts to reduce pollution levels. Concomitantly, preliminary
estimates by the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency reveal that in
2006 China surpassed the U.S., becoming the world’s largest CO2 emitter.
Sources:
China’s National Climate Change Programme http://en.ndrc.gov.cn/newsrelease/P020070604561191006823.pdf
S&T to underpin China's climate activities http://www.scidev.net/News/index.cfm?fuseaction=readNews&itemid=3687&language=1
China Struggling to Control Urban Pollution http://english.sepa.gov.cn/zwxx/hjyw/200706/t20070612_105064.htm
China now no. 1 in CO2 emissions; USA in second position http://www.mnp.nl/en/dossiers/Climatechange/moreinfo/Chinanowno1inCO2emissionsUSAinsecondposition.html
Technological Breakthroughs with Environmental
Security Implications
Nanofibrils Film Improves Explosives Sensing Performance
A team of scientists from the University of Illinois and the Chinese Academy
of Sciences developed a new fluorescent film, made from nanofibrils, which offers
greatly improved performance in the detection of such explosive vapors as TNT.
These sensors indicate the presence of explosives by losing their glow. They
can be recycled repeatedly and also resist deterioration from exposure to sunlight.
Source:
U.S. and Chinese scientists have created a type of fluorescent sensing material
that could lead to rapid detection of explosives in security screening http://www.physorg.com/news99672192.html
Bacterial Proteins Help Nanoparticle Cleanup
A new discovery indicated that bacteria could excrete proteins causing metal
nanoparticles to aggregate, making them easier to remove from the environment.
Apparently the bacteria produce the proteins to protect themselves from potentially
toxic nanoparticles. The team of researchers from the Lawrence Livermore National
Laboratory, UC Berkeley, and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found
the bacteria at the abandoned Piquette Mine, in southwestern Wisconsin. Peter
Weber from the LLNL notes that the discovery indicates that cysteine or cysteine-rich
polypeptides or proteins could potentially be used for nanoparticle clean up.
“With the boom in nanoscience, people are naturally asking questions about
the potential environmental impacts. Here, we see that naturally produced nanoparticles
can be naturally controlled,” he commented.
Source:
Microbes at work cleaning up the environment http://www.llnl.gov/pao/news/news_releases/2007/NR-07-06-07.html
New Material Has High Absorbency for Organic Solvents
Researchers at Kyushu University in Fukuoka have developed a new material, which
can absorb large amounts of organic solvents such as chloroform. The material
can absorb 300-480 times its weight of various agents.
Source:
Kyushu University developed new material, which can absorb large amount of organic
solvent such as chloroform. Japan Chemical Information of May/2007
Updates on Previously Identified Issues
REACH Entered into Force on June 1, 2007
The EU chemicals law, Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restrictions
of Chemicals (REACH) entered into force on June 1. The law’s managerial
body, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in Helsinki, officially began its
operations. REACH is regulating the manufacturing, marketing, import, and use
of all chemicals in the EU through a single system. The chemicals have to be
registered over the next 11 years with the ECHA. REACH will significantly improve
protection of human health and the environment while encouraging innovation
and keeping the EU's chemical industry competitive. "[REACH] is the most
progressive chemicals legislation in the world," said EU Environment Commissioner
Stavros Dimas. [See also International Controversies over REACH in June 2006,
Integration of Chemical Regulations (REACH) Approved by European Council in
December 2005, and other related items in previous environmental security reports.]
Sources:
New European Chemicals Agency starts operations as REACH enters into force http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/07/745&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Moving Closer
to Adopting an Environmental Security Strategy
Further to last month’s OSCE to Develop an Environmental Security Strategy,
the Millennium Project learned that the Spanish OSCE chairmanship is working
towards an environmental security strategy and is circulating a draft to be
discussed and agreed upon by the ministers of the OSCE participating states
at the Ministerial Meeting taking place in Madrid at the end of November 2007.
[See also OSCE to Develop an Environmental Security Strategy in May
2007 environmental security report.]
Source:
Millennium Project staff discussions with OSCE officials
Japanese Chemical Weapons Cleaning in China Yet to be Completed
June 2007 was the deadline agreed to by Chinese and Japanese authorities for
cleaning up the Japanese chemical weapons littering China since the Japanese
war against China. Yet, this month, a number of Chinese construction workers
suffered health problems after being exposed to a ruptured mustard agent bomb
believed to have been dropped by a Japanese warplane many years ago. The unexploded
bomb was hit by the construction team while excavating for a residential building
in Bayannaoer City in Inner Mongolia. The Japanese government is expected to
receive a request to destroy the weapon, sources said. In May 2007, Japan’s
Supreme Court ruled that Chinese victims of Japanese biological warfare and
other atrocities that occurred before and during World War II are not eligible
for compensation. [See also Discussions over World War II Japanese Warfare
Program in China not Settled Yet in July 2005, China: Japan to Pay
$2.7 Million for War Gas Leak in October 2003 and Effects of Poison
Gas Used in WWII by Japan in May 2003 environmental scanning reports.]
Sources:
Japanese chemical bomb unearthed in north China http://english.people.com.cn/200706/15/eng20070615_384705.html
(article available for a limited time)
Japan rules against war claims http://www.guardian.co.uk/worldlatest/story/0,,-6622616,00.html
(article available for a limited time on the website).
Commercial Whaling Ban Strengthened by International Whaling Commission
(IWC)
Delegates to the IWC meeting adopted a resolution to keep the moratorium banning
commercial whaling in effect, despite Japan’s lobbying for its suspension.
Conservation organizations and anti-whaling countries argue that Japan’s
lethal “scientific research on whales,” violates international regulations
for whales’ protection. Japan threatens to leave the IWC and form another
organization to deal with regulations on whale-related issues. [See also Marine
Biodiversity Protection Regulations Need Improvement in January 2006 and
Website for Marine Protected Areas and Cetaceans’ Sanctuaries
in March 2007 environmental security reports.]
Sources:
Commercial whaling ban strengthened at Anchorage whaling meeting http://www.greenpeace.org/international/news/commercial-whaling-ban-strengt
Draft Resolution CITES, IWC/59/19 Agenda Item 14.3 http://www.iwcoffice.org/_documents/commission/IWC59docs/59-19.pdf
Climate Change––Research Aspects
New Scientific Evidences
The American National Academy of Sciences found that CO2 emissions grew faster
then forecasted by the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Between
2000 and 2004, worldwide CO2 emissions increased at 3.1% per year, three times
the 1.1 % per year during the 1990s. The growth was predominantly driven by
developing and least-developed economies, which accounted for 73% of global
emissions growth in 2004.
NASA satellite observations revealed Greenland snow is melting faster then expected.
In 2006, in some monitored areas there were 10 days more of melting snow than
the average over the past 18 years. This is consistent with the pattern observed
since 1988. "We need to do more. The situation is very dramatic,"
remarked European Commission President, José Manuel Barroso after visiting
Greenland to personally observe the effects of global warming. The hunting and
fishing season has shortened to four to five months compared to eight months
a few years ago. The UN choice to celebrate World Environment Day 2007 in Tromsø,
the Nordic Norway city, was to stress the global environmental impact of melting
ice and snow and the role of satellite technology in identifying and analyzing
long-term climatic trends and changes in polar regions.
A group of climate scientists from NASA and Columbia University Earth Institute
found that climate change is “close to critical tipping points, with potentially
dangerous consequences for the planet.” In a related interview, Dr. James
Hansen of NASA said that the point of no return might be reached as soon as
in 10 years, if world governments fail to curb GHG emissions. He also noted
that the IPCC report underestimated sea level rise, which, he warns, might reach
1-2 meters by the end of the century, if West Antarctic and Greenland melting
are factored in. The Dangerous human-made interference with climate: a GISS
modelE Study outlines two scenarios: ‘business-as-usual’, which
shows disastrous consequences, and an ‘alternative scenario’ assuming
controlled GHG emissions generating more moderate effects.
Mitigation of Climate Change
"The world has moved from a global threat once called the Cold War, to
what now should be considered the Warming War," Afelee Pita, Tuvalu Ambassador
to the UN, told the Security Council in warning of the threat of rising sea
levels to small island nations such as his country. The first session of the
multi-stakeholder Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction was held in Geneva,
June 5-7, 2007. Focusing on systematic implementation strategies of the "Hyogo
Framework for Action 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities
to Disasters,", the session highlighted the need for raising awareness
and stimulating action at government and grassroots levels for improving disaster
reduction preparedness in areas increasingly vulnerable to risk. The meeting’s
outcomes will be presented at the 62nd UN General Assembly. The next meeting
of the Global Platform is planned for 2009.
Prior to the G8 Summit, representatives of 20 leading financial service companies––members
of the UNEP Finance Initiative––called on G8 leaders to adopt deep
emission reduction targets no later than 2009. They highlighted that in addition
to climate-related disaster consequences for human security, inaction could
lead to annual economic losses of as much as $1 trillion by 2040. However, the
economic aspect is just a small part of the post-disaster suffering, highlights
the Worldwatch Institute report, Beyond Disasters: Creating Opportunities for
Peace. The report notes that over the past decade, there were an average of
348 disasters per year—nearly one per day––with 1 billion
people affected by floods alone. In 2006, human deaths from natural disasters
were up 24% and 87 countries were affected by floods, which were responsible
for most weather-related disasters. Sophisticated Japanese and Taiwan computer
models show that tropical storms––typhoons––in the highly
populated areas of the northwest Pacific will be getting worse for the next
100 years.
The UN University report Re-thinking Policies to Cope with Desertification warns
that desertification reached global environmental crisis proportions and is
representing “imminent threats to international stability." Unless
appropriate mitigation strategies are implemented, about 2 billion people might
be affected by desertification effects; and, over the next decade, 50 million
might be displaced.
Accelerating temperature rise over the past 10 years increased the drought in
Australia––worse in the most populated areas––so that
the situation got to national crisis proportions. Although equipped with the
highest water storage capacity per capita in the world, in the major cities
supply might fall 40% short of demand by 2025 due to growing population and
possibly more severe drought. In China, because of drought, more than 8 million
people are short of water, and many livestock perish. In Sichuan province, armed
police deliver water to the nearly 4 million people affected by severe drought.
The European Commission Green Paper ‘Adapting to Climate Change in Europe
- Options for EU Action’ warns that unless advanced planning occurs, European
countries will suffer “increasingly frequent crises and disasters”
that will “threaten Europe’s social and economic systems and its
security.”
Post-Kyoto Negotiations
The most important developments on post-Kyoto negotiations include:
- Leaders attending the recent Heiligendamm (Germany) G8 summit agreed to seek
“substantial” cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, and to launch negotiations
at the December 2007 UN Summit for eventually reaching agreement on a new––more
inclusive––UN-led treaty by 2009. EU, Canada, and Japan supported
a target of a cut to 50% of the 1990 emissions level by 2050.
- Denmark began preparing for the 2009 UN climate summit that it will host.
However, it admits that reaching a political agreement on a new global climate
treaty to replace the current Kyoto Protocol will not be easy.
- Ahead of the September Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, Australia's
Prime Minister John Howard is seeking to launch negotiations for an Asia-Pacific
new climate agreement and to use the summit for including emerging high emitters
as China and India in a post-Kyoto accord.
- Norway plans to become the world’s first “carbon neutral”
country, by reducing its emissions to zero by 2050, or paying for equivalent
reductions elsewhere.
- The UN Secretary General will hold a special high-level meeting on climate
change prior to the September Heads of State and Government summit. He called
climate change the “defining issue of our era.”
Sources:
Research Finds That Earth's Climate is Approaching 'Dangerous' Point http://www.nasa.gov/vision/earth/environment/danger_point.html
Dangerous human-made interference with climate: a GISS modelE Study
http://pubs.giss.nasa.gov/docs/2007/2007_Hansen_etal_1.pdf
Rising sea level forecasts understated, say scientists http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/06/20/1957115.htm
Global and regional drivers of accelerating CO2 emissions http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/abstract/0700609104v1
Alarming acceleration in CO2 emissions worldwide http://www.carnegieinstitution.org/news_releases/news_2007_0521a.html
Value of satellites highlighted at World Environment Day http://www.esa.int/esaEO/SEMBUUEVL2F_planet_0.html
NASA Researcher Finds Days of Snow Melting on the Rise in Greenland http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Newsroom/NasaNews/2007/2007052925071.html
Barroso sees 'dramatic' climate change in Greenland http://euobserver.com/9/24356/?rk=1
Tuvalu Envoy Takes Up Global Warming Fight http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=10950375
Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction http://www.preventionweb.net/globalplatform/
UN agencies, partners call on wealthy nations to adopt emission targets
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22801&Cr=climate&Cr1=change
One man's battle to hunt down typhoons http://news.independent.co.uk/sci_tech/article2652805.ece
Beyond Disasters: Creating Opportunities for Peace http://www.wilsoncenter.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=events.event&event_id=244464#
(video)
Beyond Disasters: Creating Opportunities for Peace http://www.worldwatch.org/node/5111
Re-thinking Policies to Cope with Desertification http://www.inweh.unu.edu/inweh/drylands/IYDD_Policy_Brief.pdf
Desertification: Experts Prescribe Global Policy Overhaul to Avoid Looming Mass
Migrations http://www.unu.edu/media/archives/2007/files/mre29-A-07.pdf
Australia - the continent that ran dry http://environment.newscientist.com/channel/earth/mg19426085.300;jsessionid=CFNDNHPPHLOB
(by subscription only)
Armed police deliver water to drought-hit Sichuan http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/PEK157663.htm
China Drought Causes Water Shortages for Millions
http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/42773/story.htm
Mudslides, floods kill nearly 130 in Bangladesh http://uk.reuters.com/article/homepageCrisis/idUKSP1987._CH_.242020070612
Adapting to Climate Change –Launching a public debate on options for EU
Action http://ec.europa.eu/environment/climat/pdf/eccp/adapting.pdf
Secretary-General Welcomes G-8 Agreement on ‘Strong and Early Action’
To Combat Climate Change http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sgsm11029.doc.htm
Australia's Howard Plans Asia-Pacific Kyoto Successor http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/42494/story.htm
Denmark seeks global climate deal in 2009 http://euobserver.com/877/24147/?rk=1
Climate Change ‘Defining Issue of Our Era,’ Says Ban Ki-Moon, Hailing
G8 Action http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22836&Cr=&Cr1=
Struggling to save the planet. The Economist, May 31st 2007 http://www.economist.com/world/international/displaystory.cfm?story_id=9261663
Call For “Disaster Diplomacy” as Millions Are Affected http://www.worldwatch.org/node/5127
The Disputes over the Northern Territories Set to Continue
As the North is warming up, opening access to its rich resources, the territorial
claims over the Arctic region are set to increase. Reportedly, Russia is prepared
to challenge the international community and claim sovereignty over large parts
of the Arctic region that is now under the International Seabed Authority, on
grounds of the region’s geological continuity and similarity with continental
Russia. [See also New Canadian Strategies for Monitoring the Northwest Passage
in August 2006, and Arctic Northern Passage Opens New International Issues of
Regulation in February 2006 environmental security reports.]
Source:
Putin's Arctic invasion: Russia lays claim to the North Pole - and all its gas,
oil, and diamonds
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/worldnews.html?in_article_id=464921&in_page_id=1811
Idle Nighttime Computers Cited as Energy Wasters
A new report released by the energy management firm 1E and the Alliance to Save
Energy points out the large amount of energy now being wasted by idle computers
left running at night. The study calculated that 14.4 million tons of CO2 could
be eliminated annually from atmospheric pollution in the U.S. if all of these
machines were turned off when not being used for extended periods.
Sources:
Energy Awareness Campaign http://www.1e.com/energycampaign/index.aspx
PC Energy Report Released Today Shows That Shutting Down Your PC at the End
of the Work Day Will Have a Major Impact on Business Savings and Reducing CO2
http://www.csrwire.com/News/8951.html
Nanotechnology Safety Issues
French Group to Study Nanotech Environmental Health and Safety
The Observatory for Micro and NanoTechnologies (Minatec, France), a part of
the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), has launched a working group
to study the possible effects of nanoparticles and nanomaterials on the environment
and human health. The aim is to enable non-specialists to keep up-to-date with
the rapid evolution of the field of nanotoxicology. The group will consist of
14 experts meeting three times a year.
New Nano Risk Framework
DuPont and Environmental Defense have released the Nano Risk Framework, jointly
developed guidelines for evaluating the safety and environmental risks of nanotechnology
products. The 87-page report, almost two years in the making, includes three
examples of how DuPont applied the framework.
Sources:
Establishing a working group on the effects of nanoparticles and nanomaterials
on the human health and the environment
http://www2.cnrs.fr/presse/communique/1104.htm
(French website)
Nano Risk Framework: http://www.nanoriskframework.com/page.cfm?tagID=1095
Reports Suggested for Review
Worldwatch Institute: Assessing the Relation between Disasters and
Conflict
Beyond Disasters: Creating Opportunities for Peace, a report by Worldwatch Institute:
analyses the nature and effect of disasters over the past 20 years and the impacts
of human activities on the climate; highlights the factors of vulnerability;
and makes a few recommendations to reduce the social consequences of disasters
and to eventually use post-disaster reconstruction as an opportunity for building
lasting peace. The report considers three case studies: Aceh, 2004 Indian Ocean
tsunami––that became a catalyst for peace; Sri Lanka––despite
the ceasefire, the conflict continued mainly because of an inadequate post-disaster
reconstruction strategy; and Kashmir––the earthquake didn’t
influence the stalled reconciliation process.
Source:
Beyond Disasters: Creating Opportunities for Peace http://www.worldwatch.org/node/5126
Beyond Disasters: Creating Opportunities for Peace http://www.wilsoncenter.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=events.event_summary&event_id=244464
(video)
SIPRI Year Book 2007 Points out Environmental, Nuclear, and Energy
Threats
The 2007 edition of the authoritative Stockholm International Peace Research
Institute (SIPRI) Yearbook, along with statistics on conflict and weapons expenditure,
highlights the main categories of threats to peace that the world faces. Among
the main threats, it lists: energy, which “could become a weapon”;
and the environment, highlighting that “Using the world’s resources
to address hunger, environmental factors and poverty is likely both to improve
human survival and to strengthen international security.” Concerning nuclear,
chemical and biological threats, the report warns on high uncertainties of the
stockpiles and research around the world and calls for increased transparency
and better policies for risk assessments and risk-remediation strategies.
Sources:
SIPRI Yearbook 2007 http://yearbook2007.sipri.org/
SIPRI Warns of Growing Nuclear Risks http://www.nti.org/d_newswire/issues/2007_6_12.html#7DADDB8B
Cleantech Report™ by Lux Research
Cleantech Report™ by Lux Research is a comprehensive analysis of emerging
energy and environmental technologies with information ranging from statistics
to funding and policies on cleantech. It notes that cleantechs are rapidly expanding;
1,500 cleantech start-ups operate worldwide, there were 29,874 cleantech-related
scientific journal articles published in 2006, and 4,093 patents issued in the
U.S. alone.
Source:
The Cleantech Report™ http://www.luxresearchinc.com/cleantech.php
Environmental Change and Security Annual Report
The 12th annual report of the Woodrow Wilson Center's Environmental Change and
Security Program explores the link between environment, conflict, and cooperation
in Africa, focusing on fragile states. It calls attention to other smaller––local––conflicts
triggered by increasingly shrinking resources due to population growth, climate
change, and accelerated environmental degradation. It warns that unless timely
measures are taken, those small conflicts might escalate into wars and humanitarian
disasters, such as in Sudan's Darfur region. However, "efforts to promote
sustainability—and use natural resources as peacebuilding tools—could
help turn deadly environments into safe, sustainable neighborhoods". say
the authors. The report includes the contributions of eight African leaders
and scholars.
Source:
ECSP Report 12 http://www.wilsoncenter.org/index.cfm?topic_id=1413&fuseaction=topics.publications&group_id=240703
OSCE to Develop an Environmental Security
Strategy
The Economic and Environmental Forum of the Organization for
Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), held in May 2007 in Prague focused
on constructive actions that would help its 56 participating States and 11 Partners
tackle environmental security threats and promote stability. OSCE Chairman-in-Office,
Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos said: “Environmental co-operation
can be an effective catalyst for reducing tensions, broadening co-operation
and promotion of peace.” There was consensus that environmental security
should top the Organization’s agenda and the parties agreed to study the
implications of climate change on security, the role of environmental sustainability,
and how OSCE's actions could complement other organizations’ efforts.
An Environmental Security Strategy for the Organization will be developed over
the coming year and debated at the OSCE Ministerial Council to be held in November
in Madrid. Several follow-up events to the environmental forum are planned.
A resolution may be introduced in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly to further
support this governmental initiative to help insure its implementation under
the next Chairman-in-Chief of the OSCE.
Sources:
OSCE meeting transforms concern about environment security into action
http://www.osce.org/eea/item_1_24652.html
OSCE meeting fosters co-operation to reduce environmental threats, says Chairman
http://www.osce.org/eea/item_1_24589.html
Pan-African Parliament Upgrades Environmental
Policy
Environmental issues were given increased emphasis during the
Pan-African Parliament (PAP) Seventh Ordinary Session held in May 2007. Deputies
and experts discussed the liability of Western countries relating to the continent’s
environmental degradation, and called for financial compensation and technological
assistance to correct the situation. The recommendations of the committee on
the environment included: request the PAP strengthen legislation for protection
of the environment and fighting against pollution; establish synergy among African
scientific research institutions related to protecting the environment; create
a network of environmental centers; create an African Environment Protection
Observatory (AEPO); support regional initiatives; improve global cooperation
and implementation of the Convention on Desertification; and strengthen international
cooperation in scientific research and technology transfer. There were important
debates about an African integration––a United States of Africa
model––and the final document recommends that the African Union
further consider such a union’s feasibility. It also recommends giving
PAP, which started in 2004, the powers of a legislative organ.
Sources:
PAP Concludes Seventh Ordinary Session http://www.pan-africanparliament.org/DocumentsResources_DisplayDocument.aspx?Type=Docs&ID=285
PAP Considers Committee Reports http://www.pan-africanparliament.org/News.aspx?ID=229
(link works randomly)
‘United States of Africa’ in doubt http://www.sundaytimes.co.za/News/Article.aspx?id=463554
South Africa: AU Chair Attends Pan African Parliament http://allafrica.com/stories/200705070262.html
African Parliament blames west for environmental mess http://www.mg.co.za/articlepage.aspx?area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__africa/&articleid=308357
Global Division of Financial Responsibility
for Global Warming Impacts
Oxfam has called for a system to allocate costs of global warming
damage per country based on its percentage of greenhouse contribution. Poorer
countries are not included. They list the US with 44%, Japan with 13%, Germany
7%, and so forth. With China’s increasing role, the percentages would
be continually adjusted. China will release its first national plan to address
climate change just prior to the G8 Meeting, which it will attend in Germany.
Source:
Rich must pay bulk of climate change bill: Oxfam http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSL2835543520070529
United Nations Agreement to Protect
the World’s Forests Adopted
Although not a legally binding document, the agreement on international
forest policy and cooperation is an important instrument for sustainable forest
management. By setting international standards for forest management, the agreement
is expected to advance international cooperation on forest conservation, improve
forest products trade, and develop national policies that would reduce deforestation,
prevent forest degradation, and improve the living standard of all forest-dependent
peoples. The agreement was adopted at the United Nations Forum on Forests, following
15 years of negotiations and debates on whether a treaty or an agreement is
needed for improving the world’s forests management. A voluntary global
financing mechanism for forest management is supposed to be adopted by 2009.
Sources:
UN adopts new International Agreement to protect world’s forests http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22389&Cr=forests&Cr1=
New Agreement on Sustainable Management of World’s Forests Focus, As United
Nations Forum Opens Two-Week Session http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/envdev919.doc.htm
UNFF7 Documents http://www.un.org/esa/forests/session-documents.html
Technological Breakthroughs with Environmental
Security Implications
Biosensors Sniff out TNT and Possibly Other Dangers
Temple University School of Medicine Fels Institute researcher Prof. Danny Dhanasekaran
and colleagues have developed a new biosensor that uses a yeast strain genetically
engineered with mammalian (rat) olfactory signaling machinery, linked to the
expression of green fluorescent protein, to detect a chemical signature of TNT.
The technique should be extendable to spot other chemical agents, such as sarin.
Biosensor 2200R, developed by Mine Safety Appliances Inc. of Pittsburgh, is
a new biosensor able to determine the presence of a suspicious biological agent
such as anthrax or ricin. The response time is less than 5 minutes (compared
to about 45 minutes for the devices presently in use) and the unit has a very
high accuracy, with only a one in a million chance of producing a false reading.
Source:
Biosensor Sniffs Out Explosives
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070508185845.htm
Device makes quick work of suspected toxins http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_507097.html
Advanced Membrane Technology for Water Treatment to Counter Water Scarcity
The Advanced Membrane Technology for Water Treatment project conducted under
the auspices of the Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research
Organization (CSIRO) seeks to develop advanced membrane technology for efficient,
low energy processes to produce clean water from industrial and/or salt water
resources, thus reducing the financial and environmental costs of addressing
water scarcity problems. The research area consists of the following projects:
low energy desalination membranes; membrane technology for industrial water
reuse; and carbon nanotube (CNT) membranes.
Source:
Advanced membrane technology for water treatment research http://www.csiro.au/science/ps32l.html
New Generator Produces Hydrogen from Aluminum and Water
Prof. Jerry Woodall of Purdue University and associates have developed a new
technique that uses aluminum-gallium alloy pellets to generate hydrogen from
water, providing a novel source for the new "green fuel". Aluminum
reacts with the oxygen in water, releasing hydrogen and transforming into aluminum
oxide (alumina). The key to the new process is the use of gallium, which prevents
the formation of a skin over the aluminum that would stop the process––with
the gallium, all the aluminum in a container can contribute to the reaction.
The researchers envision that the alumina could be recycled back into aluminum
by electricity derived from nuclear plants. The advantage of this indirect hydrogen
fuel process is that aluminum is much more easily stored and transported than
hydrogen, so there are potential gains in producing the hydrogen at the point
of use in an “aluminum-fueled” engine. However, serious questions
come to mind about the environmental effects and the overall cost and energy
efficiency of producing and recycling the aluminum, and transporting it and
the alumina, and about driving range with a feasible load of metal. This complex
“non-rechargeable battery” will require much careful end-to-end
analysis in order to gain acceptance, but it is an interesting approach.
Source:
New process generates hydrogen from aluminum alloy to run engines, fuel cells
http://www.physorg.com/news98556080.html
Updates on Previously Identified Issues
UN Appoints Special Envoys for Climate Change
As part of his commitment to enhance the UN's action in addressing climate change,
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appointed three Special Envoys, former Norwegian
Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland, the President of the 56th Session of the
UN General Assembly Han Seung-soo, and former President of Chile Ricardo Lagos.
The Special Envoys will work with the Secretary-General, government leaders,
and key stakeholders from around the world to advance negotiations and develop
mitigation strategies to address climate change and its impacts. [See also UK
Initiates UN Security Council Debate on Climate Change and Security in
April, and New Energy and Climate Change Policies in March 2007 environmental
security reports.]
Sources:
Ban Ki-moon names 3 prominent Special Envoys on Climate Change
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22410&Cr=climate&Cr1=change
Secretary-General Appoints Three New Special Envoys on Climate Change
http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sga1061.doc.htm
U.N. appoints three envoys on climate change
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/environment/2007-05-01-un-climate_N.htm
Climate change must be tackled at the international political level, say UN
envoys
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22483&Cr=climate&Cr1=change
Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty Stalemate Continues
No progress was achieved by the two-week annual session for preparing the 2010
NPT Review Conference. After having its work delayed for six days due to Iran’s
disagreement with the agenda, the conference ended with disputes over the session’s
final statement. Iran and other Nonaligned Movement nations criticized the statement
as being too focused on compliance and not enough on the need for nuclear-weapon
states to move toward disarmament. [See also Review Conference of the Non-Proliferation
Treaty in May 2005, and Increasing Calls for Improved Management of
Nuclear Materials and Nonproliferation in January 2005 environmental security
reports.]
Meanwhile, eight more nations joined the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear
Terrorism. Led by Russia and the U.S., this global effort was initiated in 2006,
to improve security over nuclear materials and to deter nuclear smuggling. The
group now includes 31 nations. The next meeting is scheduled to be held in June,
in Kazakhstan.
Sources:
Preparatory Committee for the 2010 Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference
http://www.un.org/NPT2010/index.html
Ban Ki-moon urges NPT review meeting to address crisis on nuclear arms front
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22392&Cr=nuclear&Cr1=
Iran, NAM countries downgrade atom treaty text
http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSL1125982220070511
Israel, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka Join Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2007/may/84852.htm
Cape Verde, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Georgia, Montenegro, Netherlands
and Spain Countries Join U.S.-Russia-led Global Initiative To Combat Nuclear
Terrorism http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2007/may/84503.htm
Armenia, Cambodia, Macedonia and Romania Join U.S.-Russia-led Global Initiative
To Combat Nuclear Terrorism http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2007/may/84246.htm
Global Initiative To Combat Nuclear Terrorism--Japan Hosts Counterterrorism
Seminar http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2007/may/84247.htm
The Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism http://www.state.gov/t/isn/c18406.htm
Current Partner Nations to the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism
http://www.state.gov/t/isn/82787.htm
Stockholm Convention on POPs Adopts Evaluation but not Non-compliance
Mechanisms
The third meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the Stockholm
Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) occurred April 30-May 4,
2007, in Dakar, Senegal, with over 450 participants representing more than 180
governments and international and non-governmental organizations. Twenty-two
decisions were adopted, including: measures to reduce or eliminate releases
from wastes (integration with the Basel Convention for developing a framework
for environmentally sound waste disposal); guidelines on best available techniques
and draft guidance on best environmental practices; improving the reporting
system; evaluation of implementation effectiveness through the Global Monitoring
Programme (establishing a coordination group formed of three representatives
from each of the five UN regions); technical assistance; and non-compliance
(negotiations to continue and mechanisms to be considered for COP-4). COP-4
will be held May 4-8, 2009, in Geneva, Switzerland. [See also Call for Reinforcements
to Chemical Safety in September 2006, Stockholm Convention Updates
in November 2005, and other related items in previous environmental security
scanning reports.]
Sources:
Stockholm Convention COP-3 http://www.pops.int/documents/meetings/cop_3/meetingdocs/default.htm
Summary of the Third Meeting of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic
Pollutants
http://www.iisd.ca/vol15/enb15154e.html
Stockholm Convention http://www.pops.int
Climate Change
Mitigating Climate Change Effects
Climate Change 2007: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability, third report
of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), calls for quick
action to stabilize greenhouse gas emissions in order to avoid the worst climate
change impacts. It states that greenhouse gas emissions must start declining
by 2015 if the increase in global average temperature is to be capped at 2–2.4
degrees Celsius. The report points out that the more time passes, the costlier
it will be. It estimates that stabilizing emission levels at 445–535 parts
per million (ppm) would cost between 0.2% and 3% of world GDP by 2030 (about
0.12% per year); while after 2050, stabilizing emissions between 445–710
ppm would require a reduction of 5.5% in the world's GDP. This is consistent
with the Stern report and other estimates. The report highlights that multiple
strategies are already available for reducing global greenhouse gas emissions,
such as utilizing cost-effective policies and current and emerging technologies.
Just before the IPCC report was released, the World Wildlife Fund issued its
own report, Stop Climate Change: It Is Possible, which presented 15 actions
to reduce CO2 emissions. The World Resources Institute analyzed the impact of
climate change on the ecosystem and its services for humans and suggested actions
for ecosystem restoration in its report Restoring Nature's Capital: An Action
Agenda to Sustain Ecosystem Services. WRI president Jonathan Lash said we should
“urgently expand the climate debate beyond reducing greenhouse gases to
focus on how climate change is altering ecosystem services.”
Delegates at the latest OECD Council at Ministerial Level held in Paris, May
15-16, 2007 explored policy options to reduce human and economic costs of severe
climate change and will work with the International Energy Agency to that end.
New Climate Change Forecasts Show Conditions Worse than Forecasted
New research and models by the National Center for Atmospheric Research and
the University of Colorado's National Snow and Ice Data Center found that the
Arctic could be seasonally free of sea ice by 2020, 30 years sooner than predicted
by the IPCC report. In addition to all the consequences for the ecosystem and
the Nordic inhabitants, this might accelerate even more global warming, as reflection
of the sun’s heat and light will be strongly diminished.
An international team of researchers has found that the Southern Ocean’s
capacity to absorb man-made carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is weakening,
stating that this is the first time they have “convincing evidence that
a change in the uptake of CO2 by the oceans is linked to climate change.”
They didn’t expect that to happen until much later in the 21st century.
Japan's Meteorological Agency announced that the ocean around Japan has warmed
up by 0.7 to 1.6 degrees Celsius over the last century, far higher than the
world average of 0.5 degree Celsius.
Climate Change Refugees
Janos Bogardi, director of the UNU Institute for Environment and Human Security,
called for the UN to create a legal framework to address future environmental
refugees, while taking into account fears that by including environmental migrants
in the international legislation protecting refugees, “we are weakening
one of the strongest tools for protecting refugees.” Hence, the UN “should
find other means of helping environmental migrants.” He also emphasized
that environmental factors often lie at the root of more obvious causes of migration.
Christian Aid estimates that a billion people might be forced to migrate over
the next 50 years, mostly as a consequence of environmental conditions. The
vast majority will be from the world’s poorest countries, the Sahara belt,
south Asia, and the Middle East. Their report estimates that in 2007 there are
25 million displaced by conflict and human rights abuses, 25 million by natural
disasters, such as earthquakes, and 105 million by large development projects,
with 8.5 million now officially recognized as refugees. By 2050, it says, 250
million could be permanently displaced by climate change-related phenomena.
Bangladesh, with its 140 million people, is one of the most vulnerable places
to climate change. It is likely to face increasingly violent storms, saltwater
getting further into the country's rivers, erosion in the coastal areas, severe
droughts in the north, and possibly a fifth of the country vanishing under water,
if sea level rises by 3 feet by the end of the century. “One island here
has more people than all of the small island states put together,” said
Atiq Rahman, executive director of the Bangladesh Center for Advanced Studies.
Negotiations for a Post-Kyoto Strategy to Continue to be Difficult
No results were produced by the two-week meeting of the U.N. Framework Convention
on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Bonn, Germany, to negotiate a post-Kyoto
treaty and next steps to tackle climate change. This was supposed to be a preparatory
session for the world environment ministers’ conference to be held in
December in Bali, Indonesia, when it is hoped that formal negotiations on a
post-Kyoto treaty will be launched. Although the 1,800 delegates agreed on the
urgency of the situation and the need for adopting long-term, legally binding
emission reduction targets, no agreement was reached on new commitments or strategies.
The 15th session of the UN Commission on Sustainable Development’s negotiations
were hindered by the confrontation between the developed and developing world,
and by the U.S., which opposed any targets and timetables for greenhouse gas
reduction. The EU rejected a draft final document on the grounds that it was
too weak and failed to adequately address the issues of energy efficiency, climate,
air pollution, and industrial development.
The prospects are not very optimistic either for next month’s G8 summit
negotiations, since the U.S. and Canada seem to continue opposing the German
draft statement and position.
Australia's government is developing a carbon emissions reduction plan that
would recommend a trading scheme built on the six-nation Asia-Pacific Partnership
on Clean Development and Climate (which includes Australia, China, India, Japan,
South Korea, and the U.S.) The proposal is planned to be put forward at the
2007 Summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation to be held in Sydney, in
September.
The UNFCCC Secretariat Director considers the Kyoto Protocol’s Clean Development
Mechanism (CDM) successful so far, with some 645 CDM projects being registered
in 44 countries, covering a wide range of sectors. At the same time, he cautioned
that serious negotiations on a post-2012 regime would only be launched at the
Bali conference, and not concluded there, given experience with the Kyoto Protocol,
which took two years to negotiate and another two to ratify and bring into force.
Sources:
Climate Change 2007: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability http://www.ipcc.ch/SPM6avr07.pdf
Stopping climate change is possible http://www.panda.org/news_facts/newsroom/index.cfm?uNewsID=100480
Secretary-General Welcomes Report on Mitigation of Climate Change, Says Package
on Way Forward Must Be Launched At Bali Conference
http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/sgsm10976.doc.htm
9th Session of IPCC Working Group III and 26th Session of IPCC: 30 April - 4
May 2007 http://www.iisd.ca/climate/ipwg3
Experts Meet on UN Report but Time Running Out http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41638/story.htm
UN Climate Talks Down to Wire, EU and China Spar http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41708/story.htm
Tackling climate change. A bargain. Economist.com, May 4th 2007 http://www.economist.com/daily/news/displaystory.cfm?story_id=9135283&fsrc=nwl
China seen as a roadblock to U.N. climate report. Beijing wants the U.S. and
Europe to bear most of the blame and costs for controlling global warming.
By Alan Zarembo, Times Staff Writer, May 3, 2007
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/asection/la-sci-warming3may03,1,3027774,full.story?ctrack=2&cset=true
US Rejects 'High Cost' Global Warming Scenarios http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41726/story.htm
Restoring Nature's Capital: An Action Agenda to Sustain Ecosystem Services http://www.wri.org/biodiv/pubs_description.cfm?pid=4309
Restoring Nature’s Capital: An Action Agenda to Sustain Ecosystem Services––WWICS
session http://www.wilsoncenter.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=events.event&event_id=235464
(video)
Chair's summary of the OECD Council at Ministerial Level, Paris, 15-16 May 2007
- Innovation: Advancing the OECD Agenda for Growth and Equity
http://www.oecd.org/document/22/0,2340,en_2649_201185_38604566_1_1_1_1,00.html
UN Experts Near Deal on Climate After Disputes http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41284/story.htm
Global Warming to Devastate Indian Coast – Expert http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41512/story.htm
China Says Global Warming Threatens Development http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41506/story.htm
Symposium: Indigenous Peoples and Climate Change. Thursday and Friday, 12-13
April 2007
Environmental Change Institute, University of Oxford http://www.eci.ox.ac.uk/news/events/070412conference.php
Arctic Ice Retreating 30 Years Ahead of Projections http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/apr2007/2007-04-30-04.asp
Arctic sea ice decline: Faster than forecast (abstract) http://www.agu.org/pubs/crossref/2007.../2007GL029703.shtml
Arctic melt worse than predictions http://www.cnn.com/2007/TECH/science/05/02/arctic.ice/index.html
Rapid rise in global warming is forecast http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/science/article1805870.ece
Ocean Around Japan Warming Up Fast – Report http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41923/story.htm
U.N. Professor Says Climate Change Is Creating New Refugees Who Deserve U.N.
Protection http://www.enn.com/today.html?id=12788
Human tide: the real migration crisis http://www.christian-aid.org.uk/indepth/705caweekreport/index.htm
Climate change to force mass migration http://www.guardian.co.uk/international/story/0,,2078839,00.html
The first refugees of global warming. Bangladesh watches in horror as much of
the nation gives way to sea
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-0705010817may02,1,7033000.story?coll=chi-newsnationworld-hed&ctrack=1&cset=true
(free registration required)
Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies, 7-18 May 2007, Bonn, Germany http://unfccc.int/meetings/sb26/items/3919.php
UN meeting in Bonn moves world closer to action on climate change http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22595&Cr=climate&Cr1=change
Deadlock at climate talks mars Kyoto hopes
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L1840731.htm
Climate change official sees new willingness from developing countries to talk
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/05/18/europe/EU-GEN-Germany-Climate-Conference.php
UN Urges Climate Action; Nations Split on Tactics http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41763/story.htm
Diplomats Begin Work on Climate Accord http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/07/AR2007050700963.html
Suspicions Among Nations Hold Back Climate Pacts http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41843/story.htm
UN Climate Chief Says Time Short to Find 2012 Pact
http://www.planetark.com/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/41841/story.htm
EU rejects 'weak' UN paper on climate change http://euobserver.com/9/24053/?rk=1
(by subscription only)
Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) 115th session http://www.un.org/esa/sustdev/csd/policy.htm
U.S. Rejects G-8 Climate Proposal
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/25/AR2007052501952.html
Climate change conflict http://www.thestar.com/News/article/217831
(article available online for a limited time)
Regional carbon trade plan http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,21757380-30417,00.html
(article available for a limited time)
Australia demands "New Kyoto" in place of "Old" http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/SYD71858.htm
Confusion threatens to limit potential of key Kyoto Protocol mechanism –
UNFCCC Executive Secretary
http://unfccc.int/files/press/news_room/press_releases_and_advisories/application/pdf/070502_pressrel_carbon_expo.pdf
(alternative: UN official warns of confusion over key Kyoto Protocol mechanism
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=22425&Cr=climate&Cr1=change)
Proposed Global Early Warning System for Monitoring Pandemics
Scientists propose a global early warning system to monitor possible pandemic
outbreaks. A recent study led by Nathan Wolfe, professor of epidemiology at
the University of California, Los Angeles, revealed that the “emergence
of the major diseases of humanity is not a random process.” Understanding
the patterns between origins of major infectious diseases in temperate and tropical
countries and individuals exposed to wild or domestic animals might help prevent
eventual migration to humans, as well as forecast and avoid eventual pandemics.
Delegates to the 59th World Health Assembly also stressed the importance of
rapid, worldwide sharing of knowledge on diseases, since “in a globalized
world, health issues have an impact on the collective security of people around
the world.” [See also Global Pandemic Containment Efforts in
October 2006, Bird Flu Spreads Increasing Threats of a Human Pandemic
in February 2006 and other related environmental security reports.]
Sources:
Origins of major human infectious diseases. Nature 447, 279-283 (17 May 2007)
http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v447/n7142/full/nature05775.html#abs
(by subscription only)
Scientists: Early warning system for disease needed http://www.scidev.net/News/index.cfm?fuseaction=readNews&itemid=3623&language=1
Fifty-ninth World Health Assembly http://www.who.int/mediacentre/events/2006/wha59/en/index.html
Japanese Supreme Court Denies Chinese Wartime Claims
Japan’s Supreme Court ruled that Chinese victims of Japanese biological
warfare and other atrocities occurred before and during World War II are not
eligible for compensation. Two cases involving about 200 Chinese required compensation
and Japanese government apologies for biological weapons experiments, the firebombing
of a Chinese city and other atrocities happened in the 1930s and 1940s. The
majority of the plaintiffs were relatives of the victims. “These are unjust
rulings that ignore the human rights and personal suffering of the defendants.
[…] The Supreme Court has completely neglected its responsibility to uphold
justice.” Historians estimate that up to 250,000 people might have died
in Japan’s Unit 731 experiments that involved germ testing and vivisection.
No unit personnel ever faced prosecution and Japan argues that the cases brought
up happened before Japan’s ratification of relevant treaties. [See also
Discussions over World War II Japanese Warfare Program in China not Settled
Yet in July 2005, China: Japan to Pay $2.7 Million for War Gas Leak
in October 2003 and Effects of Poison Gas Used in WWII by Japan in
May 2003 environmental scanning reports.]
Sources:
Japan rules against war claims
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070510/ap_on_re_as/japan_china_germ_warfare_2
(article available for a limited time on the website).
U.S. to Study Sonar Impact on Marine Mammals
The U.S. government approved a budget to research the effects of military sonar
systems on whales and dolphins. Several scientists and environmental groups
claim that underwater sonar to detect submarines interferes with the ecolocation
system of whales and dolphins, sometimes causing mass strandings. The research
will be conducted din Hawaii and will include studying the effects of military
sonar systems on marine mammal hearing, as well as the development of electronic
systems to detect the presence of marine mammals in naval training areas. The
Hawaii research will provide an independent scientific view and reliable data
on the effects of sonars on marine mammals and hopefully will elucidate the
concerns. [See also UK Defence Ministry Highlights the Link between Environment
and Security in September 2006, The Debate over Use of Sonar by the
Navy Continues; Legal Settlement Approved in July 2006, Underwater
Sounds from Human Sources Endangering Marine Life in November 2005, and
other previous environmental security reports on the same issue.]
Sources:
Military R&D worth $72M http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070526/NEWS08/705260353/1018/NEWS
Navy Disappointed with Sonar Lawsuit http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,136479,00.html
Navy sued over sonar testing off Hawaii http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18721001/
Space-Based Services for Improving Emergency Response
The Health Early Warning System will improve warning and emergency response
in case of natural disasters and pandemics by using satellite communication.
HEWS consists of a communication network via satellite to survey and monitor
risk indicators. It is connecting end-user relieve agencies with command centers,
provides wide, real-time perspective of the events and knowledge related to
the threat, and helps with logistical support, thus improving the emergency
effort efficiency. HEWS is an open platform, widely implementable. Another European
initiative, Eurisy programme dedicated to Local and Regional Authorities, aims
to help end-user communities understand how space technology-based tools can
help them in some complex activities such as monitoring environment matters,
handling natural disaster, and e-Government. The Conference “Future Challenges
for Local and Regional Authorities: How can Space Technology help?” held
May 29-30 in Barcelona, is the first event of Eurisy’s 3-year programme.
The China National Space Administration joined on May 24, 2007, the International
Charter “Space and Major Disasters,” an international network of
international, private and government space agencies that aims to provide satellite
data free of charge in emergency situations to those affected by disasters anywhere
in the world. At the Pan African Parliament’s (PAP) Seventh Ordinary Session
held in May 2007, delegates recommended increased international cooperation
in scientific and technological research, including the use of space tools to
help decisionmaking related to fight against desertification and climate change.
Source:
Faster and better emergency response through satellite telecoms http://www.esa.int/esaTE/SEMZ00V681F_index_0.html
Bridging the Gap between Space and Local and Regional Users http://www.eurisy.org/
A Giant Leap For Space Activities In Europe http://www.spacemart.com/reports/A_Giant_Leap_For_Space_Activities_In_Europe_999.html
Chinese space agency joins the International Charter ‘Space and Major
Disasters’ http://www.esa.int/esaEO/SEMCG59RR1F_environment_0.html
PAP Considers Committee Reports http://www.pan-africanparliament.org/News.aspx?ID=229
Europe’s Space Policy becomes a reality today http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEM4UU8RR1F_Benefits_0.html
Nanotechnology Safety Issues
- European Guide to Green Masters Programs Launched. The Institute of Nanotechnology
has announced the official launch of the European Nanotechnology Masters Recognition
Scheme, for 10:30 a.m., 20 June 2007, at the Congress Center, Düsseldorf,
as part of EuroNanoforum 2007, The Scheme site, which can be visited at http://www.nano.org.uk/nanomasters/,
offers online access to descriptions of nanotechnology-related master's degree
programs throughout Europe.
Source: Institute of Nanotechnology Nano Masters Course Directory http://www.nano.org.uk/nanomasters/
Toxic Metals Carried into Cells by Nanoparticles. Scientists at the Swiss Federal
Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich and the Swiss Federal Laboratories for
Materials Testing have discovered that metal oxide nanoparticles had up to 8
times the toxicity of the same metals in salt forms when brought into contact
with lung epithelial cells. The explanation by one researcher is that "cell
membranes provide a selective barrier against ions, preventing the dissolved
metal salts from entering. Once a metal-containing nanoparticle has penetrated
a cell, however, metal ions can leach from the particle and generate ROS [reactive
oxygen species] in the cell interior". The degree of the toxicity is related
to the specific metal being introduced.
Sources:
Exposure of Engineered Nanoparticles to Human Lung Epithelial Cells: Influence
of Chemical Composition and Catalytic Activity on Oxidative Stress
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/esthag/asap/abs/es062629t.html
A nano Trojan horse http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2007/apr/science/lt_nano.html
New Report Links Nanotechnology and Green Engineering. A new report, Green
Nanotechnology: It's Easier Than You Think, from the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
of the Woodrow Wilson International Center, discusses links between nanotechnology
and environmentally friendly development and production. It also presents recommendations
for proactive federal policy measures to encourage such applications of nanotech.
Sources: Index to the report: http://www.nanotechproject.org/archive
Green Nanotechnology: It's Easier Than You Think http://www.nanotechproject.org/116/4262007-green-nanotechnology-its-easier-than-you-think
Nanotechnology Provides Green Path To Environmentally Sustainable Economy http://www.spacemart.com/reports/Nanotechnology_Provides_Green_Path_To_Environmentally_Sustainable_Economy_999.html
Reports Suggested for Review
U.S. Regulations Related to Climate Change
Global Climate Change and U.S. Law, published by the American Bar Association,
is a comprehensive overview of U.S. law as it relates to global climate change.
The book presents a scientific factual background on climate change; outlines
the international and national legal framework related to climate change; presents
emerging regional, state, and local actions, and a 50-state survey; issues of
concern to corporations (including disclosure, fiduciary duties, insurance,
and subsidies); and examines reduction programs such as voluntary efforts, emissions
trading, and carbon sequestration. The book will be continuously updated on
the American Bar Association's website (an update is already posted about the
Massachusetts vs. EPA case.)
Sources:
Global Climate Change and U.S. Law http://www.abanet.org/abastore/index.cfm?section=main&fm=Product.AddToCart&pid=5350156
Climate Change Having Major Effect on U.S. Law, ABA Book Finds http://www.arnoldporter.com/news_news.cfm?publication_id=1511
UK Initiates UN Security Council Debate on Climate Change and Security
Britain’s foreign secretary argued that future climate change might cause wars: “An unstable climate will exacerbate some of the core driv