By Cindy Tickle •
October 7, 2009
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce promotes itself as the “voice of business” by representing business ideas and interests in Washington. Really? If this is true, then why are so many businesses leaving the Chamber? So far, high profile utility companies such as
Exelon, Pacific Gas & Electric and PNM Resources have left the business association. Apple recently sent a letter to the Chamber’s CEO, Tom Donahue, resigning their membership effective immediately. It appears the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is doing an inadequate job of representing current business interests. So what is all the defections and hoopla about? Climate Change…
By Adam Williams •
February 28, 2009
A bill introduced by assemblyman Wesley Chesbro (D-Arcata) aims to reduce waste, litter, and greenhouse gases and create thousands of green jobs. The California Product Stewardship Act, AB 283, also would tackle the front end of product life cycles by incentivizing producers to design products and packaging that are less toxic, more durable, reusable, recyclable and/or biodegradable.
Chesbro, the chair of the Assembly’s Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee, says:
By Ben Robinson •
December 1, 2008
Governments will meet in Copenhagen next year to begin the long process of formulating the next Kyoto protocol. But how will we make sure that countries abide by their promises?
One idea being explored is an international body similar to the international Court of Justice in The Hague. The idea being put forward in the Telegraph by Stephen Hockman QC, a former chairman of the Bar Council, is that a legal body should be set up to be the supreme authority on issues relating to environmental damage and climate change.
An important role which he foresees this body fulfilling is the influence of public opinion. He is quoted as saying:
“If there are bodies around that can give definitive legal rulings that are accepted as fair and reasonable that has its own impact on public opinion.”
Although the court would be able to hand down sanctions or fines, it is also hoped that it would be able to shame or embarrass countries or companies into taking the appropriate action..
