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This week, Focus Earth looks at many of the economic and political issues impacting the green movement. From executives of the Big Three auto manufacturers riding to bailout hearings in hybrids, to the latest news on Barack Obama's expected appointments, to an interview with First Lady Laura Bush, the Focus Earth team has the latest news and analysis on issues effecting the environment. Then, the team examines some pressing signs of climate change including record flooding in Venice, Italy, and threatened forests in Joshua Tree National Park. Finally, Focus Earth asks what happens to the environment when we die.
First, Chris Bury reports on a convoy of hybrids en route to Washington, piloted by the CEOs of the Big Three U.S. automakers. Their goal is to persuade congress to extend the financial bailout to the auto industry, a move that many hope could encourage green transportation development. Focus Earth is joined by Vijay Vaitheeswaran, energy and environment correspondent for the Economist, who offers his insight on the future of the auto industry.
Then, the Focus Earth takes a look at Barack Obama's latest cabinet appointments. With the inauguration drawing near and the cabinet positions filling up, the team analyzes what Obama's administration will mean for the environment.
Even with the United States between administrations, the rest of the world has not ceased its campaign to confront the problem of climate change. Lama Hassan reports on the recent Poznan Climate Conference, which was held in Poznan, Poland, and leader's efforts to form a plan to replace the Kyoto Protocol in 2012.
This week it became increasingly clear that something must be done to slow global warming. Flood waters in Venice, Italy, reached the highest point in 22 years, forcing tourists and citizens off the streets and into fortified buildings. Meanwhile, Brian Rooney reports from Joshua Tree National Park where climate change is threatening the unique forests that give the desert park its name.
Protecting the national parks, Bob Woodruff discovers, is a top priority of First Lady Laura Bush. During an interview she explains he efforts to green the White House and to save national parks around the country.
Finally, Focus Earth asks what happens to the environment when we die. Taking a close look at the impact of funerals, John Berman finds several eco-alternatives and has tips to make any funeral a bit greener.
Checkout the Planet Green Schedule to see these stories and more on Focus Earth.
Don't miss Focus on Focus Earth: An Interview with Laura Bush and Focus on Focus Earth: Flooding in Venice.
Read more about global warming and climate change:
Unite to Combat Climate Change Through Online Bidding
Eat Locally and Ease Climate Change
Global Warming: Still Happening
Climate Change Will Cost U.S. States Billions of Dollars
Any Nation That Wants to Combat Climate Change Has an Ally in the US: President-Elect Obama
Obama v. Bush: Climate Change Reversals and a National Energy Council (Video Roundup)
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