Ron Edmonds/AP
READ MORE ABOUT:
This week in Washington, President Barack Obama argued that reviving the economy and developing green technology go hand-in-hand and the EPA announced it would begin reviewing mining permits. In North Dakota, what may be the worst flooding the region has seen in over 100 years sent residents into emergency action. The 30th anniversary of the Three Mile Island disaster and the 20th anniversary of the Exxon Valdez accident both passed. Bob Woodruff and the Focus Earth team have the latest coverage of these events and more.
First, during an address to the nation given this week, Barack Obama advocated the development of green technology. He argued that reviving the economy and saving the planet are linked and that solutions can be found that address both problems. Andrew Revkin gives an analysis of the country's energy, clean tech, and economic future.
Then, Focus Earth looks at an announcement from the Environment Protection Agency. This week, the EPA announced that it would begin the permit review process for mountain-top removal mining operations around the country. The review, they indicated, could end the practice which may be harming water supplies.
In North Dakota, residents scrambled to hold back flood waters. Forecasters predicted that flooding over the weekend could be the worst the region has seen in over 100 years.
Meanwhile, the anniversaries of two infamous eco-disasters were recognized this week. First, the 30th anniversary of the Three Mile Island disaster, during which a nuclear power plant nearly reached meltdown stage. Though an all-out crisis was averted, the incident raised questions about the safety of nuclear power that many feel have yet to be answered. This week also marked the 20th anniversary of the Exxon Valdez accident. Even though the crashed tanker spilled oil into the waters off the coast of Alaska two decades ago, the environment is still struggling to recover.
Then, Lisa Fletcher reports from California where the preservation of a species of fish is preventing farmers in drought-plagued regions from getting access to water resources. The state is fighting to find a solution that saves the endangered species and also allows the thirsty crops to get the water they need.
Elsewhere in California, Bob Woodruff investigates the state's innovative clean tech industry. Using the sun and wind, engineers and entrepreneurs are reshaping the state's, and even the country's, energy habits.
Finally, Focus Earth takes a look at a strange group of green vandals. Guerilla gardeners descended upon abandoned plots of land at night. Armed with shovels and seeds, they transform the urban landscape into a new green space.
Checkout the Planet Green Schedule to see these stories and more on Focus Earth.
Don't miss Focus on Focus Earth: California Drought and Focus on Focus Earth: Green Tech Revolution.
Read more about green technology:
The Environment is Already in Your Extended Network
DIY Solar Lighting Systems for Developing Nations?
Green Glossary: E-Book
Twitter This: Something Green
