Corn ethanol is no better fuel than gasoline, and it may even be worse for air quality, according to a new University of Minnesota study.
The study, released Monday, is the first one to estimate the economic costs to human health and well-being from three different fuels -- gasoline, corn-based ethanol and cellulosic (plant-based) ethanol -- its authors say.
Scientists and economists looked at life-cycle emissions of growing, harvesting, producing and burning different fuels, and concluded that ethanol made from switchgrass and other plant materials is far better than either corn ethanol or gasoline.
"Our study shows that if we're really going to make choices in the best interest of the public, we need to look not only at what's cheapest to produce, but what are the costs to the public in terms of environmental and health effects," said Jason Hill, research associate in applied economics and a resident fellow at the U's Institute on the Environment.
Ethanol is a $6 billion industry in Minnesota, according to state estimates. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture calculated that the 17 ethanol plants in the state produced 670 million gallons of ethanol in 2007 and provided 26,000 "direct impact" jobs.
The university's study will be published in this week's issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and was posted online on Monday afternoon at the PNAS site.
No love from ethanol backers
Ethanol advocates said they haven't seen the study and will need time to understand how the conclusions were reached.
"I'm stifling a yawn," said Mark Hamerlinck, communications director for the Minnesota Corn Growers Association. "It would be news if the university had anything positive to say about corn ethanol. It's how they make a living over there."
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Wednesday, February 4, 2009
National Safe Boating Council Presents Sperry Top-Sider® with 50th Anniversary Golden Burgee for Company's Support of Boating Community
The company who invented the first boat shoe, Sperry Top-Sider®, has been a proud member of the boating community for almost 75 years. And for a half century, the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) has worked tirelessly to educate boaters on safe, fun ways to enjoy the water.
Today, both organizations join together in recognition of the common mission of safe boating, as the NSBC honors Sperry Top-Sider with its prestigious 50th Anniversary Golden Burgee.
"Our work at NSBC would be impossible if not for the generous, continued support of true boating advocates like Sperry Top-Sider," said Virgil Chambers, executive director. "Their commitment allows us to focus on our important work of educating the public on safe boating habits."
Since inventing its famous siped outsole that provides sure footing and tracking on slick, wet surfaces, Sperry Top-Sider has played a natural role in safe and fun boating. The company's formal support of the NSBC allows for that mission to touch thousands each and every year through the organization's many programs.
"We're proud to be a part of the NSBC's effort, and are honored by this recognition," said Sperry Top-Sider President Craig Reingold. "Each day spent by the water is a gift and our work with NSBC is one illustration of our commitment to helping more people enjoy the freedom and exhilaration of life in, on and around the sea."
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Today, both organizations join together in recognition of the common mission of safe boating, as the NSBC honors Sperry Top-Sider with its prestigious 50th Anniversary Golden Burgee.
"Our work at NSBC would be impossible if not for the generous, continued support of true boating advocates like Sperry Top-Sider," said Virgil Chambers, executive director. "Their commitment allows us to focus on our important work of educating the public on safe boating habits."
Since inventing its famous siped outsole that provides sure footing and tracking on slick, wet surfaces, Sperry Top-Sider has played a natural role in safe and fun boating. The company's formal support of the NSBC allows for that mission to touch thousands each and every year through the organization's many programs.
"We're proud to be a part of the NSBC's effort, and are honored by this recognition," said Sperry Top-Sider President Craig Reingold. "Each day spent by the water is a gift and our work with NSBC is one illustration of our commitment to helping more people enjoy the freedom and exhilaration of life in, on and around the sea."
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Vendors hope for rising tide at Rochester Boat Show
As local boat retailers prepare their displays for the 2009 Rochester Boat Show, many have their fingers crossed that the sullen economy won't keep the port-out-starboard-home crowd from showing up.
Long thought of as the ultimate discretionary purchase, boats have historically been a strong indicator of how the economy is doing.
"There are lots of people with stock portfolios down ... and if you just lost a third of your savings, you're probably not going to go and buy a boat," said Alexei Alexandrov, assistant professor of economics at the University of Rochester's Simon School of Business.
Reports from other boat shows have been mixed. The National Marine Manufacturers Association said attendance figures at its first five boat shows this year were all down from last year, with declines of as much as 49 percent at the New York National Boat Show in New York City.
But the association was encouraged by the larger portion of serious buyers who attended the shows, and local vendors remain optimistic about the prospects for this year's Rochester Boat Show, pointing to the resiliency of the region when compared with much of the rest of the country.
Craig Bryce, owner of Bryce Marine in Greece, said his business had a better year in 2008 than 2007, despite rising fuel prices and a struggling economy. He also thought this year's boat show could have a good turnout because of the harsh winter.
"Usually when we have the cold, hard winters, it's a pretty good turnout," said Bryce, who has been attending the show for 25 years. "People want to get a fix on summer."
more
Long thought of as the ultimate discretionary purchase, boats have historically been a strong indicator of how the economy is doing.
"There are lots of people with stock portfolios down ... and if you just lost a third of your savings, you're probably not going to go and buy a boat," said Alexei Alexandrov, assistant professor of economics at the University of Rochester's Simon School of Business.
Reports from other boat shows have been mixed. The National Marine Manufacturers Association said attendance figures at its first five boat shows this year were all down from last year, with declines of as much as 49 percent at the New York National Boat Show in New York City.
But the association was encouraged by the larger portion of serious buyers who attended the shows, and local vendors remain optimistic about the prospects for this year's Rochester Boat Show, pointing to the resiliency of the region when compared with much of the rest of the country.
Craig Bryce, owner of Bryce Marine in Greece, said his business had a better year in 2008 than 2007, despite rising fuel prices and a struggling economy. He also thought this year's boat show could have a good turnout because of the harsh winter.
"Usually when we have the cold, hard winters, it's a pretty good turnout," said Bryce, who has been attending the show for 25 years. "People want to get a fix on summer."
more
Boating Safety Course
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s “About Boating Safely” will be offered from 6:30 to 9:00 PM Mondays, February 23 – March 23, at Christ The King Church, 1600 N. Genesee Street, Delafield.
This is a comprehensive course designed for the beginning or experienced boater. Completion of this course will satisfy the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources mandatory boating education requirement. Topics covered include: Know your boat, Before you get underway, Navigating waterways, Operating your boat or personal watercraft safely, The legal requirements, Boating emergencies, Enjoying water sports with your boat and Knot tying.
The registration fee is $40. Pre-registration is required. Family discounts are available. This course includes the latest edition of the textbook with study guide, handouts and use of line for practicing knot tying.
Call Paul Neumiller, (262) 392-8117, to register or for additional information.
from
This is a comprehensive course designed for the beginning or experienced boater. Completion of this course will satisfy the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources mandatory boating education requirement. Topics covered include: Know your boat, Before you get underway, Navigating waterways, Operating your boat or personal watercraft safely, The legal requirements, Boating emergencies, Enjoying water sports with your boat and Knot tying.
The registration fee is $40. Pre-registration is required. Family discounts are available. This course includes the latest edition of the textbook with study guide, handouts and use of line for practicing knot tying.
Call Paul Neumiller, (262) 392-8117, to register or for additional information.
from
Governor to relinquish state protection of wetlands
Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm plans to announce significant cuts in the state protection of wetlands as part of her budget-cutting plan according to the Associated Press.
In tonight's State of the State address, she'll announce a plan to return wetland permit decisions to the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
“We believe this is an ill-conceived plan that jeopardizes not only Michigan’s natural resources but also economic redevelopment in the state,” said Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council policy specialist Jennifer McKay.
Michigan enacted The Wetlands Protection Act in 1979. Michigan and New Jersey are the only states to administer the federal Section 404 wetlands protection program.
“Wetlands regulation is something the federal government has the resources and capability to handle so we can continue to protect these valuable resources," Granholm spokeswoman Liz Boyd said.
McKay disagreed. She said the ecological and economic future of Michigan is dependent upon maintaining the wetlands protection program.
“The state is actually able to provide significant benefits through improved resource protection and increased program efficiency,” she said. “Michigan has lost approximately 50 percent of its wetland resources since European settlement. The remaining wetlands provide untold functions and values and are ecologically indispensable.”
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In tonight's State of the State address, she'll announce a plan to return wetland permit decisions to the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
“We believe this is an ill-conceived plan that jeopardizes not only Michigan’s natural resources but also economic redevelopment in the state,” said Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council policy specialist Jennifer McKay.
Michigan enacted The Wetlands Protection Act in 1979. Michigan and New Jersey are the only states to administer the federal Section 404 wetlands protection program.
“Wetlands regulation is something the federal government has the resources and capability to handle so we can continue to protect these valuable resources," Granholm spokeswoman Liz Boyd said.
McKay disagreed. She said the ecological and economic future of Michigan is dependent upon maintaining the wetlands protection program.
“The state is actually able to provide significant benefits through improved resource protection and increased program efficiency,” she said. “Michigan has lost approximately 50 percent of its wetland resources since European settlement. The remaining wetlands provide untold functions and values and are ecologically indispensable.”
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State tax credits OK'd for 10 firms to open or grow
The Michigan Economic Growth Authority approved state tax credits Tuesday for 10 companies to open or expand in Michigan and is backing four brownfield-redevelopment projects.
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The best known are for starting two movie-related companies in Detroit and Pontiac.
The other projects, with the number of jobs each company will directly add, are:
• Great Lakes Towers LLC. Start-up wind turbine tower manufacturer in Monroe; 152 jobs.
• W Industries. Expansion of metal fabrication company in Detroit; 501 jobs.
• Models & Tools. Troy-based aerospace tooling company plans to build a facility in Shelby Township; 72 jobs.
• Tribal Manufacturing Inc. Start-up builds brass-machined plumbing fittings in Marshall; 193 jobs.
• Atwell-Hicks LLC. The land-development consulting firm for wind power is to expand in Ann Arbor area, creating 131 jobs.
• Greenblendz. Start-up manufacturer of commercial cleaning agents in Auburn Hills; 47 jobs.
• Maverick Industries LLC. The manufacturer of plastic-injection molded components is to buy a plant in Blackman Township in Jackson County; 90 jobs.
• Stardock Systems Inc. The software developer seeks to expand in Plymouth Township to develop a new PC game; 53 jobs.
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Building Strength and Muscle without Illegal Substances
How to View Your Credit Report and Scores for Free
Checking Your Credit Could Increase Your Score
Advertising provided by:
ARALifestyle.com
The best known are for starting two movie-related companies in Detroit and Pontiac.
The other projects, with the number of jobs each company will directly add, are:
• Great Lakes Towers LLC. Start-up wind turbine tower manufacturer in Monroe; 152 jobs.
• W Industries. Expansion of metal fabrication company in Detroit; 501 jobs.
• Models & Tools. Troy-based aerospace tooling company plans to build a facility in Shelby Township; 72 jobs.
• Tribal Manufacturing Inc. Start-up builds brass-machined plumbing fittings in Marshall; 193 jobs.
• Atwell-Hicks LLC. The land-development consulting firm for wind power is to expand in Ann Arbor area, creating 131 jobs.
• Greenblendz. Start-up manufacturer of commercial cleaning agents in Auburn Hills; 47 jobs.
• Maverick Industries LLC. The manufacturer of plastic-injection molded components is to buy a plant in Blackman Township in Jackson County; 90 jobs.
• Stardock Systems Inc. The software developer seeks to expand in Plymouth Township to develop a new PC game; 53 jobs.
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Great Lakes Bay Region prominent in Granholm's speech
Renewable energy jobs could power the Great Lakes Bay Region in an otherwise dismal economy, Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm said in her seventh State of the State speech.
Alternative energy and the region played a prominent role in the Democratic governor's State of the State address Tuesday before the Legislature, where she outlined a back-to-the-basics approach to government to handle cuts that could reach $1.6 billion during the worst economic storm in decades.
Granholm noted Hemlock Semiconductor Corp.'s up to $1 billion expansion in Thomas Township, new wind turbines in the Thumb and alternative energy companies cropping up across Michigan are an engine of new jobs.
"If Michigan steps up as a leader in investing and encouraging and inventing those types of manufacturing jobs, there's a lot of hope for a state that's in a lot of distress right now," said Mary Lou Benecke, Dow Corning Corp. director of government affairs and community relations.
"That's our hope for the new middle class," said Veronica Horn, executive vice president of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce.
Delta College chemical operator graduate Tyler Sutton, 45, of Bay City, might embody that future. He lost his retail job, retrained under the state No Worker Left Behind Act and landed a job with Dow Corning. Granholm pointed him out in the gallery during her speech.
"We're hiring a lot of people from that program," Benecke said.
Angela R. Seeley, 24, of Shepherd, president of the Saginaw Valley State University Student Association, said the state must do more to make itself attractive amid 10.6 percent unemployment, highest in the nation.
"A lot of people do say that they want to move out of Michigan," Seeley said. "The thing is ... making Michigan a place where people want to come."
A renewable future?
The governor set a goal of reducing fossil fuel consumption to generate electricity by 45 percent in 2020 -- a measure praised and criticized by lawmakers who embraced green jobs but saw a threat to proposed coal-fired plants.
more
Alternative energy and the region played a prominent role in the Democratic governor's State of the State address Tuesday before the Legislature, where she outlined a back-to-the-basics approach to government to handle cuts that could reach $1.6 billion during the worst economic storm in decades.
Granholm noted Hemlock Semiconductor Corp.'s up to $1 billion expansion in Thomas Township, new wind turbines in the Thumb and alternative energy companies cropping up across Michigan are an engine of new jobs.
"If Michigan steps up as a leader in investing and encouraging and inventing those types of manufacturing jobs, there's a lot of hope for a state that's in a lot of distress right now," said Mary Lou Benecke, Dow Corning Corp. director of government affairs and community relations.
"That's our hope for the new middle class," said Veronica Horn, executive vice president of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce.
Delta College chemical operator graduate Tyler Sutton, 45, of Bay City, might embody that future. He lost his retail job, retrained under the state No Worker Left Behind Act and landed a job with Dow Corning. Granholm pointed him out in the gallery during her speech.
"We're hiring a lot of people from that program," Benecke said.
Angela R. Seeley, 24, of Shepherd, president of the Saginaw Valley State University Student Association, said the state must do more to make itself attractive amid 10.6 percent unemployment, highest in the nation.
"A lot of people do say that they want to move out of Michigan," Seeley said. "The thing is ... making Michigan a place where people want to come."
A renewable future?
The governor set a goal of reducing fossil fuel consumption to generate electricity by 45 percent in 2020 -- a measure praised and criticized by lawmakers who embraced green jobs but saw a threat to proposed coal-fired plants.
more
Michigan Funds Wind-Power Companies
Two wind sector firms are among 10 Michigan businesses receiving support from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
Governor Jennifer Granholm announced Wednesday that, based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the Michigan Economic Growth Authority had approved state tax credits to win the projects over competing national and international sites. Combined, the 14 projects are expected to create and retain 8,912 jobs and generate over $330 million in new investment in the state.
“Despite these challenging economic times, our aggressive economic strategy is producing results for communities across Michigan, and we will continue to go anywhere and do anything to bring new jobs to our state,” said Granholm.
The companies include Great Lakes Towers, a start-up wind turbine tower manufacturing company planning to spend $19 million to locate its first manufacturing plant in Monroe. The company expects to produce over 500 wind towers annually.
more
Governor Jennifer Granholm announced Wednesday that, based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the Michigan Economic Growth Authority had approved state tax credits to win the projects over competing national and international sites. Combined, the 14 projects are expected to create and retain 8,912 jobs and generate over $330 million in new investment in the state.
“Despite these challenging economic times, our aggressive economic strategy is producing results for communities across Michigan, and we will continue to go anywhere and do anything to bring new jobs to our state,” said Granholm.
The companies include Great Lakes Towers, a start-up wind turbine tower manufacturing company planning to spend $19 million to locate its first manufacturing plant in Monroe. The company expects to produce over 500 wind towers annually.
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Paper firm exec to head UW-based bioenergy initiative
A Wisconsin paper company researcher has been chosen to head the Wisconsin Bioenergy Initiative (WBI), a public-private partnership formed to make the state a leader in developing clean, renewable energy.
Troy Runge, research director at Kimberly-Clark Corp., was announced as the director of WBI on Tuesday.
The U.S. Department of Energy selected UW-Madison in 2008 as the site of the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, so the WBI is expected to be a catalyst in getting public and private ideas to move forward on clean energy.
The WBI is based in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at UW-Madison.
"Bioenergy offers the potential for new jobs in life sciences, manufacturing, technology, forestry and agriculture," said Dean Molly Jahn.
Runge will assume leadership of the WBI on May 1. He earned his bachelor's degree from UW-Stevens Point and a master's and Ph.D. from the Institute of Paper Science and Technology at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
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Troy Runge, research director at Kimberly-Clark Corp., was announced as the director of WBI on Tuesday.
The U.S. Department of Energy selected UW-Madison in 2008 as the site of the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, so the WBI is expected to be a catalyst in getting public and private ideas to move forward on clean energy.
The WBI is based in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at UW-Madison.
"Bioenergy offers the potential for new jobs in life sciences, manufacturing, technology, forestry and agriculture," said Dean Molly Jahn.
Runge will assume leadership of the WBI on May 1. He earned his bachelor's degree from UW-Stevens Point and a master's and Ph.D. from the Institute of Paper Science and Technology at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
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