Monday, July 24, 2006

In California, it's so hot that...

Global Warming goes on trial.

California and other states have brought a lawsuit against the Federal Government about its failure to reduce greenhouse gas emission. The US Supreme Court normally defers to the administrative agencies to implement laws, but has decided to hear this case next term. The reason: in this case such deference is outweighed by the administration's glaring dereliction of duty.

The Clean Air Act of 1970 charges the government with regulating substances that "may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health or welfare," and it specifically includes those that might affect the "weather" or "climate."

Bush promised six years ago to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions, but so far all he's done is call for more studies. The Court's decision to hear the lawsuit will get some clarity of language, and perhaps shame Congress into real action.

In the meantime, it's so hot in California that...

7 comments:

Yoga Korunta said...

Didn't Bush call for voluntary reduction of greenhouse gas emissions?

robin andrea said...

I am really surprised that the Roberts court agreed to hear this. He is so pro-business and pro-Bush. It'll be interesting to hear the arguments. I'm really glad that California is suing though. Very inportant.

DivaJood said...

Yoga, I'm not sure Bush can say emissions.

Glenda, I do hold my breath - but here in California it has gotten much better, because we have some very strict requirements. Years ago, the air would turn brown in July. Little brown clouds would hover near the street.

Robin, I know - it is shocking that they'll hear it. But we'll see what happens. We may not have a planet by next term.

Tina said...

Hubby and I began our lease on our hybrid SUV last June. And after watching the Oprah show about global warming (with guest Leo DiCaprio) we went to Costco's and bought compact fluorescent lightbulbs to replace at least 5 of the most used lights in our home (per the global warming expert's instructions). We actually replaced 10 of the most used lights in our home with them, and this Christmas, in addition to giving out "wanted" gifts, Hubby and I are giving compact fluorescent lightbulbs to every household we exchange gifts with. We know that it is difficult to change your ride, but if the lightbulbs are in your possession, chances are you'll use them. It is the least we can do for our BabyGirl who will inherit our planet some day.... God knows those asshats in power/ corporate whores could care less.

DivaJood said...

Tina, when my lease on my Mazda expired in February, I bought myself a Honda Civic Hybrid. If I were a new mom, I would have gotten a Hybrid SUV, but as a grandma, I went with the Civic. I get between 36 - 40 MPG in the city; I get between 50 and 75 MPG freeway. And I got the compact fluorescent bulbs for my bathroom. We tend to think that our own impact isn't that great, but it is, and it does mount up. Even things like buying organic produce from local farms helps.

Unknown said...

I wish I could afford a new car but at least my Nissan Sentra is about as green as you can get w/out a hybrid. Plus I hardly ever drive - I've got everything I need right here in the 'hood.


It is TOO freakin' hot, DivaJood. I think I got heatstroke on Monday, and my dog was suffering so I caved and put my AC window unit in the bedroom. It's really small so I don't feel *too* guilty. I so wanted to go w/out this summer though. Damn.

DivaJood said...

Excessive heat is dangerous as can be, Helen. Keep Phoebe cool, give her enough water, and use the AC. I don't have it. Didn't feel too well this AM, wanted to stay home but the office is cool, and home is not. Guess where I am?