Environ News

With an on-sale date set for August 24, the all-new Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe is set to debut at dealers with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starting under $20,000. Here Auto expert RJ de Vera shares his experience driving the CR-Z sport hybrid around LA and his conclusion is: “Green Can be FUN!”. Source: American Honda

General Motors is expanding the geographic footprint of the Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid, but the relatively small number of Volts planned to emerge from factories in the next two years will make them something of a collector’s item. The company has announced that Austin, Texas and New York City will be target markets, along with California, for the Volt when it launches later this year. Source: Greentech Media

A new wood pellet plant is set to bring additional jobs to Jasper County, SC.
US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has released a report which provides a roadmap on how America can meet the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2). All regions can contribute to meeting America’s long term energy needs. Secretary Vilsack commented: “Energy derived from woody biomass, switchgrass and other sources has enormous potential benefits for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, developing clean, home-grown energy, and providing economic opportunities for rural America. Markets for woody biomass can also bolster forest restoration activities on both public and private lands, improving the ecological health of our forests and reducing the impacts of global climate change.” Source: WSAV

The Gulf of Mexico oil spill has coated 3 miles of northern Florida’s coastline in what is the worst impact of the spill there so far. Source: Reuters