EPA Does Not Provide Oversight of Radon Testing Accuracy and Reliability

This Report (No. 09-P-0151) dated May 4, 2009 states that recent studies on radon – while not nationwide in scope – have identified problems with the accuracy of radon testing devices. Also, a recent New England study identified problems with the quality of laboratory analyses of radon testing. Nonetheless, a key 2009 EPA publication on the Agency’s Website continues to state that radon testing devices provide reliable measurements of indoor radon levels. In its 2009 A Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon, EPA states:

MYTH: Radon testing devices are not reliable and are difficult to find.
FACT: Reliable testing devices are available from qualified radon testers and companies.

However, EPA does not have data within the last 10 years to support that radon test kits or testers are reliable.

Potential Impacts of Climate Change on the United States

This report by the Congressional Budget Office (No. 3044) dated May 2009, discusses the potential changes in weather patterns, agriculture, coastal erosion, biodiversity, and changes in other aspects of the environment that may occur with rising global temperatures due to excessive greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

EnergySmart Schools

This no-cost Advanced Engergy Design Guide Webinar put on by the Department of Energy provides an overview of the Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for K-12 School Buildings, including recommendations based on climate zones to achieve 30% energy savings over baseline standard in both new and renovation building projects. The Webinar was presented live on April 16, 2009.

Pace Environmental Notes -- April 2009

Here is this month's Pace Environmental Notes.

International Trade and Competitiveness Issues in Climate Change Policy

This ABA teleconference takes place on April 28 between Noon and 2pm. The conference discusses how climate change policy is interrelated with trade and competitiveness issues, and what lies ahead on the state, national, and international levels.

Biofuel Policies and Programs

This Report by the Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor finds that traditional biofuels like corn-based ethanol and soy-based biodiesel serve a useful purpose. However, land constraints and economic considerations limit the extent to which traditional biofuels can replace petroleum-based fuels. Cellulosic ethanol appears to have significant environmental and energy advantages over corn-based ethanol, but questions remain about its economic viability and its potential land use and environmental impacts.

DOE Webcast April 22 for State and Local Officials: Renewable Energy on Contaminated Lands

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Technical Assistance Project (TAP) for state and local officials is offering a webcast on how to develop renewable energy projects on contaminated or old industrial sites, also known as "brownfields." The presentation will take place Wednesday, April 22, from 3:00 to 4:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, and is titled "Taking it from Brown to Green: Renewable Energy on Contaminated Lands."

In addition to learning how to identify brownfield sites where renewable energy projects are feasible, you will hear about case studies in the Southwest and learn about tools that support project development. Finally, you will be able to ask questions of the presenters and interact with them after the event on the TAP webcast Blog.